#kuai liang angst

[restinslices]

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Can I request a scenario where the lin kuei brothers, after rescuing the reader from an enemy who was torturing the reader, react to the hijacked!reader(idk, if you read/watched the hunger games especially mockingjay, if you didn't then hijacking in hunger games is a form brainwashing involving the venom of tracker-jackers(mutated wasps whose venom can cause hallucinations and can painfully kill a person) to alter the memories of a person in a negative manner), who reacts violently towards them and bring afraid of them, calling them a monster and verbally berating them.

I haven’t seen those movies in years but I watched some videos and looked at the wiki so I hope I got it right! I also added a Drabble for everyone as a “my bad” cause I took so long.

Also it is 5:09pm. The danger time (look at previous post. Weather shit) is until 7pm. I’m hoping we stay fine but bitch it’s raining and I hear thunder and saw lightning. Send help😭

Bitch I’m proof reading and my lights flickered-

Anger is much easier and better to feel than sadness or grief, so he forces himself to feel that instead 

The second he realizes that you've been taken by enemies, he's in a rage 

He's visibly more angry and harsh towards everyone 

He hardly sleeps or lets himself relax because that means he's not looking for you 

Someone could take a break to sit and he's asking why they aren't doing anything to help 

Once you're found he's relieved and wants to see you immediately 

All that stress slips from his shoulders when he sees that you're alive and safe 

That stress is immediately dumped back on his shoulders when instead of pulling him into a hug, you run at him and wrap your hands around his throat 

As you can imagine, he has no problem pushing you off, but he's thrown so off guard because why would he ever expect you to attack him?

You don't come to your senses and his confusion rises when you attack him again by jumping on him and trying to strangle him again 

If you weren't trying to murder him, he'd be impressed with how you hang on despite how many times he's hit you 

Having to knock you out takes a lot out of him mentally. I mean, come on y'all. You were missing for so long and instead of hugging and loving each other when you finally saw each other, you attacked him like a wild animal and he actually had to defend himself 

When he's told what Hijacking is, all that anger comes back 

Some sick fuck took you from him, tortured you in various ways and managed to change your memories to something negative. How could he not be angry? They destroyed you with such precision. It was sick. 

Bi-Han is advised not to see you again. Anyone could guess that he wouldn't listen 

He had hope that maybe you just needed rest, but that didn't seem to work 

You forgot you were strapped down and tried to run at him again. You fussed with your straps in an attempt to get free and yelled in frustration 

Bi-Han doesn't know what to say. In an attempt to comfort you, he says “we'll fix you”

“There's always something wrong with me, isn't there?” You sneered with resentment. 

He kept talking to you and it seemed like no memory was left safe. Every single memory was tainted. The image of him was tainted. Why? Why did this have to happen to someone as kind as you? Why not to him? Or, as dick head-ish it sounded, a random Lin Kuei member?

All his efforts go to finding a way to reverse it. And I can see him being angry at Liu Kang because he can't reverse it. It fuels a resentment he already holds for him

“Grandmaster, I have been instructed to not let you in this room” a Lin Kuei member said in his best stern voice. Bi-Han didn't have time for this. He had just been informed that somehow Liu Kang couldn't save you, which made absolutely no sense to him. Liu Kang, this powerful god that created the universe itself couldn't fix this one person in the universe? Someone who deserved to be saved the most out of everyone?

“Your Grandmaster didn't give you this order, did I?”. The Lin Kuei swallowed hard and tried to stammer something out, but Bi-Han pushed him out the way and went inside the formally blocked room. 

You looked over at him, still with hate in your eyes. Your brows were low, your mouth in a deep frown, your arms and legs strapped to the bed. Your face was less bruised than it was when you first arrived, so he guessed he was thankful for that. 

“You look like shit” you said. 

“I've been worried about you” he answered honestly.

“Bullshit. You lie. You always lie”

“Who told you that?” he stepped closer to you although he knew he shouldn't. “Our enemies made you think this. They lied to you. They tortured you because they knew it'd hurt me. Because I love you”. He wasn't sure he's loved anyone as much as he loves you. But you wouldn't believe him. You kept saying he was lying and you had no idea how much it killed him to see you, but not have you. 

You stared at him blankly while thinking. You smirked at him and motioned for him to come even closer. He didn't though. The various wounds he had kept him from keeping hope of you changing. 

“Do you think your father let out a sigh of relief when he realized he was dying and getting away from you? Your mother as well? Being around you is the worst torture imaginable and I can't wait until I'm set free too”. 

Kuai Liang vows that he'll find and bring you back home no matter what 

He's also uneasy and on edge the entire time 

No stone is left unturned. He's checking every possible area and is suspicious of everyone 

He knows you'll have some sort of trauma, so when you're found, he tries to give you space 

Just enough time for doctors to look you over 

When he visits you the last thing he expects is for you to do is scream and try to get away from him 

He tries to get closer to you and comfort you but you keep screaming and accusing him of trying to hurt you 

He's confused. He would never do such a thing to you. He hardly even play fought with you because he was so worried about him accidentally hurting you 

You keep clinging to the doctors and yelling at him to stay away 

He just doesn't understand how something like this can happen. He keeps trying to comfort you but you're terrified of him

He has to be dragged out because he doesn't wanna leave at all 

When he's told what's happened to you he's confused how this is even possible and he wonders if he can ever get you back 

It's not necessarily just “I want my partner back”. It's also “they didn't deserve to have their light taken away”

You stay terrified of him so he tries to stay away from you 

He checks in when you're sleep and he peeks at you when you're not paying attention 

A two way mirror is a way to watch you as well 

Honestly he'd rather have you angry at him than afraid of him

You look so broken and shaken and it's killing him 

The same way he vowed to find you is the same way he vows to save you 

Meanwhile he has other people talk to you for him. He's trying to see if maybe someone else can make you realize that he's not some monster that you've been brainwashed to believe 

It doesn't seem to work, but he keeps trying. He refuses to give up on you. 

Kuai Liang was warned that this could possibly be a bad idea, but he didn't care. What was he supposed to do? Not try? Just let you sit and rot? No. Maybe he didn't have any magical abilities that could cure you, but he could still try. 

He watched through the 2 way mirror as Tomas approached you. You were a lot nicer to him and more comfortable around him. As bad as it sounded, it made him feel awful that Tomas was your comfort instead of him. 

Tomas tried to ease you into a conversation about Kuai Liang and he watched you tense and sit up. Did you think he was going to rush in and attack you? No. There had to be some parts of you still in there. 

“Kuai Liang isn't a bad person. You've been lied to-”

“He killed your family”. 

Tomas cleared his throat, uncomfortable. “Kuai Liang was too young to-”

“They’re all killers!” You snapped. “They'll kill me! He'll kill me! Did he send you in here to weaken me?!” You looked around the room in fear and Kuai Liang stupidly ran in there to comfort you as a reflex.. He realized his mistake when he caught your eye and you fell out of your bed trying to get away. 

“HE'S HERE!” You screeched like a banshee and crawled to the farthest wall. “HE'S HERE! HE'S HERE!”. Tomas gripped Kuai Liang’s shoulders and pushed him away. He knew he shouldn't have been in there, but a part of him still fought back against the younger man. 

“GET AWAY! GET AWAY FAST! HE'S HERE! HE'S HERE! HE'LL HURT ME!” You kept screaming and clawed at your face. 

Tomas closed the door in Kuai Liang’s face with a remorseful look. The man stayed there and listened to you scream and destroy things around you. He didn't move or cover his ears. He deserved to listen. It was his punishment for not finding you in time. 

This is gonna sound bad, but when you go missing, he already assumes you're dead 

Hope for the best but prepare for the worst type shit 

He's no stranger to death and obviously he doesn't WANT you to be dead, but he prepares himself for if that's the case 

Don't think he's not searching tho. He’s always looking for you. He's not even eating 

When they find you he's so relieved 

He has the doctors tell him how you are because as much as he wants to see you, he knows he gotta let them do their job 

He feels so bad because all the reports he's getting are terrible. Each bruise he's told about shatters him 

He brings flowers when he's finally allowed to visit you 

When you attack him he's thrown completely off guard 

He doesn't even really defend himself at first because he's never had to defend himself from you 

At first he thinks you're angry with him because he failed to protect you. When he's told what really happened, he wished it was the first one instead 

He blames himself for not protecting you, so he'd understand that 

You being tortured and your memories being toyed with? It was terrible. He'd say he wished the tables were turned and he was tortured, but he'd never want you to feel how he feels 

He keeps trying to communicate with you but you keep screaming and trying to kill him 

Honestly he'd deal with all of that without any complaints. He just keeps being told it's not a good idea and not good for your recovery 

The insults, the foul language, the physical attacks, none of it hurts as much as the knowledge that there's a possibility he won't get you back 

He has gifts sent to you but never says it's from him 

He has old pictures sent to you too hoping that it'll spark something 

He'll keep trying to save you even if it kills him 

Tomas’ heart thumped hard and rapidly in his chest as he walked to your room, bouquet in hand. He knew flowers wouldn't solve whatever happened to you, but he hoped it'd cheer you up somewhat. He had finally been allowed to visit you after what felt like forever and while he wasn't happy to see how bad you looked, he was happy to see you alive. 

He pushed the door open and your frame came into view. Bandages covered the bruises on your face and body, but thankfully you had showered since you arrived. He hoped feeling clean gave you a sense of relief or peace. He just hoped you felt better. 

You saw Tomas and your brows furrowed- no. That couldn't be. You wouldn't look at him like… nah. 

“Tomas?” You said. 

“It's me”. He turned to set the flowers down and immediately heard people yelling your name. He turned, scared he'd see you having some sort of medical complication. What he didn't expect was to feel you shove him against the wall then onto the ground. 

“MUTT! POISONOUS MUTT!”. He screamed as he felt something pierce his shoulder. It was a scissor. He hadn't even seen you grab it. How were you that fast and why were you doing this?

“Stop!” he shouted. You stared at him with loathing and hatred, which was something he couldn't wrap his head around. He winced when you pulled the scissor out. 

He blocked you from stabbing him in the chest. You looked angered and pushed on your hand to try and stab him. “What's wrong with you?” he whispered, his eyes wide in fright. 

The scissor was ripped from your hand and you were pulled off him by multiple doctors and others who heard the commotion. He got to his feet and watched as you kept trying to break free from their grip. 

“MUTT! POISONOUS MUTT!” You repeated. “HE KILLED HIS FAMILY! HE'LL LEAD US TO OUR DEMISE! POISON! TOXIC!I HAVE TO KILL HIM!” You screeched and kept struggling. He held his bloodied shoulder in disbelief. 

What had happened to you?

Once again, apologies it took so long. My writing break was timed POORLY

[tiredfox64]

No Puedo; Tengo Novio

Prior notes: grr grr Aventura, grr grr Prince Royce, grr grr Romeo Santos, it never ends. TO THE PERSON WHO HAS THE REQUEST DON’T WORRY I’LL START WORKING ON IN IT WHEN I FULLY WAKE UP!

Pairing: Bi-Han x Afab reader, Kuai Liang

Warnings ‼️: Angst? Yandere? Eh, blood and violence.

He’s the oldest. He’s the grandmaster. He’s better in every way. Yet you picked his younger brother. Can’t you see Bi-Han is the better option here?

Someone as glorious and precious as you doesn’t belong to a man like Kuai Liang. What does Kuai Liang know? Nothing, he knows nothing. While Bi-Han knows everything. He knows what will make you happy. What will make you squirm in bed. The things he would do to you would make you beg to be his wife and have his children. It would make you forget that Kuai Liang ever existed.

Bi-Han can’t sleep at night thinking about how you couldn’t possible be happy with his brother. You must be faking it just to prevent hurting Kuai Liang. But he can see right through you. You seem tense, like you haven’t felt pleasure in a while. Has his brother been depriving you? You poor thing, if you just let Bi-Han near he can fix that for you.

In fact, you should let him near now. He’s been patient for way too long. Longer than he would usual last. He can’t respect your boundaries anymore. If you’re gonna be near his clan he has the right to be near you whenever he wants. Even if that means right in front of Kuai Liang.

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Bi-Han went stomping around the temple while calling your name. He couldn’t find you at all. He wanted to have a “word” with you.

When he found you, you were of course with Kuai Liang. He watched in disgust as Kuai Liang peppered you with kisses. You laughed with joy every time he did. His arms were wrapped tight around your waist. You two looked like the happiest couple ever. Bi-Han still believed you were faking it. You were too kind and that’s your weakness. Too kind and caring to speak the truth about how you hate Kuai Liang. That you actually love Bi-Han and find him to be a much better lover.

He called you again much more louder and harsher this time. It got your attention and Kuai Liang’s. You got nervous quickly when he said he needed to talk to you. Kuai Liang told you to go ahead as he felt like his brother would do no harm to you.

When Bi-Han was able to get you alone he slammed you against the nearest wall and pressed himself against you. He grabbed your face and forcefully kissed you. Your lips felt perfect against his. It was truly meant to be. He was trying to push his tongue into your mouth before you decided to slap him. He grunted before pinning your wrist to the wall now.

“What do you think you are doing?” He gritted his teeth.

“What am I doing? What are you doing? Are you insane? I’m your brother’s girlfriend.” You snapped back at him.

“There is no need to keep that act up. I know you don’t love him. We are a perfect match and you have known that from the beginning.”

You looked at Bi-Han like he was crazy. Because he was! His statement seemed preposterous.

“You’re crazy.” You said

“I am not. I am in love with you. You should be honored to be worthy of my love.”

“This isn’t love. This is an obsession. It’s making you do crazy things like kissing your brother’s girlfriend.” You stated, “You better let me go before I scream for Kuai Liang.”

