bound by instinct

chapter 2

Preparations for the journey to the Tian Dou Empire were nearly complete. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan's warriors were ready, provisions packed, and the horses saddled. Chen Xin had overseen everything with his characteristic precision, though the warmth simmering inside him became more difficult to ignore. His heat was approaching faster than expected, but he remained silent, determined not to let it interfere.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the courtyard, Ning Fengzhi requested a private word with him. The Sect Leader's study was a familiar sanctuary, filled with the scent of parchment and incense, a place where Chen Xin had always found guidance. And now, as the door closed behind them, Chen Xin felt a small weight settle on his chest.
Chen Xin stood at attention, hands clasped behind his back. "Of course, Sect Leader. Is something troubling you?"

Ning Fengzhi studied him for a long moment, his expression unreadable. "I could ask you the same thing. You've seemed...tense these past few days, more so than usual."

For a brief moment, Chen Xin hesitated. The warmth in his belly was growing more persistent by the hour, and though he had been carefully managing it, he knew it was only a matter of time before his heat fully surfaced. He considered telling Ning Fengzhi the truth, admitting that his body was betraying him at the worst possible moment. But then, the familiar voice of doubt crept in—how could he reveal such weakness? How could he admit that, despite his strength, he was in the midst of a heat cycle?

He had been taught his entire life that strength was synonymous with control, with dominance, with being an Alpha. Showing vulnerability was unthinkable.
Chen Xin stood at attention, his expression stoic. "I assure you, Sect Leader, there is nothing to worry about. I am ready for the journey."

Ning Fengzhi's gaze softened, a fatherly concern in his eyes. "You and I both know that you wouldn't tell me if something was bothering you. But I want to remind you—there is nothing you need to hide from me."
Chen Xin remained silent. He knew exactly what Ning Fengzhi was referring to. He had trusted his Sect Leader years ago with his secret—his status as an Omega—something that would have shattered anyone else's reputation. But Ning Fengzhi had never treated him differently. In fact, he had offered Chen Xin unwavering support, respecting his desire for privacy.

Now, though, with his heat approaching, Chen Xin's silence was no longer out of secrecy, but out of pride. He didn't want to appear weak or distracted, especially now. Not when his mission required his absolute focus.

"I appreciate your concern, Sect Leader," Chen Xin finally said, his voice calm and measured. "But this... is not relevant to our mission. I can manage it."
Ning Fengzhi watched him carefully, his eyes understanding but sad. "You've always been strong, uncle sword. Stronger than most, in fact. But strength doesn't mean you have to carry everything alone."

For a brief moment, Chen Xin's resolve wavered. He could feel the warmth in his chest rising, the subtle but familiar signs of his body betraying him. He knew Ning Fengzhi had noticed something—he always did—but the Sect Leader's kindness made it harder to keep his defenses up.

"I will manage," Chen Xin repeated softly, but firmly. "It will not affect my duty."

Ning Fengzhi sighed but nodded. "I won't press further. But remember, you don't need to face this alone. If you ever feel that it's too much, come to me."

The journey began the next morning, their small entourage moving steadily toward the Tian Dou Empire. Chen Xin rode in his usual position near Ning Fengzhi, his posture rigid and his senses on high alert. Despite his growing discomfort, he refused to let any sign of his condition show. He had controlled it before—he would control it now.