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Chapter Text

For the record, Wei Wuxian has always been an idiot when it comes to love. He can’t believe he wouldn’t have realized his feelings towards Lan Wangji until there is a threat that could take the latter away from him: a rival.

Cloud Recesses and its occupants have grown accustomed to Wei Wuxian’s presence ever since he has returned to Gusu with Lan Wangji after that fateful day on that mountaintop, a place that symbolizes an end and a new beginning.

He settles into his new normal life in Cloud Recesses. He still considers himself a rogue cultivator, building his golden core from the scratch – it’s a slow process but he feels it growing in him. His exploration of the world for a year and the recent adventures with Lan Wangji and the junior disciples definitely contributed a lot. When he isn’t out cultivating and night hunting, he follows Lan Wangji around as the man goes through his Chief Cultivator duties.

Wei Wuxian has tried to do things his way and to have his own routine, away from disturbing Lan Wangji, but time seems to slow down when they are separated. Despite the man’s tendency to be silent, his presence has become a natural thing in Wei Wuxian’s life, and he craves it. He has also started to crave to hold Lan Wangji’s hand for no reason, but that’s a talk for another day.

Lan Xichen goes out seclusion exactly two years after his brother became Chief Cultivator, vowing to take the position once he has adjusted to the life in Cloud Recesses again. Lan Qiren tolerates Wei Wuxian’s presence, but mostly ignores him – the Yiling Patriarch has no complaint with it, though.

As long as he is by Lan Wangji’s side, Wei Wuxian has nothing else to ask for from the universe.

The surprise arrives without much preamble, but is welcomed with grandeur. The MeilinGen Sect arrives with its Young Master Gen Liang, courtesy name Gen Lei, and his three rows of his own cultivators. The man arrives on a beautiful, white horse. Their Sect’s main theme is sunset, their robes bright and colourful yet not an eyesore.

The MeilinGen Sect is a smaller branch of the LanlingJin Sect, an affiliated clan, which is slowly rising due its change of leadership and leader-- the man leading them into Cloud Recesses. The GusuLan Sect knows of their arrival, and of their desire to appeal for a close relation with the Lan Clan, bearing gifts and friendship. Therefore, the GusuLan Sect welcomes them with a small banquet, half of their Conference Hall open, Lan Clan cultivators lining both right and left of the room, with Lan Qiren seated in the centre, his nephews standing on his sides.  Wei Wuxian is begrudgingly allowed to stand behind Lan Xichen after he has sworn proper behaviour for the whole visit.

Young Master Gen Lei walks into the hall, his left hand wrapped around his obsidian-colored and covered sword. With his free hand on his side, his steps are precise and confident. His dark hair flowing to his shoulder, a half-bun on top of his head decorated with a silver hairpiece that silhouettes something alike to thunder, his eyes are almost mahogany, changing to a darker color when the sun hits them. He is handsome in Wei Wuxian’s opinion, not high enough to reach Lan Wangji’s beauty but he could be considered an equal to Jin Zixuan. He guesses the guest is just few years older than them. His aura reminds the Yiling Patriarch of Lan Xichen but he has the fierceness of Nie Mingjue.

Gen Lei stops at the foot of the stairs, bowing courteously forward. His salute is perfect, befitting of the GusuLan Sect. He is a Young Master, alright. “Gen Lei from MeilinGen Sect. It is an honor to be in your presence, Grand Master Lan, Zewu-Jun and Hanguang-Jun.” He straightens up, his face stretching for a smile. His eyes crinkle, and Wei Wuxian gets the impression that the man smiles a lot. “Thank you for your warm welcome.”

Lan Qiren stands up, and along with his nephews –and Wei Wuxian—they bow towards their guests. “It is a surprise, but it is not unwelcome. I believe your main reason for your visit is to strengthen our alliance, is that correct?”

The guest nods, reaches for a box from one of his companions, then goes to his knees. He goes through the Salute Ceremony all over again before offering the box towards Lan Qiren. “Indeed, I do, Grand Master Lan. GusuLan Sect is known for its righteousness and powerful cultivation. I wish to strengthen our allegiance especially since our Sect is still rising and we were hoping for support in this. My people are cultivators also, but we truly need guidance to become stronger and establish our Clan.”

Lan Xichen steps down the stairs and accepts the gift, removing the top to reveal a breath taking set of incense burner. It is made of the finest porcelain, its embellished designs are colourful magnolias during spring. Their centres are holes to let out the steam. In smaller jars with twisting lids, which has the same decorations, are assortments of scents. “It is a beautiful set. I’m certain Uncle would favour of it.”

The Elder Lan nods in assent. “The gift is appreciated, Young Master Gen. We have heard of your Sect’s history, and we are pleased to offer you our help in building it, Doubt not, your men are always welcome to study in Cloud Recesses – we just sent invitations for the next six month lecture we will hold this year, we will attend to yours as soon as possible.”

Eyes lighting up with gratitude, Gen Lei bows. “Thank you very much, Grand Master Lan.”

A six-month lecture, huh. Heh, that brings memories, Wei Wuxian mulls to himself. An involuntary smile comes into his face, and he sneaks a glance towards Lan Wangji.

His heart thuds when he finds the Second Jade of Lan also staring at him, his eyes alight with amusement with memories they shared on their lecture in Cloud Recesses almost eighteen years ago. His cheeks burn at realizing their minds are almost at sync even if they didn’t talk.

Their attention are brought in front again when Gen Lei approaches another of his cultivator, and retrieves a smaller box. Even Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen are confused on the abundance of gifts. The guest kneels on the ground and places the box on his lap. His cultivators follow suit. “I have another favour I hope you would be inclined to hear.”

Lan Qiren frowns, but nods regardless. “Speak.”

Gen Lei takes a deep breath, and proclaims, “I wish to ask for your nephew’s hand for marriage.”

Silence reigns in the room for a whole minute before muttering and buzzing occupy it, the onlookers shocked to their cores with the declaration. The Elder Lan freezes, opening and closing his mouth. Lan Xichen has his brows furrowed in confusion while Lan Wangji is ever expressionless, merely blinking with the news.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t help his mouth, as he smirks, and whispers behind Lan Xichen, “How about it, Zewu-Jun? Is Young Master Gen up to your liking?”

Lan Xichen splutters, unable to look at anyone. “I—“

“Lan Wangji, Hanguang-Jun, Second Jade of Lan, I wish to declare my intentions on courting you,” Gen Lei adds, standing up and bowing lowly – tone shaking but sincere, his cheeks and ears flushed.

It takes few moments for the words to process in the Yiling Patriarch’s mind, but it seems he isn’t the only one malfunctioning as the whole room erupts with a single response of surprise,

“What?”

Wei Wuxian’s mouth couldn’t be pushed closed no matter how many times he has tried to do so. His jaw hanging open, he regards the leader of their guest Sect. He pinches himself to wake himself up, however he is evidently not dreaming. Considering the shock on everyone’s faces, he definitely heard the declaration correctly.

Panicking despite himself, he turns his head to the left. Lan Wangji is frozen in place, his hold around Bichen loose, his other hand has fallen to his side – decorum almost forgotten. His expression is almost blank except for his wide eyes and parted lips. He swallows and turns to glance at Wei Wuxian, asking for his help in a situation he has never been in.

I would rather be fighting fierce corpses than be in here, Lan Wangji’s expression screams.

Lan Qiren finally finds his voice, clearing his throat when the first sound ends with a choke. “Rise, Young Master Gen Lei.”

The guest rises, still flushed but confident on his feet.

“You do not need to do this just to build our alliance, Young Master Gen,” The Elder Lan assures. “Even without this declaration, we would willingly help you and your Sect rise and become stronger.”

For the first time in his two lifetimes, Wei Wuxian has agreed wholeheartedly to what Lan Qiren has spoken. Lan Wangji is still stiff, uncertain how things would play out.

Gen Lei smiles and shakes his head, cradling the box tenderly. “You misunderstand, Grand Master Lan. I have asked your allegiance before my proclamation because I have anticipated you would think this. I swear,” he raises a hand, pinky and thumb folded with the three remaining fingers pointing upwards, “that I am sincere in my advances towards your ne—younger nephew.”

Lan Xichen takes pity with his brother, and addresses the man on his behalf. “Young Master Gen, I do not intend any offense, but may I know what prompted this? Our Sects have barely interacted before. Please understand our surprise and confusion.”

Gen Lei sighs and smiles in nostalgia, his eyes trained on the ground. “In the two wars, I was under the LanlingJin Sect, training as a cultivator and building my skills. In the two wars, I have miraculously survived. In both wars, I watched Second Young Master Lan fight with unbelievable skills. He is stunning, almost ethereal.”

Wei Wuxian crosses his arms, and huffs. Another admirer. Just brave enough to actually declare his admiration.

Lan Wangji seems to have come into the same conclusion, his face impassive as he stares at the man. His shoulders are set into their same stance, and Wei Wuxian could already see him formulating how he would refuse the courtship.

However, Gen Lei isn’t done. He must have sensed the dismay in Lan Wangji’s expression with his shallow reasoning. He abruptly steps forward and shakes his head. “Hanguang-Jun, that’s not the reason I am in front of you. That was  just the start! I—I—“ He pauses and gulps. “I have been in both wars, and you probably do not recall, but you have saved me both times. I was also in the Indoctrination, and I watched you stand by your Clan after a broken leg and the burning of Cloud Recesses. I have witnessed you stand by the Yiling Patriarch because you saw his genuine and pure intentions.

I thought it was pure admiration at first but I was wrong. I looked and looked and realized how you are more than your titles. You never pretend. You are stoic but you are not heartless. You seem expressionless but you are capable of giving your all for the peace of the cultivation world. You saved me twice, and you changed me twice – you inspired me to find my strength and to stand for my people. Now, I stand before you to fight for myself, for my desire – which is to court you, and to know you more.”

The occupants of the Conference Hall all seemed pleased with his declaration, of the sincerity in his words, of the genuine passion in his eyes as he gazed up at Lan Wangji.

Wei Wuxian’s heart clenches when he finds Lan Wangji’s ears flushed. It is not easy to make the esteemed Hanguang-Jun blush, but this man managed to do so.

Lan Qiren strokes his beard, casts a glance at Wei Wuxian – he doesn’t like the look in the elder’s eyes—and then turns back in front. “I sensed nothing but sincerity, Young Master Gen. A marriage between an affiliate of LanlingJin Sect and GusuLan Sect seems beneficial, although you are both male.”

“Did that ever truly stop anyone?” Gen Lei responds, hands shaking around the still unopened box.

The Lan Elder eyes his younger nephew. “I guess not.” Wei Wuxian frowns at the implication of his words. Lan Wangji has never seemed interested with women, and marriage, but the Yiling Patriarch had always assumed it was because of his upbringing. Apparently, it might be because of preference?

Wei Wuxian blinks. Why does that thought make me excited?

The Older Jade of Lan looks from his Uncle to his brother before raising a hand. “Uncle, we should consider Wangji’s feelings regarding this. Yes, a union is beneficial for our Sects, but this will be Wangji’s life -- we must not dictate it.” At Lan Qiren’s scoff, which isn’t a refusal, Lan Xichen heaves a sigh of relief.

From the right side of the room, where the junior disciples are staying at, Wei Wuxian’s eyes catch Lan Sizhui’s. His son has an anxious expression, his eyes seeming to ask a question the Yiling Patriarch can’t interpret. When he raises an eyebrow, the junior sighs, looks from Lan Wangji to Gen Lei then shakes his head subtly. Lan Jingyi is watching their muted discussion on the side, wide-eyed.

Wei Wuxian lets his gaze travel to Lan Wangji and his breath catches at seeing the other already staring at him. Do you want me to? The Second Jade of Lan seems to query.

He tries on a smile then a shrug. I don’t have a say in this.

He doesn’t understand why Lan Wangji’s expression hardens with his response. A glimmer of anger appears behind his eyes. The Yiling Patriarch blinks, then raises at eyebrow. This only makes Lan Wangji even angrier somehow.

They stare at each other for few heartbeats, Wei Wuxian unable to comprehend what has ticked the Twin Jade of Lan off. After a while, resignation appears in Lan Wangji’s face.

From the corner of his peripheral vision, Lan Sizhui is shaking his head in disbelief, while Lan Jingyi is muttering, “Idiot,” over and over again.

And then Wei Wuxian’s world seem to stop when Lan Wangji steps down the stairs.

Lan Qiren seems surprised with the action, staring at his nephew. Lan Xichen has an open expression of shock on his face as well. Wei Wuxian could do nothing but watch as the Second Jade of Lan descends the steps until he is in front of Gen Lei.

The entire room holds their breath, waiting for the verdict.

Lan Wangji casts Wei Wuxian one last look before stepping back and bowing, his hands cupping around the box in Gen Lei’s hands.

Acceptance.

Chapter Text

The Second Young Master of Lan and the Young Master of Gen are of almost the same height when they straighten up. With them the centre of the room and the centre of attention, the room suddenly seemed small.

Wei Wuxian’s hands clench into fists on his sides as he could only watch Lan Wangji accept the box from Gen Lei’s outstretched hands. “Thank you, Young Master Gen for your kind words. It is a great honour to receive your admiration and declaration.”

“Thank you for hearing me out, Second Young Master Lan.” He reaches for the box. “Here, let me.” Gen Lei takes off the top, revealing an intricate silver hairpiece inside, guarded by small paper flowers to ensure its safety inside the box. He takes the gift out and offers it to Lan Wangji. The hairpiece is almost as tall as Lan Wangji’s other hair pieces, however it is almost like a small silver crown, with the tips decorated with gold. It has three embossed magnolia, with the biggest in the centre, and each flower’s centre is decorated with a shiny, polished jade. The gaps in between the hairpiece are intricate webs resembling feathers.

Lan Wangji strokes the centre-most magnolia, lingering on the jade. “It is stunning.”

“I heard that your favourite flower is magnolia. And the jade…because I cannot resist,” Gen Lei admits, chuckling. He seems to light up when Lan Wangji continues to stare at it.

“It will be treasured.”

Lan Qiren stands from his seat and descends a step. “Wangji, I leave the decision up to you.”

The one time he needs his voice, and Wei Wuxian seems to lose it. He swallows thrice but couldn’t find the words. Please. Lan Zhan, please. Please.

Please what? He and Lan Wangji are friends. What exactly does he want to happen?

Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi are openly shaking their heads from a side, the latter almost grabbing his sword and throwing it towards the Yiling Patriarch.

Lan Wangji closes his eyes, and takes a deep breath. “I—cannot offer you a definite answer. I have never truly thought of marriage. You seem to be a decent person with genuine intentions. I just cannot give an acceptance without properly knowing you.”

“Then, may I first court you?” Gen Lei responds eagerly.

A conflicted expression passes Lan Wangji’s face. “I cannot promise a pleasant time. I am certain you know of my reputation.”

The suitor places a hand over where his heart is. “I am willing to try.”

The Second Jade of Lan looks from the gift in his hand, to his Uncle, to Lan Xichen, the occupants of this room, then his eyes land on Wei Wuxian. Their eyes meet, but for the first time since Wei Wuxian resurrected, they can’t seem to communicate.

Lan Wangji seems to come into a decision upon seeing the Yiling Patriarch’s reaction, turning forward, and inclining his head. “I accept.”

Wei Wuxian feels his world falling apart with those two words.

Gen Lei’s cheeks are flushed, and his smile is over the moon as he bows one more time in the centre of the room. His happiness is palpable from where everyone stands.

They have come into a decision: that Gen Lei is given six months to court Lan Wangji, and by the end of this time period, he could give his final decision. Whatever his choice will be in the future, their alliance will continue onwards without hard feelings. Gen Lei’s official courtship will begin at the same time the GusuLan Sect’s lectures begin, which is next week, so that he would be able to guide and watch over his cultivators while also visiting Lan Wangji.

The MeilinGen Sect departs during sunset, befitting, as Lan Qiren, Lan Xichen, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian see them off. Gen Lei hops onto his horse, and smiles down at Lan Wangji, who is staring at the animal’s beautiful fur. “His name is Bai. He’s fairly friendly.”

Lan Wangji comprehends the hidden meaning, and approaches the horse. Bai sniffs the Second Jade of Lan’s hand before nuzzling into his palm. Pleased, Lan Wangji scratches it under his chin.

“I should have guessed animals love you too,” Gen Lei murmurs with exasperation. “Don’t get him too attached, I might not have a ride home.”

Lan Wangji steps back after one last scratch under Bai’s chin. “Have a safe trip.”

Wei Wuxian pouts as he stubbornly refuses to look at Gen Lei’s lovestruck eyes, instead gazing at Lan Wangji’s ethereal beauty under an orange sunset. His hair is flowing with the wind, his hair piece shining, and his robes grazing the ground. This man has killed hundreds – even thousands, but he seems so pure. Wei Wuxian’s heart aches looking at him.

I can look, look and look.

But can I touch?

Startling him, a hand wraps around his wrist. He blinks and realizes their guests have departed, and Lan Wangji is in front of him, holding onto his wrist with a concerned expression. “Wei Ying?”

I can hear and listen.

But can I ask him to only say my name?

“Lan Zhan.”

Automatic, he gets a response. “Wei Ying.”

His heart aching, he smiles at Lan Wangji. “I’m hungry.”

Lan Wangji blinks, then looks to the side – his own version of rolling his eyes. “When are you not?”

Laughing at the normalcy of their conversation despite everything that just happened, Wei Wuxian uses the hold around him to pull Lan Wangji inside the gate of Cloud Recesses. “Come on, come on! We might not have a seat if we’re late!”

Lan Wangji follows suit, letting himself be pulled. Wei Wuxian could pull his hand away, but Lan Wangji seems reluctant to let go, so who he is to deny?

Who is he to deny this when all he’s done is deny?

In their idle time right after dinner, Lan Wangji’s presence is called by Lan Xichen into the hanshi where the latter resides. The moment Wei Wuxian is left all alone in the jingshi, the memories of the recent hours return in his mind. He plops himself backward onto the cold, wooden floor and then sighs. “Heh, who would have thought someone would actually offer Lan Zhan marriage?” He rolls over and trails a finger in a space in between the woods, he feels his mood dampening at the glimpse of the hairpiece carefully placed beside Lan Wangji’s guqin. “He deserves it. Someone who would give him everything under the stars.”

His heart feels heavy in his chest at the unexpected addition in their home. The jingshi used to be filled with things that belonged between the two of them. Now, there sits a gift that comes from a foreign land.

He couldn’t bare looking at it anymore, so he stands up and heads for the doors. Just as he opens them, he almost shrieks at finding Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi outside, their white robes strikingly odd from the darkness of the night. “Holy motherfuc—“ He yelps and jumps a feet from the ground, clutching his chest. “I rarely curse, but kids, what the fuck?”

Lan Sizhui’s expression looks torn between being chastised and wanting to laugh. Lan Jingyi is openly laughing, slapping his hands on his thighs while he wheezes. The latter receives a slap upside the head. “Ow!”

Wei Wuxian regains his bearing then leans against the doorframe, crossing his arms over his chest. “So, what brought you over?” He gapes. “Wait, do you want me to teach you how to drink?”

Jingyi scoffs. “As if we needed your help with that.”

Sizhui’s face reddens, stomping onto his friend’s foot to stop him from talking anymore.

The Yiling Patriarch laughs, ruffling the juniors’ hair. “You juniors are such delight!” He grins and taps Chenqing against his arm. “What’s the matter?”

His self-proclaimed son fiddles with his jade token of passage before muttering, “Senior Wei, are you alright with what just happened in the Conference Hall?”

Frankly, he doesn’t know. “I…I am? I mean, it is sudden but what can we do with that?” He lets out a laugh. “Can you believe your Hanguang-Jun is going to be courted? Heavens above!”

“Come on, Senior Wei, answer seriously!” Jingyi grumbles, puffing his cheeks.

“What do you want me to say?”

“We want you to be honest with us.”

He massages his temples. “Kids, I am Lan Zhan’s friend. After everything we’ve been through since we’ve met, I want nothing but best for him. Besides, it’s his marriage we might be talking about – I don’t have a say in it.”

Jingyi stomps a foot on the ground. “You do!”

“Jingyi, your Hanguang-Jun and I are separate individuals. You can’t expect us to be by each other’s side forever, can you?”

“I can!” The junior protests, almost shrieking. “Hanguang-Jun allowed you beside them when we welcomed the MeilinGen Sect. No one gets to stand there except for those in Lan Clan. Hanguang-Jun looked at you before he stepped down the stairs because your opinion mattered.”

Ever since he started his second life, he has taken liberties on being by Lan Wangji’s side. There have been privileges he has received for having the man’s favour on him. Most of the cultivation world knows and has witnessed this. So Wei Wuxian frowns and reiterates, “Yes, I know. And my opinion was that he should do what’s best for him.”

Sizhui places a hand on his friend’s shoulder when he feels Jingyi preparing to burst again. “Senior Wei, do you really think this is best for Hanguang-Jun?”

Heaving a sigh, he looks over his shoulder at the hair piece on the low table. “Lan Zhan deserves it. He deserves someone who would shower him with everything under the stars.” He smiles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. “Your Hanguang-Jun is the greatest person I know. Gen Lei better do a good job courting him. I am Hanguang-Jun’s friend, and friends support each other. His happiness is my happiness.”

“But, you are Hanguang-Jun’s happ—“ Jingyi growls, only to be silenced by Sizhui’s hand. Jingyi and Sizhui have conflicted expressions as they stare at each other, silently communicating. Sizhui shakes his head with pursed lips, making Jingyi’s eyes widen before a sour expression appears on his face. He gently shoves Sizhui’s hand away then glares up at Wei Wuxian, “You are so dumb.”

Jingyi might be right, because Wei Wuxian feels like he just missed an important discussion, yet he has not a single idea what it was about. “I may be. But why?”

Instead of explaining himself, Jingyi crosses his arms over his chest then huffs. “You are so dumb,” He repeats.

Sizhui shakes his head in exasperation, then focuses back on Wei Wuxian. “Alright, we understand. We know and believe that this courtship doesn’t tear you and Hanguang-Jun apart. If it is your wish to support this, then we will too. And when times comes that you are ready to declare your own marriage proposal, we will gladly support you as well.”

A blurred image of something white appears in his mind. He doesn’t get it. “Aiyah, I don’t have any interest to marry, kids.”

Jingyi rolls his eyes. “Sure,” He retorts, sarcastically.

“Hey, tone down your sarcasm, young man!” He scolds, using Chenqing to poke the junior’s side, making him jump with a shriek.

Chuckling, Sizhui bows. “It is almost bed time, we shall now leave you be, Senior Wei. Have a good night.”

Sticking his tongue out, Jingyi grunts, “Good night, pervert.”

Before he could summon Suibian to chop the brat’s hair, his son is already pulling Jingyi away from the jingshi. As they depart, Wei Wuxian could hear Jingyi muttering under his breath. He could only catch snippets of the words, “…so dumb…he blind?...is Hanguang-Jun’s happiness!...will he realize?”

Half an hour before the clock turns to nine, Lan Wangji returns with two jars of Emperor’s Smile. His hair is kept in a loose ponytail, his hair piece already gone. As Wei Wuxian watches him approach, the small smile contagious, he could only wish a week doesn’t pass by quickly.

Let me have him alone for a little longer.

The universe has decided to ignore his wish. Time flows by hastily, Wei Wuxian almost lost track of what day it is until he opens his eyes, turns and sees the hair piece Lan Wangji is placing on top of his head as carefully as possible.

Wei Wuxian chokes, and finds himself rolling onto the ground. Groaning, he rubs his back, sitting up. Opening his eyes, he realizes Lan Wangji has turned, and is staring at him. He would have greeted him ‘good morning,’ but his eyes catch the crown on the Twin Jade of Lan’s head. Scowling, he grumbles, “It’s that day already?”

Lan Wangji sets the hair piece on place with a silver pin. Satisfied with his work, he steps back from the mirror to approach Wei Wuxian. With a hand under his arm, he heaves the Yiling Patriarch back onto the bed. “Mn. It is.”

“A week passed by already,” Wei Wuxian sighs, scratching his nose. He lets himself watch Lan Wangji’s movement around the room, picking up the supplies to polish Bichen’s blade. He sits on the floor beside the Yiling Patriarch’s feet, and starts his routine -- ensuring Bichen is on top condition. The hair piece fits Lan Wangji perfectly, its resemblance to a crown gives the man an untouchable aura. The gold tips also bring more attention to Hanguang-Jun’s golden eyes. The magnolia decorations are made with care, and somehow adds to his companion’s ethereal beauty.

It is striking on Lan Wangji, making him seem perfect.

“Does it not suit me?” Lan Wangji asks, stopping his movements. He lifts his gaze and meets Wei Wuxian’s stare straight.

He shakes his head. “No!” He clicks his tongue. “I mean, yes, it does. It fits you too well, actually.”

“Too well?”

He nods. “Mm. The whole thing screams your name and the titles you are given. It’s perfect for you. You’ve become perfect because of it, somehow?” He sighs, running his hands over his face. “I don’t know if I made sense. It’s just—you’re--not perfect, which is not bad! I’ve seen those imperfections, and realizing this piece gives you this sense of flawlessness, it feels odd.”

Lan Wangji is staring at him with an unreadable expression once he has finished his babbling.

Wei Wuxian starts to feel conscious of the silence until his eyes fall onto Lan Wangji’s ears, noticing how red they have become. Blinking at the realization he has made the Second Jade of Lan blush, he also feels his cheeks starting to heat up.

It is he who looks away first. “I—uh—“

“I will not wear it often.”

“Huh?”

He turns, and sees his companion back to his normal self, polishing his blade expressionless. “It is a heavy piece. I will wear it on Young Master Gen’s presence. However, it is not a practical accessory when night hunting.”

That means Wei Wuxian would see it several more times this coming half year. The thought makes something alike to irritation bubbling in him. Holding it in, he starts his morning routine.

“Wei Ying.”

“Yes, Lan Zhan?”

“Do you want to eat breakfast in here with me?”

They usually dined their meals –especially breakfast-- in the dining hall with the other cultivators, sitting alongside Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen on the head table. He looks over his shoulder, Lan Wangji is looking back at him with a small, hopeful smile. How could I say no to that face?

Wei Wuxian returns it, because Lan Wangji’s smile is severely contagious. “I would love that.”

Let me have him alone for a little longer.

It seems the universe has heard him after all.

Chapter Text

The lecture will officially begin tomorrow, but several of the invited cultivators have begun to arrive in Gusu. For this year, the lecture includes Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi, Jin Ling, Ouyang Zizhen and several more of the junior disciples Wei Wuxian has interacted with before.

The attendees from MeilinGen Sect have arrived mid-morning, Gen Lei leading six, young cultivators from their clan. Considering the buzzing that begins the moment Gen Lei steps into Cloud Recesses, Wei Wuxian figures that the story about the proposal and courtship has spread outside of Gusu. Standing in front of the Yashi, Wei Wuxian plays around with Chenqing as they await Gen Lei’s approach.

Dressed in maroon with scatters of oranges around the sleeves, the Young Master and Sect Leader of MeilinGen strides forward radiating nervousness. Sword sheathed on his back, he stops in front of them, cups his left hand over his right and with posture learnt and ingrained since childhood, Gen Lei bows. “Grand Master Lan, Zewu-Jun, Yiling Patriarch, I appreciate your personal welcome.”

The three of them move in tandem as they give him salutes of their own. In everyone’s behalf, Lan Xichen steps up to greet him back, “Young Master Gen, welcome to Cloud Recesses. I hope you have found your travels safe. The dormitory is open for the cultivators to stay in for tomorrow’s lecture. We have also prepared a room for your stay, however long it may be. May you find Cloud Recesses unforgettable.”

Gen Lei nods with a smile. “Thank you for your troubles, I’m certain Cloud Recesses will be unforgettable.” Smile widening, he moves a little to address Lan Wangji, standing silently in the furthest right, bowing yet again. “It brings me great happiness to see you again, Hanguang-Jun.”

Lan Wangji returns the gesture. “Your presence is an honor, Young Master Gen.”

They stand upright at the same time, and Gen Lei’s eyes catch the unmistakeable hair piece sitting on top of Lan Wangji’s head. Wei Wuxian could almost hear the man’s thundering heart beat from where he is, he couldn’t help discretely rolling his eyes at the blatant display of affection in the man’s eyes. “You are wearing it.”

Hand raising to touch the accessory, the Second Jade of Lan nods. “I did promise to treasure it.”

A beat. “It’s heavy, isn’t it?” Gen Lei asks, teasing, eyebrow raised. When they hear neither denial nor agreement to his question, he chuckles. “Trust me, I know. I carried that thing in my robe, afraid a quankin pouch would destroy it. It almost pulled my robe off.”

Amusement can be seen in the Twin Jade of Lan’s eyes despite his blank expression. “That would have made your visit…interesting.”

Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren’s eyes are moving from one to another, surprise evident. It is rare for Lan Wangji to interact in a casual conversation after all.

Wei Wuxian’s mood is turning for the worse, his agitation showing with how much Chenqing rotates around his fingers, his eyes boring a hole in Gen Lei’s head. A miscalculation makes him lose his hold around his flute, and it clatters onto the ground. The traitorous thing rolls over towards Lan Wangji, seeking the man. He would feel embarrassed, but he isn’t. He straightens up and chuckles weakly. “Sorry, sorry.”

Lan Wangji bends over to pick it up, using the sleeve of his own robes to dust Chenqing off. The simple gesture makes Wei Wuxian’s throat dry. “Here.” He hands it over, the other hand cupping the lotus keychain with care. Damn this man and his kindness!

Steadying his hand, he accepts it back. “Thanks, Lan Zhan!” He can feel several eyes on him, but he focuses on one pair. Gen Lei’s still smiling, yet Wei Wuxian is not stupid enough not to feel the man’s slight annoyance at the interruption. “Young Master Gen, the fated day has arrived. Are you prepared for the gruelling task of courting and hoping to get any sort of reaction from Hanguang-Jun?”

Lan Qiren scoffs beside him.

Gen Lei is not easily intimidated. “I am.”

Alright, he’s persistent.

On cue, Gen Lei turns around to whisper towards one of his companions. The junior smiles and hands over two quality pouches with golden strings tied into perfect bows. They both are sky blue with an embellished violet orchid on their front and back. He addresses Lan Wangji again, and offers one of the pouches towards him, hands gently cupping its bottom. “To make my courtship official, I humbly present you my gift.”

The Second Jade of Lan steps forward, following Gen Lei on how to hold the pouch. “Young Master Gen, I appreciate this. Do know that you are not obligated to bring me gifts every time you visit Cloud Recesses; as my courtesy name imply, I try not to be attached to mortal, material things. However, I appreciate them.”

Gen Lei shakes his head. “I know. I just felt it befitting for the moment, however, I assure you my courtship isn’t all about showering you with material gifts. I have voiced out my intent to know you better after all.”

Nodding, Lan Wangji opens the pouch, gentle with the string. With it placed on one palm, he pulls the pouch open – revealing a small silver box. When he lifts the top off, they all startle when tiny silver butterflies start to fly around them, their wings leaving a trail of something alike to stardust. Lan Wangji reaches for one, and it lands on his finger, flapping its wings. One of them has taken a liking to his crown, revolving around the magnolia center.

Wei Wuxian tilts his head at the gift, wondering how it was created. It seems almost similar to his Demon-Scattering Talisman, except these butterflies do not burst. He goes cross-eyed when one lands on top of his nose. He tries to scrunch his nose but it wouldn’t budge, making him sneeze. A corner of Lan Wangji’s lips is upturned, watching him with amusement.

“They will come out of the box every time you open the lid, and disappear immediately when you close it. They will stay out for maximum of half an hour then will slowly disappear, resting for the other half hour. Just close it, then you can let them out again. They are great company especially when you’re doing Chief Cultivator duties,” Gen Lei assures watching Lan Wangji stare at the butterfly on his finger with unconcealed fondness. “I hope it is to your liking.”

Lan Wangji regains his composure. “It is. Thank you.”

Afterwards, Gen Lei hands over the remaining pouch towards Lan Qiren. “Grand Master Lan, I heard that you grow some of your food yourselves. Our Sect has discovered a combination of herbs that help plants grow quicker and more fertile with just a little bit help of our spiritual energy. Just a sprinkle thrown at the field is enough daily.” He presents the pouch with a proud smile. “This will be enough for two seasons.”

Grand Master Lan accepts it, inclining his head. “This will truly be a big help.”

Gen Lei looks over his shoulders, at his cultivators who are watching the whole thing with patient smiles, and nods. He turns forward and lowers his head. “We have been traveling for a while. May I excuse myself to accompany my cultivators towards the dormitory?”

Lan Xichen gestures towards the direction of the dormitory. “I shall guide you there. Come.”

The guest steps closer to Lan Wangji, and smiles wide. “I will see you later?”

Lan Wangji nods. “I will be here, Young Master Gen.”

Gen Lei subtly casts a glance at Wei Wuxian before stroking the butterfly on Lan Wangji’s finger. “You can call me Gen Lei.”

Before the Second Jade of Lan absorbs this, the other is already walking hastily towards where Lan Xichen and the MeilinGen cultivators have gone.

Lan Qiren seems to want to say something, takes a look at Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, then changes his mind. He turns towards where he resides and leaves. The two of them watch his retreating figure before facing the crowd that has gathered and watched everything.

Summoning his authority, Lan Wangji’s expression hardens as he lets his eyes travel from one side to another. The GusuLan Sect disciples and guest cultivators sense the meaning, and immediately scatter. Wei Wuxian sees Jingyi trip over Ouyang’s robes, running away from Hanguang-Jun and the possible punishment for gossiping.

The silver butterfly is still resting on his nose and he is about to swat it away when Lan Wangji reaches over with the finger where his own butterfly is settled. Instead of leaving, the butterfly leaves Lan Wangji to accompany the other one on Wei Wuxian’s nose. “Hey!” He protests, scrunching his nose to make them leave.

He hears a huff of stifled laughter, and sees an evident smile on the Second Jade of Lan’s face. He has seen this expression before, after Guanyin Temple – when Sizhui was insisting that Wei Wuxian taught him some indecent things when he was still young.

“Stop laughing at me!” He grumbles.

“You laugh at me. Why can’t I?”

“I’m the Yiling Patriarch, feared by all!”

Lan Wangji doesn’t respond, just merely looks at the silver butterflies sitting on Wei Wuxian’s nose.

His eyes narrow. “What?”

But the other is already turning away, hiding his face. “Nothing.”

“Hanguang-Jun, close that box this instant!”

There is no running in Cloud Recesses, but apparently, Lan Wangji is an expert at quick walking which is a second away from running, making Wei Wuxian suffer with the butterflies (who love his nose for some reason) for the remaining minutes they are out.

It is around lunch when Gen Lei seeks Lan Wangji again, looking like a lost puppy when he doesn’t see the Second Jade of Lan beside Wei Wuxian. He has an inkling that the man has made him the Hanguang-Jun tracking device. He chuckles weakly and points at where Sizhui and Jingyi are seated.

Gen Lei follows his finger, and lets out a sigh of relief. “I thought he has run away because of my straightforwardness this morning.” He blinks then address him with a bow. “Excuse me. I forgot to salute, Young Master Wei.”

He makes a dismissive gesture. “It’s alright. Forego the formalities with me.” At the other’s nod of gratitude, they both turn to look at where Lan Wangji is kneeling before his junior disciples, giving them instructions on how to cast a specific spell that they have been studying for the past week. He looks at Gen Lei through the corner of his eyes, and finds Gen Lei watching Lan Wangji with an open expression of affection.

He wonders how Gen Lei sees Lan Wangji. If the vision he had was comparable to Wei Wuxian’s.

And why should it matter if it weren’t?

“Young Master Wei,” Gen Lei murmurs, turning towards him. “You’re fairly close with Hanguang-Jun. I need your honest opinion.”

Oh, heavens and earth. Give me strength. I have not been resurrected to become a matchmaker.

“On what, Young Master Gen?”

“Do you think I have a chance with Second Young Master Lan?”

That isn’t the question he expected.

“I—“ He starts, looks at Lan Wangji’s direction and sees the hair piece on his head. “I—“

Selfishly, I don’t want you to.

He looks down on the ground, finding the right words. “Lan Zhan has three categories he sets people apart into. There are those who he detest, there are those who is indifferent with, and there are those who – um, you can say he likes or along that line anyway. I can’t answer whether you have certain chance, Young Master Gen, but I am fairly sure you fall in between the last two categories, and that is something.”

Gen Lei seems pleased with his response, cheeks tinting rose. After a while, he addresses Wei Wuxian with a serious look. “And where do you fall in those categories, Young Master Wei?”

It takes him several heart beats before his mind catches up to the question. He feels the gravity of the conversation, and he tries to ease off the atmosphere with a chuckle. “I am in the middle of those two categories as well, Young Master Gen. Frankly, I don’t know how I ended up there.”

Gen Lei considers his answer, humming. Then his eyes alight with something akin to challenge. “I see. Then, I guess, we’ll see who reaches the last category first.”

“…What?”

But Gen Lei is already on his feet, approaching Lan Wangji to offer his company for lunch. With a nod of farewell at the juniors, Lan Wangji stands up and follows to head table. Lan Qiren, taking duty with welcoming the incoming Sects, leaves Wei Wuxian with the Twin Jades of Lan and the Sect Leader of MeilinGen Sect. Seated in front of Lan Xichen, he and Zewu-Jun converse with casual topics as Gen Lei try to coax responses from Lan Wangji beside them.

In the middle of their meal, Lan Xichen sighs and reaches for a spoonful of Wei Wuxian’s imported chili flakes, which Lan Wangji personally procured for him and his high spice tolerance. The Older Jade of Lan sprinkles it over his main dish then digs in, humming his assent. “With the right amount, this does make a meal interesting.”

He couldn’t his laughter at Zewu-Jun’s pleasantly surprised expression. “Zewu-Jun, you keep on surprising me! First, that visit in Yunmeng then this tolerance to spice. Who are you?”

Something clatters on the ground, and they turn their heads seeing Lan Wangji’s getting distracted, his sleeve catching on the edge of the table, and losing his hold over the tea pot. The lid isn’t sealed yet, and as he topples it, the boiling liquid drops onto his other arm. Lan Wangji’s expression barely changes but Wei Wuxian notices the brief clenching of jaw.

In a split second, before anyone else can react, Wei Wuxian has gone around the table, reaching for Lan Wangji’s arm to inspect the injury. The skin is raw and red, and will bubble if not tended to early. “Sizhui, ask the kitchen for ice and cold water. Jingyi, grab a clean washcloth and a water basin.” He pulls the sleeve of the robes upward, detaching it from the burnt skin.

“It’s fine, Wei Ying.”

“Shut up.”

“But it is fine.”

“You would have done the same for me, so keep that mouth shut.”

He receives a kick on his shin due to his tone, so he reiterates by pinching the skin in the crook of Lan Wangji’s elbow. That gets him another kick, and he is contemplating biting the arm in his hand when a washcloth slaps his face.

“Alright, alright, do you need us to act as the adults right now?” Jingyi interrupts. He gives Wei Wuxian a look that screams, “You are so dumb.” He wasn’t the one who dropped the tea pot, damn this brat.

Almost ten minutes later, Lan Wangji’s arm has turned slightly pinkish and has become numb. He places the injured arm on his lap, and nods his gratitude at the junior disciples. Because he is half incapitated, Wei Wuxian fixes another pot of tea for him, pouring a cup. “There you go.”

Lan Wangji is straring at the cup with the same unreadable expression as this morning when Wei Wuxian blabbled about the hair piece. He looks at Wei Wuxian then quickly looks back at the cup. “Thank you.” That’s when the Yiling Patriarch realizes this is the first time he has ever served Lan Wangji in his second life. And that they are still surrounded by people. He scrambles back to his seat, gulping down a cup of water because he has become dehydrated with the heat enveloping his neck upwards that came out of nowhere

Lan Xichen has a small smile on his face, shaking his head slightly as he picks up another spoonful of his meal. Lan Wangji takes a sip of his tea and resumes his own meal, as if nothing happened. Wei Wuxian feels eyes on him, and notes the side-eye Gen Lei is throwing at him. He doesn’t seem upset, he just has the same expression as when he asked,

“And where do you fall in those categories, Young Master Wei?”

Wei Wuxian grits his teeth and continues to devour his own food.

He glances at Lan Wangji through his fringe, his gut clenching with a question he couldn’t get an answer from, Why do I badly want to cross into that third category all of a sudden?

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian somehow becomes Gen Lei and Lan Wangji’s chaperone. Sometimes, the pair knows he is with them. There are times they are unaware of his presence, lurking in the background. Gen Lei has been in Cloud Recesses for almost two weeks, and so far, Wei Wuxian hasn’t seen anything suspicious with his intentions. He seems to genuinely desire to court Lan Wangji.

And courting he does.

Despite Lan Wangji’s quiet nature, Gen Lei is not disheartened – taking pleasures with short responses and of not being shooed away. He is not a lost puppy, more like a devoted—Wei Wuxian’s mind stops. Devoted what?

He’s still in courtship. He hasn’t crossed into the third category just yet.

Wei Wuxian typically watches from the sideline, often longing for the same openness Gen Lei has regarding his interest towards Lan Wangji. Even if Wei Wuxian and the Second Jade of Lan are close, there are boundaries that restrict them, especially considering that he is the Yiling Patriarch and the other is Hanguang-Jun.

On this particular day, he feels the barrier. The three of them are in the GusuLan Administrative Office accompanying Lan Wangji, who is going over his paperworks as the Chief Cultivator. Gen Lei doesn’t have much knowledge about the correspondences piled on Lan Wangji’s desk so he settles with being a silent company.

Wei Wuxian feels suffocated, unable to ignore the clench of his heart at seeing his usual place occupied by someone else. He doesn’t understand where the yearning to be in that seat comes from. It’s a sitting mat across Lan Wangji, why does it hold such significance that he can’t sit there anymore?

His eyes turn towards the doors. Perhaps he should leave. He has been nothing but a nuisance in this pair’s life since the courtship begun after all.

Just as he is about to stand, Lan Wangji’s deep voice resonates around the room, “Wei Ying.”

No one has ever said his name like Lan Wangji does. And he can’t not turn.

“Did you know that one of the lotus lakes in Yunmeng is being sold? Owner is retiring. He wants someone worthy to take care of it,” He says, lifting an opened letter.

Crawling, he eagerly plops himself onto Lan Wangji’s back to read the letter over the Twin Jade of Lan’s shoulder. “Ooh, that’s the lake we stole lotus seeds from before Guanyin Temple!” He exclaims, laughing. He sighs and hooks his chin on his companion’s shoulder. “Too bad he’s selling it. I remember playing there, and stealing lotus seeds when they are in season. I wonder if the next owner would be as lenient.”

“He could be,” Lan Wangji utters.

He turns his head, and tilts it.

Realization hits him after a full minute.

He gapes at Lan Wangji, almost sending them toppling onto the table with his excitement when he leans closer to look at the other’s face. “No way. Wait, really?”

“The lotus seeds there are tasty,” Lan Wangji comments, signing something at the bottom of a letter he somehow managed to write –elegantly—while they were conversing, and while Wei Wuxian was on his shoulder.

He grins as he sees a familiar scrawl of the esteemed Hanguang-Jun’s signature. “Damn, Jiang Cheng won’t be happy when he finds out you bought one of Lotus Pier’s lotus lakes.”

“Good.”

Laughing until he is in tears, Wei Wuxian couldn’t help his delight as he rocks them back and forth, his chin hooked on Lan Wangji’s shoulder. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan.”

It takes ten more of his names before Lan Wangji grows tired, and steadies them both by placing a hand on top of Wei Wuxian’s head. He turns his head, and says, “Behave.”

He shouldn’t feel so hot hearing that word spoken towards him with that tone, but damn, he does. Lan Wangji’s voice is uniquely deep, and like his instrument, it reverberates whenever he speaks. Combined with being stared at intensely, the command somehow makes him obey and melt.

They stay in that position for several moments before someone clears his throat. The foreign sound makes Wei Wuxian plummet himself towards the door, clinging for dear life. Heaving for breath –because he lost it while he is compliant with Lan Wangji’s words—he recalls that Gen Lei is the in the same room as them.

Lan Wangji’s cheeks are flushed when he also seems to realize they weren’t alone. He goes to his feet then bows lowly. “I apologize for our conduct, Young—“

“Gen Lei,” Their guest interrupts, standing up as well to halt Lan Wangji’s movement. “Please rise up, I do not deserve this.” When Hanguang-Jun stands upright, he releases a chuckle at Lan Wangji’s reproached look. “I heard you don’t like being touched, but you have ink on your nose and cheek, and it begs to be wiped off.”

Wei Wuxian watches, still composing himself, Lan Wangji nod, albeit reluctantly.

Gen Lei smiles, retrieves a thin, silk cloth folded neatly. With a little hesitation, he reaches for Lan Wangji’s nose first. He gently pads off the smudge before continuing to the cheek. His eyes are trained on his objective but he slowly raises them to meet Lan Wangji’s gaze. “I—I wouldn’t pretend that I’m not jealous of the closeness you and Wei Wuxian has established. Honestly, sometimes, I feel left out, wondering if I was missing something.”

Missing something? He repeats internally, confused.

The Meilin Gen Sect leader looks from Wei Wuxian’s face back to Lan Wangji. “But it seems it isn’t me who is missing something. I am not disheartened, Young Master Lan. I can’t force you out of shell all of the time, but when you’re comfortable with either of my or Wei Wuxian’s presence, it shows who you are beneath the cold exterior. I believe I just have to work a little harder.” He finishes wiping the ink off, grinning at the pristine Lan Wangji. “Right?”

With the cloth still lightly pressed against his cheek, Lan Wangji closes his eyes. “Still, I’m sorry…” He pauses. “And thank you.”

That night, Gen Lei is scheduled to return to Meilin for his Sect Leader duties. His young cultivators have settled into their lecture life in Cloud Recesses, and he has neglected his duties to start his courtship towards Lan Wangji for a fortnight. Meilin could only be left alone for so long.

Hopping onto Bai, Gen Lei runs his hand on his horse’s fur. He looks at the entrance of Cloud Recesses, a sad smile on his face when he faces his departure party: Lan Qiren, Lan Xichen, Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi and Wei Wuxian stand on his left. Lan Wangji is on his right, surrendering to Bai and his necessities for scratches. “See? Even Bai doesn’t want to leave,” Gen Lei sighs.

Wei Wuxian is impressed with the man – he is almost the same age as them but he has retained a certain open mindset, making him seem younger. He has a lively spirit, not worn down by his duties and the wars he’s been in. He is a patient and understanding man, but Wei Wuxian knows he doesn’t want to cross him.

“Thank you for a wonderful fortnight. I have arrived filled with anxiety, but I am now departing with longing to stay. My people need my guidance, but I shall return in a week’s time. I send you my advanced apology for the trouble.”

Lan Xichen chuckles. “Young Master Gen, you are always welcome in Cloud Recesses.”

Lan Qiren huffs. “You’re hardly a troublesome guest, Gen Lei.” Unlike someone, says the elder’s side glance towards Wei Wuxian. He pretends not to see it. “You can return whenever.”

Gen Lei inclines his head in thanks. Lan Wangji raises his gaze from Bai when he feels eyes on him. Wei Wuxian has to bite his tongue not to scream in frustration when Gen Lei leans down so that Lan Wangji’s neck wouldn’t hurt from looking up at him. “Hanguang-Jun, the past two weeks have been such a gift. I can say with certainty that I have not a single drop of regret at choosing to court you. Pestering you was a delight.” He receives an unimpressed look, making him laugh. “I look forward to seeing you in a week’s time.”

All eyes land on Lan Wangji, waiting. The man looks at the ground, then inclines his head. An assent.

In the corner of his eyes, he sees Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui exchanging panicked looks. Lan Qiren is stroking his beard with a thoughtful expression. Lan Xichen closes his eyes, letting it play out. Wei Wuxian, on the other hand, couldn’t take his eyes off them.

The moment in the Administrative Office seems a lifetime away, watching them. That shouldn’t hurt so much.

With one last smile, Gen Lei waves a hand as Bai begins their journey. “See you again soon, everyone! Take care of yourself, Hanguang-Ju—“

“Lan Wangji,” Lan Wangji interjects.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t help gaping at him at the interruption, of what caused Lan Wangji to interrupt.

Zewu-Jun is staring at his brother, lips parted in surprise. Lan Sizhui and Jingyi are clinging to each other, frowning. Lan Qiren’s expression seems torn between pleased and conflicted, pursing his lips.

Bai almost sends Gen Lei onto the ground when the MeilinGen Sect leader pulls him to a sudden stop. He doesn’t turn but his shoulders stiffen. “Truly?” The wind carries his shaking voice to them.

“I won’t repeat myself, Gen Lei.”

Bai resumes their journey. The delight in his voice carries all around the mountain when Gen Lei bids, “Take care of yourself, Lan Wangji!”

As the figure disappears, Wei Wuxian couldn’t keep it in any longer, “Lan Zhan.”

Lan Zhan immediately turns. “Mn.”

“Lan Zhan,” He repeats, voice cracking.

“Wei Ying.”

“Lan Zhan.”

A name.

It is just a name, but it is a name that his lips have spoken thousands of times.

It is just a name, but it is also accompanied with a memory of the Library Pavilion – of a stubborn man who continued to ignore him until his birth name was uttered.

It is just a name, but it holds so much comfort on the days he felt so lonely.

Lan Wangji walks towards him, stopping a feet away. Mirroring the Second Jade of Lan three weeks ago, Wei Wuxian wraps a hand around Lan Wangji’s wrist, grasping it – waiting to be pushed away, yet he remains. He lets his head fall onto Lan Wangji’s shoulder, suddenly exhausted.

It is just a name, but it is the man who has stood by him, fought by him, scolded him, believed in him, and continues to stay by him.

Don’t give ‘Lan Zhan’ away.

It is a day before Gen Lei arrives back into Cloud Recesses, and Wei Wuxian takes the opportunity of their free day to drag Lan Wangji into the Back Mountain. It has become a silent routine for them – to see the bunnies whenever the Second Jade of Lan has an off day. He enjoys taking care of the rabbits, soothing him from the stress of his duties. Wei Wuxian enjoys watching the glimmer in Lan Wangji’s eyes when he cradles bunnies onto his arms.

‘Lil Apple is eating the dewy grasses several feet away, a pair of bunnies hopping around where he stands. He seems to get along well with the little creatures, making him less irritable.

Wei Wuxian sits down on the rock he has sat on a lifetime ago, just right before he ran after Lan Wangji to search for other shards of Yin Iron. He looks around him, and remembers how he threw a rabbit onto a younger Jiang Cheng, while Jiang Yanli sat a couple of feet away, playing with a rabbit of her own. How fresh the memory seems.

He is brought back to reality when a small nose bumps onto his own. Blinking, he realizes Lan Wangji is standing in front of him, holding onto a bunny and leaning the creature’s nose against Wei Wuxian’s. “The bunny says no to sadness.”

It sounds so ridiculous out of Lan Wangji’s mouth that he cannot help laughing, startling some bunnies away.

He accepts the rabbit and places it on his lap. He grabs Lan Wangji’s arm and pulls him down, making the man stumble down to sitting down beside him. That earns him a glare he ignores. Pulling his hand away, he uses both hands to smooth out the bunny’s fur.

“You know, after our lecture, I was mulling over whether to bring them to Lotus Pier with us.”

Lan Wangji hums. “Why didn’t you?”

He smiles, lifting the creature up to nuzzle their noses together. The rabbit seems unimpressed. “I thought you might appreciate their company if you were ever lonely in Cloud Recesses.”

When he steals a glance at his companion, Lan Wangji is staring at him with an expression he cannot decipher. It’s a look he has received a lot since their paths met in Dafan Mountain. It’s a look that is somehow a secret only he could keep. It’s a look as precious as a gift. What has he ever done to receive it?

Keeping their eyes at each other, the Second Jade of Lan nods. “I was.”

He has lost track of the conversation, drowning in golden eyes that holds everything in. “You were?”

“Lonely.”

Right now, the proud Lan Wangji sounded so young. Their lot were thrown into two wars when they were barely twenty-one, one of them dying and the other punished and secluded. He has left a brother who tended to their nephew after their sister and her husband died, the world thinking he was the one who has caused his brother’s death from the cliff. Lan Wangji has taken in a child, killed his ‘allies’ and guarded a place with ferocity causing his back to be stained forever. They barely grew up before they had to.

Being kept in a place as rigid as Cloud Recesses, Lan Wangji must have been so lonely.

He hates seeing that cloud shadowing his companion’s expression, so he goes and tramples it. Lan Wangji could only hiss, “Wei Ying, what—“ before he’s being shoved onto the ground. Before he could sit back up, Wei Wuxian has fetched as much rabbits as he could carry, placing them on the Second Jade of Lan’s face. “Wei—mmph!”

Hurriedly, he gathers the remaining creatures and drowns Lan Wangji with them. The bunnies are happy with the duty they are given, nuzzling every inch they could of their owner. He watches over as Lan Wangji surrenders, and lets himself be tickled with the rabbits’ whiskers. One hops onto his hair and used it as its sleeping mat. He is glaring up at Wei Wuxian, but the latter can’t take him seriously when he’s surrounded with white furry creatures who adore him.

“Hanguang-Jun is defeated by rabbits!” Wei Wuxian declares, laughing.

Lan Wangji rolls his eyes. “How old are you?”

He crouches beside his companion, grinning. He picks up a bunny and places it beside his face. “Bunnies say no to sadness, remember?”

“Your memory is only useful when it’s about being mischievous.”

Laughing, he sits beside Lan Wangji, who has resigned himself into lying down, and looks up at the clear blue sky. He knows it hasn’t been long, but he has missed this – the tranquillity in a world they have created for themselves, the comfort of each other’s company, the present that they now have control of.

“Lan Wangji.”

Lan Wangji whips his head towards him so quickly, the hair piece almost got askew in the process. “What?”

He picks up a stick and pokes the ground with it. “Lan Wangji,” He repeats, snickering. “I’m testing it. I openly call you ‘Lan Zhan,’ disregarding the fact that I should not be allowed to do so.”

“Yiling Supervisory Office,” Lan Wangji murmurs, still staring at him.

“Huh?”

“Last time you’ve called me that.”

His mind supplies him of the memory: his return from his three-month stay in Burial Mounds, their revenge against Wen Chao and Wen Zhuliu, a confrontation that ends with a white figure descending the stairs alone – overcome with confusion and grief at what Wei Wuxian has become.

“…you must understand, Young Master Wei, the confusion Wangji felt seeing you practicing crafty tricks – that it reminded him of our mother…”

Neither of them says they don’t like recalling that particular memory.

“Lan Zhan,” Lan Wangji utters after moments of silence, breaking it.

Wei Wuxian lets himself regard the man, lets himself stare, and lets himself be selfish. “Can I?”

Lan Wangji nods. “I own my birth and courtesy names.”

He huffs a laugh. “Lan Zhan,” He breathes, reaching for the sleeping bunny on Lan Wangji’s hair. “I’ll miss being the only who can say that when Gen Lei finally gets to call you that.”

A hand wraps around his wrist. “Only Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji states firmly.

His hand goes lax around Lan Wangji as he tries to regain his footing. For years, they have been addressing each other with their birth names – neither complaining. For years, their names turned from mere names to statements, to questions, to requests and to something akin to lullabies. On this meadow surrounded by rabbits Lan Yi has left them with, they have created a world for themselves. When he has once again opened his eyes to the mortal world, asking Mo Xuanyu why him, he just realized the answer lies before him, the man’s touch burning.

Lan Wangji is Hanguang-Jun, the light-bearer to the cultivation world, the esteemed Second Jade of the GusuLan Sect. He is also Lan Zhan, a lightweight, a loving owner to several dozens of rabbits, and the man who has taken in a child he has barely knew.

Lan Wangji has been Wei Wuxian’s favourite person for a while now, that much he knew. He also knows that he matters a lot to Lan Wangji even if he never understood why – he was annoying. Yet, he has never met a single person who understands him fully, who has treated him as an equal, who dares to call out his bullshit, who sees behind his smile, and who is prepared to save him from himself – until Lan Wangji appeared in his life.

“Wei Ying?”

No one else calls him that anymore. No one else dares to. No one else wants to. Wei Wuxian smiles, and nods. “And only Lan Zhan.”

Shijie, how do you know what makes someone special?

Am I allowed to consider Lan Zhan this special?

He doesn’t have the right to do so, but he will anyway. Because Lan Wangji truly is special.

Wei Wuxian is lounging on a tree branch near the Yashi when Young Master Gen Lei arrives. He sees the bright robes first then a familiar obsidian sword on a figure’s back. Seeing as Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen are tending to today’s lecture in the Lanshi, only Lan Wangji has come to welcome back their guest. Wei Wuxian is still feeling sour at seeing a familiar hair piece on Lan Wangji’s head.

Out of spite, he remains perched on the branch even after Lan Wangji gave him a pointed look before going to the entrance. He returns with Gen Lei beside him, the two conversing about Meilin and its recent abundance in fertile lands. Gen Lei notices Wei Wuxian, gives him an exasperated look that reminded of Jiang Cheng, then the man bows. Damn this man and his good manners, I can’t even find a reason to hate him. “Young Master Wei.”

He just nods back, twirling Chenqing around his fingers.

Lan Wangji merely raises his eyebrows at Wei Wuxian’s misbehaviour and foul mood, focusing back on Gen Lei. “Uncle and brother are in Lanshi. It’s time for the mid-morning break.” Wei Wuxian puffs his cheeks in irritation when the Second Jade of Lan lightly flicks off the single leaf clinging on Gen Lei’s hair. “Maintain your own discipline.”

Wei Wuxian recognizes that as one of the GusuLan Sect’s rules. Gen Lei seems to have studied them too, nodding along with a wide smile. “Yes, Hanguang-Jun!” Their guest answers, imitating the GusuLan cultivators, bowing.

Hanguang-Jun is unimpressed but nonetheless slightly amused, turning away.

“Ay, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian whines. “You’re just leaving me behind like that? How could you? I’m wounded by this disregard!”

Lan Wangji looks to the side, a habit brought by annoyance. “Wei Ying, how old are you?”

Laughing, he looks down to the ground. “Here we—“ Just as he is about to jump down, a hand finds his own and takes some of his weight to easily descend to the ground. His eyes travel from the hand under his to the arm covered by a white robe up to a pair of golden eyes. Lan Wangji has no business being such a gentleman while looking like a god. “Thanks,” Wei Wuxian mumbles.

Alright, heart. You can stop thumping quickly. He literally just helped you down.

Lan Wangji retracts his hand with a nod, then turns towards Gen Lei. “Come.”

Gen Lei seems dejected at the scene until he finds Lan Wangji stopping to wait for Gen Lei. The man tramples his dejection with a familiar look of determination, following after Lan Wangji with a bounce in his steps. “Lan Wangji, I’m staying here for a week. Can you help strengthen my swordsmanship?”

“Mn.”

Wei Wuxian watch them depart, thinking over whether to follow after them or not. He wants to look away but he can’t seem to, his eyes attached on the figure in white robes gliding through Cloud Recesses with light, confident steps.