He scowled at your words. Kuai Liang must have corrupted your into thinking that Bi-Han was obsessed. No, this is not obsession, this is love! But for now he must let you go.

You rubbed your wrist as you walked away quickly, keeping an eye on Bi-Han just in case he tries something else. You decide not to tell Kuai Liang what just happened. It wasn’t your fault and you don’t want to start something bad around here. Bi-Han will however. He will do anything to get Kuai Liang off of you.

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The brothers were training together as suggested by Bi-Han. It wasn’t all that strange but Kuai Liang could sense that Bi-Han was more hostile than usual. His attacks seemed more erratic and unwarranted.

“You are not setting a good example for the others, brother.” Kuai Liang warned him.

“I am the grandmaster here. I can do what I want and take what I want.” Bi-Han answered back.

A few more punches and kicks were thrown with more force. It caught Kuai Liang off guard and he ended up falling to the floor. He expected his brother to help him up but he did the opposite. He stood over Kuai Liang with his fists clenched tight. For a second he debated walking away and not laying another blow to his own brother. But then he thought of you and how you were not by his side or in his bed. That was enough to set him off.

Bi-Han started pummeling Kuai Liang. He tried to defend himself but Bi-Han would find other places to hit. The other Lin Kuei clansmen were unsure of what to do. They didn’t want to go against their grandmaster so they were forced to watch as blood started to appear. No one could tell whose blood it was but it was getting on the floor and on his fists. Kuai Liang was starting to react less now as his injuries were becoming worse.

“You need to break up with her. You can’t satisfy her like I could. I am the grandmaster here and I deserve to have her by my side. Not my weak brother who can’t fend for himself.” He hissed at Kuai Liang.

Tomas saw what was going on and stepped in to pull Bi-Han off Kuai Liang. He didn’t care what happened beforehand or what will happen after. He only cared for Kuai Liang who was bleeding from his forehead and the side of his face. There was probably more areas that Bi-Han damaged but that will be discovered soon. Tomas helped his brother up and brought him to his room.

When you came by after you were horrified to see how Kuai Liang was. You immediately started to help clean and patch up his wounds. Luckily the gashes on his face weren’t too bad but he did bleed a lot. You tried asking what happened but he was silent. There was little to no emotions in his face. Just a dead stare as he went over what his brother told him. If he could hurt his own brother, imagine what he could do to you if you kept denying him. Kuai Liang loves you but he is now worried for your safety. It’s best if he lets you go.

When you were done patching him up that’s when he spoke. He was blunt about it and said it was over. It was a real shock to you. You questioned him, asking if Bi-Han told him anything or if he found out what Bi-Han did. He didn’t answer those questions but told you to leave. He was hoping you would get out and never return. Never give his brother the satisfaction. That’s not how it went.

You left Kuai Liang’s room, crying into the palm of your hands. Everything was going wrong. It only got worse when you bumped into Bi-Han. You tried to run away but he grabbed you immediately.

“Why are you crying? Did my brother do that? I told you he doesn’t love you. If you had listened to me you would not be crying right now.” He was very harsh with you.

You looked down at his knuckles and saw how bruised and bloodied they were. It showed that Bi-Han did do something to Kuai Liang. It made you cry even harder as you realized just how obsessed he was about you.

“Stop your crying. I will make you feel better. I will never break your heart. Trust me. I will make you feel things that you have never felt before. No one will ever be able to make you feel the way I make you feel. No one.”

You couldn’t stop your crying. You were sad and horrified yet he never got the hint that you didn’t want to be with him. You never actually loved him. Well, maybe you do. Another kiss might help you figure it out.

He kissed you again with a lot of force. He held your face as your tears fell on his hands. This was your nightmare but Bi-Han’s dream. Can’t you see, he loves you!

He loves you!

He loves you!

He loves you!

This is not an obsession this is love!

There was only one thing left to say and he whispered it against your lips.

“I love you…”

After notes: 🍊👀DO YOU SLEEP? YOU MOVE SO FAST. 👽👀 YOU AS WELL IS YOUR CIRCADIAN RHYTHM OKAY? 👁️👁️ ah hello, back again I see. The spirits told me I have to sleep now. I’ll be nicer to Kuai Liang soon i promise. I’m just on some hot girl energy type of whatever. Adiós!

[chiqelatasblog]

In the Middle of the Night🌙

-> Ao3 link is here.

-> Part Four is here.

Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub- Zero x Reader, Kuai Liang/ Scorpion x Reader, Tomas Vrbada/ Smoke x Reader

Author’s Note : I apologize for the delay! The past couple of weeks have been incredibly stressful for me. I had several meetings and had to write protocols for my client’s case. Additionally, I visited a friend who was staying in a different province, four hours away from where I live. Everything seemed to overlap (and to top it off, even my menstrual cycle was 17 days late due to the stress). But now, everything seems to be settling down, and I’ve managed to clear my mind and focus on writing this chapter as soon as possible. I decided to split this chapter into two parts because I felt it would have a better impact, and I wanted to give the final chapter its own spotlight. I hope you enjoy reading it! Thank you for your patience and understanding.❤️

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CHAPTER FIVE : (READER)

Until now, you never thought that you could fall in love with three people at the same time.

You didn’t realize a few months ago that such a thing was possible, but now it felt as natural and normal to you as breathing. It was as if Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas had always been a part of your life. You got used to their presence so easily that now it’s hard to imagine your life without them; you were so attached to them. It was a fact that you didn’t know them until a few months ago, but although you couldn’t quite describe it, it felt as if your souls had known each other for a long time. Your movements resembled pieces of a jigsaw puzzle—they were so complete. There was a nonverbal communication between you; sometimes you could effortlessly communicate without speaking, even just by looking. This situation was very special and unique for you, as you had never made such a connection with anyone before.

Each moment spent with them felt like a blessing. When Bi-Han’s stern gaze softened just for you, it made you feel cherished in a way you had never experienced before. Kuai Liang’s calm presence was a sanctuary, a steady anchor in the chaos of life. And Tomas, with his unyielding loyalty and kindness, filled your heart with warmth and light. The bond you shared with them was deeper than mere friendship. It was an unspoken promise, a silent understanding that no matter what happened, you would stand by them. You hadn’t yet said it out loud to any of them, but you loved all three with a special bond and emotion. Your actions and looks might have betrayed your feelings, but you lacked the courage to put it into words.

You would find yourself watching them, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude and affection. The way Tomas’s eyes glinted with mischief when he teased you, or how Bi-Han’s rare, gentle smiles made your heart flutter. Kuai Liang’s reassuring touch or kiss on your shoulder during moments of doubt spoke volumes about his unwavering support. Each of these little things cemented their place in your heart, making it impossible to imagine a future without them.

They had become a part of you, woven into the very fabric of your existence. And even though the words were yet to be spoken, your heart had already made its choice. They were the kind of people you would want to keep hidden in your heart forever, to protect and watch over.

Loving Tomas was like experiencing spring. He wasn’t as serious as his two brothers; he was polite, with a naivety that softened the expression in his light gray eyes, making them irresistible to look at. Despite the scars on his soul from a very young age, Tomas was brave. He was the first person to choose to trust you, and that trust felt like a precious gift. His sense of humor was not only funny but remarkably similar to yours, making your conversations a source of endless delight. His presence was like feeling the gentle warmth of the sun after the harsh cold of a long black winter. Every moment spent with him was filled with hope and joy, like the first flowers of the season blooming and signaling new beginnings.

His love was tender and kind, much like the soft rain that revives the earth after a prolonged drought. Being with him allowed you to embrace your inner child, escaping the harsh realities of life. You found joy in the simple pleasures of watching TV shows or movies together, taking care of mundane tasks, having small, meaningful conversations, and spending time with Ninja. His ability to bring simplicity and happiness into your life made every moment with him feel like a cherished memory in the making.

Loving Kuai Liang was like experiencing summer. His body was warmer than normal due to his pyromancy, and you found yourself surrounded by a gentle, safe warmth next to him, especially when wrapped in his strong arms. It was such a soothing feeling that most of the time, it made your eyelids feel heavy and sleepy because of the peace you felt. Although touching Kuai Liang was wonderful, he was afraid to touch you because of his dark past, fearing that he might tarnish you. When you heard that, it felt like you had been shot in the brain, and your heart painfully squeezed thinking about what this strong man had been subjected to. None of them had told you exactly what they had been through in the past—you knew bits about what happened with Leilani and a few other masters, but nothing more—but it wasn’t difficult to guess. So you left it entirely up to them to control the speed at which they wanted to move forward in the process. You wanted them to know that they had this power, that they had a say.

Every time you spent with Kuai Liang filled you with a vibrant energy, warming you to the core like basking in sunlight. His love was wild and passionate, yet he was also incredibly kind; it set your soul ablaze, much like the intense heat of a scorching day. You felt comfortable next to him, his presence enveloping you like warm summer nights. You enjoyed walking outdoors with him, cooking together with his help (especially since discovering his distinct fondness for sweets last week), chatting about past missions, and witnessing the proud expression on his face when you asked him to show his powers.

Loving Bi-Han was like experiencing winter. His true self, which emerged after overcoming his initially harsh and inaccessible exterior, exuded a unique warmth that demonstrated winter was not just about coldness. Like soft snowflakes falling to the ground in the serene beauty of a winter landscape, his touch was gentle and filled with longing. Though not as openly expressive as his two brothers, you could sense his love in the way he touched you or looked at you every time. Despite the coldness that seemed to envelop him, his gaze held a warm invitation that melted away the chill, filling you with a warmth that drew you to him.

Unlike Kuai Liang, Bi-Han was not one to avoid contact. Although the ice forces surrounding him usually caused harm to both himself and others, this rule didn’t seem to apply to you. Since realizing this, it was as if he couldn’t stop touching you. He never verbalized it, but every time a part of his body—his arm, hand, or leg—came into contact with yours, it was evident how much he cared. Though his touch initially felt cold and eerie, you soon grew accustomed to it, even finding it addictive. Despite appearances, Bi-Han served as the cornerstone among the brothers, keeping them united and shielded with his protective and steadfast demeanor. Being included in that circle filled your heart with love and made you feel special.

Even though Bi-Han was the last to let down his walls around you, getting used to him was quick and effortless, much like with the other brothers. You enjoyed conversing with him about his clan, listening to him describe his daily routines, and especially watching the city view in the evenings. The silence felt peaceful rather than suffocating, allowing for a range of unexpressed emotions to be felt in that moment. Moreover, witnessing his moments of care for Ninja when he thought no one was watching was another detail that melted your heart.

You were deeply connected to three men in a way that scared you a little. Your emotions were incredibly intense—the love you felt for them, their choice to trust you despite their painful pasts, the respect you held for their strength and courage, your anger at the injustices they faced, and your desire for revenge. You had never experienced such emotions so clearly and intensely, shaking you to the core. It was somewhat frightening, as your priorities suddenly shifted to them instead of yourself. Your sole focus became freeing them from the clutches of the book and its curse, with less than a week and a half remaining until the deadline.

Despite your efforts, you hadn’t found a solution yet. Since the owner of the book could only summon them once, you wouldn’t be able to see them again after the time limit passed. The thought of this damned you, filling your heart with great fear at the prospect of what they might face if Sektor failed to protect them when he came to retrieve the book after you, and it fell into the hands of a new person.

You were prepared to do whatever it took to prevent this outcome, but the lack of a solution filled you with terrible anxiety and drove you to the brink of madness. Just two months ago, your biggest concern was unemployment and paying rent, but now your problems had evolved into something entirely different. Your own worries seemed insignificant compared to the future of the men you loved. Breaking this curse had become the most important thing in your life right now.

Bi-Han’s change in attitude towards you had somewhat lessened the effect of the curse on you. However, it remained a relentless force, constantly gnawing at you in a corner of your mind. Whenever you were close to Tomas, Kuai Liang, or Bi-Han, it seemed to roar in your mind, filling you with a desire that was hard to resist. Your skin practically begged you to touch them, and sometimes the desire was so intense that it felt like you were engulfed in flames—it hurt and clouded your judgment, making you feel almost foolish. At times, the urge became so overwhelming that finding refuge in the bathroom seemed to be the only solution. While your fingers didn’t always provide the satisfaction you sought, they at least allowed you to regain some semblance of control. But the lingering feeling in your mind never disappeared. It was akin to eating without feeling satiated—it was relentless and unyielding.

Each passing day seemed to bring a new level of torment, as if the curse intensified with every sunrise. The pain became unbearable, almost akin to torture. You couldn’t eat, sleep, or even think properly in the last couple of days. Functioning normally seemed impossible, and at times, it became so overwhelming that even breathing felt like a challenge. You didn’t know how to endure this any longer. You were painfully aware that each day was worse than the last, and yet there seemed to be no end in sight. You were drowning in a sea of agony, struggling to keep your head above water.

Despite the agony you endured, you were determined to bear the burden alone. You knew that all three of them wanted to help you, hating to see you suffer. Yet, you couldn’t bring yourself to accept their help. You didn’t want them to be involved with the curse in any way. Forgiving and moving on with your life would be impossible if they intervened, so you chose to ignore them and continue caring for yourself in your own way.

Thrusting your hands into the pockets of your raincoat, you gazed up at the reddening sky, returning from yet another unsuccessful job interview. How you wished the answer lay somewhere out there. You had tried everything written in all the sources you could access, masking your disappointment even as each failure chipped away at your hope. Trying to guess how they felt and what they were thinking only added to your frustration, yet you refrained from showing it, knowing they needed your support more than your despair. In the ten years since they were cursed, they had endured far more disappointments than you had faced in two months. You could imagine how futile it must have felt for them to continue hoping. They had exhausted their strength fighting disappointment after disappointment, opting instead to cherish the present moment—a reality that broke your heart a little.

