Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian had spent his life trying to be unnoticeable, choking back his own aspirations and abilities to keep from rocking the fragile boat that was the Jiang Household. Like most things Wei Wuxian applied himself to, he was good at it. So good they didn’t even notice when he moved out of the back garage (a move he suggested himself) and into a tent in the woods. Because no one was going to notice him living in the woods. 

Largely because they were outside the Barrier, meaning the woods were filled with shades and specters. During the day, only those in the company of cultivators went outside the barriers. During the night? Well it was just Wei Wuxian, his tent and the things that went bump in the night. 

It did mean no one would see the barrier array Wei Wuxian invented to protect himself. It was a shame really, it was a work of beauty. Wei Wuxian doubted the Heir to the Barrier himself could do any better. One glance at it and the College of Cultivation would promote Wei Wuxian to the elite class in a heartbeat. Of course that would never happen, because then all that work to be unnoticeable would be for nothing. 

And Wei Wuxian was fine with that. He didn’t need to be part of the elite class to be a cultivator. Sure, the elite class got first dibs on their placement post graduation but there were plenty of jobs! Wei Wuxian would be able to find one where he could spread his wings without rocking the boat. He’d even be able to get his own apartment then, and he could kiss his tent goodbye. 

It was with that warm thought that Wei Wuxian marked off another day on his calendar, only 180 days left. He yawned as he curled up, the nylon of his sleeping bag rustling. It wasn’t the ideal nest, but it was what he had to work with. He shuffled a few pieces of his clothing around, before making sure he had his snacks and water nearby. He still technically had a day before his heat was supposed to start, but they’d come early before. 

“Are you sure you should do this?” A long drawl called from the zippered door of Wei Wuxian’s tent. 

It belonged to a lanky being stretched out, propping one arm up on the box behind them. They wore black, from the combat boots and jeans to the black turtle neck and hanfu robe they had styled as a coat. The only color was the long red tassel earring hanging from one ear. They’d braided their hair to show it off, the cascade of its deep silver black locks falling over their other shoulder. Their red phoenix shaped eyes watched Wei Wuxian’s every move. 

“I told you, not only did I reinforce the barriers with cloaking.” Wei Wuxian huffed as he curled up. “But they’re set up to pull from you instead of me, so my heat won’t cause them to fluctuate. I’m as safe as I was in the Jiang Garage.”

“We’ve never stayed out here during the day.” 

“I know Suibian,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. “See the cloaking addition in my previous comment.” 

“We didn’t get to test it.”
“I know,” Wei Wuxian sighed as he laid back into his nest. “Ideally I could have gotten a test run, but we’re out of time.” 

“Which is why we should go back to the garage.” 

“Suibian, you're a sword not a shield, so stop being so protective.” Wei Wuxian quipped back. 

“Technically I’m a spirit.”

“Spirit of a sword,” Wei Wuxian stressed the last word. “My sword, in case you forgot.” 

“Like you’d let me forget.” 

“Well, forgive me for thinking my sword would be more supportive of my choices.” 

“I would be, except apparently the universe gave me all the self preservation you lack.” Suibian snorted back. “At least get a hotel room.” 

“It’s not going to be-” Wei Wuxian broke off as an alarm sounded in his mind. From the way Suibian jerked to their feet, proof Wei Wuxian had successfully redesigned the barrier to include Suibian on sound notifications. 

“Nothing can get through them?” Suibian arched an eyebrow at Wei Wuxian. 

Wei Wuxian merely threw a scowl at them as he dove through the zippered door. The crisp night air filled his lungs as he rolled to his feet. His eyes were already scanning for the barrier breach, only to find none. He splayed his hand against the ground, a pulse of energy lighting up the array. 

Only to show it unbroken. 

Wei Wuxian’s brow furrowed. If his array was unbroken, what was the alarm from? His head whipped as he heard the snap of undergrowth. His eyes narrowed, the darkened forest sharpening as he focused. 

“It’s coming from the direction of our former encampment,” Suibian spoke, materializing over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. As with the spirits and specters, they made no sound when they moved. 

“I must have missed deactivating the alarms,” Wei Wuxian murmured. 

“Makes me wonder what else you might have forgotten.” 

“Aiyah,” Wei Wuxian huffed with a glare. “I told you, nothing is getting through my-” 

The words died on his lips as something flew over their heads and crashed into his tent. Wei Wuxian stared for a moment, his mouth open. 

“Nothing?” Suibian smirked. 

“I built defenses against every evil creature I could think of,” Wei Wuxian glared as he reached for a talisman tucked in his back pocket. He slowly approached his now crumpled tent. Specters and spirits were ruled out, unless they were wicked strong they couldn’t unconsciously interact with items in this world. Including crushing tents. 

“Clearly you missed one,” Suibian hissed. 

“Just,” Wei Wuxian broke off with a huff. “Shut it.” 

Suibian disappeared with a roll of their eyes, leaving Wei Wuxian to approach the tent on his own. He carefully lifted a piece that was covering the creature. Only for a laugh to break from his lips as he saw what had crumpled his tent. He’d forgotten a creature alright. 

Human!

Wei Wuxian couldn’t make much out as the man was face down. However, it was clear from the white robes that he was a cultivator. His long black hair was in a braid, a white ribbon stark against the dark locks. Wei Wuxian swore to himself at the sight of the ribbon. He kept his talisman ready as he turned the body over. 

And looking back at him was the Heir to the Barrier himself, Lan Wangji. 

“Shit,” Wei Wuxian swore as he heard more crashing through the forest. The whole ground seemed to shake as Wei Wuxian heard the thudding footsteps. Whatever the Heir to the Barrier was fighting, it was big. 

And now it was headed this way. 

Wei Wuxian’s wrist flicked, sending the talisman soaring out into the night. He felt it catch, just for a moment before it was broken. He gritted his teeth as he fished out another talisman, this time a light source. It flew off into the night, crashing into the creature and bursting into dozens of butterflies. 

Butterflies that illuminated…a turtle?

Wei Wuxian had to blink a few times to make sure that was what he was seeing. 

It was a giant turtle, reeking of negative energy. Wei Wuxian eyed his array, he’d set it up to repel negative energy in general he hadn’t planned for something this large. In theory his array could take it, but Wei Wuxian wasn’t eager to test it. All he could do was pray he’d done his cloaking addition right. 

He fished out another talisman to keep at the ready as he stared down the turtle. His own heartbeat was nearly as loud as the turtle's footsteps. Its head swiveled on its long neck, but it didn’t seem to be able to see the butterflies. It was getting closer, but from the angle it was going to go past Wei Wuxian’s encampment. 

Wei Wuxian jumped as he heard a low groan. His eyes widened as his head whipped back to the turtle, finding its scaly head trained perfectly in his camp's direction. Wei Wuxian made a mental note. 

Giant turtle; imbued with negative energy- poor sight but excellent hearing.  

For a glimmering moment he hoped the turtle wouldn’t head this way. It shattered as the turtle’s body followed its head, its thudding steps picking up speed. Wei Wuxian gritted his teeth as he splayed his hand out, trying to look for any sign the turtle wasn’t headed for his barrier. 

Ultimately he had to concede it was. 

“Suibian!” He called. After a moment of tearing canvas, the sheath of Suibian hit his palm. Wei Wuxian sent the talisman in his other hand soaring towards the turtle, a crackle of energy flaring around the turtle's body as it tried to hold him.

Wei Wuxian knew it would hold it, but he didn’t need it to hold. He just needed a few moments to draw Suibian from its sheath. He knew his array by heart, taking the three and a half steps forward and plunging Suibian into the reinforcement point. He let his energy flood into the blade. It made the array glow red, the color flooding up to tint the dome of the barrier red. 

The turtle crashed against it like it was a shockwave. Wei Wuxian gritted his teeth as he dug his heels in, the array flashing as he flooded more energy into it. The fact the turtle didn’t break through on the first attempt gave him hope. His barrier could withstand this. He just had to keep it fed. 

The crunching of leaves made Wei Wuxian’s head whip to the side. His eyes widened as he saw Lan Wangji on his feet. His blade was drawn, glowing a soft blue. His attention was on the array, as if examining it for weak points. 

“Forget about it,” Wei Wuxian gritted out, the array pulsing as he sent another wave in as the turtle reared back. This time when he hit, he didn’t glance off. Instead the energy wrapped around his head, bending under the force. It bounced back the moment it gave up. 

“The barrier will not hold.” 

“It will,” Wei Wuxian snapped. He watched the turtle rear back again and settled further into his stance to brace for impact. “You take one more step closer to my barrier and I’ll let this thing eat you.” He snapped as he saw white out of the corner of his eye. 

He spared a full glance, finding Lan Wangji’s attention focused on the turtle. His own attention was forced back to it as it slammed against the barrier again. It started to bend, but another wave of energy forced it back. Just as Wei Wuxian could catch his breath, he saw that white from the corner of his eye again. 

“Don’t you dare,” He hissed. 

“The barrier will fail.” 

“It will if you cross through it with a spiritually charged sword,” Wei Wuxian huffed. He adjusted his grip on Suibian’s hilt as he saw the turtle shift. Wei Wuxian grit his teeth as the shell loomed closer. His barrier would hold. It had to. 

As long as this idiot didn’t fuck it up. 

“Suibian!” Wei Wuxian shouted. Suibian rose from the blade like a mist, their hands settling over Wei Wuxian’s in a pulse of energy. The red of the array took on a more silvery tone. 

“Got it,” Suibian confirmed. Only then did Wei Wuxian release the blade, his body hurtling towards Lan Wangji. 

“I told you to not fucking go for the barrier,” They tumbled into the dirt, but only for a moment. A blast of energy pushing them apart. 

Wei Wuxian growled as he rolled back up to his feet. Lan Wangji was already up, no doubt using his own energy blast to his advantage. Still, there was a wariness to him now as he regarded Wei Wuxian. He didn’t have time to focus on it, as the large shell of the turtle went slamming into the barrier. 

“Suibian!” Wei Wuxian flew forward, his hands grasping lower down the blade as he added his own energy to the flow. 

“The shell must have more negative energy imbued in it,” Suibian gritted out. Any further discussion was lost as they had to focus. The barrier glowing almost neon from how much they were charging it with. 

Wei Wuxian flinched as a hand covered his.

“What are you-gahh” Wei Wuxian broke off with a gasp as energy as cold as ice flooded through him. He hurried to cycle it through his system, expelling it out and into the barrier. The barrier flared purple for a moment, the turtle pushed back. 

Wei Wuxian gasped for breath as he slowed the energy flow, eyeing the turtle for its next move. 

“It won’t give up,” Lan Wangji murmured. “And you can’t keep this up all night.” 