Behind him, someone scoffs following it with a disgusted tone, “Lan Jingyi wasn’t wrong when he told Jin Ling that the Yiling Patriarch is dumb. This brings me back memories I would have been more thankful to forget about.”

“Give Brother Wei a break, Jiang Cheng, he is a genius except when it comes to his own feelings after all. We suffered through it twenty years ago,” A muffled voice follows.

Turning around, Wei Wuxian is greeted by faces he hasn’t seen for almost two years. A brother he has almost lost from misunderstandings, their own versions of protecting each other, and deaths of loved one they couldn’t bring back. Beside him, a friend who has grown from a timid coward to a mastermind behind a veiled mask -- who has wanted nothing but revenge for his own murdered brother and to continue his brother’s legacy.

“Jiang Cheng! Nie Huaisang!”

Chapter Text

“A purple angry bean has visited me!” Wei Wuxian declares, opening his arms as he walks towards Jiang Cheng. He sees the crackle of a purple lightning before Zidian comes to life. Shrieking, he jumps away when it strikes right where he was standing. “No fighting without reason in Cloud Recesses!” He chides, hiding behind the tree from earlier.

Nie Huaisang chuckles behind his opened fan, watching them with delight. “These three thousand rules have never stopped you, Brother Wei.”

“Four thousand,” He corrects, peeking to find out if Zidian has returned into a ring. When he sees Jiang Cheng scoffing while looking away, he steps out of his hiding place, hands on his hips.

“Eighteen years later, and only a thousand has been added? I’m baffled,” The YungmengJiang Sect leader remarks with a sarcastic tone. “You in here? There should have been six thousand by now.”

“I think Grand Master Lan knows of how much trouble writing down two thousand more is, so he wrote one rule that applies to everything concerning me: Thou shall not interact with Wei Wuxian.” When Jiang Cheng’s eyebrows rise, he nods solemnly. “It’s true. Everyone pretends it’s not there, and keeps talking to me anyway.”

“Now, that is baffling,” Jiang Cheng snaps.

Rolling his eyes, he pouts. “I am a delight, thank you very much.” Nie Huaisang laughs at this while Jiang Cheng gives him the most insulting scoff to be breathed out in humankind. After all these years, only slight changes could be seen from when they used to study together in Gusu – their bodies have gotten rid of the roundness of their faces to make way for adult structures, the clothes befitting of their higher titles, and the unmistakeable maturity brought by grief and the wars behind their eyes. Everything that happened in Cloud Recesses seems like a lifetime away. For Wei Wuxian, it literally is. “So, what brought you to Cloud Recesses?”

“Jiang Cheng miss--“

“—I will trample you, Nie Huaisang,” Jiang Cheng interjects coldly.

“—Cloud Recesses!” The QingheNie Sect leader finishes, stepping far away from his companion.

Wei Wuxian wouldn’t dwell on what Nie Huaisang’s unsaid words are. Things have been rocky between him and Jiang Cheng since Guanyin Temple, but it is becoming stable as time passes by. They haven’t had any talk regarding everything that happened, and Wei Wuxian doesn’t know whether he even wants one. This is not him running away from the past, but it is him choosing to live his second life from the scratch. He and Jiang Cheng will never be as close as they were when they were younger and that will remain unchanged. Perhaps, someday they will find a steady ground to stand on. For now, he’s happy where they are.

Nie Huaisang breaks off the tension that starts to build up with the silence. Too bad it is a topic Wei Wuxian would rather not have either, “Brother Wei, are the rumors true? There have been hearsays that Hanguang-Jun has received a marriage proposal from the MeilinGen Sect’s very own Gen Lei. What more, I heard that Hanguang-Jun has given his permission to be courted. I mean—yes, we just saw what happened earlier, but is everything true?”

Wei Wuxian doesn’t answer, instead crossing his arms over his chest and kicking a near pebble.

“How could that be?” Huaisang gasps, fanning himself profusely, eyes darting from Wei Wuxian towards where Lan Wangji and Gen Lei have disappeared to. “He’s Lan Wangji! The esteemed Hanguang-Jun, it seems unbelievable that he will let himself be—He’s Lan Wangji!”

“Yes, Huaisang, we heard you the first time,” Wei Wuxian says tiredly.

Yet, the man continues rumbling behind his fan, “Brother Wei, I heard stories about Gen Lei and they are all good ones. I researched, and that just made me like the guy! What do we do, what do we do, what do we do, Brother Wei?”

“Why are you panicking, Huaisang?” Jiang Cheng asks with incredulity. “It’s not like you are the one he’s courting. Isn’t it great that he’s a nice person? Do you want Lan Wangji married off to an evil person? Although, let’s be real here, Lan Wangji has nothing to fear. He is the one feared.”

Huaisang has gone in front of Wei Wuxian, closing his fan and placing his hands on the latter’s shoulders. Before he knows it, he’s being shaken like a pepper shaker. “Brother Wei, Lan Wangji might be engaged in five months’ time! I don’t know what to do with this information!”

 Lan Wangji might be engaged in five months’ time.

Wei Wuxian reaches for his friend’s arms and forcibly stops their dizzying activity, however fun it is. The sentence repeats itself in his head. He manages a chuckle after pushing Huaisang’s hands away. “Huaisang, oh, Huaisang, Young Master Gen truly is a decent man. I’ve met him. I’ve talked to him. They have similarities, and the guy is patient with Lan Zhan’s habit of being silent. You didn’t need to research to find out how nice he is.”

Lan Wangji might be engaged in five months’ time.

Jiang Cheng furrows his eyebrows, throwing him a dubious look. “Who are you, and where did you hide Wei Wuxian?” He growls. At Wei Wuxian’s confused reaction, he continues, “Are you a fucking idiot? Over twenty years ago you’ve done nothing but pester Lan Wangji into noticing you and making him your friend. You’ve followed after him to search for Yin Iron shards. You’ve fought against Xuanwu together. After you returned into the mortal world, nothing can separate you two. Everytime one of you pulls away, the other pulls him back. Now, all of sudden you’ve decided that you will keep your mouth shut after not stopping talking about Lan Wangji for decades!”

Huaisang springs himself onto Wei Wuxian’s back. “It’s true, Brother Wei. Gen Lei is a nice fellow, but you’ve been here longer.”

“You two,” He sighs. “Why are so insistent on me breaking them off? Shouldn’t I be happy on his behalf?”

“What about you, though?” Jiang Cheng asks, his voice transforms from irritation to concern.

A beat, and he blinks. “What about me?”

Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng gives him a full minute, waiting for him to get what they meant. When he merely stares back at them, the two exchange a look. It reminds him of Sizhui and Jingyi’s silent conversation. However, this time, both turn to him to say loudly, “You are so –fucking—dumb.”

He isn’t given enough time to protest before Nie Huaisang is back on his charade of ranting, “Although we can’t only blame Brother Wei. Hanguang-Jun must have also been blind to the truth all this time.”

“Are you kidding me? Have you seen him? Is that the look of someone who has been naïve with himself? He almost defected for Wei Wuxian!” Jiang Cheng hisses.

“Oh, yeah, fair enough.” Huaisang opens his fan and lightly fans himself, movements slow and lazy. “Ah! I think Hanguang-Jun is just very bad at communicating.” Shaking his head, he sighs dreamily. “It’s not unknown to every land that he is not good with words.”

“Which means he might have expressed it through actions instead?” Jiang Cheng catches up.

Wei Wuxian is left miles away. “Guys, what—“

“He has to use words at some point,” The YungmengJiang Sect leader grumbles, rolling his eyes.

“But Brother Wei also have to crack open his skull at some point,” Huaisang grunts back. “So we have come to a conclusion?” He asks, looking displeased with whatever that conclusion is. Jiang Cheng merely rolls his eyes again in agreement.

Wei Wuxian should be rewarded for not jumping when his adoptive brother and his friend turn at him at the same time to snap, “Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are both dumb.”

They pass through the Yashi -- recalling memories, and trying to avoid painful ones, of when they were students -- to visit the Lanshi and see the lecture for themselves. “—and remember how Lan Wangji entered just when you were about to strangle Brother Wei to death? You should have seen Hanguang-Jun’s face at seeing our compromising positions!” Huaisang says, shaking his head with nostalgia.

“Yet, here we are and Lan Wangji might actually get married first amongst us all,” Jiang Cheng grunts, not-so subtly looking at Wei Wuxian.

Taking the bait, he turns around, walking backwards. “Indeed! I guess our generation will just be filled with sad men who will die unmarried except for the only person who we thought would live single his whole life.” He hums and bats his eyelashes teasingly towards his adoptive brother, “Jiang Cheng, will you let yourself die a virgin?”

The YungmengJiang Sect leader stops at his question. A moment passes by, and his face turns from purple to crimson within a second. Zidian comes to life and he grinds out, “Wei Wuxian,” before chasing after him.

Half-shrieking and half-laughing, Wei Wuxian faces front and runs for his life, barely avoiding each strike aimed at him. Huaisang is running after them as well, laughing along.

They arrive in front of Lanshi in record time. Jiang Cheng doesn’t hesitate with his next strike, almost catching Wei Wuxian’s leg who dodges with a hop. “Come back here, you asshole!” Barely stopping for a breath, the YungmengJiang Sect flings himself onto Wei Wuxian.

“No!” Wei Wuxian screams, having nowhere else to run. He takes the only remaining turn and enters the Lanshi, making Lan Xichen stop his lecture. “I’m so sorry, Zewu-Jun, but Jiang Cheng is—Shit!” He jumps from one table to another as Zidian barely misses his side.

He hides in between Sizhui’s and Jingyi’s seat, holding onto their sleeves. “Save me, my children,” He whispers as Jiang Cheng approaches.

“Senior Wei,” Sizhui sighs in fond exasperation. “Sect Leader Jiang, ple – eep!” The junior throws himself to the side when the Zidian doesn’t fail to come in between his and Jingyi’s seat. Jinyi screams beside him, “Holy something and everything else holy!”

Wei Wuxian should not have provoked him, especially when it came to their sexual lives, but he couldn’t resist. “Lan Zhan, save me! I forgot Suibian!” He pleas, running towards where Lan Wangji is seated on the side of the classroom beside Gen Lei. He looks over his shoulder, sees Zidian’s distinctive lightning and knows that his end is near.

Throwing shame out to the wind, he throws himself towards Lan Wangji, hiding underneath the esteemed Hanguang-Jun’s hanging sleeves. He feels energy a feet away from where he hides then hears the strum of fingers against a zither’s strings. Zidian’s attack cracks under the guqin’s power, dispelling and returning into a ring.

When he peeks from Lan Wangji’s extended arm, he finds Jiang Cheng’s collar being pulled back by Lan Xichen. It’s a funny scene, it was as if Lan Xichen was holding onto a cat which is having a hissy fit. Unable to fight back against Zewu-Jun’s perpetual patient smile, the YunmengJiang Sect lets himself be gently pulled towards the center. “Everyone, this is YunmengJiang Sect’s leader Jiang Cheng.”

Face red from embarrassment, Jiang Cheng hastily bows.

“He has used to study in Cloud Recesses with Young Master Wei, Sect Leader Nie Huaisang and Wangji when we were younger. Trust me when I say this is just a preview of what they used to do,” Lan Xichen comments, earning him laughter from the younger cultivators. “Because of these, they have managed to memorize the GusuLan Sect principles easily. Therefore, Sect Leader Jiang will now recite Rule 1001 to 1500, without a word amiss.”

Wei Wuxian begins to laugh, and Nie Huaisang’s shoulders are shaking while he hides outside. But then Zewu-Jun adds, “Sect Leader Nie will recite Rule 1501 to 2500. Young Master Wei will do the Rule 2501 to 3500.”

Jiang Cheng splutters, looks at Lan Xichen’s smile and relents. Nie Huaisang surrenders as well, dejectedly taking a seat on a sitting mat near the entrance to wait his turn.

Wei Wuxian looks up at Lan Wangji for help, but the man is already staring forward, pretending to be a role disciple all of a sudden. Damn it, Lan Zhan. I’ll bite you. Gen Lei is watching the whole spectacle with interest, stifling his laughter. “I can’t imagine how rogue your generation must have been in this classroom. I wish I was able to witness it.”

Lan Wangji blinks, glances briefly at Wei Wuxian before turning to address Gen Lei. “I believe our time in this classroom made the Elders add two hundred once the lecture ended.”

Gen Lei’s eyes widen. His expression holds a question. “And you?”

Here, Lan Wangji hesitates. “I have once drunk Emperor’s Smile and received the bastinados.”

“Bastinados?” Gen Lei repeats, disbelieving.

“Bastinados.”

“How many cups did you drink to get wasted enough to pass out until after five in the morning?”

Blood rises to the Second Jade of Lan’s cheeks. “I believe it was only one.”

Gen Lei couldn’t contain his laughter any longer. “I apologize,” He squeaks, wiping a tear from his eye. “I will keep this information in mind when I take you out. Thankfully, MeilinGen’s drinks are mostly fruit juices, those do not make you drunk, do they?”

Wei Wuxian is hearing everything from where he’s hidden underneath Lan Wangji’s sleeve, gagging at the blatant flirting. He tries to move but Lan Wangji has tightly hooked his arm around his neck, keeping him in place. He squirms, using all his strength to pull away but the man has done handstands while copying GusuLan Sect rules – Wei Wuxian’s struggle is nothing but an ant trying to get away from him. He should feel irritated, but he is actually having fun having half of Lan Wangji’s attention to himself. So he pretends to squirm away, chuckling silently when he gets a pinch once in a while.

“Please do. They don’t.”

Silence remains for several moments, Wei Wuxian given a seat beside Lan Wangji before he could run away. The Second Jade of Lan’s eyes travel towards the small plate of delicacies placed at the edge of his table. “Sweets?”

Gen Lei blinks and turns to him. “Oh! Yes. We don’t have a name for those yet, but Meilin is known for our sweets.”

“These look tasty.”

Wei Wuxian stares at the delicacies, and he agrees.

 “Really? I made them myself,” Gen Lei says proudly.

The Yiling Patriarch suddenly wants to retract his previous internal statement. Anybody can make it with a recipe at hand.

Lan Wangji’s hums appreciatively, eyes never leaving the spherical sweets. “Talented,” He comments.

Alright, Lan Zhan, you can stop being a gentleman now.

Patting the flush away from his cheeks, Gen Lei focuses back on the gift. “This one is sticky rice blended with sugar and milk, rolled into a small sphere. There are assortment of flavors depending on what pulp is added to each sphere.” He scoots closer to point at each one. “This one is peach, then we have berries, this one has grounded nuts in it, then we have loquat—“

“Loquat?” Lan Wangji repeats, realizes that he interrupted, and composes himself. “I apologize. Do continue.”

“You like loquats?” Gen Lei asks, grinning at the new information.

Lan Wangji hesitates, seeming to be caught on a memory. “…It has left an imprint.”

Wei Wuxian wonders what imprint that is. The imprint loquats have on him is of a younger version of himself lounging on a boat, sensing young Lan Wangji’s distress from a boat away and throwing a loquat towards the latter. The graceful way it has been caught and thrown back always brings a smile on his face.

Gen Lei picks one up onto a saucer. “Do you want to try it?”

Lan Wangji nods, accepting the delicacy. He picks it up and goes for small bite behind his sleeve.

“—Oh, you must eat it as a whole—“

The Twin Jade of Lan inhales sharply when sticky liquid bursts from the middle of the delicacy, dripping a little down his chin and onto the table. Wei Wuxian couldn’t help his laughter at the panic in Lan Wangji’s face at the improper decorum he’s shown. Lan Wangji pointedly ignores him, and hurriedly places the remaining bite onto the saucer to search for a cloth or napkin.

Laughing, Gen Lei retrieves a familiar folded cloth with imprints of his Sect’s symbol on it. “The esteemed Hanguang-Jun is baffled by sweets. How terrifying.”

“It has pulp in the middle.”

“How terrifying,” Gen Lei repeats. When Lan Wangji reaches for the cloth, he pulls back. “Let me?”

Lan Wangji gulps, looks from Gen Lei to Wei Wuxian, reluctant. He doesn’t understand why he has a say on it.

A thud saves him from answering. They all turn forward and see Nie Huaisang picking himself up from falling asleep and dropping onto the floor. “I don’t know, I don’t kno—Oh,” His cheeks flush. “Sorry, I fell asleep.”

Jiang Cheng resumes his recitation after brief glance at where they are seated, his eyes holding a question.

Wei Wuxian reaches for Lan Wangji’s arm and used the hanging sleeve to wipe off the man’s chin. The Second Jade of Lan looks disgusted with what he has just done, but he clicks his tongue in admonishment. “Aiyah, shut up. Problem solved. Just change later, maybe into that blue robe? What—why are you looking at me like that? It fits you, okay? You always look like you’re going to a funeral. Now, continue eating. Pretend I’m not here.” He purposely doesn’t look back at Gen Lei.

Instead, he roams his gaze and looks at the rows of students and sees Zizhen, Jin Ling, Jingyi and Sizhui watching them from a single line right in front of them. Zizhen is whispering back and forth with Jingyi, Jin Ling looks a second away from strangling him, and Sizhui has his eyebrows raised, smiling. Wei Wuxian sticks his tongue out at them. His attention returns to where Nie Huaisang, his eyes widening when he realizes his friend has a familiar smirk in place when their gazes meet.

He guesses an old habit of scheming is difficult to get rid of.

Lan Xichen ends the day’s lecture with a notice to their students on what tomorrow’s discussion will be. After a chorus of understanding, the younger cultivators stand up and disperse to different directions, chattering in low voices.

Wei Wuxian stretches his arms over his head, already on his feet since he just finished reciting his part of the GusuLan Sect rules minutes ago. He approaches Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang, laughing about their punishment. He gets a slap upside the head from the YungmengJing Sect leader, and whining from the QingheNie Sect leader.

He looks over his shoulder and finds Wangji also staring at where the three free-spirited men stand. A familiar look of longing is what Xichen can read behind his brother’s eyes. He has not missed the expression.

“Lan Wangji, want some help?” Gen Lei is already standing, bending over to extend a hand towards Wangji. At the latter’s permission, he places a hand under Wangji’s arm and heaves him up. He isn’t the only one surprised at the man’s strength. He has the same build as the Twin Jades but he doesn’t exude the aura the Twin Jades possess. He chuckles at their reactions. “I used to heave chopped woods for the villages that have elder population.”

“Mn.” Wangji looks up at reaches over to fix Gen Lei’s crooked hair piece. “Proper decorum,” is his explanation at Xichen and Gen Lei’s open shock.

There is laughter across the room, and they find Wei Wuxian hiding behind Huaisang due to an angered Jiang Cheng who is growling profanities at him. It isn’t an unusual scene.

Xichen feels a pang of pain at Wangji’s clouded expression. Wei Wuxian is right there, but he always seems so far away. Lan Xichen has witnessed his brother growing up -- the hardest part of it was when Wangji fell for the Yiling Patriarch – Wangji was so confused with his feelings especially when Wei Wuxian began to use crafty tricks in his cultivation. Xichen was the only one who saw the longing in his brother’s eyes as he watched Wei Wuxian drift away.

It’s been decades, and Lan Xichen still hates the helplessness he feels when Wangji, his baby brother, looks so lost because of a man who is in denial and hasn’t grasped his feelings yet.

“—you live in jingshi with him—what even-- why are you like this?” Jiang Cheng hisses, looking upwards in defeat.

“So? Did you think Grand Master Lan would let me live anywhere else in Cloud Recesses freely? He knows I’ll cause trouble if I wasn’t guarded by Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian defends, bottom lip puckered out, frowning. “Right, Lan Zhan?” He has the audacity to ask at their direction.

Wangji’s jaw clenches, looking away. Lan Xichen closes his eyes and sighs.

When he opens them, he sees Gen Lei move to block Wei Wuxian from Lan Wangji’s sight. He has a determined expression. He catches Xichen eyes for a second, and the Older Jade of Lan realizes that the man is angry for Wangji. “Lan Wangji, come to Meilin with me?”

All conversations in the Lanshi halt.

“…What?”

“Meilin is beautiful this time of year, spring brings a lot of blooming flowers all over the place. The sceneries are breath taking, and the people are pleasant. Empress Valley is incomparable to Cloud Recesses but it has its strengths. I can reserve you the room surrounded by the fields of magnolia and orchids if you would like that.”

“I want to bring someone to Cloud Recesses. Bring him there and hide him there.”

Gen Lei smiles. “You’ve said so yourself that there isn’t much to tend to the month after this. Visit Meilin with me when I return there next time. You can stay for a day or a week. I want to show you where I grew up.” When Wangji starts to speak, he places an index finger over Wangji’s lips. “Think it over. I can wait for your answer.”

The Younger Jade of Lan inclines his head. “Mn.”

Xichen’s eyes travel from the pair to where Wei Wuxian is standing, a conflicted expression present on his face. He wants to scream for them to realize what even the blind and deaf could see and hear, but interfering might cause unripe realizations remain unripe. He doesn’t know if dying once made the Yiling Patriarch this naïve with his own feelings, but Xichen might just kill him again if that would place some sense back in him.

Jiang Cheng meets his eyes and somehow, the man manages to portray his exhaustion at Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji with a loud exhale. Nie Huaisang hides half of his face behind his fan and rolls his eyes.

When they step out the Lanshi, Wei Wuxian approaches them with his trademark wide smile. His hand automatically finds Wangji’s wrist. “Lan Zhan, I’m sleeping in Jiang Cheng and Huaisang’s room tonight. Is that alright?”

“Mn.”

“See you tomorrow!” He bids, bouncing towards where his brother, and friend stand.

Wangji rubs a palm over where Wei Wuxian held his wrist, scrubbing an invisible mark. A touch that burns. Gen Lei catches the movement, but decides not to comment. He, instead, takes a deep breath of the crispy, cold air. “I have to check on my cousin, whether he is doing anything I should report to his uncle. I’ll seek you later.” He expects the nod, so with a last wave, he departs towards the dormitory.

Xichen takes the opportunity and gestures towards the Hanshi, “Can we talk, Wangji?”

His brother doesn’t reply, following after him as he begins their trek towards his residence. Closing the doors behind him, he rounds to face Wangji. “Be honest with me, what is happening?”

When the Younger Jade of Lan continues to stare on the floor with a blank expression, he ponders on, “Wangji, I have been with you since you were born, I’ve watched you grow up into the person you are right now. I know we’ve had that short talk in Uncle’s residence when you first accepted Young Master Gen’s courtship. Honestly, I thought you’ve agreed with it to make Young Master Wei open his eyes. But I feel like that hasn’t been the case.”

He steps closer towards his brother, begging for any sort of response. “Last time, you told us that you’re not forcing yourself, and that you wanted to give this a try. I guided you all my life, and I know you will never ever use someone for selfish reasons. So what exactly is happening? What do you intend to do with Young Master Gen’s genuine affections?” He pauses and breathes, “What of your own affection towards Young Master Wei?”

He knows he’s gotten through when Wangji’s hand tightens around Bichen. Wangji’s jaw clenches, his brows furrowing slightly. “It hasn’t changed,” He whispers.

“But?” Xichen prompts.

“But I am willing to be satisfied with where we stand with each other,” Wangji adds. Xichen’s heart clenches with how painful it seems for his brother to let out these words. “My affections are deep, brother. However, I have accepted that perhaps Wei Ying has an inkling of everything that’s going on, but doesn’t want to acknowledge it. My feelings hasn’t and will not change, but I swear that I have not accepted Gen Lei’s courtship out of desperation, and to play with his adoration.”

He lets his hand fall on his brother’s shoulder, squeezing it as a sign of comfort.

Wangji swallows down his contemplation -- tampering the need to speak in monosyllables, the need to disregard his emotions. “Wei Ying is important to me. To have him back by my side is enough. Gen Lei’s intentions are pure, and I appreciate his efforts. In your eyes, I understand that you saw my acceptance of his courtship as something out of pettiness, but seeing Gen Lei looking at me the way I look at Wei Ying made me want to give him a chance. I know what it is like to stare longingly from afar.”

Indeed, he does. “Wangji.”

His brother’s free hand falls to his side. “I want to move on,” He whispers, voice cracking. “But I can’t.”

Moving on instinct, he wraps an arm around his brother, bringing him close. “Wangji.”

“I am happy. I am. I can be happier, yet who am I to impose my feelings to Wei Ying when he clearly is satisfied with the way things are between us? Who am I to open his eyes and ears when he is the one forcing them closed himself? I am happy to have him by my side, and if being friends is all we could be, then I could do nothing but accept it.”

“Wangji, you waited for him for sixteen years. Is this how you want things to be after you’ve tried saving him from himself, after you accepted discipline whips for him, after you played Inquiry in a mountain of corpses to ask if he was in peace, and after you’ve fought against the cultivation world once he has returned?”

“I am happy, brother,” Wangji repeats, “but I am tired.”

Xichen couldn’t keep his tears in anymore.

“I never regretted loving him. I will never regret it. And perhaps I will forever carry the heart I wanted to give him inside my sleeve, tucked safely. He deserves freedom, brother, and I don’t want my feelings to leash him. Knowing he’s safe is enough for me.”

“Wangji, oh Wangji,” He sobs.

“Gen Lei…” The Younger Jade of Lan murmurs, “Gen Lei gives me a sense of calmness. His interest on me is not overbearing -- knowing and letting me have my boundaries. When I saw his first courtship gift, I realized the gravity of his feelings – of the effort he is giving to actually make me feel special. He still sees me as Hanguang-Jun, but tries his best to unravel and find Lan Wangji. He’s a genuine person who wears his heart on his sleeve, but would burn the world if his people were harmed.”

“I want to…” Wangji pauses, gathering his thoughts. “I want to give Gen Lei a chance, not out of pity. But to let my heart experience a different type of love – to find someone who would give their heart, would let me cradle it and care of it as my own. I think it’s also time I give my own heart the opportunity to heal with love carefully moulded to take care of it. Gen Lei seems to be just the right one.”

Xichen couldn’t help asking, “What of Young Master Wei?”

“We’ll remain the same,” His brother responds after a beat of hesitation. “Seeing him happy makes me happy.” Wangji lifts his gaze, and Xichen finds his throat dry up at the tear that drips down that pale face. His lips shake when he asks, “Brother, was I wrong to love him too much?”

“No, no, no,” He insists, cradling Wangji’s face in his hands – the same way he did so when they were younger. “The only wrong one in here is the universe who is cruel to our clan, somehow cursing us with love at first sight, but no happy endings.”

“Wei Ying will always be the love of my life -- he has taught me how to love, he has made me want to break rules and live my life without regrets, he has given me memories I wouldn’t have dared try having if I hadn’t met him. However, he’s a free soul. Him returning might be my happy ending with him,” Wangji murmurs. “Gen Lei seems to be a person who would accept my cold heart, nuzzle it close to his to warm it up, and take care of it tenderly. That’s why I’ve chosen to accept his courtship.”

“Just five more months?” Xichen murmurs, begging. He witnessed his brother’s suffering with being in love with Wei Wuxian. He was even the person who pushed his brother to befriend the Yiling Patriarch. There are times he is frustrated towards Wei Wuxian, but he also knows best that Wangji would only be happiest with the Yiling Patriarch. “Can you wait until the six months of courtship is over? So that you’ll be able to weigh everything equally? I just want you to make the best decision for you. After that, I won’t pester you about this any longer.”

Wangji takes a deep breath. “Alright.”

Xichen exhales, letting out a sad smile take over his face. “You’ve grown so much, Wangji.” He wipes his brother’s unshed tears. “Your eyes always look so sad. I hope someday I’ll see you wholeheartedly happy again.”

“You also deserve to be wholeheartedly happy again, brother.”

He sighs. “Someday, perhaps.” Stepping back, he releases his hold around Wangji and looks out of the window. “What time is it – Why hasn’t anyone called us for dinn—“ He reaches for the door and slides it open.

Their hearts seem to stop.

Gen Lei is standing outside, hand poised for a long abandoned knock.

Chapter Text

Gen Lei, his suitor, is standing right outside of Hanshi, hand poised for a long abandoned knock. His eyes are wide, lips parted and hands clenched tightly with one on the air and the other on his side. His copper eyes shine mahogany because of the candle’s flickering fire from inside the home.

“Young Master Gen—“ Xichen begins, glancing from him to their visitor with a tinge of dread in his tone. Lan Wangji couldn’t find his voice, the weight of the conversation their guest possibly heard sinking in.

Gen Lei lets his hand fall, his eyes can’t seem to stay in contact with either Twin Jades of Lan. “I was about to call you for dinner. Lan Wangji isn’t in the jingshi, so I asked one of the servants and they said they saw you both walking to the hanshi. I heard my name… I didn’t mean…to eavesdrop,” His voice lowering in volume after each word. He sucks in a breath and bows. “I apologize!” He says before turning to walk away.

Lan Wangji forces himself out of his stupor, taking a long step to grab Gen Lei’s arm. “Wait.”

Xichen catches his eyes, and understands the meaning behind them without a single uttered word. His brother nods and steps out. “I shall fetch our dinner. You may remain in the hanshi for the time being.”

As the Older Jade of Lan disappears from their sight, Gen Lei uses the hand Lan Wangji has around him to push them both back inside the home. With his foot, the MeilinGen Sect leader shuts the door. Standing straight and poised like this, Lan Wangji realizes that the other is an inch taller than him. Gen Lei rounds to face him, face hard and lips pursed. “Lan Wangji.”

He’s calling off the courtship, isn’t he?

Why can’t he seem to keep the good things that come into his life?

“Earth to Lan Wangji,” Gen Lei insists, shaking him with his arm. When he blinks back, the other sighs in muted annoyance. “What were you just thinking?”

“Nothing.”

“Lying is forbidden in Cloud Recesses,” Gen Lei retorts.

Lan Wangji admits defeat. “That you’re calling off the courtship.”

The hand now wrapped around his wrist tightens, enough to be noticeable but inadequate to hurt him. “Lan Wangji, what am I supposed to do with you?” Gen Lei murmurs in frustration. “I’m not calling off the courtship.”

He blinks. “You’re not?”

Gen Lei shakes his head. He steps forward until their faces are inches apart. The proximity makes him uncomfortable, but he endures through it. “Here’s the thing, I heard everything, from start to finish. Tell me, is everything you’ve said the truth?”

“Lying is forbidden in Cloud Recesses,” He reiterates --Gen Lei gives him an unimpressed look--before adding a low, “and it doesn’t work on brother.”

Hands grasp his arms, firm and confident. He looks up, and stares at a pair of fond copper-colored eyes. “Lan Wangji, I am not Wei Wuxian.” His heart thuds traitorously in his chest. Gen Lei shakes his head. “I am not Wei Wuxian,” He insists. “He’s the Yiling Patriarch-- a free spirit, a rogue cultivator, a man who has shown you wonders of life, and the man who you fought alongside with for two wars despite the consequences it would entail. I don’t know what has caused this impossible communication rift between you two, but you have made your decision. I am Gen Lei of MeilinGen Sect – a Sect Leader who doesn’t know how to fly a kite, a man who enjoys the rain, and the man who swears to take care of your heart, nuzzle it close to his own to keep it warm, and care for it tenderly whenever you decide Gen Lei deserve it.”

Lan Wangji sucks in a breath when Gen Lei, holding onto his hands, goes to his knees. “I promise not to abandon you, not to make you overthink my actions and words, and not to cause you sorrow. We could start of as friends, and that’s alright. If I ever would be the right person, I promise that you will not need to set Wei Wuxian out of your heart, he probably permanently resides there. He could stay there as long as you want him to, while Gen Lei take care of you as a whole.”

“Rise, please,” He begs, overwhelmed. Gen Lei complies gladly. “I-- You’re…”

“…willing to wait until the remaining five months is up, for both of us to try and find out.”

“You’re too good of a person,” Lan Wangji complains, unable to keep the incredulity from his tone

That earns him a bemused chuckle. “As long I am not hungry,” He teases. “Besides it’s you. In my opinion, you deserve the world. So, are we good?”

It shouldn’t be that easy and simple. Yet it somehow is. “Mn.”

Lan Wangji steps out the GusuLan Sect Administrative Office after ensuring he has not left any duty undone on his desk. With stacks of correspondences under his arm, he strides towards the hallway leading to the common area where guests and Lan cultivators spend most of their free time on. Along the way, he receives and returns several greetings.

His steps come into an abrupt halt with a familiar laughter. He turns his head, and watches Wei Wuxian cackling while running away from Jiang Cheng. The YunmengJiang Sect leader’s face is red as usual, but it seems to be out of embarrassment. It reminds Lan Wangji of the times he was flustered by Wei Wuxian enough that his ears turn crimson. What caused Jiang Cheng to blush? He blinks, and realizes he doesn’t care. 

The adoptive brothers are surrounded by Nie Huaisang, Gen Lei, and their four most beloved junior disciples – all have knowing looks on their faces. Lan Xichen, though, stands on the far side, seeming to have just arrived and is confused with the chaos his appearance ensued. Wei Wuxian laughs then hides behind the Older Jade of Lan, snickering behind his hand when Jiang Cheng stops his attack because of his chosen human shield. Lan Wangji couldn’t help glaring at his brother at the casual hold Wei Wuxian has on his shoulders. “Young Master Wei, I would not like to be rude, but I can feel ice directed at me.” He turns towards Gen Lei. “Young Master Gen, your prince has arrived.”

Lan Wangji has no idea what his brother is planning with those words. But it did made everyone turn towards his direction. All of a sudden, Wei Wuxian and Gen Lei are sprinting towards him, and he has nowhere to run. The latter arrives first, advantage of being nearer, and smiles widely before bowing. “Lan Wangji.” He returns the greeting. “We haven’t seen you for almost two days. Have Sect Leader Yao and Sect Leader Ouyang blew your ears off with complaints and ranting?”

Wei Wuxian crosses his arms over his chest, and exclaims over Gen Lei’s voice, “Lan Zhan, I missed you!”

Lan Wangji hates how much that affects him, blood rushing to his face and ears.

“Well, not only me. We all missed you!”

He also hates how callused Wei Wuxian is when it comes to the words that spill out of his mouth. Lan Wangji feels hope blooming, which is then quickly trampled with the Yiling Patriarch’s utter disregard over how his words could be interpreted.

To calm himself, he closes his eyes and counts to ten. Because of this, he doesn’t see Jingyi mouthing, “Heavens, Senior Wei is the slowest person I know,” to his co-juniors. Sizhui could only offer a sympathetic smile, Jin Ling rolls his eyes so hard the other disciples feared for his pupils, Zizhen looks like he wants to say something, but doesn’t. Nie Huaisang is fanning Jiang Cheng, whose eyebrows are ticking in alarming rate.

Gen Lei’s voice brings him back. “To what point does a person reach his maximum dumbassery?” He asks politely. Lan Wangji stares at him, uncertain how Gen Lei manages to insult Wei Wuxian without being rude.

Lan Wangji has to take a deep breath to stifle his need to let out a laugh.

“Ask Young Master Wei,” His brother suggests, grabbing the back of Jiang Cheng’s collar when the YunmengJiang Sect leader’s temper flares up again with Wei Wuxian’s confused expression. “It looks like he also doesn’t know. Perhaps someday we will find out.”

He is being insulted, so Wei Wuxian should have no business looking endearing while looking from one person to another for an answer. Lan Wangji is suffering, so he turns his attention to Gen Lei, who is patiently waiting for him to compose himself. “Sect Leader Yao and Ouyang could conquer the world with how irritating they can be.”

“Seconded,” Ouyang Zizhen quips.

“No one tell them this,” He quickly adds.

Gen Lei laughs, genuinely entertained. “Beneath the cold mask is a man who can be such a menace.” Lan Wangji learned to dig for his own quirkiness from a certain someone.

“He learned from the best,” Wei Wuxian comments, seeming to read his mind, grinning proudly. How is it that their minds seem to connect until it’s about the important stuff? “By the way, you’re done with your Chief Cultivator duties, right? And there are no lectures scheduled for the rest of the day? Can we visit Caiyi Town? I want to get out of Cloud Recesses even just for a while.” Before he could protest, Wei Wuxian has leaned closer, puckering out his lower lip for a pout. Lan Wangji has to mentally steady himself. “Please, Lan Zhan?”

Lan Qiren’s booming voice startles them out of their skins, “Good lord, Wangji, that brat has been waiting like a lost puppy since yesterday to ask you this. Can you just agree and give me some peace?” He’s standing on the hallway leading to his residence. He looks from Lan Wangji, Gen Lei to Wei Wuxian. He looks tired all of a sudden. “I’m getting too old for this,” He mutters under his breath then departs.

“Uncle has agreed,” Lan Wangji announces. “You may go.”

Wei Wuxian looks away with a scowl, scratching his nose. “I didn’t ask him. I asked you. ‘We’ includes you, Lan Zhan, you fuddy-duddy.” Lan Wangji should be insulted at his tone, but he’s gotten used to it.

Several pairs of eyes stare at him, expectant. He lets out a sigh. “Alright.”

As he watches Wei Wuxian jump in triumph and head towards the gates of Cloud Recesses, Gen Lei goes by his side, a patient smile on his face. “You can’t say ‘no’ to him, can you?”

“Sometimes I wish I could.”

“We still have five months, Lan Wangji,” MeilinGen Sect’s leader states, hopeful. Lan Wangji doesn’t deserve such devotion. “I want to hold your hand, but I know I’m not allowed to.” Gen Lei reaches for Lan Wangji’s right’s hand’s hanging sleeve, hesitating. “How about this?”

“…willing to wait until the remaining five months is up, for both of us to try and find out.”

Forcing himself not to look at Wei Wuxian’s retreating figure beside Lan Sizhui, he inclines his head. “Just until before we get to town.”

“Thank you,” Gen Lei whispers, relieved, clutching the sleeve like a lifeline.

Wei Wuxian wants to rip someone’s robes off.

He shakes his head. That came out wrong.

Wei Wuxian wants to sneak his hand under someone’s sleeves, tangle his hand with that someone’s hand, then take that someone’s robes off.

Almost a month into Gen Lei’s courtship towards the esteemed Second Jade of GusuLan Sect, Wei Wuxian has officially turned insane.

Almost four days of not having Lan Wangji in the same room by bedtime has made Wei Wuxian lose sleep. For some reason he couldn’t deduce, he couldn’t fall asleep unless he was in the same room as Lan Wangji by nine in the evening. Adding fuel to his madness is the blatant display of almost hand holding in front of him. Going down Cloud Recesses, Wei Wuxian almost tripped when he witnessed Gen Lei clasp a hand around the end of Lan Wangji’s sleeve. At first, the Yiling Patriarch thought it was to gain balance or attention. Looking into it closely, it seems to be the closest thing to holding hands Hanguang-Jun has allowed.

And it’s not with Wei Wuxian! He knows since they defeated Jin Guangyao that he wants to hold Lan Wangji’s hold for no apparent reason. They are close friends, he should be allowed that. They held wrists yet they usually happen in emergency situations.

Maybe I should pretend to trip and fall?

But then Lan Wangji would catch him with his arm, and Wei Wuxian will have this strange desire to turn it into a hug. He almost forgot that he has started to want to hug the Second Jade of Lan. The smell of sandalwood from the incense burner in the jingshi smells differently when it clings on Lan Wangji. He misses that, and it’s normal friend stuff.

“No, it’s not,” A voice startles him enough to scream. He turns and finds Wen Ning beside him.

“Wen Ning! A little warning next time would be nice!” He chides, calming his heart. The others resume their walk after finding out the source and reason for the noise. Lan Wangji’s cold eyes linger longer than usual at Wen Ning that it made the poor man squeamish. When Wei Wuxian raises his brows at the strange behaviour, but Lan Wangji huffs and turns away, ignoring him.

Well, there’s the Lan Zhan I know.

Wen Ning pouts. How could a fierce corpse look adorable? No wonder he’s related to Sizhui. “Sorry, Young Master. I’ve actually been here since earlier, A-Yuan has told me everything. I was about to approach you but you were mumbling things to yourself.” He blinks and says, matter-of-fact, “Young Master, it is not normal to miss someone’s smell, especially when it’s a specific someone.”

“Indeed, indeed,” Huaisang comments, suddenly appearing on his other side.

He frowns, and lets their unexpected interruptions go. “Huh. Is it normal to want to pull someone’s hand away from someone else’s?”

“It is not.” Another voice barely whispers behind him. When he turns, he finds Jiang Cheng with a scowl.

“Oh.”

“Are you finally catching up, Young Master?” Wen Ning asks, tilting his head.

“To what?”

The people surrounding him all groan and abruptly leave him – absolutely clueless.

Jiang Cheng gets bored with the silence, and ends up walking beside Wei Wuxian. They suffer together as Gen Lei asks everything he could think of about Caiyi Town – hand never letting Lan Wangji’s sleeve go. To be fair, if Wei Wuxian was in his position, he might not let go also.

Four sleepless nights equal to strange thoughts about your friends. Wei Wuxian, take note.

“Oy, Wei Wuxian, what’s the deal with that guy?” His adoptive brother hisses, lowering his volume. “He’s almost at the same level as Sect Leader Lan, and that should be impossible. No one must be that nice. Do you think,” he lowers his volume further, “he might be another Jin Guangyao?”

They both jump when upon Lan Xichen’s sharp intake of breath, Lan Wangji stops and turns to throw them a cold, freezing glare. Wei Wuxian hasn’t received that look for years and he forgot how terrifying it is. He also forgot that they are all cultivators, and have naturally heightened senses. That’s why they, he and Jiang Cheng, are great at gossiping.

Gen Lei’s fingers toy with Lan Wangji’s sleeve, not turning around to address them. He manages to coax Lan Wangji to continue walking forward. “I am Gen Lei,” He begins, wind carrying his voice, “My birth name is Gen Liang. I am the second son of the former MeilinGen Sect Leader. My older brother grew up to be the heir – my parents paid attention on him because of that. I grew up with the cultivators and the villagers – considered as the spare. My mother died because of the grief brought by my father’s abuse of her and the power he held over her and Meilin. In the war against Wen Ruohan, my brother died, leaving the throne to me.

I am not Jin Guangyao. But my father could have been the next Jin Guangshan. The people basically raised me, and I owed them so much. So while letting my father rule for years, I dug for dirt, because Meilin deserves better. Before Mo Xuanyu vanished, we corresponded on things he found out about my father. It wasn’t difficult to overthrow someone out of the throne and have him exiled when most of his people has suffered through his misdeeds, and want him gone. Now, I don’t have parents, but I do have the villagers and my men. Meilin still has a long way to go, but we’ll get there.”

Gen Lei looks over his shoulder to address them, “Trust me,” He smiles. “I am nobody but Gen Lei.”

Wei Wuxian has no doubt about that.

But let Lan Zhan’s sleeve go!

They book a boat that will fit them all. They could have rented a number of smaller ones to row themselves, but Wei Wuxian proposes for them to be the passengers this time and travel out of leisure unlike their previous visits. They leave the door open to let the fresh, salty wind in. Sizhui has his forehead pressed against Wen Ning’s back, sea sick to his stomach. Jin Ling almost mocks his seasickness until Jingyi steps onto his foot to shut his mouth. It becomes Zizhen’s duty to keep the two troublemakers apart.

Gen Lei is also not faring well, paling at each rock of the boat they are in. When a significant wave rattles the boat, he has to clench his hands on his lap to hold it in. Lan Xichen takes pity and asks their boatman to ease the travel. Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng are lounging comfortably, eyes closed. Lan Wangji is sitting straight, head turned to watch Cloud Recesses turn smaller from a distance.

After a while of boredom, Wei Wuxian flings himself to Jiang Cheng. “Jiang Cheng, I’m bored.”

“Drown then.”

This brat’s mouth hasn’t changed. “I’m bored,” He whines, bumping his head against his adoptive brother’s shoulder.

“Heavens, his stare has turned even colder through the years,” Jiang Cheng murmurs, rubbing his arm. “Oy, Lan Wangji, I’m a victim here! Don’t you look at me like that.”

Wei Wuxian looks at Lan Wangji’s direction and sees the man’s unmistakeable glare. What did Jiang Cheng do?

“I’m not afraid of you!” The YungmengJiang Sect declares. “It’s not my fault. You have Gen Lei. Piss off.”

Lan Wangji’s jaw clenches, and he grabs Bichen beside him, readying for a fight. Why is he so pissed off?

Standing up, he stands to block them from each other’s view. “What’s going on? Drop your swords.” When neither does, he repeats firmly, “Drop them.” Jiang Cheng complies with a grimace, Lan Wangji drops it with a sigh. Just as he was about to return bothering his adoptive brother, a hand grips his wrist, and he finds himself being yanked to be seated on Lan Wangji’s right. Gen Lei looks like he would have murdered Wei Wuxian already if he wasn’t on the verge of throwing up.

“Stay,” The Second Jade of Lan commands.

His eyes involuntarily drops to Lan Wangji’s rosy lips. They’re so pretty.

Wei Wuxian shakes his head, then nods it. “Okay.” I need sleep. Soon.

His boredom hits him again half an hour later, and he sighs loudly. No one pays him any attention, used with his antics, and that makes him sigh even louder.

“Wei Ying. Shut up.”

He sticks his tongue out at Lan Wangji. “Shut me up yourself.”

The Second Jade of Lan blinks at him, ears tinting. It takes him a second to realize how wrong that sounded, his own cheeks flushing. A hand knocks him from behind his head, he looks at the culprit and Gen Lei doesn’t seem apologetic when Wei Wuxian throws him a dark look.

“Heavens and earth are wishing you would reach maximum dumbassery soon,” Jin Ling comments from across them.

Just as he was about to say, “I will throw you out of this boat, Jin Ling,” his eyes fall down and recalls Chenqing’s existence. “Ah, perfect!”

He spends the next minutes playing tunes he’s heard when he was exploring the world, and melodies that he used to play when he has nothing to do, one of them he named The Untamed. When he finishes that piece, he taps the end of his dizi against his chin. “Hm, what should I play next?” He sing-songs, eyes flitting towards his seatmate.

With a cheeky grin, he leans his lips against the blowhole, fingers poised against the keys. A breath later, he starts the song that showed him the path home after months of loneliness roaming the world all alone. A song first hummed to him inside Xuanwu Cave. A song that connects him with a very special person, even after death. When he opens his eyes he hasn’t realized he has shut, he sees Lan Wangji’s gaze focused on him. There always seems to be wonder in those eyes whenever Wei Wuxian plays this melody – as if he never deemed it possible that the song could hold so much meaning in their lifetime. Lan Wangji composed it himself but he always looked mesmerized when it was Wei Wuxian playing the tune.

Don’t look at me like that.

But, please, don’t look away.

Wei Wuxian closes his eyes again, but his eyes widen open when the sound of strings accompanies his flute’s melody. Lan Wangji has taken out his guqin, plucking its strings with expert fingers. Mixing together, their instrument blend the melody into a duet. One producing deep echoes that resemble the waves that the water beneath them brings, another higher like the wind that causes the waves rattling their boat from side to side.

Lan wangji raises his eyes from his instrument to meet Wei Wuxian’s, and there’s a small smile on his face as his fingers dance across the strings, each note memorized. Wei Wuxian can’t fault him, he could play the melody asleep.

Someday, he would ask Lan Wangji where the melody has come from, what inspired him to compose it, when did it come to life, why it sounds like a melody filled with longing and questions, and who he has written it for. For now, Wei Wuxian is happy of it being their song.

 When he lifts his fingers from the keys, and when Lan Wangji places his hands on the two side of the guqin to stop the vibrations, silence settles among them. Wei Wuxian’s heart is erratically beating within his chest, his eyes unable to leave Wangji’s face – a beauty that transcends the mortal world.

A clatter makes them tear their gaze away from each other. It’s Jingyi’s sword dropping onto the floor in his hurry to stand up. He picks it up, pats his cheeks hard, and points at the door. “I—uh—fresh air!” He stutters, running outside.

“Me too!” Zizhen and Sizhui quip, both males flushed when they stumble out.

Jin Ling’s cheeks are also tinted rose, but he has an expression torn between disgust and awe. He huffs, then shakes his head, “Grown-ups,” He just sighs before following after his friends.

Jiang Cheng is staring at him with a conflicted expression. “I always assumed Chenqing would only be played to manipulate the dead. It never occurred to me it could play you a piece that brings you so much peace.”

“It isn’t about the instrument,” Gen Lei whispers, staring at Wei Wuxian with combination of envy and longing. “It’s the piece itself.” He shakes his head, defeated. “You win that one, Wei Wuxian.”

Win what? His mind hisses once Lan Wangji’s guqin disappears, the man’s attention back to Gen Lei.

He has no reason to envy Wei Wuxian.

He might possibly win over Lan Wangji.

And isn’t that the greatest award amongst everything?

Their stay in Caiyi Town mostly comprised of eating street snacks, sharing the memories they had of passing by this town before their lecture in Cloud Recesses begun, and being stared at by the crowd. True to their words, they roam around the town, visiting Biling Lake for a little while, and then purchase supplies before returning home.

On the boat home, Wei Wuxian finds Lan Wangi and Gen Lei playing with the silver butterflies, possibly to distract the latter from the rocking of their transportation. With the box open on the Second Jade of Lan’s lap, the silver butterflies fly freely around the boat, leaving stardust in the trail. It has been recent addition in the jingshi. Lan Wangji has spared one shelf of the bookshelves beside their closet for Gen Lei’s gifts. In the middle is the hair piece, now accompanied by the box of silver butterflies. Wei Wuxian never enjoyed seeing them.

Wei Wuxian leans his shoulder against the doorframe, watching them silently.

What would it be like to court Lan Wangji himself?

What courting gifts would he have given him? He’s certain they would be handmade and unique – his little inventions made by his crafty hands.

Wei Wuxian frowns, then slaps both of his cheeks hard. Get a grip, Wei Wuxian. You’re just lacking sleep, not lacking common sense.

Picking out a piece from the basket on the side, he says, “Lan Zhan!” The man immediately turns. “Have some loquat!” He bends and offers the fruit at Lan Wangji, his hand right in front of the Second Jade of Lan’s mouth.

Grinning, he waits for Lan Wangji to either outright reject it or pluck it from his fingers. His breath stutters when Hanguang-Jun merely blinks and leans to take a bite out of it while Wei Wuxian holds the fruit, the juice streaming down his fingers. Lan Wangji obliviously licks his lips, moistening them. “It’s sweet.”

Yeah, your lips seem to be.

Lan Wangji returns to stroking the silver butterfly resting on his folded knee, as if he hadn’t caused Wei Wuxian to malfunction and question everything that he is.

“Looks like we had found out how to shut Senior Wei up,” Ouyang Zizhen remarks.

“If that was the way to do it, I’d rather hear him chatter for years,” Jin Ling hisses. Jiang Cheng agrees with a groan.

Gen Lei looks from the fruit to Lan Wangji. He sighs, then snatches the bitten loquat from Wei Wuxian’s fingers. “Hey!” He protests, reaching for it. “That’s mine!” It is technically Lan Wangji’s, but he’s not giving it up that easily.

The MeilinGen Sect leader finishes the remaining portion of the fruit with grandeur of a Young Master, ignoring his objection. “It is sweet.”

“Mn,” Lan Wangji assents.

“Don’t ‘Mn’, Lan Zhan! He stole my fruit!” Wei Wuxian grumbles, puffing up a cheek.

Gen Lei’s eyes hold a challenge, his expression feral and dangerous. He has managed to manifest Nie Mingjue’s energy in a snap the moment their gazes meet. “Do not flirt with people if you don’t mean it.”

Lan Wangji gives his Gen Lei a dark look for his tone of voice and chosen words, but Wei Wuxian has lost his voice. He admits defeat by stomping to a free space on the boat to sleep until they arrive in Cloud Recesses. Lan Wangji is in the same room, and will be in the same room – jingshi—he could finally get adequate sleep to power through his thoughts.

Decades after they studied in Cloud Recesses, the lecture in GusuLan Sect has finally been modified. Therefore, a day before Gen Lei departs to return to Meilin again, Lan Wangji fulfils his promise.

They are on the fighting field of the Cloud Recesses, specifically created and maintained for the cultivators’ sword training. On today’s agenda, the students will first watch several of the adult cultivators spar before sparring against one another in pairs.

Gathered around the training field, the younger cultivators’ gape when Lan Wangji, The Twin Jade of Lan, the esteemed Hanguang-Jun of the cultivation world -- who has fought in the wars and have gone out alive, who has one of the highest cultivation level in their generation, who has one of the strongest golden cores in the world—steps in the middle of the field, white robes and tails of his forehead ribbon billowing with the wind.

His competitor steps up, an uprising Sect Leader establishing Meilin as a stronger clan – who has also joined the wars and returned alive, who has thrown over his corrupt father out of the throne for his people, who has been renowned for his physical strength—Gen Lei stops three feet away from Lan Wangji, the ends of his deep orange robes contrasting with his opponent’s.

Both take their positions and bow towards each other.

“Do not hold back on me, Lan Wangji,” Gen Lei warns when they straighten up. His expression is of nothing but excitement and eagerness.

Lan Xichen claps his hands once. “Wangji, Young Master Gen. You may begin at the count of three.” He counts down, “One. Two – Fight!”

In a flash, the training field is filled with the sound of metal clashing. Bichen unsheathed is a thin sword almost invisible, and almost made of ice and frost – thin but deadly, weightless in the hands of its owner but incredibly heavy in the hands of others. Its handle intricate, done with the finest techniques. It is a sword to behold – combined with its talented and expert wielder, it shines amongst others, renowned in the whole cultivation world. It has killed thousands but seems to be made just yesterday. However, Wei Wuxian couldn’t contain his surprise at how Gen Lei could hold off its attacks on his own. His sword, Shexian, lives up to its name. With obsidian around its handle, the blade itself is a heavy piece of metal that creates mirages when Gen Lei lands a particularly heavy blow, Bichen shaking.

Lan Wangji supports himself with decades of experience on the field, dodging and counterattacking with elegance and grace, light on his feet. His agility is astounding, his moves precise and deliberate, his instincts sharp enough to predict attacks. Gen Lei fights like he is holding onto an axe and Bichen is a tree that needs chopping. He moves with purpose, each blow given full force. His physical strength is amazing, barely thrown off when Lan Wangji shoves him when Bichen and Shexian clashed. He takes a step forward, uses the energy Lan Wangji has placed onto his attack, and takes another step forward – Lan Wangji’s feet scraping across the ground as he’s forcefully glided backward. When Hanguang-Jun is focused on defending his stance, Gen Lei pulls away by forcefully retracting Shexian, sending the Second Jade of Lan a few feet away.

However, the latter doesn’t slow down -- before he even hits the ground, he’s already sprinting back for a counterattack. When Gen Lei raises his sword to fend him off, Lan Wangji crouches, enters Gen Lei’s personal space, and aims a kick on Gen Lei’s stomach. Taken by surprise, the MeilinGen Sect leader could only stay on his feet by planting his sword onto the ground. Lan Wangji spins forward, twists Bichen around, and points the tip of his sword a breath away from Gen Lei’s throat.

“I yield,” Gen Lei breathes, staggering to his knees.

Lan Wangji nods, sheathes Bichen, and helps Gen Lei to his feet. Not a hair is out of place, and his hair piece hasn’t move. Without mercy, he begins listing off his criticisms, “Footwork needs improvement. Lower part of the body is your blind spot. Train to be able to hold Shexian lighter with either hands. Your stance needs improvement for balance during defence.” Gen Lei nods along attentively. The younger cultivators around the field have all taken notes, brush against paper heard all the training ground. “However, your physical strength is great. You don’t hold back your attacks. You aim at critical areas. Shexian fits you and Meilin’s swordswardship style.”

Gen Lei is the happiest person to ever receive criticisms. “Thank you.”

“Mn.”

Lan Xichen appreciatively claps his hands, a proud smile on his face, before calling back everyone’s attention, “Alright, we will have two more pair of adults to spar, and then we will begin your training. Any volunteer?”

Wei Wuxian is watching Lan Wangji retreat to the sideline across the training ground when Gen Lei’s words bring his attention back to the field. Gen Lei is looking straight at him, the same intensity and ferocity, as when they were returning from Caiyi Town, in his eyes. “I, Gen Lei of Meilin, request to duel Wei Wuxian, the Yiling Patriarch.”

His eyes want to meet Lan Wangji’s before he agrees, to see his reaction, to see his anticipation. To see. Just to see. But Gen Lei has drawn his sword, using his arms to block his view.

“…Then, I guess, we’ll see who reaches the last category first.”

“Do not flirt with people if you don’t mean it.”

Jaw clenching, he meets the gaze head on. You will not have Lan Zhan that easily.

Wei Wuxian retrieves Suibian beside him, stands up and steps onto the field. “Alright.”

Gen Lei wants a challenge. He will get a challenge.

Chapter Text

Anyone in the cultivation world has heard about the Yiling Patriarch – of his ability to raise the dead and use them as puppets, of his skill to manipulate dark energy, of his controversial crafty tricks, and of the backlash he has gotten for using demonic cultivation. His rise to becoming the grandmaster of demonic cultivation has overshadowed his past achievements to the point people tend to forget that he was once YunmengJiang Sect’s head disciple, that he used to be the third best cultivator in the cultivation world, and that he boasted great skills to tie against the esteemed Second Jade of Lan.

Sizhui’s hands clenches to fists on his sides, watching everything with a thundering heart, anxious. Despite his cheerful and lively exterior and dark past, Wei Wuxian holds himself proudly with Suibian in hand. His smile has gone dangerous, one corner uplift. Eyes half-lidded, he jumps down from where he sits to walk towards the centre of the training ground. Stopping several feet away in front of Young Master Gen Lei, he points his sword towards his challenger. “I accept your challenge.”

Wei Wuxian yanks Chenqing from his sash belt then offhandedly throws it towards Hanguang-Jun’s direction, not bothering to look. The Second Jade of Lan, of course, catches it, tucking it inside his sleeve. Sizhui has been raised by that man most of his life and has learned to read his expressions, across the field, he catches the worry in his father’s eyes behind his expressionless face.

“Give me all you got, Young Master Gen,” The Yiling Patriarch mocks, his tone sardonic. Ever since the man’s return, he has always showed his bright personality. To be privileged enough to see the Yiling Patriarch personally, Sizhui understands his fellow students’ anticipation. 

He casts a glance towards his Uncle – Lan Xichen—and sees his lips pursed in concern. Everyone can feel the tension in the air, thunder crackling as a pair of gray eyes stare right back with a pair of copper ones. Sizhui is uncertain whether his A-die even knows why he has been asked for a duel, but he’s fighting back. From where he stands, he could almost read what has come into Wei Wuxian’s mind, You will not have Lan Zhan that easily.

“—Fight!” Zewu-Jun declares.

The crowd collectively holds its breath when both men unsheathe their swords. Gen Lei and Shexian are a pair that has astounded the audience – a powerful sword wielded by a strong individual. Young Master Gen’s sword style is fierce, each blow exuded with full force, each step of his feet crunching pebbles beneath them. Wei Wuxian and Suibian are a pair that is significantly unique – despite looking frail, Suibian’s metal is sturdy and sharp while its master is quick and tricky. The Yiling Patriarch predicts movements, sidestepping and counterattacking the next moment. His technique is honed by the duels he has actually accepted – each strike swift, each dodge calculated, and each step light enough that he’s almost gliding over the ground.