The fact that they had accepted their situation and grown tired of fighting weighed heavily on you. Yet, you couldn’t blame them for choosing this path. Instead, you took it upon yourself to fight for them. However, with each passing day and no solution to the curse in sight, a heavy weight descended upon your shoulders, threatening to crush you. Despite the growing despair, you knew you had to keep fighting for them. You were their only hope, their only chance at breaking the curse.

Witnessing them struggle against the influence of their past only intensified your own turmoil. Despite Tomas sometimes managing to fall asleep, there were nights when he woke up with unfamiliar eyes, as if he didn’t recognize where he was, his body stiffening as if his breath would be snatched away. Occasionally, you were able to calm him down in the morning, but even then, Tomas seemed powerless against his own imposing body.

Kuai Liang, on the other hand, often woke up drenched in sweat from nightmares, avoiding your attempts to soothe him. He repeatedly muttered about his fear of contaminating you too, leaving you barely holding yourself together as you fought the urge to tightly embrace him. His pain was palpable, almost physically hurting you.

As for Bi-Han, there were times when he hadn’t slept for days, his body tensed with the need to protect them from imagined external dangers, leaving small traces of ice and freezing cold wherever he passed. Rings of exhaustion encircled his eyes, his face taking on a statuesque and lifeless appearance, his gaze fixed on the windows and doors. It took you hours to convince him that there was no imminent danger and coax him into relaxation.

All three of them exuded danger; their capabilities to take lives were apparent from their looks and the threatening aura they emitted. Their muscular, powerful bodies spoke of a lifetime of training for combat. This reality became especially clear when they touched you—it was too easy for them to cause harm if they chose to. They possessed a suppressed power that pained you to witness. Despite being honorable men, it must have wounded their pride and soul to see themselves in such a vulnerable state.

Your train of thought was abruptly halted by the sound of someone calling your name. As you lifted your gaze from the sidewalk, you were met with the sight of a stranger standing beside Sektor, the same man you had encountered weeks ago under rather peculiar circumstances. Sektor, as formal as ever, greeted you, his black hair streaked with long gray tufts and his neatly trimmed beard suggesting recent grooming. Standing beside him was a figure who exuded an otherworldly aura, his piercing blue eyes unsettling and filled with an uncanny intensity. With a formal gesture, he crossed his arms, revealing intricate dragon tattoos that seemed to shimmer with an ethereal glow, mirroring the luminance of his gaze. Despite the chill in the air, there was an unexpected warmth in his smile as he uttered your first and last name, as if he had been anticipating your arrival.

You stood frozen, momentarily taken aback by the presence of the enigmatic figure before you. Tentatively, you ventured, “Lord Liu Kang?”

“Yes,” came the calm reply, confirming his identity. Despite his formidable stature and commanding presence, his voice carried a soothing timbre, putting you somewhat at ease. Strands of his long, obsidian hair were gathered in a half bun behind him, dressed in traditional Far Eastern attire, his hands were swathed in bandages, to his hand to elbow. It was surprising to see him in such ordinary garb, far removed from the divine image you had conjured in your mind. Yet, there was an undeniable aura of power and authority that emanated from him, accentuated by the eerie glow of his tattoos and the intensity of his gaze.

“Sektor has briefed me on the situation and the curse,” Liu Kang continued, taking a deliberate step forward. “May I have a word?”

As you silently nodded in agreement, Liu Kang motioned for you to follow him, leaving Sektor behind as the two of you made your way to a more secluded area, away from the crowd.

“Do you know how to break Quan Chi’s curse?” you voiced the question that had been weighing heavily on your mind since you first laid eyes on him. As a god, you assumed he held the answers to questions and problems that eluded mortals.

“It’s a curse I’ve encountered before,” he replied, his demeanor calm yet tinged with a hint of anger that simmered beneath the surface. “An ancient and demonic curse, leaving behind lasting damage, particularly to the mind. I am familiar with how to dispel such curses, but the solution is not one you will easily accept.”

“I want to save them.” Your voice suddenly became muffled, the tears that filled up as you thought about this situation and tried to hold them back, now that the three of them were not around, instantly began to flow down your cheeks. If you were a little embarrassed that you were crying in front of this man-god you never knew, the helplessness and grief you felt was even greater. “I can’t let them go back to the book again. What needs to be done to lift the curse? Please tell me, this has to stop.”

“You possess a pure heart,” The Fire God’s gaze fell upon you, a mix of sorrow and compassionate understanding that softened his features. “It has become increasingly rare to encounter individuals like you in this day and age… Black magic is inherently cruel, and so are its remedies,” he continued, his expression growing solemn. “There is only one method to lift the curse: the owner of the book must make a sacrificial offering of themselves.”

You fell into a stunned silence, grappling with the weight of his words as they reverberated in your mind. Your lips parted, but for a moment, it felt as though words had deserted you. Eventually, you managed to utter a whisper-like voice.

“So, what you’re saying is…”

“Death,” Liu Kang interjected sharply, his tone cutting through the air with finality. “This curse, rooted in ancient and potent sorcery, is designed by practitioners of black magic like Quan Chi to be unbreakable. The spell binds not only the cursed individuals but also the owner of the book, tethering your life energy to its pages until they return to its confines. Thus, any attempt to resist only serves to intensify the curse’s grip, compelling you to act against your will. The only path to freedom is through the ultimate sacrifice.”

Liu Kang’s gaze darkened with anger, a muscle twitching on his chin as his hands clenched into fists at his sides. His eyes, which seconds ago were warm and comforting, now blazed with righteous fury, their intensity piercing through the air like a searing flame.

“The curse is insidious,” he began, his voice laced with frustration. “It draws power from your life energy and intertwines it with their fate. As long as the owner of the book lives, the curse will persist. However,” he continued, his tone lowering to a solemn register, “if the owner willingly sacrifices their life, the curse will vanish along with the book, its source extinguished forever. It’s a trade-off, a cruel exchange that inevitably claims one side or the other. That’s the essence of black magic.”

You found yourself speechless, unable to even swallow past the lump in your throat. The gravity of Liu Kang’s words hung heavy in the air, casting a pall over your thoughts. Sacrifice your own life? The notion seemed incomprehensible, unfathomable, yet here it was, staring you in the face like an immutable truth carved in stone. With your family, dreams, and aspirations still within reach, could you bear to relinquish it all? Could you summon the courage to make such a sacrifice?

Strangely, these questions didn’t pierce your heart as much as the thought of never seeing all three of them again. Each day seemed more agonizing than the last, and you knew that the brave facade you wore didn’t fool anyone. Yet, you couldn’t bear the idea of burdening them with the curse’s weight and prompting them to take drastic action. You had found them too soon to lose them; the prospect losing them now felt unbearably cruel, like a dagger twisting in your soul. Their presence had became so integral to your life that you had actually forgotten what loneliness felt like.

You loved them, each with their own unique characteristics and qualities, with a possessive and fierce intensity unlike any love you had ever known. So when the answer came to you in a heartbeat, it didn’t scare you; instead, it settled on your shoulders like a comforting blanket, a peaceful weight that affirmed your resolve. Their needs, desires, and happiness were paramount to you, more precious than anything else in the world. As you reflected on the countless hardships they had endured, the thought of subjecting them to further suffering became unbearable. The power to end their torment lay within your grasp; you could not turn away from that responsibility. Though you couldn’t be with them in the way you longed for, you were determined to secure their well-being, even if it meant sacrificing your own life. They deserved nothing less than to reclaim the lives they had been denied for so long, to find happiness and peace in a world free from the curse’s grip.

“You don’t have to do this,” Liu Kang said, his voice soft yet filled with understanding.

“And shall I allow them to return to the book? No, I will never allow it,” you declared, your voice ringing with newfound determination. “I made a promise to them… My love for them eclipses all else, even my own life.”

Even as the curse neared its end, you couldn’t bear the thought of it being their final memory, tainted by your tears and suffering as each day brought more agony. You wanted to leave them with fond memories, to be remembered in a positive light. The idea of confessing your love to them seemed daunting until just ten minutes ago. Despite never feeling ready to bid them farewell, you knew it was inevitable.

“How am I to do it? With a knife?” you asked, your voice trembling with uncertainty. “I… I can’t take my own life. Will you help me?”

A myriad of emotions flickered across Liu Kang’s face, as if your question had unleashed a torrent of conflicting thoughts within him. You were taken aback by the sight of such ‘human’ emotions on the face of a god.

“I wish there were another way, one where you wouldn’t have to bear this burden alone,” Liu Kang sighed, his voice heavy with regret. “Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas aren’t merely my chosen warriors; they’re also my friends—more than just allies. You are sacrificing yourself to save them; of course, I will assist you in any way I can.”

“And will you make it as painless as possible?” you asked, your voice tinged with a slight fear.

With a solemn nod, Liu Kang replied, “They will remember this act of immense bravery and courage for the rest of their lives. Your sacrifice, while saving them, will also haunt them forever.’’ You acknowledged it inwardly. Yet, the moment Liu Kang proposed the solution, your decision was made. You meant every word you said; they meant more to you than anything else, and you wanted them to reclaim the life that had been stolen from them. If sacrificing yourself was the path to ensure their freedom, then so be it.

“I want to bid them farewell,” you said, your gaze falling to the ground. “But the final act… I cannot bear to do it in front of them, especially Tomas. After what happened to his family, it would be too traumatic for him.”

‘’Of course,” Liu Kang replied, his voice filled with understanding. You gulped and lifted your gaze to the sky, silently observing the clusters of red clouds and the golden sun, its light waning as it prepared to set. The realization that this would be your final sunset weighed heavily on your chest, a palpable heaviness that seemed to anchor you to the ground. As you tried to swallow past the lump in your throat, a tear escaped, tracing a solitary path down your cheek. Your voice emerged hoarse, almost strained with emotion.

“I wish it hadn’t come to this. I would have cherished more moments with them.”

“Sometimes, even a god cannot interfere in the complex fabric of life,” Liu Kang said, tilting his head back to gaze at the sky alongside you. “Each thread is woven with its purpose and outcome. There are two paths before you, and the latter entails your choice to end your life. While I respect your decision, I must ask one last time: are you certain about this?”

As Liu Kang’s luminous blue eyes bore into yours, a sense of calm washed over you, a tranquility that spoke of acceptance and resolve.

“More than anything.”

***

As you returned home, it felt as though your body no longer belonged to you. You couldn’t recall how you had made the journey back; it was as if you had been moving through molasses, each step slow and heavy. Though your surroundings appeared blurred, your thoughts remained clear, cocooning you in a blanket of comfort and unwavering determination.

Upon softly opening the door, the scene that greeted you shattered what little remained of your heart. Bi-Han occupied the single seat he always favored, gently stroking Ninja’s head as the cat slept soundly in his lap. A rare, tender smile graced his lips, a sight that had become increasingly frequent in recent days. Meanwhile, Kuai Liang and Tomas sat cross-legged, engrossed in something on your laptop, their occasional laughter filling the room with warmth and joy. The serene atmosphere tugged at your heartstrings, leaving you both comforted and conflicted. How could you possibly break the news of your decision to them?

Caught in a state of frozen uncertainty, it was Kuai Liang who first noticed your presence. His expression of happiness dissolved into pure astonishment at the sight of Fire God and Sektor standing behind you.

“Lord Liu Kang?” he exclaimed, disbelief evident in his voice. As his words hung in the air, the rest of the brothers turned their heads towards the entrance, mirroring Kuai Liang’s surprise. They remained rooted in place for a few seconds before Bi-Han took decisive action. Carefully lowering Ninja to the ground, he strode forward to stand before Liu Kang, bowing his head respectfully in greeting.

“Lord Liu Kang.” Bi-Han uttered, his tone a mixture of reverence and warmth.

Liu Kang’s gentle smile widened as he placed both hands on Bi-Han’s shoulders, lifting him upright. “Bi-Han, it has indeed been a long time,” he acknowledged. His glowing eyes shifted to encompass Tomas and Kuai Liang, who had gathered behind Bi-Han. “It is truly a pleasure to see the warriors of the Lin Kuei, defenders of Earthrealm, and my friends once again.”

“The pleasure is ours,” Kuai Liang replied, his voice infused with warmth and sincerity as Bi-Han’s. They all expressed their respect and embraced each other in a brotherly hug, a sight that surprised you, especially seeing a god joining in. Engaging in small talk, their camaraderie was palpable. Bi-Han’s gaze then shifted towards Sektor, who stood silently beside you. His brow furrowed slightly, silently questioning his right-hand man.

“Sektor? You didn’t come all the way here just to show Lord Liu Kang, did you? It’s still more than a week until you’re supposed to take the book.”

Sektor didn’t answer, instead, when he gave you an evasive glance, Bi-Han instantly caught his gaze and his expression hardened. As he crossed his arms on both sides, the cold waves of air that began to spread over him tingled your skin.

‘’What’s going on?’’

‘’Bi-Han,” you interjected in a gentle, strained voice, struggling to suppress your emotions while the curse writhed inside you more cruelly than ever. The pain surged higher and more severe than you were accustomed to, causing your knees to momentarily tremble. Bi-Han easily grabbed you by the waist and pulled you to himself, his expression shifting from one of composure to one of anxious concern in an instant, causing your heart to flutter. Knowing how strict he was with himself about showing his feelings compared to his brothers, it filled you with happiness to see how much he had progressed in such a short period of time. It was the greatest proof of the depth of his feelings for you. Bi-Han was a stoic man, never one to show vulnerability. Seeing him like this now was both heartwarming and overwhelming. He was laying himself bare before you, offering his feelings on a platter, and you realized you could easily hurt him if you chose to, because he was showing you his vulnerability so openly.