“Watch me,” Wei Wuxian shot back. Despite his bravado, he could feel the sweat dripping down his back. He eyed the turtle. Its hulking body was already readying itself for another shell attack. 

He heard a huff from Lan Wangji as he walked away. His head craned as he moved towards his tend. 

“What are you doing? That’s my tent!” He demanded as Lan Wangji grabbed one of the ropes. 

“Its shell is impenetrable,” Lan Wangji sliced the rope off. His sword was sheathed as he began to wind it around his hands. “We need to draw its head out and attack its neck.” 

“Or we wait until it tires out,” Wei Wuxian shot back. “My barrier will hold.” 

“I need you to distract it, then I can lasso its neck.”
“I’m a bit focused on the barrier right now,” Wei Wuxian huffed, only to startle as Suibian’s hands lifted off of it. “What are you doing?” 

“Being a distraction,” Suibian slid through the barrier. 

“Traitor,” Wei Wuxian glared. 

“We both know you can’t hold it, not right now.” Suibian dropped their voice. The reaction was instant in the turtle. Its head is swiveling to the front again. Wei Wuxian gritted his teeth, cursing his oncoming heat. If he was at 100% this would be a different story. “Come on, you ugly beast.” Suibian taunted the turtle. Their form took on weight, crunching the leaves beneath his feet. 

Wei Wuxian’s jaw tightened as he saw the turtle’s head rear back. It struck out as fast as a snake, but Suibian was faster. They vanished in the blink of an eye, meaning the turtle’s head slammed into the barrier. Wei Wuxian adjusted his energy flow, allowing the head to bend the barrier inward. 

“You gonna lasso this thing or what?” Wei Wuxian snapped at Lan Wangji. 

A moment later, a string of bright blue energy wrapped around the indentation caused by the turtle. The moment it started to tighten, it sliced through the barrier. Wei Wuxian let it fall, pulling Suibian from the earth in a smooth motion as he darted forward. The long neck stretched, and there at the base of the long neck Wei Wuxian saw a shift in the scales. Flooding the rest of his energy into Suibian, he struck. 

Wei Wuxian danced away from the turtle, its last few heartbeats painting the ground with its thick black blood. Wei Wuxain groaned as he flicked Suibian, sending the blood on the blade flying off. He didn’t care where it went, since his barrier was destroyed regardless. 

“You are welcome,” Lan Wangji regarded Wei Wuxian after a moment of silence. His tone clear that he was offended Wei Wuxian didn’t offer his thanks. 

“Welcome?” Wei Wuxian scoffed as he stalked forward. “Yes, thank you for destroying my tent and my barrier. Now I’m going to have to see what I can salvage and go find a new campsite in the dark!” 

“You shouldn’t be out here in the first place.” 

“Says who?” 

“The barrier is around the city for everyone’s safety,” Lan Wangji’s jaw tightened. “To be caught outside it after dark is asking for death.” 

“Just because you say it doesn’t make it so,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes as he moved towards his tent. “I’ve been out here for months and perfectly safe.” He started to sort. 

“The turtle corpse would say otherwise.” 

“That turtle was going to walk by my campsite until you groaned and gave away our position!” 

“It would have smelled you regardless.” 

“Do you not see the remains of what was a glorious barrier?” Wei Wuxian gestured to the ground. 

“If you had it dampened for sound, smell and sight why did it hear me groan?” 

“That’s-” Wei Wuxian broke off. That was a damn good question. He’d directly translated the blocking talismans in, why hadn’t they worked? Maybe it was their placement in the array? Technically they were made for rooms with solid walls, but the barrier was technically a wall of solid energy. When he tested it, the area had vanished. He hadn’t had a good way to test the sound and smell part, largely since Suibian was his sword's spirit so Wei Wuxian could always hear them. It wasn’t like they had a smell either. “So maybe my additions weren’t perfect! Excuse me for not getting it right on the first try!” 

“You-” Lan Wangji broke off. “First try?” 

“I’d like to see you to do better,” Wei Wuxian huffed as started shoving his nest into his backpack, before having to roll up his sleeping bag. As for the tent?

  Well, they weren’t meant to be fallen upon. Or summoning a sword out of. The canvas would be easy enough to repair, but the tent poles were a different matter. Still, it wasn’t like he could just go and buy a new one. 

“You’re an omega.” 

Lan Wangji was suddenly so close that Wei Wuxian could feel the breath on the back of his neck. 

“Wow, ever heard of personal space?” He danced away. His hand goes up to clamp over the back of his neck. 

“What class are you in?” Lan Wangji demanded. “Which family are you a part of? What-” 

Wei Wuxian let out a sigh of relief as Lan Wangji froze. 

“Thanks Suibian,” He exhaled. Suibian merely nodded from behind Lan Wangji, their hand still pressed to Lan Wangji’s back with the talisman. 

“He’s pretty strong,” Suibian murmured, dropping their hand.  “We better move fast.” 

Wei Wuxian quickly bundled up the rest of his tent, his skin prickling the whole time. He glanced at Lan Wangji once, his mouth running dry as he saw the gold eyes trained on him. Goosebumps broke out across his skin. He didn’t worry about tidiness, merely bundling the rest of the tent in his arms. 

He didn’t look back at Lan Wangji. 

“How long do you think we have?” Wei Wuxian murmured to Suibian as they started to walk. 

“Five minutes?” Suibian exhaled. 

“He’s that strong?” Wei Wuxian paled. Suibian nodded. 

“I don’t like the way he started looking at you the moment he realized you were an omega,” Suibian added, glancing back. “I suggest we fly.” 

“Well, guess you got your wish after all,” Wei Wuxian muttered. “It’ll have to be the garage until I can get this tent fixed.” He paused when he heard nothing from Suibian. He looked over, finding Suibian looking back at Lan Wangji. “What’s wrong?” 

“I just have a bad feeling.” 

“Great,” Wei Wuxian muttered as Suibian vanished. Wei Wuxian pulled the blade from its sheath, stepping aboard. “Nothing ominous about that.” 

Chapter Text

“You look horrendous.” 

“Good morning to you too, Huaisang.” Wei Wuxian yawned as he dropped into his seat. He’d been up most the night fixing his tent, well trying to at least. Returning to the Jiang’s garage had made him uneasy, to the point he couldn’t even make a nest. Even Suibian had to admit the only option now was the tent. Which would be more reassuring if it was a tent and not a pile of scraps, even after a full night’s work. 

“I don’t suppose you did the homework,” Nie Huaisang questioned. 

“We had homework?” 

“Typical,” Nie Huaisang sighed. “Suppose I’ll have to do it myself.” He turned his attention to the sheet in front of him. “I’ll just alternate between B and C.” He said after a moment’s compilation. 

“Please, everyone knows Mr. Ouyang makes every third answer C.” Wei Wuxian yawned as he stretched over his desktop. “Wake me up if something exciting happens?” 

“The only thing I promise is to tell you about it later.” Nie Huaisang hummed, busying himself with marking his answers. Wei Wuxian let out an acknowledging sleepy hum in return. 

“Wei-xiong! Wei-xiong, wake up!” Nie Huaisang jostled him out of his sleep. 

“What?” Wei Wuxian let out a groggy groan as he swam to consciousness. 

“They’re summoning all the classes for inspection! Of course it had to be the day I’m out of uniform!” Nie Huaisang swore. “Lend me your jacket?” 

“You're still gonna get written up,” Wei Wuxian said regarding Nie Huaisang’s outfit. 

Each class had their own uniforms, simplified from the more traditional robes cultivators used to wear. The loose pants were gathered at the knees, paired with the shirt and a short hanfu coat. While these were mostly considered manageable, most had issues with the stuffy boots or the alternative wraps designed to cover the exposed calves. So, a dress code had been written to give some leeway with the classic uniform. 

The only thing Nie Huaisang had close to the uniform was the green color of their class. He wore a pair of green joggers paired with a grey cropped sweater, purposely long in the sleeves. The cherry on top was the belly button ring, the dangling fan charm a flagrant disregard of the ruling of no ‘combat risk’ jewelry. On a normal day, their class was beneath notice for dress code violations. Hell, on a normal day their class was beneath anyone’s notice. They’d had teachers fail to show up before. The only time anyone cared about them was on inspection days. 

Of course, they neglected to tell them when those days were, which only resulted in the class only slipping lower in everyone's estimation as they were written up. 

“We’re both going to get written up regardless,” Nie Huaisang huffed. “Just help lessen the blow on my head, please?” He clasped his hands together as he pleaded. 

Wei Wuxian sighed, of all the days for him to be mostly in uniform. 

“Thank you so much Wei-xiong!” 

“Don’t mention it,” Wei Wuxian sighed, unable to resist squirming. The uniform shirts were notoriously thin, designed with the jackets in mind. It was usually the first thing people switched out. Wei Wuxian was only wearing it today because his stupid omega hind brain was hoarding his dirty laundry. Coupled with the fact he was wearing a pair of van slides, leaving his calves open to the world, he was left feeling very exposed. 

“Do you want my sweater?” Nie Huaisang questioned, pausing in his motions to put the jacket on. 

“Just give the jacket back as soon as the inspection is over,” Wei Wuxian reached up to tug his hair out of its ponytail. His unease settled with his hair around his shoulders. He tried to play it off as hiding his own piercings. 

“Oh,” Nie Huaisang breathed. 

“What?” Wei Wuxian’s defenses went slamming back up. 

“That time?” Nie Huaisang arched an eyebrow. “You know I could set you up with someone.” 

“We are not discussing this,” Wei Wuxian snapped, heading for the hall. They’d already delayed to the point they were going to be the last ones to the assembly hall. 

“Come on!” Nie Huaisang laughed as he followed. “I know a lot of good alphas w-” 

“Say it a little louder will you?” Wei Wuxian hissed, his hand slapping over Nie Huaisang’s mouth. Nie Huaisang reached up to bat his hand away. 

“I don’t get what the big deal is,” Nie Huaisang huffed. “Second genders don’t matter any more! Everyone knows I’m an omega, but it’s because I don’t apply myself that I’m ranked last in the whole college.” 

“It’s not,” Wei Wuxian groaned. “You know how I said you’re one of the only people who know? Well you're the only one who knows.” 

“You mean besides your doctor, your family and the school-” 

“No,” Wei Wuxian cut him off. “No one else knows.” 

“But that’s impossible, you have to have suppressants and-” Nie Huaisang broke off as Wei Wuxian tugged open his shirt, showing off the talisman he had stuck to his chest. “Wei-xiong,” He blinked at it. “Why is there an outdated suppressant talisman on your chest?” 

“Because they didn’t have ingredients for the suppressant drug in the library?” Wei Wuxian tugged his shirt back into place. 