Gen Lei’s attacks are ferocious – almost angry. Yet, Sizhui could deduce that he isn’t upset with the way the duel is going. His anger is punctuated by the metaphorical blindness of his opponent for something –someone— Gen Lei yearns but Wei Wuxian already possesses unaware.

Wei Wuxian’s strikes are purposeful – defensive. Defensive not of his title, and of the name he’s made for himself. His strikes symbolize feelings his mind and heart haven’t accepted yet, but want to – defending another’s heart given to him years ago, tucked safely behind his denial. Because deep within him, he knows he deserves it as much as Gen Lei does, and he will fight for it if he had to.

 Silence has penetrated the training field, all eyes grounded on the two individuals sparring –fighting—at the centre. Each clash of metals echoes, each breath resonates, each step rumbles through the ground deep into the audience’s bones.

“This is not a duel,” Jiang Cheng whispers, startling everyone. He doesn’t notice their surprise, staring at the sparring cultivators, brows furrowed in contemplation.

“It’s war,” Zewu-Jun murmurs, his gaze heavy. His eyes are not on the field, they are staring across the field where Lan Wangji is clutching Chenqing tightly in his right hand.

Sizhui will never understand how two hearts connected even through death could misalign so terribly when faced with the truth.

The war contained in GusuLan Sect’s training ground ends when Wei Wuxian feigns a forward attack, and the moment Gen Lei poises for a counterstrike, the Yiling Patriarch twists, transfers Suibian from his right hand to his left, holding onto it backhandedly. Shexian lashes through air, making its wielder open and vulnerable. Wei Wuxian steps behind him and aims the edge of his blade against Gen Lei’s throat.

The heavy atmosphere disperse when MeilinGen Sect’s leader admits defeat by stabbing Shexian onto the ground, shutting his eyes. Sizhui watches the men straighten up after several moments, facing each other with hardened expressions.

Gen Lei’s copper eyes hold a definite message, I am not giving him up that easily.

Not backing down, Wei Wuxian’s gray eyes respond with malice, Neither am I.

After a loud exhale, Gen Lei sheathes Shexian and goes for a courteous bow. “Thank you for a wonderful spar, Young Master Wei.”

The Yiling Patriarch musters up his usual grin, bowing back, Suibian asleep in its cover. “Likewise, Young Master Gen.”

As the two separate ways, Sizhui shivers when his A-die stops a step away from the audience’s corner, mischief evident on his eyes. He turns and points at Lan Wangji’s direction. “Lan Zhan, I am still full of adrenaline. Fight me!” He exclaims, sprinting towards Hanguang-Jun. In a flash, Suibian is out.

Given no other choice, Bichen unsheathes – defending its master. Lan Wangji’s hand wraps around his sword’s handle and give it his strength. He jumps onto the training ground, and uses Bichen’s sheathe to shield himself from Wei Wuxian’s blade.

The young cultivators are given free seats on a duel a lot of cultivators around the world has wanted to witness: the Yiling Patriarch against Hanguang-Jun.

Sizhui can see how familiar his fathers are with each other’s swordsmanship style. Bichen and Suibian exhausted with their masters’ game of tag across the training field. Each clang, clatter and clash echo memories of when they were still students and barely got along, of when they fought side by side to search for Yin Iron and survive the Indoctrination in Qishan and Xuanwu Cave, of when their beliefs clashed in the bloodbath in Nightless City, and of when they reunited and couldn’t stand to be apart any longer.

He is on the edge of his seat witnessing two of the greatest cultivators spar. The GusuLan Sect’s white robes flutter with the wind at Hanguang-Jun’s steps and spins, focused at defending and counterattacking. His movements flow with expertise of the field – Bichen twisting around and transferring from one hand to another. He barely moves his head to dodge a strike aimed at his forehead ribbon.

“Pretend I’m holding onto a pair of Emperor’s Smile jars!” Wei Wuxian shouts, doing a backflip when Lan Wangji goes for his torso. The statement makes the Second Jade of Lan’s eyebrow tick, his expressionless face tampered with slight annoyance. At the reaction, Wei Wuxian cackles, Suibian’s sheathe handy at shielding him from an aim at his side.

To say Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are astounding will be an understatement. They have become a tandem that everyone feared, a pair who barely needs words to communicate, a duo who moves with synchronization. Against each other, that hasn’t changed. One steps forward, another steps back. Their eyes hardly look away from each other as their arms move. A spin, a twist, and a sidestep. Even feigning doesn’t work, so they fight with aimed towards the other’s defeat.

“Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian whines when a particular strike slashes an inch off the tail of his hair sash.

Sizhui’s heart swells when he sees the phantom smile on his father’s face, smug as his hand catches the red fabric like a war trophy. “Boring,” He says, flying backwards when his opponent goes for the tail of his own forehead ribbon.

Wei Wuxian blinks then lets out a laugh, crouching at the other’s strike towards his shoulder.

If Wei Wuxian and Gen Lei’s sparring was a war --making the audience hold their breath for the end result: of who would conquer the other--  then, the duel of Sizhui’s fathers almost seems like a,

“This is not a duel,” Jin Ling grumbles beside him, crossing his arms over his chest.

Jingyi snickers, not bothering to hide it. “It’s almost like a dance.”

“Can I just stab them myself to end our suffering?” Sect Leader Jiang hisses, annoyed beyond measure at the display before them.

Sect Leader Nie opens his fan, sighing in fond exasperation, “What did we even expect from them?”

Sect Leader Gen lets his patient smile evaporate, shoulders sagging. “I should have kept them separated. To think I caused this.” He hides his face on his hands. “Ugh. The universe hates me.”

Lan Xichen is watching the spectacle silently, closing his eyes with a sigh when his brother exclaims Wei Wuxian’s name in frustration when the latter stabs the trail of outer robes, ruining it.

They reach the end of a blatant display of flirting through fighting when a particularly hard clash between their two blades causes a menacing echo all around the training ground. When they all open their eyes, they find the tips of Bichen and Suibian aimed a breath away at each other’s wielder, signalling a tie.

It takes few heartbeats before anyone swallows the fact that it was, indeed, a tie. The training ground erupts with a loud applause, exhilarated with a duel that will be talked about for ages.

However, Sizhui should have expected it.

Everyone’s delight turns to embarrassment when after withdrawing their swords, Wei Wuxian staggers, adrenaline leaving his body. Lan Wangji’s reaction is immediate, an arm extending to catch the other’s fall. Because of his robes’ hanging sleeves and the torn part of his robes’ trail, the two end up sprawling onto the ground.

Wei Wuxian’s breath comes in swallow pants as their spar ends with an expected tie, the tip of Bichen aimed against his throat – a mimicry of their previous duels. Cheeks flushed and sweat dribbling down every part of his body, he moves in synchronization with Lan Wangji. They withdraw their swords, and sheathe them.

Building a golden core from scratch is no easy feat. Suddenly, as his adrenaline and the only energy he has accumulated over the years evaporate and deplete exponentially from the fight, he finds himself staggering backwards. Lan Wangji’s head whips, attentive, and extends an arm to catch him. They both forget about the ruined trail of the Second Jade of Lan’s outer robes, tripping them both onto the ground. His head is saved from being cracked open by the other’s quick hand shielding it. To avoid placing all his weight onto Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji has stationed his forearm beside the Yiling Patriarch’s head to support his fall.

When they both open their eyes, they realize their compromising position. Wei Wuxian shrieks and goes to sit, but before he could even lift his head he is hit with a wave of nausea. So he lets his head fall back on Lan Wangji’s hand, giving him an exclusive view of the esteemed Hanguang-Jun’s face with his hair sprawled down his shoulders.

Wei Wuxian tilts his head and accepts the gift he’s given, studying every inch of Lan Wangji his eyes could reach. Due to their similar height, their faces ended up right in front of each other, few inches separating them. With this, he finds out that Lan Wangji is naturally pale, his face not contrasting with the skin of his neck, his cheeks turn rosy with exhaustion when fighting, and that his earlobes are endearing, especially when they turn crimson like that.

Lan Wangji’s eyes remain light gold even when they’re hidden from the sunlight. They are endless rivers of honey, enticing and teasing with their stern stare. His eyes land on Lan Wangji’s lips, noting their perfection – thin cupid bows. He notes the tiniest mole on the right corner of the man’s mouth, barely noticeable, yet once it catches your attention, you couldn’t look away.

“Stop—staring.” Lan Wangji grinds out.

Wei Wuxian looks up, his heart traitorously thumping loudly against his rib cage when he sees the other’s reddening and embarrassed face. He is looking away but he casts Wei Wuxian brief glances once in a while.

Lan Wangji is obviously trying to disentangle them, searching for the ends of his robes to pull them apart, but Wei Wuxian pays him no mind.

His eyes trail down to Lan Wangji’s lips again, swallowing. His whole body is frozen underneath the other, trapped against a warm chest, yet he feels like he is burning with the contact. His view is exclusive, this little world partly hidden by Lan Wangji’s fanned-out hair – a sense of privacy he realizes he doesn’t need.  A hand cradles his head, and he wants it to stay there.

His hand is moving before he could think, landing on Lan Wangji’s jaw, finger grazing the almost-invisible mole on the corner of his lips.

“Wei Ying—what—“

“You have a mole here,” He whispers in awe.

I want to kiss him.

The thought feels like a bucket of cold water, Wei Wuxian tearing himself away from Lan Wangji by crawling backwards like an upside down bug. Blood rushing from his chest upwards, he springs onto his feet, and bows. Voice high-pitched in panic, he squeaks, “Excuse me.”

The crowd watch him sprint towards the gates of Cloud Recesses while screaming, “No!” at the top of his lungs. He is hoping his own loud voice would drown out the thought circling in his head.

“Oy, Wei Wuxian, where are you going?”  He hears Jiang Cheng growl from a distance.

Where, indeed? “Either drowning myself or purchasing dirty books; we will see!” Wei Wuxian shouts back, disappearing from view within few seconds.

Rushing out of the Cloud Recesses, his mind is imploding with arguing voices.

Where the hell did that come from?

From you, dumbass.

I can’t have such intrusive thoughts towards Lan Wangji! I should not have any intrusive thoughts towards any men!

Did Mo Xuanyu sacrifice his homosexuality to me when he summoned me? No, that can’t be! Since when did body and soul include preferences?

That is Lan Wangji you almost thought of kissing, Wei Wuxian. Your friend.

Friend. Friend. Friend.

Your closest friend. The only exception in every rule you’ve set in your life.

Your closest friend. The first person that came into your mind when you were reborn.

Your closest friend. The man who has someone courting him towards marriage.

Wei Wuxian comes to an abrupt stop, his heart clenching at the last point, looking over his shoulder towards the place he has just fled from.

Your closest friend. Because despite being special to you, you are quite certain you are straight, and do not look at men that way.

Your closest friend. Because despite being the only exception, he can and must remain only as your friend.

Wei Wuxian sits on the grass, his heart heavy.

Wei Wuxian returns to Cloud Recesses after several hours, acting like nothing happened. Gen Lei has departed back to Meilin by the time of his return – something he is somewhat grateful for. Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang are just about to board their swords when he spots them. He approaches the departure party consisting of Grand Master Lan, the Twin Jades of Lan, Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi and Jin Ling. He places his arm on Jingyi’s head and waves a hand enthusiastically, “Good bye, purple angry Jiang Cheng!”

Jiang Cheng regards him with a thunderous look. “I should have left earlier.” Huffing, he readies Sandu for departure. Nie Huaisang waves back at him in lieu of goodbye. Before their swords could rise from the ground, his adoptive brother turns. “Wei Wuxian.”

The tone makes a spike of nervousness strum through his blood vessels. “What?”

“There’s a limit to denial you can subdue yourself to,” Jiang Cheng says, gritting his teeth.

That is an unexpected advice. He raises an eyebrow. “What?”

“Your perceived selflessness could be also be selfish. It’s not only about you anymore. You should have learned that by now.”

Satisfied with letting that out, Jiang Cheng lets off another warning against misbehaviour towards Jin Ling and a reminder that he will visit again soon, then departs with Nie Huaisang in tow.

Wei Wuxian wants to look at his companions for clarification about the advice he received, but he’s afraid of the answer. So he keeps his head low, and doesn’t ask.

Lan Wangji sets off for his Chief Cultivation duties, leaving Cloud Recesses for a month. Wei Wuxian is given the choice of staying or going, and after a moment of silence he has chosen the former. Lan Wangji tampers his disappointment, resolute with letting Wei Wuxian live as he chooses, so Lan Wangji doesn’t object.

Wei Wuxian is sensing that things are changing, and Lan Wangji can see how he struggles to ignore them. Lan Wangji is not blind to his companion’s desire for the stability of their companionship. Therefore, he does his hardest to retain what they have, if that was what would make Wei Wuxian happy.

He leaves by day break, taking one last look at Wei Wuxian’s sleeping face before placing a small note on the low table:

Wei Ying,

I have departed.

I will see you in a month’s time.

Take care.

Lan Wangji

He devotes his energy and time to tending to his duties – embodying “being where the chaos is,” as much as possible. He listened to various people of different clans’ complaints and pleas. He met with Sect leaders of major and minor clans to re-establish a common network of communication. He re-instilled the trust of the non-cultivators towards cultivators in smaller towns to ensure harmony. On foot, and on Bichen, he has travelled miles and miles. Being nowhere and everywhere, he receives no letter for a month.

He has not missed the seclusion and loneliness.

Hence, when he returns to Cloud Recesses a month later– despite the cool air, and the quietness of the morning, Lan Wangji finds himself smiling. He enters the gates and goes for the jingshi because he craves to see that pair of gray eyes. His blood runs cold when he realizes that it’s empty even if it was still five in the morning.

His feet bring him to the common area, the Library Pavilion, and then to the Back Mountain. His heart resumes pumping normally at seeing Wei Wuxian sleeping on the ground, surrounded by their sleeping rabbits. He has his head tucked against his folded arm, hair fanned-out in almost a dark halo. His breathing deep and expression peaceful. There’s a small box near his feet, but Lan Wangji doesn’t touch it.

Steps light and quiet, he approaches and crouches beside the sleeping Yiling Patriarch. Several of the bunnies have awoken and are greeting him with enthusiasm. He strokes their fur, then faces forward again, relinquishing to the adoration he feels at watching Wei Wuxian sleep. Only a month has passed and it felt like a lifetime. Swallowing his fear, he reaches and brushes his beloved’s hair away from his cheek, touch soft.

I’m home.

He goes to his knees on the same meadow he once knelt at with tears streaming down his cheeks, begging the Heavens to bring Wei Wuxian back. The Heavens heard him. Kneeling, he bends to see Wei Wuxian’s face more closely. Last time on the training ground hasn’t given him enough minutes to study it.

Once he is satisfied with memorizing each little detail of Wei Wuxian’s sleeping face, Lan Wangji was about to sit up when a hand grabs onto his sleeve. Still asleep, Wei Wuxian sighs out, “Lan Zhan,” smiling, clutching Lan Wangji’s sleeve like a security blanket.

After a moment of deliberation, he succumbs to fate and leans closer. Lan Wangji tramples his nervousness and places a light, chaste kiss on lips he has desired to kiss for Wei Wuxian’s two lifetimes. They are chapped but soft, and Lan Wangji memorizes that too.

After all, that is possibly their first and last kiss.

Wei Wuxian startles awake with the sound of footstep, his lips moist. They felt strange. What did he dream about? He rubs sleep out of his eyes and tilts his head, his heart soaring upon meeting Lan Wangji’s eyes above him. He leaps to his feet, grabbing onto the man’s wrists with the need to feel the pulse of life. A month of dreaming about Lan Wangji can’t compare to having the real thing back. “Lan Zhan,” He sighs with a wide grin, content.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji greets back, equally pleased.

How can Lan Wangji make his name sound so good?

Wei Wuxian plops himself onto the ground, and gently pulls the other into sitting beside him. With a little adjustment to his robes, Lan Wangji finds a comfortable enough position to place bunnies onto his lap. Wei Wuxin lets himself stare – he hasn’t seen this man for a month, left behind. He didn’t anticipate how much he would miss the other so he has to memorize every single thing so that his dreams will be more accurate.

He realizes after a while of silence that Lan Wangji is staring at the box near his feet. He picks it up and scratches his nose. “You were gone a long time. I had nothing to do, so,” He shoves the box towards the other, “here.”

Blinking, the Twin Jade of Lan eases the rabbit in his hand onto the ground and accepts the box with careful hands. It is a simple wooden box with clouds of varying sizes delicately carved and painted with white and blue on the outside. After receiving his nod, Lan Wangji lightly lifts the top, letting the magic come into play.

Wei Wuxian’s smile widens at seeing Lan Wangji’s eyes light up.

Once opened, the inside of the box has a small mechanism that rotates on its own that lets out a melody. Along with it, there is a pair of hologram tiny rabbits – one dark and one white- hopping around the edges of the box, chasing each other. The whole thing operates once the lid is lifted up.

Lan Wangji’s lips part in wonder, and he nears the box to his face, watching the tiny bunnies chase after each other while the soft, familiar melody resonates around them. Seated on the meadow at the Back Mountain, Wei Wuxian watches Lan Wangji marvel at his handicraft that took him several sleepless nights. After hundreds of explosions, he has succeeded with creating the hologram. The music box needed his patience the most, because he wanted each note to be accurate.

The hologram rabbits tumble around the edges, the black one almost falling into the hollow part where the mechanism is placed in. Lan Wangji smiles slightly and helps it out with his spiritual energy. It was an endearing sight – Hanguang-Jun using his spiritual energy to help hologram bunnies to stay on their feet.

Even if Lan Wangji seems to enjoy himself. He couldn’t help asking, “Do you like it?”

The smile he’s rewarded with takes his breath away. “Mn.” Lan Wangji lets the hologram bunnies nuzzle his finger. “It’s wonderful.”

“Good,” He whispers, relieved. “I—I figured that your silver butterflies need some friends. And—and—I want you to hear this song when you go out and travel. It’s nothing much—“

“—You made it. That means a lot.”

His hands find pale cheeks, and before Lan Wangji could protest, Wei Wuxian is already pulling them. Hands occupied, his victim could only squirm with non-coherent babbles. Lan Wangji frowns, gently sets the box aside, and grabs Wei Wuxian’s unrelenting hands. “Wei—Ying—“ He grunts, “Stop—“

Wei Wuxian ignores him, pinching a little more, then finally letting go. Instead of pulling away though, he squishes Lan Wangji’s face between his palms. Lan Wangji sulks, pulling away from his ministrations. Before the Twin Jade of Lan could stand and run away, Wei Wuxian pokes the man’s side. His eyes widen with the tiny, surprised sound that it elicits. “Oh.”

Lan Wangji scrambles to his feet as gracefully as possible, but Wei Wuxian is already moving. A hand holds onto the tails of Hanguang-Jun’s robes, yanking him down. Unbalanced, Lan Wangji topples onto the ground. “Wei Ying—“ He starts to scold, but the Yiling Patriarch isn’t hearing any of it, his fingers have found their targets, wiggling them to elicit laughter. Lan Wangji squeaks, and squirms beneath him, tapping his fists on the ground, stifling his reactions.

On his behalf, Wei Wuxian is laughing, delighted at finding Lan Wangji’s ticklish spot. After a while, he pinches the pale cheeks again. “You’re so cute!” He exclaims, biting his lip to contain his glee as Lan Wangji surrenders into his pinches.

That earns him a dirty look. “I am a man, how dare you call me such a word.”

“Oh, you hate that?” He teases, poking the man’s nose. “I’ll repeat it again and again then. Lan Zhan is cute. Cute,” He repeats, elongating the word.

He yelps when Lan Wangji grabs one his arm and pulls him closer. In a split second, teeth are sinking into his skin. He would marvel more over the fact that Hanguang-Jun, a Twin Jade of GusuLan Sect, bites if he wasn’t in so much pain and shock. Lan Wangji is merciless, keeping a tight hold on both of Wei Wuxian’s hands so that he wouldn’t be able to run away. “Ow! Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!” He screams, watching the other leave teeth marks on his arm near the crook of his elbow. Hissing, he tries to get away. “What the hell—Let me go—ow!” His protests make Lan Wangji bite even harder. Wei Wuxian is surprised there is no blood yet. “Holy shit—Lan Zhan—stop—ow, ow, ow!”

Lan Wangji finally lets him go, radiating smugness as Wei Wuxian yanks his arm away to examine the mark. He has sunk his teeth so deep they leave a bruise for weeks!

Wei Wuxian gapes at the man underneath him, who is staring at his handiwork with pride. It’s not anger. It’s not madness. It’s exhilaration from having a childish Lan Wangji before him that makes Wei Wuxian nip at the man’s nose. They both stop -- surprised with his action.

Lan Wangji’s ears and cheeks turn rosy, and he reaches for Wei Wuxian’s own nose. But he dodges and nips at Hanguang-Jun’s nose again. Wanting revenge, Lan Wangji throws his weight onto Wei Wuxian to gain the upper hand. This causes their imbalance, rolling down the hill with their bodies and limbs tangled together.

They end up few meters below, on a clearing surrounded by wildflowers, hidden beneath the bushy trees. They both stare at each other for few moments before Wei Wuxian, who has ended up on top of Lan Wangji again, laughs loudly, filled with happiness with the incredulity of what just transpired. He laughs until tears stream down his cheeks, his stomach aching. Lan Wangji reaches to thumb away a tear, a small smile on his face – happy and free from the shackles of the world. The music box continues playing their song from above ground, their bunnies watching them with beady red eyes.

Their laughter dies down after seconds, minutes or maybe hours. Time doesn’t exist in here. Rules also don’t exist here. So Wei Wuxian tangles his hands with Lan Wangji’s, hiding his face on the man’s chest. A heart is beating fast, and he isn’t certain whose it is. He doesn’t care whose it is.

He is so confused. He doesn’t want things to change. Yet he also doesn’t want things to remain the way they are.

Time shouldn’t exist here. Yet he only has almost four months before Lan Wangji could be taken away from him.

Shijie, I want to bring someone to Yunmeng. Keep him and hide him there.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji is made of memories.

Lan Wangji has fallen in love at first sight with a boy whose personality is the absolute opposite of his. He didn’t even know the boy’s name when his heart has screamed for him. He didn’t even know the boy’s name when he silenced him in front of Cloud Recesses’ gate because of a forgotten invitation. He didn’t even know the boy’s name when they fought on the roof of Cloud Recesses over a pair of Emperor’s Smile. He didn’t even know who the boy was, but he knew the moment their eyes met that their paths were aligned purposely by the universe.

Lan Wangji was sixteen when a radiant smile has captivated him. Lan Wangji was sixteen when a boy, whose name is Wei Wuxian, let out a laugh that made his pulse thrum erratically within him. Lan Wangji was sixteen when he removed his headband and wrapped either ends around his wrist and Wei Wuxian’s even if it was against the rules. Lan Wangji was sixteen when he went on a mission, accepting that he wouldn’t see Wei Wuxian ever again, and found out that the universe had another plan for him.

Lan Wangji was seventeen when he had watched Cloud Recesses burn to the ground, his father dying, his uncle gravely injured and his brother missing. Lan Wangji was seventeen when he strode towards the front of the Indoctrination Ceremony with his head held high, hiding his broken leg. Lan Wangji was seventeen when he had fought against a mythical beast alongside Wei Wuxian. Lan Wangji was seventeen when he thought he had lost the most important person in his life in Burial Mounds. Lan Wangji was seventeen when he led a battalion to conquer Qishan’s Indoctrination Bureau.

Lan Wangji was almost eighteen when he witnessed Wei Wuxian’s return, who was brandishing demonic cultivation with pride. Lan Wangji was almost eighteen when he drowned with confusion and doubt at seeing the man he cherished succumb into darkness. Lan Wangji was almost eighteen when he stayed under the rain, tears streaming down his face as he watched Wei Wuxian leave with Wen remnants, unable to do anything. Lan Wangji was almost eighteen when he had gone to Yiling and got his heart broken by Wei Wuxian returning up to Burial Mounds holding a child’s hand – lonely yet determined as he walked across a single-planked bridge.

Lan Wangji was eighteen when he realized he was in love with the Yiling Patriarch. Lan Wangji was eighteen when he fought against and alongside Wei Wuxian in Nightless City. Lan Wangji was eighteen when he had watched the man he loved fall to his death from a cliff, his own hand bloody and losing his grip around Wei Wuxian’s wrist.

Lan Wangji was almost nineteen when he received discipline whips on his back for protecting Wei Wuxian and the Demon-Subdue Palace. Lan Wangji was almost nineteen when he adopted a child named Wen Yuan, and gave him a name that symbolized everything he had felt upon Wei Wuxian’s death: Shizui.

Days after he turned twenty-one, he returned to Burial Mounds to look for a corpse, bones, a spirit. Anything. Desperate, he sat surrounded by corpses, guqin on his lap. He let out a prayer, and begun strumming questions. Inquiring for a soul who didn’t deserve his fate. Inquiring for a soul who just wanted to protect his loved ones. Inquiring for a soul who took Lan Wangji’s heart with him.

He didn’t receive a single response, even after his fingers bled and two of his strings break.

Days after he turned twenty-one, he returned to Cloud Recesses and went straight to the Back Mountain. The sight of the rabbits they rescued from the Cold Pond Cave making his heart clench. He ended up on his knees, tears streaming down his cheeks – realization sinking in. Wei Wuxian was gone. With snow falling on his face, he lifted his gaze upwards and prayed, prayed, and prayed for Heavens to return his beloved. Days after he turned twenty-one, he searched for a Wen branding iron and branded himself on the same place Wei Wuxian had been scarred.

Lan Wangji spent the next thirteen years raising Lan Sizhui as his own. Lan Wangji spent the next thirteen years grieving but existing…and waiting. Lan Wangji spent the next thirteen years playing a song he composed for a man that had yet returned. Lan Wangji spent the next thirteen years making resolutions for when Wei Wuxian comes back. His scribbles hidden in a notebook underneath his bed.

I’ll never refuse anything he asks for again. I’ll never question him and his purpose again. I’ll never let anything harm him ever again. I’ll never ignore him again. I’ll never leave him behind again. I’ll never leave his side again.

I’ll do whatever will make him happy. I’ll do whatever will make him safe. I’ll do whatever it takes for that smile never to fade again.

Just give him back, and I will sacrifice my own happiness for his. Because he is my happiness.

Lan Wangji spent the next thirteen years remembering memories, because that’s all he had left.

Eighteen years after he first fell in love, sixteen years after he has lost him, Lan Wangji hears a familiar melody in Mo Village.

It is Wei Wuxian who has been reborn. Yet it is Lan Wangji who has reawakened.

Lan Wangji awakens, hurriedly walking towards the common room where Wei Wuxian’s bed is set against the open window.

It is empty.

Eighteen years after he has felt his heart beat again, he feels it stutter to a stop.

“Lan Zhan?”

He turns, and Wei Wuxian enters the jingshi with a tray of porcelain bowls, a tea pot, a pair of small glasses and two sets of chopsticks. There is a sweet smile on his face, his hair tied in a half-ponytail with his trademark red hair sash. Lan Wangji’s fear evaporates.

The Yiling Patriarch sets the tray onto the low table and approaches him with a frown. His confusion turns into a concern, and Lan Wangji wonders why until Wei Wuxian is cradling his face between his palms in panic. “Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan? Why are you crying?”

Lan Wangji raises a hand and touches his cheek, and realizes that he is crying. He sniffs and tries to stop the stream of tears, yet his body wouldn’t cooperate.

Wei Wuxian pulls them onto the sitting mats. Lan Wangji lets himself be maneuvered, his concentration on the pulse he could feel with the other’s hand wrapped around his own. He’s alive.

His attention is pulled from their intersecting lifelines to Wei Wuxian’s eyes. He feels one of the Wei Wuxian’s thumb caress tears away, murmuring Lan Wangji’s name. “—I’m here.”

“You’re here,” He repeats.

Wei Wuxian deflates with relief, letting out a long exhale. “Aiyoh, Lan Zhan, finally a response. You were scaring me.” Lan Wangji wants to apologize, but can’t, so his eyes drop on the floor. “Why are you crying?”

No lying in Cloud Recesses. “You were gone.”

“I’ve only gone for five minutes to pick up breakfast, dummy. You seemed exhausted so I let you sleep in.”

“You were gone,” He says again.

It takes three heart beats for Wei Wuxian to understand what he meant. The man takes a sharp intake of breath when realization sinks in. “Ah, shit,” Wei Wuxian grunts then picks up Lan Wangji’s hands, squeezing them. “You dreamt of my death, didn’t you? It’s fine. I’m fine. Please stop crying, I’ll also cry. You know I’m a crybaby.”

Eighteen years after Lan Wangji fell at first sight, he’s falling in love again.

His hands cradled in between Wei Wuxian’s, and his name repeated by lips he has stolen a kiss from, he finds himself falling again.

Eighteen years after Lan Wangji first fell in love, he’s mesmerized by the kindness he sees in a pair of gray eyes, he’s captivated by a gentle smile coaxing him to stop his tears, he’s entranced by a voice who could say such shameless things, he’s enchanted by a pair of tender hands stroking away his sadness.

He’s overflowing with words he wants to say, but no way to say them. He’s overflowing with emotions, but he had no outlet. He opens his mouth, but no words would come out. Over thirty years of repression and he sometimes find himself unable to speak anymore. Over thirty years of shutting himself in and there are times he’s stuck in his head. Over thirty years of following thousands of rules – to see his mother, to get a glimpse of his father, to get his Uncle’s approval, to not trouble his brother—and he still struggles to break one of them: Thou shall speak meagrely, for too many words only bring harm, but he desperately wants to spill his thoughts.

Lan Wangji wants more, too much more of what he currently has, and that’s the reason for the next wave of tears. Because he wants, wants and wants. But he’s only asked the Heavens for Wei Wuxian to come back, and he did.

He closes his eyes for an impossible wish.

Please tell me to stay.

Wei Wuxian turns his head and observes Lan Wangji stride to the right of Lan Qiren with the authority of an Emperor. The excess fabrics of his robes dangling in front and behind him, adding to the grace of his entrance. His eyes hold nothing, but blankness. Incredibly unlike to what Wei Wuxian witnessed earlier in the jingshi -- Lan Wangji’s golden eyes seemed to hold a mountain of grief when he met Wei Wuxian’s eyes that the latter had to take a breather to find his composure. Lan Wangji’s eyes were screaming emotions suppressed beneath his silence. The Twin Jade of Lan never needed rescuing, but Wei Wuxian has never such loneliness except from a mirror either.

He felt like Lan Wangji was begging him for something, closing his eyes for a wish. Wei Wuxian never found out what it was since minutes afterwards, they were called to the Yashi for a meeting regarding next month’s lecture curriculum. The Second Jade of Lan ate his breakfast, stood up and proceeded with his morning routine as usual.

Lan Wangji stops in front of his uncle and brother, bowing, “Grand Master. Brother.”

Lan Qiren merely nods and turns towards the Yashi. Lan Xichen has noticed Lan Wangji’s swollen eyes and holds a question with his gaze. The Younger Jade of Lan looks to the ground and responds with silence. Zewu-Jun gets the hint, and lets it go, gesturing for them to follow.

Wei Wuxian watches them retreat, and he decides to tail them. His hands subconsciously reach for the fluttering excess string of fabrics behind Lan Wangji. The action felt familiar, and he couldn’t stifle his chuckle. Lan Wangji gives him a side-glance, a warning and a query. “It reminded me of when we first visited Yueyang. I also grabbed it before.” He pulls the fabric lightly. “We are full of memories, aren’t we?”

Lan Wangji stops and stares at him. His expression clearer than earlier. “We are,” He agrees.

But Wei Wuxian has leaned closer, and blurts, “What’s the name of the song?”

Just like in Yueyang the second time they went there and he tried to catch Lan Wangji off guard by asking how he was recognized in Dafan Mountain, Lan Wangji looks from his right to left eye, deems the question unimportant and ignores him. “Think about it yourself.”

“Ay. Ay! Lan Zhan!” He whines, puckering out his bottom lip. Relentless, he grabs onto the tails of the robe again. He blinks upon the realization that Lan Wangji is wearing something other than white, and he has foregone the robes with hanging sleeves. “Waah. You’re wearing the light blue robes,” He whispers in surprise. Curious, he runs in front of Lan Wangji, blocking his path.

“Wei Ying.”

He grins, and tilts his head. Placing a hand under his chin, he narrows his eyes. Lan Wangji is looking at him as if he had grown a second head. “Don’t look at me like that. I’m just observing you.” He winks. “Can’t say I’m not pleased with what I see.”

Wei Wuxian looks over his shoulder when Zewu-Jun lets out a barely audible gasp caused by tripping over his own feet. That’s when he notices that Sizhui, Jingyi and Jin Ling have also appeared, and have heard what he had just said. Their son’s face is crimson in embarrassment, the sassy brat is looking at him unimpressed, and his nephew’s scorn could rival Jiang Cheng’s.

“Shameless,” Lan Wangji grunts before pushing through him to follow after his uncle and brother.

“See you later, kids!” He bids, and grasps the tails again. When he is warranted a glare, he ignores it. “Yeah, yeah, I’m shameless,” He surrenders and eyes the doors of the Yashi. “Lan Zhan.”

“Mn.”

Gen Lei is returning in few days, and Wei Wuxian is not prepared to let Lan Wangji go yet. He never is. So he licks his lips, toys with the strings of fabrics in his hands, and asks, “Can you accompany me in Caiyi Town after?”

“What for?”

“I…want—“ I want to spend time with you. He bites his lip. “I—“ I need to be with you a little longer.

Lan Wangji knows what it is like not to have the words, so Wei Wuxian is not surprised when the Twin Jade of Lan takes his wrist and nods. “Alright.”

It sounds like a promise.

The meeting isn’t as bad as he has anticipated. Lan Xichen has always been open with others’ opinions, so Wei Wuxian gladly suggested several lessons he would have wanted to experience when he studied in Cloud Recesses. Lan Wangji agreed, witnessing first-hand how having hands-on experiences could help the younger cultivators learn more efficiently. Lan Qiren has abolished some of their recommendations but considered the others. They had gone through a war and a government conspiracy, what else did he need to go through to realize that adapting to the present matters more than old traditions?

After lunch, Wei Wuxian shamelessly drags Lan Wangji out of Cloud Recesses as they had planned.

Their trip going downtown has been silent apart from Wei Wuxian’s ocassional chatter. But he lets his companion be. He has Lan Wangji by his side all afternoon, he feels like he could conquer the world.

No itinerary planned, Wei Wuxian goes from stall to stall, accepting free samples and having small talks with the vendors who have grown accustomed to his presence in Gusu. Lan Wangji follows him around, a silent shadow whose reactions are often an eyebrow raised or an uplifting corner of his lips. Wei Wuxian couldn’t read his neutral expression considering that Lan Wangji is an expert at hiding his emotions. Therefore, he couldn’t do anything else but distract the Second Jade of Lan to see microexpressions.

“What exactly are we doing, Wei Ying?” His companion asks after spending two hours walking around town, curious and patient. Wei Wuxian hums and puts down the miniature pillow back on the display.

“I don’t know,” He admits, scratching his nose. “I just—I want to create more memories before Young Master Gen arrives. Or something along that line.” He sighs, scratching his head with embarrassment. “You’ve been gone for a month for Chief Cultivation duties. Afterwards, you were occupied with teaching in the lecture. Two months passed by, and I felt like we barely…talked. We seemed so far away even if we slept in the same house, you know?”

Surprisingly, Lan Wangji nods. “Mn.”

He grins cheekily and teases, “Aww, Lan Zhan. Did you miss me?”

The Twin Jade of Lan rolls his eyes and snaps, “Shameless.”

Laughing, he trails after his companion towards their next stall. It’s a comb-seller, entertaining a pair of young women picking out combs for each other as a sign of their friendship. They keep on picking one up and then exchanging it with another, riddled with choices. Wei Wuxian leans over the display and studies the combs exhibited. There are various designs in different sizes and colors, each one unique from the others because of their exquisite embellishments. His eyes travel upon each selection, yet feels unsatisfied.

“Ah. Excuse me, mada’m, have you ever accepted personalized order?” He asks, picking a simple maroon comb, twisting it around to appreciate the smoothness of the wood used.

“I do, I do! Any particular thing in mind, young lad?”

Wei Wuxian chuckles and places the comb back. “No,” He answers, feeling Lan Wangji’s eyes on him. “Not yet anyway,” He adds in a whisper. He looks beside him and realizes the pair of young ladies haven’t chosen yet; clearing his throat, he picks up a pair of combs and waves them proudly. “Ladies, no need to fret. Such lovely faces must decide upon exquisite accessories well. Let me tell you, with your complexion and rosy cheeks, this one would suit you best. And for you, I would recommend this one. Its simple beauty would complement you well.” Taking liberties, he places his chosen combs on top of their buns. “Perfect.”

The young women glance at each other, look at the comb-seller for opinion –received wholehearted nods of appreciation-- and back at Wei Wuxian. Pretending to be annoyed at his ministrations, they roll their eyes at him but pay for his chosen combs. Before departing, they thank him, give him their names and leaves with bounce on their steps, giggling all the while.

Tilting his head on a side, he chuckles weakly. “What did they give their names for?” He mumbles, turning to ask Lan Wangji just that very question. He jumps at the icy glare he’s warranted for no reason. “What?” He grunts, pouting.

Lan Wangji continues to stare at him with disdain.

Wei Wuxian blinks with an idea, then huffs out a laugh. “Are either of them your preference?” The words leave a bitter taste in his mouth. He quirks up an eyebrow. “You have a suitor remember?”

The esteemed Hanguang-Jun purses his lips, rolls his eyes and flicks his sleeves out of habit. He turns without a word and leaves.

“Eh? Eh! Lan Zhan!” He calls out, glancing at the comb-seller for help. The woman gives him a knowing look followed by sympathetic smile, and shrugs. Clicking his tongue, he runs after his companion. Lan Wangji is a quick walker, so the moment the fabrics flutter with the wind, Wei Wuxian grabs onto them and yanks. It does its purpose: making the other man stop.

Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder with irritation. “Stop doing that.”

“Stop leaving me behind,” He retorts. “Why are you upset?”

“I’m not.”

“Ah! No lying in Cloud Recesses.”

“I’m not.”

Alright, he’s not upset. What could he possibly be feeling then?

Their staring contest gets interrupted when a man approaches with a small bowl of clear liquid in it. “Lad, have you ever tried Emperor’s Smile? It’s known as the best liquor in the whole world. You must try it!”

Not one to let free samples go, Wei Wuxian accepts the bowl and takes a sip. When he looks in front, Lan Wangji has began to walk away again, back rigid, and obviously upset yet again. He lightly shoves the bowl back to the vendor and manuevers the crowd to catch up to Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan, wait for me,” Wei Wuxian whines.

“Shut up.”

He shuts up. They walk in relative silence afterwards, still stopping at most stalls they pass by. Even while upset, Lan Wangji instinctively takes out his money pouch to purchase things that catch Wei Wuxian’s eyes. He tries protesting after it happens for the fifth time, but Lan Wangji shuts him up again by shoving half of the sweet bun in his mouth. It begrudgingly works.

Their day ends in front of ring toss stall. The game seems easy enough, yet none of the participants have gone home with any of the ordinary-looking prizes. Lan Wangji stands beside him, observing each possible prize. Wei Wuxian notices that his eyes widen fractionally at the prizes on the uppermost shelf on the right. He grins when he realizes that there are separated stuffed toy rabbits up there, one dark and one white, separated with few inches between them. They look a lot like the hologram bunnies Wei Wuxian created for Lan Wangji’s music box.

Taking out few coins out, he slams them on the barrier. “One game, please!”

“Alright, one game coming right up, Sir!”

Lan Wangji is eyeing him suspiciously once he receives the rings.

“I win you the dark one. You win me the white one. Deal?” He whispers, grinning wickedly. “Let’s be honest, this is easy for us.”

The other doesn’t agree nor deny. “What about the third ring?”

“Meh. Let the man have that one. I just want the bunnies.” Upon Lan Wangji’s assent, he starts to step back for momentum. After several steps, he knows he could easily hook one of the rings around the dark bunny stuffed toy. “Man, I need some challenge!” He complains, taking more leisure steps backwards despite the stall owner’s warnings that he wouldn’t reach anything this far away. “Go!” He shouts, tossing the ring with precision and ease.

As predicted, it lands around his target’s neck. He receives a round of applause, to which he responds with a dramatic bow. Lan Wangji picks up the second ring and follows his lead. With a hand behind his back, he flicks his wrist, sending the ring flying and landing around his target neatly.

Their prizes come flying at their faces, their arms encircling around the stuffed animals with care. Pleased, Wei Wuxian waves an arm over his head. “Thank you! Keep the third ring, we’re satisfied.” He hides half of his face behind the white stuffed bunny in his hands. “Is Lan Zhan still upset?”

Lan Wangji tucks his own dark stuffed rabbit safely inside a quankin pouch. “Boring,” He says but he does wait for Wei Wuxian to catch up to him.

Wei Wuxian will take that as ‘No’.

They arrive back in Cloud Recesses an hour before curfew, their stomachs stuffed and cheeks flushed with merry.

While Lan Wangji frees his hair from its heavy ornament, Wei Wuxian prepares their table for their routine before-dinner tea time. A time spent to relax their minds and bodies in each other’s company. He pours himself a cup of tea, two cups of water, and waits for Lan Wangji’s tea to finish boiling.

The Yiling Patriarch stands up and perches Suibian beside Bichen in the swords’ stand. Stretching his arms behind his head, he decides to remove his outermost robes. His movements halt when he hears thud from the low table behind him. When he turns, he finds Lan Wangji seated on his usual seat, his head on the table. He tries to recall if he had segregated the cups accordingly and can’t remember if he placed the cup of Emperor’s smile or a cup of water in front of Lan Wangji’s seat. The darkness of the room and the design of the porcelain cups also didn’t help.

Lan Wangji is a man who falls asleep before getting drunk. He’s an enigma like that. So Wei Wuxian waits it out, hoping not to wreck havoc in Cloud Recesses all because his roommate couldn’t hold his alcohol. It takes them full ten minutes before the Second Jade of Lan springs back up, looking like his normal self, sober to rigidity. His slow blinks at Wei Wuxian’s direction says otherwise.

“Lan Zhan?” He tries, knowing full well the man is inebriated out of his mind. “Please don’t go crazy again. We’re in Cloud Recesses,” He pleas, biting his lip in dread for what the night has in store.

Lan Wangji puckers out his lower lip out, and eyes the table. His eyes narrow at the jar of Emperor’s Smile beside Wei Wuxian’s set of cutleries.

“Hey. Don’t get angry. You’re the one who purchased them for me, you know,” He says defensively.

His drunk friend continues to narrow his eyes. Wei Wuxian’s jaw hangs open when Lan Wangji leans forward and snatches the jar up. “Mine,” He declares, cradling the jar.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t even fathom how crazy Lan Wangji could become with a cup of liquor. What madness will he manifest if he drunk a whole jar of liquor? Will Wei Wuxian survive? Will it cause his second death?

Akin to approaching a wild beast, he stands up slowly and walks around the table towards Lan Wangji, his hands before him to calm his companion. “Lan Zhan, drop the jar,” He requests, calculating how to snatch it back from Lan Wangji’s otherworldly arm strength. “Let’s go to bed, and sleep.”

Lan Wangji frowns at him, then looks down at the jar in his arms. “Mine,” He repeats, crawling back without his usual grace. When Wei Wuxian takes another step forward, the Second Jade of Lan goes to his feet, tucking the jar of liquor underneath his chin. “No,” He protests.

“Lan Zhan. Step away from the Emperor’s Smile.”

“No!” Lan Wangji objects, sprinting towards the divider with his bedroom behind it.

Clicking his tongue, he goes after Lan Wangji, hoping no one is near enough to hear the commotion they are creating minutes before curfew. “Come back here, Lan Zhan!” He hisses, stepping over the table to grab onto the man’s robes. He returns empty-handed.

Lan Wangji runs around the divider, peeking from the side when Wei Wuxian stops to devise a plan to catch the man. “Wei Ying?” He calls out. He sounds incredibly young despite his deep voice.

He smiles at the endearing sight. “Yes, Lan Zhan?” He asks, amused at the doe-eyed expression on his friend’s face.

“No more running?”

“Are you returning the jar?”

He receives a stubborn shake of head. “No.” He hides half of his face behind the jar, mumbling, “I’ll give it. Catch me first.”

He gapes at his companion, wondering if he heard every word correctly. “You want me to chase you? You want to play?”

“Wei Ying don’t want?” Lan Wangji asks back, shoulders sagging with disappointment. Wei Wuxian’s hands fly over his mouth, cheeks flushed and stifling the need to squeal at seeing the appealing display of childishness.

“I do!” He instantly assures, unable to resist those golden eyes. “If I caught you, you would give the jar back. Okay?”

A nod. Then, Lan Wangji resumes running away again. Wei Wuxian throws logic out with the wind and moves in instinct. The Twin Jade of Lan has always been quick on his feet, it’s no surprise Wei Wuxian is outran every time he almost caught up. He pushes the limit of his reach, and nearly got hold of the tails of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon until the other gasps lightly and jumps back with the help of the low table as a barricade between them.

Wei Wuxian, panting and laughing, jumps after him. Voice high in delight, he warns Lan Wangji, who is hiding behind the divider again, “Don’t let me catch you or you would get your nose nipped!”

His eyes widen when the moment he turns around, he has bumped into Lan Wangji. Wei Wuxian’s heart swells, watching the smugness in Lan Wangji’s eyes. It seems he has been caught. “Caught you!” Wei Wuxian declares, going on his toes to nip Lan Wangji’s cute nose. “That’s what you get for running away.” He lifts his hands and pinches reddening cheeks from exhaustion. “And that’s what you get for being naughty.”

Lan Wangji seems pleased with his punishments, letting himself be led to the low table. He surrenders the jar of liquor and places his chin on his folded arms on the table, watching the flicker of candle in the middle. After a minute of silence, the drunk Hanguang-Jun takes out his dark stuffed rabbit and stares at it.

Wei Wuxian grabs his own white one and sits it beside the dark one. Tentatively, he picks up the dark one and makes his own squeaky as he hops it around the table, “Lan Zhan, it’s question and answer time.”

Lan Wangji has had his eyes closed. But he opens them after half a minute and, bless his pure heart, picks up the white one and makes it nod. “Mn.”

Hmm. What to ask? What to ask? He starts with a soft and easy one. “Have you ever purposely broken a GusuLan Sect rule?”

The white bunny stares sadly at the ground. “Yes.”

It was such an endearing action, he couldn’t help giggling. “Have you,” He pauses. “ever kissed anyone?”

Lan Wangji blinks twice then looks up at him with a guilty expression. “Yes,” He admits quietly.

That shouldn’t make his heart feel so heavy. He brought this upon himself. “Waah. Lan Zhan, who is it?”

Golden eyes look down at their owner’s lap for several moments, signifying Lan Wangji’s refusal to answer. Then he raises his gaze again, their expression even guiltier than earlier. Wei Wuxian frowns. Why is he given that reaction? It wasn’t like he would force an answer out of him. And it wasn’t like he was the one kissed.

Wei Wuxian lightly pats the white stuffed bunny’s head. “Alright, alright, I’ll let that one go.” He hums and doesn’t dare look when he queries, “Do you—uh—do you like Young Master Gen?”

“Mn.”

He tries his hardest not to, yet he feels like a sword has gotten through his chest – nice and neat. It almost felt like Bichen’s work. He opens and closes his mouth, unable to find words.

“He’s a friend. A good friend.”

He forces himself to turn his head, praying for honesty within those eyes, praying that he understood the words the way he should. “A…a friend?”

Lan Wangji hops his stuffed bunny until it’s nuzzling against the dark one. He has a solemn expression on his face when he answers, “Gen Lei is really nice. He’s alright with being my friend for now. I like him.”

Oh. Oh. Wei Wuxian could almost see the darkness enveloping his heart evaporate into the air. He exhales. “Oh. That’s great—but,” He gulps, leaning to see Lan Wangji’s face. “—you two might still marry?” If he choked up a little at asking the question, thanking Heavens Lan Wangji wouldn’t remember a single detail of tonight.

The Second Jade of Lan gradually looks up to meet his gaze. He seems so sad. “Do you want me to?”

Do I want him to? Did he just ask if I wanted him to?

He lets out a disbelieving huff. “Lan Zhan, asking me that is like asking me if I wanted you to be gone from my life. Asking me that is like questioning me if you still had place in my existence. Asking me that is like asking me if you ever mattered to me,” He snaps. “I know deep within me that I don’t, because I might lose the only thing most precious to me. But I want you to be happy!”

He doesn’t know where the frustration is coming from. But it’s been months, and he feels like he’s overflowing with emotions he couldn’t understand, he feels suffocated with words begging to come out. He never shuts up, why should he now?

“Do you know how important you are to me?” Lan Wangji asks, tone almost angry.

He clenches his jaw. “Do you?”

His companion deflates. “Then, what am I to you?” Lan Wangji whispers, voice small.

The question knocks the breath out of him. He’s thrown into a memory in Phoenix Mountain – of them having almost the same conversation. It’s a lifetime away, yet here he is again, weighing who Lan Wangji is to him as if it was ever a question to begin with.

He repeats himself, “I once saw you as my soulmate in that lifetime.” It feels right and wrong to say it the way he did.

Lan Wangji notices the difference. “I still am in this lifetime,” He insists. “If you tried to see, hear and feel -- I could still be. I’m still trying to be.”

The loud crash of Emperor’s Smile jar against the floor echoes in the jingshi. Swallowing, Wei Wuxian tries to steady his voice when he asks the next question, “You’re already sober, aren’t you?”

Lan Wangji closes his eyes, and nods.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian can feel his world crashing down. Courage brought by making Lan Wangji accidentally drunk, he never really weighed the consequences brought by the possibility that Lan Wangj might sober up in the middle of his interrogation.

He has played with fire, and the intensity in those golden eyes when they reopen to meet his gaze is burning him inside out.

“Have long have been sober?” He whispers, his hands shaking against the edges of the low table.

Lan Wangji takes few moments to find his courage to talk. “Since your interrogation started.”

The answer feels like a hold around his ankles, pulling him into a dark hole that has destroyed the little universe they created. He is on his feet before his mind catches up with his intentions. He tunes out the call of his name as he runs out of the jingshi. He never even realized that it began to rain. Paying it no mind, he runs. He dodges the night patrols, and escapes out the gate of Cloud Recesses. His heart is a dug hole in his chest when he finally comes into a stop in the meadow their bunnies reside on. It isn’t exactly the best hiding spot, but he never intended to hide.

He just has to get out of that suffocating room, out of that ruined universe he always thought they could protect.

The rain is still pouring, soaking him to the bones, but he doesn’t feel it. The drops on the ground resonates, but he hears nothing. The skies are bright despite the downpour, but he doesn’t see it. His mind is buzzing with incomprehensible thoughts, yet it feels empty.

Crouching on the ground, he hides his face in his hands, shutting his eyes tightly -- hoping to wake up from a miserable nightmare, hoping to be re-born again, hoping he has transcended time and landed in the wrong timeline. But when he opens his eyes, it sinks in that everything that happened truly did happen. And none of it could be returned the way it was.

The rain seems to have stopped. Wei Wuxian raises his gaze and realizes that it hasn’t, that an umbrella is protecting him from the downpour, and that he has been found. He musters up his remaining courage and looks over his shoulder at Lan Wangji who has his arm extended –using the only umbrella he brought to shield Wei Wuxian from the rain while getting drenched himself. “Why are you here?” The Yiling Patriarch snarls.

His tone makes Lan Wangji flinch. “Wei Ying…”

He scoffs. “Was it fun for you to pretend to be drunk? Was it fun to give me that false sense of courage at the face of your drunkness? Was it fun to be interrogated with questions, so that you wouldn’t say those answers yourself unless asked?” He spits, going to his feet, letting the anger he felt out of his mouth formed into words.

Lan Wangji looks down on the ground. “You wouldn’t ask unless I’m drunk.”

“So, in the end it’s my fault?”

Lan Wangji frowns. “I didn’t say that.”

“No, you just meant you’re thankful I asked. Because you’re a coward.”

“Isn’t what you’ve done cowardice too?”

Wei Wuxian huffs out an angry exhale, scoops up a handful of mud and throws it towards Lan Wangji’s chest. The man doesn’t bother to block it. “Fine, we’re both cowards! What do you want? Why can’t you just leave me alone?”

“I can’t. You’re upset,” Hanguang-Jun answers, matter-of-fact. Heavens, I want to hate him.

He grits his teeth and clenches his fists on his sides. “Lan Zhan, I am confused beyond my understanding. It feels like I am questioning everything. It feels like I don’t even know myself anymore. It feels worse than when I was consumed by demonic cultivation in my past lifetime, and I hate it!” He bursts out.

Lan Wangji reacts like he has been struck by lightning.

But Wei Wuxian doesn’t see it, consumed by the range of emotions within him he couldn’t control. “Everything is changing, just when I thought I would find some stability in my second life, everything gets out of control. It terrifies me, Lan Zhan,” He admits, shaking. “It terrifies me what these changes could bring. In the past, they made me lost everything. Will they take the rest away in my second lifetime? Will they take what we have away? Will they take you away? Even the mere thought pains me so much.”

The Second Jade of Lan swallows, silent.

Wei Wuxian runs a hand down his face. “I know and I feel that I am important to you. You never gave me a reason not to feel that. And you are important to me too. Terribly so.”

“But?” Lan Wangji prompts, meeting his gaze, waiting for the worst. There is a small, sad smile on his face. It seems misplaced.

He closes his eyes and grits his teeth. “I am exhausted.” The last word comes sharper than he intends. “I have lived two lifetimes, Lan Zhan. I am tired of the expectations. I am tired of the confusion. I am tired of the changes. You know what they did to me. You know how I ended up.” He opens his eyes, and shakes his head. “I just want to live and fulfil our wish on the field while flying those lanterns.”

A tear escapes his eye. “Lan Zhan, you’re special to me. Giving in into these thoughts, and answering these questions could possibly take you away from me. I can’t live with it; I’m not ready for it. So, please, please, just let me stay by your side.”

“The way it has been,” Lan Wangji adds for confirmation. His sudden blank expression betrays nothing of what runs in his mind.

“The way it has been,” He agrees, his first tear is followed by another, and another. “Whatever you decide, I’ll support you. To be by your side and be your confidant is enough for me. I hope that will be enough for you as well.”

Everything he has said so far was the truth, except for this.

Lan Wangji’s hand tightens around the umbrella’s handle. “Are you certain this is what you want?” He mumurs.

Give me this. “Yes.”

“Will this make you happy?”

I’m not certain, but I have been uncertain of a lot of things for a while. “Yes.”

The Second Jade of Lan’s jaw clenches close, eyes falling on the clearing they just frolicked around weeks ago. It feels like a faraway dream.

Wei Wuxian strides on. “So, Lan Zhan, let’s forget what happened earlier in the jingshi. Please?” He whispers, desperate for a steady ground to stand on.

The man he has considered his soulmate, Lan Wangji, the esteemed Hanguang-Jun, lifts his eyes to stare right back at him. He opens then shuts his mouth, surrendering to silence he has grown accustomed to. After a gruelling minute of waiting in the Yiling Patriarch’s part, Lan Wangji inclines his head. “Forget it.”

Acceptance.

They stare at each other for several moments, the heaviness of their hearts evident with the flutter of their eyelashes against their cheeks. Lan Wangji steps forward, gently wraps Wei Wuxian’s hand around the handle of the umbrella, and steps back under the rain. “See you tomorrow, Wei Ying.”

Wei Wuxian nods, and turns around, unable to watch the other leave. Therefore, he doesn’t see the tears leaving Lan Wangji’s eyes as he departs, doesn’t see the sadness in those tense set of shoulders, and doesn’t see the blood drip down Lan Wangji’s chin as he bites his lip so hard --to stifle his sob-- it bleeds. Because Wei Wuxian is already on his knees, swallowing down his own sobs with an arm pressed on his eyelids.

Three months into the start of his official courtship, Gen Lei returns the third time to Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian has not seen the man for over two months, yet he cannot say that he has missed his presence. It isn’t that he hates the man, his presence just seems to bring dark clouds in Wei Wuxian’s life. He’s still confused on why.

Several cultivators, who usually patrolled Cloud Recesses day and night, returns from the entrance to announce the arrival of Meilin’s Gen Lei. Since he has chosen to appear on the one day off of the students, his arrival party is larger than normal comprising of Lan Qiren, the Twin Jades of Lan, Sizhui, Jingyi and Jin Ling. The last three just barged in and were invited to stay by Lan Xichen.

Standing beside Lan Wangji after what transpired last night seems strange for Wei Wuxian. When he returned to the jingshi, his companion was already asleep like the dead. When they woke up, they have gone through the usual morning routine per usual. The atmosphere feels heavier but they both ignored it. Lan Wangji has been his typical self, silent, and standing with grace and elegance embodying a statue made of jade. Zeuw-Jun and Sizhui eyed them both when they arrived, but neither raised his concern or question.

Gen Lei’s bright robes are the first thing they see as he makes a turn towards the Yashi. He raises an eyebrow at the two individuals following after the man. “Jiang Cheng? Huaisang?” He exclaims in surprise once their Sect robes are visible and recognizeable from where he stands.

Huaisang opens his fan and extends his arm with it over his head, foregoing elegance when he shouts back, “Brother Wei!” with equal excitement. Before he could run off, Jiang Cheng blocks his path with an arm and a glare of warning.

Once in front of them, their three Sect leader visitors bow courteously at the same time and manner. In return, they salute back out of politeness.

The moment he gets to straighten up, Nie Huaisang has sprung himself onto Wei Wuxian, rumbling about the recent developments and issues he’s facing in Qinghe. Wei Wuxian honestly doesn’t want to be roped into helping, so he just hums and nods along.

Jin Ling is hiding behind the younger Lan disciples when Jiang Cheng’s eyes land on him. “I heard someone has tried Emperor’s Smile, and has been tasked to transcribe the GusuLan Sect rules thrice while handstanding,” The YunmengJiang Sect leader announces, smirking at his nephew.

“Yeah, I’ve done it! You said to experience as much as I can while I’m in here!” Jin Ling protests, peeking through Sizhui’s shoulder.

Wei Wuxian guffaws at the news. “Dang, Jiang Cheng, looks like he got you there.”

“I didn’t tell him to experience things that would cause trouble!” Jiang Cheng growls, stomping a foot on the ground. Jin Ling yelps and hides behind his friends at the height of the man’s irritation. “You really want me to break your legs, don’t you?”

Before Jiang Cheng could stride towards his nephew, Lan Xichen has gotten hold of the back of his collar. “Now, now, Sect Leader Jiang, I fully remember you receiving the bastinados for the same reason as Young Master Jin when we were younger. Doesn’t that just justify he’s truly your nephew?”

Jiang Cheng’s face turns red, surrendering. “Why do you embarrass me?”

“Because you’re easy to rile up,” Zewu-Jun admits, chuckling.