“Are you all right?” Bi-Han’s hand gently cupped your face, his calloused fingers stroking your cheek. “Did you cry?”

At his question, Tomas and Kuai Liang turned their gaze toward you. You quickly composed yourself, the callouses on his hand providing a comforting touch against your skin. With a slight tremble in your voice, you managed a reassuring smile, your eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and sadness. You wanted to remain strong until the very end, to etch a lasting impression in their minds.

“I’m fine,” you replied, your voice surprisingly calm despite the turmoil within. You savored Bi-Han’s protective touch, the coolness of his skin a stark contrast to the warmth of his presence. The scent of cold and fresh snow emanating from him filled your senses, your fingers traced the contours of his strong features lovingly, committing each curve to memory. A lump formed in your throat, making it hard to swallow, as you fought back tears that threatened to spill over. Gently winding the few remaining tufts of his black hair into a small bun, you planted a tender kiss on his pale lips, conveying all your emotions in that fleeting moment. Stepping back, you caressed his cheek one last time, the rough texture of his short stubble a familiar sensation against your fingertips. Bi-Han’s expression grew increasingly worried, his furrowed eyebrows revealing his confusion as he searched your eyes for answers.

However, instead of offering an explanation, you gently slipped out of Bi-Han’s grasp and made your way to Kuai Liang, who stood beside him.

“What’s going on? Why are you acting like this?” Kuai Liang’s voice was laced with concern as he carefully cupped your face with both hands, his thumbs stroking your skin. You responded with a soft smile, kissing one of his palms before silencing him by placing your finger on his lips. His brow furrowed in confusion, the joy from moments ago fading from his face. You felt a pang of guilt for dampening his spirits, but you knew that everything you were about to do was for their well-being. They would no longer suffer, be exploited, or have their consent disregarded. They would reclaim their dignified lives, where they rightfully belonged.

As Kuai Liang fell silent, you withdrew your hand, savoring the warmth emanating from his body for what would be the last time. Despite his formidable appearance, he exuded a comforting aura, his skin radiating health, his stance unwavering. The faint scent of ash, a remnant of his pyromancy, mingled with the aroma of cedar reminiscent of summer nights, enveloping his bronze-toned physique. His amber-brown eyes, usually filled with determination, now held a soft, worried gaze as they met yours.

Struggling to maintain your smile, you rose onto tiptoe and pressed a gentle kiss to Kuai Liang’s lips. “It will be all right.” you assured him, though your voice faltered toward the end. Blinking back tears that threatened to cloud your vision, you swiftly moved to Tomas’s side before Kuai Liang could reach out to you once more.

There was an obvious panic on Tomas’s young face as he scrutinized you from head to toe with his gray eyes. You felt a pang of guilt for causing such distress. Though you kept your shoulders straight, reminding yourself of your purpose, and tried to maintain a smile, tears welled up in your eyes again when Tomas uttered your name in desperation. Instantly, you enveloped him in a tight hug.

“Talk to us, what’s going on? Did someone hurt you? Just give us their names,” Tomas pleaded, his muscular arms circling you protectively, as if he wanted to shield you from everything, even though you were the one who wanted to do the same for him.

You shook your head in response, planting a kiss on Tomas’s cheek. The faint scent of embers lingered around him, reminiscent of burning wood. Whether from his smoke magic or not, the smell defined Tomas—wild and free. Despite his formidable abilities as an assassin, his naive trust in you was evident. Stepping back, you met his gaze, his gray eyes almost appearing blue in the light. Though he possessed frightening strength and abilities, the vulnerability in his eyes told a different story. Swallowing back your emotions, you resolved that he wouldn’t suffer from the curse’s torment any longer.

You remembered how Tomas had reacted when the power went out a few days ago—it was as if everything had been reset that evening, despite the progress he had made since leaving the book.

“Tomas, it’s okay. You’re safe. You’re not in the book; look, I’m here. Your brothers are also here,” you reassured him, trying to calm his frantic state.

Thanks to the small fireball Kuai Liang created in his hands, Tomas became clearly visible. The silver-haired assassin stood frozen, breathing heavily, fists clenched, his gaze darting around erratically. Sweat matted his short hair against his forehead, glinting in the dim light of the room.

“Tomas,” you called softly again, reaching out to him, but Bi-Han stopped you, gripping your wrist firmly.

“He might hurt you,” Bi-Han warned, his voice harsh and protective. “He’s out of his mind right now, more like a cornered animal than a human being.”

“He’s just scared, that’s all,” you countered, disregarding Bi-Han’s warning. Carefully, you approached Tomas, making sure not to startle him further. “Tomas? Let me touch you, let me show you that you’re not there anymore.”

As you raised your hand to touch him, Tomas’s gaze fixed on you, his jaw clenched tightly. An angry, almost aggressive snarl escaped his lips. Bi-Han and Kuai Liang moved to protect you, but you signaled for them to stay put. Sudden movements and sounds would only agitate Tomas further.

“You’re not there, Tomas. It’s been two months since you came out of the book. You’re in my house, next to me. Look,” you reassured him, your hand gently touching his cheek. Tomas flinched violently, but he didn’t lash out. Though he remained as still as a statue, his gaze shifted to focus on you.

“You don’t want to scare Ninja anymore, do you?” you continued, noticing a slight softening in Tomas’s expression. A low, plaintive sound escaped his throat, resembling the whimper of a wounded animal. “Shh, everything is fine. I know, I know. Come, let me hug you.”

Gathering courage from his stillness, you wrapped your arms around him. Tomas melted into the embrace, his grip tightening around you as he took a sharp breath. Despite the pressure from his strong frame, you made no sound, understanding his need for this connection. As Tomas whispered your name like a prayer, your heart swelled with love and pain, wishing you could heal the wounds inflicted on his soul by the curse.

Your hand found the short tufts of gray hair, stroking them lovingly as you planted a kiss first on his cheek and then on his forehead. “I’m here. It’s all right, you’re safe, Tomas.”

And now you had the power to break this curse.

“You frighten me,” Tomas’s voice interrupted your thoughts, drawing your attention. His words echoed the fear and confusion swirling within you, amplifying the emotional turmoil.

You fought to maintain the dwindling smile on your face as you leaned in to kiss Tomas goodbye on the lips. Every touch, every gesture, was imbued with a depth of feeling that words could not fully express. It was a bittersweet farewell, filled with love and longing. Then, you turned to look at Kuai Liang and Bi-Han, their expressions clouded with concern.

“I love all three of you,” you whispered, the words heavy with emotion. For days, you grappled with how to express this overwhelming feeling, the realization that they had become the foundation of your world, each one holding a profound significance in your heart. The mere thought of voicing these sentiments once filled you with breathless anticipation, but now, as the words escaped your lips, they carried a weight you couldn’t bear alone. Indeed, the pain of the curse paled in comparison to the heaviness in your heart. “Please don’t be angry with anyone, okay?”

“Why are you saying these things?” Bi-Han’s voice cut through the air like shards of ice, his tone rigid and unyielding. Understanding his reaction became easier as you got to know him. He tended to become aggressive when he didn’t want to show his emotions – especially when panicked or afraid. This was one of those moments.

“To whom, why should we be angry?” Tomas’s voice conveyed his confusion. His genuine perplexity only served to deepen the ache in your chest, reminding you of the innocence he still retained despite everything he had endured. You took a deep breath, after stroking Tomas’s cheek for the last time, you stepped back. However, Kuai Liang stopped you by grabbing your arm.

“Tell us what’s going on.” he demanded, his voice taking on a tone you had never heard before. It was the first time you heard him speak like this. Despite his usual warmth and politeness, even when discussing his past, his voice now turned cold, almost resembling that of his older brother, but never had it been this harsh and demanding.

“I will lift the curse,” you stated firmly, leaving no room for argument. “It’s my decision, so don’t hate me or anyone in this room for this, okay? I want what’s best for you.”

“Don’t we have a say in this? And how will you lift the curse?” Kuai Liang’s tone showed his displeasure. He shook you, and the words came out as a snarl. The fire burning in his eyes was evident, his touch alarmingly hot. But behind this intensity, the concern and fear he felt were clear in his expression, open and vulnerable. “Speak!”

“This is a farewell,” Bi-Han said in a single breath, his words cutting through the tension like a knife. “You are saying goodbye to us.”

“No!” Tomas, standing up to Kuai Liang, grabbed your other arm and turned you around to face him. “Tell me it’s a lie.”

You swallowed hard. As your composure, which you tried to maintain, slowly crumbled, your lower lip trembled, and tears flowed freely. An expression of denial appeared on the faces of the three of them, indicating their refusal to accept what was about to happen.

“I’d love to,” you responded to Tomas. “But Bi-Han is telling the truth.” After inhaling deeply, you squared your shoulders and fought back the tears. “I love all three of you very much. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you. I made a promise, and I will keep it. I will set you free.”

“How?!” Bi-Han appeared in front of you with a roar, gripping your chin and forcing you to meet his furious gaze. “Whatever sacrifice you’re considering, I won’t allow it. Do you hear me?! You’re not doing anything! We will find another solution.”

“There is no other solution,” you said tearfully, freeing yourself from his grip and placing your hand on his. “I can’t set you free any other way, Bi-Han.”

“No. I said no damnit!” Bi-Han’s voice was adamant. “You stubborn woman, listen to me; I won’t allow it.”

“I’m so sorry,” you said, your voice trembling. “I wish there was another way, but it’s the only way, and I’m ready to fulfill it gladly. I’m not going to let you stop this.” You glanced over your shoulder at Liu Kang. The Fire God watched in silence, his gaze betraying a mix of sadness and anger at the injustice of the situation. “I am ready.”

As Liu Kang nodded his approval, an aggressive growl rumbled from Bi-Han’s throat, his dark, furious gaze fixed on Liu Kang now. Layers of frost and sharp ice began to grow on his skin, a chilling armor of determination as he prepared to confront a god to protect you. It was evident that while they respected Liu Kang deeply, you held an even greater significance to them in that moment, compelling them to face him in order to shield you from harm.

“Don’t you fucking dare. Don’t come close—” he warned, his voice carrying the weight of finality.

“I have the utmost respect for you, Lord Liu Kang, but if you take one more step, I will have to attack you.” Tomas’s voice pierced the tense air, devoid of its usual warmth, cold and chillingly clear. His bright eyes, once filled with warmth, now darkened and focused with an intensity that chilled you more than Bi-Han’s powers.

Aware that what you were about to do would haunt you forever, you steeled yourself. Despite the weight of your decision, there was no other choice. Your sole aim was to bring an end to this ordeal swiftly and without further harm. The thought of anyone else being affected by the curse was unbearable.

“Nobody’s going to do anything,” you said, turning your gaze away from Bi-Han and fixing it on the wall behind him. You couldn’t bear to meet their eyes. “I order all three of you to remain in your places and not to move.”

Your command hung in the air, heavy and tense. A suffocating silence descended upon the room, broken only by the sound of their ragged breaths. This was the first and last time you’d give them orders. It was for their sake, but it didn’t ease the guilt gnawing at you. You’d betrayed their trust. A few more tears escaped down your cheeks as you walked towards the book on the kitchen counter, still avoiding their gazes. You easily slipped out of Bi-Han’s loosening grip, determined to see this through to the end.

As you mentally prepared to pick up the book and materialize into the Fire Temple, it remained stubbornly unmoved. Furrowing your eyebrows, you tried to lift it with both hands, but it felt as if the book weighed a ton. A searing heat radiated from your fingertips to your hand, threatening to melt your skin and expose your bones if you held on any longer. With a small whimper, you pulled your hands back, and Liu Kang came into view.

“The curse knows what you’re about to do, that’s why it won’t let the book move.” He explained.

“But… if we can’t take it with us—then…” you trailed off, a sense of helplessness washing over you.

“Yes,” Liu Kang replied in a carefully flat voice.

“I don’t want them to witness this,” you said, your eyes flickering to the three men you held dear. Their faces revealed a tumult of emotions—betrayal, concern, and fear all intertwined. Despite their futile attempts to defy your command and approach, their efforts proved fruitless. Veins protruded on their skin, and deep furrows etched across their foreheads, with Tomas even beginning to bleed from his nose. Knowing there was no alternative, you fought back a fresh wave of tears, though they continued to betray your resolve. “All right,” you sniffed, quickly dabbing your eyes to dry the tears, lifting your chin to meet Liu Kang’s gaze once more. “Do it quickly, please.”

“Liu Kang!” Kuai Liang shouted, trying to launch the fireballs that appeared in both his hands but failing because of some kind of invisible wall that forced him to stay still. “Don’t you dare hurt her!”

“Get away from her!” Bi-Han said furiously. “I swear, if you touch her, I’ll fucking kill you!”

“No, you won’t hurt him.” In as soft a voice as possible, the second command poured from your lips. “This is my last plea to you, please don’t hurt anyone.” Your gaze turned to Sektor, who caught your wordless request. With silent steps, his head tilted to the ground, he approached, took out the hunting knife from the scabbard at his waist, and handed it to Liu Kang.

“No!” Tomas struggled on the spot, shouting, trying every way to break free from the order that was suppressing him. It destroyed you to feel the desperation in his voice. “No, Sektor, stop! Lord Liu Kang, don’t do this. Please!”

“Place your hand on the book. I know it will hurt you, but I will make it as quick and light as possible,” Liu Kang said, falling deaf to the screams behind him. However, there was a weight in his voice that made him seem more mature than he was. You did what he said, taking strength from the gentle expression on his face to keep you calm. A sizzle rose up in your flesh. You bit your lower lip and held yourself back from squealing in pain. You were going to handle this quietly; you were going to stand strong for them.