“Because you can go to any clinic in town and they can prescribe them for you!” Nie Huaisang huffed. “You don’t even need insurance!” 

“Except any clinic in town is going to request my medical records,” Wei Wuxian started walking towards the assembly hall again. 

“Why is that a problem?” 

“Because I’ve only ever seen the Jiang family doctor,” Wei Wuxian sighed. “So if he gets a request for my medical records from another doctor, he’s going to mention it to the Jiangs. Which will open a whole can of worms I can’t even begin to think about how to deal with.” 

“Wei-xiong,” Nie Huaisang murmured. “Are things really that bad between you and your family?”  

“I live in a tent,” Wei Wuxian huffed. “What do you think?” 

“Wei-xiong,” Nie Huaisang murmured. 

“Let’s get this inspection over with, shall we?” Wei Wuxian dodged a further conversation, already upset at himself for revealing as much as he did. He was a bit more at ease now, so he supposed he could chalk it up to his heat. The safety of having someone who knew what he was going through. 

Thankfully, as the lowest ranked class they were in the back of the assembly hall. It was easy enough to slip in as late as they were. Someone was already droning on from the podium, but before Wei Wuxian’s eyes could drift away from the stage they caught on the chiseled features of Lan Wangji. 

Gone were the signs of the previous night’s battle. Instead he was a faultless statue, clad neatly in the pure white uniform of the school’s elite class. His hair was neatly braided, his hands clasped behind his back. The only thing that showed there was a hint of life in him was the shifting gold of his eyes as he surveyed the assembled students. 

“I see his eminence has chosen to grace us with his presence,” A classmate snorted a few heads down. “Shouldn’t he be manning the Barrier instead of inspecting our uniforms?” 

Wei Wuxian tilted his head as he studied the Heir to the Barrier himself. 

Lan Wangji was an enigma to the masses. No one knew why the second son was declared the Heir to the Barrier, but plenty of rumors abound. The most commonly believed one was because he was an alpha while his older brother was only a beta. It was also the most commonly disregarded, as Nie Huaisang had been correct when he said stigma against gender had mostly been abolished. Wei Wuxian didn’t really care about why he was chosen. 

No, Wei Wuxian was more interested in why he was still the heir . The last Barrier Master had died a few years ago, yet Lan Wangji had not taken his place. Even now, with the Barrier weakening it is still just heir . Wei Wuxian scanned over the gathered students, wondering how many of them knew the Barrier was failing. That they could be thrust into a battle at any moment if the Barrier wasn’t reinforced soon. Wei Wuxian was snapped out of his thoughts as gold eyes met his, a flash of something running between them. His eyes widened, before flying to look anywhere else in the assembly hall. 

Unfortunately they landed on the second worst option in the room. 

Jiang Cheng. 

Well, more accurately the back of Jiang Cheng’s head. The dark locks were bundled neatly in a bun, so it looked like he’d managed to grow it out longer. Wei Wuxian remembered the fights he used to have with his mother over it, one of the few that didn’t involve Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian felt a smile tug at his lips. It was little things like that that made his efforts worth it. Signs the Jiangs were a happier family without him. 

“Wei-xiong,” Nie Huaisang hissed. “Why does it look like Lan Wangji is staring at you?” 

Wei Wuxian blinked, his attention flickering back to the stage. True to Nie Huaisang’s words, he found those gold eyes still trained on him. He felt his heart skip a beat. Did Lan Wangji recognize him? 

“No clue,” Wei Wuxian lied as he looked away. “Maybe he’s just looking at the clock, wondering when this hell will end.” 

“Have you met him?” Nie Huaisang snorted. “This is probably like porn to him. Nothing more exciting for a Lan than strict regulations and dull lectures.” 

“Think he’s hard?” Wei Wuxian felt a smile tug at his lips as he played along. 

“Hard to tell with those pants,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “Part of me thinks he has a big dick, but it makes me sad knowing it’s unused.” 

Wei Wuxian couldn’t smother his laugh. 

“Who knows, maybe he’s a secret sex fiend.” 

“Please, if he was I would have heard rumors by now.” 

“Silence!” A teacher snapped from the side of the room. Wei Wuxian and Nie Huaisang tried to smother their laughs, which would have been easier if they hadn’t kept shooting each other's looks.

“I can’t believe they gave us detention for talking!” Nie Huaisang seethed as they left. “Like we’re some high schoolers instead of adults!”

“Be thankful they didn’t write you up for the dress code,” Wei Wuxian shot back as he shrugged on his jacket. His hands carded his hair back up into a ponytail, a sense of ease restored with the thick collar of the coat covering his nape. 

“I expected that, but this?! Da-ge is going to kill me.” Nie Huaisang groaned. 

“You could move out, live on your own.” Wei Wuxian hummed. 

“Live in a tent?” Nie Huaisang raised an eyebrow. 

“I know a guy if you're looking,” Wei Wuxian shrugged, trying to play it off nonchalantly. 

“I thought I’d stop having to worry about all this once I turned 18,” Nie Huaisang bemoaned. “Instead Da-ge tells me I can’t have my trust fund until after I get certified as a cultivator.” 

At least you have a trust fund. Wei Wuxian winced at the resentful thought. He really should look into a new talisman, maybe one to regulate hormones. Or maybe he could find someone who’d prescribe him suppressants no questions asked. Until then it was good he was a master at masking. 

“Is that what they have over you?” Nie Huaisang prodded.

“What?” Wei Wuxian blinked.

“Are they withholding your trust fund?”

“I don’t have a trust fund Huaisang.”

“Then what? Do you owe a debt?”

“I guess?” Wei Wuxian’s face scrunched up as he tried to consider it. “It’s just easier if I don’t make any trouble.” 

“And telling them you presented is trouble, and not just a natural process?” Nie Huaisang tried to fish the answer out of Wei Wuxian. 

“You know how it is.” Wei Wuxian winced. “You’ve got an older brother, don’t you want to stay out of his shadow?”

“No, I’d rather be safely behind him.” Nie Huaisang shook his head. “Much safer that way.”

“Well,” Wei Wuxian faltered trying to figure out how to explain it. “It’s better if I don’t cast a shadow at all. I’m not the heir to the family, you know? Just some brat they took in off the street.” 

“I remember when we were little,” Nie Huaisang murmured, sounding surprisingly serious for once. “Everyone talked about how much talent you had, how it was a shame.”

A shame he wasn’t the heir to the Jiang Family .

The words that started it all. Wei Wuxian had found the comment ridiculous, Madam Yu had not. If she’d just made his life harder, he wouldn’t have worried about it. 

But she’d gone after Jiang Cheng too. Every time Wei Wuxian scored better, Jiang Cheng got a lecture and more work to make sure it didn’t happen again. Everytime Wei Wuxian was praised, he’d come home to Madam Yu demanding why Jiang Cheng hadn’t. Then one day Wei Wuxian got sick, he performed badly on an exercise.

And the house had been silent. No praise, but no scolding either. So Wei Wuxian let it happen again, and then again. He realized if he let Jiang Cheng beat him, everyone was happier. He just had to apply it to everything. He couldn’t blatantly fail, but if he did good enough to fly by unnoticed everyone would be happy.

“Used to drive me mad, how da- ge would ask why I wasn’t like you,” Nie Huaisang exhaled. “I only stopped being annoyed when you stopped being so bright,” He frowned. “I suppose that makes me as bad as them.” 

“If it makes you feel better I needed some knocking back down to earth,” Wei Wuxian tried to make light of it.  

“You know, you don’t have to live in a tent,” Nie Huaisang bumped into him. “There’s plenty of space in the Nie Manor.” 

“Mm,” Wei Wuxian hummed noncommittally, wondering how to even start explaining how bad it would be if the Jiangs found out he’d moved into another family's estate. It was the same reason he didn’t try to get an apartment. “I’m quite fond of my tent, you know, great air circulation. You should really consider it.” 

“Shouldn’t you two gentlemen be in class?” A monitor called down the hall. 

“We were held up at the assembly!” Nie Huisang called back, instinctively picking up his pace. “Come on, before they give us another detention!” 

In the monitors' defense, they didn’t give the extra detention. Their teacher was the one who gave it, though it started at a warning of tardiness until Nie Huaisang accidently debated it into a double detention. So, instead of finding some hidden grove to hunker down for his heat, Wei Wuxian was washing chalk practice arrays off the floor. 

“Expert technique there,” Wei Wuxian quipped as he looked up from where he was on his knees scrubbing. Nie Huaisang hadn’t lowered himself to the floor, instead he had a wet rag under foot inching along the chalk marks with it. 

“Please, I’m not ruining my nails for this.” Nie Huaisang huffed. Wei Wuxian let out a low groan as he stood, an ache already gnawing away at his lower abdomen. “Are you going to be good for this?”
“Don’t worry, I’m not going to flake on you.” Wei Wuxian snorted as he dropped his own rag into the water bucket. “Though would it kill them to invest in a mop?” He pushed the bucket to the next array with his foot. He eyed it. 

Surely there should be a talisman to do this. Though on thinking it through he couldn’t come up with one he knew. There was one for cleaning up monster evesera but he wasn’t sure it would apply to chalk. Though maybe if he edited it. Wei Wuxian picked up a stray piece of chalk, his hands working quickly as he worked through his idea.

“Wei-xiong?” Nie Huaisang hovered over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “What are you doing? We’re supposed to be cleaning up the chalk, not putting more down.” 

“Just give me a second,” Wei Wuxian waved his hand. His other hand continued to scrawl, until he finally had it down. He fished a blank talisman out of his pocket and transcribed, charging it and slapping it down on the floor. He watched the chalk lift up, before seeking the talisman like a magnet. 

“Whoa!” Nie Huaisang breathed. “Why didn’t you start with that?” 

“I didn’t think of it until now.” Wei Wuxian hummed absentmindedly. His focus was on the fact that it only cleaned a small section of the floor.

“What do you mean you didn’t think of it until now?” Nie Huaisang questioned. “Did you come up with this?” 

“Technically it’s just an adaptation of the evesera scrubber talisman,” Wei Wuxian hummed and apparently the change to chalk instead of guts affected the range. Maybe if he adjusted this character? He scratched out a new talisman. 

Only this time when he slapped it down it ignited. 

“Shit!” Wei Wuxian wheeled back. Nie Huaisang reacted fast, toppling the bucket of water and extinguishing the fire. 

“Okay, now I believe you that you came up with it.” Nie Huaisang exhaled as they watched the water seep across the floor. 

“Sorry, I was trying to expand the radius.” Wei Wuxian scratched the side of his face. “Not sure how it ignited.” 

“Well, on the bright side it looks like the chalk is all gone,” Nie Huaisang eyed the floor. “Now we just have to handle the water and the scorch marks before anyone finds out.” The two jumped as the door to the room rattled open. 