Nie Huaisang whistles lowly upon witnessing the scene. “Looks like there’s progress on that side of the war. How about in yours, Brother Wei? Finding any crumbs to fill that void in your brain?”

“Your words wound me, Huaisang! I am a genius, thank you very much!”

“Unless it’s about your own feelings. Don’t change the subject. When it comes to deflecting, you’re talking to the best in all worlds,” Huaisang declares while fanning himself.

Wei Wuxian looks at him with disdain. “That’s a stupid thing to be proud of.”

He should have expected the fan that his face gets smacked with. Huaisang turns away with an offended huff. Rubbing his nose, the Yiling Patriarch huffs back at his friend before lifting his gaze. His heart jumps at seeing Lan Wangji watching them with a cold expression. Realizing he’s been caught staring, the Second Jade of Lan swiftly looks away.

Gen Lei heartily watches each scene unfolding before them. But he does witness the way Lan Wangji avoids Wei Wuxian’s eyes. The man is not stupid, eyeing the considerable distance between he and the Twin Jade of Lan. When he looks up at Wei Wuxian, his expressions holds annoyance, What the hell did you do?

He returns it with a scowl. None of your business.

Their attention returns in front with the argument that begins between Lan Jingyi and Jin Ling. “You’re the one who purchased and sneaked it in. I still don’t understand why not seeing your wonder dog would turn you into a rebel,” Jingyi grumbles, rolling his eyes.

“At the very least I could hold my liquor, unlike someone who just had one glass and had begun jumping on his bed like a crazy person,” Jin Ling retorts, crossing his arms over his chest.

“How dare you! If it wasn’t for me, you would have slept outside with a hangover.”

“If it wasn’t for me, you would have fallen from your bed and broke your neck!”

“You cried over your wonder dog!” Jingyi accuses, pointing at LanlingJin Sect’s young leader.

“You cried over Hanguang-Jun’s beauty!” Jin Ling shouts back, flailing his arms.

Wei Wuxian steals a glance at said beautiful man, and finds Lan Wangji raising an eyebrow at the odd compliment.

Face crimson from embarrassment, Jingyi raises his arms and begins to slap the ends of his sleeves at Jin Ling’s face. Jin Ling, not one to back down, retrieves his bow and smacks it on Jingyi’s head.

Sizhui glances at the adults around them, his eyes lingering on Lan Qiren’s ticking eyebrows and Hanguang-Jun’s blank expression, then decides to interfere. “Alright, you two, calm down—oof!” They watch with amusement as the gentle junior gets himself smacked on the forehead by Jingyi’s sleeve and Jin Ling’s bow. He merely blinks and tries harder, voice firmer, “Jingyi, Young Master Jin, stop it—eep!” He barely dodges the next wave of attack. He sighs, and faces the adult with a lowbow. Afterwards, he goes and uses his own sleeves to slap Jingyi’s and Jin Ling’s faces. “Stop it. Now.”

Baffled to silence, Jingyi and Jin Ling comply, separating at their own accord after one look at Sizhui’s stern face. Sizhui smiles at his accomplishment and stands in between his two friends as if nothing happened.

Lan Qiren huffs a breath, shaking his head in exasperation. Lan Xichen is hiding his chuckles behind a sleeve. Jiang Cheng looks one second away from chasing away his nephew out of Cloud Recesses. Nie Huaisang has an expression filled with nostalgia. Gen Lei seems like he would have wanted to join in with the fun but decided against the idea.

Wei Wuxian cackles, shaking his head as he places his arm on Huaisang’s shoulder. “Good job, Sizhui. You’ve mastered your stern look. He’s truly your son, Lan Zhan,” He teases, winking at the Second Jade of Lan.

He has been grasping for any semblance of normalcy between them, toeing lines he could and couldn’t cross. It has been a battle between avoiding the man or acting as if nothing happened. He proposed the latter last night, he couldn’t back down now.

He is afraid that Lan Wangji isn’t inclined to agree with his chosen path, staring at Wei Wuxian silently for several moments with an indecipherable look. He side-eyes Sizhui, “As he is yours.” Gen Lei seems to have stopped breathing, frantically looking from Lan Wangji to Wei Wuxian – the information foreign to him. Wei Wuxian doesn’t comprehend where the sense of triumph within him comes from. “He has a talent for troublemaking occasionally.”

Sizhui’s cheeks flush. More pleased with the teasing than embarrassed.

Huaisang decides to address the question in half of the people’s mind. He raises a hand and whispers, “Lan Sizhui is your,” He glances at both the Yiling Patriarch and Hanguang-Jun, “son?”

“I birthed him!” He declares.

“Wei Ying.” Lan Wangji’s tone has a hint of warning in it.

Smirking, he turns towards the man. “What?” He whines. “I answered the same way when you first saw me with A-Yuan, and you’re still against it? I did birth him.” He leans closer, tapping Chenqing on his hip. “Oh-ho, did you want to father him when he developed in my womb?”

He has realized the implications of his words after he has spoken them, eyes widening.

He holds his breath for Lan Wangji’s bitter reaction. What he gets instead is a roll of eyes and an emotionless, “You would wish.”

Wei Wuxian couldn’t help his gaping at the response, at how sincere and cheeky it sounded.

“Wait, wait, what?” Jiang Cheng growls. “Stop having your own world and give us some clarification! Not you, Lan Wangji – I don’t understand your short phrased answers. Wei Wuxian!”

With a cold look towards the man, Jiang Cheng’s lips suddenly seal shut. A panicked look passes by his face, then he’s shouting non-coherent profanities towards Lan Wangji, his mouth shut.

Lan Xichen takes pity for all parties, and opts to explain everything, “Lan Sizhui is a child Young Master Wei has adopted and taken care of for several months. The two of them met Wangji once in a teahouse, talked, and the young Sizhui had gotten attached to Wangji. After Young Master Wei’s demise, Wangji took it upon himself to adopt Sizhui as his own, raising him under GusuLan Sect and in Cloud Recesses.”

Sizhui chuckles at everyone’s shocked reaction, pointing at Hanguang-Jun, “That’s my father,” and then points at the Yiling Patriarch, “and that’s my Dad.”

Silence stretches for a while, and just when Wei Wuxian thought they had broken the visitors enough, Sizhui grins and declares, “Oh, and Wen Ning is my Uncle.”

To say that Cloud Recesses erupts with cries of disbelief of several Sect Leaders is an understatement.

Lan Wangji notices Gen Lei’s absence after the ruckus they have created in front of Yashi. Due to the noise and misconduct, they all receive a punishment of kneeling in front of the Wall of Discipline for three hours by Lan Qiren. It was a sight to behold: the esteemed Twin Jades of Lan, the Yiling Patriarch, two outside Sect Leaders, and three junior disciples kneeling on small pebbles while a feet apart. Gen Lei was set aside to merely observe since he didn’t create any trouble in the first place – he disappeared halfway through the others’ punishment.

Lan Wangji is placed to kneel right in front of the group with his brother beside him. He isn’t sure if it was out of consideration for Lan Wangji or to not experience early death, but Lan Qiren orders Wei Wuxian towards the very back beside his adoptive brother. Lan Xichen doesn’t seem bothered kneeling despite his position in the cultivation world and age, humming along to one of the pieces he’s currently learned.

After an hour of silence on his part, his brother finally approaches him, “Wangji.”

He inclines his head. “Brother.”

A pregnant pause. “Are you alright? Did you and Young Master Wei argue? You seem tense around each other.”

His mind floods him with memories of the previous evening: the confusion, anger and pain in Wei Wuxian’s eyes as he begs Lan Wangji not to let things change between them. He recalls the painful clench of his gut as he realizes that he has caused the Yiling Patriarch such pain, because of his selfishness and cowardice – his words stuck in his throat that he needed alcohol to initiate the conversation.

“We talked. I caused him so much pain. I was selfish and a coward.”

His brother’s eyebrows furrow, first in confusion before anger. “Why are you saying such things, Wangji? What happened? Have you told him?”

“From his words, he doesn’t want me to. He doesn’t want and need the change.” He lowers his eyes, clenching his hands on his lap. “He’s happy the way things are; him being by my side is enough for him.”

“Wangji, you’re bleeding,” Lan Xichen murmurs, placing his hand on top of Lan Wangji’s fists. He didn’t even realize that he had clenched them so hard his nails had bitten off the skin of his palms. Blood drips on the front of his white robes – it reminds of him the blood that spluttered when he received the discipline whips. “Wangji—what—“

Lan Wangji stands up upon seeing his Uncle’s approach. “Grand Master,” He calls, bowing. His Uncle halts to address him with a frown. “I have drank liquor in the jingshi last night. Please punish me accordingly.”

Please, I beg you, punish me accordingly.

Lan Qiren looks like he’s been struck. There is a sharp intake of breath then pebbles crunching under boots. “Lan Zhan, what are you doing?” Wei Wuxian hisses from the very back. “Grand Master, I was the one who asked him to purchase the jar of Emperor’s Smile.”

Barely giving Lan Qiren enough time to process that, the Second Jade of Lan adds, still bowing, “He didn’t drink a single drop because we dropped the jar after I drank a glass.”

“Why—Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian snaps from where he stands. “I have been drinking Emperor’s Smile behind Grand Master Lan’s back for months now. What are you—“

“—You don’t live under the GusuLan Sect rules. You’re a free spirit I welcomed in Cloud Recesses. I, on the other hand, am the Chief Cultivator.” He lowers his head even further. He hears his brother call his name from beside him, pleading him to stop whatever he’s doing. “Lan Wangji accepts his mistake.”

“Will you let it happen again?” His Uncle snarls.

He gulps. “I will not lie, Uncle.”

Lan Qiren looks like he has expected as much. His gaze travels from him to Wei Wuxian, expression scorned yet also thoughtful. He studies Lan Wangji for several moments, dissecting where this seemed to come from. He comes to a decision after a minute, “Very well. You will receive thirty blows of the bastinados.”

“Uncle!” Lan Xichen protests, going to his feet.

“Stay kneeling, Xichen, or I will raise it to forty.” With that threat, Grand Master Lan turns and calls for an elder disciple. The disciple pales as he receives the order.

Lan Wangji returns to his station, kneeling, his back straight and chin held high. He doesn’t even blink when the disciple returns with one of the discipline sticks. Lan Xichen’s gaze darts from him to the disciple in panic. “Please cover the juniors’ eyes,” He requests to the familiar man. The disciple nods and sends gestures towards the other disciples who had also followed after him.

“Oy—what—“ Jin Ling protests.

“Hanguang-Jun!” Jingyi and Sizhui complains from several rows behind him.

“Wait, wait, wa—no!” Wei Wuxian growls the same time Lan Qiren poises himself in front of Lan Wangji --the disciple going behind the latter with the discipline stick raised—and orders, “Begin!”

Lan Wangji wholeheartedly accepts the punishment, barely reacting at each blow on his back. He should have expected that Wei Wuxian wouldn’t stand still, flinging himself beside Lan Wangji right after the fifth blow lands. “What the hell are you doing, Lan Zhan?” He snaps, wincing when another blow knocks onto Lan Wangji’s back. “Do you really like getting punished?” He asks desperately.

For causing you pain when I promised the Heavens I would never again, this is nothing.

“I deserve it,” He mumbles, jaw clenching when the eleventh blow lands on a tender skin where scars from the discipline whip intersected.

With the loud clash of the bastinado against his back, and the others’ loud sympathetic protest or flinching, only the two of them could hear their whispers. Only he hears when Wei Wuxian says with utmost sincerity, “No, you don’t. You’ve been good. You’ve done nothing wrong since you were born, Lan Zhan. Nothing.”

“I stole from you.” It’s been something that has been running in his mind. Despite his desires, he never has the right to steal a kiss. Never. He should know better.

“I am tragically poor, whatever it must have been isn’t worth much.”

Lan Wangji shuts his eyes, gritting his teeth against another blow. “I let you go from that cliff.”

Wei Wuxian sucks in a breath, “Lan Zhan, that’s—“

“—I have caused you pain since I accepted Gen Lei’s courtship.” He isn’t blind nor stupid.

“You didn’t! You’re allowed to be selfish—“

“—I keep on abandoning you when you need me most.”

That seems to be the last blow that triggers Wei Wuxian. The Yiling Patriarch stands up and raises his arms, blocking Lan Wangji from the twentieth blow. “Stop it!” He screams. “If you hit him one more time, you will feel the wrath of the Yiling Patriarch,” Wei Wuxian mutters darkly, sending shivers down everyone’s spine.

Lan Wangji’s vision begins to blurry, his head spinning. Before everything disappears, his last thought is,

I’ll be good. I promise I’ll be good. Please stay.

It has also been his last thought before the gentian house’s door never opened to let him see his mother again.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t believe his eyes and ears. He grits his teeth and goes to the left, and gets his path blocked yet again. Irritated, he slams a hand against Gen Lei but it barely does anything. “Let me through!” He growls, using his forearms to try getting through the man.

Gen Lei crosses his arms in front of his chest and heaves back, sending Wei Wuxian stumbling few steps backwards. “No,” He answers, resolute.

Behind the MeilinGen Sect’s leader is the door leading into the infirmary where Lan Wangji is situated after collapsing in front of the Discipline Wall. Wei Wuxian begrudgingly finished his own punishment of kneeling before he was give permission to visit, clambering on his feet once he received authorisation to stand up. Yet, the moment he arrived in the sick room, Gen Lei had stepped out and barricaded the door with his own body.

“I want to see Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian insists, grabbing the man’s arms to pull him out of the doorway. It is a game of tag with Gen Lei ending up winning. “God damn it, man, what is your problem?”

Gen Lei’s response is instant. “You are.”

He puffs out a disbelieving breath. “Lan Zhan was my friend before he was yours. Let me through,” He punctuates his annoyance by enunciating each word of the last sentence.

“Until you get some sense into that brain of yours, you can’t get through me.”

“Hey! You don’t have the right to talk to him like that!” Jiang Cheng protests, breaking his silence from behind Wei Wuxian. “Only I can tell him he’s an absolute asshole.”

“Thank you, Jiang Cheng—“

“—You’re fucking welcome.“

Gen Lei clenches his jaw and tightens his hold around Shexian. “Why do you insist on this, Wei Wuxian? Why do you insist on whatever this is? You’re hurting him.”

It would feel better to get stabbed than to hear those words.

“So is Brother Wei,” Huaisang murmurs from where he’s leaning against a pillar on the side. He closes his fan and taps it against his arm. “Hanguang-Jun isn’t the only one in pain with the situation they are in.”

“They make each other miserable,” Jiang Cheng agrees. “It’s their expertise since we were younger. It’s nothing new, frankly.”

Wei Wuxian looks over his shoulder and glances from his adoptive brother to the person he has considered his somehow-best friend when they were younger. Years have passed, and tragedies have struck – changing all of them. It is funny how the universe tangled their lives altogether again. It isn’t going to change the past, but it did show that they have learned.

The door opens, and Lan Xichen couldn’t hold in his surprise at the scene before him. One look around gives him enough insight on what had transpired, smiling patiently. Shutting the door behind him, he acknowledges them with a polite nod. “Thank you for visiting my brother. He’s still asleep. The physician told us not to worry since Wangji’s body merely needs rest. He will be back on his feet by the end of the day.”

The relief is palpable in the air after he has spoken. Wei Wuxian steps forward but Gen Lei steps into his path again. “Zewu-Jun, can I please see Lan Zhan?”

Lan Xichen lowers his eyes and glances at the closed door behind him. He lightly shakes his head. “I believe it is best that you cool down first, Young Master Wei. My brother is not fragile, neither are you. You could survive without seeing each other for a day.”

He wants to be angry at Zewu-Jun, yet he couldn’t. Not when he sees a man, who has his younger brother’s well being as one of his top priorities.

Surrendering for the time being, he bows curtly and turns around. Huaisang and Jiang Cheng follow after him, giving their own short bows at Lan Xichen and Gen Lei.

Wei Wuxian, cussing with the abundant curse words he had acculumated in both lifetimes, throws himself on small river at the Back Mountain where he and Huaisang used to catch fish. The coldness of the water seeps into his very bones, reminding him of the night before. He swims for a while before flipping himself to float on the water, face upwards, facing the clear blue skies and bright sun.

That’s when he feels others’ presence and realizes that Huaisang and Jiang Cheng had tailed after him; both men are sitting on an upturned stone, dipping their feet into the water, their swords beside them. The three of them regard one another silently, letting the minutes trickle by.

“Jiang Cheng,” He calls out, spraying some water towards his adoptive brother. Jiang Cheng grimaces at his childish action, but raises an eyebrow to tell him that he has his attention. “Why would you like someone?”

With Jiang Cheng’s expression, he’s certain that he remembers how Wei Wuxian once asked the same thing at Jiang Yanli when she was still alive, and life was still like the springs season. “Why are you asking me this? Do I look like I have an idea?”

“Well,” He smirks, “Zewu-Jun seems to incline to agree—holy shit!” He ducks underwater when his adoptive brother doesn’t hesitate with throwing a rock at him. “Lan Zhan will be sad if I died again, you purple bean!”

Hanguang-Jun’s name stills them all. Wei Wuxian takes some time to float again.

“I don’t know what answer you want me to give,” Jiang Cheng grumbles, rolling his eyes. “Where is this coming from?”

“I just don’t see why anyone would like another person that much. It feels like a leash keeping you from your freedom, doesn’t it?” He babbles. “You two have witnessed both of my lifetimes. The first one didn’t end up greatly. The world suddenly flipped upside down, leaving us grasping for straws towards survival. From being a genius for inventing demonic cultivation, I was suddenly the most hated cultivator to exist. I was suddenly the traitor, the odd one out, the devil. Just because things kept on changing and I changed with it, but somehow I was wronged. Everything backfired, sending me to my death – no family, no friend, nobody.

When I next opened my eyes, I was back in the mortal world having no idea where I was for sixteen years. I tried not to make any changes in my new life, because I have experienced the tragedies changes bring. I just wanted the people I cherished safe, not to clean my name but to fulfil the promise we made under those flying lanterns when we were still teenagers. Afterwards, I thought everything would be alright. I had Lan Zhan by my side even after I left him for months to roam the world. We had each other and that always seemed enough.”

“Because you thought the changing tides would create havoc in the stability your friendship created?” Jiang Cheng guesses, playing with the ring around his finger. “Did it ever occur to you that you’ve never been a man destined for stability?”

“I was traumatized by my past lifetime, Jiang Cheng. It’s what I what wanted.”

“But not what you needed!” His adoptive brother hisses, shaking his head at Wei Wuxian’s pout at being yelled at. “What does this have to do with your original question?”

Wei Wuxian sighs, sprinkling some water on his face. “I never once doubted Lan Zhan’s loyalty. I used to, but he showed me otherwise when I was reborn. I told him that I would prefer if things stayed the same for us, because of my fear of changes. He agreed, and that is what I wanted. But it also isn’t?” He sinks his head underwater for few seconds before resurfacing. “I like Lan Zhan.”

“Finally,” Huaisang whispers from where he sits, but Wei Wuxian doesn’t hear it with the water in his ears.

“—I like him as a special friend—“

“Damn it,” Huaisang sighs. Jiang Cheng muffles his laughter at his friend’s disappointment with a cough.

Wei Wuxian is unaware, continuing with his tirade, “—He’s the greatest person I know. He’s my favourite person in the whole world. I like him so much that it scares me. I don’t even know why.”

“Don’t know why you like him so much or why it scares you?”

“Both!” He shouts, scooping handfuls of water to slap on his face. “Because a man shouldn’t be this attached to another. Besides, he’s Hanguang-Jun and I am the Yiling Patriarch, being his close friend already ruins his reputation enough. To make him a special friend might destroy him from the cultivation world forever.” He sulks, swirling circles on the waters. “I don’t even know why he keeps me by his side.”

Huaisang breaks his silence. “Close your eyes and imagine this, Brother Wei.” He complies and shuts his eyes. “As per the stories, you two had clashed when it came to your beliefs about demonic cultivation. Yet, in the end, he protected you against your own puppets and against his own allies. He fought against you because you were losing yourself. Then, he fought alongside you so that you would see you would be able to save your sister. When the tragedy had happened and you were on that cliff, imagine if he threw himself after you to push you back onto the solid ground sacrificing himself on your behalf? Imagine watching Lan Wangji slip into that void, not to be seen again.”

Lan Wangji bloodied hand releasing Wei Wuxian’s, closing his eyes to accept his fate. His hair fanning out around his head, his white robes looking truly like mourning clothes around him. Wei Wuxian unable to do anything but watch as the man falls to his death. When Wei Wuxian goes down to look for his corpse, he doesn’t see even feel his spirit. Gone.

Wei Wuxian’s heart hammers painfully against his chest. He gasps out a breath and almost drowns, surfacing back with difficulty. “Damn you, Huaisang!” He shouts when he manages to breathe again.

Huaisang has a triumphant look behind his fan, knowing full well the effect of the activity to Wei Wuxian. “Tell me, Brother Wei, would you have let him out of your sight when he resurcafes back from the dead after sixteen years?”

Wei Wuxian shakes his head, reeling with the images of a dying Lan Wangji. “No.”

Jiang Cheng kicks water towards him. “Yo, you dumb-o, you are not obligated to feel what you don’t feel. You’re not obligated to push yourself onto him. You’re not obligated to rush yourself into realization. Be your dumb self for as long as you need. But you gotta realize that that you two ought to be selfish now.”

“Yeah, be as dumb as you need. Hanguang-Jun doesn’t seem to mind,” Huaisang whispers.

Jiang Cheng shakes his head when Wei Wuxian scoops up water to splash it at Huaisang’s direction. “When time comes you finally realize, remember what YunmengJiang Sect taught you: Attempt the impossible.”

Wei Wuxian doesn’t want to be sentimental, so he decides to be an asshole instead with their words. He swims near the banks, smiles up at them, and then swiftly grabs onto their ankles to pull them into the water. Both men splutter as they succumb into his mischief.

When they resurface, Huaisang is just whining, “Brother Wei!” running his hand on his face to remove the water clinging on it.

Jiang Cheng has given Zidian life, purple electricity flickering around his entire being. His face is crimson in anger as he grinds out, “Wei Wuxian!”

Laughing, he jumps out of the water, sprinting back into Cloud Recesses soaking wet.

Wei Wuxian opens his eyes, sleeping lightly because of an empty bed behind a divider, when something incredibly light taps onto the hand he has hanging from the edge of his bed in the jingshi. With Lan Wangji ordered to rest in the infirmary until tomorrow afternoon, he feels dread creeping up in him at the thought of someone else’s presence in their home.

He stills his breath, waiting for the intruder to show itself. Goosebumps rise on his arms when something slithers from his hand up to his shoulder. Swallowing, he turns his head, then promptly blinks in surprise.

It is a white paperman, standing upright beside his head. Its consciousness and owner doesn’t need guessing, Wei Wuxian knows who it is by the drawing of forehead ribbon and the hand-drawn blank expression on its face. He smiles at it. “Hello, Lan Zhan.”

The paperman gives him a cute, courteous bow before sitting on the pillow beside Wei Wuxian’s pillow. They remain like that, silent for few minutes, until the paperman leans the side of its head on Wei Wuxian’s. Relief seems to flood through both of them. Lan Wangji’s consciousness says one thing, and it already tells Wei Wuxian that his presence beside the Second Jade of Lan is as missed,

Wei Ying.

Finding sleep becomes easier later with the paperman sleeping on his chest.

Chapter Text

Due to the recent...Lan Xichen’s mind comes into an abrupt halt, unable to form the right word. He narrows his eyes. Due to the recent everything that happened, Lan Qiren ordered everyone – and he meant everyone—to separate for a week to learn their lesson and to get some peace for himself. Surprisingly, all parties have complied, or perhaps Lan Xichen has had selective blindness and deafness towards some favoured individuals. It has not been an unusual occurrence when it came to these particular set of people.

Wangji is currently supervising the lecture in the Lanshi, sitting behind the central desk and talking about wards and talismans. Jin Ling, Sizhui, Jingyi and Ouyang Zizhen all sat in a single line in the second to the right column, attentive enough but Xichen couldn’t help his smile when he sees Jingyi subtly roll a rolled paper under his table towards Jin Ling. The Young LanlingJin Sect leader looks over his shoulder briefly and has to hide under his sleeve to muffle his laughter.

Xichen lifts his gaze, unable to hold in his huff of laughter at seeing Wei Wuxian unashamedly draw the YunmengJiang and QingheNie Sect leaders sleeping with their heads leaning against each other, both drooling. Jiang Cheng has his arms crossed while Nie Huaisang’s hand is loosely clutching an open fan. After proudly exhibiting his drawing, Wei Wuxian discretely approaches Gen Lei, who has fallen asleep with his head leaning against the wall behind him. Grinning, he dips his brush for more ink and lightly draws on the MeilinGen Sect leader’s face. Gen Lei scrunches his nose with the brush’s texture, but remains in slumber after Wei Wuxian had finished his works.

Wangji has realized that no one’s paying attention to him anymore, and Xichen watches the play of emotions in his brother’s eyes when they land on Wei Wuxian at the back of the room. The light golden eyes go from surprised, to irritated, to fondly exasperated, letting out a sigh.

Xichen can only scoff in amusement when his brother clears his throat to gather his students’ attention back in front. All students turn to face him with lowered heads, but Wangji gestures for them to watch him. While Wei Wuxian is contemplating what to add on Gen Lei’s face, Wangji scribbles a floating talisman, its blue light illuminating his face, before sending the spell to life. It creates a blue translucent string around his wrist that attaches the other end around Wei Wuxian’s own wrist. Expressionless, Wangji pulls his hand back, sending Wei Wuxian toppling onto the floor. “Heavens above—“ The Yiling Patriarch startles, ending on his bottom. He looks at his wrist, then over his shoulder. “Lan Zhan!”

The students are now merrily watching the scene happening, laughing behind their sleeves.

“How dare you! I invented this talisman, and you go and use it against me?” Wei Wuxian grumbles, affronted, going to his feet. “I show you a trick once, and suddenly I’m the victim of it. To think the esteemed Hanguang-Jun will steep so low just to embarrass--Eeemp!” Wei Wuxian goes flying with the force of Wangji’s yanking.

Xichen snorts at seeing Wei Wuxian stumble onto the central desk, his face inches away from Wangji’s. The spell backfired towards his brother, and Zewu-Jun watches with delight the way the two men’s cheeks begin to flush.

“Hi? You didn’t have to do this to bring me closer, you know,” Wei Wuxian teases. The poor younger cultivators who are within hearing range all choke in embarrassment.

Wangji, with his ears pink, disperses the spell and points at Wei Wuxian’s seat. “Stop misbehaving.”

“Aww, Lan Zhan—Aiyah?“ Xichen blinks when a hand grabs the Yiling Patriarch’s arm, and then the man is being dragged away by Gen Lei back to the back of the room. Wei Wuxian begins to squirm away, wanting to go back in front but the MeilinGen Sect’s leader has unbelievable strength.

“Gen Lei, please be gentle with him,” Wangji calls out firmly, beginning to stand up to stop Gen Lei.

“I’m doing my best,” Gen Lei responds, exchanging glares with the Yiling Patriarch. Wangji hesitantly assents, and sits back down.

Xichen could only shake his head, seeing the petty war. Wei Wuxian has regained his footing after the incident in front of the Discipline Wall, treating Wangji the same way although, he seems to have come into a resolution of his own, and ensuring to show that he deserves his place by Wangji’s side. Gen Lei is also sensing the difference, fighting back with his typical maturity and politeness. Xichen doesn’t know how he maintains his patience with the height of undeniable requited love between the two oblivious cultivators, but Gen Lei is not backing down. For everyone’s sanity, he hopes they will come to a standstill soon enough.

It is after classes have been dismissed when the victims have found out about their funny circumstances. Wei Wuxian’s only warning for the inevitable is Jiang Cheng shouting his name so loudly even those outside Cloud Recesses heard him. At Lan Wangji’s quizzical look, he cheekily grins. “I displayed my drawing of them asleep in front of the Lanshi.”

They are sitting in the gardens, merely enjoying the quiet idle time before dinner. Lan Wangji is seated in the middle of the blossomed flowers, strumming a peaceful song on his guqin. Gen Lei is beside him, watching the flow of his fingers against the strings with sparkling eyes. Looking at them like this, the latter seems younger despite it being the opposite.

He hears the unmistakeable crackle of lightning, and he’s on his feet, frantically searching for a hiding place. The GusuLan Sect’s Older Jade of Lan’s white robes flutter with the wind, and he comes to a decision, sprinting towards Lan Xichen. “Zewu-Jun!” He shrieks when Jiang Cheng appears in the hallway, glaring at him.

Zewu-Jun has no time to react, gasping when Wei Wuxian jumps under his outer robes, hiding underneath. When Lan Xichen moves to side to side in order to avoid Jiang Cheng’s furious Zidian, Wei Wuxian moves alongside him, crouched underneath the pristine white robes. “Young Master Wei, please come out. This is embarrassing.” Wei Wuxian doesn’t see him from his hiding place, but he does sound embarrassed. “Wangji, you’ll break your guqin’s string. Calm down. Young Master Wei, please come out. I am begging you. Wangji’s guqin is on the line.”

What? Wei Wuxian finally peeks out from under Lan Xichen’s robes, seeing Lan Wangji’s cold glare towards their direction. It feels more dangerous than any weapon created in the world. “Ah. Lan Zhan, don’t worry, Jiang Cheng won’t actually kill me—yaah!” Zidian almost takes his face away. Knowing he couldn’t return under Zewu-Jun’s robes, he crawls away. “Jiang Cheng, please don’t kill me!”

Nie Huaisang is in the middle of the clearning, lifting Lan Wangji’s spread out robes on the ground. “Here, here, Brother Wei!” He ushers.

Lan Wangji frowns. “What—“

Wei Wuxian doesn’t care for Huaisang’s motives. Moving by instinct, he follows Huaisang’s suggestion and crawls under Lan Wangji’s spread-out robes, finding solace with the darkness beneath such heavy clothes. “Waah! Lan Zhan, such heavy robes! How can you fight with these on?”

A hand from the outer world finds his head and smacks it through the fabrics. “Wei Ying, get out. Now.”

“Yeah, Wei Wuxian, get out. Now,” Jiang Cheng’s furious voice commands. Zidian is still emiting dangerous amount of lightning, enough for it to be visible underneath all the clothes.

“No,” Wei Wuxian objects, crawling even deeper into the robes.

“Wei Ying.”

“I will come out if Jiang Cheng promised not to be angry anymore,” He bargains, enjoying himself. Lan Wangji is on meditation pose, spreading the ends of his robes on the ground around him. Only his legs covered by his trousers are visible underneath. “Lan Zhan, how many layers are you wearing?”

“Enough to suffocate you,” Lan Wangji retorts. “Go out.”

“After he put that art in display, throwing my dignity into the drain – I am not letting him off the hook that easily,” Jiang Cheng warns, huffing a breath in rage.

“Can we all calm ourselves?” Gen Lei murmurs from where he sat beside Lan Wangji. He sounds amused. “The drawing is, I would admit, not bad. It’s nothing to worry about. Your dignity is still intact, Sect Leader Jiang, I assure you.”

Nie Huaisang’s voice carries through, “Young Master Gen, have you seen your face?” After Gen Lei answers negative, he adds, “Here.”

A sound of a pair of feet stomp on the ground. “Young Master Wei!” Gen Lei shouts in outrage. “Ugh. Lan Wangji, how did you look at me all this time without choking from my horrendous appearance?”

Wei Wuxian snorts with Lan Wangji’s neutral response, “You look like Uncle.”

“Lan Wangji!” The Meilin’s Sect Leader gasps. “Three months into my courtship and you’ve learned how to make fun of me.”

“At least, you have an idea how you would look like when you grow older,” Huaisang comments. “However, it is a very disturbing image when I imagine you with Hanguang-Jun.” He lets out an audible shiver.

“Sect Leader Nie, I could only endure so much shame,” Gen Lei whispers, his voice muffled by something – probably his hands. “Lan Wangji, stay put. I will just remove this before they become permanent. Young Master Wei, could you please come out of Lan Wangji’s robes?”

“No!” He grunts, then crawls until he sees the light. With his neck below hidden still in Lan Wangji’s clothes, he sticks his tongue out at Gen Lei. “You’re just envious I get to do what you’re probably dreaming of doing for a while – getting into Lan Zhan’s cloth—“ He gets cut off when Lan Wangji shoves his face back inside with his body.

“You—“ Gen Lei begins, but then comes a young, joyous laughter from a distance.

“What is Senior Wei doing in there?” He hears Jingyi wonder aloud. “Isn’t that too literal to the phrase: keep it in your pants or something along that line? I mean—umf!“ His words are muffled by a hand, possibly Sizhui’s.

Jin Ling asks with innocent curiosity, “What is it? And is it Wei Wuxi—hmmff!”

Sizhui’s voice reaches from where he is, awkwardly saying, “Please excuse us.”

“Ah, Cousin Lei looks like Grand Master Lan!” An unfamiliar’s young cultivator’s voice declares, guffawing.

Gen Lei’s presence has suddenly disappeared, running towards the direction of the young lad. “Come back here, you! I’ll use you as firewood when I catch you.”

It almost sounds like Jiang Cheng with Jin Ling, and Mingjue with Huaisang. He comments from under the robes, “Apparently, Young Master Gen is a normal person who also gets pestered and irritated by his younger brother – or in his case, cousin.”

“Wei Ying.” Lan Wangji is adorably looking under his own spread-out robes for Wei Wuxian. His golden eyes glimmering intensely due to the dimness in Wei Wuxian’s hiding spot.

Grinning, he crawls back out with his head the only thing visible to the outside world. “Hi.”

“Mn.”

“Can I stay here?”

“I’m not a blanket.”

Wei Wuxian hums, mulling his options. “Would you rather have me lay on your lap?”

Lan Wangji blinks at him, then his ears begin to burn. He chuckles when the Second Jade of Lan huffs and ignores him. Wei Wuxian believes he has won, and enjoys his place underneath all of the layers of Lan Wangji’s clothes, using them as a makeshift blanket from the weather. Tilting his head, he finds Huaisang conversing with some of the students loitering around. Zewu-Jun and Jiang Cheng are comparing swords – literal ones. Gen Lei is nowhere in sight. Two of their adorable junior disciples are being dragged away by Sizhui.

“Lan Zhan,” He whispers.

“Mn.”

“I’m sorry.”

“For what?” Lan Wangji asks, and when Wei Wuxian looks up at him he knows that the Second Jade of Lan is not playing dumb nor is he stupid enough not to know what Wei Wuxian is apologizing about. “There’s nothing to apologize for.”

This time he’s the one who responds with, “Mn.” He watches Lan Wangji pluck the strings of his guqin, the vibrations creating a tune. It sounds incredibly soft despite the deep keys he’s chosen to play. Unabashed, the Yiling Patriarch watches the sun illuminating Lan Wangji, his white robes making him look like an angel, and perhaps he is. “Lan Zhan.”

“Mn.”

“I think,” He starts, smiling. “changes are not so bad after all.”

That earns him a stare filled with understanding. He doesn’t deserve it, but he is accepting it nonetheless.

Wei Wuxian shuts his eyes, content. “Lan Zhan.”

The response is instant, “I’m here.”

“Play for me?”

Lan Wangji doesn’t hesitate, strumming his fingers against his guqin’s strings – playing a song Wei Wuxian recognizes even in death.

With a cloth bag folded neatly, something precious tucked inside, Gen Lei begins his search for Lan Wangji. With the riots brought by villagers who were still under his father’s power, and the changes he was trying to instill in Meilin, his fourth courtship gift has been delayed for way too long. Despite his arrival in Cloud Recesses a fortnight ago, the gift is completed last night. When it is Hanguang-Jun one is courting, looking for the wrapping of the present would be such a quest.

Upon searching for almost an hour, Gen Lei is running out of places to look for Lan Wangji. He decides to look venture beyond the places he has typically gone through. There are still a couple of hours before curfew but most people have gone inside their homes. He has been through the hanshi before. From inside it, he hears Lan Xichen’s xiao playing a calming melody. As silently as possible, he strides pass it towards the jingshi, where Lan Wangji resides. He has been visiting Cloud Recesses for over three months, courting Second Jade of Lan, yet he has never even seen the man’s home.

Just as he’s about to cross the archway, he hears voices from the porch of the home. Without reason, he halts and hides himself from the bushes surrounding the archway. With the gaps in between the leaves, he could see two figures on the porch of a considerably huge home for its typically single occupant. It takes his eyes to adjust, but once he sees, he sees.

He knows he shouldn’t. He knows he should leave. He knows it might hurt. Yet, he stays. He stays and watches Wei Wuxian plop himself on the ground on the foot of the stairs, a white furry rabbit resting on his head. Lan Wangji is lounging on the staircase, another bunny sleeping on his lap. A wooden box is perched on the railings, on the opened lid two translucent rabbits are chasing each other around, and its letting out the melody he has already heard in their boat ride to Caiyi Town. His silver butterflies are flying around the two individuals, ocassionally revolving around Lan Wangji’s head. Some of the butterflies seemed to have befriended the translucent bunnies.

Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are not even talking, merely resting with each other’s presence. They are in their inner robes, relaxed with no worries in the world. Lan Wangji lets a butterfly land on his palm, stroking it tenderly. Gen Lei’s heart hurts seeing such beauty gracing the mortal world. When he catches a glimpse of Wei Wuxian’s expression, his breath stutters with the open admiration in those gray eyes. One looks and longs when the other isn’t looking. They wish for each other when since long ago, they have been each other’s. Love truly could blind some people from the truth.

Gen Lei knows. He knew before he proposed. He knows while watching them pine for each other. He will always know while giving his hardest and best. For Lan Wangji. For the smile I have received in a handful times. For the kindness buried in those golden eyes. For just a single chance.

Standing up, he scoffs at himself, standing up. He has taken several steps away from the jingshi, somewhere in between the Zewu-Jun and Hanguang-Jun’s homes when he feels a presence. Shexian unsheathes and the intruder emerges from the dark of the trees.

It is Lan Qiren.

Immediately, he sheathes Shexian and bows lowly, paling. “Grand Master Lan.”

“Young Master Gen,” The Elder greets back passively.

When he rises, he couldn’t seem to meet the older man’s gaze – guilt crawling up his spine. “I don’t intend on it. I just always end up coming at the wrong time.”

The Elder hums, folding his arms behind him. His expression is neutral. “Are you talking about tonight or…?” He trails off, raising an eyebrow.

Gen Lei feels his shoulders sagging at being seen through. He sighs and whispers, “I just always end up coming at the wrong time,” He repeats, weary. Lan Qiren doesn’t respond. “With all due respect, Grand Master Lan, what has brought you here?”

Lan Qiren clears his throat, gazing at the direction of his youngest nephew’s home. “I was about to invite Wangji for after-dinner tea. Then I remembered who his housemate is, so I decided against it. Afterwards, you came.”

Gen Lei didn’t miss the mild disgust in the elder’s tone when he said the word ‘housemate,’ so he musters the courage to ask, “Do you…dislike Wei Wuxian?”

The Elder Lan casts him a side-glance before sighing heavily, stroking his beard. “Wei Wuxian is an unpredictable whirlwind. He’s everything that GusuLan Sect must dislike and avoid, yet here he is – staying with my youngest nephew. He practices demonic cultivation, and my view of it as something evil will never change. But Wangji has been beseeched by him, and no matter what I do, they keep on coming back to each other. Wangji took up a mission that almost caused him his leg. Wangji entered a forbidden area in Cloud Recesses to study music sheets that could exorcise the after-effects of demonic cultivation. He kept on breaking rules after he met that Wei Wuxian, becoming the opposite of who I raised from infancy.

Wangji fought against our supposed-allies, and barricaded a demonic area – earning him a severe punishment. I thought he has learned his lesson and would return to the way he was after Wei Wuxian has been gone for sixteen years. Yet, here we are again.”

The Meilin’s Sect Leader zips his mouth shut, listening to words Lan Qiren seemed to have kept for so long.

“To answer your question, Young Master Gen: yes and no. Yes, I hate him for being the biggest mistake Wangji has ever done. I hate him for practicing demonic cultivation. I hate him for reminding Wangji of his mother. However…no, I don’t hate him, because he’s shown me who Wangji truly is beneath that shell he has created for him; because somehow, he makes Wangji happiest.”

The fourth courtship hidden in his sleeve suddenly feels like a deadweight, pulling him downwards.

Lan Qiren has his gaze focused forward when he continues, “Do not take it the wrong way, Young Master Gen. Wangji genuinely appreciates your efforts, and he enjoys your company. He has told me that you have become his friend. For Wangji, that’s a giant step. I must tell you of my gratitude for your patience with him.”

Gen Lei inclines his head. “No need, Grand Master Lan. I am not obligated. I am doing these out of my own desires.”

“Then, may I know – despite everything everyone is seeing except for the two of them—what makes you continue onwards with your courtship?” Lan Qiren asks, voicing the question Gen Lei knows a lot of people have in their mind. He’s not deaf and blind from their curiosity.

Closing his eyes, he thinks the question over. He has been resolute with his reason, but saying it out loud is another thing. “I have been a spare.”

Lan Qiren gives him silence.

“I have been a spare since I was born,” He admonishes. “I know what it is like to be a spare. I also know that people witnessing everything and seeing me desperately still hoping are also thinking that I seem to have accepted to be a spare.” He swallows. “But the thing is, I have known what it is to be the spare, and for most of my life my needs and desires have become buried dreams. When I became Meilin’s Sect Leader, I also learned of my value. I also learned that things I only dreamed of could be fulfilled: Meilin rising, my people thriving, and my father exiled for his misdeeds. They all seemed like impossible wishes years ago. I don’t know how my older brother would have been like if he got the throne. I still hold some guilt over not being able to protect him in the war. But I am representing Meilin now, and the only payment I could give to the people who raised me is my devotion. When I found out about my feelings towards your youngest nephew, it threw me into a spiral.

I am a Sect leader, I am a man, I am from a minor clan. I tried, for years, to trample it, but it kept on growing. I have been a spare all my life, what am I to lose for trying? I have been a spare all my life, isn’t it time I act on what I want? Being a cutsleeve, I would never gain a legitimate heir. If so, why not thrive to earn the heart that my own desires?”

“Are you saying that Wangji sees you as a spare?”

The accusation strikes him, causing him to burst, “No!” The Elder Lan seems surprised. “Lan Wangji never ever made me feel like a spare. Despite being helplessly entranced by Wei Wuxian, he has respected me and my feelings. Despite his attention mostly focused on Wei Wuxian, he has welcomed me with earnest. Despite being the Chief Cultivator, he treats me as if I had contributed a lot in the cultivation world by merely doing what I must to my people. Lan Wangji never gave me a reason to feel like a spare. He apologizes when I am left out. He shows gratitude and appreciation to my gifts and effort. He is merely torn in half: loving someone tremendously while also wanting to be loved back in the simplest of ways.”

Lan Qiren blinks, staring at him with genuine curiosity. “What of Wei Wuxian’s presence?”

“I will never be able to compare what we have to what he and Wei Wuxian has. They have a son! I had to go and punch a tree after I got that information, because what could possibly top that? What could possibly beat that? I had to compose myself for several hours, because it made me think of almost giving up. Yet, I am still here, hoping and trying. Several people wonder why Lan Wangji accepted my proposal when he has been pining after the Yiling Patriarch for more than sixteen years. Lan Wangji is a man of made of actions. Wei Wuxian is a man traumatized enough to be in so much denial. Telling another you love them seems easy, but it isn’t. Trust me. Someday, perhaps, they would have the courage to do so. For now, I can only keep on watching and trying.”

“Therefore, you are open to the possibility of my nephew’s refusal at the end of the six months?”

He keeps his head low when he whispers, “I—Lan Wangji and I actually talked about all of this in the infirmary when I visited him after he collapsed.”

“How did it go?”

Gen Lei keeps his gaze trained on Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang’s retreating figures. He knows that he has crossed a line for barricading the door, and that Lan Wangji will not be pleased when he found out about the words Gen Lie has thrown at Wei Wuxian. But he couldn’t stay still any longer. Finding out Lan Wangji has asked for punishment, and collapsed in the middle of it – Gen Lei felt helpless in a story of two cultivators who the universe had thrown together. He threw himself into it, and couldn’t seem to get out.

Lan Xichen turns to face him with a gentle smile. In front of him is a man who has wanted the best for the people he loves: one turned into their greatest enemy, one was murdered by the man he thought was his friend, and another is his younger brother he could only guide towards the right path. “Young Master Gen, Wangji has just awakened before I stepped out and would like to talk to you.”

His surprise turns to dread. “Not Wei Wuxian?”

Zewu-Jun responds with a lowered gaze, and Gen Lei already has an idea what the talk will be about. Lan Xichen turns towards the hallway, where the trio juniors are sneakily trying to have a glimpse of their Hanguang-Jun. After a bow in lieu of farewell, the Older Jade of Lan approaches the younger disciples.

Swallowing down his nervousness, he slides open the doors and steps inside. Lan Wangji is sitting upright on one of the beds, fixing his forehead ribbon with meticulous hands. Upon his entrance, Hanguang-Jun lowers his hands on his lap and inclines his head. Gen Lei nods in greeting, and sits himself on the visitor’s stool beside the bed.

Silence reigns in the room for several minutes, and he decides to break it, “You wanted to talk?” He prompts with a smile.

Lan Wangji looks at his direction, and purses his lips. “I apologize, Gen Lei. I can’t do this any longer.”

He has expected the words since he first entered Cloud Recesses, but that doesn’t make it easier to hear them. He stares at his lap because he couldn’t meet those golden eyes.

“I—Words are difficult, honestly,” Lan Wangji begins. “But with this, we’re hurting each other.”

“Just each other?” He asks, raising an eyebrow.

“And Wei Ying.”

“I accepted your courtship to selfishly move on. I know I deserve it. Several people have told me too.”

Gen Lei waits.

Lan Wangji’s hands clench on his sides, clutching the sheets tightly. “But, I am a stubborn fool, who will always, always look at and love him. You don’t deserve that. You deserve someone who will look at you wholeheartedly.”

“I wanted it to be you,” He murmurs, feeling his heart break.

“But it can’t be me,” Lan Wangji answers, his typically emotionless voice lowering with buried guilt.

Gen Lei fiddles with the string attached on his sash belt. “I can be the spare.”

His eyes widen when Lan Wangji bodily throws himself on the ground to stand in front of him. “You are not a spare,” the Second Jade of Lan states firmly, almost angry. “Did I make you feel as such?”

“No! I just—“ He pauses. “I have been used to it, and I thought that I am perfectly fine to be the spare if you truly couldn’t let go of your feelings towards Young Master Wei.”

“You are never a spare. I accepted your courtship because of the genuine desire and admiration you hold towards me, towards Lan Wangji. I thought I could set Wei Ying free, that I could give another person a chance, because I thought that all my life I have been beseeched by him without ever providing my heart an opportunity to look.”

He smiles up at the beautiful man he’s loved for so many years. “However?”

Lan Wangji pauses, jaw clenching when he couldn’t seem to find the words immediately. Gen Lei waits. “However,” He grinds out. “However, my heart already belongs to him. Every part of it. And I will not have it any other way.”

“That’s why I can’t even be spared an inch of it?” Gen Lei guesses.

Lan Wangji nods, and he seems so lost.

Gen Lei wants to tell him about the truth everyone sees except Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian. But he’s a side character and his purpose is different. They need to find the answer on their own and in their own time. “Wei Wuxian is lucky to have earned it.”

“He doesn’t,” Hanguang-Jun objects, frowning. He seems upset – at himself? “It is an impure heart. It has promised never to hurt and abandon Wei Ying again, yet it has done nothing but those.”

Gen Lei wonders what circumstances have not been known to many, how much of the true story have not been written, that made these two the way they are: achingly self-sacrifical towards each other. Was it the fact that they were both used to waiting and waiting, used to suppression, used to disregarding their own desires seeing them as selfishness?

The MeilinGen Sect Leader reaches for the man’s hanging sleeve, tugging it lightly. “Your honesty is admirable. I have fallen in love with you even more because of it.”

The other seems surprised. “Gen Lei—“

“—I understand, Lan Wangji. I truly do. But I’m not leaving,” He interrupts. “I am staying, and showering you with the same love and admiration. Not because I’m a persistent asshole, but because as you love Wei Wuxian, I love you.”

Lan Wangji seems uncertain how to accept the confession.

“I do. I do. You’re not obligated to accept it or reciprocate it. I made a vow to myself before that I will make the most out of my six months courting you. But, it doesn’t need to be courtship anymore – it’s just Gen Liang being Gen Liang towards the person he adores. I am giving you my love willingly until I run out of it, and can move on as well. Or perhaps, we’ll be stuck in this love triangle for eternity. Who truly knows?”

“I—“ The Second Jade of Lan grips for words.

“Look at it as a very affectionate friend who won’t leave you alone,” Gen Lei says, trying to ease the atmosphere in the room with his light tone, “who doesn’t want to, but supports your endeavor towards loving Wei Wuixan, while he showers you his own affections and occasionally argues with Young Master Wei just because of…all of this.”

“We’ll make one another miserable,” Lan Wangji sighs.

“Sect Leader Jiang had told me you and Wei Wuxian are good at that. I am just a spectator who meddles once in a while.”

Hanguang-Jun raises his gaze to meet his. It seems that a heavy weight has lifted off his shoulders. “I’m sorry. Thank you.”

Gen Lei strokes the sleeve he’s been granted access to hold onto. It was a dream once upon a time to even be in the same room as Lan Wangji. He smiles, letting a traitorous tear fall, “I’m sorry too. Thank you, Lan Wangji.”

Gen Lei takes a deep breath and keeps his gaze straight at Lan Qiren’s, willing himself not to be intimidated. “Grand Master Lan, I am no longer a spare. I believe Lan Wangji deserves the love and devotion I give him. I don’t know what the end results will be, but I am staying. I will keep on trying, wishing and dreaming. Because I used to think the things I have now were all merely dreams. Perhaps not exactly how I dreamed them, but they somehow still turned into reality.”

The Elder Lan stares at him for several moments, contemplating. After a while, he sighs, “If inquired before, I wouldn’t know whether to choose you or Wei Wuxian for Wangji. You’ve just made it even harder, Young Master Gen.” He turns with his hands on his back. “Come. It’s almost curfew, and I don’t want to punish you. You can try again tomorrow.”

That, he can do.

“Oh, Grand Master Lan, I forgot to tell you a crucial part of our conversation.”

Lan Qiren halts to address him. “What is it?”

That evening, eyes a little swollen, Gen Lei stands up from his seat to return to his room. Before stepping out of the room, he looks over his shoulder where Lan Wangji is meditating. “Oh, Lan Wangji.”

An eyelid cracks open.

“Don’t tell anyone yet that it’s not an official courtship anymore that I’m doing.”

A blink. “Why?”

Heart heavy, he puts on a grin, “Let’s just say it’s my way of helping the others to begrudgingly crack Wei Wuxian’s skull open.”

Lan Wangji frowns, unusually confused. “What?”

Gen Lei chuckles, and leaves him guessing.

A poor picture book might get burnt by his stare, but he can’t make himself care. Seated on the right of the Chief Cultivator while the man is giving out a lecture to dozens of younger cultivators should have been something he could boast about to Jiang Cheng and Huaisang –who are seated at the side—but his smugness is extinguished in the middle of Lan Wangji’s lesson.

Today’s lecture is about the different clans and the places they reign, the places they consider home, the places where their cultivation has been born and has grown. To aid his lecture, Lan Wangji retrieves a book from under his desk.

Wei Wuxian sucks in a sharp intake of breath. Hidden behind a large tree, he had witnessed Gen Lei offer his fourth courtship gift to Lan Wangji earlier. He wasn’t near enough to hear the MeilinGen Sect’s pleasantries and presentation about the present, but the Second Jade of Lan seemed pleased with it after one look inside. It is the exact same book.

Lan Wangji doesn’t introduce the book, or from whom it came from. The fact that it doesn’t exist in the Library Pavilion isn’t lost to the Lan cultivators though. Huaisang raises his eyebrows at Wei Wuxian, asking whether it came from him. He purses his lips and sighs. The QingheNie Sect leader comprehends and nods with a grimace. Wei Wuxian doesn’t fully understand yet why he agrees with Huaisang’s reaction, but he is.

Lan Wangji opens the book, and images float above the pages he is in. There are gasps of awe at seeing the magic come to life. There, floating above the pages, is an image of Cloud Recesses in color of sepia. The image is almost a feet wide and high, illustrating as much detail as possible with those parameters. It is almost three-dimension, showing almost at bird’s eye view of the place.

“You are familiar with Cloud Recesses of Gusu,” Lan Wangji utters and turns the page. It takes a while, but it slowly shows Qinghe next. “This is Qinghe under the Nie Clan. Stand up. Form a line. See it one by one.”

Excited, the students all clamber up to their feet, forming a queue without a fight, waiting for their turn. After they observe, they are instructed to go back to the last of the line.

When the reach the end of the queue, Lan Wangji would flip the book to show another clan’s territory. The book comprised of mostly the most well-known and well-travelled clans in the cultivation world. Besides, the book could only contain too much pages. The last page brings a tremor in Lan Wangji’s voice, “Yiling, Burial Mounds.”

Wei Wuxian goes out of reverie to whip up his head. Lan Wangji is already staring back at him through his eyelashes. He inclines his head, and the Yiling Patriarch stumbles to sit right beside Lan Wangji. Their heads right beside each other’s, they stare at the image of Burial Mounds before them – a place full of memories. A place where Wei Wuxian has experienced the saddest moments of his past lifetime. The place where he has last seen Lan Wangji before the Bloodbath in Nightless City occurred.

Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are unaware that none of the students has dared to approach, watching their teacher and his…

What the hell are they? Jingyi asks through his baffled expression.

As if I’d know. They share one braincell and it is malfunctioning, Jin Ling’s disdained huff seems to say.

They still don’t know? I’m going to tell them, Ouyang Zizhen’s wicked grin sends off.

Don’t you dare interfere! Jingyi’s stomp on his friend's foot growls back.

Sizhui has a patient smile, telling them, Give them time.

The other students, though, are exchanging glances with flushed cheeks. They keep on darting their eyes from the central desk, to the visitors sitting and watching on the side, and back at one another. Are we interrupting? Hello, we’re still here. Heavens, can we please go back to our seat?

From the sidelines, several adults are also suffering with the tension in the air that could be chopped with an axe. Jiang Cheng groans. “I’m going to kill them on their sleep to end this. I’ll twine their hands together. That’s my last gift before I murder them.”

Huaisang, with his face half-hidden, leans to the side where Gen Lei is sitting beside him, witnessing the scene with the face of dismay, “Did you give Hanguang-Jun that gift?”

MeilinGen’s Sect Leader nods, thumping his forehead on the table in front of him. “I should feel flattered he used it for his class. But, I am mostly regretting putting Burial Mounds in it.” He moans in disbelief. “It’s been five minutes, make them stop staring at each other like that. I might implode. I beg you.”

Taking pity, Huaisang slaps his closed fan on the table. “We still exist!” He declares. The Yiling Patriarch and Second Jade of Lan get out of their tranced stare-fuck and turn their heads in synchronization. They realize what happened at the same time, Wei Wuxian almost flying backwards towards his seat, chuckling weakly – awkwardly scratching his nose while gazing at the Second Jade of Lan. Lan Wangji’s ears turn incredibly crimson, his stare daring any of his students to comment. “Ten minutes break.”

The students do not need telling twice. They rise and quickly walk out of the room for some fresh air not filled with sexual tension.

Wei Wuxian puffs his cheeks when Gen Lei stands from his seat and situates himself on the empty seat on Lan Wangji’s left hand side. “Lan Wangji,” He greets with a gentle smile. Wei Wuxian looks at Huaisang and mimics Gen Lei’s greeting silently. The QingheNie Sect leader had to hide his laughter behind his sleeve.

Lan Wangji inclines his head. “Thank you, again, for the gift. It’s helpful.”

“I hope placing Burial Mounds in it hasn’t upset you.”

The Twin Jade of Lan sighs, shaking his head, “It hasn’t. It’s in the past now.” He casts the other a side-glance, “Meilin seems wonderful.”

Pleased with the compliment of his birth place, Gen Lei’s smile widens. “It is? Thank you. Its door will always welcome you, whenever you would like to visit.”

Lan Wangji nods, and Wei Wuxian doesn’t like that answer or the mental image of Lan Wangji departing to Meilin so he tries to scoot closer, and receives a glare from Gen Lei at his attempt. “Lan Zhan, Young Master Gen is bullying me!” He whines, pointing at the man.

“You glared at my gift first,” Gen Lei protests, eyes widening with the accusation. “I saw you.”

“I did not.”

“Yes, you did.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

Their argument breaks off by Lan Wangji’s silencing spell. Wei Wuxian isn’t easily defeated, though, protesting even with his mouth shut.

The Second Jade of Lan stares at him silently for several moments, waiting for him to surrender, but he doesn’t. He continues on rambling insistently, willing himself to not feel intimidated when Lan Wangji stands up. The students begin to arrive, taking their seats and wondering what they missed. Wei Wuxian has no warning for what happens next, freezing when Lan Wangji picks him up effortlessly, tucking him under his arm flawlessly.

Suddenly, they are walking, and Wei Wuxian is seated on the seat Gen Lei vacated beside Nie Huaisang. Lan Wangji gives him a stern look and commands, “Now, behave.” He turns and returns to his seat as if he just didn’t make Wei Wuxian question several more things about himself.

The Yiling Patriarch just realized how strong Lan Wangji truly is. He also just realized that there is something appealing to Lan Wangji’s angry and irritated expression. Lastly, since when does it excite me to be picked up?

The students watch with their jaws hanging as their Second Jade of Lan returns behind his desk, turns to Gen Lei –who is torn between laughing and crying—to say, “Someday, you must teach me how you made the book.” Then he turns towards his students and says, “Page 12.”

Jiang Cheng looks like he is a second away from gagging. Huaisang fans himself, heaving a sigh in exasperation with the turn of events. “It seems it isn’t only Brother Wei who is oblivious to his charming powers towards the other.”

Lan Xichen, who has been silent the whole time, “Tell me about it.” He closes his eyes and tilts his head upwards, “Mother, Father, give me strength.”

It is one of the most interesting (and embarrassing) days in this year’s GusuLan Sect lecture.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian’s gaze involuntarily lifts from the book in his hand when there are familiar footsteps he has memorized long ago from where the bath is located. Seconds after, Lan Wangji emerges wearing only his thin inner shirt and trousers, drying his hair with a towel. The dark locks glisten with the candle’s flickering light, making him look even more untouchable.

It makes him want to touch him more.

Lan Wangji sits on the floor behind the low table, still scrubbing his hair dry while occasionally flipping the notes in front of him – reading and grading the students’ submitted reports for last week’s lessons.

The man’s back is an amazing view, but he’s craving to meet those pair of light honey eyes. “Lan Zhan, look at me, look at me!” He calls out, swinging his legs back and forth.

Hanguang-Jun looks over his shoulder, blinking owlishly. He sounds sincere when he responds, “I always am.” The words make Wei Wuxian lose his train of thought for a moment.