‘’Repeat after me: as the keeper of this book, I offer a pact. I unbind Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas from the Lin Kuei Clan, the chains that tether them to this book, in exchange for the sacrifice of my own life. From this moment onward, they shall walk free from this curse. My blood and my life shall seal these words.’’

After you echoed his words, despite the screams and chaos around you, Liu Kang delivered the first stab with the knife from Sektor. When the blade pierced under your ribs, you gasped sharply. The pain was more sudden and searing than you had anticipated. Your balance wavered, and the burning pain in your hand seemed insignificant compared to the deep cut now bleeding beneath your ribs. As your misty gaze fell on the book under your hand, you saw the length of the cut forming there.

“Stop! By the elder gods, please stop! Bi-Han, brother, stop them!” Tomas’s desperate cries rang in your ears. Turning your head to him, you murmured in a voice hoping to comfort him.

“It doesn’t hurt, I swear.” Tomas’s expression shattered, his gray eyes shining with unshed tears, making him look younger and more vulnerable than ever. “It’s okay, everything will be okay.”

When Liu Kang raised his hand for the second blow, you closed your eyes. At that moment, Bi-Han’s furious, despairing voice cut through the air, filled with deadly determination.

“Liu Kang, she’s innocent! Stop it now, or I swear to you—No!” Bi-Han’s voice rang out as the knife plunged into your stomach. Your knees buckled, and you collapsed to the ground, but you kept your hand on the book despite the pain. Your hand went numb, whether from the pain or from the nerves being destroyed, you couldn’t tell. Everything had become a big ball of agony. The metallic taste of blood rose in your throat, filling your mouth. You coughed to avoid choking, and blood splattered around, some of it flowing down your lips.

‘’It’s okay… It… Doesn’t hurt.’’ You managed to murmur, the words feeling foreign on your tongue. Your lips felt numb, as if disconnected from your voice, and your tongue seemed to weigh heavy in your mouth.

“Don’t lift the curse, stop!” Kuai Liang’s cries were muffled by the pounding in your ears. Everything around you blurred into a chaotic whirl of colors and sounds, like trying to focus underwater. Each breath was a struggle, a battle against an unseen weight pressing down on your chest. Despite the pain, you clung to consciousness, fighting to stay present amidst the overwhelming haze of approaching death. “Don’t take her away from us. Please, Liu Kang, stop this madness! Let the curse stay, we want it back. Give it back—Just stop!’’

Liu Kang didn’t stop. As he lowered the knife for the third time, aiming for your heart, you felt a deep slit open in the cover of the book under your hand. Despite the excruciating pain, a weak smile formed on your face as you realized the curse had finally been lifted. It was over. They were free now. You could feel the pressure of the curse lifting, and you knew they must have felt it too. As blood continued to rise from your throat, flowing relentlessly from your lips like a crimson cascade, Liu Kang hesitated before withdrawing the knife, gently lowering you to the ground. Numbness crept through your body like tendrils of frost, slowly engulfing your senses. The pain, once sharp and all-consuming, now ebbed away like a receding tide, leaving behind a dull ache. As your vision blurred and darkness encroached, you could barely discern the outlines of three figures, their forms wavering like shadows in the fading light.

You tried to talk. To say that it doesn’t hurt, you’re glad that you finally lifted the curse and set them free, to say that you loved them with all of your heart even words cannot describe how you felt for them. But the words tumbled meaninglessly from your lips, your tongue felt too heavy and it became increasingly difficult to breathe.

“Shhh, don’t talk. We will save you, qīn’ài. Everything’s going to be fine.”

You felt a hand on top of your head, the gentle caress tracing soothing circles. It was Kuai Liang, you surmised from the familiar touch. His fingers moved with care, each stroke bringing a fleeting warmth that chased away a fraction of the cold surrounding you. Then, a sudden pressure on your wounds jolted you, eliciting a sharp whimper that escaped your lips.

‘’You foolish, stubborn woman! We won’t let you go, did you hear me? Don’t you dare give up on us now. I’ll make your life hell after the act you pulled.”

Bi-Han’s words echoed in your ears. Despite the harshness of his tone, you detected the underlying concern beneath his façade, acknowledging the conflict in his emotions. Each breath became more labored, and you wished desperately to convey your remorse to them. But deep down, you knew that if faced with the same choice again, you would make it without hesitation. Because your love for them outweighed everything else. Yet, as another cough wracked your body, you realized that words were futile. Numbness enveloped you completely, and the chill in the air seeped into your bones, causing you to shiver uncontrollably. You surrendered to the encroaching darkness, unable to resist its pull.

Your heart beat weakly one last time, then stopped completely.

***

Author’s Note: My apologies for the cliffhanger! But I’ve already started writing the next chapter, so you won’t have to wait too long again unless something important comes up. Also, I’ve decided to turn this into a series, as I have a couple of ideas brewing. If you have any suggestions or ideas, feel free to share them with me on my blog. If I find them interesting or relevant to the story, I’ll incorporate them into it and give you credit.✨

[lordarsonizzzzt]

lonely birthday (pt1)

so, the bear is for smoke and the tiger for kuai liang. Bi Han misses his brothers dearly and it hits more when it's his birthday- After all, no one dares to talk to the grandmaster, not even to wish him a happy birthday...

He bought some store made cake, and he ate a piece bitterly... the taste isn't as sweet as the cakes Smoke used to bake, the alcohol doesn't taste as nice as it used to taste when he drank with Kuai Liang.

The room feels oddly empty without his family.

If you read this far PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE REBLOG PLEASE PLEASE I LOVE IT WHEN PEOPLE REBLOG WITH SILLY TAGS, SILLY EVERYTHING PLEASE IT MEANS A LOT

[nathabat]

Can you write something about the reader having secret feelings for Kuai Liang but gets heartbroken when he chooses Harumi and eventually moves on in a committed relationship with Smoke?

sure thing anon <3 I struggled formatting this but I hope it's to your liking!

✰ content: ## SFW, angst (unrequited feelings/lack of communication tbh, pining), GN!reader with you/your pronouns used. Somewhat proofread but I could've missed some stuff

Maybe it was Bi-Han's betrayal that had forced Kuai Liang closer to you. Just for a short time, as the weight of responsibility tugged and ebbed in the corners of his mind as he tried desperately to keep himself together for Tomas's sake until he figured something else out. The Lin Kuei, torn from his hold just like that. And he had begged and fought all his life, as far back as he could remember. Both with his Brother and Father at times like he was sinking his teeth into the reigns to keep it all together. An attempt that frayed like an old worn rope under his weight the second Shang Tsung sung that song of deception- and Bi-Han was all to eager to snap his hungry maw at the propositions he offered.

Even before that point you knew that fluttery feeling that swarmed in your chest around the revered Scorpion wasn't right, even as it flared and reared its once doormat head the second he sought you. Just as a friend, uttering and rambling until the tangles and snares in his mind started to loose.

Only for yours to take on the excess he shed. It was a simmering boil at the back of your mind that you kept a lid on, for his own sake rather than yours.

You couldn't risk hurting him more, could you? What friend would you be if you admitted to such a deep rooted affection in the midst of his worst time?

So you bit your tongue. Even as your hand soothed up and down his tensed back, easing Kuai Liang's bunched up shoulders until you heard that familiar sigh- heaving from his lips as he melted under your words and touch alike. It felt wrong doing this, even as it helped him. The pot in your mind roared, spilling out at the rim as a smile instinctively forced its way to your lips as he thanked you.

"You have done more for me than I could realistically pay back."

Kuai Liang would whisper, and even behind the bandaging across his features you could feel the softness in the depths of the brown hues that welcomed you nonetheless. You stammered your response, brushing him off with a light nervous laughter that danced off your lips like a melody, praying to not give yourself away as he took your hand in his.

His hand was worn and heavy, power underlying his movements as his fingers gently squeezed around yours like you were made of the gentlest of breezes he didn't want to release. Until you forced yourself to pull away, wishing him a good night before stepping quickly away.

That night was still fresh in your mind as he sought you out. Time and time again, whether the sun be in the sky or the waxy moon. And Gods, did it kill you inside. The rolling boil more like a parasite now, if it could even change its shape. Gnawing at your guts and snarling to you, eating you damn near alive. You couldn't shut him out now though, not when he and Tomas credited your support to what pushed them both to keep chasing their futures in this harsh world.

And to eventually fight back against Bi-Han, of course. While that was leaps and bounds in the future, the progress made was steady.

Only made quicker by Kuai Liang's recruitment of Harumi. The tales you had heard of her were long and winding- it was just suspicions at first, teasing between the brothers playing in your mind the entire morning until she arrived, smiling and greeting Kuai Liang like an old friend.

Tomas was the only one to notice how you almost turned green. Not from envy, but rather nausea. His own hands were gentle and careful as he helped escort you away, bowing his head to his brother and his female companion with some excuse as he tugged you away.

And things moved much faster after that. The Shirai Ryu was off the ground thanks to Harumi, with Kuai Liang quick to take up most duties. Only with her guidance.

Nights he'd come to you for advice were traded for nights you could hear their voices in his quarters, laughing and then muffled. Tomas couldn't guess what was wrong, quick to believe you when you recounted your stressful days to his empathetic ears. He was by your side through it all, your rock even if he didn't know it. Things you remember doing for Kuai Liang were suddenly things Tomas would do for you in a heartbeat, but he went above and beyond.

His hand gentle on your waist as he took you out early to watch the sun, insisting the crisp air would get you out of another steep episode that still haunted you even a year later. Picking flowers through the fields with you, chattering of anything that popped into his mind just to keep you distracted- or to steal your attention all for himself. He wouldn't tell you which it was now.

His fingers nimble and strong as he showed you how to braid blades of grass and flowers together, or how to make a press of a small flower for you to keep nestled between the pages of a book somewhere, even if you're not much of a reader. With countless days like this, it's no wonder it became so easy to move on.

With Tomas all to happy to welcome your company everyday you wished to be with him. Whether it be training initiates or sparring, or even going to the market for supplies. The most boring mundane things became easy with him, soothing what ache remained beneath your ribs.

While pain never fully leaves, you found ways to make room for it amidst everything else. Your duties, your connections, all of it. It just became another facet of your personhood. A part he may not know, but one Tomas was happy to kiss and adore with the rest of you.

Even though he did tend to hold his breath the times you'd get close to him, leaning over to watch him braid the flowers together even if you had seen it thousands of times by now. Why? Well... It would be lying to say it isn't fun watching him become so clumsy, accidentally trapping his finger within the leaves when he gets distracted by the sounds of you just breathing beside him.

Even as you teased him just a little, he still enjoyed you. Trailed you like a lost dog at times, sure, but it was routine.

As was sneaking out to the courtyard when you found him awake and unable to sleep, staring up at the endless sky. The nights were known to be brisk though, chilly at best and freezing at worst.

That's okay. Because Tomas would shield you, strong arm securing you against his warm side as he pulled you in. His heart thumped under your ear, steady and quick.

But you were warm, comfortable, and had a nice view. Even if that view was his flushing face, Tomas didn't mind. The night was only broken by the kiss you two shared, shined on by the stars hanging above your bodies, the air between you filled with the sounds of breaths and laughter as you broke apart.

"I love you."

He was the first to say it, blurting it out with the weight of his chest behind it, blinking at you as your expression shifted. He watched the emotions at play, clear in your eyes even as you glanced away and as your throat ran dry. Words you never thought you'd say to anyone else were quick to expel from yourself without much input from your still racing mind, and yet... It felt right. To love and finally be loved.

"I love you too, Tomas."

☄. *. ⋆

[n3ptoonz]

Could you do some mk Headcanons (anyone you feel motivated to write about) where their meet the dark version of reader from Dark!Shang Tsung’s timeline, maybe their conflicted because their version of the reader died

randomly selected mk1 character hcs: how kitana, kenshi, mileena, scorpion, li mei, and shang tsung react to the version of their s/o's dark clone post death

this is creative asf ty anon 🫢

warnings: canon typical violence and angst that's about it (gonna hit y'all with the punk tactics)

the dialogue portions are meant to be read in the context of before you and character fight

enjoy!

Kitana

When you appeared in her line of vision, she was immediately heartbroken. She couldn't believe her late partner came back like this after so many years

You died sacrificing yourself for her to live in this timeline. you worked for the royal family for all these years, just to have to take an arrow to the chest due to an assassination attempt

Your skin now had cracks all over it and your eyes glowed red, standing by dark shang tsung's side with a mocking smirk behind your mask. Kitana could barely recognize you and you were only intrigued that she wasn't dead in this timeline

Kitana looked at you with tears in her eyes. The same person who took an arrow so she could live on. She had already taken out clones that looked like her, hell even ones that looked like her own sister and mother. Second pain to that was seeing you approach her with mischievous and evil intent.

"You...gave your life for me...and now you live on as an evil pawn for a man like Shang Tsung?"

"I did? What an idiot. In my timeline, I'm the one who assassinated you, and I still have no remorse."

Kenshi Takahashi

Post losing his eyesight, he could only ever think about how he lost you. How he wasn't quick enough in getting you out of being involved with the Yakuza. How he was one step behind

You died a brutal death simply because you were his partner, and they couldn't risk leaving you alive to tell the story of them torturing you for information, so they took care of it themselves to send a message. And boy, did it send a message

So now, in dark Shang Tsung's timeline, you are resentful of him and want your revenge. However, it was very conflicting for Kenshi: Did he take this version of you out now because he knows you don't actually feel like this? Or...die by your clone's hands to be reunited with the love of his life?

