"Shouldn't we go to the hospital first?" He Shun asked, glancing anxiously at Luan Xie, who was lost in the shifting colors of the world outside the car window. The fading daylight cast long shadows, and He Shun couldn't help but worry about Luan Xie's wellbeing. The bruises on his arms and the haunted look in his eyes were reminders of the danger they had just escaped.
"He can handle it. Qing-er is more important," Ye Rou replied coolly, eyes fixed on the road ahead as he navigated the winding streets with an almost reckless determination.
Luan Xie turned his head to look at Ye Rou, an eyebrow raised, amusement flickering through the fog of his earlier trauma. "Really funny. I used to be important," he said, his tone light but tinged with an undercurrent of hurt. The comment hung in the air, charged with unspoken memories and shared histories.
He Shun felt a surge of jealousy and protectiveness, tightening his hold around Luan Xie's shoulders. "Xie-er," he said softly, his voice low and steady, a silent promise of support.
"I'm just kidding, Shun~" Luan Xie laughed lightly, but there was a subtle quiver in his voice that betrayed the mask of humor he wore. He turned to He Shun, his expression softening as if to reassure him that he was okay. Yet, the flicker of pain behind his eyes lingered, a reminder of the darkness he had faced just moments before.
He Shun's heart ached at the sight of Luan Xie trying to lighten the mood, even amidst the turmoil swirling around them. "You really scared me back there," he admitted, his grip still firm. "I thought—" He hesitated, the weight of what could have happened pressing heavily on him.
Luan Xie turned fully to face him, his expression shifting into something more serious. "I'm fine, really. I can take care of myself. You know that," he reassured, but there was a fragile note in his voice. The bravado he often exuded felt like a mask, hiding the vulnerability he felt inside.
"Fine?" He Shun echoed, skepticism lining his features. "You were surrounded by those guys. They could have hurt you, and we both know you don't just 'handle' situations like that."
"I'd always come back to you, Shun." Luan Xie said, his voice barely above a whisper, yet the words hung heavily in the air, charged with an unsteady mix of emotion.
He turned his gaze away from the window, his eyes searching He Shun's face for understanding, for reassurance that there was still a place for him in the world. The way He Shun looked at him, with unwavering support and genuine concern, made something inside Luan Xie ache. It was a stark contrast to the hollow feeling that often consumed him when he thought of Ye Rou and Zhong Qing.
In the stillness of the car, Luan Xie felt the weight of the unspoken truth settle between them. He had wandered through darkness and doubt, feeling like a mere shadow of his former self, yet in He Shun's presence, he felt the flicker of hope. A warmth that pulled him back, like a lighthouse guiding a lost ship through treacherous waters.
"But why?" Luan Xie continued, frustration tinged with vulnerability spilling out in his voice. "After everything I've been through, why would you still want me? I'm not a good person." His heart raced as he forced himself to confront the emotional walls he had built, walls reinforced by pain and betrayal.
"Because I see you," He Shun replied, his voice steady and sincere. "I see the real you beneath the hurt and the anger. You're not defined by your past or the people who tried to control you. You're strong, Xie-er. Stronger than you know."
Luan Xie felt a warmth spread through him at those words, but it was quickly shadowed by doubt. "What if I'm not strong enough?" he questioned, his voice trembling slightly. "What if I'm just a burden? You deserve someone who isn't weighed down by the ghosts of their past."
He Shun reached out, gently placing his hand over Luan Xie's, grounding him in that moment. "You're not a burden. You're someone who has fought to survive. And I'm not going anywhere. I'll always be here for you, no matter what. You don't have to face this alone."
Luan Xie felt tears prick at the corners of his eyes, a blend of relief and frustration threatening to spill over. He wanted to believe He Shun, to trust that this love was real and unwavering. But the echoes of his past, the memories of feeling used and discarded, lingered like a dark cloud, casting shadows over his heart.
"Just promise me you won't run away again," He Shun urged softly, concern etched in his features. "Promise me that you'll let me in, even when it gets hard."
Taking a deep breath, Luan Xie nodded, though uncertainty gnawed at him. "I'll try," he replied, his voice barely a whisper. "I'll try to be better. For you."
As they drove through the dimly lit streets, Luan Xie felt the walls he had built around himself begin to crack, just a little. The promise of a new beginning shimmered on the horizon, and for the first time in a long while, he dared to hope.
"If you're done with your heartfelt talks, can Luan Xie now focus on his energy and find my Qing-er?" Ye Rou interjected, his tone dripping with impatience, as he maneuvered the car through the winding streets.
"Don't be bitter," He Shun shot back, unable to hide a smirk. He knew how to poke at Ye Rou's frustration like a pro, and the way Ye Rou's brow twitched was proof that he was hitting the mark.