He tries to seem unaffected, laughing with blood rushing to his face. “Damn, Hanguang-Jun, where did you learn that? Smooth. You can use it to the ladies or even Young Master Gen soon.” Please don’t.

The gentle look in Lan Wangji’s face turns sour, then Wei Wuxian is regarded with an incredulous look. His suggestion seems to have caused Lan Wangji so much pain.

Cackling, Wei Wuxian topples backwards onto his bed, keeps his eyes at his companion, and says, “I was kidding, I was kidding!” He blinks when he sees the comb Lan Wangji is picking up, remembering something. “Ah! Are you brushing your hair? Wait up.” He stumbles on his feet, retrieving a folded cloth under his bed. “Can I use this?”

Lan Wangji tilts his head at the foreign object.

Unfolding the cloth, there on his palm lays a comb. A new one.

“I got you a comb. Remember that comb-seller in Caiyi Town? I commissioned it from there, I just picked it up yesterday. Think of it as my token of gratitude for letting me stay with you. I just-- I always thought your plain silver one is way too rigid, and boring. You deserve something that deserves you,” He mumbles.

Lan Wangji accepts the gift with trepidation. His mouth forms a soft ‘Oh’ when he lifts against the light of their candle, eyes slightly widening with awe. It a minimalistic comb, made of pure jade with intricate but simple design at the top: branches of blooming red plum blossoms, the crimson flowers attached on the branches contrasting with the comb’s jade base. “It’s beautiful,” The Twin Jade of Lan murmurs, staring intently on the red plumb blossoms. “Thank you.”

“You deserve what deserves you,” He repeats, smiling, meaning each word of it. Flustered, he lays down on his bed again, staring up at the ceiling to calm his heart down.

After a while of silence, he hears a soft, “Wei Ying.” He immediately sits up and looks down at where Lan Wangji sits. The Second Jade of Lan is clutching his comb, contemplating. He gazes back at Wei Wuxian through his strikingly curved eyelashes. “Can you brush my hair for me?”

It is a small matter, something he does every single day. However, to comb the esteemed Hanguang-Jun’s hair – the man who rarely touches and lets himself touched by others, the man who is perpertually prim with his appearance, the man who doesn’t have a single lock of hair astray—is a huge thing to be offered with.

It is a gift in some way. Wei Wuxian hasn’t done anything to receive it. He just gave the man a comb, because he felt like it. Besides, aceepting that task isn’t going to help the growing suspicions he has about himself. Yet, upon seeing Lan Wangji’s dejected expression at his misunderstood silence, he reaches for the comb he has meticulously designed. It’s a light thing, made of the finest material the comb-seller could acquire with Wei Wuxian’s money, but incredibly heavy when its owner is the rarest exquisiteness in the cultivation world: Lan Wangji.

It’s a responsibility, and an honor. Wei Wuxian nods at Lan Wangji, making the man turn around. After smoothing some tangles with his fingers, he reaches for the heavy hair piece Lan Wangji hasn’t removed yet. It’s the miniature crown Gen Lei has gifted him with. Wei Wuxian gets permission to remove it – something that he begrudgingly, internally celebrates—and he places it behind the tea set in order to hide it from his sight. The forehead ribbon is gone, so he merely unties the knots keeping the half-bun up. Successful, he begins to comb Lan Wangji’s hair down, focusing at each layer with utmost care.

Lan Wangji is stiff underneath his fingers, the touch still foreign against his scalp. It might have been years since the man has had anyone comb or run a finger down his hair. A chill runs down the man’s spine when Wei Wuxian runs the comb on the center, going from the uppermost layer at the scalp to the last centimetre reaching the end of his spine. Wei Wuxian gentles his ministrations, and slowly, Lan Wangji relaxes.

When he’s done, he runs his fingers down the dark hair, finding for faults. He comes empty-handed. Finished, he passes the comb back to Lan Wangji –who accepts it like Wei Wuxian has handed a fragile piece of his own heart-- before slamming his forehead against Lan Wangji’s back. “You’ll ruin me, Lan Zhan,” He murmurs, loud enough for himself, but muffled by the other’s thick hair.

Lan Wangji will ruin him. Only Lan Wangji can ruin him. He will not have it any other way.

It still terrifies Wei Wuxian – how much Lan Wangji has become somewhat of a permanent piece in his life. It still terrifies him that after waking up and before going to sleep, his immediate thought is to see Lan Wangji. It still terrifies him what these changes in his perception of the Second Jade of Lan could bring into their lives. He’s still not sure what they entail and what they mean, but he’s taking it one day at a time.

For today’s lesson, they are in the archery area of Cloud Recesses with the students lined up, listening attentively while Lan Xichen guides them with the theory of shooting and the equipment involved. After an hour of theoretical analysis, Zewu-Jun goes to the centre of the field. He readies his bow, his posture perfect and body aligned accordingly. He retrieves an arrow and ensures the tip against the arrow rest. His grip tight enough, he pulls the string and locks on his target. After an adjustment in his angle, he takes a deep breath, and releases the arrow. With a gust of wind, the target trembles as the arrow pierces the centre circle.

This earns him a round of applause. With five targets several feet away from them, Zewu-Jun instructs the students to queue up, and try shooting one by one. They would begin with the outermost circle of the target, then proceeds until they could get to the centre or near it.

On the sideline, Wei Wuxian watches with mild interest, knowing full well he could shoot five arrows at each target while blindfolded. He did it once in his past lifetime, driven by pride and the need to prove himself.

Jiang Cheng casts him a cold glance, “What? Not flaunting your archery skills this time?”

He rolls his eyes, cradling his chin in his hand. “What will I gain by that?” He retorts, not pulling his eyes away from the archery field.

Jin Ling has come in front, and prepares himself for his shot. At closer look, he realizes that the teenager is using his late father’s set of bow and arrows. Not just his sword then, Jin Zixuan has ensured his son would receive everything he owned, or perhaps they were requests from Jin Ling – his parents’ belongings for his parents’ honor and memory. Jin Ling pulls the string and aims with precision, releasing the arrow with a snap of someone with expertise. The arrow goes neatly through the center, embedding itself on the soft wall behind it. The teenager smirks in triumph, lowering his arms.

At that moment, Wei Wuxian seemed to have seen Jin Zixuan overshadowing Jin Ling’s figure, warranting he hits the target like the late Jin Zixuan flawlessly did. “He has his father’s talent with archery,” He murmurs in awe while Jin Ling gets surrounded by his co-cultivators, congratulating him or asking for tips.

“You would have known if you stayed long enough to raise him,” Jiang Cheng grunts, eyes also on their nephew’s grinning face.

“He has his mother’s smile,” He adds, lips wobbling when he goes for a smile.

The YunmengJiang Sect Leader’s jaw clenches. Jiang Yanli and Jin Zixuan are still people they couldn’t converse about without hitting dead-ends and stepping into lands with explosions underneath. Two years isn’t enough to mend everything.

Wei Wuxian lowers his eyes on the ground, unable to keep looking at Jin Ling when he resembles their sister so much at that moment.

“Keep your eyes on him. He’s only studying here for six months, then he’ll begin his training to become LanlingJin Sect’s leader. He’s lost you for sixteen years already,” Jiang Cheng snaps.

“I can’t,” He admits. “He’s the combination of that peacock and shijie, and every time I look at him, I remember how much I failed their family.” His hands tremble on his sides.

“You—“ Jiang Cheng reaches for him, but his hand gets swatted away by Lan Wangji’s sheathed sword, the latter listening in quietly the whole time beside Wei Wuxian. Jiang Cheng looks from the sword in front of him to the man who wields it. He takes a deep breath to calm himself. “You are the Yiling Patriarch. Shijie and Jin Zixuan died because of you—“

“—Jiang Wangyin—“ Lan Wangji warns, voice icy.

Jiang Cheng ignores him. “They did. Nothing can change that. Jin Ling is orphaned because of you. We’ve established that. We’ve gone through that. There are times I still get angry at you and your face, your voice, your presence because you remind me so much of everything that happened. But I’ve also come to accept it, and the fact that this is our present. Shijie, Jin Zixuan, my parents could never be revived. I am the only legitimate foundation of the Jiang Clan, because you left me! Even you left me!”

Several students have started to stare at them, but Lan Xichen ushers their attention back towards their targets – giving them some sense of privacy.

“Jin Ling has been in so much confusion when you’ve turned up after sixteen years, because you’re the complete opposite of everything he envisioned Wei Wuxian was supposed to be. He was supposed to hate you, but couldn’t. Now, you’re granted permission to do your duty as his uncle. Are you running away from that as well?” His adoptive brother growls lowly, Zidian crackling around his wrist. “Look at him, and keep looking. Because that child is the only memory we have left of his parents. To compensate for our failures, the least we could do is raise him right, and give him the care he would have received from Shijie and Jin Zixuan.”

Wei Wuxian lifts his gaze to look back at the field, his heart clenching at Jin Ling’s happy face while Sizhui, Jingyi and Zizhen shower him with compliments and questions. He has his mother’s smile, and father’s proud aura. He finds himself smiling. “Jin Rulan. I remember giving him his name.”

“We’re both his uncles now. Can you do that with me?” Jiang Cheng hisses, settling on his seat. “Put down your sword, Lan Wangji, stop babying him.”

It will not be easy, but he’s up to it. He sighs, and nods. “Yeah, Jiang Cheng, I think I can.” Wei Wuxian turns, and chuckles as he places his hands over Lan Wangji to ease Bichen back in its sheathe. Lan Wangji still has a thunderous expression as he glares at Jiang Cheng. “Calm down, Lan Zhan. We’re fine.”

The Second Jade of Lan exhales, sheathes his sword, and turns his attention back towards the archery field.

Wei Wuxian watches in amusement as Lan Xichen manages to rope the onlookers into the archery field. With an arrow and bow of his own, he approaches their trio junior disciples, who are encouraging Zizhen to give it another try. “Yo! Need any help?” He greets when they turn their heads at his arrival.

Jin Ling huffs, turning away, “As I would need any advice from you with archery.”

“Unless it’s fighting back with brute force, right?” He retorts, smirking with an eyebrow raised. He hasn’t forgotten the way he manuevered Jin Ling in the Carp Tower when Jin Chan had come to interrogate and argue with him. Jin Ling seemed so proud of victory then, Wei Wuxian wished he found friends soon.

Jin Ling clearly remembers the same memory, and kicks Wei Wuxian’s leg in irritation. “Shut up.”

Not one to back down, he kicks his nephew’s shin in revenge. Jin Ling yelps and glares up at him as he shields his shin from any more counterattacks. “You and violence!” Wei Wuxian chides, sulking while rubbing his leg.

Sizhui chuckles and reaches over to fix the ends of Wei Wuxian’s robes that had flipped over. “Senior Wei, Zizhen is having some troubles with shooting arrows, can you give us some tips?”

Ouyang Zizhen eagerly approaches him, excited to learn. With more actions than words, he rotates around the student to guide him on his stance, and on the technique to skilfully release an arrow and hit a target whatever the distance is. He demonstrates one shot, and makes the younger cultivator follow his lead.

It takes Zizhen several shots before he finally manages to reach one of the circles. Determined, he reaches for the twelfth arrow and aims. Wei Wuxian witnesses with pride as the shot pierces the centre of the target with finesse. Zizhen gapes at his success for several seconds before jumping in delight, cheeks flushed with happiness. “Thank you, Senior Wei!” He gasps before taking several steps forward to stare where his latest arrow ended up.

Sizhui and Jingyi move in synchronization, going beside Zizhen to celebrate and congratulate him. Jin Ling, feeling left out, steps forward to join them when his foot catches a scattered, used arrow on the floor and slips. He lets out a surprise gasp, which makes the two younger Lan cultivators to turn around. Jin Ling, desperate, extends his hands, each hand catching a tail of Jingyi and Sizhui’s forehead ribbons.

Wei Wuxian can do nothing but wince as his nephew, son, and his son’s brat best friend end up on the floor. Then the whole archery field comes to abrupt halt when the moment Jingyi rises, a sharp scream tears out his throat, startling everyone in the vicinity.

On the ground, Jin Ling is rubbing his back, both hands clutching onto two recognizeable, white forehead ribbons with cloud designs scattered on them. Jingyi is pointing at the LanlingJin Sect leader with outrage, a second away from crying. Sizhui’s face is red, but he is holding it in to calm his best friend beside him. Jingyi yanks his forehead ribbon from Jin Ling’s hand, and sprints away from the archery field. Jin Ling, confused, looks around and decides to run after his devastated friend. Lan Xichen chuckles softly and trails after the two teenagers. Jiang Cheng, who had seen the whole thing play ou, turns red in shame and runs after the three.

Sizhui stays, picks up his discarded ribbon on the floor and fixes it with learned precision. He turns towards their spectators and bows, “I apologize for the commotion.”

With his polite dismissal, everyone returns to their business without preamble. Wei Wuxian, on the other hand, is burning with curiosity. Twirling an arrow around his fingers, he places a hand on his hip. “Sizhui.”

The kid, dusting off his white robes, regards him with a smile, “Yes, Senior Wei?”

“What’s up with Jingyi’s reaction? Why is it such a big deal that someone else touched your forehead ribbon?” He squints, digging his mind for a specific memory. “I think Lan Zhan has told me the reason before, but I must have been drunk out of mind, because I can’t remember it.”

His proclaimed son stares at him for several seconds before blood rushes to his neck upwards, flustered. It’s an amusing image to witness. Suddenly, Sizhui couldn’t meet his eyes. “I, uh—“

Wei Wuxian never gets the answer because a frantic voice is screaming out, “Look out, Brother Wei!” And he’s turning around, an arrow going right at him. He could dodge, but it would hit Sizhui. His eyes widen when another arrow impales it right in the middle, splitting the first arrow into half vertically, both projectiles end on the ground, harming no one in the end.

Lan Wangji is standing on the opposite side of the field, stance prepared to release another arrow if deemed necessary. It is a sight to behold, the tip of his arrow glistening, adding flair to Lan Wangji’s already breath taking beauty: his white robes, forehead ribbon, and dark locks billowing with the wind. His golden eyes fierce as they lock on their target.

Wei Wuxian shakes his head, sighing in dismay, “He’s so goddamn beautiful, I don’t think I can take it.”

“I was about to apologize, but if you’re busy, I could go,” Huaisang grumbles behind him, an eyebrow raised – judging him.

“Ay, Huaisang! How could you? You almost killed me.”

“It’s not my fault! Well, that shot was. But everything started because Zewu-Jun paired me with Sect Leader Gen, and we’re apparently the worst Sect Leaders when it comes to archery!” Huaisang protests, sulking. He shrieks when an arrow almost strikes his right foot. “Sect Leader Gen, put down that bow right now!”

Gen Lei raises his hands defensively, dropping the bow on the ground. Since it still has a projectile attached to it, the arrow releases and it catches the end of Huaisang’s robes. “That was not intentional!” He looks over his shoulder, where Lan Wangji is fast approaching their crowd, slightly bemused. “Please tell me you didn’t see me being a failure.”

“I will not lie, Gen Lei,” The Second Jade of Lan answers, deflecting in the best way possible. Gen Lei groans in his hands. However, Huaisang is not to be ignored – he pulls out the arrow from his robes and points the tip towards the MeilinGen Sect Leader with a warning in his eyes.

Wei Wuxian grabs Lan Wangji’s arm and yanks him to his side the same moment Nie Huaisang springs to his feet to chase after Gen Lei and stab the arrow at the latter’s robes in revenge.

Sizhui is grinning at the scene unfolding in front of them. Lan Wangji is expressionless as usual. Content and genuinely happy, the Yiling Patriarch twines his right hand to Sizhui’s left, and his left to Lan Wangji’s right, squeezing them and wanting to share that happiness with the two most important people in his life.

Before Wangji could follow after Wei Wuxian to the direction of the jingshi, Lan Xichen’s hand extends to wrap around his brother’s wrist. Wangji stops and turns to face him, expressionless. “Brother?”

Wei Wuxian has stopped as well, tilting his head as he waits for Lan Wangji to finish their conversation. Xichen smiles at the Yiling Patriarch, and inclines his head politely. “Young Master Wei, I need to discuss an important matter to Wangji. It will not take too long. I’ll return him to you in five minutes.”

His brother and Wei Wuxian stare at each other for several heart beats, a silent conversation going on between them. Xichen looks away, unwilling to intrude. Wei Wuxian nods, and waves a hand cheerily, “See you tomorrow, Zewu-Jun!” He then departs, whistling.

Once they both ensured no one is listening in, Xichen grasps his brother’s wrists and squeezes them gently. Calmly, “Wangji, what is happening?”

It is a mimicry of an eventful evening that happened months ago. It felt far away when he looked back on it. So many things seem to have occurred in between that he can’t grasp specifically how long it’s been.

Wangji understands the meaning of his question. And Xichen tries to stay strong as he waits for another silent breakdown, for another night that he would see his brother cry, for another night he would feel hopeless in the sight of two hearts unable to reach each other.

His breath stutters to a stop when his brother meets his gaze straight on, and gives him one of the softest smiles he’s ever shown. “Do not fret, brother. I am alright,” Wangji begins. “I—I chose to move onwards. It doesn’t matter if Wei Ying doesn’t reciprocate. He will nevertheless receive my affection.”

It feels like a breath of fresh air. He feels bad for another person, though, so he whispers, “What of Young Master Gen?”

Wangji shakes his head, looking somewhat reproached. “We’ve talked. He’s been understanding. Everything is fine between us.”

Xichen couldn’t help himself, twining his hands with his brother’s calloused ones. It’s been years since they’ve had such casual, unrestricting contact. He’s missed being a big brother to Wangji. “I support you in your endeavours. Someday, may your hearts meet in between.”

“Thank you, brother. For everything.”

“I am your brother, Wangji. I will burn the world for you.”

A pause. Then a blank, “Please don’t.”

A startled laugh erupts from him. It’s such a rare occurrence to see his brother’s sarcastic side. “Alright, I won’t.”

With good nights, he watches Wangji walk towards the jingshi. His heart soars with the happiness he sees in his brother’s face before he departed. Xichen closes the door behind him with a self-depreciating sigh. I am way too invested about these two’s story.

Ever since Wei Wuxian has gifted the jade comb to Lan Wangji, it has become a routine that before bed time, the Yiling Patriarch combs Lan Wangji’s hair. It has been a welcomed addition to his night, and he does it happily each evening behind the jingshi’s closed door. The privilege is almost like a secret between the two of them.

On this particular night, Lan Wangji is reading and responding to correspondences while Wei Wuxian is humming, his hand busy with brushing the former’s hair to perfection befitting Hanguang-Jun. After Lan Wangji signs his signature on the bottom of a letter, he takes a deep breath and sets the brush down. Wei Wuxian notices the tenseness in his shoulders. “Lan Zhan?”

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji responds.

He blinks and resumes brushing the man’s hair before the tangles dry since that will make removing them a hassle. “Yes?” He asks.

His hands still involuntarily upon the other’s response, “I am planning to give Gen Lei a Cloud Recesses’ token of passage.”

Wei Wuxian couldn’t find the strength to feel unaffected and continue combing Lan Wangji’s hair. His hands remain frozen against his will. “I—that’s good? I mean, that’s a big thing! Uh…” He trails off and surrenders, closing his mouth. His heart is thundering in his chest, and he hates the feeling. He hates the thought of seeing a jade token of passage swinging from Gen Lei’s sash belt – for it to come from Lan Wangji himself? It leaves a bitter taste in Wei Wuxian’s mouth.

Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder, concerned. When he sees the Yiling Patriarch’s sour expression, the man turns around, so that they are face to face, kneeling in front of each other. “Wei Ying,” He says. “I am asking your permission.”

“What?”

“I am asking your permission whether I could give Gen Lei a token passage.”

He blinks, frowning. “Why? This is your clan’s token of passage. What does it have to do with me?”

“You and Gen Lei don’t really get along. If it upsets you, I won’t give him one,” Lan Wangji answers, retrieving a common jade token of passage from the chest area of his folded outer robes on the bed.

It is distinctively different from Wei Wuxian’s own token -- his has been carved to look like a lotus. He recalls how Lan Wangji specifically asked for it to be customized to his likin when he has decided to stay in Cloud Recesses. He finds himself smiling, looking at the simple one on Hanguang-Jun’s palm. The difference of his to Gen Lei’s somehow balms the hurt he’s feeling. “The decision is up to you, Lan Zhan. He is your suitor, and I am your friend.”

Lan Wangji shakes his head profusely. “Gen Lei is my friend.”

“Okay?”

Lan Wangji inhales, and grinds out, “Gen Lei is—just my friend.”

They stare at each other for a minute, Wei Wuxian’s brain dissecting and absorbing the meaning in Lan Wangji’s words. How could a single word change what he meant? He gasps when realization sinks in. “He’s just a friend?” He repeats, finding himself hopeful for something. Something. Something!

“Mn.”

“But he’s still courting you?”

Lan Wangji considers the questions and hesitantly nods.

Wei Wuxian bites his lips then persists, “But he’s truly just a friend.”

This time, Lan Wangji’s nod is instant and certain.

“Why are you asking for my permission then?”

“Gen Lei is my friend. Wei Ying is my soulmate.”

Lan Wangji could have killed him that moment, and he would either go up in the Heavens or stay on Earth happily. Blood gushes up to his face, rendering him speechless. He lifts his hands and has to hide his face.

Through the gaps of his fingers, he sees the other tilt his head in worry. “Wei Ying?”

Wei Wuxian gasps out, “Okay! Okay, I allow you to give him that token. Just—stop being fucking adorable.” He removes his hands from his face to squish Lan Wangji’s between them. He receives a glare, but it makes him want to squeeze the other’s cheeks. “You are my soulmate too. Now, turn around so I can brush your hair.”

Ears red, Lan Wangji complies silently, and returns to his responding to correspondence. Wei Wuxian forces his hands not to shake as they tend to Lan Wangji’s hair.

Wei Wuxian wants to call out ‘Lil Apple to kick Bai, but Lan Wangji is fond of both animals so he discards the idea. Therefore, he is stuck watching the Second Jade of Lan approach Gen Lei’s horse and scratch it under its chin. It’s unfair how good he is with animals. Is there anything he’s not good at? Oh, right, drinking.

Nie Huaisang, Jiang Cheng and Gen Lei are departing back to their respective Sects, unable to run away from their responsibilities any longer. Jin Ling hides behind Wei Wuxian at one of Jiang Cheng’s threats, pouting at the face of his purple uncle. “You dare hide behind Wei Wuxian! Come out here, you brat. I’m not done.”

Jin Ling burrows himself deeper behind the Yiling Patriarch. “You’re going to scold me about not breaking the GusuLan Sect rules again. No.”

“You—“

Wei Wuxian laughs. “This just proves he’s truly our nephew, Jiang Cheng. Don’t worry, he won’t cause as much trouble with Hanguang-Jun here.” He pats the head behind him.

Jiang Cheng rolls his eyes. “As if I could trust that considering how bad he is at denying you anything.”

Adult that he is, he merely sticks his tongue out at his adoptive brother as a response.

Gen Lei returns from where his men are, and heaves himself up effortlessly onto his horse’s back, the tails of his sunset robes flapping to form a halo around him. Wei Wuxian would have gaped more, but he is annoyed at the way Gen Lei stares adoringly at Lan Wangji right after, the latter still busy giving attention to Bai. “One day, Bai will run away from Meilin to live here with you.”

“He is well-trained, he will not leave your side,” Lan Wangji responds confidently, stepping back.

MeilinGen’s Sect Leader sighs as he stares at the archway leading back in Cloud Recesses. Afterwards, he longingly gazes down at Lan Wangji. Wei Wuxian doesn’t miss the hint of sadness in the man’s copper eyes. He wonders where it comes from. “The past weeks have been eventful. I am leaving, yet again, with a heavy heart.” He licks his lips and takes a deep breath, shutting his eyelids with more force than necessary. “Damn it, I don’t want to go,” He mumbles with a raspy chuckle.

Lan Wangji steps forward. “Gen Lei.” Wei Wuxian looks around him, and realizes that he isn’t the only one confused with the scene in front of them. The six months isn’t up yet, why does Gen Lei sound like he’s saying goodbye?

“Save it, Lan Wangji. My words still stand,” Gen Lei assures, opening his eyes and smiling gently. “Don’t look like that. I’m fine. We’re fine. I promise that my words still stand. You have nothing to worry about.”

What is happening? Hi, can you please explain what the hell is going on?

The Second Jade of Lan exhales, and nods. He blinks and begins digging in his chest pocket, and Wei Wuxian watches silently as Lan Wangji retrieves a jade token of passage into Cloud Recesses, the thing resting on his palms. He steps forward and offers the token to Gen Lei. “Cloud Recesses’ door will always open and welcome you.”

The people around them have varying reactions, Wei Wuxian couldn’t contain his laughter at their horrified gasps. Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen’s eyes have widened significantly, the latter looking slightly panicked. Sizhui and Jingyi are exchanging glances, confused and somewhat terrified. Huaisang has his eyebrows raised, face half hidden with his opened fan – seemingly scandalised. Jiang Cheng is staring at the display with disdain. Jin Ling is just immensely curious, peering through Wei Wuxian’s shoulder.

Gen Lei looks at the jade token, seeming unable to pick it up. His sad eyes brighten with appreciation. “Thank you for this honour. You never fail to astound me with your kindness, Lan Wangji. You’re making it even harder to go.”

In sync, all heads turn to look at him. Wei Wuxian blinks at the question their eyes and shrugs non-commitally. “What?” He asks back at their insistent stares. “I knew about it. I’m alright with it. I have one too, you know.” He looks straight ahead and sees Gen Lei staring at Lan Wangji’s gift with utter admiration, and something in him pushes him to move. He steps forward, picks up the jade token and offers it up at Gen Lei offhandedly. “Here you go.”

The MeilinGen Sect Leader is unimpressed with his attitude, accepting the jade with care and cradling it against his chest like a child. Wei Wuxian stands stubbornly beside Lan Wangji, arms crossed in defiance. Gen Lei rolls his eyes at him. “You’re so petty,” He grumbles. “Take care of Lan Wangji while I’m gone, will you?”

He warrants that no response. He plans to do so without being told to.

Gen Lei has expected much, facing the others in his departure party. He inclines his head. “Thank you for the hospitality. I, now, must return to my people. I shall be back soon enough, I beg your pardon in advance.” He gazes back at Lan Wangji. “Good luck, Lan Wangji. I will see you soon.”

“Thank you, Gen Lei. For everything. Have a safe travel.”

With that, he signals his men to start their journey. His back turned on them, he raises a hand and waves. In a short while, they turn to small figures from a distance.

Jiang Cheng huffs and rolls his shoulder. “Now that’s over, we shall depart as well.” He glares at where Jin Ling stands in between the two Lan junior cultivators. “Jin Ling, don’t you dare embarrass our Sects while you’re here or I’ll break your legs.”

Jin Ling begrudgingly agrees with a sulky, “Yes, Uncle.”

Nie Huaisang waves merrily, “Good bye, everyone~” He bids. “Bye-bye, Brother We—eep.” He lowers his head.

Wei Wuxian raises an eyebrow and glances to his side, Lan Wangji’s cold gaze is settled on Huaisang for some reason. “Lan Zhan?” The Second Jade of Lan looks back at him for few seconds before turning away, slightly upset. Ignoring him, he waves for Huaisang to not worry about it.

“Good luck, Brother Wei,” The QingheNie Sect Leader finishes, chuckling weakly.

Jiang Cheng readies Sandu for their departure. In order to reach Yunmeng early, he and his men have decided to use their sword as transportation. Before he boards it, he addresses Wei Wuxian with an expression near to constipated. “Wei Wuxian,” He starts and grits his teeth. “I—Well--Yunmeng—Lotus Pier’s door is always open for you.”

You’re always welcome home.

Lan Wangji has gone stiff beside him, still expressionless. Wei Wuxian understands after moments of gauzing what could have gotten that sort of reaction from his companion. Suddenly, he grasps that he has had the same reaction when Lan Wangji was offered to visit Meilin by Gen Lei. It was dread hidden beneath apathy.

Jiang Cheng’s words are heartwarning and unexpected, and he appreciates the gesture. He smiles at his adoptive brother, whispering a sincere, “Thank you, Jiang Cheng,” he turns his head to stare at Lan Wangji’s light honey eyes –the man stares right back at him, eyes a deep well of emotions Wei Wuxian is beginning to understand-- then returns his attention to Jiang Cheng, “but I am home.”

A week later, Wei Wuxian is woken up by a surprise – breakfast in the jingshi. When he rises to sit down on the low table for their first meal of the day, a foreign smell is enveloping their home.

His heart almost comes to a stop when Lan Wangji sits across him, and opens the pot in the middle of the table. There sits inside is lotus roots and rib soup Jiang Yanli used to make. He’s rendered speechless, staring as Lan Wangji neatly ladles the soup into two separate bowls, laying them on the table in front of each occupant. “Eat,” is the first word out of Lan Wangji’s mouth.

Hands trembling, he picks up the bowl and scoops up a spoonful. The taste is almost the same as his shijie’s, and it brings so many memories his lips begin to wobble. He swallows the need to cry, and finishes the soup in one go. Instantly, Lan Wangji serves him seconds. “Lan Zhan,” He murmurs, disbelieving. “Lan Zhan, what…”

“I asked Jiang Cheng for the recipe. It almost ended in a duel.”

He could imagine, but that isn’t what he wanted to ask. It is, “Why?”

Lan Wangji places his bowl back on the table, the chopsticks silent as he sets them down too. “You told him that Cloud Recesses is now your home. I know nothing will beat Lotus Pier. I know you still miss it. This is the best I can do.”

This is the best I can do.

Lan Zhan, this is the best.

Wei Wuxian crawls until he’s kneeling beside Lan Wangji. “Hug.”

The man freezes. “What?”

But he doesn’t hear any it, he flings himself into Lan Wangji’s arms, encircling his arms around the man’s middle and pulling him close. Close, closer and the closests they could possibly be. He leans his head against the crook of Hanguang-Jun’s neck, closes his eyes and breathes the sandalwood scent clinging to the Second Jade of Lan. It takes a gruelling minute before Lan Wangji lifts and wraps his own arms around Wei Wuxian, surrendering to the embrace.

They have gone through a war, and a government conspiracy. Yet, this is the first time they ever hugged. After everything that they experienced, this is the closest they truly have been.

He squeezes his arms, wanting the man even closer even if they are almost skin to skin.

Wei Wuxian shuts his eyes, feeling warm all over. Shijie, is it possible for a person to become your home?

Chapter Text

Snow is falling from the skies, making Cloud Recesses even colder and ethereal than normal. He has never lived in the place long enough to experience it during the winter season. Sliding open the doors of the jingshi, he is greeted by white covering the whole porch and front yard. Grinning, he throws himself onto the snow and lies in the middle of it, breathing in the crispy scent of ice.

Lan Wangji’s face appears in front of him, leaning forward to meet his gaze. “Wei Ying. It’s cold.”

His teeth clatter betrays him when he responds stubbornly, “It’s not.” He flails his arms and legs sideways. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I’m creating a snow angel!” He declares in glee.

“You seem very happy,” Lan Wangji observes with a slight smile, helping Wei Wuxian to his feet when he’s finished with his snow artwork.

He shakes the snow off of his hair like a dog, his companion turning his head away not to be sprayed with frost. “Yunmeng doesn’t get a lot of snow during winter. It’s a rare occurrence, and not this much.” He takes a deep breath, and rubs his hands together when shivers run down his entire being. Throwing himself into the snow while wearing his inner robes is probably one of his dumbest idea. He blinks when a thick coat envelopes him with warmth. Lan Wangji’s hands are gentle as he eases the coat around Wei Wuxian’s shoulders. The Yiling Patriarch’s cheeks flare up with the attention. “Thank you.”

“No need,” Lan Wangji says. “Come. You need thicker clothes. Then, breakfast.”

Wei Wuxian nods, and clutches a hand on Lan Wangji’s sleeve as he follows after the man back into their home. He leans his nose against the coat around him, and the sandalwood scent makes him forget the coldness clinging to his body.

There’s a mischievous glint in Lan Xichen when he gestures for he and Lan Wangji to come closer. They obey, and pad over to where he is. Lan Wangji automatically nodding his acknowledgement. “Brother.”

Zewu-Jun smiles as he regards each of them with interest. “Wangji. Young Master Wei.” He extracts a letter from inside his sleeve, and hands it over. “This came for you two.”

Wei Wuxian accepts the letter and unfolds it. It turns out to be the title of the deed of their purchased lotus pond in Yunmeng. Along with it is a short letter from the previous owner, thanking them for purchasing the lake with such a generous payment, and for their promise to take good care of it. At the end of the deed are their names beside each other enlisted as the area’s new owners. Lan Wangji’s eyes glimmer with joy when their gazes meet after finishing reading the correspondence.

Lan Xichen clears his throat, catching their attention. “Congratulation on the purchase. I believe Wangji has no scheduled appointments or classes for the today and tomorrow. I made sure of it. You are free to visit it for the time being, if you would like.”

Wei Wuxian clutches onto Lan Wangji’s arm, giving the other his best pleading eyes. They typically worked to Jiang Yanli. Lan Wangji turns frozen for several moments before turning towards his amused brother, “How about Uncle?”

“Frankly, I believe he’d be glad to have you out of here for a while,” Zewu-Jun replies, biting his lips to stifle his laughter as Wei Wuxian persists with his puppy eyes.

“Please, Lan Zhan? You’ve been busy for weeks. You deserve the break!” The Yiling Patriarch persists, tugging on the man’s sleeves like a child.

It takes no more than half a minute for Lan Wangji to agree. “Alright. Pack up. We’ll leave as soon as we’re ready.” Lan Wangji inclines his head towards Lan Xichen, who is watching the whole thing with bright eyes. “Thank you, brother.”

“Have fun.”

Wei Wuxian is already pulling Lan Wangji towards the direction of the jingshi, unable to contain his excitement when he waves an arm at Zewu-Jun, “Thank you, Zewu-Jun! See you after a while.”

Lan Xichen waves back.

Their current predicament is transportation. ‘Lil Apple has always been irritable with the cold, so taking him from Cloud Recesses to Yunmeng is not adviseable. Suibian can also only hold him for so long with what he has accumulated for his golden core.

His good mood slowly diminishes. “Lan Zhan, what are we gonna do?” He whines, sitting on the snow-covered grass. “I really wanted to arrive before tomorrow afternoon. It’s the season for lotus seeds, too.”

Lan Wangji looks down at him.

He blinks up at the other, seeing an idea formulate behind Lan Wangji’s usually emotionless eyes. “What?”

“I can carry you.”

He tilts his head, and cocks an eyebrow. “For the whole trip?”

“Wei Ying. I’m Lan Wangji.”

Lan Wangji is merely stating a fact and the truth, but Wei Wuxian feels himself blush at how confident he sounded. Wei Wuxian is learning new things about himself every day, he isnt certain whether to celebrate them or have a panic attack. “That, you are,” He agrees, going to his feet. “Can you really get us through the whole trip while carrying me?”

“That actually makes it easier,” His companion answers after some hesitance. His ears are red.

“Why? Because it’ll be a single transport?”

He receives a blank stare, and then an exhausted sigh. “Sure,” The Second Jade of Lan says. It isn’t convincing. “Do you have everything?” At the Yiling Patriarch’s nod, Bichen unsheathes and lays itself on the ground, prepared for their travel.

It takes him several rotations around Lan Wangji to realize he doesn’t know how should be carried. The day is not going his way. “I—uh—could stay on your back, but that seems exhausting. And I might fall?”

Lan Wangji gives him an unhelpful blink.

“Well—there’s also me clinging on you from in front, but I could potentially block your view. That would be dangerous.”

Wei Wuxian sighs, lowering his head to think with forefinger and thumb pinching his chin in thought. He can only yelp when a strong arm goes under his knees and another supports his head, then he’s lifted off the ground and is held against Lan Wangji’s chest. “This works,” The Second Jade of Lan comments, effortlessly carrying him like a maiden in distress.

“Lan Zhan!” He exclaims, embarrassed.

“Down?” Lan Wangji asks, looking disappointed with the idea.

Wei Wuxian is powerless against those golden eyes. Besides, this is a fairly comfortable position for their long travel. No surprise Lan Wangji could make the most shameless person in the world embarrassed. Indestructible, indeed. Hiding his face in his hands, Wei Wuxian finally relents, nodding. “This works.”

Lan Wangji steps onto Bichen with him in his arms. “Ready?” At his assent, the sword ascends off the ground.

Looking over his shoulder, he finds them hundreds of feet above ground in few seconds. It is a terrifying view after travelling on foot for years, and after his fall into the Burial Mounds after Wen Chao threw him off. He briefly shrieks and clings an arm around Lan Wangji. “Do not dare drop me, Lan Zhan, or I will haunt you for eternity.”

“I will never drop Wei Ying.” It sounds like a promise.

He grins, staring at Lan Wangji. “And if I fell nonetheless?”

Lan Wangji lowers his eyes to stare back at him. His gaze is soft, Wei Wuxian’s heart forgets how to pump blood in his veins for a minute. “I will catch you. Every time.”

Butterflies are twirling around inside his stomach, and he can’t digest them. So he accepts their existence, and tentatively wraps his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck. “You are too good, Lan Zhan. You are too good to Wei Ying,” He murmurs on the man’s neck, unbelievably fond.

“Mn.”

He closes his eyes, and enjoys the ride, listening to the steady beat of a heart beneath this man’s chest. Alive, alive, alive. Wei Wuxian can almost touch it. Wei Wuxian wonders if he can touch it. They are alive and their hearts are so close to each other. Anything seems possible.

They arrive in Yunmeng at the eve of the night, landing on an almost empty street. After looking around the place he used to roam carelessly as his younger self, he realizes that there are things that would remain unchanged. Including this.

He jumps down from Lan Wangji’s arms and stretch his limbs, looking around. “Looks like most people have gone home. Let’s continue our expedition tomorrow. Come on, let’s look for an inn to stay in!” He yanks Lan Wangji’s wrist and pulls them to the nearest inn. Due to the popularity of Yunmeng during this time of the year, it takes them several tries to find a place with a vacant room.

Once situated inside, they order for dinner and dine while Wei Wuxian chatter about the thing he has done when he was younger, and still living in Yunmeng. Lan Wangji seemed amused by several of his tales, commenting with his typical hums.

Wei Wuxian is fine with it. Lan Wangji’s presence is loud enough.

There is only one bed in the room and there aren’t any spare beddings left because most visitors have requested for extras due to the lack of beds despite the influx of guests in each room. So they are left with one bed. They both stare at it, apprehensive.

Lan Wangji gestures towards the floor near the walls. “I can sleep sitting up.”

“Lan Zhan, I can sleep on the roof. What’s your point?” He grumbles, letting his hair loose.

“There is only a single bed.”

He laughs. “Yes, I am fully aware.”

Lan Wangji pointedly looks back at it. “You can take it.”

That stops his movements. “No, you take it. You already carried me all the way here. I’m not taking the bed from you.”

“Your body will be sore because of your position in our trip. I’m not accepting the bed,” Lan Wangji retorts, shaking his head. “You take it.”

He frowns, pouting. This stubborn, stubborn man. “You take it.”

That earns him an unimpressed look. “Wei Ying, you take it.”

“No way. You take it.”

“You—“

Wei Wuxian flails his arms on the air, and huffs in exasperation. “Stop! We’re both stubborn. We can do this all night and you know it. It’s a bed, we’ve slept together countless times before. Why are we having such trouble? Let’s sleep on it together.”

Lan Wangji steps back involuntarily, affronted with the suggestion. “Us? Together? On one bed?” He clarifies, paling. He shakes his head, turning away. “It is unnecessary, you sleep on it.”

Already seated on the bed and ready for slumber, Wei Wuxian pulls Lan Wangji beside him. Surprised, the latter ends on his bottom on the mattress. “Do I disgust you that much?”

“No!”

“Then let’s sleep together.” The implications of his words took quite a while before they registered. Stuttering, he waves his hands as his cheeks begin to flush. “N-Not like that! I am shameless, but not that shameless.” Yet. The Second Jade of Lan has his gaze lowered, gulping. “We will both sleep on it,” Wei Wuxian insists, and when Lan Wangji opens his mouth, he raises an index finger, “Uh-uh, no more objections.”

Lan Wangji is defeated, laying himself on top of the sheets –his position prepared for a coffin, watching in silence as Wei Wuxian snuffs out the candle illuminating the room. With the Second Jade of Lan taking up most of the bed, the Yiling Patriarch realizes how unconvential their positions would be if he forced himself on half of it. “Damn it, we’ve been through hell and back,” He grunts and crawls on top of Lan Wangji.

The body beneath his goes unbelievably frozen, and for a moment, he is afraid he has crossed a line. Until Lan Wangji speaks, “Are you certain?”

His deep voice resonates around the room, the vibrations can be felt through the thin fabrics of their inner clothes. Wei Wuxian feels like his heart might burst with how fast it’s beating. He adjusts his positions until his head is on Lan Wangji’s chest, and he finds out how erratic the other’s heart also is. Their two hearts sound like rabbits hopping around in excitement. It’s relieving to know that it isn’t only him who is affected by their situation. It feels like hope.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Zhan whispers. “Are you certain?”

Wei Wuxian has never been more certain. He nuzzles his nose on where Lan Wangji has been branded the QishanWen symbol. “Certain,” He assures. “You?”

“Mn.”

Lan Wangji’s heart finds a steady rhythm after a minute, relaxing Wei Wuxian’s own. His eyes fall shut. “Sleep well, Lan Zhan,” He slurs.

A hand strokes his hair, lulling him to sleep. “See you tomorrow, Wei Ying.”

The world seems brighter when his eyes open to greet it. Lan Wangji has managed to detach himself from Wei Wuxian without stirring the latter. The GusuLan Sect schedule has been ingrained in the man, so he can’t fault him for that. He rolls over onto his back and hides himself under the blanket, flushing when he feels deep comfort from the sandalwood scent clinging on the blanket and bedsheets.

“Wei Ying.”

That voice. That freaking voice!

He sneaks out of his cave, and finds Lan Wangji entering their room with a tray of their breakfast – already prim and proper in the sky blue attire Wei Wuxian likes on him. Everything is incredibly domestic, Wei Wuxian didn’t want to return to Cloud Recesses after this short vacation. Lan Wangji sets the tray on the table and begins to arrange them neatly.

When Wei Wuxian makes no move to get up even after being given a pointed look, the Second Jade of Lan sighs in resignation. “Come on. Breakfast will turn cold,” He coaxes from where he sits. He extends a hand. “Up. It’s almost nine.”

The Yiling Patriarch stares at the hand offered to him, and throws logic out the nearest window. This is their little world. This is their day. This is theirs, and theirs alone. “Can I hold your hand?” He murmurs, hiding half of his face under the blanket, suddenly embarrassed.

Lan Wangji blinks, the tips of his own ears turning crimson. It is an endearing sight, and Wei Wuxian loves being the cause of it. “Why?”

Wei Wuxian pouts. “I’m cold.” It’s not entirely a lie.

A hand finds his, intertwining them. “Now?” The Second Jade of Lan asks worriedly, hand tightly wrapped around Wei Wuxian’s. Lan Wangji’s hand is huge and warm against his, calloused due to the brutality of everything they have faced, yet absolutely gentle when tending to those they care about. Their hands fit right around each other, they seem meant to be.

Wei Wuxian gazes at their tangled hands, and finds himself smiling foolishly. He giggles and hops to his feet, sitting beside Lan Wangji to keep their hands together between them. “Not anymore,” He sing-songs, picking up his chopsticks to begin breakfast.

Lan Wangji, the genius that he seems to be, manages to eat neatly with his left hand while the right hand is occupied.

They stay in the position long after breakfast, not letting go.

They rent a small boat on the dock, and is given access after they have shown evidence that this particular lake is indeed theirs. The owners of the rented boats stare at the both of them with shock for several moments before hastily preparing their ride.

Lan Wangji steps onto one end with natural flawlessness, his otherworldly beauty contrasting against the simple wooden boat he is on. He turns once he’s found his balance, and offers a hand towards where Wei Wuxian stands on the dock. Wordlessly, he accepts the help and hops onto the boat, settling on the other end to keep the boat balanced.

“Are you certain you do not need someone to row for you?” The owner asks, hesitantly handing over a pair of oars.

Wei Wuxian takes them, and passes one over at Lan Wangji. The Second Jade of Lan flips the tails of his robes and sits on his end, testing the oar and waters with natural talent. Wei Wuxian has to forcibly take his eyes away from the man. “We are certain. We want to see our lake ourselves, with our own effort.”

The man smiles, scratching the back of his neck. “The previous owner is right with selling the lake to you, good lads. You seem to truly want to take care of it. There were offers before you, and we all hesitated because they looked like they were in it for the business they could conduct in the lake.”

Lan Wangji is already staring faraway, at the lotus seed pods visible from a distance. “It is a place of memories. We will not let anything harm it,” The Yiling Patriarch promises. “Ready, Lan Zhan?” He receives a nod. “Thank you. We will be back before mid-afternoon!”

With that, they begin rowing towards the center of the lake where the lotus seed pods are and where they rested before heading to Yunping City. It takes them half an hour, and they both let out a sigh once they have arrived. Thankfully, the sun is not fully out, shielded by clouds, illuminating the place enough. Due to the winter season, it is colder than usual.

Wei Wuxian blinks when a pod appears in front of his face. He lifts his gaze and finds Lan Wangji silently offering one at him. He snorts and accepts it. “Excited, are we?”

“No lotus seeds in Cloud Recesses,” Lan Wangji responds, plucking another one out. He pushes a lotus seed out, and plops it in his mouth. A phantom of a smile appears in his lips. “Tasty.”  He plucks another seed out and poises it towards the Yiling Patriarch. “Catch.” He then flings the seed at his direction.

Automatically, Wei Wuxian opens his mouth and moves a little to catch the seed into his mouth. Lan Wangji doesn’t seem surprised at his success. As payback, Wei Wuxian pulls a lotus seed out of his own pod and throws it back at his companion. Lan Wangji gracefully catches it in between his lips and sucks it in into his mouth. The sight makes Wei Wuxian avert his gaze.

After four lotus seed pods, Lan Wangji has resigned himself to taking the seeds out for Wei Wuxian’s consumption. He seems content with the duty, so the latter lets him be, eating each seed offered to him.

Once they have finished a dozen, they lounge on their boat. Wei Wuxian removes his boots and flings the lower half of his body out of the boat to drip his feet into the cold waters. Giggling, he swings them back and forth making the boat rock. “We should have done this sooner, Lan Zhan,” He breathes in content. “I should have taken you into an adventure before we settled in Cloud Recesses. We could have seen the world together before returning unannounced.” He laughs. “Imagine Grand Master Lan’s face if you suddenly got abducted by me!”

“It would not be kidnapping,” Lan Wangji objects, setlling beside him, full body inside the boat. Leaning over, he scoops up water, but lets it trickle down his the gaps of his fingers.

He turns slowly to regard his companion. “It wouldn’t?”

“No.”

“You,” He pauses, looking for the right word, “want to?”

“Mn. Whatever Wei Ying does,” Lan Wangji says.

He frowns. “I thought you don’t,” He admits. “I was afraid to ask.”

“So was I,” The Second Jade of Lan confesses, scooping another handful of water, watching it disappear with earnest.

Wei Wuxian’s feet have stopped moving, and he twists his upper half to stare at the other. “I was afraid of the changes it could bring. Not anymore,” He immediately adds, then leans closer to see Lan Wangji’s expression. “But why were you afraid to ask?”

Lan Wangji looks at him through his eyelashes. “I asked you before. You refused.”

Before? When? Wei Wuxian sinks into his memory and searches for that particular moment in the past two years. When he turns up with nothing, he digs into his past lifetime for anything he had refused from Lan Wangji, for a request he had denied. He almost falls out of the boat from a memory in Yiling Supervisory Office – the one time he called Lan Zhan’s courtesy name with such ferocity. He chokes up, “Lan Zhan, that was a lifetime ago.”

“Mn.”

Wei Wuxian picks up Lan Wangji’s free hand, and squeezes it between his own. “It’s alright to ask again and again. I would never refuse again.” At the relief palpable on his companion’s body language, he almost melts. “Lan Zhan, oh, Lan Zhan, you hold every memory so dearly, don’t you?”

Lan Wangji doesn’t respond, gazing back at him with open honesty. Wei Wuxian now understands how the other seems to remember every instance they have together. He has to catch up to that.

Unable to resist anymore, Wei Wuxian stands up and holds onto the ends of his robes. Lan Wangji gives him a quizzical look. He grins at his companion, and then abruptly throws himself into the waters. “Wei Ying--!”

After sinking himself underwater to soak fully, he resurfaces with a huff of air. Lan Wangji is leaning half of his body out, worry transforming to exasperation once he has emerged. He chuckles at the chiding look he earns, and swims close to the side of the boat, looking up at the Second Jade of Lan. A shiver runs down his spine from the coldness of the lake, but he pays it no mind. “What’s the point of going here if we weren’t going for a swim?”

Lan Wangji stubbornly seats himself inside the boat.

He pouts, running a wet hand down his face. “Aw, you fuddy-duddy, come on!” He encourages, rocking the boat with his own hands. His companion sways with the boat effortlessly. “Swim with me?”

“Wei Ying, there will be nowhere to change.”

“Just this once, forget about proper decorum and discipline. It’s just us here,” He pleas, pouting.

“I would dip my feet into the lake, that’s the only promise I can make,” Lan Wangji offers, resolute.

Wei Wuxian isn’t satisfied, swimming backwards with a puckered out lower lip. “You’re no fun!” He whines, glaring up at Lan Wangji. Then, an idea comes into his mind, and he swims back towards the boat. “Can’t I really make you agree? Please?”

Lan Wangji sighs, and leans over to gaze at him with a stern expression. “Trust me. I want to say yes. But changing will be—Wei Ying!”

Hands wrap on the excess fabrics in front of Lan Wangji, and Wei Wuxian yanks with all the force he could exert. Already unbalanced while leaning over, the Second Jade of Lan staggers and topples forward. He ends up into the lake as their boat flips over with him, ending up on its butt miraculously. Wei Wuxian grabs the oars before they sink and throws them inside their boat, triumphant.

Lan Wangji resurfaces to gasp for air. He runs his hands down his face, and pants. Opening his eyes, he twists towards Wei Wuxian and rolls his eyes at their predicament. “Are you satisfied?” At Wei Wuxian’s grin, he merely shakes his head with a slight smile. “You’ve gotten me wet, congratulations,” He teases mildly and reaches for the edge of the boat to heave himself back.

But Wei Wuxian throws himself onto his companion’s back, making them sprawl back underwater. “No!” He shrieks when Lan Wangji emerges and tries to go for the boat again. “No, no, no!” He shrieks, laughing, while he swims away, an arm wrapped around Lan Wangji’s waist to pull him with him.

Stubborn, Lan Wangji twists his body until they are chest to chest and grasps Wei Wuxian’s arms. “Yes,” He says and swims forward with unrelenting strength. Wei Wuxian knows Lan Wangji’s feat is for show, so he giggles and wraps his legs around the man’s waist to push them both under the lake once more. “Oomph!”

His heart is swelling with the bliss when they resurface back together and Lan Wangji has wrapped his arms around Wei Wuxian’s middle, keeping him in place. The golden eyes glisten with mirth as Lan Wangji pants for breath, soaking from head to bottom. His forehead ribbon is askew and his hair piece has turned sideways from their roughhousing, but he doesn’t have a single care. This is the Lan Zhan only Wei Wuxian is allowed to see. This is Lan Zhan beneath the shell he has created around himself.

Wei Wuxian is overflowing with happiness and adoration when he wraps his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck and pulls him closer, leaning their foreheads against each other. His laughter ceases into a wide smile as Lan Wangji shuts his eyes and accepts the embrace, both of them floating aimlessly on the lake they own.

Their hands are intertwined together as they roam around Lotus Pier dock, satisfied despite the silence that reigns between them. They did return the boat before mid-afternoon, went back to their inn to change their clothes, and decided to spend the rest of the day roaming around town.

The skies are welcoming the night when they stop visiting stall after stall, and pad over a booth selling familiar meat buns. Wei Wuxian orders a pair, pulls his companion towards an empty bench under the line of trees near the empty pier, and hands over a steaming one towards Lan Wangji, who stares at it with confusion for several moments. “Oh! You don’t eat meat. I forgot—“

“I do. One can’t be picky when out on night hunts,” Lan Wangji interrupts. He does it a lot now. Wie Wuxian doesn’t mind. He’s opening up more. “I haven’t had meat buns before.”

Wei Wuxian chuckles at the embarrassment in his companion’s face, and splits his own in half. He shows the contents to Lan Wangji. “This is its’ contents. It’s sweet with mild spice to add flavour. It is one of my favorites growing up.” He takes a bite of one of the halves, the taste melting on his tongue.

Lan Wangji nods and follows suit, taking a neat bite. He chews thoughtfully, and hums. “It is good,” He says, swallowing and eating another bite. “I can see why Wei Ying likes it,” He adds, and a trail of sauce drips down the corner of his lips. It is an endearing sight when he looks pristine in his white robes.

Reaching over, Wei Wuxian wipes it off with his thumb. The gesture reminds him of the first time he has done it, reminds him of the confusion it brought, of his cowardice as he ran away, of the distance it almost settled between the two of them afterwards. It felt like far away nightmare. He pulls away hastily, and explains, “S-Sauce!”

They finish their own meat buns in a leisurely pace. Time doesn’t seem to exist in this beautiful, empty space. Time doesn’t seem to exist when he is standing next to Lan Wangji, gazing at the waters as the wind blows the end of their robes against each other, forming a yin and yang.

“I never thought I might ever come back here without the threat of being thrown out,” Wei Wuxian breathes, lowering his gaze. “I didn’t even think I would ever come back from the dead.”

He can feel Lan Wangji’s eyes on him.

“I used to be a dirty child living in the streets, left alone by parents who died night hunting. I ran away from dogs who I have to fight against for food. Uncle Jiang arrived one day and saved me from starvation, and the Jiang Clan welcomed me as their own. Growing up, I was always an outcast no matter how hard shijie and Jiang Cheng tried to make me feel otherwise. I subconsciously trampled Jiang Cheng and his confidence, growing into a proud boy who can’t keep his mouth shut.” His smile is self-depreciating when he resumes, “After I had lost my golden core and begun to practice demonic cultivation, I begun to feel loneliness crawling into my entire being. When tragedies came one after another, and it was all because of me, I didn’t even think twice going to that cliff. I was so desperate to finish everything off.”

Wei Wuxian lifts his gaze, and turns his head towards Lan Wangji – the other’s golden eyes warm. He finds it easy to continue, “You clung into my hand, but I was the one who let go. Yet, after all these years, you still feel guilty for my death. Know this, Lan Zhan,” He steps and cradles the man’s face in his hands. “Everything that happened was because of my own decisions. You are not responsible for my death. You have been nothing but good. You are so good. You’re as important to me as I am to you. This is our second chance. Don’t hurt yourself with unnecessary guilt anymore, alright?”

Lan Wangji sighs, and inclines his head. “Mn.”

Releasing his companion’s face, he turns to face the tree behind them. Despite the season, it’s still blooming healthy, green leaves proudly, its branches swaying with the wind. The chime of the branches rustling against one another sounds like a zither, calming him. “I used to climb every single tree in Yunmeng. But this one – this one is a special one.”

“Why?”

“It made me fall in love with Lotus Pier when I gazed up at my home from the highest branch,” Wei Wuxian answers, already reaching for the nearest branch. With ease, he climbs branch after another until he’s sitting on the top one, his feet dangling underneath him.

The scenery is breath taking from where he sits, the entirety of Lotus Pier is almost visible despite the darkness. He could see the silhouettes of the houses, the stalls that lined up the streets, the boats rocking with the gentle waves. The occasional lampposts illuminate the ground beneath them, looking like a pathway towards the Heavens. Cloud Recesses is a home up on the mountains. Lotus Pier is a home surrounded by the waters. Wei Wuxian’s two homes.

He lowers his gaze to the ground where his third home stands. Lan Wangji is staring up at him, a god amongst people. A mere human beneath those white robes. An honest man behind his emotionless eyes.

Wei Wuxian doesn’t know what he’s thinking, he probably isn’t thinking at all. His heart bursting with emotions and incapacitating him from rational thoughts. With his heart in his throat, tears in his eyes and a smile on his face, he wobbly stands on the branch he’s on. Then, he shuts his eyes, lets go and jumps down.

His eyes flutter open when a pair of strong arms shield him from the impact. Lan Wangji has caught him. Lan Wangji has caught him. Lan Wangji has caught him, cradling him against his chest, and is staring at him like he was the man who hung those stars up in the night skies.

Lan Wangji caught him. Like he promised yesterday.

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian whispers, his heart beating like he had ran miles and miles. He receives a soft ‘Mn,’ and it makes him smile even wider, happiness overflowing. His whole body feels warm, and he thinks he could conquer the world with his mere heart. His ear could pick up Lan Wangji’s own heart thundering beneath his layers of clothing. His heart slows down for a while and decides to follow the other’s heart’s rhythm, the two beats forming a melody like Chenqing and Wangji do naturally. “Lan Zhan,” He says again, because he can. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan,” He repeats, his eyes opening, his heart accepting, and his entire being finally understanding. Suddenly, he feels like crying.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji murmurs, his voice echoing in the world they created where only the two of them existed.

Wei Wuxian wraps his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck and nuzzles his face against the man’s chest. “Lan Zhan,” He breathes, his heart incredibly light. It has taken him so long. He thinks he’s crying.

Shijie, I am in love with Lan Zhan.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian is in a confusing spiral of panic and acceptance when they arrive back in Cloud Recesses the next day. He doesn’t know how he had manages to go through the rest of the previous night (especially sleeping on top of Lan Wangji, the man he loves) and their trip back to Gusu (with him carried maiden-style while he tries not to fucking swoon) without alerting Lan Wangji of his predicament and internal battle.

Over a month away from the sixth month, Wei Wuxian spends the next whole damn week to evaluate his feelings towards Lan Wangji. The conclusion is that, indeed, he is in love with the esteemed Hanguang-Jun of the cultivation world.

It is a coincidence that he stumbles upon the truth. Lan Sizhui is preparing to go to bed, yet his tongue is craving for something sweet. When he lifts the lid of one of candy jars in their room, he finds it empty inside. He has forgotten he finished the last piece to keep himself awake last night to prepare for their exams this morning.

His taste buds unrelenting unless it tastes that honeyed candy, Sizhui begrudgingly puts on an outer robe and steps out of his room, barrely stirring his roommates: Jingyi and Jin Ling. It is not bed time yet, but his friends have stayed up late to study last night so he isn’t surprised that slumber came early to them tonight. Smiling, he quietly slides the doors close and pads over the kitchen, which is usually empty by this time.

An unexpected surprise welcomes him. In front of the stove, attached to the hip are his parents. Hanguang-Jun is transferring the contents of a pot into a smaller container – possibly for their dinner in the jingshi. Wei Wuxian moves around him, gathering cutleries onto the tray. To reach a particularly far ladle, Wei Wuxian almost slips because of his socked-clad feet. Lan Wangji’s reaction is instinctive, wrapping an arm around the Yiling Patriarch’s waist to keep him steady.