To reveal Lan Wangji on the other side. Wei Wuxian blinked as the man’s eyes swept over the room, only to lock on to him. 

“We’re working, I swear!” Nie Huaisang’s flight or fight response triggered. His body lurching forward to push a rag around the puddle of water they’d created. 

“Nie Huaisang,” Lan Wangji’s tone was curt. “Leave.” 

“What?” Nie Huaisang jerked to a stop. 

“Leave.” Lan Wangji repeated. 

“I have a detention to finish, I can’t just leave Wei-” 

“I have business with Wei Wuxian,” Lan Wangji’s tone took on the barest hint of a growl. “I excuse you from detention, so leave.” 

“Uh,” Nie Huaisang glanced at Wei Wuxian. “Wei-xiong isn’t feeling well, I promised to give him a ri-” 

“LEAVE,” Lan Wangji growled. The smell of smoldering sandalwood flooded the room, making Wei Wuxian’s head spin. It was a good thing he was already on the ground. 

“I, I-” Nie Huaisang scurried towards the door. He paused for a moment looking back, only for Lan Wangji to give another growl. “I’m sorry Wei-xiong!” He fled. 

He sounded like he was on the other end of a tunnel. Wei Wuxian tried to focus on his breathing, but each breath of sandalwood only made it worse. The heat that he’d been keeping at bay suddenly roared in his ears. He fumbled for his pocket, trying to find another suppressant talisman. 

“Wei Wuxian,” Lan Wangji stepped into the room. The door fell shut with a thud. “I have been looking for you. I have a-” His hand darted out, clamping like a vice around Wei Wuxian’s wrist as he pulled out the suppressant talisman.

“Ah!” Wei Wuxian gasped. Pain shot up Wei Wuxian’s arm, the talisman fluttering down to the water logged floor next to him. As the pain faded, it left a burning heat in its wake. 

He was so warm. Wei Wuxian took another sandalwood tainted breath. His head spinning as his eyes dropped to plump lips that were so close. Then with a jolt, the fog lifted. Wei Wuxian shook the last of it from his head, hearing the crinkling of talisman paper on his neck as he did.

“Are you alright?” Lan Wangij’s voice was low in his ear. The heat that had just left Wei Wuxian’s face suddenly came roaring back, as he realized the heat still in his left side was because he was pulled flush against Lan Wangji. He jerked away, only to be held fast by an arm around his waist. 

“I’m fine,” Wei Wuxian put a hand on Lan Wangji’s chest in an attempt to push away. “No thanks to you. You should know better than to throw your scent around.”  

“I didn’t realize you’d be so,” Lan Wangji paused. His eyes dropped to Wei Wuxian’s lips. “Susceptible.” 

 “Anyone in pr-” Wei Wuxian broke off as he realized exactly what his situation was. He was alone in a room with an untouchable alpha and nothing more than a suppressant talisman keeping his heat in check. 

“It’s a good sign,” Lan Wangji seemed oblivious to Wei Wuxian’s horrified realization. His eyes seemed to smolder as he met Wei Wuxian’s gaze. “Of our compatibility.” 

 “Compatibility?” Wei Wuxian couldn’t only repeat dumbfounded. 

“Mn.” Lan Wangji’s hum sent a shiver down Wei Wuxian’s spine. It pushed him to push against Lan Wangji again. “What are you doing?”
“What am I doing? You come in here throwing your scent around and now you're not letting me go while talking about our compatibility? I’m trying to run!” 

“Do not,” Lan Wangji’s arm tightened. Only for his eyes to widen, his arm loosening a moment later. “I apologize. Time has made me hasty.” 

“So much for the righteous Lans,” Wei Wuxian muttered as he quickly retreated. Unfortunately Lan Wangji was still in the doorway, so he was still trapped. His hand went to the qiankun pouch in his pocket, opening it enough to give Suibian a way to come out if needed. 

“I,” Lan Wangji flinched at Wei Wuxian’s words. A hand came up to pinch his brow for a moment as he took a deep breath. “You have my deepest apologies,” He bowed a moment later. “Time has made me desperate, but it does not excuse my behavior. My intention was just to talk to you. Please, just give me a few minutes of your time.” 

Wei Wuxian studied Lan Wangji for a moment. Unlike with Nie Huaisang before, there was no aggression in Lan Wangji’s tone or stance anymore. If anything there was almost a tired pathetic tone to him. Still Wei Wuxian couldn’t rule out that it wouldn’t return. 

“Four minutes,” Wei Wuxian turned his attention to the classroom windows. He wondered if he could break through one before Lan Wangji crossed the space to him. He was pretty confident. If not, Suibian could tackle and give him a chance to get through the door. He felt a bit more at ease with escape plans in place. 

“I’m looking for a partner.” 

“Doesn’t the elite class assign those?” 

“Not in school work,” Lan Wangji huffed. “I need a long term cultivation partner, a mate.” 

“Not sure how I can help there,” Wei Wuxian inched towards the window. “But I’m sure any mother in the city would be more than happy to suggest someone.” 

“None of them can match me,” Lan Wangji replied. “I didn’t think anyone in the city could, until last night.” He watched Wei Wuxian take another step towards the window. “I want you, and I’m willing to offer anything in return.” 

I want you . 

The words made Wei Wuxian’s head spin as much as the heat had. Madam Yu had thought him a nuisance, she needed him to disappear. Jiang Fengiman needed him to fill the space left by his parents. Jiang Cheng needed him to be unremarkable, to be second best to please his parents. Even Nie Huaisang needed him to copy his homework. Everyone needed him to be something. 

But no one had wanted him. 

“You want me?” Wei Wuxian offered lamely. “Aren’t we a little young to be taking mates?” 

“If my father was alive I’d have more time,” Lan Wangji exhaled. “I need a mate to take over the family and the Barrier.” 

“Why me?” Wie Wuxian was stuck on that, despite the thousand of questions flying through his mind. 

“No one has been able to withstand my energy before,” Lan Wangji’s eyes were steady. Wei Wuxian could see nothing but honesty reflected in the gold. “But you did last night. From your uniform I knew you were a student, but I was surprised to find you in Class E considering your talents.” 

“It’s a long story,” Wei Wuxian scratched the side of his face awkwardly. “So you just want me for my cultivation?” 

“Not entirely,” Lan Wangji’s gaze finally shifted away from Wei Wuxian. It let him see a flash of a red ear through Lan Wangji’s hair. “You are also attractive, and we appear to be highly compatible if we were to consider scents.” He glanced back at Wei Wuxian, this time holding his gaze. “I believe you are the best candidate to be my mate.” 

“Ah well,” Wei Wuxian felt himself blush despite everything. “We hardly know each other.” He looked away.

“I don’t have the luxury of dating.” 

“Why?” Wei Wuxian’s curiosity got the better of him. “Surely it can’t be just because of tradition.” 

“The Barrier,” Lan Wangji replied, his gaze moving towards the window. Towards the shimmering mirage-like illusion that encompassed the city. “It requires both Yin and Yang energy.” 

“So that’s why you were chosen as heir,” Wei Wuxian connected. The eldest Lan was a beta, while he was a cultivator his yang energy signature would never be as strong as an alpha cultivator’s. 

“That's why I must find a mate before the Barrier fails,” Lan Wangji nodded. 

“So you're saying if I don’t become your mate, the Barrier will fail?” Wei Wuxian chuckled. “That's a heavy pick up line.” 

“Any mate could do,” Lan Wangji exhaled. “But it will be more stable if they can match my ability.” 

“But there are other candidates.” 

“Not to me. You are the only one I want.” 

“You,” Wei Wuxian groaned as he leaned against a nearby desk, his mind spinning from all the information dropped on him.  

“You would not be uncompensated,” Lan Wangji moved closer. “You’d have the status and privileges of being my mate. If there is a job or position you’d like, I’ve got contacts. Even if you wished to go to another city, as long as you returned periodically to charge the barrier with me it would be permitted.” 

“You could get me a job in the research sector?” A flicker of desire ignited in Wei Wuxian’s chest. 

“Director, if you desired.” 

“Nothing so grand,” Wei Wuxian balked. Madam Yu would be furious.

“Perhaps a talisman designer?” Lan Wangji’s eyes flickered down to the talisman on Wei Wuxian’s neck. 

“Just an entry level position?” Wei Wuxian offered. It would be the least suspicious to the Jiangs. Thankfully the research division wasn’t highly sought after, not like Nigh Hunt Agents. 

“Consider it done.” Lan Wangji nodded. “Though I can’t guarantee an easy climb, the head of Research hates nepotism. It’ll be hard work to be promoted, especially as my mate.” 

The words were a splash of cold water to his face. He hadn’t really been considering this, had he? What, all it took was one job offer and he’d metaphorically drop his pants? What would Madam Yu think? The thought turned Wei Wuxian’s stomach. It would be lighting the fuse on the powderkeg. If he was announced as Lan Wangji’s mate, everyone would want to know why he’d be chosen. All his work to hide his abilities, his gender, blown open in one swift move. The Jiangs would think he played them. 

“I can’t,” Wei Wuxian breathed. His gaze dropped to the floor. 

“Why?” 

“It’s,” Wei Wuxian broke off as fingers lifted his chin. The solid gold gaze gave him nowhere to run. “So much attention.” He saw those gold eyes narrow. 

“What is holding you back,” Lan Wangji murmured. “Why do you hide your abilities?” 

“You wouldn’t understand,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. His chin slid off of Lan Wangji’s fingers, the ghost of their warmth remaining. 

“What if,” Lan Wangji paused. “Your name wasn’t disclosed? You could wear a mask or veil in public.” Wei Wuxian looked back at Lan Wangji surprised.

“Is that even possible?” 

“I can make it possible,” Lan Wangji nodded. “Only my immediate family and a few elders would have to know your identity. I can make them swear to secrecy.” 

“That seems like a lot of effort,” Wei Wuxian balked. “Just for me.” 

“Not to me,” Lan Wangji hummed. “I want you as my mate.” 

I want you . 

“Say I agree,” Wei Wuxian felt his face heat. He was unable to look at Lan Wangji. “What would happen next?” 

“There is a binding ceremony for situations like this, connecting us to the Barrier.” Lan Wangji explained. “It would be done before our next cycle, though seeing how my rut is this week your heat would need to be induced. After that we can take on the formalities of you becoming my mate at a slower pace.” 

“Not much time to think about it,” Wei Wuxian exhaled. 

“If I could push my rut to give you more time, I would.” Lan Wangji said apologetically. 

“Ah, well,” Wei Wuxian felt his cheeks burn hotter. “My cycle is this week too.” 

“A sign,” Lan Wangji seemed to chuckle. The sound made Wei Wuxian’s heart skip a beat. 