"Bitter? Me? No, I'm just concerned about the health of my beloved advisor," Ye Rou replied, his voice a perfect mix of sarcasm and indignation. "You know, the one who apparently survived a fall that would have turned a lesser man into a pancake."
"Maybe it's a miracle," Luan Xie said, feigning dramatic astonishment, "Or perhaps he found a magical unicorn that granted him a second chance at life. Either way, the story has potential!"
He Shun chuckled, leaning into Luan Xie's humor. "I can see it now: Zhong Qing and the Quest for the Enchanted Pancake. A best-seller!"
Ye Rou rolled his eyes, clearly unamused. "If you two are done writing your bestseller, can we please focus? I don't need you two getting cozy while my advisor is out there, probably being tortured by some thugs who want his autograph."
"Relax, Ye Rou," Luan Xie said, adopting a faux-serious tone. "I mean, what's a little 'torture' between friends? Besides, I'm sure he's making friends. He's probably holding a 'How to Survive Being Kidnapped' seminar right now."
"Sounds like a riveting class," He Shun quipped. "I can picture the curriculum: 'Step One: Keep Your Cool While They Try to Break You.'"
"Step Two: Use Your Powers of Charm to Distract Them," Luan Xie added with a mock flourish. "He could charm the socks off anyone, including the guys who were about to beat me up!"
"Good point!" Ye Rou said, his voice slightly softening. "I'll give him that. He's always had a way of making enemies rethink their life choices."
"Right?" Luan Xie grinned, pleased to see Ye Rou's mood lifting, even if just a little. "I mean, who wouldn't want to take advice from someone who looks that good while getting chased?"
Ye Rou sighed dramatically. "And who wouldn't want to endure the endless rambling of a man obsessed with his own reflection?"
"Hey!" Luan Xie shot back, mock-offended. "At least I'm not the one who's secretly pining for my dead ex!"
"Now, wait a minute—" Ye Rou began, only for He Shun to interject.
"Let's not start throwing accusations in a moving vehicle. I prefer not to become a tragic headline."
"Yeah, 'Three Young Men in a Car, One Too Many Sarcasms, and a Fatal Accident'," Luan Xie added, chuckling.
As laughter filled the car, Ye Rou finally managed a smile, albeit a reluctant one. "If you two keep this up, I'll drop you both off and go look for Qing-er myself."
"Now that's a threat!" He Shun replied with a grin. "Just remember to keep your phone charged, or else you might miss out on all the fun we're having."
"Fun? This isn't a picnic!" Ye Rou exclaimed, though the hint of a smile betrayed his annoyance.
"Could have fooled me with the way you're driving," Luan Xie joked. "You're like a grandma behind the wheel!"
"Maybe I should take tips from you, oh great 'I can make bad situations hilarious,'" Ye Rou retorted, shaking his head with exasperation.
"Now that's a title I'd wear proudly!" Luan Xie declared, and the three of them shared a moment of light-heartedness amidst the tension that hung in the air, each of them feeling a little more connected, even in the face of uncertainty.
As the banter continued, the car felt less like a makeshift rescue mission and more like a reunion of old friends, despite the looming threat of Zhong Qing's predicament. Luan Xie leaned back in his seat, a grin still plastered on his face, his earlier fears momentarily forgotten.
"Seriously, though," He Shun said, his expression turning slightly more serious as he glanced at Luan Xie. "How does this connection of yours work? Can you really feel him?"
Luan Xie's smile faded, replaced by a thoughtful look. "It's hard to explain. When I first formed that bond with him, it was like... our energies were intertwined. I could sense his emotions, his well-being. It's as if a part of me is always aware of where he is and what he's feeling."
"Sounds a bit romantic," Ye Rou said, his tone half-joking. "What's next? You're going to tell us you have psychic powers, too?"
"Don't give me ideas," Luan Xie shot back, a playful glint in his eye. "I could become the next big thing in the superhero world: The Empathic Prince! I'd save people and give them therapy sessions all in one go."
He Shun laughed. "And then you'd charge them for your services! 'First session is free, but after that, I'll need your wallet.'"
"Exactly! I'm just being practical!" Luan Xie said, bursting into laughter, though the mention of money sparked a pang of discomfort in him. He quickly pushed it aside. "But really, if I can sense him, that means he's alive, right? There's hope."
Ye Rou's expression shifted back to seriousness. "Then we need to find him fast. If he survived, there's a chance he could be in even more danger now. We can't waste any more time."
He Shun nodded, his gaze steady. "Right. Let's focus. We'll find him, and then maybe we can get you both some proper therapy afterward."
"Great! I'll take a group session," Luan Xie joked. "I'll bring the snacks!"
"Only if they're low-calorie," Ye Rou replied, suppressing a smile. "I have to keep my figure, you know."
"Sure, whatever helps you sleep at night," Luan Xie said with a wink. "As long as there's chocolate, I'm in."