Sizhui feels himself flush when his two fathers’ gazes linger at each other, clear adoration evident on both of their faces. He should probably go back later. Just as he’s about to leave, the ends of his sleeves catch the locks outside and it sounds incredibly loud when it bumps onto the wooden door. His parents looks over their shoulders at him, both exposed yet unashamed.

The junior hastily bows. “Hanguang-Jun, Senior Wei. Good evening.” His cheeks are flaring up. “I—I just wanted—uh—candy.”

Lan Wangji detaches himself from Wei Wuxian, and retrieves several pieces of candy from the jar in a corner of the pantry. He pads over and places them on Sizhui’s palms. “Sleep well, Sizhui,” His father bids with a slight smile and steps out of the kitchen.

His eyes are still watching Hanguang-Jun’s retreating figure when from inside the kitchen, he hears his Dad utter, “Heavens, he made me my favourite soup again! Is it possible for me to fall in love with him any more, A-Yuan?” The words come out in a helpless sigh.

Sizhui has ten seconds to process what he hears, twisting around to gape at his oblivious Dad. Wei Wuxian doesn’t notice his shock though, giving him a pat on the head and following after Lan Wangji towards the jingshi.

Uh, excuse me, but—what?!

Jiang Cheng knows he is bound for another long trip to Cloud Recesses when a letter arrives at his doorstep, especially considering that the sender is his idiot adopted brother, Wei Wuxian.

Preparing himself from the worst, he retrieves the letter and unfolds it once he is seated on his seat in his office. The water he just sipped shoots out of his nose when his eyes land on the first sentence – first sentence-- of his adopted brother’s chicken scratch.

Jiang Cheng!!!

I just found out I am in love with Lan Zhan. We had a romantic short vacation over a week ago and we had lots of fun, and then he caught me when I jumped from a tree! I am in love with him! I can’t--

I don’t know what to do with this information. I am useless in this field. The only thing I’m good at is flirting.

Should I confess? Should I keep it in? I should keep it in, don’t I? I mean, he’s Hanguang-Jun and I am the Yiling Patriarch! But, he also deserves to know, doesn’t he?

Kill me! No, don’t, Lan Zhan will be sad.

Help me!

- Wei Wuxian

It is a very short and straightforward letter.

Jiang Cheng also has short patience. Sandu in hand, he begins packing up again. He is growing tired of Cloud Recesses, and he doesn’t even live in it.

Lan Qiren is already old, and he wants nothing but peace before he dies. Perhaps it is penance for the way he has raised his nephews. Yet, the Elder Lan wishes that he could pay back for his negligence in a different way.

Not see Wangji and Wei Wuxian stare longingly at the other while another isn’t looking inside the Library Pavilion. His youngest nephew is repairing some old books and transferring the contents into more sustainable and long-lasting coverings, his hands steady as they smooth out the edges of the pages. The Yiling Patriarch is sitting across him, scribbling on a piece paper while occasionally looking up at Wangji.

Wangji feels the eyes on him and lifts his gaze. Lan Qiren, through the crack of the doors, has to hold onto the wall with the happiness in their expression when they catch each other’s eyes. Their happiness is tangible enough that it could light up the entirety of Cloud Recesses for a month.

They set off for a couple of days, and their world seemed to have been flipped upside down. What did we miss?

The winter season has nothing to do with the tremors that slither down his spine. Unable to keep quiet anymore, Lan Qiren forcibly slides the doors open – the impact loud and startling the Library Pavilion’s only occupants. Wangji goes to his feet instantly, bowing. Wei Wuxian’s legs under the table gets tangled so it takes him a while and quite an effort. His rising shoves his table a little, the piece of paper he’s doddling on slides onto the floor, teasingly landing in front of the Elder Lan. “Aiyah—that’s—“ Wei Wuxian begins but Lan Qiren has already bent down to see what it contains.

It is the wrong choice.

It’s a drawing of Wangji, sitting behind his desk, tending to some books with concentration. It is an astounding piece of work, except on the margins are Wei Wuxian’s scribble of Wangji’s name circled over and over again. Then at the bottom is the sentence: This is the man I adore!

Torn between relieved that Wei Wuxian has finally realized his true feelings and terrified at what this revelation entails, his hand shakes when he picks up the paper, rolls it up and throws it back to the Yiling Patriarch. He gives the the demonic cultivator a stern look before picking up the book he has forgotten in a corner table near the doors – his main reason to visit, honestly. “I am watching you, Wei Wuxian,” He warns before departing.

Brother, give me strength. Their story is just starting, technically, and I am curious to see how it ends. However, I think they might cause me to qi deviate soon.

Jin Ling is minding his business. He badly wants to graduate from Cloud Recesses, and never come back here again to study. The only tolerable things that might bring him back here are Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui. Perhaps even Ouyang Zizhen. Wei Wuxian is at the bottom of the list, but he is in his list nonetheless.

Until today when Jin Ling stumbles into the truth.

Cloud Recesses is a huge place, and it is harder to navigate than Lanling. Jin Ling has been here for five months and he still gets lost every time he steps out of the dormitory – the reason he’s always late to class. The residences almost look the same! He almost entered Hanshi one time, startling Lan Xichen.

Jin Ling wanted to hang out with the two Lan junior disciples however, both are missing. He has looked around most of the places he recognizes, and decides to step out of the Cloud Recesses in case they were on patrol duty. He ends up in Back Mountain where there is an abundance of trees and bushes almost hiding a small wooden bridge. Once he nears the edge of the bushes, he took notice of the steps descending to a misty spring.

He hears laughter, and it almost sounds as Jingyi’s mischievous laugh so Jin Ling chooses to venture and find out. His jaw hangs open when he sees Hanguang-Jun and Wei Wuxian seated on the rocks, their feet dipped into the waters. Lan Wangji is scrubbing his face with his hanging sleeve, slightly irritated but mostly fond. Wei Wuxian scoops up more water, but his companion grabs his hands and halts his wicked plan by intertwining their hands. “No more,” The Second Jade of Lan commands.

Wei Wuxian’s cheeks flare up. His laughter dies down as he looks down at their tangled hands. Then he erupts in more laughter, nodding. “Okay.” To compensate for his ruined plan, he uses his feet to splash water upwards into their faces. Lan Wangji is not impressed when water dribbles down his hair and nose. The Yiling Patriarch doesn’t have an ounce of regret in his face. “Oops? I didn’t—Ay! Lan Zhan!”

Jin Ling’s heart is hammering in his chest when Lan Wangji dives into the Cold Springs and pulls Wei Wuxian with him. They emerge, and the Yiling Patriarch – filled with happiness—squeezes Lan Wangji’s face between his hands. Lan Wangji has no complaint, compliant in the other’s hands.

Wei Wuxian’s eyes hold a confession Jin Ling would rather not have seen.

He hastily and sneakily goes back up and enters Cloud Recesses. Upon his entrance, Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui appear from the Yashi. “Oy, why are your cheeks red?” Jingyi asks in lieu of a greeting, raising an eyebrow.

The LanlingJin Sect Leader flushes ever more at the question, retrieving his bow to smack it on Jingyi’s arm. He chases after the most un-Lan of all Lan to drive out the heat that built up from watching his Uncle be foolishly infatuated with the esteemed Hanguang-Jun.

Wen Ning is a spectator, who always somehow arrives at the wrong –right—time.

Caiyi Town is a common resting stop. It is the safest place he could meet with his nephew, Lan Sizhui, and his friends. Being the Ghost General, Wen Ning has accepted that several places would always keep him out, and that includes Cloud Recesses.

Eyes traveling on the stalls around the area, he whirls around when he hears a familiar cheery voice call out, “Wen Ning!” Suddenly, there several feet away before him is Young Master Wei and Second Young Master Lan. The former is waving an arm enthusiastically, genuinely excited to see him. Wen Ning automatically opens his arms when his Young Master Wei comes barrelling towards him for a one-armed hug he has grown accustomed to when they are apart for a while. “It’s good to see you.”

Wen Ning is already half-dead, and hundreds of people have tried varying ways to kill him. They never tried using Lan Wangji’s terrifying, jealous glare against him – that would be the most effective process. Gulping, he gently extracts himself from Young Master Wei and hides behind the man in fright of Second Young Master Lan. “I-It’s good to see you too, Young Master. What brought you here?”

Wei Wuxian chuckles and throws an arm over Wen Ning’s shoulders, oblivious. Wen Ning could feel death nearing by the guise of a pair of golden eyes. “Lan Zhan and I are shopping. He will tend to some Chief Cultivator duties, then we’ll buy supplies to make dumplings.”

Lan Wangji, resigned with the fact that Wei Wuxian has attached himself to Wen Ning for the time being, turns to a comb-seller on a side. After pleasantries, they fall into a short, casual conversation. From beside him, Wei Wuxian leans closer and murmurs, “Wen Ning, let me tell you a secret.”

He nods, readying himself.

The Yiling Patriarch says the next part as if it was a secret, “I think I have fallen for Lan Zhan.”

Alright. “…And?” He prompts.

His Master blinks and turns to him, frowning. “Why aren’t you shocked?”

Wen Ning has to be? He tries again. “A-And?!”

The Yiling Patriarch gapes at his noticeably fabricated shock. “Wait, am I that obvious?” Wei Wuxian gasps, beginning to panic. “Has Lan Zhan found out? I’m not even certain if I would confess! I’m not even sure if he is inclined to feel the same way! Wen Ning, how ovious am I?”

Uh…to the point even the dead probably wanted you to get it together or they would revive themselves on their own to help you with it? He’s not risking his Master’s sanity with that thought. “…Not much,” He lies.

It works, Wei Wuxian deflating with the relief at his response. “Oh, thank Heavens. I’m not ready.”

Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder at their direction. “Wei Ying.”

With a last smile thrown at Wen Ning, Wei Wuxian detaches himself and hops over at where the Second Young Master Lan is, overlooking the display of combs, not a sliver of space in between their bodies.

Wen Ning smiles slightly. I think they will be fine even if the dead did not resurrect to help them.

Nie Huaisang finds out in the most unconventional way possible. A bare fan is laid on top of his table, beside it are the materials necessary for its transformation. It has taken him quite a while to get some inspiration, but he’s finished the design in his head.

He dips the brush for ink, and takes a deep breath – letting the ends meet the fan’s surface as lightly as possible for effect purposes. A younger cultivator comes knocking on his door after he has finished painting the first branch, and upon his permitted entrance, Huaisang finds out that he has received a letter from Sect Leader Jiang. “Huh? Eh, I don’t know what that could be possibly contain. Ay. Fine. Please read it for me. My hands are busy.”

The young cultivator nods, and unfolds the letters. Out loud he reads, “Sect Leader Nie Huaisang, I humbly request your reinforcement. Wei Wuxian has reached major dumbassery, and has recently found out the truth—“

His hand slips, ruining his masterpiece, and his head whirls towards the startled cultivator. “What?” He shrieks and gestures for the letter. Once in his hand, his eyes skim through it.

Sect Leader Nie Huaisang,

I humbly request your reinforcement.

Wei Wuxian has reached major dumbassery, and has recently found out the truth about his feelings. He is in panic, and has asked for my help with the situation.

He is a disaster, so what could I could possibly do? I am on my way to Cloud Recesses, yet I am only one man.

For the sake of friendship and our sanity, I request for your presence as well.

• Jiang Cheng

After he makes the cultivator swear never tell anybody about this, Huaisang grumbles about his friends as he tidies his table knowing he had to delay this masterpiece yet again. Once packed up, he heads to Cloud Recesses, wondering when he has become a chaperone to his friends.

Wei Wuxian doesn’t realize how huge of thing it would become.

It has been almost two weeks since he has come into the realization of his true feelings. It is hard to contain it within himself -- there are times his mouth wanted to spill the truth and they are typically during their usual routine together: Lan Wangji preparing Wei Wuxian’s bath in the evening, letting his hair be brushed by Wei Wuxian every night – entirely compliant and relaxed in the Yiling Patriarch’s presence, tending to their pet rabbits with the gentlest of hands, teaching his students with outmost care to their education, responding to stupid correspondences with polite brutality.

Lan Wangji is perfectly imperfect, and that makes Wei Wuxian fall for him even more. He falls for Lan Wangji’s inability to finish two glasses of liquor without getting drunk, his tendencies to respond monosyllabically even if he could misunderstood, his incapability of braiding Wei Wuxian’s hair. Everything.

Gen Lei is arriving tomorrow, two weeks away from the end of the six months he had been granted with. Lan Wangji has told Wei Wuxian weeks ago that the MeilinGen Sect Leader is a mere friend, making Wei Wuxian wonder where he stands. He knows he is also Lan Wangji’s friend despite the occasional dirty thoughts that spring up in Wei Wuxian’s head. Sometimes, though, he marvels if there were things he was still blind about. He marvels whether there were thing he blinded himself from.

Wei Wuxian is no fool. He has seen the way Lan Wangji’s eyes linger at him with a soft expression when he thought Wei Wuxian isn’t looking. He has heard of the fond sighs that come out his companion when the Yiling Patriarch does something that should be incredibly stupid. He had smelled the cool sandalwood mixed with myrrh, a scent Wei Wuxian had stated once that he likes; the combination almost seems like a metaphor of the two occupants of the jingshi. He has noticed that his taste buds had become accustomed with flavourful meals recently, all courtesy of Lan Wangji’s cooking. And he has observed the way their touches begin to burn – how much they crave to be near each other.

It gives him hope. It gives him too much hope that they become expectations, and he doesn’t want to expect. He doesn’t think he can bear with the heart breaking disappointment if he perceived things wrongly. He’s always been unreliable in this field.

This particular morning, snow has decided to stay for longer than usual. Frost falling down from the dark gray skies, it brings the cold with it. So he shamelessly reaches for Lan Wangji’s hand and twines them together, absorbing the warmth it brings. “Wei Ying,” The Second Jade of Lan greets with an inclined head, his face expressionless, yet his eyes hide a hint of tenderness.

Inhaling the calming scent of their home, he nods with a relaxed smile. “Lan Zhan,” He greets back. “How did you sleep?”

“As usual. You?”

“Great,” He admits, grinning. “I’ll go get dressed. You haven’t eaten breakfast yet, have you? Wait for me, okay?”

“Mn.”

It takes him fifteen minutes to get ready, sitting on his bed as he multi-tasked. Driven by laziness, he puts half of his hair in a ponytail with the help of his hair sash while putting on socks for extra warmth from the weather.

Lan Wangji is seated on the low table in front of him, preparing the letters he would send out and the notes he has finished grading to give back to his students in today’s class. His hair is up on its usual half-bun, the hair piece he has chosen is one Wei Wuxian hasn’t seen since they were students: the tiny one that looks like a branch growing horizontally. It makes him look younger when combined with the light blue robes he has begun to wear frequently since Wei Wuxian has commented that he liked it on Lan Wangji.

His forehead ribbon is, as usual, wrapped perfectly around his forehead, its ends fluttering as he moves his head around. Self-restraint. Discipline. A white cloth that Lan Wangji has possessed since he was born. A white cloth that has gone through wars and deadly fights still intact. A white cloth that attached its ends around Wei Wuxian’s and Lan Wangji’s wrists once – the start of everything when they fell into the Cold Pond Cave.

Wei Wuxian lays out a palm, and catches one of the billowing tails. Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder, confused with his action. So is Wei Wuxian, frankly. The fabric in his hand is soft yet sturdy, tempting him, teasing him.

One second he’s staring at it. A heartbeat later, he is kissing the tail of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon, the material almost as soft as the thing that had touched his lips in his dream in the Back Mountain.

Lan Wangji’s sharp intake of breath brings Wei Wuxian back to reality, making him drop the end of the forehead ribbon as if it physically burnt his hand. “Aiyoh, I---uh, Lan Zhan, I—“ He stutters, his mind blank. The Second Jade of Lan is staring at him with wide eyes, backed against the low table. Wei Wuxian feels dread in his stomach, its weight as heavy as a stone. He has gone so cold, and he’s certain it isn’t because of the weather and season. Lan Wangji’s expression is a whirlwind of emotions: he seems shocked, but mostly terrified and flustered. Wei Wuxian’s mind focuses on the second, hating the fright within those golden eyes.

A forced chuckle comes out his mouth, raspy and choked up. He tries to steady his voice when he says, “Don’t look like that, Lan Zhan! I was jo-joking! Joking!”

“Joking?” Lan Wangji repeats, brows furrowing.

Wei Wuxian decides to dig himself an even deeper hole to crawl in. “Yeah. A joke. It’s your forehead ribbon’s fault for teasing me! It kept on brushing my hand so—I—uh—gave it a kiss. It seemed to want a kiss!”

The terror in those eyes have now been infused with a simmering anger. The Second Jade of Lan’s voice is shaking when he hisses, “A joke. Wei Ying, you kissed my forehead ribbon.”

He is well aware of that. He grits his teeth, and frowns. “It’s not like I kissed you,” He protests, chest heaving.

That makes Lan Wangji even angrier. “No, you kissed my forehead ribbon. A GusuLan Sect ribbon. Do you even know what you’re kidding about?” He asks, a second away from pouncing him.

Wei Wuxian subconsciously scoots at the other end of his bed, frowning. “Should I?” He shoots back. “Lan Zhan, forget it! Just—forget it! I didn’t mean anything by it!” He insists, desperate to move on from this conversation. His heart clenches with the way Lan Wangji staggers with his offhanded response.

Then, hands are grasping his wrists. Tight enough to keep in place, not enough to bruise him. They are trembling. Lan Wangji’s pulse is way too fast.

“Lan Zhan—“ He begins worriedly as he tries to manuever their hands so he could check the man’s pulse.

“Don’t touch me.”

That knocks his breath away. “What…”

“Don’t touch me,” Lan Wangji repeats, his hands tightening around Wei Wuxian’s wrists.

He frowns at the shaking hands around his. “You are touching me.”

Fuming with anger, Lan Wangji releases him, kneels in front of him and methodically unties the knots behind his head. With a swift flick of his wrist afterwards, he is holding onto his loose GusuLan Sect forehead ribbon. Wei Wuxian is feeling suffocated with the emotions simmering in the jingshi, in the desperation in Lan Wangji’s eyes, in the guilt crawling up his chest. “Wei Ying, do you even know what our forehead ribbons are for?”

He goes to his feet, hands clenching on his sides. “Self-restraint. Discipline. Something. I know! I know! I know, alright? Just—forget it, please. Do not take what happened seriously!”

“Don’t take it seriously?” Lan Wangji echoes, his hands falling on his lap.

Wei Wuxian nods, his gaze lowered on the ground. “Uh-huh. Don’t. It was a spur of the moment, and will never ever happen again, I promise.”

Pain flashes through Lan Wangji’s eyes, and Wei Wuxian hates himself for being the reason behind it. “Have a good day. See you tomorrow.” Without looking back despite Lan Wangji’s attempt to call out his name, Wei Wuxian dashes out of the jingshi, leaving his heart with the man inside.

Lan Wangji must have gone through his planned itinerary for the day because Wei Wuxian stays with their bunnies in the Back Mountain for most of the day and no one disrupts him unlike what he has expected. It has happened once before, months ago.

Guilt-driven, he picks up a pair of bunnies –they wouldn’t let him separate them-- and enters Cloud Recesses with them cradled in his arms. The patrols rarely give him any attention wherever he goes since they know who he is, and they also know what bothering him will bring: Hanguang-Jun’s wrath.

His lotus-designed jade token of passages glows as he enters through the gates. Fingers absently petting the bunnies in his arms, he ascends the stairs until he’s in the vicinity of the different buildings. There are students roaming around, carefree and chattering, which means that classes have been dismissed and it is mid-afternoon. His traitorous feet bring him into the Lanshi, and finds it empty, not a sign of Lan Wangji inside.

Despite his nerves, he pads over to the jingshi next, but it is also barren. Now determined, Wei Wuxian visits the Administrative Office – empty as well. The Library Pavilion is no help whatsoever, occupied by several students readying for another recitation tomorrow.

Snow is still dropping languishly from the skies, landing softly on the ground, and it is such a lonely sight while Wei Wuxian walks around Cloud Recesses for Lan Wangji. He’s frankly not prepared for the talk they must have. You never are. When will you be?

But Wei Wuxian also doesn’t want things to be the way they are between them. A fornight ago, he has learned why Lan Wangji is painfully important and special to him. Earlier, he has a made a mistake and ran away again. It’s a pitiful scene, if he could say so himself. He has this inkling that if they didn’t fix this today, it could lead to ruins – and that scares him the most. Physical distance, he could go through. Emotional distance? Having this fight already tears him apart, what more of that?

The Yiling Patriarch ends up in the gardens, the pair of rabbits snuggling with each other on his lap and reminding him he could have had that with Lan Wangji, but they are both dumb idiots who probably –really—need to talk. “How are we supposed to talk if I couldn’t even find him?” He grumbles, sulking. “Little rabbits, stop flirting and give me advice,” He whines. Their pets just nuzzle even closer with each other. “Fine, be happy while your owner could potentially become single forever.”

“Young Master Wei?” A gentle voice calls out from his right.

When he looks up from bullying his bunnies, he finds Lan Xichen standing a couple of feet away with his arms folded behind him and a gentle smile perpetually plastered on his face. Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi are behind him, books in their arms, peering at him in mutual curiosity. Wei Wuxian gently places his bunnies on the empty space beside him to stand up and give Zewu-Jun a courteous greeting. When he rises, he notes Lan Wangji’s absence. It tinges his heart with worry.

Lan Xichen approaches, and notices his barely hidden frown. “Young Master Wei, what’s the matter?”

He lifts his gaze and catches the fluttering ends of the GusuLan Sect cultivators’ forehead ribbons, recalling what transpired behind the closed doors of their home before the day even begun. “Zewu-Jun!” He exclaims, swallowing his anxiety. “I—“ He bites his lip. “What does your forehead ribbon symbolize?”

If the man was surprised with his question, he hid it well. Tilting his head slightly, he gathers the best words to explain it. “I’m guessing you don’t need a history lesson, Young Master Wei. It is usually known as a sign of Lan cultivators’ self-restraint and discipline. It is a constant reminder of our rules.” Wei Wuxian knows that much. Then, why was Lan Wangji’s reaction so intense this morning? “However, it is also something sacred. From the very first GusuLan Sect Leader, it has been passed on that one’s forehead ribbon must only be touched by himself, his parents, and his spouse.”

Wei Wuxian stumbles at the last part. “S-Spouse?” He repeats.

Zewu-Jun nods. “No one else is allowed to touch it. Spouses become exemptions, because then a Lan cultivator is basically handing over his heart when he lets his spouse touch it or use it however the spouse wants,” The man finishes explaining.

The Yiling Patriarch has to sit down, so he does. With trembling legs, he seats himself and makes himself absorb everything he just heard. Spouse. Sacred. Exemptions. These are the words echoing in his mind, and Lan Wangji’s violent reaction suddenly makes sense. Wei Wuxian groans, hands hiding his face while his cheeks and ears tint red in embarrassment.

Lan Xichen stands in front of him, genuinely worried for his well-being. “Young Master Wei, what’s going on?” He looks around. “I have been meaning to ask you, but have you seen Wangji? He disappeared after classes.”

The mention of the Second Jade of Lan makes him groan even louder and longer, anguished.

Zewu-Jun is very intelligent. “Did something happen between you and Wangji?”

Wei Wuxian swallows, and lowers his hands onto his lap, looking up at Lan Xichen through his lashes. Seeing the man adamant to find out, he finally admits, “We had a fight?” He murmurs. It isn’t enough explanation, and he could see that with Lan Xichen’s raised eyebrow. So he takes a deep breath and grimaces down on the ground. “I am in love with your brother.”

That isn’t the confession he wanted to make.

“Finally,” He hears Jingyi groan behind Zewu-Jun.

“Jingyi,” Sizhui chides.

Taken aback with the suddenness of the confession, Lan Xichen stares at him for a whole minute before finding his voice back. “Uh—it’s great that you’ve finally come to terms with your feelings, Young Master Wei. I am glad as Wangji’s brother to find out how dear he is to you.” After a moment of Wei Wuxian’s guilty silence, he squints in suspicion. “I’m sensing this confession will be followed by something dreadful, Young Master Wei.”

Shutting his eyes, he blurts out, “I kissed Lan Zhan’s forehead ribbon earlier before breakfast. I, then, said it was a joke and that he shouldn’t take it seriously because I panicked at the intensity of his eyes and reaction. Afterwards, I ran out of the jingshi and hasn’t seen him since.” It all comes out in one breath, and by the end of it tirade, he is panting. “God, I’m not entirely surprised if he hated me now. I didn’t know how sacred your forehead ribbons are, and I went and did that!”

Lan Xichen seems to have lost all of his strength, staggering as he gapes at the Yiling Patriarch. Before he could say a word, though, someone barks, “I knew something like this would happen!” Wei Wuxian blinks when Jiang Cheng comes into view, striding towards them with purpose and a reddening face. “I leave for a while, and you manage to find out the truth then mess it up to the highest level.”

“Jiang Cheng?” He greets in confusion. His eyes land on the stumbling man behind the YunmengJiang Sect Leader, trying to catch up but failing miserably. “Huaisang?”

Once in front of him, his adoptive brother glowers down at him to the point Wei Wuxian couldn’t even tease him for looking like an utter mess due to his travel going to Cloud Recesses. Jiang Cheng places his hands on his hips, pursing his lips in disapproval. “You told me how bad you are in this field. You didn’t tell me the capacity of how bad you can be.”

“Bully me more, why don’t you,” He mumbles in dejection, sighing.

Huaisang arrives a second later, panting gracelessly. His appearance has seen better days too, but Wei Wuxian appreciates how quick they wanted to arrive to support him. It is a heartwarming thought. “Brother Wei,” The QingheNie Sect Leader whines, incredulous. “You really have to stop running away when panicking.” To receive that from Huaisang would have made him laugh mockingly years ago, except it absolutely applies to him for the moment so he lets it slide.

Jingyi lets out a loud sigh from behind Zewu-Jun. “After years of yearning, Hanguang-Jun can’t seem to arrive to their happy ending.”

Silence suddenly befalls the entire area. All head whirl around to look at the GusuLan junior disciple, their reactions varying. Wei Wuxian peers around Lan Xichen to stare openly at Lan Jingyi, who has turned crimson at the words that came out of his mouth. “Wait, wait, Jingyi, what did you just say?”

Books clattering onto the ground, the younger cultivator places his hands over his mouth, shaking his head. At the intensity of Wei Wuxian’s stare, he shrieks and shakes his head even more profusely.

“No, no, don’t shut up now!” The Yiling Patriarch protests, standing up, his senses tingling and pushing him to persist, because he’s missing something. He’s missing something! “What do you mean, Jingyi? What yearning? What happy ending?”

Jingyi bites his lip, glancing from Sizhui, Zewu-Jun and back to Wei Wuxian. The look he’s giving them makes Wei Wuxian curious. His son is uncomfortable, keeping his mouth shut but terribly tempted to speak up as well. Zewu-Jun, though, is shocked beyond measure while staring at Wei Wuxian. Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang are exchanging glances, resigned. “Oy, what the hell—“

“Do you seriously do not know, Young Master Wei?” Lan Xichen asks, tone beyond calm.

“Know what?” He asks back, frowning. His mind is buzzing with questions, and he hates being unable to provide it answers. “Know what, Zewu-Jun?”

Taking a deep breath, Zewu-Jun clasps his hands together in front of him, shutting his eyes – praying for patience. “Young Master Wei, Wangji is also in love with you.”

The words are like a bucket of cold water being dunk onto him, freezing him on where he stands. “E-Excuse me?”

“Wangji is in love with you, Young Master Wei,” Zewu-Jun repeats, enunciating each word with a hint of irritation.

Unable to accept it so easily, he chuckles weakly. “Hah. Zewu-Jun, oh, Zewu-Jun, this is not a funny payback to what I’ve done earlier towards Lan Zhan.” At Lan Xichen’s silent and angry dark golden eyes, he realizes how truthful the man has been, how heavy his words are. Wei Wuxian’s eyes widen, lips parting. The world seems to be shaking underneath him. “Zewu-Jun, how could that possibly be? I don’t—Why—What?“

“Frankly, I will never understand why either, Young Master Wei. But trust me, I am telling you nothing but the truth,” Lan Xichen snaps.

“That can’t be—“

Patience thinning, Zewu-Jun casts a ward and silencing spells around the gardens so that their conversation wouldn’t be heard by outsiders. Then he whirls around to face Wei Wuxian with a growing furious expression. “Young Master Wei, please stop listening to what you just want to hear. What else would be the reason that Wangji has that Wen brand on his chest?”

Now that he thought about it. “He never told me…” He admits lowly. “How is that related to…“ His mind catches up. “My previous body had that.”

Lan Xichen is a patient man unless it is his brother on the line. He is a big brother until the end, after all. “Yes! Young Master Wei, you did. Wangji didn’t barge into the Forbidden Chamber to search for books to lessen the demonic cultivation aftereffects on you, because he owed you his friendship. Wangji didn’t fight against allies and our own elders to protect you and your cave, because you are his first friend. Wangji didn’t receive his punishment of three hundred whips on the back and adopt a child he had bonded once, because you’re merely important to him. Wangji definitely didn’t return to Burial Mounds and play Inquiry until his fingers bled and his strings broke, because he wanted to know if you had rested in peace. Wangji didn’t wait and look for you for thirteen years, because he’s obligated to!”

The words are blow after blow, taking his breath away. Hands shaking, he grasps for Zewu-Jun arms. “Zewu-Jun, Lan Zhan—“

Shutting his eyes, there is a tremor in Lan Xichen’s voice when he speaks next, “Young Master Wei, I watched my brother grow up and my heart broke when he returned from Qiongqi Path soaking wet with tears streaming down his cheeks, knowing full well he couldn’t do anything to stop and help you. My heart broke for him when he came back from Burial Mounds after meeting you and A-Yuan just to be punished to kneel in front of the Wall of Discipline while it snowed. My heart broke for him with the anguish beneath my brother’s eyes when you fell from that cliff and never returned.”

The Older Jade of Lan pulls away to place his own hands on Wei Wuxian’s shoulders, shaking him with agitation. “Young Master Wei, Wangji has been a model disciple since he was young. Immaculate and disciplined. Envied by many, and looked up to by most. He was a prominent cultivator with a clean record, until you came along! I don’t want to call your meeting a mistake, because Wangji was, is and will be happiest by your side. Even the blind could see and even the deaf could hear that his feelings for you encompasses that of friendship. Did you know that he answered back Uncle when he was questioned while being whipped with the discipline whip? Did you know that his seclusion was also used to heal his back? Did you know that even if he was barely healed, he did his best to raise Sizhui? Did you know that one day he got drunk and saw the Wen branding iron in our treasure chamber, and branded himself with it?”

He branded himself with it…? He branded himself with it?!

Voice cracking with anger, Lan Xichen continues, “Young Master Wei, ever since you were resurrected, he has did his best to show you his affections. Wangji is a man of actions, I’m sure you know that, I’m sure you see that. Yet, I never grasped how truly you did not know. You tell us you do not know after everything that happened? You tell me that you are also in love with Wangji, but why do you keep on stepping forward then stepping backwards! You have to understand why I am this furious!”

Wei Wuxian’s heart could burst open any moment, his mind spinning with everything thrown at his face. Lan Wangji is also in love with him? After all these years? Before he died, he pushed the man away even if Lan Wangji was the only person to ever truly scold him for his sake. He was offered to be taken to Gusu, not because Lan Wangji wanted him exorcised but to help him, because that’s how much he mattered to the other. After Wei Wuxian resurrected, he has been mindless and careless with his words and actions towards Lan Wangji – even going as far as doubting Lan Wangji’s belief on him, and flirting with the man ocassionally to rile him up.

Despite being oblivious to how much he could affect the Second Jade of Lan, Lan Wangji has done everything he could to ensure Wei Wuxian’s satisfaction and health. Even when he was unreasonable at times, Lan Wangji typically never denied his requests. Even when he was childish and immature, Lan Wangji went along with him. Even when he was scorned and hated, Lan Wangji…loved him through it all – his devotion and loyalty endless.

Groaning, he hides his face in his hands again. “How am I supposed to talk to him now? I feel like an utter asshole. A huge dumb ass.”

“You both are,” Jiang Cheng scoffs. “Lan Wangji also has his fault for not speaking out.”

Lan Xichen, defensive of his younger brother, stares at the YunmengJiang Sect Leader, sulking. “I just said he’s a man of actions.”

“Sometimes, people need words too!” Jiang Cheng protests, cheeks flaring up.

Huaisang chuckles. “Well, sometimes, people also need to get out of denial when they’re obviously just in denial,” He comments with side-eye towards Wei Wuxian.

“Stop it! You’re making me want to burrow myself in a hole even more!” Wei Wuxian whines, prepared to cry with the idiocy of their situation.

Heavens, if we only talked like reasonable adults.

You just realized that now? His brain retorts back.

Just as he is about to take a seat and re-think his life choices, Jingyi’s hand wraps around his arm. “Come on,” The junior grumbles, pulling him to his feet. “Follow me.”

“Eh? Huh? Where?”

Jingyi doesn’t answer him, already dragging him towards a familiar direction. Letting himself be hauled away, he begrudgingly follows after the junior disciple with burning curiosity. After several minutes of being manhandled, they end up in front of the jingshi as he has suspected.

Sizhui is already standing outside, a sheepish smile on his face. Wei Wuxian then realized that his son has indeed disappeared in the middle of the commotion that occurred in the gardens. The junior’s arms are raised and blocking the doorway, almost as if containing a beast inside. “Hanguang-Jun is inside. I found him practicing his guqin in the Underworld Chamber, mood ominous – it was quite a sight. Anyway, I managed to talk him over to come over here.”

Wei Wuxian gazes at closed doors, remembering the last time he’s stepped inside. Are they ready for this conversation? God damn it, Wei Wuxian. “I—kids—uh--“

“Heavens, you’re annoying,” An irritating voice comments. They all turn around and find Gen Lei, suddenly beside Huaisang on the side. Jin Ling has also appeared, seeming to have become Gen Lei’s only welcome party when the man arrived and has decided to follow. “I arrived a day early because I had a foreboding feeling when I woke up. I also have an inkling to what I missed,” The MeilinGen Sect Leader says with an exhausted sigh.

Ignoring him, Wei Wuxian faces the the GusuLan junior disciples, who are staring at him eagerly. “Aiyah, even if you looked at me like that. I don’t think—ey! Ay! Oy!”

All of a sudden, Jiang Cheng and Huaisang slide the jingshi’s doors open the same moment that Sizhui steps back. Jingyi releases Wei Wuxian’s arm, and Jin Ling and Gen Lei shove him full-force through the threshold of their home. The doors slide close right after, and he hears Lan Xichen cast a powerful ward to keep them shut.

Once Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are trapped inside, they hear, “Now, talk!” The men outside the jingshi growling the words in unison.

Chapter Text

Once Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are trapped inside, they hear, “Now, talk!” The men outside the jingshi growling the words in unison.

Staring forlornly at the sealed shut doors in front of him, Wei Wuxian’s hands land on the doors. He isn’t surprised at being rejected by the ward placed, Lan Xichen is known as one of the greatest cultivators in their generation for a reason.

A deep breath later, he gradually turns around to face the other occupant of their home. Lan Wangji is in the same position he was in this morning, behind the low table and in front of Wei’s Wuxian bed. The Yiling Patriarch was hoping there was something that could have distracted the other – a correspondence, a paper to grade, his guqin— from looking back at Wei Wuxian. Yet, there isn’t. Lan Wangji is seated perfectly poised in front of him, hands on his lap, staring right back at him.

A flash of anxiety passes through those golden eyes when Wei Wuxian twists fully to address him, and the the Yiling Patriarch realizes that it isn’t only him who has been dreading this conversation. They have separated on bad terms earlier – a huge step backwards after tiny steps forward. Wei Wuxian understands his beloved’s apprehension.

Silently he pads over to his bed and seats on it, his sock-clad feet digging onto the wooden floor. Lan Wangji has also gone to his feet and steps back to seat himself beside Wei Wuxian. They stay in that position, with inches between them, for several minutes.

“Lan Zhan—“

“Wei Ying—“

They start speaking at the same time, immediately cutting themselves off for the other’s expense.

Wei Wuxian blinks and gestures for Lan Wangji to continue, “You can go first—“

Lan Wangji has also opened his mouth, “Continue—“

Both of them turn their heads towards each other, surprised at the turn of events. Their shocked expressions slowly turned to mirth. Wei Wuxian couldn’t help his laughter, just as Lan Wangji’s eyes crinkle slightly in amusement.

When they descend into silence again, the Yiling Patriarch knows that they truly must talk. The universe clearly wants them to. Their friends have pushed them to do so. Given the opportunity, why exactly are they still afraid? “Lan Zhan,” He says, taking a deep breath. The moment their eyes meet again, he blurts out, “I am in love with you.”

Lan Wangji’s eyes widen, golden eyes shimmering with surprise clouded with hope. His rosy lips part, breathing, “You do?” His voice comes out soft and small, as if he was afraid he heard Wei Wuxian wrong. At Wei Wuxian’s certain nod, he sucks in a large gulp of air. “Wei Ying.”

The Yiling Patriarch gently raises his hand and places his index finger over the Second of Lan’s lips, shushing him. “Lan Zhan, I am in love with you. Immensely so. I learned of the truth a fortnight ago, right after we visited our Lake of Memories creating more memories. You might think it’s just because of that day, but it isn’t. You have occupied my mind even we were apart. You were the first person I’ve thought of when I woke up in the Mo Village. Yours is the life I wanted to protect badly in the Nightless City when I almost lost everything. For years, I have followed after you – wanting your attention, wanting to be close to you, wanting to be your friend.

Yet, the moment we’ve established our friendship, tragedies had befallen us. You wanted nothing but to help me, but I had pushed you away – I hurt you. Countless times. Still, you remained by my side until the end – holding onto me when I didn’t even want to cling to life anymore. I found out how you searched for me for sixteen years, how much you’ve grieved when I died, how you branded yourself to experience what I did. You told me once that you have regretted not being by my side in the Nightless City. Heavens, Lan Zhan, years and years of suffering I’ve made you go through -- why do you love me so much?” He couldn’t help asking.

Lan Wangji doesn’t respond, merely staring back at him with stubborn set of eyes.

Wei Wuxian lets out a disbelieving huff of air -- half chuckle, half sob. “After I was reborn, I thought you would have hated me so I tried to stay out of your way. Yet, you’ve stood by me. You’ve stuck by my side even if that meant ruin to your reputation, even if your own clan might never pardon your rebellion. How was I so blind to your affections?”

A hand finds his in the space between their bodies. “I have never been good with words,” Lan Wangji murmurs, almost apologetic.

The Yiling Patriarch shakes his head, squeezing the other’s hand. “No, no, Lan Zhan. I have never been good with seeing signs either,” He murmurs. “I am so in love with you, and I don’t even know how and when it started. Perhaps, I was already infatuated after our swords met on the roof of Cloud Recesses and I found out that you’d already let my siblings in without our invitation. Maybe it was gradual attraction brought by the life-threatening events we have been through together. It doesn’t matter. What matters is,” He scoots closer to pick up Lan Wangji’s free hand, cupping both of the man’s hand in his. “-- You are the best thing that happened in my life –lives—and I am grateful that I met you. I used to call you boring, rigid and dull, but I think all this time, I just wanted to see the man beneath that shell GusuLan Sect rules have created. The man who is a terrible drunk. The man who who can’t lie for his own good. The man who can’t braid my hair. The man who shows no mercy when it came to punishments.”

“Are these compliments?” Lan Wangji asks.

Laughing, he intertwines their hands between their bodies once they have both twisted to face each other. “The man I love is imperfectly perfect. Despite all those things he couldn’t do, he is capable of so many great things as well. He cooks so well. He plays guqin amazingly. He fights astoundingly. Most of all, he has never ever given up on the people he loves. He tends to our rabbits even if keeping pets is forbidden in Cloud Recesses. He cares for his junior disciples, enough to risk his life for their sake. He has taken in my A-Yuan so that he would grow up healthy and loved. And, he has waited so many years for me without ever knowing if I would come back.” Tears fall down his cheeks. “I am so sorry, Lan Zhan. Thank you.”

Lan Wangji retracts one of his hands away to thumb away Wei Wuxian’s tears, his own eyes glistening with unshed tears. “There are no need for ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ between us, Wei Ying. I have loved you all these years, because I just do. I didn’t need a reason. I didn’t need persuasion. I will always have regrets. But I’m happy, you’re here, I’m happy.”

Wei Wuxian frowns, cupping one of his beloved’s cheeks. “Then why do you sometimes look terribly sad?”

“There will always be sadness in me. There will always be,” Lan Wangji murmurs. And somehow, Wei Wuxian understands. He is not made of sunshine and happiness himself. “I am not good with words, but I hope you know. That you’re the most important person in my life.”

He nods, leaning into the palm on his own cheek. “I know. You never made me feel the opposite.”

The Second Jade of Lan lowers his gaze and seems to struggle for a while. He clenches his jaw, and purses his lips. Words never come easily for Lan Wangji – his silent personality ingrained since childhood. Words have sometimes become his enemy. Words have sometimes caused him friendship and loyalty. Wei Wuxian’s heart squeezes at the painful effort Lan Wangji exerts to find the words he wants to say, so he waits patiently. “Wei Ying is the brightest point of my life. Meeting you outside the gates of Cloud Recesses—you had such a radiant smile. I…I was confused and hated how you had—how you affected me. So I ignored you, gave you the cold shoulder, and pushed you away.”

His nose scrunches. “I remember very well.”

Lan Wangji hums, and continues while he can, “I wanted you away, yet I wanted you close as well. You have hidden sadness, but you always still smile. Even when you were lonely—others still matter more for you—I couldn’t understand you. When darkness began to consume you, it pained me.”

There is a pause after that, and Wei Wuxian remembers a snowy night and Lan Xichen’s story – a gentian house that could only be visited once a month. Then a door that never opened. A woman used to live inside it, beloved yet caged, because of the darkness everyone thought she possessed.

Wei Wuxian squeezes Lan Wangji’s hand still twined with his. “Hey.”

That brings the other back. “I didn’t know what to do,” Lan Wangji admits. “I wanted you safe. But I failed and you fell to your death. That’s why…I prayed to the Heavens to return Wei Ying, making a vow to take care of Wei Ying if you came back. Then you did.”

The Yiling Patriarch feels his troat close up when Lan Wangji looks incredibly happy when he repeats, “Then you did.” He shuts his eyes. “Wei Ying is good. Wei Ying wanted nothing but peace and justice for the cultivation world, even after he was hated. I loved him even more then.”

Remembering one of the people who shoved him inside the jingshi earlier, he asks, “What about Ge—Young Master Gen?”

A look of guilt clouds Lan Wangji’s face. “Gen Lei is a friend now. He…he loves me, and I thought I could try moving on, letting Wei Ying occupies part of my heart for eternity. But, I can’t. I can’t. Heart belongs to Wei Ying, every inch of it.”

Unable to contain the multitude of his feelings, Wei Wuxian throws himself onto Lan Wangji. The other catches him effortlessly, and lets Wei Wuxian straddle his lap, looking up at the Yiling Patriarch with equal adoration. Wei Wuxian shrieks and dives to plant kisses on Lan Wangji’s nose, eyelids, cheeks and on the crown of his head while his hands cradle the man’s face. Giggling, he pecks Lan Wangji’s cute nose again. “I love you too. So much. I want to sleep with you everyday. I want to wake up with you. I want to go night hunting with you. I want to cultivate with you. I want to grow old with you.”

Lan Wangji nods, encircling his arms around Wei Wuxian’s middle. “I want to sleep with you everyday. I want to wake up with you. I want to go night hunting with you. I want to cultivate with you. I want to grow old with you,” He repeats perfectly, sincerity evident in his face. “Wei Ying.”

“Yeah?”

“Kiss me?”

Blood rushes to his face at the request, at the bright golden eyes staring at him, at the rosy lips waiting for him. His heart is about to jump out of his throat, and he wouldn’t even bother chasing after it. “Heavens. You will ruin me, Lan Zhan,” He sighs in fondness.

Sulking slightly, Lan Wangji grows impatient and leans upward to capture Wei Wuxian’s lips in his. Smiling at his beloved’s boldness, Wei Wuxian relents and leans down to deepen their kiss. Lan Wangji’s lips have always been rosy against his pale skin, yet Wei Wuxian never truly expected that they are also incredibly hot and wet. He doesn’t have any single experience with kissing, so he’s going along with his instincts. Though, he’s brought to surprise when Lan Wangji guides him along.

Angle insufficient, Wei Wuxian gasps when Lan Wangji flips them over on the bed. The Yiling Patriarch ends up sprawled on his bed with the Second Jade of Lan over him -- the man’s knee in between his legs and their chests against each other. Barely getting enough time to catch his breath, Wei Wuxian’s lip are occupied again. His eyes fall shut when they find the right angle. After a bit of coaxing, he parts his lips and their tongue begin a war, a dance, an explosion. Toes curling, Wei Wuxian wraps his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck to pull him even closer.

A moan escapes his mouth when Lan Wangji pulls away slightly to bite his bottom lip. His fingers clutch his beloved’s long, dark hair when Lan Wangji sucks onto his bottom lip enough to make them plump when released. Lips bruised, his chest is heaving when the Second Jade of Lan moves back to look at his dissheveled appearance. “Pretty,” The most beautiful man to ever exist comments once his eyes land on Wei Wuxian’s face.

The compliment sends electricity all over Wei Wuxian’s body, making his cheeks flare up. “Lan Zhan! A little warn—Oh.” His protest gets cut off when Lan Wangji leans down to mouth Wei Wuxian’s throat, searching for his pulse point. A groan emits out of his lips when once it is found, and Lan Wangji proceeds to nibble the skin, leaving an indent, a mark.

“Mine,” Lan Wangji whispers as he pecks the mark he’s left on Wei Wuxian’s neck. Then as if he wasn’t acting like a dog who enjoyed biting, Wei Wuxian finds his nose being nuzzled with Lan Wangji’s. “Wei Ying. Alright?”

Oh, Heavens, save me. My heart can’t bear this much love.

Wei Wuxian chuckles, and pulls Lan Wangji’s face closer to him. He places a kiss on the cloud-design in the middle of his beloved’s forehead. He wants to apologize but there is no ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ between them. “This time I mean it.”

Color rises to Lan Wangji’s cheeks and ears endearingly. “Mn,” He murmurs, nodding.

“From now on, no more running away. We communicate. Even if it’s tough, even if we fought. We talk. Okay?”

He receives another nod. “Mn.”

Wei Wuxian goes for another kiss, already missing those lips against his. “I love you.”

Lan Wangji reciprocates, melting into the touch. “I love you too.”

Once the Second Jade of Lan pulls away, Wei Wuxian’s heart soars at the domesticity of it all. Lan Wangji is wearing formal robes, but his hair is only up in half-bun, locks of hair on sides of his face. His clothes are partly showing his skin after much messing around on their part – Wei Wuxian’s eyes linger a little bit on Lan Wangji’s muscled chest. Then there is that crooked forehead ribbon and dissheveled appearance caused by their kissing. Heat pools around his stomach and the lower regions seeing Lan Wangji like this. “Lan Zhan, do we have any appointment after this?”

Lan Wangji blinks and tilts his head. “No.”

A mischievous smile appears in his face, dragging his beloved close again. “Want to start everyday right now?”

It takes a single second for the other to comprehend his train of thought. Cheeks flushing, Lan Wangji comments casually and emotionlessly, “Everyday means everyday.”

Just as Wei Wuxian is to reach and untangle the knot of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon to begin their activity, a loud shriek from outside halts their movements, “That is more than talking! We said to talk! Not to fuck!”

“Jingyi!”

The two of them exchange a glance. Those sounded like Jingyi and Sizhui’s voices.

 Wei Wuxian doesn’t retract his arms around Lan Wangji even when the latter begins to move away from their embrace. “No,” He whines. “Stay.”

Lan Wangji doesn’t need much persuasion. “Mn.”

“What ‘Mn’?! No! If you continue what you’re doing in there, I will demolish this house to bury you in it,” Jiang Cheng’s angry voice growl from outside the door.

Giggling when Lan Wangji decides to nibble his earlobe, Wei Wuxian decides to test the waters, “Jiang Cheng, listen closely. You might need this lesson soon if you ever decided to pursue Zew—“

His adoptive brother cuts him off with a loud shout of nonsense. He couldn’t help his laughter at Jiang Cheng’s panic. “Fuck you, Wei Wuxian!”

A breathy groan escapes him when Lan Wangji bites a little harder. “I’m already taken. Ask the man beside you instead.”

“—Let me in! Sect Leader Lan, let me in! I am going to kill that man and feed him to my dogs. Unhand me! Unhand me this instant! He will perish in my hands with the slowest death in history.”

A familiar chuckle and gentle voice enters the conversation, “Calm down, Sect Leader Jiang. Deep breaths. Wangji, Young Master Wei, congratulations is in due. However, please untangle yourself from each other. We want to congratulate you in person.”

Lan Wangji turns his head towards the door with an almost visible pout. “Brother,” He protests. In his language, that is almost a whine.

Expert with handling the Young Jade of Lan, Zewu-Jun says one thing in a firm tone, “Wangji.”

Wei Wuxian laughs at the almost apologetic look he receives from Lan Wangji after that. He pinches his partner’s cheeks and pecks those lips that have become his addiction. “It’s fine. We have years and years ahead of us.”

“Everyday means everyday.”

He snorts at the reminder. Lan Wangji and his memory. “Alright then. That will begin this evening. Alright?”

At his partner’s assent, they untangle themselves from each other. Lan Wangji goes on his feet and methodically fixes his appearance. Wei Wuxian sits up on the bed, doesn’t bother to fix much of himself and cradles his chin in his hand, watching his…lover move around their home to make himself more presentable. Perk of going out with Hanguang-Jun is seeing him transform from the beast on the sheets to the unearthly god he is out on the streets. Heavens, Wei Wuxian needs to learn new and more appropriate modern sayings.

Lan Wangji stands in front of their mirror and meticulously fixes his robes and half-bun. The Yiling Patriarch stands up abruptly when his beloved begins to choose among his hair pieces. Wickedly, Wei Wuxian picks up the tiny crown-like hair piece and stands on his toes to set it onto the top of Lan Wangji’s head. With a little of twinking it from right to left, and with the help of barely visible hair pins, the things sits atop of Lan Wangji – completing his ethereal beauty.  

 Because he can, Wei Wuxian pulls Lan Wangji for another kiss.

Jingyi’s uncontrollably loud voice travels through the doors, “What do you think they are doing in there? It’s gone quiet.”

“Do you want to hear them?” Jin Ling exclaims, affronted.

“They could have set a silencing talisman so we wouldn’t hear, they’re shameless that way,” Huaisang suggests with a giggle.

Gen Lei groans. “Do not give them any ideas, Sect Leader Nie. It’s cold, I want to go and warm up. But I will kill Wei Wuxian if he dared lay a hand on Lan Wangji on the first day they finally learned they could communicate.”

“There’s one braincell in there. Its owner depends on the day,” Jiang Cheng grumbles.

Lan Xichen quips, “It’s usually with Wangji.”

“Sect Leader Lan, without all due respect, have you seen your brother when Wei Wuxian is doing something stupid? He also becomes stupidly infatuated. Trust me, I witnessed more than I wanted in a lifetime,” His adoptive brother sighs, letting out an audible and loud shiver. Then he’s shrieking, “—W-What? No, I didn’t shiver because of the cold! I shivered because of the memories—“

“—It’s cold nonetheless. Take it. I’m used to the cold anyway,” Zewu-Jun interrupts, a smile evident in his tone. Wei Wuxian has an idea what just occurred outside their doors, chuckling silently. Based on Lan Wangji’s expression, he also does and he’s not entirely pleased about it.

“Seriously, what is happening in there? I don’t hear anything. Thinking about it, these doors are thin, aren’t they? We heard every single thing earlier,” Jingyi comments with awe.

Sizhui finally speaks up, “I beg you, stop reminding me. I don’t think I can face my parents for a month after this.”

There’s the presence of a spiritual energy being casted, and something lifts from the jingshi. Then slowly, the doors slide open. Wei Wuxian snorts at seeing everyone entering with a hand over their eyes. “Are you decent?” Gen Lei asks.

“Yes,” Lan Wangji responds, and their visitors begin to unveil their eyes.

So, to mess around, Wei Wuxian immediately adds, “No. Lan Zhan is naked.”

Jingyi clasps both of his hands over his eyes in panic. He almost topples backwards if not for Sizhui who had predicted the Yiling Patriarch’s prank and had not fallen for it. Their son gives him an unimpressed look that resembles Lan Wangji’s perfectly, he has to laugh.

After his farce has been thwarted by his laughter, their visitors unveil their eyesight. Lan Wangji, a model disciple even at this very moment, poises for a salute, cups his hands and bows lowly. In automatic response ingrained in them, their guests straighten up to return the salute.

Wei Wuxian whistles at looking around their usually empty home. “Wow. We have a crowd. Welcome to the jingshi everyone, where everything shameless happens.” No one denies it.

Zewu-Jun faces them with a proud smile, “Happiness overflows within me knowing you two have finally talked things out. It has taken you over twenty years. I thought I had to qi deviate before it happened, but fortunately I was granted with more years to watch you two grow.”

“Grow stupider,” Jiang Cheng quips, rolling his eyes. “I can’t believe you needed Sect Leader Lan to yell at you to comprehend everything. You made the most patient man in the cultivation world snap. Wei Wuxian, don’t you live up to the Jiang Clan’s motto way too much?”

He pouts, crossing his arms over his chest. “You told me to attempt the impossible!”

“Attempt the impossible! Not attempt the shittiest way to confess to your loved one and then run away right after! Gah. It’s a mouthful but it’s the best thing to describe what you did,” The YunmengJiang Sect Leader spits with exasperation, shaking his head.

Wei Wuxian chuckles and leans his head on his partner’s shoulder. “Thank you. Everything is fine now – we have talked, uh-- did more than that, and confessed. The ground is now steady and stable, and it will continue to be in every lifetime we would be gifted with. It has taken so long, and we have made you suffer. Thank you for being patient with us, and throwing us into a room together.” He then laughs, slapping a hand on his stomach. “Imagine if you didn’t. How much more pining would you have witnessed?”

“Enough to kill myself?” Jin Ling guesses with a scorn.

“Enough for Sect Leader Gen to whisk Hanguang-Jun away?” Huaisang asks behind a spread out fan.

At the same time, Gen Lei rolls his eyes and apathetically suggests, “Enough to whisk Lan Wangji away?”

“No to kidnapping!” Wei Wuxian exclaims, hiding his partner behind him and away from Gen Lei. “How dare you suggest abduction in front of my face?”

Lan Wangji stops their petty argument by stepping forward and bowing yet again. Afterwards, he rises with a phantom of a smile in his face. “Thank you, everyone.” The smile is barely visible, but his happiness is evident in his glimmering golden eyes, which are typically emotionless. Wei Wuxian looks over at their guests, chuckling at the utter awe in their faces at receiving such a rare sight.

The Yiling Patriarch, feeling his own bliss overflowing within him and feeling generous, lets them have their fill on one of Lan Wangji’s rare smiles.

To celebrate, Wei Wuxian invites their guests for dinner in the jingshi. Lan Wangji has extra of the soup and meal he has cooked last night stored in the kitchen, so the Yiling Patriarch asked for it to be heated up by the servants.

Lan Wangji sets his guqin, paper works and incense set aside, and along with Lan Xichen, places his bedside table beside the low table in the common room where they usually eat their dinner. Once attached together, sitting mats are separated to accommodate the seven guests and two permanent occupants of the home.

With Sizhui’s help, they manage to bring the meals and cutleries from the kitchen to the jingshi in one go. Once segregated, each of them fall into a seat, a pair sitting across each other, and Jingyi seated on the very end of the table. The meals are passed from one to another, two sets of tea pots served by the Twin Jades of Lan.

Night has fallen, and a full moon has come with it. The doors remain slightly open, letting the natural crisp of the winter air in, the snow still dropping from the skies.

Neither Lan Xichen nor Lan Wangji truly chide the others when dinner becomes an eventful meal. Chopsticks clatter against porcelain when someone leans over to pick up more pieces of tofu. Laughter rings in the room when Huaisang spills some tea onto the table because of clumsy hands. Shrieks of embarrassment echo as interruptions in between their trading of –embarrassing- stories of their pasts.

Gen Lei’s eyes fall on the hair piece on Lan Wangji’s head when the Second Jade of Lan leans forward to retrieve the tea pot and pour himself another cup. “Oh. You’re wearing that?”

Lan Wangji follows his gaze and nods hesitantly. “Wei Ying put it on for me.” Gen Lei whips his head to glare at Wei Wuxian, and the Yiling Patriarch sticks his tongue out at the other. Lan Wangji blinks at their interaction. There’s a sliver of guilt in his tone when he says, “You don’t mind, do you? I’ll understand if you would like it off.”

The MeilinGen Sect Leader gasps, and waves his hands in a dismissive gesture. A slightly sad smile takes over his face. “I’m genuinely happy for you. I’m glad things are not awkward enough for us that you still use my gifts.”

“You have put effort in them. They’re important to me.”

Wei Wuxian shivers at the wicked glimmer in Gen Lei’s eyes when the man turns to him and says between gritted teeth, “Stop him. Stop him, Wei Wuxian. Because if you don’t, I might abduct him back to Meilin.”

Possessively, he goes around the table to hide Lan Wangji in his arms, glaring at Gen Lei. “Not if I abducted him back to Yiling or Yunmeng first.”

Lan Xichen, taking pity of his suffocating –but happy-- younger brother, extracts Wangji away. “No one is adbucting my brother anywhere.”

“Just imagine how much you would get if you did manage to abduct Hanguang-Jun,” Jin Ling mumbles, looking up at the ceiling, and naively does his calculations out loud. “How much gold is too much gold?”

Huaisang plops a piece of lettuce inside his mouth. “There is no such thing. Hanguang-Jun is gold. Oh, wait, he’s jade.”

“Where is this conversation going?” Jingyi whispers at Sizhui on his left, who is staring at Jin Ling with amusement.

Sizhui, bless him, chuckles and murmurs back, “Let them be. They rarely get to be this carefree.”

Lan Wangji, uncaring of the somewhat compliments he’s receiving, has arranged nine small bowls in front of him and has began ladling soup into each. One by one, he passes them over. Wei Wuxian inhales the smell, and leans over to plant a kiss on his partner’s jaw. “Thank you.”

He receives a kiss on his forehead in return. “No need.”

Lan Xichen scoops a spoonful and takes a taste, blinking down at the dish with a smile. “This is delicious. Can you set aside a bowl for Uncle? I’ll bring it to him before curfew.” Lan Wangji’s nod is instant, pleased.