He fought to bring himself back in control. Was he really thinking about this? Just becoming someone’s mate because they asked? He glanced at Lan Wangji. He was handsome. Financials wouldn’t be an issue either. He wouldn’t live on school meals anymore. Then there was a the job. But what about the romance? His future family? 

“What about children?” Wei Wuxian blurted.

“Children?” The question seemed to surprise Lan Wangji. 

“Yeah,” Wei Wuxian nodded. “Would we be obligated to make an heir?” 

“No, the heir could be provided by my brother.” 

“So no kids?” Wei Wuxian hated how his heart sank. He couldn’t even look at Lan Wangji. 

“It’s,” Lan Wangji broke off. Wei Wuxian glanced at him out of the corner of his eye, seeing a flush creeping down Lan Wangji’s neck. “It will take time to settle in as my position as head of the family. But in time,” He coughed. “I would not be opposed.” 

It pulled a laugh from Wei Wuxian. 

“Did I say something funny?” 

“No,” Wei Wuxian exhaled, his hands coming up to rub his face. “I just feel like I’m going insane.” He was considering this. 

He was actually considering this. 

Why wouldn’t he? It was a home, a job, a family all served up on a silver platter. He’d have a shower that wasn’t in locker rooms that smelled like feet. He wouldn’t have to worry about his tent leaking or collapsing in on him in the middle of the night. He could get dressed standing up! Not just that, he would be able to see the Barrier wards up close and personal. He could help protect the city, without anyone knowing. 

But if the Jiangs did find out. 

At the same time, he was so tired. Maybe he could use this, slowly break some news to the Jiangs. Then, once the timing was right he could step out from under the veil. He could be his own person. He just needed to make sure it didn’t happen before he was ready. He looked at Lan Wangji, his heart skipping at the almost puppy dog air around the alpha. If he needed someone dependable, well the Lans had kept the barrier up for centuries. 

“As long as my identity is kept secret,” Wei Wuxian swallowed drily. 

“You have my word,” Lan Wangji took a sharp inhale of breath. “I will do everything in my power to keep your identity a secret. But once we make this bond, it can not be undone or the Barrier will suffer. I can offer compensation, a position in a different city if you wish to start over.” 

Wei Wuxian mulled over the information. Maybe he could ask for something to combat the Jiang’s wrath if he was found out early? But getting Jiang Cheng a high position would only hurt his reputation if it was found out. Maybe social aspects? 

“You’ll only be known as Lan Furen-” 

“Lan Furen,” Wei Wuxian repeated, like lightning striking him. 

How could Madam Yu be upset with him for upstaging Jiang Cheng on this? It’s not like Jiang Cheng was an omega. He didn’t have the option to marry a high ranking alpha. On top of it, he could say all of his achievements came from being married to Lan Wangji. It would remove him from competing with Jiang Cheng. It wouldn’t defuse a situation if he was found out, but it was an excuse Madam Yu could use. She could say they distanced themselves from Wei Wuxian because of his power grabbing tendencies. 

“If you don’t like the name-” 

“It’s fine,” Wei Wuxian laughed. His mind reeling at the thought this could work. Not just work, but work well. “Though the title is a bit stodgy.”

“Are you?” Lan Wangji seemed to be holding his breath. 

“Agreeing?” Wei Wuxian laughed again. He really must be going insane. At the same time it was the perfect solution to all his problems. Granted if he was really going insane that could be subjective. “I think I am.” 

“Do you need time to put your affairs in order?” 

“Not much to put in order?” Wei Wuxian replied. “I mean I live in a tent.” 

“If you wish, you can come home with me. We can discuss the ceremony.” 

“About that,” Wei Wuxian exhaled. “My heat starts tonight. Well, it almost started a few minutes ago.” He heard an audible sharp intake of breath from Lan Wangji. 

“Then we do not have much time,” Lan Wangji reached for his phone. "We'll do this tonight." 

"Tonight," Wei Wuxian breathed. Funny how less than twenty four hours ago, he was cursing the very alpha in front of him. He'd vented to Suibian about how the man should take responsibility for ruining Wei Wuxian's tent. 

He supposed now he was. 

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian felt like he’d been caught up in a whirlwind. The moment Lan Wangji’s white town car pulled up to the Lan Estate, a small army of servants had set upon them. Wei Wuxian found himself scrubbed clean, though they were careful not to mess with his suppressant talismans, and outfitted in what he assumed must have been ceremonial white robes. It seemed a little ominous to wear mourning colors, but they had him moving so quickly he didn’t have a chance to comment on it. 

It all came to an end as he was shown to a courtyard, finding Lan Wangji standing in identical robes to his. 

“Before we proceed, I must have you swear an oath not to reveal what I am about to show you.” 

“Of course,” Wei Wuxian nodded. His eyebrow arched as Lan Wangji pulled out a talisman and a pin. “A blood oath, really?”
“It’s tradition.” Lan Wangji offered. Wei Wuxian chuckled as he took the pin, pricking his finger and smearing his blood across the talisman slip. It flashed as it did, sealing his oath. “Follow me,” Lan Wangji nodded as he tucked the blood oath into his robes. 

While Wei Wuxian expected Lan Wangji to lead him into the older part of the Lan Estate, he was surprised as they went into the back woods behind it. The old fashioned cloth shoes they’d given Wei Wuxian weren’t ideal for traversing the forest, and they weren’t following a set trail. Lan Wangji seemed to know the way, not hesitating even once during the hike. 

It ended at a rough exposure of rock from the hills. Lan Wangji made a gesture, and Wei Wuxian watched as part of the rock seemed to shift, like an optical illusion and reveal an opening. Lan Wangji extended a hand to Wei Wuxian. 

“The first bit will be dark.” 

“No palm lights?” Wei Wuxian questioned as he took Lan Wangji’s hand. 

“It’s a deterrent against unauthorized visitors. Once you are bound to it, the darkness no longer affects you.” 

“Has the array ever been modified?” Wei Wuxian couldn’t contain his curiosity as they stepped into the darkness. “Perhaps the need for Yin and Yang energy could be removed, or made less of a feature.” 

“It’s one of the reasons the Barrier is so strong,” Lan Wangji replied. The dark of the space made it impossible to see any physical reactions to the question. Though, it wasn’t like Lan Wangji had much to offer on that front. “Minor adjustments have been made to the boundaries it extends to over the years.” 

“But otherwise the array’s been untouched?” 

“Mn.” 

“Incredible,” Wei Wuxian breathed. “It’s got to be one of the oldest arrays on record, not to mention still in use. Can you imagine what it could tell us about how our array forms have evolved?” 

“You have been sworn to secrecy,” Lan Wangji reminded. 

“So I’m not allowed to study it?” Wei Wuxian questioned. “I mean, it’s not like I’m gonna start selling knock off versions. But looking at an older array could give me incredible insights into developing new ones. We have a common format now, but who knows what we used to use? It cou-” 

Wei Wuxian nearly stopped dead in his tracks as the darkness gave way, almost in an instant. Lit by a blue glow was a naturally formed cavern. A pool was at its center, surrounded by sparkling white stalactites and stalagmites. From the moment they stepped into the blue light, Wei Wuxian could see their breath. Wei Wuxian’s brow only furrowed as he couldn’t see any sign of an array. 

“Where is it?” Wei Wuxian questioned as Lan Wangji let them into the cavern. His eyes roved over the walls, finding nothing. 

“There,” Lan Wangji brought them to the water’s edge, pointing down into the water of the pool. 

Its surface was as still as glass, only disturbed momentarily from a slow drip from a stalactite over head. Through it, Wei Wuxian could see an array inscribed at the bottom of the pool. 

“Fascinating,” Wei Wuxian breathed. “They must have put it under the water to protect it. I mean look at the rest of the cave, anything on the walls would be marred by calcium by now. Though being underwater brings its own problems. They might be trying to also fuel-” Wei Wuxian broke off as the water rippled. He looked over, his eyes widening as he saw a Lan Wangji stepping into the water. 

Naked. 

“Uh, Lan Wangji?” 

“Lan Zhan,” Lan Wangji offered as his gaze met Wei Wuxian’s. 

“What are you doing?” 

“You may leave your robe on if you wish, but we won’t be able to dry them until we’re out of the cavern.”

“We have to get in the water?” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji nodded. After a moment’s silence, he continued. “We need to be at the center of the array for the binding to be the most effective.” 

“And naked?” 

“It makes the process easier.” 

Wei Wuxian squirmed under Lan Wangji’s gaze. He’d never heard of any arrays where the casters were better off naked. At the same time, he hadn’t ever seen an array like this. Maybe it was some ancient secret. It didn’t make it any easier to strip with Lan Wangji watching the way he was. 

“Uh, can you like,” Wei Wuxian made a turning motion with his finger. His face flushed hot as Lan Wangji had the audacity to raise an eyebrow at him. He supposed he’d see it eventually, the water was clear as glass. Wei Wuxian quickly shrugged off his robe and slid into the water. “Fuck!” He shivered as it chilled him to the bone. “Could have given me a warning.” 

“It’s warmer over here.” 

“Let me guess, cause it’s the center of the array.” Wei Wuxian muttered as he rubbed his arms and made his way over. A quick look down confirmed his suspicion, his own dick bobbing in the water clear as day. 

And something more akin to a monster was bobbing between Lan Wangji’s legs.

“So what do we have to do?” Wei Wuxian turned his attention to the array, and tried not to think of what was bobbing in the water next to him. “Woah!” He protested as an arm pulled him closer to Lan Wangji. His hands slapped against the man’s chest in an attempt to keep some distance. 

“We bond.” 

“Yeah, I was just asking how we bind to the array. There’s got to be some trick right?” 

“Wei Wuxian.” 

“Wei Ying,” Wei Wuxian interjected, seemed fair if he was calling him Lan Zhan now. 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji seemed to soften. “We bind to it while bonding.” 

“I don’t,” Wei Wuxian broke off as a hand slid down to his ass. 

And didn’t stop.

“Lan Zhan hold on a minute, you don’t mean-” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji hummed, his eyes dropping to Wei Wuxian’s lips. 

“But thats-” Wei Wuxian broke off in a squeak as a finger pressed into him. It was almost an instinct to shove and flee. He barely made it a few steps before a heavy warmth was pressed against his back. 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji murmured in his ear. “Is this your first?” 

“I-Of course not-It’s jus-” Wei Wuxian broke off in a whimper as Lan Wangji’s lips pressed against the nape of his neck. The soft smell of sandalwood surrounding them. It brought the heat that had been held at bay by the talismans roaring to the front. His body sagging back against the reassuring warmth behind him. His legs widened for the hand trying to slip between them. 