The camaraderie, however fleeting, was enough to bolster their spirits as they continued down the darkened streets. But as they turned into an even narrower alley, the air thickened with tension, and Luan Xie's playful demeanor faltered slightly.
"Do you really think he's okay?" Luan Xie asked quietly, gazing out the window, his heart pounding at the thought of Zhong Qing.
"He's strong," He Shun replied, a comforting hand resting on Luan Xie's shoulder. "And he knows how to take care of himself. You did that for him. He wouldn't want you worrying."
"Easy for you to say," Luan Xie muttered, though his heart ached with anxiety. "You don't have that kind of bond with him. You don't understand what it's like to feel someone you care about in danger."
Ye Rou, sensing the shift in the mood, added, "You're right, but we're in this together. We'll figure it out."
Suddenly, Luan Xie's breath hitched as a familiar sensation surged through him—a jolt of energy that felt both exhilarating and terrifying. He leaned forward, pressing a hand to his chest as the connection grew stronger.
"I can feel him!" Luan Xie exclaimed, eyes wide. "He's close! We need to go this way!"
Ye Rou turned the car sharply, following Luan Xie's lead, as he pointed down another dimly lit street. The urgency in Luan Xie's voice ignited a fire within them, pushing aside the lingering doubts. They were close now, and with every heartbeat, the weight of their shared determination hung in the air, thick and palpable.
"Hang on, Qing-er. We're coming for you," Luan Xie whispered, more to himself than anyone else, his resolve hardening as they raced toward the unknown.
"Don't say stuff like you're dating my man," Ye Rou snapped, his voice dripping with jealousy as he shot a glance at He Shun.
Luan Xie raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Oh please, if anything, I'm just doing the emotional labor while you two are busy being... well, you."
He Shun chuckled, throwing his hands up in mock surrender. "I'm just here to keep the peace! I have no desire to step on anyone's toes—especially not yours, Ye Rou."
"Good call," Ye Rou retorted, trying to maintain his stern facade but failing miserably as a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "Because if you did, I'd have to unleash my devastating charm on you."
"Devastating charm?" Luan Xie laughed, shaking his head. "That sounds more like a bad pickup line than a threat."
Ye Rou rolled his eyes dramatically. "You're just jealous because I can pull off a leather jacket better than you."
Luan Xie smirked, crossing his arms. "Please, you look like a wannabe villain. I'm the one who could start a fashion revolution."
"Just focus on finding Zhong Qing," He Shun interjected, trying to steer the conversation back to the task at hand. "We can settle the fashion debate later."
"Fine, fine," Luan Xie said, still chuckling. "But you both know I'm right about the jacket. Just admit it."
"Keep dreaming," Ye Rou muttered, though he couldn't help but grin as they sped down the darkened alley, the tension momentarily lifted by their banter.
As they rounded another corner, Luan Xie's expression shifted, the playful light fading as he concentrated on the connection pulling him forward. "No more distractions. We're close," he said, the gravity of the situation settling in.
"Right," He Shun agreed, his focus sharpening. "Let's find him."
"Together," Ye Rou added, determination returning to his voice, leaving behind the teasing as they united in their shared mission to locate Zhong Qing.
"Weren't we supposed to hate Ye Rou?" Luan Xie asked He Shun, raising an eyebrow as he glanced at the man behind the wheel. "He literally hunted us down."
He Shun shrugged, a playful grin creeping onto his face. "True, but I think the circumstances have shifted a bit. I mean, look at us—we're practically a dysfunctional family now."
Luan Xie snorted. "A dysfunctional family? More like a group therapy session gone wrong."
Ye Rou shot them a glare through the rearview mirror. "Hey! I'm not the one who wanted to play house. You two started it!"
"Right, because you had no part in it," Luan Xie retorted, a teasing smile on his lips. "You were the one who decided to swoop in and play the hero. It's a classic villain move, you know."
Ye Rou groaned. "I'm not a villain! I'm just trying to save my—"
"Your what? Your ex?" Luan Xie interrupted, feigning innocence. "Or is it your new best friend?"
He Shun joined in, laughing. "Honestly, this is turning into a romantic comedy. You should start charging admission for this ride."
Ye Rou rolled his eyes, but the corner of his mouth quirked up in a reluctant smile. "If this is a romantic comedy, then you both are my unwelcome sidekicks."
Luan Xie leaned closer to He Shun, pretending to whisper loudly enough for Ye Rou to hear. "Can you believe him? Sidekick material? He can barely drive."
"Hey!" Ye Rou exclaimed, swerving slightly, his mock offense making the car jolt. "I'm a perfectly good driver. And a great hero, thank you very much!"
Luan Xie snickered, shaking his head. "A hero? Right. More like a comic relief character."
"Look, can we focus on finding Zhong Qing before you two start a fan club for my driving skills?" Ye Rou said, trying to regain control of the conversation, though laughter still lingered in the air.