The others have also started eating their own serving, throwing compliments here and there. Jiang Cheng, however, has turned speechless at the first sip. He lifts his gaze from his bowl to where Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are seated. A flash of anger appears in his eyes followed by muted gratitude. “It almost tastes the same.”

“Same as what?” Jin Ling asks beside him, consuming the soup with vigour. 

“Your mother used to make that for us when we were younger, Jin Ling,” Wei Wuxian responds, smiling at the surprise in his nephew’s face. “Nothing beats hers, but I hope Lan Zhan replicated it enough in her honor. She would have wanted you to have tasted it.”

Jin Ling looks down at his empty bowl, his lower lip beginning to wobble. “Mom cooked something this tasty? This is the taste of Mom’s cooking?” At Jiang Cheng’s nod, his hands tremble. “Mom’s lotus root and ribs soup.” He hastily runs to a corner of the room, scrubbing his eyes with his palms. Jiang Cheng stands up and comes over, silent comfort.

While waiting for their stomachs to digest their meals, they stay outside on the porch and front yard of the jingshi – topics jumping from one to another.

Wei Wuxian tilts his head when Lan Wangji enters their home for a while. His partner disappears, and returns with familiar boxes in his hands. He sets both boxes on the railing of steps and lifts their lids. Immediately, conversations die down when silver butterflies spring out of Gen Lei’s second courtship gift, circling around them. Their appearance is followed by a tune and a pair of hologram bunnies curiously peering at the real pair of rabbits sleeping on Wei Wuxian’s lap.

Lan Wangji, content at Wei Wuxian and the others’ company, seats himself beside the Yiling Patriarch on the stair case steps. They watch silently as their guests play around with the silver butterflies Gen Lei have invented and gifted them with.

Placing his chin on his beloved’s shoulder, Wei Wuxian smiles tenderly at Lan Wangji’s curious look. “Kiss?” At his partner’s permission, he tilts his head to kiss the corner of Lan Wangji’s mouth where the mole is visible and teasing him. The tune that connected them even while they were both being idiots is resonating around them, and he hums along. “Lan Zhan.”

“Mn.”

“What is the name of that song?”

“It’s our song.”

He blinks, giddy with the information. “It is? What is it named then?”

Lan Wangji turns to tuck a lock of Wei Wuxian’s hair behind his ear, the touch immensely gentle, and his fond eyes reflecting Wei Wuxian’s love struck face on them. The Second Jade of Lan leans over until his lips are right beside the Yiling Patriarch’s ear. His deep voice makes the latter’s hair rise when he whispers, “Wangxian.”

It takes him a heartbeat to comprehend what his partner has murmured. Then he is laughing, foolishly happy when he climbs Lan Wangji’s lap to pull him for a kiss. “Damn it, Lan Zhan!” He shouts in delight. “You make me so happy. I love you.”

Arms wrap around his middle, then his lover’s forehead leans against his. “Mn. Me too.”

Their poor visitors, forgotten in the midst of their staring, all turn away from the scene with crimson faces.

Jiang Cheng grabs the back of his nephew’s collar and drags the both of them out there before they combust from embarrassment, all throughout the YunmengJiang Sect is questioning whether they had done the right thing with getting those two together. Jin Ling splutters after his Uncle.

Lan Xichen blinks when the Lan junior disciples grab his hands and look up at him with expressions screaming, “Please get us out here. We can only endure so much. We’re too young for this.” He nods and gestures for them to go.

The Older Jade of Lan doesn’t call out the fact that both juniors have ran in Cloud Recesses. Shaking his head in exasperation, he heads back to hanshi, tilting his head. Father, Mother, now that’s done. How about guiding me with my love story next?

Gen Lei, with one last look at the couple, turns around and steps out on his own accord. Letting go feels like a heavy stone in his stomach and a torn open heart, but he has come to accept it. The snow falls harder just as he takes a step out of the archway, then he blinks when something shields his face from the frost.

When he turns, he finds Nie Huaisang using an unusually huge fan over Gen Lei’s head. Another is covering his own head. “I don’t have an umbrella,” He whispers, giggling. 

“These are big enough to be considered umbrellas, Sect Leader Nie.”

“Aiyoh, don’t call me that, it doesn’t fit me. Call me Nie Huaisang,” The other introduces casually, falling into the same step beside him.

He smirks. “Alright, Nie Huaisang. You can call me Gen Lei.”

Huaisang lowers the fan over his head to hide half of his face, a large grin behind it. “Noted!”

It’s funny how unpredictable life is.

Chapter Text

Their relationship is not exactly a secret afterwards. The same way the two were blind about each other’s affections and real feelings, most of the cultivation world also do not even spare a thought to the possibility that the renowned Hanguang-Jun, and the Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation are ever more than friends. It is a funny scene for those who knew of the couple’s true relations whenever people scoff at Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian’s closeness, disregarding their connection as blinded trust towards each other.

Everyone has high hopes for Meilin’s Gen Lei – of his courtship, of his proposal, of his chance. He has to bite his tongue whenever they ask for their progress, giving the curious gossipers polite distractions instead.

Five months, two weeks and two days since he began his courtship he has the privilege to be one of the audience in the side of the Lanshi when Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian and Lan Sizhui head today’s lesson. It is about the power of music, and the why and how the GusuLan Clan have been using it in their cultivation. With Lan Qiren’s permission, the three retrieve a necklace from the Underworld Chambe. It has been captured in a recent night hunt, its amethyst pendant is possessed by darkness brought by fierce hatred the owner had towards the one who had gifted this to her before her death. Anyone who wears it around his neck would lose their consciousness and his body would be possessed to murder all the men in the vicinity.

The students almost fumble away from the displayed necklace when once released, the pendant jumps as if restrained. Unconcerned, Lan Wangji and Lan Sizhui take their places with their guqins -- a single step behind the possess objects and on either sides of the table the necklace is on. Wei Wuxian, standing up, is on the centre, and right behind the possessed pendant. The room is filled with awe when at the Yiling Patriarch’s nod, the three begin a melody that helps the spirit rest, the music flowing naturally.

Gen Lei watch in fascination as Lan Wangji strums his zither’s strings with featherlight finger, the right ones frequently pressing onto the right side of the guqin to add frequency and depth to the keys he releases. It is still a shock to the MeilinGen Sect Leader that he once used to yearn to have a glimpse of this man, and now, he’s given a free seat at the side to watch him. But he also knows that that’s all he can do: watch the man he could never have.

Letting Lan Wangji go has been one of the hardest things he has ever done in his life. Lan Wangji has occupied his mind for years-- his hero when he was on the verge of death, and his inspiration when the responsibility of taking care of thousands befell on his shoulders. Meeting Lan Wangji and earning his trust enough to be considered a friend has shown him the man beneath the stoic expression: a man of his words, a man who has grown up way too early, a man who is incredibly lonely, a man whose emotions are as deep as the oceans, a man who loves deeply. Gen Lei isn’t lying when he said that he has fallen for the Second Jade of Lan even more. However, at the same time, Gen Lei has also come to accept that his place isn’t beside Lan Wangji because they were meant to be. It is beside Lan Wangji because he has been chosen to be a friend – something Lan Wangji struggles to have because of his reserved character.

The MeilinGen Sect Leader once dreamed and wished for a happy ending with the man he loves. It might have been his fault that he wasn’t specific. After all, in some way, this friendship he has created with Lan Wangji is still a happy ending with the man he once loved.

Gen Lei isn’t a spare, and Lan Wangji’s heart already belongs to the man playing the flute in the middle of the room. Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian belonged with each other the moment their paths met as students of Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian is lucky to have deserved Lan Wangji’s devotion. Gen Lei wishes the Yiling Patriarch would take good care of the heart that Gen Lei would have never had a chance with from the very start.

The couple’s ‘son,’ Lan Sizhui is on the right, playing his instrument with the calibre of someone who has been trained under a master of this art. His fingers are efficient as they follow Lan Wangji’s lead. While the Second Jade of Lan plays as the deep base of the melody, Wei Wuxian has taken over the main tune, and Lan Sizhui is the resonation of the whole song – the second voice lulling the spirit to calm down and lay to rest. It is no wonder, truly, that the junior is a product of his fathers’ complementing personalities. He is a product of the love his adoptive parents continue to shower him with. They are not his real birth parents, but they treat him as their own, so he treats them as his own. It’s not about owing one another, it is merely natural for the three of them.

With that radiant happiness among the three, Gen Lei couldn’t begrudge them. Perhaps, next time, he’s going to dream and wish to find the same happiness they have found.

“Look, they don’t even need us here. They’re rubbing it on our face at this point. Should we go?” A voice grumbles beside him. Gen Lei blinks and turns his head to regard Nie Huaisang who is staring at the trio in front with an unimpressed look.

Gen Lei is half-certain that the man is talking to himself and is asking a rhetorical question, but he finds himself responding anyway, “That would be rude, Nie Huaisang.”

Huaisang puckers out his bottom lip, frowning. “Hmph. What’s rude is them rubbing their love on everyone’s face when they all know how single I am.”

The snort that the other’s whining elicits from him is involuntary. “Frankly, I don’t think they have noticed that the spirit has rested in peace.”

Jiang Cheng huffs a furious breath, hissing, “Look at them staring at each other! The junior disciples all look uncomfortable. I sat there twenty years ago, I know this is even worse.”

“I do remember seeing you sigh and roll your eyes a lot from where I stood in front. How fast time passes by that now you sit alongside us,” Lan Xichen remarks casually beside the YunmengJiang Sect Leader.

“Beside you, you mean?” Huaisang asks, looking over his shoulder with his face half concealed. His mirth is evident with his eyes though. Heat travels to the Older Jade of Lan’s and Jiang Cheng’s faces. Huaisang ducks under his table when Jiang Cheng reaches for the back of his collar to haul and beat him up. “I was kidding!”

Gen Lei laughs as the two Sect Leaders extract themselves from their seats, one running away from the other on the side of the room, hidden from the class behind a thick divider.

Meanwhile, in the main classroom, Sizhui is wondering whether he should let his parents know that they have finished the job. There’s a possibility the spirit rested, because it’s tired of watching Hanguang-Jun and the Yiling Patriarch, who wouldn’t stop glancing at each other.

In front of him, Jin Ling is nearing the possibility of gagging for real.

Jingyi catches his gaze intentionally and mouths, “Can we go?”

Zizhen, who has grown so calm during the session, topples down on his side once the music has lulled him to sleep. His sword clatters on the floor, and it breaks the thick sexual tension between Sizhui’s parents. Zizhen abruptly sits upright, wiping off drool from the corner of his mouth.

Lan Wangji rises with reddening ears and seals the formerly possessed necklace in a quankin pouch. He faces the uncomfortable students with a stoic expression. “Let’s move to the the various clans’ cultivation techniques. Well done, Sizhui, Wei Ying. Take your seats.”

Lan Sizhui hides his guqin magically, and pads over to his seat. He watches with growing embarrassment how his Dad throws himself onto the central desk, swinging his feet back and forth once seated. Hanguang-Jun takes his seat behind the desk and raises his eyes at the Yiling Patriarch. “Wei Ying.”

“What? You told me take my seat. I’m sitting here.”

The Second Jade of Lan doesn’t respond, retrieving a book and flipping through the pages.

Wei Wuxian, chaotic as ever, looks over his shoulders at his lover with a sulking expression. “Do you want me to go? You don’t want me near you? I can go.” Before Wei Wuxian manages to jump off the table, an arm hooks around his middle and keeps him in place. No matter how much he struggles, the arm is irremovable. After a minute of squirming, he resigns to his fate placing his hands over the arm. Giggling, he decides, “You know what? I’ll stay. It’s warmer here.”

Sizhui, face burning, hears Sect Leader Jiang from behind the divider on the side grunt, “Is killing them right outside of Cloud Recesses’ gate also against the rules?”

Lan Sizhui wakes up from a nightmare of a crampled place with the background burning. Sweat drips down his back and forehead despite the cold winter weather outside. Fear clings to his throat, but most of all, he remembers the agonizing loneliness he feels for figures in black and white when they suddenly disappeared from his vision.

He tries to calm his heart, but an irrational part of him wants to see them – alive, healthy and here. He knows they are, but he needs to see for himself. Therefore, despite breaking curfew, Sizhui puts on a thick coat over his robes and sneaks out of the dormitory and heads towards the direction of the jingshi.

Once he is in front of his parents’ door, hesitation stops his fist from knocking. It is almost eleven in the evening, but there is still light inside – shadows of a figure reading and another twinking something on his lap. He is over eighteen and he is still craving his parents over some nightmare, wouldn’t that be pathetic? Their silhouettes should be enough to comfort him, right? Shoving the negative voice away, he calls out, “Hanguang-Jun? Senior Wei?” His voice might have shaken a little and he doesn’t care.

The figures rise, and Sizhui tilts his head up once the jingshi’s doors slide open. In front of him are Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian clad only in their inner shirts and trousers, regarding him with open surprise. He stiffens, wondering if he has interrupted their peaceful evening, until both whisper, “Sizhui?” Their tone concerned.

So he lets himself look and see that his parents are indeed healthy, alive and here with him, that they all somehow survived everything that happened, that they are altogether again. Relief crashes through him in a rush, clouding his vision with tears. “Father, Dad,” He murmurs, emotional.  

Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji exchange a glance at each other, equally worried. “Sizhui, what’s the matter?” The Second Jade of Lan queries.

“Did something happen, A-Yuan?” The Yiling Patriarch adds, reaching to ruffle Sizhui’s hair.

Unable to control his emotions, Sizhui jumps and pulls both of them for a tight hug, tears escaping down his cheeks. They return the embrace with vigour, one a mostly silent company, humming a lullaby, and another murmuring soothing reassurances against his ear. Sizhui doesn’t need to tell them that he has had a nightmare or that despite his age, he needed their comfort. They are his parents and they understand.

Lan Xichen stumbles upon the scene on accident.

He has taught the classes for the morning, with his Uncle taking over for the afternoon. Lan Wangji has taken off for Chief Cultivator duties this morning, arriving back tomorrow while Wei Wuxian has decided to stay for an unknown reason. Lan Xichen lets them be, knowing that with their relationship established and in solid ground, the two would continue to be indepent individuals who are astoundinly strong when together, yet remain as two cultivators who could function when separated momentarily. With that thought, he searches for a peaceful place to practice his xiao since he has a vacant afternoon. Along his exploration for a solitude, he notices the footsteps on the snow of the path leading to the seclusion houses, so he follows after the trail in curiosity.

He freezes when he finds Wei Wuxian kneeling in front of the gentian house where Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji’s mother used to reside in until her death. The Yiling Patriarch is kneeling at the foot of the steps, talking to a person who no longer exists. “—Wei Wuxian, birth name Wei Ying. I used to be under the YunmengJiang Sect. I have been given the title of Yiling Patriarch. Basically, you can call me Wei Wuxian. Nice to meet you.” Wei Wuxian introduces, chuckling and scratching his nose in contemplation. “Mada’m Lan, I don’t want to bore you with retelling everything. I have heard of your children’s childhood from Zewu-Jun, and I respect you for being their mother even if you were caged inside this home. Most of all, I thank you for bringing Lan Zhan into this world. You would be proud of who he has become.”

Lan Xichen’s hand moves to cover his mouth, surprised beyond measure, when the man bows lowly, his forehead almost against the frosted floor to pay his respects. “Mada’m Lan, I am here to ask for your blessing. In the near future, I want to ask your youngest son’s hand for marriage. I know that we have just gotten together, but he completes me. No, scratch that. I have always been complete, but he made me realize my worth. He makes me see that I deserve to be loved. He makes me happy. So much so. And, I intend to show him how great my world has become since he’s come into it. I want to walk down that aisle, knowing we would be united legally – to kowtow thrice to worship the Heavens, our parents, and spouse. Neither of us have parents anymore, but I still wanted to introduce myself before I proposed to him. You deserve the recognition, and I already talked to Qinghe-Jun. Mada’m Lan,” Wei Wuxian’s voice is shaking when he finishes with, “I love Lan Zhan with everything I am. Thank you for bringing him into this world and giving me the opportunity to meet him.”

Lan Xichen remains where he is when Wei Wuxian stands up and turns around to depart. They face each other, equally surprised. Wei Wuxian hasn’t expected his presence, and he hasn’t expected the tear tracks on the other’s cheek. The Yiling Patriarch gulps anxiously. “Zewu-Jun.”

The Older Jade of Lan smiles gently, and salutes towards the Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian splutters in astonishment. “Please take care of Wangji, brother-in-law.”

Once he has straightened up, Wei Wuxian regards him with wide eyes full of uncertainty and doubt. But they gradually diminish as Lan Xichen’s words sink in. “Wait, brother-in-law?”

Words would never be enough and currently unnecessary, so Lan Xichen nods. Wei Wuxian’s face lights up brighter than the sun.

It isn’t a lie that Lan Wangji has Chief Cultivator duties to attend to. It puzzled him when Wei Wuxian has declined his offer for the latter to come along, but he is reassured with the wide smile his lover has given him before he left. Truthfully, he is relieved that he was left alone for this trip. He has an important errand that would be more efficiently done without Wei Wuxian by his side.

The flutter of purple robes against the pavement signals the arrival of the person he’s been waiting for. Jiang Cheng steps out of Lotus Pier, his gaze intense as he meets Lan Wangji’s eyes. They stare at each other with mutual antagonism before Jiang Cheng inclines his head to give his permission for entry.

Upon entrance, his host immediately proceeds towards the back, and Lan Wangji trails after him. They pass through familiar buildings, crossing a small bridge. The lotus leaves and flowers are floating on the waters on either sides of the bridge, giving life to the area. Then, they are standing in front of ancient doors. The signage on top reads: Jiang Clan Ancestral Hall.

Jiang Cheng looks at him over his shoulder and pushes open a door. “I’ll give you five minutes. Do not disrespect my parents and sister.”

With a nod, he crosses the threshold and ignores the door closing behind him. Following the proper etiquette taught to him, he lights up three sticks of incense, and kneels on the sitting mat in front of where Jiang Fengmian, Yu Ziyuan and Jiang Yanli’s plaques are.

Lan Wangji does kowtow twice, and sits up straight, hands on his lap. “Sect Leader Jiang, Madam Yu, Madam Jiang,” He greets to each of them. “I am Lan Wangji, the Second Young Master of the GusuLan Sect. I have recently gotten together with your adoptive son, Wei Wuxian.”

He pauses and lowers his eyes on the ground. “Thank you for adopting him. Thank you for sending him to Cloud Recesses for that lecture over twenty years ago. Thank you for letting me meet him. He misses you.” He swallows, and tries to dig his mind for what he should say next. Abundance of words are running through his mind, and he wants to tell them how Wei Wuxian has been, of what happened since they died, but his mind is screaming at him that it would be irrelevant and therefore, unnecessary. “He died in Nightless City eighteen years ago. I apologize I wasn’t able to prevent it – it will always be my biggest regret. He has come back a couple years ago. He’s fine, the same chaotic man he is.”

With a thundering heart, he bows down, his forehead ribbon touching the cold, hard floor. “I am here to ask for your blessing. I plan to ask him to marry me. It’s early, but I’ve always known it would be him until I die. He makes me happy. He’s the best thing that ever happened to me. Therefore, I want to do this right – to show the world that we are each other’s and no one can question it ever again.” He rises and looks up, smiling slightly despite himself. “I love Wei Ying. Thank you for raising him. Please bless and guide our future together.”

The moment he’s done, he does two more kowtows in silence. Satisfied, he goes to his feet and pulls open the door he has entered through.

Lan Wangji isn’t entirely surprised to see Jiang Cheng leaning against the other door, arms crossed. He steps out of the Ancestral Hall and casts him a side-glance, waiting for inevitable.

Jiang Cheng breaks the silence first, “You know, I’ve always hated you,” He snaps, furious. Lan Wangji doesn’t deem that with a response, it seems unnecessary. “I hate you so much!”

The other cultivator steps towards him until they are inches apart, the YunmengJiang Sect Leader’s face thunderous once their eyes have met. “I hate you. Not because of your title, not because of your prestige, not because of your cultivation ranking. I never hated you for the privileges you’ve worked hard for,” Jiang Cheng hisses. “I have begun to hate you when I realized that you’re taking my brother away from me!”

His stiffening shoulders prepared for a fight lower in surprise at the words.

“I hate you, because there are times I wondered that if he hadn’t met you then maybe we were still Twin Heroes of Yunmeng as he had once promised! Wei Wuxian was my brother first, and he was your friend second. How come he chose you over and over again when he barely knew you? How come you get to keep with by your side?!”

Lan Wangji silently accepts Jiang Cheng’s anger.

The other cultivator’s jaw clenches, grinding out, “Now, you’re even planning to marry him. Despite the crack in our relationship, Wei Wuxian will always be my brother. I would never ever understand what he sees in you. I would never comprehend why the universe have crossed your paths. But I can’t do anything about it. I can’t! I always can’t!” Zidian crackles with its wielder’s anger. “Lan Wangji, remember this, if you ever hurt him, I will throw you from that cliff and ensure you will never have your peace.”

“I will jump from it myself if I ever hurt Wei Ying.”

Jiang Cheng glares at him for a minute, breathing shallowly due to the anger brewing within him. Lan Wangji doesn’t dare mention the red-rimming eyes straight back at him. After an intense staring contest, the YunmengJiang Sect Leader closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. “Take good care of him.”

The words echo in his mind. “I have your blessing?”

It seems to be struggle for the other to nod. “We will never see eye to eye. We will always antagonise each other. But I do know you two are meant to be.” He raises a hand when Lan Wangji begins to open his mouth. “Don’t say ‘thank you.’ I don’t need it.”

Knowing when a conversation is over, Lan Wangji steps back and goes for a salute. Jiang Cheng returns it begrudgingly. He is about to disapper from the other cultivator’s view when Jiang Cheng grunts loudly, “Don’t expect me to ever call you brother-in-law.”

Lan Wangji doesn’t bother looking over his shoulder. “Good.”

With that as farewell, the Second Jade of Lan departs back to Cloud Recesses.

Wei Wuxian’s eyes flutter open at the sound of snow scrunching under booted feet. He tilts his head and sees Lan Wangji leaning over to stare back at him. It has only been a couple of days, but his heart soars at seeing the other back. He jumps to his feet and flings himself into Lan Wangji’s arms.

He is caught in a pair of warm arms, catching him whenever as once promised to him. Wei Wuxian wraps his legs around his partner’s waist and looks down at Lan Wangji since the boost has made him a bit taller. “I missed you,” He whispers, going for a kiss. It is reciprocated with much enthusiasm.

Lan Wangji pulls him closer, sharing their breaths. “Me too,” He admits. His cheeks have turned rosy, bringing attention to his rosy lips that are tempty Wei Wuxian for another kiss. Fingers lightly stroke his cheek, and he leans against the hand. “How are you?”

They separated for a couple of day, yet it felt like a month since he hasn’t heard that voice. A simple question makes him teary-eyed, and he hates how sentimental the winter season has made him. His lip trembles as he leans his their foreheads against each other. “I missed you so much,” He whispers, voice shaking. “How did I survive our one month separation before? How did I survive going away from you for so long? I missed you terribly.” It feels like his heart is taken away for two days, left in Lan Wangji’s hands.

His lover cradles his cheeks, kissing his eyelids. “Wei Ying. I’m here.”

He chuckles wetly, nuzzling their noses. With a large and thick coat over his shoulders, Lan Wangji looks cuddly and warm. He almost seem to be a huge huggable white bear. He blows on his beloved’s nose, and it makes the other scrunch his nose. He decides to nip it.

“Wei Ying.”

He goes for another.

Lan Wangji tries to extract revenge, but he pulls away hastily, dodging the other’s attempt. During intervals of the attacks, he goes and places kisses on the nearest place he could kiss. Lan Wangji tries to steal a bite as well, but just as he leans over, Wei Wuxian shoves them with everything he has. Unbalanced, they end up sprawled on their snow-covered front yard.

WeI Wuxian laughs, and nibbles Lan Wangji’s bottom lip. Heated, the Second Jade of Lan rolls them over until he has the Yiling Patriarch underneath him. Wei Wuxian lets himself be manhandled, tilting his head with defiance. “You left me for two days! No more kisses.”

“Then I’ll bite,” Lan Wangji declares, diving down to sink his teeth on Wei Wuxian’s exposed throat. His laughter turns into a shriek with the surprise attack. It transforms into a groan when his lover finds a particularly sensitive area. Suddenly, he’s being picked up.

“Eh! Lan Zhan, what—“

“Bed. Everyday means—“

“—Everyday,” He finishes with a laugh. “We missed last night, though.”

“We’ll have four rounds tonight to compensate then.”

Wei Wuxian can only splutter at the nonchalant response before the doors slide closed behind them and he is ravished before they even reached the bed.

Cloud Recesses is filled with buzzing, servants and cultivators alike are running around with things in their arms, throwing greetings here and there when they pass one another. It’s the third month of winter and the snow has given Cloud Recesses an even more of an eerie atmosphere. Time seems to have come to a standstill when one enters this place.

Wei Wuxian lifts his gaze from Chenqing when the doors of the jingshi slides open. Lan Wangji is standing outside both hands on the doorframe, regarding the Yiling Patriarch with his light golden eyes. The robes he has chosen for the day are the ones he has worn during the Sunshot Campaign, the illusion of broader shoulders make him even more regal. Without hanging sleeves, the slightly tight sleeves have made him seem more mature and even taller. The forehead ribbon around his forehead is perfectly aligned, and not a lock of his hair is astray – Wei Wuxian remembers the feeling of it, brushing that hair this morning. On top of Lan Wangji’s half bun is the tiny crown that started this whole thing. “Time to go?” He guesses with a smirk. He receives a nod.

Lan Wangji turns around, steps precise and confident as he leads them towards Cloud Recesses’ Conference Hall. Wei Wuxian follows silently, noting the tension in his partner’s shoulders. They stop in front of the already open doors, and the Yiling Patriarch roams his eyes. Everything looked almost the same from six months ago: the hall has been separated into two with the middle reserved for the aisle to welcome the guests. One side is occupied by the older and elder disciples, while the other is for the juniors and guests who are supposedly here for the lecture. There are seats near the door which are reserved for the cultivators coming along with today’s visitors. In the middle, up the steps are the seats intended for highest ranking cultivators of the GusuLan Sec: Lan Qiren is seated in the middle, Lan Xichen on the right and Lan Wangji’s on the left. Wei Wuxian doesn’t miss the extra seat behind but somewhat diagonal to Lan Xichen – the distance is enough they could glance at and whisper with each other once in a while.

They stride into the hall, and murmurs start to arise. He knows why. His constant presence by Lan Wangji’s side has always been a question, and has become an even bigger issue since rumors about Gen Lei’s courtship began. Separating at the foot of the steps, Wei Wuxian takes his seat behind Lan Xichen while Lan Wangji sits himself on his Uncle’s left. Silence reigns among them as they await the arrival of their visitors.

It doesn’t take long. In ten minutes, a GusuLan cultivator appears by the door, announcing, “The MeilinGen Sect has arrived!” He then steps aside to let the leader of their guests enter.

Gen Lei advances with the confidence of someone who wouldn’t let anyone question him. Copper eyes staring straightforward, he folds an arm behind his back while the other holds onto Shexian, foregoing its usual place at his back. He is adorned in an exquisite sunset orange robes, with scatters of maroon and violet emitting the feel of different stages of twilight. His hair piece is the same as the one he has worn in his first arrival: a thunder rotating around his bun. Three rows of cultivators tail him, all wearing their usual uniform. Once he is few paces by the foot of the steps, Gen Lei goes for a bow, cupping his head with his head hung low, each movement deliberate.

Automatically, the four of them all rise up to return the salute.

Once the doors close, Gen Lei straightens up with a smile of reassurance. The man they have met six months seems to have grown so much. He is almost the same age as Lan Xichen, and this is the time they could see it clearly – maturity evident in his face. “I extend my gratitude for the warm welcome. I have arrived to trouble you yet again. Cloud Recesses must be exhausted of my presence.”

Lan Xichen chuckles and shakes his head. “Young Master Gen, you have a jade token of passage. Cloud Recesses has acknowledged you.”

Gen Lei’s eyes land on the token by his sash belt. His eyes crinkle at seeing it. “Indeed,” He sighs, then looks up at them again. “Six months ago, I have stepped into Cloud Recesses for the first time to request for allegiance, which you have accepted and honoured until this very day. Six months ago, I have also proposed to the Second Young Master Lan, asking of his hand for marriage. It was refused. I, then, proposed to give our compatibility a trial by courtship for half a year. It is astounding how that time frame seemed to have flew by hastily.”

Wei Wuxian, despite himself, feels himself stiffen when Gen Lei turns his head to address Lan Wangji personally. “Thank you for giving me that six months, Lan Wangji. I stand before you once again, after fulfilling my promise for half a year, asking whether you have changed your mind about my proposal for marriage.” There’s a tremor in his voice.

It feels like he is back to six months ago. He remembers everything as if it was yesterday. A stranger strode in and asked for Lan Wangji to marry him. He shows his genuine intentions by spilling the deep reason he has decided to pursue Hanguang-Jun. At the proposal of courtship, Lan Wangji had looked at Wei Wuxian with an expression that he recently realized were begging him to stop Lan Wangji and Lan Wangji’s idiotic decision. There was also resignation when Wei Wuxian failed to understand him, and then anger when Lan Wangji felt that he wasn’t important enough to the Yiling Patriarch because the latter was just standing there, letting everything happen. He also remembers the way his heart seemed to have shattered when Lan Wangji had said ‘yes,’ accepting the tiny crown that currently adorns his hair. Heavens, we were both such dumbasses.

Lan Wangji stares back at Gen Lei with an apprehensive expression. He takes a deep breath and casts a side-glance towards Wei Wuxian. This time, the latter openly pouts and shakes his head. Lan Wangji seems almost amused at his blatant rejection of the idea. The Second Jade of Lan rises from his seat and descends the stairs until he is right in front of Gen Lei. “Gen Lei, thank you. Thank you for your patience of courting me for half a year. Thank you for the friendship we have created through this time frame. Thank you for asking again.”

The MeilinGen Sect Leader smiles, understanding. “But?” He prompts gently.

“But my heart belongs to another, and it will be forever be his. I can’t accept your proposal. I am sorry,” Lan Wangji continues, clenching the fists on his sides. Wei Wuxian stares at him sadly, knowing that despite his devotion to Wei Wuxian and his resolution with his decision – Lan Wangji has always detested being the cause of pain of those he considers important.

The room erupts with murmurs, people mostly curious who could have captured Lan Wangji’s attention enough to reject such a great man. Gen Lei closes his eyes and sighs, composing himself. When he re-opens his copper eyes, there is nothing but kindness in them. “Why are you sorry? Heavens, Lan Wangji. You never ever have to apologize for choosing your heart. I started this courtship knowing that there is a chance of rejection. I will not lie – it hurts. And it will continue to do so for a while, but I have no regrets trying. I met who you truly are, and that is enough.”

Lan Wangji frowns, determined. “Gen Lei is—my friend.”

Wei Wuxian smiles proudly at his beloved’s effort for opening up. Gen Lei seems taken aback at the sudden declaration.

“Gen Lei is a friend. I don’t have many of those. I stand before you because we are equals—wishi--no--hoping we can remain as friends even after this,” The Second of Jade of Lan says, emotionless. Wei Wuxian could see a hint of nervousness in the furrow of brows – he’s proud of learning and recognizing the tiniest hints and tricks behind Lan Wangji’s stoic face ever since they had gotten together.

It doesn’t take long for Gen Lei to nod. “Lan Wangji, our Sects will continue their allegiance. You and I will remain friends. Nothing changes. Nothing needs to change. We just grew and learned. We’re fine, alright?”

Relieved, Lan Wangji nods. Then, he takes steps to the centre to address their audience. “Let it be known that my rejection of Meilin’s Gen Lei’s proposal is out of personal interest. Meilin is and will continue to be our friend and partner; it is a breathtaking Sect and people must begin to acknowledge its people, its leader and its cultivation. Whatever that happened today and in here will never deter us from our duties. I am Lan Wangji, Hanguang-Jun and the Second Young Master Lan, and I have chosen to follow my heart.”

His impromptu speech is met with a loud and long round of applause, the MeilinGen cultivators pleased of the gentle rejection that transpired, and of the acknowledgement of their importance. The GusuLan Sect are filled with pride for their Lan Wangji who has handled everything perfectly, and continues to show he deserves his titles and the respect people have for him.

Once the noise and excitement have gone down, Gen Lei is given a seat beside Nie Huaisang, who has decided to see the spectacle himself – secretly telling Wei Wuxian he needed to see everything and that he would handle the rumors so that neither Lan Wangji nor Gen Lei would end with bad lighting after today. Jiang Cheng has also come along, insisting it’s to check on and pick up Jin Ling since the lectures would also end in few days’ time. 

Lan Wangji looks around, his presence loud enough, Once he has captured everyone’s attention again, he says, “Everyone,” Here he pauses, contemplating his words. “I am now resigning from my post as the Chief Cultivator, effective next week. My brother will take over my place from thereon.”

Everyone seems surprised with the announcement except for the people seated in front of the crowd. Lan Qiren has been given advanced notice and has given his approval. After all, Lan Wangji has accepted the position two years ago for the hopes that Lan Xichen could grieve and heal for the meantime. At the same time, there were changes he wanted to implement and being the Chief Cultivator gave him the connection and power to instill these changes that were primary about the well-beings of minor clans, of the studies of people from small villages if they wanted to become cultivators, of the plans necessary to overthrow corrupted people of power that resided in the hidden Sects the previous Chief Cultivators did not care about.

Lan Xichen has accepted the duty with an open heart – prepared for the obligation placed on his shoulders, and relieved by Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian’s promised support in the background.  Wei Wuxian is thrilled with the announcement when Lan Wangji has told him about it. He knows of the struggles his lover faces in this position especially since he has never been interested in politics. He has watched Lan Wangji pull late nights when necessary just to locate and innovate solutions for even the simplest of problems for other Sects. He has seen Lan Wangji drain most of his energy to travel miles and miles to attend to issues in person. He has witnessed the exhaustion in his beloved’s eyes when Lan Wangji is forced to interact with people all day when he has never been one for social activities. Lan Wangji is only one person and now, he has chosen to rest. Wei Wuxian is nothing but supportive of this decision.

There are buzzing, mostly from the Elders who have had high hopes of Lan Wangji’s reign – hoping that he would remain in that position for years. They seem to be delusional enough to believe Lan Wangji would die while Chief Cultivator.

“I thought he would have survived for another decade. He didn’t even reach three years.”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes roam around the room, searching for the owner of the voice. Lan Xichen catches his eyes, the Yiling Patriarch’s disbelief mirrored in the Older Jade of Lan’s dark gold eyes.

“He’s Lan Wangji. The position has always been more suitable to his older brother. He’s a prominent cultivator, but he’s way too quiet and reserved.”

Lan Xichen whirls his head, jaw tightening at the slander his brother is receiving. It seems to have come from Elders who are too busy gossiping to realize they are being watched.

“…Quiet until someone opposes his beliefs! Did you forget what happened during before the Bloodbath in Nightless City?”

Lan Wangji, with his back turned on Wei Wuxian, stiffens on his feet with the mention of that fateful event. Lan Sizhui has also started to peer through the crowd to find out the gossipers, irritation evident in his expression.

“Do I look like I forgot? I almost died by his hands! Heavens and earth, I sometimes wonder why he wasn’t thrown out of the Lan Clan.”

Lan Jingyi’s mouth hangs open at the statement. He looks a second away from pouncing any of the Elders nearest to him or across the room from him.

“He’s one of the Twin Jades of Lan, what do you think will be the hearsays if they threw him out?” One scoffs mockingly.

Jiang Cheng, despite his perseverance towards apathy regarding Lan Wangji, has also looked to the side to glare at the huddle of Elders who have become the centre of attention unawarely. Jin Ling looks entirely unimpressed beside him. Nie Huaisang is fanning himself, rolling his eyes.

“He has only reached this far because of the GusuLan Sect’s teaching. I don’t know where he’s gotten the confidence to be arrogant.”

Gen Lei has stood up from his seat, stopping at Lan Qiren’s eyes on him. The Grand Master Lan is silently watching and listening, a neutral expression on his face.

“Being courted must have distracted him. You heard his speech – he has decided to follow his heart. Like father, like son after all. Whoever he marries might turn up like his mother!”

And that’s what snaps his patience. Wei Wuxian rises from his seat, slamming the butt of Suibian’s sheathe onto the ground, the sound thundering and echoing all around the hall. All conversation desists. Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder at him, asking him what he’s planning, but he’s already stepping down the steps, tapping one end of Chenqing against his shoulder. “Try whispering louder, I think there are people at the back who didn’t hear you,” He says, eyes landing on the huddle of Elders on the left side of the room – glaring back at him. “You talk and talk, but did any of you volunteer to be the Chief Cultivator? Would any of you survive two and half years in this fucking hell of a job?”

None of the Elders warrants him a response.

“You keep on opening your mouth, but not your brains. Did any of you ever accept that your beliefs were wrong, changed courses and held onto it because you know they are right?” At the silence, he huffs a mocking laugh. “Oh-hoh, can’t speak now, can you? You should have been grateful Lan Zhan didn’t kill you during the Bloodbath in Nightless City. Trust me, he’s capable to do so. You keep on wondering why he hasn’t been thrown out. I want to see how you’ll survive if he left GusuLan Sect. You’re nothing compared to him. You know it, but won’t accept it.”

An Elder stands up in anger, but Bichen has already unsheathed and has pointed at him. “Wei Wuxian, you’re nothing but a freeloader here! How dare you speak at us this way?”

Wei Wuxian smirks and pretends to be shocked. “Oh, did I forget to tell you? We have a third announcement to make.” He steps to stand alongside Lan Wangji in the middle of the room. “Lan Zhan and I are lovers.”

There is outrage and disbelief. The juniors do not have much complaints, because they were smart enough to see the signs. The Elders seem to have closed brains, and couldn’t comprehend what he just said even if the evidence was in front of them. The shouts cease abruptly, their lips tightly shut. When Wei Wuxian looks at Lan Wangji for confirmation, his beloved shakes his head.

Lan Xichen has fallen into step beside them. “I will extend that Silencing Spell if necessary so keep quiet. From next week onwards, I will be the Chief Cultivator whether you like it or not. If you had any objection, feel free to tell me, but be prepared to be rebuked with facts and statistics. Secondly, as the Sect Leader I want everyone who had spouted slanders against my brother to line up and kneel later in front of the Discipline Wall – remain there under the snow until curfew.” He ignores the non-coherent protests. “Lastly, Wangji and Young Master Wei are indeed lovers. We hear your objections, taken them into consideration, and decided to ignore them. They are lovers. It’s the end of it, do not force your opinion at us.”

“Jiang Cheng, I know this is a hot view for you, but your mouth is hanging open,” Nie Huaisang comments. It’s followed by a yelp. “I was just telling the truth! You didn’t have to stomp on my foot so hard!”

“Huaisang,” Gen Lei admonishes patiently.

“Oops, sorry,” The QingheNie Sect Leader murmurs with an embarrassed giggle.

One of the Elders forces his lips open, spits blood on the floor and points at Wei Wuxian with disgust. “There is a rule on the wall that states never to befriend evil and do not talk to Wei Wuxian.”

“Wei Ying practices a different cultivation, that doesn’t mean he’s evil,” Lan Wangji retorts. “You speak so ill of others, doesn’t that make you evil?”

“Lan Wangji, how dare you—“

Lan Qiren cuts the Elder off by calmly situating himself beside Lan Xichen and addressing the issue. “There is no more rule that states we can’t talk to Wei Wuxian. Have none of you wondered why no one is punished even if they did interact with him?”

Now that he thought about it…

“There is! It’s even on the Discipline Wall!” One Elder growls.

“It has disappeared all of a sudden weeks ago. See for yourself.”

So the Elder does, walking out and disappearing for few minutes. He arrives with a reddening face, and sits down with furious eyes. He couldn’t question Lan Qiren even if he wanted to – the man is the Grand Master, and he has established his dislike of Wei Wuxian enough. The Yiling Patriarch, curious how that happened, looked at his son for answers, because despite his charming personality, Sizhui is a resourceful source of answers and gossips.

Wei Wuxian raises an eyebrow, It’s gone? Who took that rule down?”

Sizhui has a knowing look. He subtly gestures for Wei Wuxian to keep it a secret before quickly glancing up at Lan Qiren. Lan Qiren.

Wei Wuxian would have gaped more at the information if Lan Qiren hasn’t spoken again to end the discussion. “Everyone gathered here, say these and nothing more or less once people have asked you. My youngest nephew, Wangji, has decided to reject Young Master Gen for personal reasons. However, this doesn’t deter GusuLan Sect and MeilinGen Sect’s alliance and friendship. Also, do not forget that Wangji himself declares Young Master Gen as a friend. Since none of you is his friend, this is an easy thing to remember.” Oh, wow, the brutality of this man’s tongue. “Secondly, Wangji has resigned from his post as Chief Cultivator, passing the position to Xichen. This is not because he’s incompetent nor has he become distracted. He has done enough and more than expected for two and half years of his reign. None of you would have been able to achieve a third of what he’s managed to do.”

Wei Wuxian stands straighter when Lan Qiren turns to glance at him briefly.

“Lastly, Wangji and Wei Wuxian are together. I have high hopes that history wouldn’t repeat itself. Knowing them, it mostly likely wouldn’t. Now, shut your mouths. This discussion is over.”

With a flair, Lan Qiren turns around with a flick of the ends of his robes. He returns to his seat and picks up his tea cup as if he hasn’t told dozens of his own clan’s elders to piss off. Lan Xichen, hiding his amusement with a cough, gives him a discrete nod before sitting himself back on behind his desk.

With the discussion adjourned, the small banquet begins. Wei Wuxian looks around, sees the still imminent tension in the room and decides to go back to his seat. His finger is twisting around the ends of his hair sash as he sits down. He blinks when he realizes that Lan Wangji has remained standing in front of them and their audience.

The Yiling Patriarch has no warning whatsoever, the cup of water in his hand clattering onto his table when he drops it. He doesn’t care though, his mouth hanging open when Lan Wangji turns around to face him, the ends of his pristine white robes billowing and trailing behind him when he goes to one knee. In a flick of his expert wrist, his forehead ribbon unties, leaving his forehead bare.

Once again, silence befalls to everyone in the Conference Hall, watching the scene unfold with interest.

Wei Wuxian could only gape as his beloved presents his forehead ribbon towards him, the tails hanging while the cold, cloud-design metal lays on top of his palms. Lan Wangji’s posture is straight, his confidence unwavering, eyes determined and voice certain when he declares, “I, Lan Wangji, Hanguang-Jun of the GusuLan Sect wish to declare my intention to marry Wei Wuxian—Wei Ying.” Wei Wuxian’s heart wants to crawl out of mouth and jump up and down in giddiness. He would have let it, but Lan Wangji is apparently not done. “I do not need a reason. I do not need persuasion. I want to marry you, because you are the brightest point of my life. You are my life.”

“How come he’s even better at proposing than me?” Gen Lei grumbles lowly. “Is there anything he can’t do?”

“Drink liquor,” Huaisang and Jiang Cheng quip back.

His silence must have gone for too long, because Lan Wangji has turned concerned. Almost nervous when he prompts, “Wei Ying?”

Wei Wuxian finds himself laughing. Laughing hysterically. Lan Wangji’s shoulders have sagged at the middle of his sudden laughter, misinterpreting it, so he quickly shakes his head. “No, no! I mean yes! I’ll marry you, Lan Zhan!” He shouts, going to his feet and helping Lan Wangji stand up. “But damn it, you ruined my plan!”

Lan Wangji’s head tilts to a side adorably. “Ruined your plan?”

Hands on top of his hair, he removes the knots of his hair sash and pulls it free from his half ponytail. The red contrasts with everything white that surrounds Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian waves it, watching the tails flutter and brush against the tails of Lan Wangji’s own forehead ribbon. “I was planning to propose to you today as well! I also wanted to offer my hair sash as a symbol of my undying love!” He pouts at Lan Wangji’s fractionally widened eyes. “I even prepared a speech, but I forgot it because of your surprise proposal.”

“Wei Ying will marry me?”

Wei Wuxian pokes his lover’s nose. “Of course, dummy. That’s why I wanted to propose to you, isn’t it? I, Wei Wuxian, want to declare my intention to marry Lan Wangji of the GususLan Sect.”

Lan Wangji doesn’t hesitate, nodding. “Mn.”

Wei Wuxian, bursting with affection, retrieves Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon and makes his lover turn around. Painstakingly, he wraps the GusuLan Sect headband around his lover’s forehead, meticulously ensuring that it’s not crooked and that the cloud-designed metal is right on the centre. In turn, he lets Lan Wangji take his hair sash and wrap it neatly around his half ponytail until it’s holding the whole hairstyle together.

Tying their sacred ribbons for each other is a symbol of their incoming union – of their irrevocable intertwined lives. His eyes linger a little on the forehead ribbon he has just tied, realizing the weight of the gift he is given. To be allowed to tie it himself, he is going to be Lan Wangji’s spouse! He is going to be able to tie that headband for his beloved for the rest of their life. He feels like crying again. It has taken them almost two decades, and to think this is where they’ll end up. Wei Wuxian has never been happier to be given a second chance. The tears threaten to fall. Lan Wangji gazes at him with eyes filled with understanding. It has taken them so long, yet here they are.

Once both of them are done, they face the gaping crowd. They await the objections and slander, knowing it is inevitable. Instead, Gen Lei stands up, clapping his hands. He is followed by Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen. Then, Lan Sizhui and Lan Jinyi rise to cheer them on. Startled out of their stunned silence, the others follow suit, surrounding Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian with an ovation and cheers – even if some stubbornly remain seated and silent with their unheard and ignored protests.

Wei Wuxian reaches for Lan Wangji’s hand and intertwines their hands. Intertwined hands, intertwined ribbons, intertwined paths and intertwined hearts. No matter what life would throw at them, their fate is sealed. It is to be with each other.

Shijie, I’m engaged and will marry the love of my life soon. Can you believe I ended up with Lan Zhan? I wish you were here to celebrate it with us, but don’t worry about me anymore, you can rest now. I’m happy and I will always have you in my heart.

Chapter Text

Planning a wedding is not an easy feat. The word about their engagement spreads like a wildfire, reaching all sorts of Clans and Sects in days. It is not surprising that many are against it, but what could anyone possibly do? Defeat Lan Wangji to push some sense into his brain? Wei Wuxian would pay however much to see anyone try that strategy – he has no doubt Lan Wangji would turn them into dust in minutes. But then again, Wei Wuxian will beat them to pulp if necessary.

The ceremony of transferring the post of Chief Cultivator from one brother to another has also garnered attention, filling Cloud Recesses with audience and visitors on the day itself. It was a boring ceremony, and Wei Wuxian would never understand the appeal of watching it. But he remained, witnessing with his own eyes as Lan Wangji stepped back from the dais to welcome Lan Xichen as the new Excellency of the cultivation world. The latter, however, grasped his younger brother’s hand and pulled him back in front alongside him – announcing to everyone that his reign wouldn’t be successful if he wouldn’t have his Lan Wangji by his side. Wei Wuxian wanted to hug Zewu-Jun then, filling up with pride at seeing the Twin Jades of Lan well-respected and celebrated for their brotherhood, for their bond that has overcame several battles, for their hard work to garner the titles they have earned, and for being the people who would lead the cultivation world towards peace and harmony. If the Twin Jade of GusuLan Sect couldn’t, who could?

While their wedding is being planned, Lan Wangji has taken part as the background help of Lan Xichen’s post as GusuLan Sect Leader. The two positions’ duties are decided to be split between the brothers – one the voice of logic, and another the voice of empathy; it is a good combination, if Wei Wuxian could say so himself. Along with this, Wei Wuxian has been granted permission to teach the classes in Cloud Recesses, most of them are regarding night-hunting, talismans and innovation of new devices to capture preys and detect dark energy.

Spring arrives with grandeur, melting the snow all around to welcome the blooming blossoms. The onslaught of colour have astounded him. Cloud Recesses has always seemed like a place for the gods and goddesses, untouchable to mere mortals, and shielded with mist that hides mysteries behind it. However, during the spring season, it isn’t ashamed of the colours that constrasted against the white and sky blue structures in the place.

Exhausted with reading his students’ papers, Wei Wuxian heads towards the Back Mountain to visit their fluffy bunnies. Sighing, he seats himself on one of the rocks and picks up a white rabbit to scratch it between its ears. He blinks when he sees the white ribbon tied around the rabbit’s forehead. Master Yan Li has done the same years ago, but the magical ribbons slowly disappered along with her. However, the rabbit in his hands has another ribbon around its forehead when that hasn’t been there when he last visited.

He looks down at the ones left on the ground, and notices that all of them also have the same ribbon neatly tied around their foreheads. His eyes catch the several black rabbits he snuck in weeks ago, one of their ears also have red tiny ribbons tied around them. He picks one up. One palm holds a white rabbit, the other occupied with a dark one. It doesn’t take a genius to realize what they symbolize.

Wei Wuxian keeps on falling harder with Lan Wangji every single day. He doesn’t know if his heart has the capability to hold onto this much adoration for one man, but it’s surviving. Chuckling, he nuzzles each of the rabbit’s nose and plops them onto his lap, letting them crunch some leaves while cuddling. Wei Wuxian tilts his head towards where his donkey sits, chewing dewy grasses like a royalty it thinks it is. “Oy, ‘Lil Apple, when did Lan Zhan find the time to dress up our bunnies?”

‘Lil Apple looks at him with an expression annoyed for being asked a stupid question. It reminds him of Jiang Cheng’s irritated look.

The Yiling Patriarch rolls his eyes at his donkey, and lowers his gaze at the rabbits on his lap. Smile widening, he touches the tiny ribbons. In few months, he and Lan Wangji would exchange forehead ribbons while adorning red robes with veils, walking down the aisle accompanied by the most important people in their lives. If he had told his younger self about this, younger Wei Wuxian would have laughed his ass off, declaring he would never want to be married in the GusuLan Sect.

He lifts the dark bunny and pokes it nose. It seems unimpressed. “Look at me now. Actually marrying into the GusuLan Sect. Who would have thought, huh, little rabbit? Who would have thought the man I’m meant to be with is the man who I once thought would never marry because of his personality?”

The white bunny has chosen to munch on the ends of his sleeve, looking up at the dark bunny he has lifted away. Laughing, he deposits them beside each other again. Content, the two rabbits roll on top of each other and go to sleep in that position.

The sound of footsteps alert him of another’s arrival. Smiling, he tilts his head up, expecting Lan Wangji behind him. It is, and his heart soars. Without prompt, the Second Jade of Lan leans down to plant a kiss on his lips even if they were upside down. He giggles into the kiss. “Lan Zhan,” He greets once they pull apart, breathless.

There’s a phantom of a smile on his beloved’s face. “Wei Ying.” He steps around the bunnies, hoping not to disturb them, and seats himself beside the Yiling Patriarch. “It’s spring.”

“It is,” He breathes, inhaling the smell of the flowers surrounding them. The meadow has sprouted varieties of wildflowers, enclosing the place with life. “This is breathtaking.”

“It is.”

When he turns to look at his companion, he finds Lan Wangji staring at him. Heat travels to his face at the affection on his lover’s face. “Why are you staring?”

“Wei Ying is breathtaking.”

Heavens, I can only endure so much. This man will be the death of me.

Wei Wuxian is not prepared with the compliment, hitting Lan Wangji lightly on the arm. “Lan Zhan! Give me warnings, my heart can’t take your sudden compliments!”

He receives a blink, then a tilted head. “But Wei Ying is breathtaking.”

God damn it.

With the bunnies out of his lap, he springs onto his knees, cupping Lan Wangji’s cheeks in his. He punctuates his next words by squeezing his beloved’s cheeks. “Lan Zhan, stop. My heart isn’t ready. What happened to that silent man who always ignored me? Was he just a persona?”

Lan Wangji lets himself be manhandled. “I can tell everything to you now. No more holding back. You deserve compliments. I mean all of them.” As if his words weren’t enough, he twists his head a little to plant a kiss on Wei Wuxian’s palm.

Defeated with the affection he’s showered with, Wei Wuxian’s hands grow laxed. “Lan Zhan, who gave you the right to be so cute, huh? Stop being adorable.”

Despite the expressionless face, Lan Wangji is sulking when he retorts, “Quit calling me cute. I’m not. Wei Ying is. The bunnies are.”

Smirking, he reaches upward to lightly tug Lan Wangji’s earlobes. “Tell that to me when your ears aren’t crimson from my teasing,” He joshes, scrunching his nose back at Lan Wangji’s slightly annoyed face. “Oh no~ He’s getting angry. My Lan Zhan is getting angry. It makes him even cuter, and I can’t stop teasing him. Look at these reddening ears!”

Wei Wuxian jumps away when Lan Wangji goes for a lunge at him. Laughing, he dodges the attack, hiding behind the nearest tree. Lan Wangji, stubborn man he is, goes to his feet as well and watches him like a hawk. A slightly movement from the other makes him hop away again, his beloved missing him by an inch.

Another side step and he’s hidden behind the tree beside the first one, snickering at Lan Wangji’s unimpressed expression. Several more minutes of chasing after each other ends when he manages to climb on top of a branch, then with his legs hooked around the branch and his lower body ensuring his safety, he slides down his upper body from the tree. He comes face to face with Lan Wangji, albeit upside down. “Hi,” He cheekily greets.

Lan Wangji dives for a peck on his lips, the touch chaste and light. “Hello.”

The kiss reminds him of when he has woken on the same meadow, Lan Wangji arriving right at the same moment. His lips felt strange back then – moist and touched. He always thought it was because of a dream. Eyes widening, he points at his future husband. “Ah! It was you!”

The Second Jade of Lan maneuvers him down the tree effortlessly, letting Wei Wuxian wrap his legs around his middle, and his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck. Lan Wangji’s neck and cheeks turn crimson, guilty.

Suspicions confirmed, Wei Wuxian throws his head back to laugh. “Waah. So that’s what you meant when you said you stole something from me! Lan Zhan, how naughty, stealing a kiss from an asleep Yiling Patriarch.” He kisses his lover’s nose, delighted. “I thought I was dreaming. I’m glad to find out I wasn’t.”

“I thought it was our first and last,” Lan Wangji admits.

Over twenty years Lan Wangji must have wanted to kiss him. Over twenty years Lan Wangji has wanted to tell him. Over twenty years Lan Wangji has waited for him – sixteen of it he was left behind, grieving. Wei Wuxian wants to ask why he is considered this special, but there’s no need for such questions anymore. They love each other, that is enough.

“My Lan Zhan is the cutest,” He reiterates, drowning in a pair of light honey gaze. “The feared Hanguang-Jun has an endearing side, and only I could see it~”

“I do not.”

“You do!” He insists, squeezing his lover’s head against his chest. “Heavens, I want to squeeze you so hard until we’re basically one person.”

Lan Wangji nods, attention brought at Wei Wuxian’s pale throat. “Not cute,” He persists and sinks his teeth into the skin, startling the Yiling Patriarch. “Wei Ying’s reactions are,” He mumbles, nibbling the skin in between his lips.

The bite surprised him, the nibbles are making him ticklish though. He sniggers, shoving his lover’s head away. “Lan Zhan, you’re tickling me!” He wheezes. Lan Wangji decides to ignore him, focusing on licking a sensitive area behind Wei Wuxian’s ear while one of his hands sneaks beneath the Yiling Patriarch’s robes. “Waah, we’re in the Back Moun—oh.” Lan Wangji has decided to lick his earlobe, and he is melting into the man’s arms, trembling beneath a skillful mouth and hand.

Submitting to the ministrations, he places his chin on his future husband’s shoulder, wanting to try something new, “Lan-Er-Gege,” He whispers right beside Lan Wangji’s ear.

He lets out a shriek when they topple forward, rolling around the meadow and wildflowers, and landing on a familiar clearing. Thankfully, most of their rabbits are out of sight this time. Lan Wangji’s panting when he pulls away, his neck upwards are flushed. His voice is dangerously low when he grinds out, “Don’t call me that.” It doesn’t seem to be angry. More like…flustered. Wei Wuxian also ends up blushing.

Shamelessly, he teases Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon, twirling it around a finger. “Why not, Lan-Er-Gege? Don’t you like it?” He leans forward, their noses touching. Smirking, he murmurs, “I like calling you Lan-Er-Gege, Lan-Er-Gege. Try and stop—oomph!” Head lightly hitting the soft ground beneath him, Wei Wuxian startles when his wrists are suddenly tied with Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon.

Oh, shit.

“Lan Zhan, Lan Zha—“ He gets cut off with a fierce kiss. He resurfaces breathless. Lan Wangji’s eyes are dilated staring at him, and he seems to try regaining his control yet failing. Wei Wuxian likes the look on him, but he is not prepared for the consequences it would bring on his body. “Lan-Er-Gege, calm down. I made us flower crowns! Look!” He magics them towards his hands, waving them frantically. Lan Wangji’s face is getting to him, and he isnt entirely certain if he wanted them to be known as exhibitionists by those who would accidentally pass by.

Lan Wangji’s eyes land on the flower crowns made of wildflower dandelions. The yellow blossoms are eyecatching and are expertly woven into a crown, not a single gap between them. A mischievous glint passes through Lan Wangji’s eyes, and Wei Wuxian finds himself getting incredibly hot when his lover carefully places the flower crowns over their heads, and proceeds to ravish him.

Lan Wanji watches in amusement as Wei Wuxian signs the bottom of the last letter and sags onto the low table with a groan. “Lan Zhan, my hands hurt! My hands hurt from all these writing, and I was just signing them. How did you finish writing fifty of the letters themselves without screaming in frustration?!”

Rising from his workstation, he retrieves the last batch beside his future husband to combine them with the rest. He lets Wei Wuxian stare at him as he methodically fold the letters into three equal sizes, then sealing them with golden GusuLan Sect’s wax seal. Once he has finished, he gathers them and places them in a small open box in the corner of the room – ready to be sent out tomorrow.

When he turns, he sees Wei Wuxian half asleep with his head on his folded arms on top of the table. Smiling slightly, he taps his lover’s cheek. “Wei Ying. Go to bed.” At his future husband’s non-coherent protest, Lan Wangji scoops him up into his arms to walk down at their bed. The one in the common has been abandoned ever since they have gotten together – wanting to be asleep clinging onto each other.  

He seats Wei Wuxian on the bed, retrieving the jade comb his lover gifted to him to gently brush the Yiling Patriarch’s hair so that he wouldn’t wake up with tangles. He runs the comb down the long, dark locks, focusing on the knotted areas due to Wei Wuxian’s lazy way of drying his hair.

Satisfied with his work, he proceeds to remove his lover’s outer robes and prepare him for sleep.

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian mumbles, cracking his eyelids slightly. There’s a lazy smile on his face. “We’re done with the invitations?”

Lan Wangji nods. “Mn.” Adoration blooms in his chest at his lover’s sleepy chuckle.