“Would you prefer if I remove your talismans first?” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“I-” Wei Wuxian gasped as a finger pressed into him. His hand went flying, latching onto Lan Wangji’s shoulder as his whole body clenched. 

“Relax,” Lan Wangji’s breath practically burned against Wei Wuxian’s skin. Wei Wuxian was distantly aware of him moving them, no doubt recentering them in the center of the array. 

“This doesn’t make any sense,” Wei Wuxian tried to buy himself some time. “What about mated pairs who already bonded, how do they bind to the array?” 

“They just skip the marks,” Lan Wangji hummed. 

“And just have sex in the water?” Wei Wuxian scrambled. “Is it sanitary? How often is this water switched out? It-” He broke off with a moan as Lan Wangji pumped his finger for the first time. “Fuck your fingers are big.” 

“Do you want me to take the talisman off?” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“No,” Wei Wuxian swallowed. “I want to remember my first time.” He mumbled more to himself than to Lan Wangji. “Whoa!” He exclaimed as he was suddenly spun. Any further exclamations were cut off by Lan Wangji’s lips, and after a moment of tension Wei Wuxian let himself sink into it. 

“Ah!” Wei Wuxian gasped as a second finger pressed into him. His whole body clenched down, a heat roaring in his veins. It was a miracle the talismans were still holding on. Even with them he could feel the white hot need for something more. 

“Relax,” Lan Wangji murmured, his lips traveling along Wei Wuxian’s jaw. His free hand guided one of Wei Wuxian’s legs to latch around his hip, pulling their bodies flush. 

“You try relaxing with two fingers in you,” Wei Wuxian shot back, his arms latching around Lan Wangji’s shoulders as he tried to breathe. The worst was the feeling of Lan Wangji’s dick bobbing between his legs, yet not doing what Wei Wuxian’s body was screaming for. “Can’t you just slam it in and be done with it?” 

“I did not think that would be very enjoyable for you.” Lan Wangji murmured against the crook of Wei Wuxian’s neck. 

“Yeah well,” Wei Wuxain felt his face flush. “Not like we really had a chance to discuss anything.” He shifted, trying to position himself better. A low whimper escaped him as it caused his cock to drag where it was trapped between their torsos. He hid his face in Lan Wangji’s neck, wondering if it was the embarrassment or heat that was making him flush brighter than a firework. “Just put it in.” 

“Fuck,” Lan Wangji groaned, his fingers withdrawing. Wei Wuxian barely had time to mourn their loss, as-

Wei Wuxian’s scream echoed through the cavern. His whole body throbbing as it tried to accommodate Lan Wangji. His nails dug into Lan Wangji’s back. His scream faded, replaced with the sound of his ragged breathing. 

It was perfect. The stretch, the burn. Wei Wuxian couldn’t get such a perfect effect with his toys if he tried. And he’d tried. 

“I told you,” Lan Wangji grunted, his hands gripping Wei Wuxian’s hips as he tried to pull out. 

“Don’t you fucking dare,” Wei Wuxian wrapped his other leg around. A grunt pulled from Lan Wangji as he forced him back in. 

“You’re in pain-” 

“And it’s fucking perfect,” Wei Wuxian moaned as Lan Wangji’s dick settled back in. “But I need a few moments to adjust.” 

“Is there anything I can do?” Lan Wangji seemed to fidget almost, shifting the two of them in the water. 

“Um,” Wei Wuxian was truly at a loss. He wasn’t used to that, his mind quiet. If he had something to focus on besides the burn it might help. Yet there was only one thing that came to mind. “Maybe if you kissed me?” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji hummed, his head shifting. Wei Wuxian closed his eyes as he withdrew from hiding in Lan Wangji’s neck. 

Wei Wuxian liked kissing, he decided. It was easy to get lost in the glide of his lips against Lan Wangji’s. That was before Lan Wangji’s tongue pressed into his mouth, robbing him of all thoughts as it began to fuck in and out. 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji groaned as he broke their kiss. “Your hips.” 

“Hm?” It took Wei Wuxian a moment to drift back, and another one to realize he’d been rolling his hips. 

“Do not tease,” Lan Wangji’s hands tightened on Wei Wuxian’s hips to make them go still. 

“Maybe someone should take the hint,” Wei Wuxian shot back. He let out a low moan as Lan Wangji’s hands tightened to an almost painful level on his hips. 

“Mark your words.” Lan Wangji hissed. 

Wei Wuxian didn’t know what he should have expected. Spending his heats alone, he’d had plenty of time to imagine what being fucked would be like. He dreamed of it hot and hard, but he’d long lowered his real life expectations. 

To think the straight laced goody two shoes Lan Wangji would not meet them, but surpass them in a way Wei Wuxian couldn’t imagine. 

“Fuck, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian moaned. His hands laced through Lan Wangji’s hair as he pulled him away from where he was mauling his neck, before diving in for a kiss. 

Only for a hand to tear into his own hair, jerking his head to the side. Wei Wuxian cried out as teeth sunk into his neck, his whole body igniting as it convulsed and came. His whole body shook as Lan Wangji guided his head to his own neck, all while he continued to pound into Wei Wuxian. It was all instinct as his teeth sunk into Lan Wangji’s neck, his brain still floating from the high of his orgasm. 

He heard Lan Wangji’s grunt, his speed faltering for a moment. 

This is it, Wei Wuxian’s whole body buzzed. His first true knot. It was almost enough to come again. 

“Yes, come on-” Wei Wuxian panted as he released Lan Wangji’s neck. His own hips rocking in an attempt to aid. And just as he felt it, the bulging knot bumped against him. “Just a bit-” 

Wei Wuxian let out a cry as he was suddenly empty. He could feel Lan Wangji’s orgasm rip through his body, the man’s muscles tightening and a low grunt tearing from his chest. But instead of the warmth, the stretch of the knot Wei Wuxian craved, nothing came. 

Instead he looked over his shoulder, seeing the water cloudy with the release that should have been inside of him. It was nearly enough to make Wei Wuxian cry. Especially as Lan Wangji began to lower him back to his feet. 

“Is something wrong?” Wei Wuxian tried to hide his disappointment. How could something so perfect end so horribly? He could feel his heat screaming at him, pushing him to cling tighter to Lan Wangji. 

“No, look,” Lan Wangji nodded. Wei Wuxian glanced at the water, his eyes widening as he saw the cloudy water now glowing. 

The water began to swirl around them. Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened as it began to lift. He gasped as he saw it start to lift out Lan Wangji’s hair, off their bodies. It all started to swirl together, glowing as it returned to the stalactites above. 

“We had to infuse our energies into the water,” Lan Wangji explained once the last drop of water had returned to the cavern ceiling. “It’ll begin to fall again in a few days, refilling the pool until we recharge it.” 

“Fascinating,” Wei Wuxian shivered, the lack of water around them reminding him how cold it was in the room. He pushed further into Lan Wangji’s space, his nose nuzzling against his neck. “I’m going to have so many questions later, but for now can we?” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji hummed. He began to move away, earning a protesting noise from Wei Wuxian. “Would you prefer to stay here?” 

“I suppose you're right,” Wei Wuxian shivered from the cold. He was grateful as Lan Wangji handed him his robe. He shrugged it on, only for his eyes to widen as he realized Lan Wangji was already heading for the exit. He threw one last glance at the glowing array before hurrying after him. “Wait up!” 

Wei Wuxian hurried after Lan Wangji, his eyes widening as he realized the staircase was now brightly lit. He studied the walls, wondering what caused it. Was it part of the array? It would make sense since it disappeared after binding to it, but at the same time it didn’t feel quite right. 

“Is something wrong?” Lan Wangji questioned. 

“I was just wondering about the lights in the hallway,” Wei Wuxian gestured. “Is it part of the main array, seems like a nuisance to tie it in though. Oh! Maybe it’s part of that blood oath you had me sign!” 

“I meant my arm,” Lan Wangji replied. 

“Your-” Wei Wuxian looked down, his eyes widening as he realized his own were currently latched around it. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize,” He quickly let go. He let out a nervous laugh as he reached up to rub his neck. “I don’t know why I did that.” 

Except as he saw a piece of his suppressant flaking off, he realized exactly why he did it. His hand went to his neck, his fingers finding a crescent shaped mark straight through the center of his suppressant talisman. He felt a panic raise in his chest. He had to get to his nest, he needed to hide before anyone could find him. 

“Wei Ying?” Lan Wangji jarred him from his spiral. “Are you okay?” 

Wei Wuxian blinked at Lan Wangji, the smell of sandalwood drifting through his senses. Alpha , his mind so helpfully provided. His alpha , it provided next. Wei Wuxian blinked. His alpha . The realization was like a lightning bolt. All the heats he’d panicked over, the fear an alpha would find him and take him. All of that was gone. He had a mate who could take care of him during his heat. A real physical person, one with a body heat and a scent.

“I’m good,” Wei Wuxian let out a disbelieving laugh. He’d never said that before in pre-heat or a heat before. 

He smiled up at Lan Wangji, letting himself really take him in for the first time. The sandalwood smell was somehow cozy instead of feeling like a shrine. He was a touch taller than Wei Wuxian, but height had never really mattered to him. His shoulders were broader too now that Wei Wuxian looked, and he recalled the muscles his fingers had dug into. And Lan Wangji’s face? Wei Wuxian could go on about it for days. To think they were going to, that they already had. 

Well, almost had? Wei Wuxian wondered if it counted since he pulled out.  

“Here,” Lan Wangji broke through Wei Wuxian’s debate, gesturing to a door. 

“Oh, great!” Wei  Wuxian stepped forward, opening the door. Only to let out a low whistle. It had to be one of the biggest rooms he’d ever seen, and he’d grown up hanging out with rich kids. It was the kind you’d see in movies, with an area for the bed, hanging out around a TV and a desk. From the number of doors leading off of it, there was more to be discovered. 

“I had your things brought in,” Lan Wangji nodded to where Wei Wuxian’s qiankun pouch rested on a side table. 

“Great,” Wei Wuxian breathed, the sight of it easing some of his nerves. His nest would be in there, not that he’d need it now he had Lan Wangji. “Well-” 

“I’ll leave you to get settled.” Lan Wangji nodded. 

“Eh?” Wei Wuxian blinked. 

“It’s been a very eventful day for you,” Lan Wangji repeated himself. “There’s much to be done now the barrier is back up. I’m sure you’d like to settle in in peace.” 

“Right,” Wei Wuxian swallowed drily. 

“If there is anything you need, don’t be afraid to call a maid.” Lan Wangji nodded. 

“Of course,” Wei Wuxian nodded. “A maid.” 