"Fine, fine," Luan Xie replied, raising his hands in surrender. "But just know, I'm keeping score. This little detour will be remembered."
"Please, do," Ye Rou said with a smirk. "At least then I'll have a record of all the times you two were annoying."
As they continued down the darkened alley, the banter eased the tension, the stakes of their mission still heavy in the air, but for now, they found solace in their shared laughter.
"Wait!" Luan Xie yelled, his voice slicing through the tension in the car. Ye Rou slammed on the brakes, the tires screeching in protest as they came to an abrupt halt.
"What the—" Ye Rou shouted, his annoyance evident as he whipped his head around to face Luan Xie.
"Zhong Qing is here. Somewhere nearby. In a... house?!" Luan Xie declared, his eyes wide with urgency.
Ye Rou rolled his eyes, trying to remain calm. "We are in a forest. A house? Really?"
"Hey! If it's a house, then there must be one around here!" He Shun chimed in, scanning the dimly lit surroundings as if a cottage would magically appear. "Forests usually have cabins or something."
Luan Xie leaned forward, his heart racing. "I can feel him! We're close, I just know it!" He turned to Ye Rou, his tone shifting from playful to serious. "You need to look for something. Anything that resembles a house!"
Ye Rou sighed dramatically, running a hand through his hair. "Fine! But if we find some creepy shack and it turns out to be the lair of a serial killer, I'm holding you both responsible."
He Shun snickered, raising an eyebrow. "Creepy shacks are part of the adventure, aren't they?"
"Adventure? More like a horror movie waiting to happen," Ye Rou muttered, shifting the car into gear and driving cautiously into the shadows of the trees.
Luan Xie peered out the window, his brow furrowing as they navigated deeper into the forest. "I swear, if we find a creepy old man with an axe, I'm blaming you two," he joked, though the anxiety in his voice betrayed him.
"Don't worry, Xie-er, I'll protect you," He Shun said, a grin spreading across his face. "You just have to promise to keep your hands to yourself when the axe-wielding maniac shows up."
Luan Xie chuckled despite the gravity of the situation. "No promises."
After a few tense moments of silence, Ye Rou suddenly spotted something through the trees—a faint outline of a structure ahead, partially hidden by the thick underbrush. "There! That looks like a house," he announced, relief flooding his voice.
"Let's check it out!" Luan Xie exclaimed, his previous fear replaced with determination as he felt the connection to Zhong Qing grow stronger.
Ye Rou parked the car hastily, and the three of them jumped out, ready to face whatever awaited them in the shadows. As they approached the house, the feeling of urgency weighed heavily in the air, each of them bracing for the unexpected as they moved closer to their uncertain fate.
"Qing-er!" Ye Rou yelled, flinging the door open with such force that it nearly flew off its hinges. The sound echoed through the dimly lit interior, rattling the dust from the cobwebbed corners.
"Is anyone here?" He Shun called, stepping cautiously inside. The air was stale, heavy with the scent of mildew and neglect, and the floor creaked ominously beneath their feet. He glanced back at Luan Xie, who was lingering near the entrance, his expression a mix of hope and dread.
"Zhong Qing!" Luan Xie shouted, his voice carrying a desperate urgency that filled the silence. He felt the energy pulsing within him, guiding him further into the house. "He's close. I can feel it!"
Ye Rou rushed in, his heart pounding as he scanned the shadowy corners. "If you're hiding, you better come out now! This isn't funny!" The tension in his voice was palpable, a mix of anxiety and a protective instinct that pushed him forward.
As they moved deeper into the house, the atmosphere thickened, and a chill swept through the air. The walls were lined with fading photographs—moments captured in time that felt hauntingly familiar. Luan Xie could see a younger Zhong Qing smiling in one of them, standing next to a man whose face was obscured by shadow.
"Keep looking!" He Shun urged, determination driving his every step. "He has to be here somewhere!"
Suddenly, a soft groan echoed from the back room, and Luan Xie froze, his heart racing. "Did you hear that?" he whispered, his earlier bravado melting away.
"Yeah, I did," Ye Rou replied, his voice steady but low. "Let's check it out."
They exchanged a glance, and without a word, they moved toward the sound, every creak of the floorboards amplifying their anxiety. Luan Xie felt a surge of energy as they approached the door leading to the back room. He pushed it open slowly, his breath catching in his throat.
There, slumped against the wall, was Zhong Qing. His face was pale, bruised, and he looked disoriented, as if he had just been pulled from a nightmare. Luan Xie's heart dropped at the sight, a mix of relief and pain flooding through him.
"Qing-er!" Ye Rou shouted, rushing forward to kneel beside him.
Zhong Qing blinked, trying to focus on the figure in front of him. "Ye Rou?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "What are you doing here?"