Kenshi stood before you with Sento in hand, but frozen in place. The sound of your voice, the complete change in your demeanor, and even down to how you used to walk (he always knew when you were coming because of the way your footsteps sounded), he was utterly devastated. He only had himself to blame for this moment in time.

"I'm...I'm sorry I wasn't there for you. It's all my fault."

"No need to apologize, past love, I took you out in my timeline, now I've come to finish the job in yours."

Mileena

You died in Mileena's arms. How? Well, you were a little too late in grabbing the serum that calms her down and she went crazy on the closest person to her, literally

Upon barely clinging onto dear life you were able to inject her, but you had lost too much blood. So by the time she came to you were gone. She hadn't cried and wailed this much since her father

Now, as she pointed her Sai at your neck, she didn't know what to do. Even if she turned right now, she couldn't handle killing you in the same exact way two times in a row. Even if evil you was trying to kill her

Mileena breathed heavily as she could feel herself turning, desperately trying to stop herself from mauling you to death. But the way you taunted her made half of her want to turn even quicker, knowing full well this is the dark version of you spewing nonsense to piss her off.

"Come on, Empress, turn. Rip my face off like you did before."

"I don't want to...but if my hand is forced, so be it!"

Scorpion

You guessed it. The classic partner and son loss. You fought tirelessly to defend your home and the Shirai Ryu, but it just wasn't enough. Kuai was also just one step too late

Once he got to you, there lied your lifeless body clutching your son in your arms with a sword through your back. If he just hadn't gone on that mission that day when you said you were worried of being attacked...

Now, the dark version of you relished in the pain and sorrow in his eyes. In your timeline, he was the one that died and you trained your son to be a killing machine

Scorpion's head hung low upon hearing what you've done in your timeline. All this time he promised if he could just see you again, he would apologize profusely and even give his own life for you to come back. But looking at you now, seeing you again with an evil smile and empty eyes you've never worn before made him want to take it all back.

"Want to know something funny? You were the one that died in front of me, and I got our son to do it."

"Training Satoshi to be a killing machine is a sin that not even hellfire can take care of."

Li Mei

You died while on a mission in Li Mei's place to find and gather information that would be of use to the royal house and their next moves on taking down a clan that was after it

Li Mei hasn't properly recovered since. Even to the point where she'll go on solo missions just to avoid anybody else getting hurt. She took extra shifts and extended her personal training time just to keep her mind, but at the end of the day she still crumbled

Now the evil version of you isn't even in the Sun Do. In fact, you actively try to take them down every chance you get just to get to the Li Mei in your timeline--which worked

Li Mei took a fighting stance as soon as you showed up. A piece of her heart broke at the thought of intentionally having to hurt you, but she knew you were long gone now with no shot of saving grace. You dangled your weapon in front of her and showed not one sign of fear.

"You were an esteemed member of the Sun Do, and now you are proudly a disgrace."

"I'll do it again one thousand times over and you can't stop me."

Shang Tsung

Surprisingly, he didn't betray you or kill you himself. You captured the sorcerer's heart, and that was the problem. His followers didn't like how much attention you got, so they formed an organization and took you out when they followed you on a mission

Since then he was on a rampage. He wreaked as much havoc as he could, convinced it was some outside source that held something against him. He only got stronger with anger and deep rooted sadness he couldn't process

Now you blamed him for letting you die when he could've prevented it. Hell, sometimes you felt like it was his idea and his way of getting rid of you as if you were a hindrance to his plans

Shang Tsung couldn't believe his eyes. You, who started walking towards him after you linked arms with his own dark clone. Every emotion he had ever felt bubbled to the surface the second he saw your face. Hurt, anger, sorrow, but mostly confusion. However, knowing the kind of man Shang Tsung was, he wouldn't think twice to rid of your evil clone for good.

"Whoever took you from me will pay, but I will kill you myself before I die by your tainted hands."

"Aw, how the evil sorcerer calls the dark soul 'tainted'"

-

thank you for reading! man this was SOMETHING but it was fun i don't typically write angst

[lament4piligrim]

Frozen heart knows no pain

Arranged marriage AU, pre-MK1

Angst, No Comfort (at the beginning), Hate/Love, Jealousy

Before and after marriage Bi Han is in relationship

Brothers do love his partner (not legitimate wife, but they respect her)

Bi Han ignores (or try) his wife, while his partner tries at least befriend her

Wife is an excellent healer, but she hides her true powers because of an accident

Wife does not interfere in the relationship and avoids any contact with Bi Han, his partner and brothers

Her bestfriend is Sector

Character names are fictional, you can use your own

Prologue

If someone asked Bi-Han what, or rather who, he hated most in the world, he would have answered without a second thought: his own father.

He hid his hatred deep inside him, behind a mask of cool indifference, promising himself and his mother that none of his family would notice it. At least not until the right moment.

The eldest heir sought to become an unique Grandmaster, one that had never before existed in Lin Kuei. He spared neither himself, nor his brothers, nor his loyal warriors - since he was assigned to keep an eye on trainings, he toughened them up to bring out the most resilient and strongest who would become the backbone of his clan in the future.

The first benefits he tasted a few years later, when his mother's death and his father's cold "I'm sorry" didn't haunt him at night.

When the ice in his heart was melted by the warrior in whose eyes he saw stars and whose tinkling laughter captivated his mind.

She had joined Lin Kuei willingly, loving martial arts with all her heart that she had to run away from home because of her parents' prohibitions. She probably wanted to prove to herself and the world that she could protect herself and those she loved, that she was worthy of something more than just a young girl who was stuck in the village for good.

Bi Han thought that such a fragile and insolent girl had no place in Lin Kuei. She dared to contradict the words of the eldest heir and even more so to argue with him, finding it amusing. Not surprisingly, she quickly found favour with Tomas and Kuai Liang. Together, they never missed a moment to mock him. It was annoying as hell.

However, Bi Han couldn't help but notice the wounds and bruises on the girl's arms. The results of hard work and determination. The first thing he realised as he began to look at the girl differently.

He saw the way she agonised her body, balling her fists into bloody knuckles and clenching her teeth tightly as she broke bones. Saw her rise up, unwilling to admit defeat in practice fights. Saw her eyes shine with excitement when she would take down her opponent and then happily help him back to his feet with a satisfied smile. Her smile was like the sun that warmed on spring evenings.

And Bi Han realised that he was deeply in love with her.

He tried to change, to become more open… to let her into his world, to shield her from evil, to protect her at all costs. Only for her to smile at him, not expecting him to blame or criticise her.

He truly felt happy when she kissed him first. Shyly and awkwardly, standing on tiptoe and putting her hands on his broad shoulders. Her face was crimson with embarrassment, and yet she couldn't stop smiling foolishly, as if she had received the most precious gift.

It took a few more years before the whole of Lin Kuei was aware of the relationship between Bi Han and the fox (as they nicknamed the girl for her playful nature). Both weren't shy about showing how much they loved each other, and sometimes fought in public if they saw each other in strangers' company trying to flirt with them. Fox could even throw a tantrum, but Bi Han was skilfully able to suppress it by not letting the girl go all night.

His relationship with his brothers improved, thanks to her. They began to spend more time together, and Kuai Liang thanked fate for giving them Mingzhu.

The Lin Kuei warriors thought that nothing would shake this strong alliance. Even those who disliked Mingzhu didn't doubt it.

Things began to crumble when Grandmaster made the decision to marry Bi Han to the daughter of an important and close ally of the Lin Kuei.

Chapter 1

P.S. Probably I'd publish it in AO3. As I said, you can use your names for characters, or even put yourself in their place

[dragynkeep]

Where's Bi-Han?

[sleeperzzz105]

I was originally going to draw them in bed together when they said that, but I don't think yall are ready for that

[sharkl-e]

MK1 x VOCALOID — Kuai Liang + Bihan & Identity by kanaria

this one was so fun to do AAAAAAAA just a bit of angst in this new art series hehehhff :333 also some close ups under the cut <3!

i esp love how i did the dagger and the pin— honest to god i have to thank my friend for the idea bc it just fits PERFECTLY UGH

[calviyv]

i need subscorp so bad. and by that i don't mean tender old men yaoi. i need them toxic yaoi. i need angst, blood and gay sex. pining and misunderstandings i want them to suffer and hurt eachother (also have rough gay sex)

[restinslices]

Hello! I just read your recent post on the lin Kuei trio trying to bring back the reader's memories after it has been tainted and was wondering if you could do part 2 where the trio finally succeeded in restoring the reader's memories?

I haven’t seen those movies in awhile but I googled it and apparently only therapy can help? I went off what Google said. No gifs cause I got lazy. I ain’t even finna lie to you

Bi-Han doesn't show it, but he's in so much pain 

It's not because everytime you see him, you try to kill him 

If hating him for the rest of your life meant that you'd be happy, he'd take it 

But you're not happy. It's not a bad breakup and you hate him but at least you're living life. No. You have insane PTSD from the torture you endured 

When he's told that the only way to help you is therapy, he's a tad bit irritated 

Therapy takes too long. He wishes he could fight some enemies, use some magic, then boom. Everything's okay 

Speaking of those enemies though, he's definitely tracking them down and killing them 

He finds it difficult to watch your therapy sessions so he distracts himself with duties 

After a few failed tests, you're finally able to be in the same room as him without trying to kill him 

When he sees you look at him with love instead of hatred, all his tension is released 

Your memories are still a little wonky but you're healed enough to know that they're manipulated 

He's more than happy to tell you what really happened and make new memories with you 

He's more soft afterwards because he's afraid of triggering you 

It takes a lot of work but he's willing to do all of it if it means you'll be okay with him holding you again 

Seeing you be so terrified of him is like a living nightmare 

It's such a difficult situation because there's no easy way to help you 

It's not like a broken bone. You've been made to fear him and your memories are tainted

Therapy is the only thing that can help you 

It takes a while, and he hates it 

He's told to avoid face to face contact with you during your recovery 

So he watches you sneakily 

He watches you rediscover your memories day by day

When you ask to see him, he's a bit nervous, but he knows that that means progress has been made 

He lets you set the pace of the conversation 

Whenever there's silence, he doesn't try to fill it. He knows you need the time to gather your thoughts 

Your hand is shaky when you reach for him. He wants to try and close the space but he doesn't. He lets you take your time reaching for his hand 

When you finally touch it feels like weights have been lifted off his shoulders 

You're not 100% healed but you're making great progress. You being able to stand being around him is such a huge thing to him 

He helps you whenever you get confused and is extremely patient with you 

Definitely believes you'll make a full recovery 

After the first encounter and you trying to kill him, nobody could blame him for becoming depressed 

You were extremely volatile towards him 

Anytime you saw him you immediately tried to attack him 

When he's told therapy is the only thing that can help you, he wants to be hopeful but it's hard to 

Therapy takes time and there's no guarantee it'll even work 

He sends you gifts during your recovery. Sometimes he won't sign it so you're more willing to accept it 

Exposure therapy exhausts him, but he keeps doing it for you 

One day though your demeanor is different 

You don't rush at him or tell him to get out 

You're quiet and still. He lets the silence stay 

“I don't know what's real and what's not anymore”

“You're trying” he'd say. “That's all that matters. And I'll help you”

It gets quiet again 

You walk over to him, and instead of attacking him, you pull him into a tight embrace 

It takes him a moment to understand what's happening. Once he does, he hugs you back 

“You loved me. Real or fake?”

“I love you, and it's all real”

You two just stay like that for a while. He has no idea what's going on in your head, but in his he's ecstatic 

There was hope. As long as there was a hope, even a sliver of it, he wouldn't give up on you 

He stays by your side the entire time. Watching you slowly but surely go out of your way to be around him excites him 

He has tons of pictures and he shows you them and explains what happened whenever you get confused 

He's delighted to have you back 

[tiredfox64]

You're Odio sorry on Kuai Liang x reader gave me feels bc I know the feeling of watching someone you have feelings for love someone else, leaving you to wonder what you could've done better to receive their love.

You should do a part 2 where reader finally finds love again and moves on with someone else (Smoke, Syzoth, Kenshi, etc.) which awakens something in Kuai Liang that made him realize that he also loves you but now he must live with his choices?

Recházame

Prior notes: WOAH! Did not expect someone to request something! I’m glad you enjoyed it (I think I hope i didn’t awaken something painful)! Sorry I am posting this late I had classes before and they all have a no technology policy :P so I could not sneak in more work. But I hope this is what you wanted I’m sorry if it isn’t I tried!

Pairing: Tomas x Gn Reader, Kuai Liang

Warnings ‼️: More Angst I fear.

Heartbreak can feel like an eternity. Watching someone you loved for so long be wedded to another. You’re left wondering what you could have done differently. And right now you were sulking in your quarters again with the same thing playing over and over in your head. Seeing Kuai Liang holding and kissing Harumi on their wedding day.

Your sulking was interrupted when you heard a knock on the door. What now?

“Who is it?” You answered back in a strained voice.

“It’s me, grandmaster. You have a visitor. It’s…Tomas.” Your second-in-command answered back.

Your heart stopped beating for a second. Why would Tomas be coming over?

“Bring him in.” You said before wiping your tears away.

They opened the door to let Tomas in. He walked in with a soft expression, as if not to scare you away from talking to him. He had a little box with him. A gift for you. If Kuai Liang couldn’t get close to you maybe Tomas could.

“Hello…grandmaster.” He struggled to call you that. You were his friend but he found it best to stay professional right now.

“Please, Tomas, we are friends. No need for such things.”

Tomas nodded before bringing his attention back to the gift in his hand.

“Oh, I have a gift for you. It’s from Kuai Liang. He said it was-“ He was quickly cut off when you swiped the gift out of his hands, knocking it to the ground.