Lan Wangji seemed to hesitate a moment, before awkwardly giving Wei Wuxian a tilt of his head. Wei Wuxian knew he shut the door normally, but it still felt like it was slammed. He wrapped his arms around his waist as he glanced around the room. The large open space that seemed appealing before now made his skin crawl. It smelled so, so foreign and sterile. A few testing sniffs turning into panicked breathing.  He had to slow his breathing. He had to stop the panic.

“Nest, I need a nest.” Wei Wuxian muttered as he beelined for his qiankun pouch. His eyes roved over the room. It was too big, too odorless. “The closet has to be smaller.” He muttered as he clutched his pouch to the chest and headed for the door. 

Only for the closet to be as big as his old room. Wei Wuxian stared at the built-in shelves and cabinets, wondering who could even fill all this space. He abandoned it, heading for the other door. Maybe the shower? 

“What the fuck,” He breathed as he looked at the shower. It was like a whole mountain coming out of the wall, the shower head barely visible as if it was some mountain stream to rain down on you. Three people could have laid down across the floor of the shower, which was made out of pebbles instead of normal tile. Not to mention there was no door or curtain, the shower just hidden in its own little alcove with an archway. 

And the tub was under its own spotlight, just out in the open. Did they expect him to put on a show?

“Fucking rich people,” Wei Wuxian abandoned the bathroom. He opened the last door, only to slam it shut at the sight of another massive room on the other side. He beelined back to the closet, scanning for a cabinet big enough. Thankfully there was. 

Wei Wuxian crawled into it, a moment of relief settling over him as the door creaked shut and the world dimmed. Then the smell of the cedar wood it was made over filled his lungs, and his traitorous mind wished it was sandalwood. It sent him reaching for his pouch, he quickly dug out his nesting materials, shoving them into the space around him. 

Only for the sound of the nylon of his sleeping bag to set him on edge. He threw it out the cabinet door, yanking out more of his clothing to fill the space. At least the robe they’d given him was soft and breathable, which was good because he couldn’t handle being naked right now. 

Just as he finally managed to settle, he heard it. The creak of the door, footsteps. The little bit of peace Wei Wuxian had found was shattered. His heartbeat jumped into his throat, bringing nausea with it. He scrambled for his bag, hoisting Suibian out of it and clinging to it like a lifeline. 

But even that didn’t help. 

“About time-shit, what the fuck A-Xian?” Suibain’s head slammed against the top of the cabinet, the rest of their limbs tangling with Wei Wuxian’s own for a moment before they went incorporeal. 

“Suibian, go see who’s out there.” Wei Wuxian pleaded. 

“A-Xian what’s going on?” 

“Just go check!” Wei Wuxian snapped. 

Suibian let out a low sigh, phasing through the cabinet door. Wei Wuxian gripped Suibian tighter, his eyes squeezing shut as he tried to fight the overwhelming panic. 

“Just a maid,” Suibian’s voice made Wei Wuxian jump as their head popped through the door. “Looking for you.” 

“Why?” Wei Wuxian demanded. 

“I don’t know, probably to ask if you want your duvet turned down or mints.” Suibian huffed. “A-Xian you don’t look so good.” Their brow furrowed. 

“It’s just,” Wei Wuxian tried to get out through the throbbing heartbeat in his throat. “Too much.” 

“Where is Lan Wangji?” Suibian questioned his hands becoming corporeal as they pressed against Wei Wuxian’s forehead. 

“Had things to do,” Wei Wuxian muttered, curling tighter around the sword. 

“He bit you and just left you like this?!” Suibian’s fingers traced over the mark on his neck. Wei Wuxian wasn’t sure why, but it made him whimper. 

“I mean, I was upright when he left.” Wei Wuxian murmured. His head tilted pressing into Suibian’s fingers, but they could only stay corporeal for so long when Wei Wuxian was in heat. He let out a whimper as the weight of their hand vanished. 

“A-Xian this isn’t good,” Suibian murmured. “You’re burning up! I’ve never seen your heats like this.” 

“I’ll get through it,” Wei Wuxian groaned. His hips rutted against where he had Suibian between his legs. 

“Okay, first off, ew,” Suibian shuddered. “But seeing your holding on to me like a lifeline I’ll forgive it. But you’ve never rutted in your heats before! You just curl up and cry!” 

“Well, we had to bond.” Wei Wuxian muttered. He’d always been too nervous to do anything in the woods or the Jiangs, instead just choosing to suffer through it. Even masterbating grew rare after he presented, too worried someone would discover him. “And all that stuff.” 

“All that-” Suibian trailed off. Wei Wuxian let out another groan as he rocked his hips again. His eyes fell shut. “A-Xian, I’m going to go get you help.” 

“What?” Wei Wuxian’s eyes flew open. 

“You need help.” 

“No I don’t,” Wei Wuxian’s panicked breathing filled the cabinet. “We can get through it the same way we always do. Just come tie me up.” 

“I don’t think that’s an option any more,” Suibian shot back. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.” 

“No, you can’t!” Wei Wuxian jerked, only to slam into the cabinet door. He saw stars, his world spinning as he slid against it. He buried his face into the familiar scented clothing, wondering when they got so wet.

It was the last thing he remembered before slipping unconscious. 

ΑΩΑΩΑΩΑΩ

“I can’t believe! Of all the reckless things to do! You can’t just bond with someone on a whim, Wangji!”

“It wasn’t a whim. The barrier was weakening, we needed-” 

“They’re a living breathing person Wangji! They almost died because you just abandoned them.” 

“He seemed fine. I thought it would be better to start on the work.” 

“Fine?! Wangji, you bonded with him! Omegas are extremely fragile after that, not to mention he’s in heat!” 

“I didn’t realize-” 

“That when you forge a bond that makes someone incredibly reliant on you?” 

“He seemed normal, a little clingy but-” 

“It’s because he needed you, he needed your scent! Did you even scent him? Or did you just bite him and walk away?” 

“He’s been through heats on his own, I assumed he had it handled.” 

“Assumed? Wangji, I know we taught you better than this.” 

“We copulated when we bond to the barrier, it should have been enough.” 

“Wangji, the barrier requires you both to come in the water.” 

“We did!” 

“Once an omega orgasms during a heat, they have to be knotted. He got through his previous heats probably because he never initiated that, only for you to blunder along and do it for him. Even if they don’t orgasam, omegas are extremely weak during their heats. They can hardly do anything for themselves.” 

“He’s a powerful cultivator, his sword spirit-” 

“Is probably the reason he’s survived so long like this! Omegas need someone they trust during their heat to care for them. You became that when you bonded with him, only to leave him in an unfamiliar place without even a scrap of your scent!” 

“My scent?” 

“Do you think he was curled up in his own clothes for fun? He was trying to calm himself down, give himself a safe space. If you had just given him a sweater, or a blanket from your room it might have kept him from hurting himself.” 

“I didn’t know.” 

“No, you didn’t! This is why we don’t bond people on a whim! If you talked to me about this, it wouldn’t have happened.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t apologize to me, apologize to your mate! He’s the one you hurt. You're lucky your bond didn’t break!”

Wei Wuxian stirred at the sound of an argument. His whole head throbbed, and the yelling wasn’t helping it. His whole body was sticky with sweat. His mouth felt like cotton. Where was Suibian? They could give him water, or a cool cloth. 

“Suibian?” He croaked, his eyes trying to flutter open. Only to slam shut at the brightness of the room. 

“Wei Ying,” A low voice spoke. It sent Wei Wuxian skittering back. His hands came up to try to block the light as he tried to open his eyes. 

“You're not Suibian, where are they?” He tried to demand, but his voice was wavering too much to be threatening. 

“They used up too much energy, so they are resting.” 

“Resting?” Wei Wuxian paled. “No, that’s not right. I need them. Where are they? Bring them to me.” 

“Wei Ying, your in heat-” 

“I know!” Wei Wuxian snapped. “Which is why I need Suibian,” He croaked. “They need to bring me water.” 

“I have water.” Wei Wuxian squinted against the light, able to make out a glass. “Drink.” 

“No,” Wei Wuxian shied away. “Not safe.” 

“It’s regular water.” 

“You could have poisoned it, or drugged it,” Wei Wuxian shrunk in on himself. “I need Suibian, they know what water bottles are safe.” He pawed around, his heart beat thundering in his veins as he found nothing but an empty bed around him. “Where’s my nest? Where’s Suibian?” He panicked. “I need them.” 

“Wangji-” A strange voice sounded. Wei Wuxian flinched back, his nostrils flaring as he sucked in a breath. 

“Who are you? Where’s Suibian?!” 

“Wei Ying, it’s okay.” A hand wrapped around Wei Wuxian’s wrist.

“No it’s not!” Wei Wuxian shrieked as he tried to throw the grip off. “I need Suibian, I need you to leave! Go away!” 

“Wei Ying,” The hand on his wrist tightened. Wei Wuxian hissed as he lashed out, using his seated position on his bed to kick out a foot. He heard a grunt as the hand finally released, a loud clattering that hurt his ears following. 

“Go away!” Wei Wuxian curled in on himself, his hands wrapping over his head. “I need Suibian.” He began to sob, unable to stop himself. “They wouldn’t leave me.” 

“I don’t,” A voice faltered.

“Are you ready to listen to me now?” Another huffed, pushing Wei Wuxian to curl in tighter on himself, a hand temporarily abandoning his head to yank a sheet over him. The sterile scent of detergent blocking out the medical stench of the rest of the room. “Reach out with your scent, he should recognize that.” 

“Should?” 

“I’m a beta, I don’t actually have practice.” 

“Then why shou-” 

“Because clearly I paid more attention in my classes than you, now reach out with your scent.” 

Wei Wuxian curled up tighter as he heard a huff. His nose buried into the crook of his arm. He jumped out of his skin as he felt a dip in the bed. His eyes squinted as he glared out from under his sheet. 

“Go away.” 

“Wei Ying,” A voice murmured. “Let me help.” 

“I don’t need your help, I need-” Wei Wuxian trailed off mid-sentence, unable to keep his nose from sniffing at the warm smell of sandalwood. He sniffed again, his nerves easing. 

“See I told you-” 

Wei Wuxian all but hissed as he darted. He latched around the warm sandalwood scent as if he could hide in it, burying his face in where it smelled the strongest. Just like that his muscles loosened, his heart dropping back down into his chest. 

“Go away,” He hissed as he clung to his safety line. 

“See I told you.” 

“Go away!” Wei Wuxian repeated louder. He was distantly aware of something wrapping around him, like a blanket fresh out of the dryer. 

As he heard the footsteps retreat, followed by the slam of the door, his hackles finally settled. He buried his face deeper into the scent as he let out a low breath. He was so exhausted. Suibian would bring him water soon, he thought. For now he’d just rest. As he began to drift, he heard a low rumbling hum. The warmth of his blanket spread, covering every inch of his body. The last thing he thought before he slipped under was alpha .  