Luan Xie stepped closer, feeling the connection thrumming between them. "Zhong Qing, we're here to help you," he said, his voice trembling. "What happened?"
Zhong Qing struggled to sit up, wincing as he did. "I... I was caught off guard. They... they wanted information," he stammered, his eyes darting between Luan Xie and Ye Rou. "I didn't give them anything, but they didn't care."
Ye Rou's expression darkened, a mixture of anger and concern swirling in his gaze. "Who did this to you?"
"They were just some thugs. I didn't think they'd actually come after me. I thought... I thought I was safe." Zhong Qing's voice broke, and Luan Xie felt a pang of sympathy for the man he had once despised.
Luan Xie knelt down beside Zhong Qing, grasping his shoulder gently. "You're safe now. We're here. We'll make sure this doesn't happen again," he promised, feeling the bond between them strengthen.
Zhong Qing looked up, searching Luan Xie's eyes for reassurance. "You don't have to do this for me," he said weakly.
"I want to," Luan Xie replied, his determination unwavering. "Let's get you out of here."
He Shun helped Zhong Qing to his feet, supporting him as he leaned heavily against him. "Can you walk?" he asked, glancing at Luan Xie and Ye Rou, who were both ready to step in if needed.
"Yeah, I can manage," Zhong Qing said, though his voice was strained.
As they made their way toward the door, the atmosphere shifted. The once-familiar house felt ominous, like it was closing in around them. Luan Xie felt the weight of their pasts pressing down on him, but he pushed it aside. They had to escape, together.
Just as they reached the entrance, the front door suddenly slammed shut, trapping them inside. The sound echoed like a gunshot, and Luan Xie's heart raced with fear. "What was that?" he exclaimed, turning to look back at the door.
"Stay close!" Ye Rou ordered, his voice low and tense as he scanned the shadows, ready for anything that might come their way.
Luan Xie gripped Zhong Qing's arm tighter, his instincts on high alert. Whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.
The room was suddenly thick with tension, the atmosphere charged with uncertainty. Luan Xie could feel the fear radiating off Zhong Qing, and it mirrored his own rising panic. He peered into the shadows beyond the door, where the dim light barely penetrated.
"Someone's here," Luan Xie whispered, his heart racing. "We need to find another way out!"
He Shun nodded, keeping his voice low. "Let's check the back windows. They might still be unlocked." He started toward the kitchen, gesturing for Zhong Qing to follow.
Luan Xie glanced back at Ye Rou, who was standing sentinel near the door, fists clenched. "You sure you want to stand there? We need to move!"
"I'm not leaving without knowing what's going on," Ye Rou said, his jaw tight with determination. "I'll hold them off if I have to."
"Not if it means getting yourself hurt!" Luan Xie snapped back, but before he could argue further, a sound cut through the air—a muffled voice from outside, then the unmistakable sound of footsteps approaching.
"Quick, into the kitchen!" He Shun urged, ushering Zhong Qing ahead of him. They ducked into the small space, the kitchen's outdated appliances and dusty countertops feeling like a time capsule from another life.
Luan Xie moved to the window, peering out through the grime-covered glass. His heart sank as he spotted two figures lurking near the front of the house, glancing around with predatory gazes. "They're out there," he said, turning back to the others. "We can't go that way."
"Let's check the back door," He Shun suggested, pushing past a rickety table cluttered with old magazines and empty bottles. The sound of their hurried footsteps felt deafening in the stillness.
Zhong Qing leaned against the countertop, trying to steady himself. "I can't believe this is happening," he murmured, the weight of the situation pressing heavily on him. "I thought I was safe here."
Luan Xie's heart ached for him, memories of their past conflicts surfacing. "You are safe now. Just trust us," he said firmly, trying to inject confidence into his voice.
They reached the back door, and He Shun twisted the knob, only to find it locked tight. "Damn it!" he muttered, shaking the handle in frustration.
"Let me try," Luan Xie said, stepping forward and placing a hand on the door. He closed his eyes, focusing on the connection he still felt with Zhong Qing. "Just hold on. I'll try to channel some energy."
Ye Rou moved closer, his eyes darting between the door and the window as if the impending threat was tangible. "We don't have time for this!"
"I know! Just give me a second!" Luan Xie snapped, feeling the energy surge within him. He concentrated, picturing the door yielding to their escape. The air around him vibrated, charged with potential, and he felt a warmth radiating from his palm.
Suddenly, the door shook violently, the handle rattling as if something was pushing against it from the other side. Luan Xie opened his eyes in surprise, the energy he was channeling reacting instinctively to the threat.
"What the—" He Shun exclaimed, stepping back as the door splintered slightly.
"They're trying to get in!" Ye Rou yelled, eyes wide with urgency. "We need to move now!"