You really surprised Tomas with that. Immediately you got frustrated with yourself. You cursed yourself for being aggressive with him as he wasn’t the one you hated. He’s innocent in all this and you can’t take it out on him. You took his hand into yours to apologize.

“I-I’m so sorry, Tomas. I don’t know what has gotten into me. Please…forgive me.” You started to silently weep.

Tomas just looked at you with confusion but realized you were in pain. He couldn’t tell where exactly but you were suffering. He pulled you in close and hugged you tight. His hands ran through your hair and he squeezed you with his big, strong arms. The floodgates opened and you started to cry hard. Tomas never pulled back but instead comforted you. And it stayed like that for a while. The rest of the night actually. He made you lie back down in your bed and comforted you to sleep. You cried yourself to sleep in his arms. That was the most peaceful rest you had gotten in a long while. And that’s when the healing process started.

══💤══╡°˖✧🦊✧˖°╞══💤══

Every week whenever Tomas could he would visit you and your clan. Every time he would ask how you were doing and each time you slowly got better. It was awkward at first because you felt bad for falling asleep in his arms. He didn’t mind at all, it was nice for him as well.

You managed to confess to Tomas that you had feelings for Kuai Liang for the longest time and seeing him with Harumi broke you. Tomas never judged. He understood how love can hurt someone. Make their heart that once held love be corrupted with hate. Without knowing it he was helping to fix your once loving heart.

You two would talk from day to night, night to day. You let your feelings out which was what you should have been doing in the first place. You were just scared to be vulnerable in front of your clan as they needed a strong leader. But Tomas was there to listen to you and never judge what you had to say. All the negative emotions left your body and soon your body was filled with love again. Love not for Kuai Liang but for Tomas. And his heart filled up with love for you.

Your clan was more welcoming to him than they were with Kuai Liang. He made their grandmaster whole again. You smiled more. You laughed more. You even apologized to your clan for being negative which they quickly forgave you. They just want you to be happy now.

It was awkward at first because you both didn’t know how to confess it to each other. You guys ain’t experts in this. But you had to be the brave one and say something. On a night where you two were in your room alone you spoke up.

“Listen, Tomas, I want to thank you again for helping me out. I was in a really bad place and I thought I’d never get out of it.” You said.

“Of course! How could I leave someone as special as you to suffer? I would hate for someone like you to stop being so sweet, precious, dare I say even lovable.” He chuckled softly before placing his hand on top of yours.

Well if that ain’t flirting you don’t know what Tomas was doing. What you do know is that it made your heart flutter and your cheeks burn once again. The hate is gone. There is love once more in you.

You struggled to get the words out. There was no right or wrong way to say how you felt. Words can’t express it but actions could. That’s why you practically threw yourself at Tomas. He was surprised by what you did but before he could ask what was wrong, he felt your lips against his. It was clear as the night sky what this was about. Tomas wanted the same thing so he kissed you back. There was passion and love between you that it felt like he was actually meant for you. It was never Kuai Liang. It was Tomas. Your heart belongs to him now. How sweet of an ending.

Except it isn’t. You may have forgotten Kuai Liang but he never forgot you.

══💤══╡°˖✧🦊✧˖°╞══💤══

Kuai Liang already suspected something was wrong. Tomas was keeping secrets. Even when Kuai Liang sent Tomas over to talk to you he acted like nothing happened when that wasn’t the truth. There were nights where Tomas wasn’t in his bed and would show back up in the morning as if it was all normal. It only got worse after the night you and Tomas kissed. Kuai Liang had no clue where he was going.

The answer hit him like a bullet one night.

Kuai Liang was making sure the Shirai Ryu grounds were safe. He was lost in thought before looking up to the full moon. His eyes widened when he saw something unusual. A silhouette that looked like you. No, not a silhouette, it was you! You were there talking to Tomas.

Kuai Liang was about to call out to you. Say how happy he was to see his best friend again. How he has been fighting to see you again after his wedding. Wonder why you ever turned nasty. But he stopped once he saw something he would never imagine would happen.

He watched as you embraced Tomas and kissed him in the moonlight. Tomas’ hands wrapped around your waist and pulled you close. This couldn’t be right. His brother and his best friend…why is he feeling this way.

Kuai Liang never felt something so painful in his heart. Not even when Bi-Han admitted that he let their father die was this pain in his heart so great. It was a mixture of anger, sadness, and even disgust. Seeing his own brother hide the fact that he was seeing you all this time. How his lips were on yours and his arms were wrapped around you. This had to be some sort of joke. What a sick joke if it was one.

He couldn’t speak. He just stared at you and Tomas making out in front of him. He felt such strange urges. To take you away from his brother right this instant. To push his brother away from you. To yell at you about what you were doing. He didn’t even realize he was grinding his teeth. He just had to walk away at this point.

Even when Kuai Liang went back to the Shirai Ryu temple there was this negative energy going around. A man who never raged like a forest fire was randomly bursting into flames. Patches of fire danced across his skin as he made his way back to his bedroom. Even Harumi was unsure what was happening to her husband. He wasn’t saying a word.

The other clansmen notified Tomas of what was going on with his brother. Even the young Hanzo was confused by the grandmaster’s rage. He went to Kuai Liang’s room which Harumi let him in, leaving the two men to themselves.

“What’s the matter? Why are you bursting into flames.” He asked with concern.

“When were you going to tell me you two were seeing each other? Do you find it right to hide such secrets from your brother.” Kuai Liang questioned with such a cold tone that it contrasted with his fiery outbursts.

Tomas froze up. That’s why he is reacting like that? He knew it was wrong to hide what was going on but he was simply protecting you. You were the one who was hurting the most to the point you changed in a negative way.

“I would have told you when they were ready.” Tomas responded.

“I sent you over to speak to them. I sent a gift. What ever happened to the gift, huh?!”

“They didn’t want it! That doesn’t mean they hate you. I’ve been helping them-“

“Kissing is helping? The man I trusted the most goes around kissing someone I love as if you truly love them.” Kuai Liang didn’t even realize what he said, but Tomas did. That’s why he grabbed his brother by the arms.

“I do love them! And your love belongs to your wife, remember?” Tomas responded which made Kuai Liang’s blood run cold.

That’s right. His wife Harumi. The one he ran to in a time of need as if she were the only option. Never even thinking of you as an option. And now he wants to see you as an option? When someone else has your heart and healed it?

Tomas let go of his arms before walking out of the room. That whole confrontation only fanned the fires and Kuai Liang is left to his own mind. A mind that festered with the thought of what you and Tomas were doing all this time.

Did he kiss you all the time? Does he hold you close? Was he with you on those nights when Kuai Liang couldn’t find them. Where had his lips been? Was Tomas your first in bed!? Oh heavens! He couldn’t stand the thought of that being true.

Tomas could never treat you right. He could never kiss you in such a way that would make you giggle or blush instantly. He could never make you smile just by picking you up and twirling you around. His hands could never make you feel wonderful things in the dead of night before caressing you to sleep. Kuai Liang felt like the only person who could ever do that was…him.

What was wrong with him? He’s married now. You’re in a relationship. This is just wrong. It’s all gone wrong.

He loves Harumi, he would never think about being unfaithful. But it was only now that he realized he loves another. It was you.

Kuai Liang could never rip you away from Tomas. He’s seen that there is chemistry between you and him. It would be wrong of you to be unfaithful as well. So what can be done? Well, you must reject each other. You can’t accept each other’s love. Especially now when your love for him may be gone already. It hurts but he must accept the pain. If he carried on with it he will end up suffering, and in a way so will you.

You love another, no more hatred. Kuai Liang will have to live with his decision. He wasn’t wrong or right. Neither were you. It’s just how love works.

After notes: Once again sorry if this ain’t what you wanted, I did my best. I’m not the best at angst for this was my first go. I didn’t even have a part two in mind but my brain went into overdrive when I saw the idea. Anyways thanks for the request! Adiós!

[charlotte-family-apologist]

Since y’all really like it here’s my headcanons on opera singer Bi-Han!

Became obsessed with Chinese opera at the ripe age of three and decided that’s what he wanted to do with his life.

Kuai Liang was scared of Chinese opera as a child.

His mother had a friend who worked in an opera house and she was more than happy to give him lessons.

Sings almost exclusively in Chinese.

When he was kidnapped by the Lin Kuei they banned him from singing, but he stubbornly continued to practice when he had time on solo missions. Seeing it as his own act of rebellion.

Has a surprisingly high signing voice (maybe soprano? Kinda hard to tell since he has a deep voice) and incredible vocal range.

Can crack glass with his voice and is insanely proud of it.

When Hanzo tore his head off his vocal cords were torn to shit, giving his voice as Noob a scratchy and strained quality to it.

His ability to sing was impacted heavily by his death and resurrection. He struggles to hold and hit high notes without devolving into coughing fits, getting a sore throat, and/or losing his voice for hours to days at a time. But if Bi-Han’s anything, it’s stubborn so he continues to “build up his tolerance”.

The mind control placed on him as Noob didn’t allow him to indulge in hobbies but he did find himself subconsciously falling back into old habits and singing when he’s alone. Causing him to gain a reputation as a “siren”. It was said if you can hear him you’re already dead.

His clones can’t talk but he does use them as back up vocals.

After being freed (because I’m going off he’s still Noob physically but Bi-Han mentally) he starts to wander through realms and his reputation grows.

He became a cryptid in Earthrealm and has been posted hundreds of times on paranormal forums. Had a buzzfeed unsolved episode dedicated to him. He was unaware of the attention he garnered but after he realized he became a massive troll.

Kuai Liang, while happy he has his brother back, wishes he would stop singing creepily late at night.

Sareena loves it and melts when he serenades her. Nearly fainted from shock the first time he did it. This man is a hopeless romantic. I will not be changing my mind.

(Not a headcanon but has anyone seen Ride the Cyclone? The Ballad of Jane Doe reminds me of him. And Talia reminds me of Bireena.)

[misthogansnk]

“I will live in you”

Syzoth x fem.Reader

Warning: Angst, death, blood, despair and loss of a loved one

Description: Syzoth's destiny is marked, loss haunts him.

It cost me a lot to try to move on, my new friends, people who supported me and accepted me were a great help to move forward, but she, y/n was a key piece, it took me a whole year to decide to court her or as Johnny says 'ask her on a date', I didn't want to rush anything, and neither did she. She perfectly understood my mourning and my obligations as the new emissary, she was patient, she gave me her friendship, her love, her heart... She was the first hot blood from the land that set foot in Zaterra, to my surprise she was well received, her diplomacy and charisma fell in favor among my people. Although not everyone looked favorably on me, they evidently understood my way of acting. I wasn't introducing them to a simple woman, I was introducing them to my partner.

The relationship blossomed, time helped and we got married. It wasn't long before he gave me the news that would light up my soul: we were having a child. In his womb was the fruit of our love. By then we were living thanks to the kindness of the Empress in her palace. She had indeed become her advisor and best friend, and the news was more than welcome. I had to take care of Y/N, my wife was a great fighter, an innate warrior, although her health was fragile.

I became overprotective in the months that followed, she took care of everything and everyone...but I never took care of her of me.

“Y/n, my love, I have a surprise for you,” my joy made her beautiful smile warm even my soul, “there is one month left until our son is born, so I prepared everything on my recent trip to Zaterra, everything so that be born.” There… come on, I’ll help you pack.” Why did I do that?

"Syzoth, I don't think it is appropriate to go now, my belly is heavy and such a long trip could bring forward the delivery."

I looked at it with disappointment and disgust, my people were looking forward to it, it was a new beginning for everyone. We argued, yes, I hate myself for that every day, every hour, minute or second but she ended up agreeing, she agreed to a damn whim of mine. That same night we left, and damn, she was right. The trip was hectic and our recent argument didn't help, we didn't exchange words, I didn't notice it, I didn't notice her pained face, how her belly was clenching, I deserve the worst. It wasn't until we were almost at my house that she screamed, her water broke, and her contractions took over. We hurried and as soon as we arrived I carried her in my arms, my son would soon be born. My euphoria at the acceptance of my people was so much that I forgot many important things, I forgot about their fragile health, that my people were not used to warm-blooded births, the wisest and most medical, so to speak, They had only heard history or studied books about it.

Your labor lasted 16 hours, I couldn't stop holding her hand, encouraging her, what did I do? But there came a time when I heard you cry, you were beautiful, your features were as perfect as your mother's, I was distracted by your beauty and did not notice the blood that flooded the place. They placed you on her chest and she kissed you on the forehead, looking at you lovingly.

I will remember her words to this day: “Syzoth, promise me that you will love her and protect her, live for her and make her happy, will you promise me my love? I love you and I will always be there for her and you.” Her voice was almost a whisper: "I will always live in you, daughter," then she kissed your forehead again. I was naive, I just said “yes my love”, I smiled and went to get some things for the baby and I was late because I wanted to bring flowers to my wife, what an idiot, it wasn't a promise. , it was a farewell. When I got to the room I only noticed the silence, until I saw you, I saw the blood, it was no use praying, it was no use begging her to just be asleep, I had lost again, she died and I couldn't say goodbye, I couldn't protect her, I failed. The bouquet of flowers that would decorate her room adorned her grave. Your crying put my feet on the ground, but it was not enough. Because of me you didn't know her, you didn't know your mother...

I'm a coward, I know. You are old enough to understand, I am a coward who tells you this through a letter, I am sorry. I promised her that she would save you, and I did, I protected you from me, I love you and I hope that one day you can understand, I don't seek forgiveness because I know that maybe I never deserve it.

Take care of yourself, yes, don't make Kuai Liang or Harumi angry on earth.

With love dad...