The Yiling Patriarch tilts his head up at him. “Waahhh. We’re really getting married,” He says in between a yawn. “We’re getting married~”

The adorable awed statement elicits a soft, short laugh out of him. “We are,” He agrees, sitting beside his future husband to tend to Wei Wuxian’s feet, picking up a foot and massaging it firmly. Wei Wuxian has been out with the juniors for most of the day, traveling to learn about the rumoured fierce spirit lurking to feed on children. Lan Wangji takes a mental note to search for a more comfortable pair of shoes for his lover – his current ones are quite old.

Wei Wuxian sighs and melts onto his chest, almost purring. “Lan Zhan, I’m so sleepy. Can I go to sleep?”

Lan Wangji nods, circling his index and middle finger around his beloved’s ankle. “Mn.”

A yawn later, his beloved continues on purring against his chest. “Lan Zhan, can we also adopt Jingyi, he’s a riot and I adore that kid.” He yawns again. “Sleepy.”

“We can. You can ask him.”

Wei Wuxian hums as Lan Wangji picks up the other foot to give it the same attention. “We might as well adopt Zizhen and Gen Lei’s cousin as well. Oh, maybe even Jin Ling.” He giggles, wrapping his arms around Lan Wangji. “We will have five adopted sons. Five little ducklings.”

Lan Wangji doesn’t respond, letting the other fall asleep while he continues his massage.

But, his partner isn’t done, sighing, “I love you, Lan Zhan. Good night.” Clinging tightly around the the Second Jade of Lan, an adoring smile appears on his face before he succumbs to slumber.

Endeared, Lan Wangji has to take a deep breath not to combust at that moment. He leans down to plant a kiss on Wei Wuxian’s forehead. “I love you too, Wei Ying. See you tomorrow.”

Wei Wuxian has never thought Jiang Cheng would visit Cloud Recesses so many times in the Yiling Patriarch’s second lifetime. He has had this thought that after Guanyin Temple, the YunmengJiang Sect Leader would condemn Cloud Recesses and never step on its land ever again if he could help it.

Apparently, he couldn’t help it.

Lan Wangji and Lan Xichen are conducting today’s lesson in the training field, teaching the new batch of younger cultivators how to fly on their swords. The junior disciples have also come along, mostly as support and practice sword fighting against one another. Wei Wuxian has been forbidden to tag along by Lan Qiren, because a little chatterbox –Jingyi—has once told him of what happened when Suibian and Bichen clashed against each other on that field. Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian also did, literally stumbling on the floor and that was apparently the start of Wei Wuxian’s awakening from his dumbassery.

He is planning to visit their rabbits instead until classes are over, but when he turns towards Cloud Recesses’ entry, he is met by Jiang Cheng’s thunderous face. It is followed by his usual greeting, “We Wuxian!” No one says it the way his adoptive brother does.

Jumping out of his skin, he steps backwards, raising a hand for an awkward wave. “J-Jiang Cheng, hi! What brought you to Cloud Recesses?”

Zidian emits purple lightning, electricity crackling all around Jiang Cheng. Wei Wuxian couldn’t move, knowing that the whip would come to life he dared to do so. Their staredown is interrupted by a small voice approaching from the entrance. “Jiang Cheng, you can’t always leave me behind like that!” Nie Huaisang grumbles, coming into view while catching his breath.

Jiang Cheng faces his companion with disdain. “Huaisang, how the hell were you left behind? I stopped to remove pebbles in my boots, but I still arrived a minute early.”

Nie Huaisang, heaving for breath, retorts, “I apologize if I didn’t have an undisciplines brat of a nephew I had to follow around all the time, which was why I learned to run fast or I would end up losing him.”

“You--!”

Huaisang screams when Zidian comes to life and is aimed at him. Running the fastest he’s ever ran in his life, he hides behind Wei Wuxian, begging for his life. Wei Wuxian forces out a chuckle even at the face of the purple whip. “Alright. Not that you’re not welcome, but what brought you two here? Grand Master Lan will have your heads for turning up unannounced everytime, you know.”

“You turned up unannounced as well when you first came here!” Jiang Cheng accussed.

“Yeah, but I’m known to be a menace.”

No one argues with his point. His adoptive brother flicks Zidian, the slap of it against the floor making both he and Huaisang jump. “You menace, I received my wedding invitation two days ago, and I immediately went here because of it.”

Wei Wuxian laughs. “Jiang Cheng, you didn’t have to thank us personally—eep!” He dodges the attacked aimed at his left leg. “Stop aiming at me!” He grabs Huaisang onto the front. “Aim at him!”

“Brother Wei!” Huaisang screams when realization that he’s become a bait sinks in. They both crawl out of Zidian’s way when it lands near them again. “Everything immortal, save me!”

“Calm down, Jiang Cheng!” He yells, twisting away from another strike. “Or I’ll call for Zewu-Jun!” That halts the next attack. As Jiang Cheng’s begrudgingly lowers his arm, he raises his hands to placate his adoptive brother. “Heavens, Jiang Cheng. It’s talk first then attack. Not attack then talk. What kind of threatening is that? What if I got incapitated and couldn’t talk?”

“Then you got what you deserved. You never shut up.”

“Lan Zhan likes it in bed,” Wei Wuxian comments offhandedly. He should have expected the strike almost chopping his head off of his body.

Jiang Cheng’s face is entirely crimson. “Shut the fuck up! Ugh.” He groans, running a hand down his face. “You’re getting married in a couple of months here in Gusu. Why did no one inform me that the celebration afterwards will be held in Lotus Pier?”

“We did!” He protests.

“You didn’t!”

Wei Wuxian frowns. “We did!” He insists, digging up his memory bin. “Lan Zhan and I talked about it a week after our engagement. Then we started composing a letter to inform you about it. While writing, I complimented his calligraphy, and his beautiful, big hands. I, then, proceeded to suck on his free hand’s fingers, and we ended up doing it on the table.” He doesn’t notice Jiang Cheng’s gaping face, and Huaisang’s embarrassed expression. He just fluhes with the memory of a very heated night, writhing under warm, big hands against skin. He cackles. “Oh—that’s why. Yeah, we forgot, sorry!”

“You could have told me you forgot without the disgusting details!” Jiang Cheng growls, going for his leg.

“What’s the fun in that?” He quips back, back flipping away from another strike. Once Zidian has reverted back to its ring form, he gains the confidence to step forward and face his adoptive brother. “Don’t tell me you visited Cloud Recesses just for that reason. You missed me, didn’t you?”

Before Jiang Cheng would burst in fury again, Huaisang grabs onto Wei Wuxian’s arms with enthusiasm. “Brother Wei, you will no longer be a bachelor soon. We thought that while all of us are free, we could have fun for one night like we did when we were younger? Celebration before Hanguang-Jun whisks you away and make you his husband for eternity.”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes brighten up at the idea. It has been a lifetime sine he has last enjoyed a night with these two, and he couldn’t think of a greater idea. “That sounds fun! How about Lan Zhan, though? He will no longer be a bachelor too.”

“Who cares about him,” Jiang Cheng grunts, rolling his eyes. Wei Wuxian throws him a dirty look. “What? He can go look for people he could hang out with too.”

The QingheNie Sect Leader raises a closed fan. “I already called for reinforcements. Well, reinforcement since he’s all alone.”

The Yunmeng brothers regard him with mutual curiosity. “Reinforcement?” They echo.

“I am the reinforcement,” A voice introduces from Cloud Recesses’ entry. With a roll of his eyes, Wei Wuxian turns to greet their newly-arrived visitor. Gen Lei folds an arm behind his back and returns his glare. “I am not here for you. Stop glaring at me.”

Wei Wuxian puckers out his bottom lip towards Nie Huaisang. “Huaisang, why did you call him? He might abduct Lan Zhan away!” When Gen Lei takes a step forward, he unsheathes Suibian and points it at the man. “Swear before me you wouldn’t kidnap my future husband away, or I will call forth all near fierce corpses to devour you.”

He receives a disbelieving sigh. “Wei Wuxian, I am here to genuinely accompany the Twin Jades of Lan for a night of fun. A bachelor party, if you may. If we left those brother together, they would end up talking about solving cultivation world issues instead.”

 Fair enough. Having Lan Xichen with the two somehow relieved him enough to agree. Lan Wangji doesn’t need much persuasion when they hunted him down, wanting nothing but Wei Wuxian happy.

Wei Wuxian cackles when Huaisang continues hiccupping relentlessly across from him once he has gulped down his fourth cup of liquor. Since he hasn’t married into the GusuLan Sect yet, Wei Wuxian is given a blind eye by Lan Xichen when they re-entered Cloud Recesses before curfew with jars of Emperor’s Smile.

Hidden and far enough from Lan Qiren’s residence, a room is reserved for the three of them and the night patrols are told to stay far away from it. No one dared question the reason why – it was an order from Zewu-Jun after all.

So, the Yiling Patriarch and two Sect Leaders let themselves be spoilt, treating the night as if two of them didn’t leave their Sects unattened while the remaining one literally rose from the dead. For the past hour, they were stubbornly clinging to the concept that they are adults and must retain some maturity. But the moment they finished the second jar of liquor, all logic falls down the window. It is a free night to be themselves without the weight of responsibilities and expectations on their shoulders. Why not pretend they were students of Cloud Recesses again? Breaking the rules while the world hasn’t burnt to the ground yet.

Wei Wuxian smiles when Huaisang hiccups and groans, disgusted at his own manner. “It’s been so long since we last hung out, the three of us,” He sighs. “I missed this.”

Jiang Cheng picks up another cup and gulps it down in one go. The cup clatters slightly against the table when he sets it back. “Who doesn’t? It’s been almost twenty years. Lan Wangji even got us punished the day after – I will never forget those fucking discipline sticks. Damn him.”

He snorts against his own cup. “You got off lucky! The two of us got the heaviest punishment.” He scoffs, remembering the pain. “Lan Zhan was so adamant to get punished, it irked me off.”

“He was, he was!” Huaisang agrees, incredulous. “Who admits their misdeeds just like that? He was far too rigid back then. Almost like a living statue of perfection – way too cold and untouchable.”

Wei Wuxian shakes his head with nostalgia. “The first night we arrived, I had to duel him on the roof because he wouldn’t let me in since it’s past the time and I had Emperor’s Smile with me. One Emperor’s Smile was sacrificed, and then I went and insulted him to his face. I called him dull, boring, rigid—“ He laughs. “Did you know I even suggested that he liked Miamian back in the Xuanwu Cave?”

His two companions looked scandalised with the idea. “What did he ever see in you?” Huaisang asks with a frown.

“What did they ever see in each other, more like,” Jiang Cheng corrects, pouring himself another cup. “If you told me decades ago that anybody would marry you, I would have laughed. If you told me you would end up with Lan Wangji of all people, I would have set myself on fire. Yet, here we are, throwing you a small party before you tie yourself to him forever.”

Huaisang offers the Yiling Patriarch a cup. “Brother Wei, we have no doubt whatsoever, but are you certain with this marriage? People will talk. I know you’re used to it, but it could be avoided. You two could remain betrothed without actually marrying.”

Wei Wuxian accepts the small cup and swirls it contents, looking at the man reflecting through the liquid. The image pulls a smile from his face. “What the world thinks doesn’t matter to either of us anymore. Most of our lives, we were consumed by expectations. We lived up to what society wanted. We were tamed to submission even we were meant to be untamed. I want to walk down that aisle and see him waiting in front of me. I want to kowtow thrice, and make do of my promise to his parents. I want to exchange vows with him.”

Jiang Cheng sighs, tilting his head upwards to stare at the ceiling. “I wouldn’t fault you for wanting all of those. You found each other even after death came in between you two, what could mortals compete against that? While you were gone, I heard of the stories – of his constant travel to aid those in need while looking for something. I am no fool, I knew he was searching for signs of you. Did you know he visited Jiang Clan Ancestral Hall to ask for my—our parents’ and shijie’s blessing?”

He gapes at his adoptive brother. “He did?”

The other doesn’t repeat what he has said, turning at him with a small smile. In front of him is no longer his younger brother he could dote and tease all the time, he has turned to a man who has gone through so much and continues to learn and grow even if he was left all alone. In front of him is Jiang Cheng that controls his own life, and has decided to choose how to go through his journey – unshackled by the past. “I’m happy for you.”

Huaisang chuckles and takes a sip. “So am I,” He assures. “I just wanted to make sure. You two are meant to be. It is befitting that you met in Cloud Recesses, and end up in Cloud Recesses. I do wish you two a bright future and happy life.”

Tears spring up his eyes, overwhelming him with the unexpected support from a friend he thought he had lost and a brother he thought he would never reconcile with. “Damn it,” He grumbles, wiping his tears. “Ever since I’ve gotten together with Lan Zhan, I became more sentimental.”

“That’s because he doesn’t restrain you. Nothing does anymore.”

Wei Wuxian scrubs his tears away, nodding. Then he remembers something he has snuck into their room. He retrieves a neatly folded cloth bag, goes behind the divider in the side of the room and says, “Wait there.”

Jiang Cheng and Huaisang exchange glances when they hear Wei Wuxian grumble to himself from behind the divider. Because of the dim light of the candle, they couldn’t see what is taking their companion too long. To distract themselves, they choose to snack on the peanuts and roasted chestnuts Wei Wuxian requested from the kitchens.

Huaisang throws the question at him without preamble, “So, Jiang Cheng, when will you ever tell Zewu-Jun that you’re available?”

The YunmengJiang Sect Leader almost chokes from the peanut he has swallowed the wrong way. Wheezing, he hisses, “What the hell are you talking about, Huaisang?”

The other seems unimpressed. “I act like one, but I am not an idiot. You and Zewu-Jun are not subtle when you’re together. I don’t think either of you are trying to be.” At Jiang Cheng’s silence, the shorter man eases, “What’s stopping you?”

He doesn’t respond. Huaisang is not an idiot. He already knows the answer to his question.

“Let me guess, you’re both Sect Leaders. He’s also the Chief Cultivator. There is also the matter that since Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are going to be married, you two were left in your Clans to produce the next heirs?” Huaisang says with confidence. At Jiang Cheng’s brief glance at him, the other smiles with a shake of his head. “Jiang Cheng, none of us necessarily need to follow the traditions strictly anymore. Mingjue left Qinghe to me. Do you think I ever wanted to be a Sect Leader? He left me a will, leaving the position to me. There was a letter attached to it, telling me that I absolutely do not need to force myself to follow our ancestors, that even if I would be the Sect Leader, I should never let it stop me from being me.” Jiang Cheng looks up at his friend when Huaisang places a hand over the YunmengJiang Sect Leader’s. “Jiang Cheng, it’s okay. I also would not produce a heir. It’s my choice. You can choose too.”

Jiang Cheng furrows his brows, letting the words out. “I—It will be tough for me to just—do it. He is Zewu-Jun. Who am I, but Yunmeng’s youngest child? But I do intend to let him know someday. I want him to know that—I am pleased—that my day doesn’t go to ruins when I see him.”

Huaisang squeezes his hand with a nod, grinning. “You have to revise that speech. He might misunderstand.”

“Then, he has to use reverse psychology. That’s how I talk,” Jiang Cheng grunts. After Huaisang’s laughter dies down, he casts a side-glance at his friend. “Sect Leader Gen has also become available, you know.”

Huaisang’s shoulder tense. And his eyes travel slowly to meet his. He seems torn between denying it and asking Jiang Cheng how he knew. At Jiang Cheng’s knowing look, he surrenders. “I don’t know, I really don’t know yet. He’s a nice person, but Lan Wangji has been part of his life for so long and I don’t think I can compete with that.”

“You don’t have to,” Wei Wuxian’s voice interrupts from where he is, still hidden from sight. “Gen Lei is a type of person who would never compare one to another. Lan Zhan is important to him, and it might take a while for him to move on. But knowing his personality, he will. He has accepted that the two of them are mere friends. What could stop him from accepting that he will be ready to love again?”

“Brother Wei, what do you know?” Huaisang grumbles. “You were oblivious to Hanguang-Jun’s affections for twenty years!”

“I have a good radar until it involves me!” Wei Wuxian complaints, offended. “It’ll be okay. I’m certain you’re new to this as he is. Just give yourselves time. You seem compatible.”

The QingheNie Sect Leader pouts down at his cup of liquor. “Don’t give me false hope. Gen Lei looks like a guy who would only be compatible with the likes of Hanguang-Jun—ow!” Jiang Cheng cuts their friend off by slapping the man with his own fan.

“If you don’t stop that nonsense, I’ll shove this fan down your throat. Haven’t you learned from these two dumbasses?” He points where the divider is. “Quit misinterpreting until you’ve talked.”

Huaisang nods with reluctance, rubbing his sore head.

Wei Wuxian’s voice stops their discussion. “Hey, you two. I’m done. Would you mind closing your eyes?” Before he could inquire why, he hears his adopted brother plead, “Please humor me?”

Finding no reason not to comply, he and Huaisang shut their eyes, listening intently as footsteps near their table. They wait for any kind of prank when they feel Wei Wuxian’s presence going near the door in front of them. Instead of a trick, they hear the Yiling Patriarch whisper nervously, “You can open them now.”

Jiang Cheng’s breathe stutters when once he peels his open, he finds Wei Wuxian standing before them adorned in beautiful crimson robes – the sash belt is dark almost black symbolizing his trademark color combination. There are outlines of lotus, magnolia and peony at the bottom of the robes, made with strings of overlapping silver and gold and glowing due to the dimness of the room. His second layer of robes is the longest, its lace material complementing the heavy fabric of the outermost layer. What catches Jiang Cheng’s eyes though is the thin, red veil over his adopted brother’s head, partially hiding his face from them -- its edge is also covered with gold, the whole thing is kept on place by a single pin clasping the veil onto his half ponytail. His hair sash remains the same: maroon and made of simple yet sturdy material.

Through the veil, they see Wei Wuxian’s glimmering almost silver eyes. “What do you think?” He asks, voice small and trembling. “I wanted to let you see before the wedding. I believe you deserve the first look.”

Huaisang has let his tears fall. “Brother Wei, you look gorgeous,” He breathes. “Thank you for letting us see before anyone else.”

The YunmengJiang Sect Leader’s vision blurs with unshed tears that came out of nowhere. “You look…happy,” He murmurs. “The robes are astounding, but most of all—you look incredibly happy wearing them.”

Wei Wuxian lowers his gaze, at the jade token of passage hanging from his sash belt. “I am.”

Swallowing, Jiang Cheng reaches over to touch his adopted brother’s veil. “Shijie is proud of you.”

“Shijie is proud of us,” Wei Wuxian corrects him, grabbing his hand. His sincerity makes the tears fall. “Jiang Cheng, will you be the one to hand me over to Lan Zhan at the altar? Can you accompany me down the aisle?”

Jiang Cheng glances from Wei Wuxian to Huaisang, uncertain if he heard the question correctly. At their friend’s encouraging nod, he shakily lifts his brother’s veil and sees Wei Wuxian shedding his own tears – hopeful. He huffs, flicking the Yiling Patriarch’s nose lightly. “If you insist.”

Then Wei Wuxian looks over at Huaisang, “I reserved empty seats for those who couldn’t come. There will be places in the side which will remain empty the entire time. Three exactly: one for shijie, one for Jin Zixuan, and one for Red Blade Master. Lan Zhan is the one who proposed the idea, I eagerly agreed.” His arms automatically open when Huaisang flings himself into the Yiling Patriarch’s arms, sobbing in gratitude.

The red wedding robes looks astounding on Wei Wuxian. Jiang Cheng believes happiness look best on his adopted brother though.

Lan Wangji’s bachelor party is much mellower since he has never been one for social activities. Lan Xichen and Gen Lei have mostly filled the silences with various conversations. Gen Lei is genuinely an interesting fellow who is knowledgeable and is fairly intelligent despite his gentle demeanor. He seems to be an honest man that has ingrained protectiveness within his copper eyes. He is glad that the man has accepted to become Wangji’s friend – his brother needs more of people like him.

The question comes out of nowhere in the middle of the evening, “Zewu-Jun, what do you think of Sect Leader Jiang?”

If not for his years of training with proper meal etiquette, tea would have gone out of nose. He needs several moments to compose himself before facing the other man. “Young Master Gen, where has this question come from?” At the other’s innocent look, he indulges him, “Sect Leader Jiang has a fierce personality. I believe Yunmeng is prospering and rising steadily under his leadership. He has a sharp tongue, but I believe dealing with him is basically reading between the lines.”

Wangji turns towards Gen Lei, also curious where the conversation is going. Gen Lei doesn’t disappoint. He swirls his tea and takes a generous sip. “Indeed, indeed.” He casts a side-glance towards Xichen. “I wonder if he was available. I know someone who has grown interested with him. I would like to help them get together, they seem compatible enough.”

Xichen finds his hand stilling mid-air, just as he is about to retrieve the tea pot. He cuts his glance towards their companion, forcing a neutral smile. “Oh. I wouldn’t know. We don’t truly interact much outside of necessity.”

Gen Lei hums and then turns towards Wangji. “Do you think Young Master Wei would help my endeavour?”

Wangji blinks, look from Xichen then back at Gen Lei. “Yes.”

Alright, if his brother agreed then Wei Wuxian would probably do the job. Xichen heaves a sigh and pours himself tea, missing an inch to pour the liquid onto the table. He hisses and puts the pot on its place, hastily looking for a washcloth.

Wangji comes to his rescue, kneeling beside him to clean the mess with the cloth in his hand. Once done, he tilts his head sideways towards Xichen. The adorable mannerism has been brought back from his childhood, Xichen is glad to see it again. “What’s wrong, brother?”

“Do you know this person Young Master Gen is talking about? Are they a good person? I am merely concerned whether he is suitable for Sect Leader Jiang,” He queries.

His brother returns to his seat. “I do. They are.”

Xichen has no right to feel disappointed that his brother approved of whoever the person is. Gen Lei has been a great candidate for Wangji. If the person was someone Gen Lei would be willing to back up, they must be of the same category of personality. “Oh,” He mumbles, trying his best not to spill his tea again. “May I know their name? I might have met them before.”

Wangji and Gen Lei exchange a look and blurt at the same time, “Brother,” “Sect Leader Lan.”

To say he is surprised is an understatement. “I—Have I been that obvious with my intentions?”

“You two are not subtle,” Gen Lei admonishes with a smirk. Upon noticing Lan Wangji’s empty cup, he pours him a cup himself. They share a small smile before Gen Lei looks back at Xichen again. Xichen is brimming with pride for the friendship the two have formed. He feels like a mother hen watching his baby chick grow up. “Lan Wangji and I talked about it before, and we think you should give it a try. Wei Wuxian obviously pushes you two together, meaning he, himself, sees the chemistry.” When he opens his mouth, Gen Lei raises a hand to stop him. “I know what you’re going to say. Lan Wangji has told me what probably ran in your mind. The cultivation world itself knows you do your best to separate your duty from personal issues – this wouldn’t be any different. Next, so what if you’re both a Sect Leader and the Chief Cultivator? Lan Wangji is almost in the same position, yet he’s getting married to the Yiling Patriarch. No one will beat that. Another, your personalities might clash. But they also complement – you even know how to read him already. Lastly, I’m certain the people who care about you wouldn’t care who you’ve chosen. They just want you to finally be happy. Lan Wangji sure does.”

Xichen couldn’t help his mouth, “Do you think I have a chance with him?”

They all turn silent when Wangji leans over the table to clasp a hand over Xichen’s mouth. “Yes. Don’t know why brother likes him. But yes.”

“And if he didn’t give Zewu-Jun a chance?” Gen Lei challenges, wanting to know how Wangji would respond.

“I would push him down the stairs of Cloud Recesses.”

“Wangji!” He couldn’t help chiding despite the amusement in his tone. “That’s prohibited.”

“I would push him on the nearest staircase outside of Cloud Recesses,” His brother corrects himself.

“That would make Young Master Wei sad,” Gen Lei reminds, taking a sip of his tea.

“I would push myself down the stairs next for making Wei Ying sad.”

Wangji returns to the proper posture on his seat after nonchalantly discussing his plans if ever Jiang Cheng had declined Lan Xichen. Xichen has an inkling he has to ensure his brother and Jiang Cheng would never be left alone together.

They fall into a comfortable silence afterwards, the leaves brushing against each other on the blooming trees outside the hanshi loud. Xichen’s peripheral vision catches an unfamiliar glint from a corner of the room, and when he turns, he finds Shexian sheathed and leaning against the wall. That is a familiar object, so Xichen tries to find out what triggered his senses to look. His eyes land on the keychain hanging from the scabbard’s body, it is relatively new and simple: a single line of green beads with the head of a beast at the end – it is the chain of protection usually given to QingheNie cultivators. Lan Xichen is immensely curious of its origin, but when he catches Wangji’s eyes, his brother gives him a discrete shake of his head. Not the right time.

As the one who has rejected Gen Lei, Wangji must know better. So Xichen keeps his mouth shut and continues their after-dinner tea.

It is an hour before curfew when Wangji grows agitated across from him. It is not obvious, but Xichen notices it with the way his brother’s jaw clenches and unclenches, and the accidental sound he makes when sipping his tea despite usually drinking his beverage in silence. Xichen smiles and prompts, “Wangji, what is it?”

Wangji’s takes a deep breath before rising to his feet. “I need your opinion about something,” This is the only thing he says before picking the cloth bag he has come with, and disappearing behind the divider where Lan Xichen usually changes. There are rustles behind it, and seeing as it might take a while, he and Gen Lei resume drinking their tea – used to the silence.

“Brother. Gen Lei. I’m done,” Wangji announces after around ten minutes.

With one glance at each other, they let him step out from behind the divider. Xichen almost drops the cup in his hand once his brother steps into view wearing his wedding robes. Beauty has always been subjective for Xichen, and he has always been neutral to everyone’s praises towards the esteemed look of the Twin Jades of Lan. Seeing Wangji adorned in red from top to bottom makes him realize what beauty truly is.

His hair piece is a tiny golden crown with the silhouette of a peony made of jade in the middle.  Wangji is adorning several layers of red, and after seeing his brother wear white or sky blue most of their lives – red seems to make Wangji even more ethereal, his pale skin complementing the bright color. His robes are almost identical to their GusuLan Sect traditional uniform except the color. However, there are golden outlines of clouds at the bottom part of his the outermost robes. At his hanging sleeves are silver silhouettes of gentian overlapping over one another. Honoring things that mattered to him.

Xichen finds himself unable to breathe when Wangji retrieves a red veil inside his sleeve, taking out a simple silver hairpin with it. He watches as the lace flutters when Lan Wangji eases the cloth over his head and secures it in place, concealing his face from them. His golden eyes sparkle from where they are still visible through the thin fabric. “I have decided to wear a veil as well.”

At this moment, his brother resembles their mother greatly.

Gen Lei has his hands over his mouth, absolutely stunned. “I—I—don’t know what to say. Lan Wangji, you are breathtaking. The veil—The veil—is a good choice.” He swallows. “Lan Wangji, thank you for showing this to us.”

“Xichen is my brother. You are my friend,” Lan Wangji says, as if it was that simple. As if it wasn’t a privilege. As if it wasn’t a gift on its own. As if there was never a question in Wangji’s mind on who he wanted to show it to first.

Xichen goes to his feet, approaching the brother he has raised. He chokes up when his fingers stroke the veil. “Wangji, oh my dear Wangji,” He whispers. “I still can’t believe you’re getting married. I still can’t believe I’m letting you go. It seemed yesterday when I first held you in my arms.” Tears trail down his cheeks and he lets them, because this is his brother, and he sees the genuine happiness in those typically light golden eyes. “I remember the bliss I felt when you came into my life – a baby brother. I still remember cradling you when you cried for our parents. I still remember hugging you when mother died, and then pulling you close when father left us as well. I remember tending to the scars on your back when you’ve fought hard for the love of your life. And here you are now.”

Wangji lifts the veil to reveal his glassy eyes behind them. “Here I am now,” He repeats, awed.

The Older Jade of Lan licks his lips, pulling himself together. “Heavens, you look so much like Mother right now,” He whispers, touching his brother’s long fringe. “We didn’t have the best childhood, and I had my faults in raising you. But, I am proud of watching you grow into the man you have become. Wangji. My shidi, you have grown so much. I don’t want to let you go yet, because you’ll always be my younger brother. Yet, I have to.” He chuckles wetly. “Mother and Father will watch you walk down that aisle, blissed with the path you have chosen for yourself. Wangji, I’ll miss being your older brother.”

“You will always be my big brother.”

His tears pour down at those sincere words. Wangji is getting married, yet with those words, he has swore never ever to forget who Xichen is in his life. No matter their age, they will always be brothers. “Can I hug you?” He whispers. At Wangji’s nod, he pulls his younger brother into his arms. “Zhan-di, you’ve found your happy ending. I’m happy for you.”

Wangji freezes at the nickname that he hasn’t heard for decades. “Mn.” He murmurs, slowly returning the embrace. “…Huan-ge, will you accompany me down the aisle?”

Xichen pulls away, glances at Gen Lei, who gives him a wide smile of support, and back at his brother, disbelieving of the words he has heard. “Are you certain?”

Wangji’s eyes sparkled. “Mn. No one but brother.”

“I’ll be honoured,” Xichen murmurs. “Expect lots of tears from me, though,” He adds when they pull apart. He lifts his fists to scrub the tears away, chuckling at the mess he has become.

Lan Wangji, bless him, takes out a folded cloth to help Xichen wipe his tears away. The ribbon around his forehead isn’t the GusuLan Sect, it’s a simple red fabric almost similar to Wei Wuxian’s hair sash.

Lan Wangji is truly a beauty, but he’s most beautiful when he’s happy.

Wei Wuxian eyes travel from his experimentation of a new talisman towards his newly emerged future husband. With summer bringing longer daylight than night time, the skies are still tad lighter, making candles unnecessary even if it was almost bed time.

Lan Wangji steps into their bedroom with only his inner shirt and trousers on, loose hair almost dry fully. When he shifts his hair into one side, the action moves the other side of his open shirt, revealing the criss-cross of scars on his back. Wei Wuxian silences his gasp at seeing them again. They are not a new view, but he will never get used to seeing them against his beloved’s pale skin that used to be flawless.

The Yiling Patriarch is on his feet before he even knows what he’s doing. Steps light, he approaches his future husband from behind, his fingers light against the thin fabric. Lan Wangji looks over his shoulder at him with slight curiosity. But his eyes remain on the scars brought by discipline whips his lover never deserves in the first place. One whip for every elder he has hurt. One mark for each pride he has broken. Wei Wuxian couldn’t even imagine the excrutiating pain they must have given Lan Wangji when they were healing without proper medication. “They don’t hurt anymore.”

Wei Wuxian hums, and pulls the shirt down to reveal the marks he has never truly stared at before. His heart hurt just touching the raised skin. “I wished I was there,” He whispers. “I wished I was able to block you from those strikes. I wished I could have accompanied you during your seclusion. I wished I could have prevented the hurt I’ve brought you for sixteen years.”

“You’re here now. That’s what matters.”

His fingers find a scar composed of five overlapping raised skin. Five strikes on the same area, almost reaching the side of Lan Wangji’s abdomen. “You didn’t deserve these.”

“I don’t regret them. I would receive them again in a heart beat if I could protect you.”

Wei Wuxian wants to scold his lover, but he knows the man’s devotion and stubbornness as well so the effort would be futile. Instead, he focuses on comfort. He trails his hands along Lan Wangji’s arms until their hands interlock, then cradles their twined hands near his beloved’s chest. After a squeeze, he pulls away to place his hands on Lan Wangji’s sides, planting a kiss on the first scar near his partner’s nape of the neck. Lan Wangji shivers with the touch. Then he kisses the one on the left shoulder blade. Silently, his lover lets him. Another crosses from the shoulder down to the right shoulder blade. Wei Wuxian faithfully kisses each raised skin, his hands gentle as they keep Lan Wangji on his place, pliant to his affections.

When he meets the last scar going from Lan Wangji’s side to his spine, he kisses it longest. I’m sorry you had to endure these. Thank you for enduring them for me. He rises and crosses until he’s in front of Lan Wangji – his future husband is staring at him as the stars and moon exist because of him. Smiling back, he leans over to kiss the QishanWen brand on his beloved’s chest, sensing the other tense under his touch.

Once he’s straightened up again, Lan Wangji picks up his hands to intertwine them between their bodies, lifting them briefly to plant a kiss on the back of Wei Wuxian’s hands. I’m sorry for the memories my scars give you. Thank you for loving me all the same.

Wei Wuxian stands on his toes to capture the man’s lips with his for a passionate kiss. “You make me the happiest.”

“Wei Ying also do.”

Tomorrow is the day.

Chapter Text

The day has come. The fateful day has arrived. Cloud Recesses has never been a place of much noise, yet the whole place is full of life. The Conference Hall has been chosen as the wedding reception, seating around fifty guests on either sides of the red carpeted aisle. Sitting mats are placed behind each guest’s table for everyone’s convenience, the pre-ceremony snacks have been set down for the early arrivals. The aisle is protected with metal railing separated by a pillar surrounded by flowering vines after every couple of meters. The entrance has also been adorned with a customized archway made of Cloud Recesses’ own gentian flowers. On the ceiling hung assortments of orchids, their smell soothing the whole hall, and red lanterns with rabbits at the front and back. The whole hall is also surrounded by red laces and fabrics, symbolizing the event that will transpire. And in the very front, at the foot of the steps are two sets of sitting mats for the most-awaited couple.

Sizhui has been part of the planning committee, yet he is still astounded with the end result of months of hard work. Six months of preparation has come to this, and he has no regrets.

The guest list has included Grand Master Lan, Zewu-Jun, Sect Leader Gen, Sect Leader Jiang, Sect Leader Nie, Young Master Jin Ling, Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi – the lot of them earning front seats while two of them will walk the couple down the aisle. Along with them, there are also others invited: Wen Ning, Ouyang Zizhen, Sect Leader Gen’s cousin, several Elder and junior Lan cultivators, some cultivators Sizhui haven’t interacted with, Qingyang Luo, her daughter and her husband, Sect Leader Ouyang, Sect Leader Yao. The last two baffled many. Funnily enough, a seat is also reserved for Fairy at the very end of the hall. Sizhui’s heart also breaks at finding out that his fathers have reserved seats for the late Lady Jiang, Jin Zixuan, Nie Mingjue and the still missing pair of Song Lan and Xiao Xingchen.

His fathers’ wedding has been the talk of the cultivation world since it has been announced – many envious of those who have gotten invitations. Several still disgusted by the thought. Sizhui pay none of them any attention, just genuinely glad of being here and witnessing the fateful union himself.

Most of their guests have worn their most luxurious robes, wanting to look their best as they watch two of the most eligible bachelors of the cultivation world walk down the aisle. None has seen the grooms in their wedding attire except for several who wouldn’t tell a single word to describe how the couple look.

Sizhui is in the middle of a conversation with Jin Ling regarding the recent issues in Carp Tower when Jingyi comes quick-walking through the open doorways. Jin Ling knows what it means and subtly returns to his seat. No one of the other guests notices his arrival, busy chattering with one another. The men at the back – Sizhui, Sect Leader Jiang, Zewu-Jun—have been waiting for this for quite a while, however, so they all tense up. Jingyi, with flushed cheeks and glassy eyes, murmurs, “They’re arriving. It’s Hanguang-Jun first.”

At this, Sizhui walks towards the front, while the other three step out of the hall and close the doors. The sudden enclosure perks up the guests, looking forward at Sizhui. The ceremony hasn’t even begun but he could feel his eyes water already. “Everyone,” He begins. “we owe you our gratitude for attending this event, for witnessing this union with us, for supporting the two of them towards their chosen path and future. Today, we will witness the union of Hanguang-Jun, Lan Wangji of the GusuLan Sect, and the Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian of the YunmengJiang Sect. Together, let us wish them happiness.”

At this, he steps down the dais to stand on the side of a pillar, waiting for the doors to open.

It doesn’t take long. Jingyi pushes open the doors, and stands on one side, welcoming the first groom with a wide smile. Sizhui bites his lip to stifle his tears when Lan Wangji enters the hall, trailed after by his older brother. All mouths hang open when he strides with a veil over his head, adorned in red from head to toe, his GusuLan Sect ribbon replaced with a red fabric that resembles Wei Wuxian’s hair sash. Sizhui meets his father’s eyes through the veil, and he can feel the bliss within them even if there isn’t a change of expression from Hanguang-Jun. Lan Wangji halts at the foot of the dais, Lan Xichen stopping right beside him. The brothers exchange a smile as they turn towards the door.

In a matter of seconds, the half of the pair goes through the archway. Wei Wuxian arrives, Jiang Cheng striding in behind him. The Yiling Patriarch looks nervous, but Jiang Cheng ushers him with a light shove on the back and few unheard words. Wei Wuxian laughs and continues onward. Sizhui feels the tears threaten to fall when he sees the red veil also plastered over his Dad’s head, partially concealing his face. He is also wearing red from top to bottom, the jade token of Cloud Recesses hanging from his dark sash belt. The mix of colors showing his main chosen colors. Wei Wuxian catches his gaze, and smiles brightly at him reminding Sizhui of the man who has buried him with turnips back in Burial Mounds. That smile used to be dimmer, now, it could rival the sun. Wei Wuxian halts on the other side of the foot of the steps, Jiang Cheng stopping beside him.

Lan Xichen gives a wet, gentle smile at the Yiling Patriarch just as Jiang Cheng gives Lan Wangji an almost painful nod of approval. Sizhui understands. It must be tough to hand your brothers away. The brothers, with silent farewell to the grooms, go to their seats, which are ironically beside each other. Sizhui snorts when Jiang Cheng glares at where the grooms are, cheeks flamed. Zewu-Jun also notices, pushing away his embarrassment with a cough.

Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are oblivious, facing each other in the middle of the room with evident adoration in their expressions. The former offers his hands, palms up, and the other places his own on top of them. The shine of the light against the the silver rings around their ring fingers. Simple yet elegant against their skin.

Wei Wuxian looks up from their hands to stare at Lan Wangji, smiling wide. “Over twenty years ago, I met you, fought you and insulted you. I bothered you endlessly, wanting your attention. I used your birth name without consideration of etiquette. I think all those years, I already wanted your eyes only on me. Eighteen years ago, I pushed you away so many times when you’ve wanted nothing but help me and save me from myself. Then, Nightless City happened and I left you behind.” His voice cracks. “You waited patiently without knowing if I would come back. Why did I ever think you would hate me, Lan Zhan, when all you’ve done is love from me from the very start?”

Lan Wangji soothes him by stroking the back of Wei Wuxian’s hands with his thumbs.

“I stand before the Heavens, Earth, our departed and living loved ones and before you, vowing to love you until eternity. Vowing that no matter what comes our way, I will hold onto you and never let go. Vowing that no matter what lifetime, I will always find you.” With this, he squeezes Lan Wangji’s hands, a single tear trailing down his cheek, his smile a permanent fix on his face.

Lan Wangji takes a deep breath, never a man of words. “You were my confidant who has remained as my soulmate. You are my life. You will be my future. Waiting for you wasn’t the hard part. Letting you go was. Finding you was having half of my soul back. So, I vow before Heavens and Earth, before our departed and living loved ones and before you, that I will find you again and again in all lifetimes. I vow never to stop loving you. I vow never to let you go again. And I vow to give you the happiness you’ve always deserved.”

Sizhui couldn’t hold in his tears any longer, letting them stream down his cheeks as his parents smile at each other after they have done their vows. A sob emits out of him when Lan Wangji retrieves a GusuLan Sect ribbon from his sleeve and steps forward to wrap it around Wei Wuxian’s forehead. The Yiling Patriarch accepts it without protest, untying his hair sash from his half ponytail. There are two wrapped around his hair apparently, the outer one he offers to the Second Jade of Lan. Lan Wangji bends his head down to ease Wei Wuxian’s job tying the crimson hair sash around Lan Wangji’s half bun.

Once both are done, they face the dais and proceeds with the rest of the ceremony. Sizhui’s eyes travel when the couple begins to bow to the Heavens. He finds Lan Qiren watching the grooms with defeat – surrendering the fate of the two to the universe, Lan Xichen teary-eyed and Jiang Cheng keeping his tears in by clenching his fists tightly on the table. Nie Huaisang is openly sobbing behind his open fan. Gen Lei has a look of genuine acceptance. Jingyi, Jin Ling, and Ouyang Zizhen are weeping, ocassionally scrubbing their snot on the sleeves of their robes.

The couple bows once more for their beloved parents. Then they face each other to bow at each other. And Sizhui swears he saw the empty seats occupied with translucent entities, smiling proudly as they watch the scene. The lone woman in the middle is a beautiful person, filled with kindness beneath her eyes. Once Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian are done bowing towards each other, the spirits are gone as quickly as they arrived.

Afterwards, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian rise to their feet, and reach for each other. Wei Wuxian slowly wraps his arms around Hanguang-Jun’s neck while Lan Wangji’s hands land on the Yiling Patriarch’s hips. As the former stands on his toes and the latter leans down, their lips meet for a passionate kiss, sealing their union. Sizhui watches in the side, feeling his happiness overflow for the people who have loved and raised him as their own. When they pull apart, they both look towards him and gestures for him to come towards them. Uncaring, he sprints forward and pulls his newly-wedded parents into a tight hug, sobbing on their shoulders.

The attendees stand from the seats, their applause and cheers resonating around the Conference Hall – celebrating the union of two people who have made history.

Lan Wangji is the happiest he has ever been in his life, an arm around his now-husband’s waist, they do rounds in the hall, greeting and chattering with their guests – well, Wei Wuxian did most of the talking, the Second Jade of Lan is content having his lover beside him.

They haven’t changed, still a couple covered in red. They are greeted with enthusiasm whoever they approached, and he is proud that somehow, in their own, they have made history.

His brother has stood up to pull him for a tight hug, the gesture filled with the love Lan Xichen has for him. There is no hesitation when he returns the embrace, inhaling his brother’s calming scent that has soothed him when they were younger. Lan Qiren has become tolerable of their relationship, giving a nod towards Wei Wuxian, and a brief pat of a head on Lan Wangji’s head. It is a blessing on its own. Sizhui, Jingyi and Jin Ling have welcomed them to their tables with eagerness, voices overlapping one another as they chatter about how tear-jerking the ceremony was. Lan Wangji gives their son a pat on the head, seeing the genuine happiness in those eyes whenever they land on either Lan Wangji or Wei Wuxian. Adopting him will always be one of Lan Wangji’s greatest choices in life.

They are by the doors, his husband murmuring sweet nothing against his shoulder when a couple of presence makes both of them freeze. With a confused glance at each other, they look over their shoulders towards the new arrivals. Even Lan Wangji couldn’t help gasping slightly.

Song Lan is standing outside of the doors.

Standing beside him is Xiao Xingchen, alive and well.

Wei Wuxian takes several seconds to find his voice, eyes wide. “Song Lan? Uncle Xiao?” He exclaims, pulling away gently to approach their unexpected visitors. His loud voice has garnered otehrs’ attention, and the juniors who have been with them in Yi City all clamber to see the truth themselves, crowding right behind the newly wedded couple. Lan Wangji watches his husband hesitantly pat Xiao Xingcheng’s arms then face, the man patiently allows it. “Heavens, this is not an illusion. You’re back?” He breathes, a wide smile appearing on his face.

Lan Wangji faces their newly-arrived attendees and goes for a salute, cupping his hands and bowing lowly. “Song Lan. Xiao Xingchen. It is good to see you again.”

Song Lan and Xiao Xingchen return the greeting with grace. Song Lan doesn’t open his mouth, glancing at his companion. Xiao Xingchen stares back at him, his eyes crinkling at the corners with delight. They both turn forward at the same time. Xiao Xingchen’s first words are, “We heard there would be a wedding.” It is strange to hear his voice when the last time they’ve seen him, he was dead inside a coffin. “When we asked along the road, we were astounded to find out the ceremony is for your union. We fortunately arrived just a little late.”

Wei Wuxian clings into Lan Wangji’s arm, addressing their visitors with open curiosity. “Uncle Xiao, I am so glad to see you again! Brother Song has disappeared after…Yi City, and we have no means of contacting him. Although, we did reserve you seats expecting them to be empty or one of them anyway.” He smiles brightly. “It makes this day even better to see both occupied after all.”

Lan Wangji’s eyes land on where the men’s shoulder met, not a sliver of space between them. “Is it alright to ask?” He murmurs, letting his husband nuzzle his nose against his neck. Song Lan and Xiao Xingchen seem used to the open affection.

The two exchange a look before Song Lan nods at the other. Xiao Xingchen sighs with a small smile, ignoring the crowd of juniors who are also listening in. “I do not remember much. It felt like being half asleep, but I do recall recognizing Zichen’s voice. I do not know what he has said, because it was like being underwater but it was definitely his voice. I didn’t want to resurface, honestly, yet there were nights I felt his anguish and grieving and I know he didn’t deserve them. Then, I woke up in a very familiar place. After a night hunt gone wrong, neither of us know how, however we ended up in my master, Baoshan Sanren’s mountain. She remembers me well, and has been moved by how much Zichen has protected the pouch my spiritual cognition was in. Zichen’s voice has slowly lulled parts of my spiritual cognition back until I was mostly whole by the time we met master. As a last favour to her, she decided to revive me.

Suddenly, I was awake. Zichen begged not to return his ability to speak no matter how much I persuaded him, insisting it was his penance.” His eyes lower with a hint of guilt. “It was no one’s fault, really. I learned that the hard way.” Xiao Xingchen raises his gaze and chuckles sweetly. “It was unnerving to see again, and be alive all of a sudden. What more, we found out you two are getting married. It felt like a whiplash. You’ve helped us so much, we believe we owe it to you to attend and congratulate you on the happiest day of your lives.”

Lan Wangji watches them silently, Wei Wuxian plastered on his side, as Xiao Xingchen greets the juniors – who are still trying to subtly eavesdrop behind them-- gently, “Hello. I feel like I’ve met some of you before. I’m Xiao Xingchen. Would you like some candy?”

Despite their age, the juniors are assured and enticed by the man’s patient demeanor, approaching the newly-arrived guests with little to no hesitation. It doesn’t take long for Xiao Xingchen to engage in a conversation with the younger cultivators, Son Lang watching his companion and the children with a pleased expression – giving a nod and hums once in a while when addressed.

Jingyi welcomes the pair with vigour, almost pulling them to their seats. Lan Wangji isn’t surprised that the junior has grown attached to the pair, he has been the most affected by the truth Wei Wuxian has seen in Yi City through Empathy.

Wei Wuxian tilts his head upwards and Lan Wangji automatically plants a kiss on his husband’s forehead. That elicits a smile from the Yiling Patriarch, looking at where Lan Wangji’s attention is pulled at. A smile appears on his face at seeing Xiao Xingchen and Song Lan flustered at the attention the junior disciples are showering them with. “I used to long for what they had: freedom, of being given the choice on what to do with their life, of not being chained in a Sect or a Clan.”

Lan Wangji hums. “I, once, wanted to ask you to join their Sect with me. I felt it was too straightforward.”

His lover gapes up at him, “So did I!” He exclaims in surprise, laughing.

“I am pleased to see them reach their own happy ending,” the Second Jade of Lan murmurs.

Wei Wuxian hums. “So do I.”

Lan Qiren finds his eyebrows ticking in irritation and the disciples before him cower for their lives. He tries his hardest not to yell when he grinds out, “What?”

The poor disciple’s hands are shaking when they hand him over a note. “H-Hanguang-Jun’s home is empty when we tried to find out where he—they are. We found this note on his door.”

The Elder Lan takes the paper and unfolds it. The calligraphy is unmistakeably resembling that of a chicken scratch, and he knows his nephews. Lan Wangji’s handwriting has always been one of the best the world has seen. Lan Xichen reads the note over his shoulder, muffling his chuckle with his sleeve when he finishes.

Three days after he has allowed his youngest nephew marry the Yiling Patriarch, Lan Qiren finds himself searching for ways to make them separate already.

Hello Uncle!

Lan Zhan and I have decided to spend few months away from home to explore the world. I think you will agree that Lan Zhan deserves some rest. Not like we’ll have any rest. Everyday is everday.

We’ll be back before you even know it. For the meantime, take care of Zewu-Jun, Sizhui and Jingyi for us, will you?

For the record, I didn’t abduct Lan Zhan. He came willingly. <3

• Nephew-in-law Wei Wuxian

A heartbeat away from qi deviating, Lan Qiren crumples the letter in his hand. After dismissing the disciples, he digs his temples for some self-control. Even if he wanted to search for those two, it is hard to search for people who don’t want to be found.

Xichen is still laughing behind his sleeve, trying his hardest to contain it. Ever since Wangji has started opening up, something on his oldest nephew also seemed to have lifted from his shoulders, making him freer and more in grasp of his emotions. Lan Qiren appreciates it until he’s the one being laughed at.

Before passing by his Xichen, he places a hand on his nephew’s shoulder, saying solemnly, “Hurry proposing to Sect Leader Jiang. He will be a good distraction against Wei Wuxian.”

Xichen stares at him for several moments before heat travels to his cheeks and ears. The Elder Lan eventually leaves his nephew behind, hearing Xichen spluttering, “I—Uncle, what?”

Lan Qiren thanks the Heavens he still has Sizhui to dote on, hoping his adopted grandson wouldn’t follow his fathers’ and uncle’s lead, and could give Lan Qiren a legitimate great grandchild. (Or so he thought.)

“Hangung-Jun and the Yiling Patriarch haven’t returned yet? It’s been three months, right?”

“If you fought two wars, died and then resurrected or had to take the post of Chief Cultivator, wouldn’t you want to take a break too?”

“Er. Fair point. I am surprised no one has spotted them yet, though. They have become prominent figures in the cultivation world after all.”

“Do you think they’ll ever come back?”

“Should it matter? It’s their life. They’re in love, married and are living their best life. If I had two of those, I would be already happy.”

Trying not to laugh at the words he just heard, Wei Wuxian leaves a generous amount on the table after picking up a basket of loquats and a jar of Emperor’s Smile. As he turns around, the two gossiping vendors thank him for his patronage. He raises a hand to wave back, prancing to where his husband stands on the bridge, overlooking the boats they once rode on to fight the waterborne abyss decades ago with a serene expression.

The Yiling Patriarch watches as a couple of women passes by the bridge, clearly enthralled by the man in dark robes. He blinks when Lan Wangji halts them and engages with a small conversation with them. Afterwards, the Second Jade of Lan nods at the women with the phantom of a smile. Not a phantom enough that the ladies almost fall down the bridge upon receiving it.

Pouting, he prances the remaining steps and appears by Lan Wangji’s side the same moment the women have gone, whispering aggressively about his husband’s beauty. “Lan Zhan,” he sing songs. “I have bought the basket of loquats and, of course, Emperor’s Smile.” At his beloved’s nod, he couldn’t help tangling their hands together. “What…what did you talk about with those women?”

Why did you smile at them? Did you miss Gusu that much?

Lan Wangji blinks and retrieves something from inside his sleeve, a thing Wei Wuxian failed to notice because he ws busy wondering what those women have done to receive Lan Wangji’s smile. His heart swells with adoration when Lan Wangji takes out a flower crown comprising of magnolias and small peonies, placing it over Wei Wuxian’s head. “I noticed they were selling flower crowns. The smell and design are enticing. I figured you’ll like one.”

Flushing, he lightly touches the delicate petals sliding down near his ear. “Since when did you like me with flower crowns?”

“I like Wei Ying with anything.”

The blunt honesty could have stabbed him with a honey-covered sword and he wouldn’t feel a thing. “Damn it, Lan Zhan, I told you to warn me!” He chides childishly, poking his husband’s nose. “You look happy.”

“I’m happiest when Wei Ying is happy.”

Oh, dear Heavens, give me strength to endure these attacks.

Rolling his eyes fondly at his partner, he juggles the baskets and jars in his hands. To aid, he handed Suibian over to his husband. “Can you hold onto Suibian for me? I need to figure out how to hold all of these properly. Besides, Bichen misses him.”

Far too used with Wei Wuxian’s wild imagination, Lan Wangji reaches for Suibian with the hand that holds Bichen, his own right hand occupied with the gifts and souvenirs they have decided to buy for their friends and family.

Both of them freeze when the moment Lan Wangji’s fingers wrap around Suibian’s handle and pull it towards him, the sword unsheathes from its scabbard. Bichen sheathed, they stare at the released Suibian. Wei Wuxian places the baskets and jars on the side and takes his sword to sheathe it again. Then he points the handle towards Lan Wangji, a silent request.

The Second Jade of Lan takes a deep breath, wraps his fingers around the hilt to give it a pull. Suibian comes out of its scabbard without preamble, its blade gleaming with the high, and bright sun. They stare at the blade, wondering how it could be. Suibian would only unsheathe when it identifies the wielder as its owner.

A smile appears as he observes his husband touch the blade with gentle fingers. Suibian seems to sigh at the touch. “It recognized you as one of his owners,” He breathes in realization. “It is connected to me enough to know Jiang Cheng has my golden core, and you metaphorically have my heart. You are mine, as I am yours, and Suibian knows that – unsheathing for you.”

Lan Wangji raises his gaze at him, still in surprise. Unable to contain his bliss at such a development, Wei Wuxian jumps into his husband’s arms, almost stabbed by his own sword. Upon sheating Suibian, the Second Jade of Lan adjusts him into a more comfortable position on the other’s arms. Wei Wuxian giggles, leaning their foreheads against each other. “Happy Getting-Together Anniversary,” He murmurs, recalling jingshi and the talk that finally settled decades of missteps around each other, recalling a mistake that set their friends in action towards throwing them inside a room to get their shit together.

“Happy Anniversary,” Lan Wangji reciprocates.

“W-W-Wait, aren’t those Hanguang-Jun and the Yiling Patriarch…?!”

“Oh! I almost—why is Hanguang-Jun wearing black and red robes?”

“Hey, when you look closely, the Yiling Patriarch actually looks good in the GusuLan Sect uniform, huh?”

“Oh, they’re wearing each other’s clothes!”

There are splutters of embarrassment followed by this united realization.

As Wei Wuxian jumps down into the pavement, he picks up the baskets and jars of liquor, hooking his arm with Lan Wangji’s, still oblivious to the onlookers’ shock.

Lan Wangji tilts his head sideways, placing it on top of Wei Wuxian’s as they head towards a path they have gone down six months ago. “We’re back.”

Wei Wuxian couldn’t help himself. “Welcome to Gusu.”

To further stabilize their name in the cultivation world, Meilin has accepted the task of being the host for the next Cultivators’ Conference. It is not an easy feat, but with Gusu, Qinghe and Yunmeng behind him, Gen Lei has managed to welcome the event with enthusiasm and not much headaches. He has sent invites to most of the Sect Leaders – no matter how big or small their clan is – in support of the Twin Jades of Lan’s campaign to gain the trust of minor clans for the sake of preventing wars because of hatred and envy.

He is by the door, observing the parties that have already arrived. He blinks when a fresh peach comes into his view. When he travels his eyes down, he finds Huaisang holding onto the fruit, offering with a big smile. “Peach? It’s your favourite.”

Just to tease, he takes a bite of the fruit without holding onto it, causing the other to suck in a sharp breath. Despite his increasingly heating cheeks, he comments, “It’s fresh and sweet.”

Huaisang puffs his own flushing cheeks and takes a bite of the peach Gen Lei has just taken a taste of. He seems to know what he’s doing, looking right at Gen Lei when he nibbles right at the space beside where Gen Lei originally took a bite of it. Damn it, I fell into my trap. “It is,” Huaisang agrees, smiling innocently.

Gen Lei, that’s what you get for trying to outsmart the greatest schemer of all time. At the other’s still crimson cheeks, Gen Lei finds himself not regretting falling into that trap.

“—No way! I also told Zewu-Jun the night before I proposed that I would propose to you!” The words are followed by a loud, unique laughter that only belongs to one person. “Your brother is such a matchmaker!”

The response is short and expected. “Mn.”

Gen Lei’s eyes widened, and he looks at Huaisang to confirm whether he isn’t dreaming. Based on the other’s own shocked expression, it seems to be real. So, the both of them sprint out of the doors to find out for themselves.

It seems they aren’t the only one who have recognized the voices. Jiang Cheng has also ran out of the Meilin Administrative Office where he and Lan Xichen are preparing the copies for today’s discussion. As they expected, his first words are, “Wei Wuxian!” Lan Xichen has also arrived, a gentle, pleased smile on his face.

Indeed, walking in from the entrance are Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji – the newly-wedded couple who have suddenly disappeared days after the wedding in Cloud Recesses and celebration in Lotus Pier, leaving behind a single note that almost caused Lan Qiren’s heart attack.

Lan Wangji, ever a model disciple, bows down with natural grace. Beside him, Wei Wuxian raises a hand and waves. “Hello! We’re back.”

“Disappearing in six months, you dare appear all of a sudden! Do you know how long I—I mean, we tried to look for you! Let me strangle, I am going to strangle you!” Jiang Cheng growls in outrage, stepping forward.

Lan Xichen steps in, places a hand on the YunmengJiang Sect Leader and somehow with that hand alone, he manages to stop Jiang Cheng’s movement. “Jiang Cheng, calm down. They have come back. That’s what matters.” It might be physical strength. It might be that he’s Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng couldn’t and wouldn’t refuse him.

“But, Xiche—Zewu-Jun, they’re wearing each other’s clothes shamelessly!” Jiang Cheng grumbles, frowning.  Gen Lei bites his tongue to curb his curiosity on when the foregoing formalities began. Huaisang has been less successful, laughing behind his fan at the slip no one missed.

“Why are you wearing each other’s uniform?” Gen Lei questions with an eyebrow raised.

Wei Wuxian and he have become eternally antagonistic with each other. Not out of malice, but because of their history. Lan Wangji doesn’t seem concerned, knowing it’s friendly banter. “Why are you and Huaisang not married yet?”

Gen Lei splutters, unable to form a coherent thought, but Huaisang casually answers, “Zewu-Jun and Jiang Cheng arrived on that stage before us.”

The words almost sound like a joke, but they don’t seem impossible – not when Huaisang is looking at him like that.

Lan Xichen’s calm demeanor immediately vanishes. Jiang Cheng chokes, letting Zidian come to life as he poises for attack. Laughing, Huaisang uses Gen Lei as a human shield, shrieking, “Gen Liang!” whenever the YunmengJiang Sect Leader gets a little too close for comfort.

From a distance, they hear several voices chorus, “Hanguang-Jun, Senior Wei!” Then, the two newly-arrived guests are surrounded by their junior disciples, showered with souvenirs, gifts and re-tellings of the past six months.

Huaisang has climbed into his back, hiding from Jiang Cheng’s wrath. Lan Xichen has managed to calm the YunmengJiang Sect Leader down by stopping his attacks with a hand on the back of Jiang Cheng’s collar, chuckling softly at Jiang Cheng’s protests. Wei Wuxian laughs at Lan Sizhui’s embarrassed face over something he’s said and hides his son’s face in his chest. Lan Wangji shakes his head with a fond expression.

Gen Lei has once wished for his own happy ending, and to find the happiness Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian have.

Surrounded by the people he considers as friends laughing and full of life, having Huaisang beside him smiling widely, and witnessing Wei Wuxian stand on his toes to give Lan Wangji a kiss on the cheek, both love struck – tears cloud his sight. It has taken them all a little too long, but they have found their happy endings. Although, it is truly just the beginning.