With a burst of determination, Luan Xie pushed against the door, channeling every ounce of energy he had. The wood creaked under the pressure, and he could feel the resistance begin to weaken. "On three! One, two—"
Before he could finish, the door swung open suddenly, crashing against the wall, and two of the thugs from earlier rushed in, eyes wild with malice.
"There they are!" one of them shouted, lunging forward.
"Get down!" Ye Rou yelled, shoving Zhong Qing behind him and preparing to confront the intruders.
Luan Xie's instincts kicked in. "Shun, get Zhong Qing out of here!" he shouted, positioning himself protectively in front of Ye Rou. He was acutely aware of the fear and uncertainty swirling around them but refused to let it paralyze him.
"Go!" He Shun urged, grabbing Zhong Qing's arm and pulling him toward the back of the kitchen. "We'll find another way out."
But before they could escape, the second thug swung a fist at Luan Xie, and he barely dodged in time, feeling the rush of air as the blow narrowly missed him.
"Damn it!" Luan Xie cursed, adrenaline surging as he steadied himself. He looked to Ye Rou, whose expression was one of grim determination, ready to fight.
"Luan Xie, behind you!" Ye Rou shouted, and Luan Xie spun just in time to see the first thug lunging again.
He sidestepped, feeling the adrenaline coursing through him as he retaliated with a swift kick to the thug's knee, sending him crashing to the ground. The second thug charged, and Luan Xie felt a rush of fear grip him. He ducked, narrowly avoiding a punch that would have sent him sprawling.
"Get him!" Ye Rou yelled, jumping into the fray, tackling the second thug to the ground. The two men rolled on the floor, grappling for control.
Luan Xie's heart raced as he tried to focus, his instincts kicking in. He had to protect Zhong Qing and He Shun. He grabbed a nearby kitchen knife, brandishing it as he faced the remaining thug, who was now rising to his feet.
"Stay back!" Luan Xie warned, brandishing the knife. "You don't want to do this!"
But the thug smirked, undeterred. "I've seen what you can do, pretty boy. You think a little knife will scare me?"
Luan Xie felt his resolve hardening. "It's not about scaring you. It's about making sure you don't hurt anyone else!"
Suddenly, He Shun returned to his side, eyes filled with determination. "We can't let them corner us. We need to work together!"
As they prepared to face off against the thugs, Luan Xie felt the energy thrumming within him, the connection with Zhong Qing amplifying his strength. "On my count!" he shouted, glancing at He Shun and Ye Rou. "One, two, three!"
With a surge of adrenaline, they charged forward, ready to fight for their freedom and their lives.
As they charged forward, the air thick with tension and the smell of sweat and adrenaline, Luan Xie felt his heart pound like a war drum in his chest. He and He Shun moved in sync, each anticipating the other's movements as they faced down the thugs.
Ye Rou grappled with the second thug, his muscles straining as he pushed against the weight of his opponent. "Luan Xie! Focus on the one in front of you!" he shouted, his voice fierce and commanding.
Luan Xie nodded, locking eyes with the thug before him, whose cocky smirk faded into a scowl as he realized the odds were against him. With He Shun flanking him, Luan Xie felt a rush of confidence. "You picked the wrong fight," he said, trying to sound braver than he felt.
"Is that so?" the thug sneered, lunging at Luan Xie. He swung his fist wildly, but Luan Xie ducked just in time, the thug's fist missing him by inches.
"Now, Shun!" Luan Xie yelled, and He Shun seized the moment, darting forward to tackle the thug from the side. The two men collided with a heavy thud, sending the thug staggering back.
"Nice move!" Luan Xie exclaimed, adrenaline coursing through him. Together, they closed in on the thug, cornering him against the wall.
Meanwhile, Ye Rou had managed to get the upper hand against his opponent. He pinned the thug to the ground, his knee pressing into the man's back as he held his arms down. "You picked the wrong house, idiot!" Ye Rou spat, the anger boiling over.
"Get off me!" the thug shouted, struggling futilely against Ye Rou's grip.
Luan Xie watched the chaos unfold, feeling a mix of fear and exhilaration. They were holding their own, but he knew they needed to end this quickly. He glanced over at Zhong Qing, who was still hiding behind the counter, fear etched on his face.
"Zhong Qing! Stay safe!" Luan Xie called out, feeling a surge of protective instinct. He couldn't let anything happen to him again.
The thug he and He Shun had cornered suddenly made a desperate move, shoving He Shun away with surprising strength. "You think you can take me?!" he shouted, scrambling to regain his footing.
Luan Xie didn't hesitate. He lunged forward, the knife in his hand reflecting the dim kitchen light. "You're not getting away that easy!" he shouted, brandishing the blade.
But just as he reached for the thug, a crash echoed from outside the house. The door they had entered through burst open, and a third thug, larger than the others, stormed in. "What the hell is going on in here?" he barked, eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation.
"Oh great, just what we needed," He Shun muttered, backing away instinctively. "Luan Xie, we need to get out of here!"