[nathabat]

"I swear on it."

word count: 3k+

✰ content: ## SFW, GN!reader (you/your pronouns), brief angst (?) but tons of fluff and comfort. This was a commission for a friend, but I got permission to post it :) enjoy! apologies if formatting is weird

As the days grew colder they also became even shorter, one of the many things Kuai Liang had grown up hating about winter.

Shorter days meant less time spent outside, less time spent with his brothers running around the yard and battling each other with wooden swords.

Bi-Han always flourished in the cold, beating Tomas down faster with swift hits. The wood thunking against the younger brother’s shins and chest until he crumpled against the snowy ground— which always lead to Kuai Liang having to argue with Bi-Han as he dragged Tomas back inside to tend to the blossoming bruises. Blue against his tanned skin, and soon enough shifting to angry shades of red and purples. He hated how the days ended like that but…

Those days felt so distant now. Decades ago, by now. Even thinking that made him feel old. Just the thought made his chest pang with a sense of nostalgia he had become far too familiar with this past week.

The bed felt cold. Or Perhaps it was just the chill in his body, rattling against his ribs with each pump of his heart as Kuai Liang stared up at the wooden beams of the ceiling, sheets and blankets clinging to his form until he kicked them off in favor of the breeze that seeped through the cracks in the window sill. Was it the thoughts of the past that kept him up with the exact moon greeting him, or was it the lack of warmth beside him?

His bleary eyes narrowed until they focused on the empty spot beside him. The faint imprint and smell of his beloved still laced against the bedding, and the hallway light dragged itself under the doorway.

You had gotten up at some point. Perhaps recently, because your pillow was still warm and smelled like your hair. The fragrance soothed the throbbing of nerves that danced along his brow the moment Kuai Liang buried his face into the plush cushion, tensed muscles in his shoulders easing just by a fraction. A fraction enough to allow him a moment of reprieve from the past that haunted him and the ache that settled not just in his chest but over the right side of his face. The wound across his features still burned, even when nestled away from the harsh winds under thick bandages and slathered in a medical salve he could barely even describe the smell of.

His first reaction to the medicine— the crinkling of his nose— had earned a light laugh from you. Blossoming in your lungs to spill from your lips, and suddenly in that moment Kuai Liang had hurt just a little less.

Like he did now, heart thrumming less from anxiety and more from anticipation as the bedroom door creaked open. Oh so carefully, but Kuai wouldn't have cared if you had woken him in the first place.

Your footsteps managed to barely rouse the creaks in the floorboards as you stepped towards the bed, shutting the door behind you with a gentle nudge of your foot before you emptied the contents that filled your hands onto your bedside table.

Only when you glanced up, eager to see your boyfriend still asleep, did you realize not only had he been awake as you snuck back into your shared quarters, but he had stolen your pillow in your absence. With a strong arm looped around it, securing it under his heavy head.

You could only imagine how weary he was.

Such thoughts bubbled to a silence in favor of the imagery in your head of how cat-like he appeared, enough that you almost swore if he had a tail it would be flicking in impatience as he watched the gears in your mind work.

“You're awake?”

You whispered through the darkness. The inquiry earned a rumbling chuckle from Kuai Liang, who stretched and finally released your pillow from his deathly grasp and rolled back over to his side of the bed.

“For a little while, yes.” The heel of his palm rubbed into his uninjured eye, ridding himself of some of the sleepiness that clung to his lashes before his gaze snapped back to you, hand back at his side on the mattress.

“You didn't wake me,” he added before you could question further. Through the blanket of night that settled over your shared space, he still could see the way the corner of your lips twitched into a grateful smile at his assurance even when you hadn't asked for it.

“And you?”

Kuai sat up, leaning his back against his pillow as he felt the mattress dip under your weight. You took a seat on the edge, shifting through whatever items you had brought in with you. He attempted to look around you, but he couldn't make out most of them even with the moonlight’s help.

“I was… Up and down for a while.”

You admitted. In return you could feel his watchful gaze on your back, grazing up and down the expanse of your body. Curiously, you noted. Not leering.

Well, until you felt the warmth of his lips against your nape. A firm hand rested against the small of your back before his fingers danced to trail to your hip, wrapping around the space there as he hummed against your flesh.

“What bothers you, my love?”

He murmured. He could feel the response your body has to his touch, the way you shuddered, mostly in surprise before you relaxed and reclined into his touch like you sought the physical support his hand and kisses offered.

“Nothing,” you exhaled. It wasn't a lie, yet you could still feel his doubt as he huffed out a breath against you and kissed down to your shoulder. Which was thankfully hidden under your pajamas, saving you from the attack of his affection at least for tonight.

“Do I need to swear to you for you to believe me?”

Kuai Liang smirked against you. Even if you couldn't see it, you could almost sense it as his nose nuzzled against the dip of your neck.

“Perhaps. I can't guarantee that will stave off my doubt entirely.”

He remarked back, voice dripping with amusement.

Despite all he had gone through, it seemed you were at the forefront of his mind the most.

Bi-Han would have called you a distraction. Or perhaps even an addiction, something bad for his brother that only served to distract.

Did Father teach you nothing of discipline, Brother?

Words paired with a finger jabbed into Kuai Liang’s chest, yet he wouldn't flinch. He was as steadfast as ever, refusing to back down when it was your name that was laced with such venom. Could no one trust that he knew what was bad or good for him? Did they believe him to have such a clouded mind that they couldn't trust when he fell in love?

He would uphold their Father's traditions until his last breath, he would fight against Bi-Han to uphold those ideals, but he would turn his back the moment it would mean leaving you behind him.

His love for you was pure and burning, whether anyone liked it or not. And you could feel it as he kissed up your jaw to nestle and place a sly one behind your ear, brushing strands of hair out of his way to make his access easier. He felt the way you hummed, like a soft laugh, at his words.

“I swear, nothing is wrong.”

Your words spoke like a soft song that he leaned into, just as he did as you faced him and stroked the bandaged half of his face.

Though he softly flinched under the careful caress of your thumb just the same, eyebrow twitching at the soft throb of the wound underneath. He didn't have to look you in the eyes to see the way your mouth formed a small frown as you retracted your touch— he knew you well enough to guess that you felt a knot of guilt tighten in your throat before you quickly swallowed it down.

“We should change them. The bandages.”

Kuai met your gaze finally at your suggestion and his nostrils flared as he exhaled. This was his least favorite part of the day, or of the healing process in general.

“If we must.”

He responded, reclining back into the pillows. Whatever you had gathered and brought into the room earlier came into view as you placed some on the bed.

Medicines and Bandages. He knew it wasn't all you had brought with you, but he prayed the process needed no more than what lay in front of you now.

“Don't hold your breath this time.”

You offered a light joke. One Kuai Liang almost rolled his eye(s) at.

You had cared for him so meticulously, almost since the mere moment he had gotten this injury. He swore he could feel the blade passing through his skin sometimes, like the day never had ended in the first place, but the medicine… It was far worse.

Or so he had claimed. The smell was so strong it burned his eyes and he almost could taste it in his mouth each time it sunk into his skin, no matter how little you applied or how gently you dabbed it around his injury.

“No promises.”

His jaw briefly flexed as you reached over to him, preparing himself for what he knew came next.

Your fingers were ginger enough when you loosened the bandages from his face, one layer at a time falling free.

The cool air hit the right side of his face, brushing away any warmth that had gathered under the soiled bandages as you discarded them quickly.

It didn't sting, only chilled him partially. He still visibly tensed as he adjusted to the change, his fingers twitching by his side in an urge to press his warm palm against that side of his face and warm it himself.

It wasn't his favorite moment. You caught onto that very easily.

“Scoot closer.”

Just a suggestion. It'd make it easier for you. Maybe that's why he was quick to listen, situating himself closer to your side of the bed. Or maybe it was the way he yearned for your closeness that made him so eager to listen.

Eager. That wasn't a word most would use to describe Kuai Liang. Not even a word that crossed your mind now as you focused on the wound that marred his beautiful face. Stretching from his eyebrow over the lid of his eye and downwards, curving over his cheekbone.

“Is this better?”

He tilted his head towards you a bit more, down closer to your shorter level.

“Very.”

You hummed. A small quirk of his lips suggested he found your response funny in some way or another but he didn't voice it, simply setting his chin into your offered hand.

His lip curled the moment you raised the damp cloth out of the basin, an expression that deepened as you gently dragged it across his skin. It was wet of course. Warm, yet the wetness it left behind over the gash was enough to make the breaths you exhaled feel like a cold gust of wind. You paused your ministrations, a pause that lasted just a second to allow Kuai Liang to shut his eyes and let you continue without his gaze jumping around the room. Perhaps it would go faster if he wasn't so distracted by the way your features accepted the light of the moon through the window like a second skin. That made sense, yeah?

“Does it hurt?”

You asked. Somehow your light motions became even more gentle as you dabbed at the edges of the wound, cleaning dried blood and dirt alike from the scab. You felt the response rumble in his throat as you cradled his jaw to keep him still, each syllable bumping against the tips of your fingers as he spoke them.

“No.”

“You sure?”

Out of your peripheral you saw his left eye crack open to peer at you through his heavy lashes. Laughter that would have bubbled in his gut instead gleamed in his chocolate brown gaze.

Your worries were endearing to him. A quality he enjoyed even as he wished he could disperse it all from your mind at times.

He rested a heavy hand on your knee, letting you feel the warmth of his palms through your pants as he responded so simply.

“I'm positive, my flame.”

He felt your hold on him go slack by a smidge. He made no moves to take it as a chance to escape though, content to let you work. Your attention shifted from the injury to the way he half-gazed at you (lol) before his eye shut once more.

He bared himself to you in moments like these. Allowing you to see him at a point further than naked.

A vulnerability that wasn't exactly rare perhaps, but valued. And he could feel it in the way you cradled him and cared for him, nursed him like you were made to tend to him. The same way you knew he'd fawn over you at a moment's notice.

It was still easy to get carried away with the luxury of peace you were given with a man so easy to love. Even when your finger was bare of a ring, you knew he'd take care of you until the end of days.

Kuai Liang remained still and obedient in your hold, letting his mind okay images behind his eyelids. Of his day, of what lay ahead in the morning, all the work he had to worry for—

Only drawn out of such a trance by the soft motions of your thumb against his cheek. Both eyes pried open this time to face your thoughtful and affectionate eyes, a sight that made his heart flutter just a bit faster.

“Distracted?”

He managed to muse. You barely broke from your own daze to meet his eyes briefly before you offered a roll of your shoulders.

“Just thinking.”

“Me as well.”

He admitted. Kuai Liang chased your gaze this time, cocking his head to the side and pressing his cheek against your palm like a needy cat. It inevitably drew your eyes together again, gazes meeting as he smiled at you.

“Of?”

You were first to ask. His hand on your knee gently squeezed.

“Tomorrow. How I wish I could lay with you later into the day.”

He tilted his head down to kiss your palm. Kuai Liang had to keep himself from laughing as he felt a rush of warmth pump through your veins in reaction. It radiated off you, he couldn't help but feel it in such a close proximity.

“And you?”

“It's.. Less poetic.”

Your dry laugh earned a quick of his unmarked brow.

“No need to be eloquent. I'll listen nonetheless.”

Assurance met with a relaxation crossing your features, knit together brows easing.

“I’m thinking about how much I hate seeing you hurt.”

Maybe now would be a time to draw you into his arms and squeeze the anxieties out of your frame, and to remain wrapped up with you in the sheets until Tomas fetched you both for chores. Kuai itched to do just that, to kiss over your face until you laughed and pried him off of you, or until you curled up against his chest to hide your face from his flurry of attacks.

Instead, he simply watched. He watched the emotions play over your face as you continued.

“There's so much I wish I could do or could've done, I-”

“I wouldn't have wanted you to stop this.”

Kuai Liang interrupted. You visibly paused, hand drawing back from his jaw as you blinked at him.

“If my suffering means I've earned a place in your arms, I would take it over again in a heartbeat.”

The firmness of his words contrasted sharply with the way his eyes melted into pools of devotion, staring deep into your own as he pushed on.

“No matter what happens to me, I will persevere. Because it means I can crawl back to you and feel the warmth of your hands again.”

His touch drew away from you, a loss that made his chest squeeze before he found your wrists.

His gentleness was so familiar every other time and yet still managed to make it feel brand new the way he brought your hands up to his lips and pressed his lips against your knuckles one by one. Sweet and tender, like you'd always know him to be.

“I don't like when you hurt.”

You reiterated, biting into your cheek to keep from saying more as he kissed the pads of your fingertips.

“Hm.”

Kuai Liang hummed in response.

“Then I suppose I'll have to come home unharmed every day for the rest of our lives, won't I?”

He purred. With a gentle nudge he uncurled your fingers and kissed down your palm to the underside of your wrist, squeezing your other hand in his larger one.

“I'm serious.”

“As am I, my love.”

The urge to argue was strong, but any time you'd open your mouth all your words would die ok your tongue. Like your mind urged you to take the love over the anxiety just this once. It was always a battle, but tonight the decision was easy. And quick.

“The rest of our lives, huh?”

“I won't have anyone else.”

“Never?”

Kuai raised his head, withdrawing his kisses from your now warmed skin.

“Never.”

He allowed one of your hands to slip out of his hold but still cupped the other. His calloused fingers pressed against the back of yours, gently pressing them into position until it was only your pinky standing straight up.

Kuai Liang linked his pinky finger with yours. He was careful even as he squeezed, wrapping his finger tighter around yours like a hug between the digits. Your lungs seemed incapable of producing any air for you to breathe this time as he brought your joined fingers to his lips, pressing a kiss over them one final time as if to seal the sacredness of the gesture in your mind.

And when he raised his lips away from your skin again, he smiled at you.

“I swear on it.”

☄. *. ⋆