"Run!" Ye Rou yelled, shoving the thug beneath him away as he sprang to his feet. The three of them didn't need to be told twice. They bolted for the kitchen's back door, hearts pounding with urgency.
Luan Xie flung open the door, the cold air hitting him like a wave as he stepped outside. He could hear the sounds of commotion from the front of the house—more thugs had arrived. "We're surrounded!" he gasped, panic setting in.
He Shun looked around, desperate for a way out. "This way!" he shouted, pointing toward a narrow path that wound deeper into the woods.
"Wait!" Ye Rou grabbed Luan Xie's arm, forcing him to look at him. "Are you sure about this? We need to regroup, find a way to take them out!"
"No time! They're coming!" Luan Xie urged, his instincts screaming at him to move. "We can't fight them all. We need to get to safety!"
With no other option, they sprinted down the path, the sounds of pursuit echoing behind them. The trees loomed like giants, the darkening sky above them a swirling canvas of blues and purples as twilight began to fall.
As they ran, Luan Xie's mind raced. What if Zhong Qing was still in danger? What if they couldn't escape? But he pushed the thoughts away, focusing on the rhythm of his feet pounding against the ground, the breathless determination propelling him forward.
Suddenly, a figure stepped out from behind a tree, and Luan Xie skidded to a stop. His heart dropped when he recognized Zhong Qing's familiar face. "What are you doing here?!" Luan Xie exclaimed, panic flooding his voice.
"Get back!" Zhong Qing shouted, panic in his eyes. "They're coming for you!"
A moment later, the sound of branches snapping and footsteps crashing through the underbrush echoed behind them. "We need to move, now!" He Shun urged, pulling Luan Xie back toward the path.
Without thinking, Luan Xie grabbed Zhong Qing's wrist, pulling him along. "Come on!" he shouted, urging him to run with them.
As they dashed deeper into the forest, the thugs' shouts became muffled behind them, but they knew the danger was far from over. "Where are we going?" Zhong Qing panted, struggling to keep pace.
"Anywhere but here!" Luan Xie replied, glancing back as the shadows of the trees swallowed them whole. The adrenaline coursed through his veins, but deep down, a nagging fear remained—what if they couldn't escape this time? What if the past caught up with them?
"Keep moving!" Ye Rou called, his voice echoing through the trees as he led the way. "We have to find a place to hide."
As they pressed on, Luan Xie felt the weight of his connection to Zhong Qing intensify, a bond forged through pain and heartache. In that moment, he realized that despite everything, they were all in this together, fighting against the darkness that threatened to consume them. They would find a way to survive, or they would fall together.
And as they ran, Luan Xie knew one thing for certain: he would do whatever it took to protect them.
"My men are here!" Ye Rou exclaimed in relief as his crew burst onto the scene, armed and ready for action. They moved with precision, quickly surrounding the thugs and cutting off any chance of escape. The atmosphere shifted dramatically; the sound of rustling leaves and heavy footsteps was replaced by the chaotic clatter of boots hitting the forest floor as Ye Rou's men took control.
Luan Xie felt a wave of relief wash over him, but it was quickly overshadowed by the rising tension. "Are you sure they'll be able to handle this?" he asked, glancing nervously at the growing number of thugs still lurking in the shadows.
"Trust me," Ye Rou replied, his voice low and steady. "These men know what they're doing."
The thugs, realizing they were outnumbered, began to exchange worried glances, their bravado crumbling as Ye Rou's men closed in. "You're not going anywhere," one of Ye Rou's men shouted, brandishing a weapon and stepping forward with authority.
Luan Xie watched the scene unfold, his heart racing as adrenaline mixed with anxiety. He turned to Zhong Qing, who had finally caught his breath but still looked shaken. "Are you okay?" Luan Xie asked, his voice laced with concern.
Zhong Qing nodded, but the fear in his eyes told a different story. "I'm fine, just… I didn't expect all of this. I thought I was the one who had to save you."
"Looks like we're all in this together now," Luan Xie said, trying to lighten the mood even as the tension escalated around them.
He Shun stepped closer to Luan Xie, wrapping an arm around his waist possessively. "No more heroics, okay? We're a team now." His voice was steady, but Luan Xie could feel the underlying worry in He Shun's tone.
The confrontation escalated as the thugs began to fight back. "You think you can take us on?" one of them shouted, his bravado returning as he swung a fist at one of Ye Rou's men. The chaos erupted, and fists flew as the two groups clashed.
"Get back!" Ye Rou shouted, taking control of the situation. He pushed his way through the fray, his presence commanding attention. "You know who you're messing with!"
Luan Xie's heart raced as he watched the fight unfold. He could feel the tension in the air, thick and electric. Every punch thrown, every grunt of effort echoed like a drumbeat in his chest.
"Stay close!" He Shun urged, pulling Luan Xie toward him as they navigated the chaos. "We need to make sure Zhong Qing is safe!"
"I'll be fine!" Zhong Qing insisted, his eyes narrowed with determination. "I'm not a child."
"But you are still outnumbered!" Luan Xie countered, worry gnawing at him. "We can't let anything happen to you again!"
As the battle raged on, Luan Xie caught sight of one of the thugs slipping away toward the edge of the clearing. "Hey! Someone's trying to escape!" he shouted, pointing toward the retreating figure.
"Don't let him get away!" Ye Rou barked, his voice sharp as he redirected his men. A few of them took off after the thug, determination etched on their faces.
In the midst of the chaos, Luan Xie felt the rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins. "I want to help!" he said, his heart racing with the thrill of the moment.
He Shun shot him a worried glance. "Luan Xie, this isn't a game!"
"I know!" Luan Xie replied, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "But I can't just stand here while they fight!"
With a resolute nod, he pulled away from He Shun and ran toward the nearest thug, the thrill of the fight igniting something deep within him. As he reached for the nearest weapon—a fallen branch—he swung it with all his might, connecting with the thug's side.
The man stumbled, caught off guard by Luan Xie's sudden attack. "What the—?" he exclaimed, turning to face him, only to find Luan Xie standing tall, defiance radiating from his every pore.
"Let's finish this!" Luan Xie yelled, feeling more alive than ever as the fight continued to swirl around him.
And just like that, he was no longer just a pawn in someone else's game. He was a player, ready to reclaim his agency and protect those he cared about.
As the dust settled, Luan Xie stood amidst the aftermath of the chaotic skirmish, breathless and exhilarated. Ye Rou's men had managed to overpower the remaining thugs, their training evident as they swiftly subdued their opponents and bound them with rope. The thugs lay scattered around the clearing, groaning in defeat, their bravado crushed under the weight of their miscalculations.
"Is everyone okay?" He Shun panted, scanning the area for any signs of injury. His eyes landed on Luan Xie, who was still catching his breath but wore a triumphant grin.
"I can't believe we did it!" Luan Xie exclaimed, the adrenaline still coursing through his veins. "I actually hit someone!"
Ye Rou walked over, wiping the sweat from his brow, his expression a mix of relief and irritation. "Next time, maybe let the professionals handle it, alright?" He shot Luan Xie a pointed look. "We're not running a school for aspiring warriors here."
"Aw, come on! I thought I did pretty well for someone who does not know anything about guns!" Luan Xie teased, nudging He Shun playfully. "Did you see me back there? I was a whirlwind of destruction!"
He Shun couldn't help but chuckle, though his eyes still held concern. "You scared me half to death. I thought you were going to get hurt!"
"Don't worry! I'm tougher than I look," Luan Xie replied, puffing out his chest in mock bravado, which earned him a disapproving eye-roll from Ye Rou.
Zhong Qing stepped forward, still catching his breath but looking significantly more composed. "I'm glad you're both okay. That was…unexpected," he said, glancing at the defeated thugs.
Ye Rou nodded, his expression shifting to something more serious. "We need to make sure they don't come back. They might have connections we're unaware of."
Luan Xie's mood shifted slightly, the gravity of their situation settling in. "What if they do come back? What if they want revenge?"
"We'll be ready for them," Ye Rou assured, his voice firm. "But first, we need to get out of here and regroup."
"Regroup? You mean like a family picnic?" Luan Xie replied, trying to lighten the mood again, but the seriousness of the situation still loomed overhead.
He Shun smiled softly, grateful for Luan Xie's attempt at humor. "More like a planning session. We need to figure out how to keep you safe."
As they began to walk back toward the car, Luan Xie couldn't shake the feeling of exhilaration mixed with dread. "I've never felt anything like that before. It was… intense."
"That's one way to put it," He Shun replied, glancing at Luan Xie with admiration. "But we really need to find a way to keep you out of danger."
"Danger? Pfft! I thrive in danger!" Luan Xie declared, puffing out his chest again, only to wince slightly as he remembered the earlier fight.
Ye Rou shook his head, a hint of a smile creeping onto his face despite himself. "Just promise me you won't make a habit of jumping into fights like that. We can't afford to lose you."
Luan Xie's expression softened as he met Ye Rou's gaze. "I won't. I promise."
As they reached the car, the reality of what they had faced began to sink in. Though they had emerged victorious, Luan Xie couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning. But for now, surrounded by those who cared about him, he felt a glimmer of hope and strength.
"Alright, team. Let's head back and figure out our next move," Ye Rou said, his voice returning to its authoritative tone.
And with that, they climbed into the car, the tension easing slightly as they drove away from the chaos behind them. Luan Xie leaned back in his seat, a small smile playing on his lips as he stole glances at He Shun and Zhong Qing, feeling a newfound sense of camaraderie and determination brewing within him