He woke in excruciating pain. It drowned out everything, leaving Wei Wuxian only to plead with the universe to make it stop.  

And then suddenly it did. For a moment, there was a voidless calm. Before Wei Wuxian could sink into it, he was taken away by a new wave. It felt like he was swimming against the tide, trying to plant on foot on the beach to get his bearings. Instead, each attempt made him slip further away. Until he was drowning, the only thing he could recognize was a warm scent of sandalwood.

Chapter Text

For a moment, Wei Wuxian thought he’d died. 

He couldn’t remember the last time his body felt so heavy. The only reason he knew he wasn’t dead was because of the aches. They were well past the pleasant ones from a good work out or a long night hunting. No, these aches were bone deep as if he’d expended so much energy his soul ached from in. As he fought to open his eyes, he considered letting the exhaustion win. 

But then they did open and all thoughts of sleep vacated his mind at the sight of snow white sheets. They were too fine for him to be in a hospital. His eyes shifted past the sheets, and the room beyond them confirmed it. It was far too decorated to be a hospital, maybe a hotel? Had someone found him in his tent and brought him here? 

Wei Wuxian’s body protested as he began to shift. He pushed the sheets off, only for his hand to collide with something much heavier than a sheet. And much warmer. Wei Wuxian felt like he was in slow motion as his head turned. His eyes falling to where his fingers had stopped, or more accurately been stopped. 

By a human arm. 

Wei Wuxian’s eyes followed the arm up, to where it connected to a human torso. It looked like it had been in a cage fight, with bruises, scratches and bite marks all over. Before he could focus on them too much, his attention was caught by a splay of inky black hair. His eyes followed it upwards, to the face that was covered by it. He reached out, pushing the locks out of the way. 

To reveal the face of Lan Wangji. 

Memories hit Wei Wuxian like a truck, but he pumped the brakes. They’d parted ways, hadn’t they? His eyes dropped back down to Lan Wangji’s torso, well his whole body really. Then they dropped to his own, finding it just as marked. Suddenly the aches of his body screamed at him in a new tone. 

He’d spent his heat with Lan Wangji. He put his head in his hands as he curled inwards. He’d spent his heat with Lan Wangji. An alpha he was now bound to. He took a deep breath holding it for a few pounding heart beats before letting it out. How did he even begin to digest this? He’d barely even begun to digest being bonded!

“Wei Ying? Why didn’t you wake me?” Lan Wangji’s voice was sleep soft. Wei Wuxian turned his head, only for his eyes to widen as his mouth was caught in a kiss. The spinning torrent of thoughts vanished as Lan Wangji’s tongue invaded his mouth. 

He was surprised to hear himself moan as they hit the bed. He wasn’t sure if it was because of kissing or the way Lan Wangji’s weight settled over him, pressing him down. The heat of Lan Wangji’s body was like a balm for Wei Wuxian’s aches. Combined with the heady sandalwood scent that was filling the room, Wei Wuxian was powerless to resist. HIs eyes fell closed as he wrapped his arms around Lan Wangji and pulled him closer. 

Only for them to go flying open as the feeling of fingers being pressed into him left him gasping. His fingernails dug into LAn Wangji’s shoulders as he squirmed, trying to adjust to the feeling. Only for a keening wail to be torn from him as Lan Wangji scissored them open. 

Three? Who started with three fingers! Wei Wuxian’s breaths came in short pants as he tried to find his words.

“I know, but you're still a little dry,” Lan Wangji crooned as he pressed kisses to Wei Wuxian’s skin, apparently taking Wei Wuxian’s gasping attempts to speak as something else. “I don’t want to hurt you again,” Lan Wangji’s kissed shifted down Wei Wuxian’s jaw, pausing at his ear. “So be a good boy and wait.” 

Good boy, Wei Wuxian’s whole body went fuzzy at the words. HIs mouth fell open as a whimper escaped him. 

“Good boy,” Lan Wangji murmured again as he shifted. Wei Wuxian tilted his head, expecting another kiss. 

Only for it to be a quick peck on the lips before Lan Wangji began to pull away. Wei Wuxian’s mind was too fuzzy to feel embarrassed by his demanding whining, or by how it was silenced by a chiding ‘be good’. Wei Wuxian could only watch with heavily lidded eyes as Lan Wangji pressed kisses to his chest, tying his hair up as he went. Praises murmured between the kisses, until his fingers pressed back into Wei Wuxian. 

But Wei Wuxian was completely unprepared for a tongue to be pressed in with them. His back arched, his fingers digging into the bedsheets as it curled and licked around the pistoning fingers. His core tightened, and a squelch filled the room. 

It was answered by a low groan, but not from Wei Wuxian. 

It was all the warning Wei Wuxian got before his legs were hoisted over Lan Wangji’s shoulders. The alpha dove in like a starved wild beast. Wei Wuxian’s whole body shook, his mind going dizzy with pleasure. 

When he came, Wei Wuxian wondered if he really had died. He had to admit, Lan Wangji was a strange choice if this was his afterlife but he was handsome. Wei Wuxian definitely couldn’t deny that as a pair of golden eyes looked back at him from between his legs. Or as their owner shifted, revealing a slick painted chin. 

Wei Wuxian’s body offered as much resistance as a ragdoll as Lan Wangji bent him in half to catch his lips in a wet kiss. It was tinged a salty sweet, strange but not unpleasant. It did little to distract from the much larger cock nudging Wei Wuxian’s entrance. 

He couldn’t hold back a whimper at the burn, his body shaking. But from pain or pleasure he wasn’t sure. Lan Wangji let out a croon in response. His kisses intensified with his sandalwood scent. 

“Fuck!” Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with a screeching swear as Lan Wangji suddenly pushed all the way in with a quick thrust. 

“How are you still so tight?” Lan Wangji grunted. His kisses were turning into sucking nips. “So perfect, like you were made for me.” His praises conflicted with the rough speed he was setting and the way his hands were manhandling Wei Wuxian’s body like a doll. Every bend and shift letting Lan Wangji drive that little bit deeper. 

Gods it was hot. 

The more praise Lan Wangji grunted, the closer Wei Wuxian tumbled to the edge. Before he could, Lan Wangji’s speed stuttered. He lurched forward, his teeth sinking into Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. The feeling of a flooding warmth, followed by a burning stretch sent Wei Wuxian tumbling over the edge. 

For a moment, only the sound of their heavy breathing filled the room. Except once Wei Wuxian came down, his head didn’t stop spinning. 

He just had sex with Lan Wangji. 

Not just sex, but mind blowing best of his life sex. Though, Wei Wuxian didn’t exactly have anything else to compare it to. Despite the evidence, he didn’t exactly remember his heat. He wondered if Lan Wangji had learned how to play him like a fiddle during it or if he was just that good. Regardless, one thought bubbled to the front. 

“Good thing we’re bonded,” Wei Wuxian lightly pat Lan Wangji’s back. The bulk of the alpha still rested on him, pinning him bent in half. “I think you just ruined me for anyone else.” 

With Lan Wangji settled over him, it was hard not to notice the way he stilled. Even if Wei Wuxian had somehow missed it, the reflexive tightening of Lan Wangji’s teeth in his shoulder was impossible to miss. 

“Aiyah!” Wei Wuxian whined. “What are you a dog?” He lightly slapped Lan Wangji. 

Lan Wangji’s teeth released his shoulder. His tongue went to lick over the red marks, only to stutter. Lan Wangji pulled away like he’d forgotten to turn off the stove, but instead forgot he was knotted in Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian let out a pained yelp.

“I-” Lan Wangji’s eyes widened in panic. “I’ll tend to the bites once my knot goes down.” His head ducked as he looked away, allowing Wei WUxian to see his bright red ears. It felt like a habit for Wei Wuxian to reach out and nip at them.  

Only for both of them to freeze.

“Ah, sorry,” Wei Wuxian nervously chuckled. “I don’t know why I did that.” 

“You don’t remember anything do you?” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“Um,” Wei Wuxian blinked as he tried his hardest to recall anything. “Not really? Did you get all your barrier stuff done? I hope you didn’t put it off to come help me out.” 

“I,” Lan Wangji shifted, forgetting his knot was still stuck again. Wei Wuxian couldn’t stop his yelp again. “I keep hurting you!” Lan Wangji seemed to swear. 

“Knotting is new for both of us, yeah?” Wei Wuxian gently guided Lan Wangji, making sure they shifted together into a more comfortable position.

“Wei Ying, I abandoned you.” 

“You had things to do,” Wei Wuxian protested. “Way more important things!” 

“Wei Ying, you almost died.” 

“What?” Wei Wuxian blinked. 

“You almost died because I left,” Lan Wangji pressed. 

“I didn’t peg you as having a flair for the dramatic.” Wei Wuxian laughed. Only for it to falter at the serious look on Lan Wangji’s face. 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji’s hand reached out, settling over the bonding mark on Wei Wuxian’s neck. “When an omega is bonded, they depend heavily on their mate. Not just their care but their scent, their knot. I left you with none of that.” 

“I mean, obviously I was fine until you came bac-” 

“Suibian pushed themselves to fading to get you help,” Lan Wangji interrupted. “I wouldn’t have even known if my brother hadn’t come and got me. When I saw you,” He broke off. “You couldn’t even recognize anyone. You just kept screaming for Suibian, tearing at yourself-” His eyes pressed closed. “I did that to you.” 

“But I’m okay now,” Wei Wuxian squirmed under the sincerity. “And you helped me through it so it’s all fine.” 

“It’s not!” Lan Wangji snapped, his eyes flashing. “I abandoned you, I hurt you and then-” He broke off, red flushing down his neck from his ears. “Let pleasure get the best of me.” 

“Get the best of you?” Wei Wuxian blinked. 

“I was told knotting you would balance your system, it only needed to happen once but you were pleading and,” He broke off. “I couldn’t hold back. I should have been more attentive to your other needs. I didn’t even realize your heat had ended, I just assumed.” 

“Hey, you seemed pretty sleepy.” Wei Wuxian tutted. “Cut yourself some slack, I must have been a slave driver if that was your go to. Not to mention the state of you.” 

“You are worse off,” Lan Wangji’s ears were practically on fire. “I was too focused on the sex, I neglected other aspects."

"Don't be so hard on yourself, weren't you set to start your rut too?" 

"My ruts have always been easy to handle," Lan Wangji replied. "And end after I knot something, so I have no excuses. I need to be better next time.” He paused. “But I understand if you wish your next heat to be non-sexual.” 

“Oh, well,” Wei Wuxian squirmed. “The bit I remember was nice. Did, uh, you enjoy it?” He didn’t have to wait for an answer, feeling Lan Wangji’s cock twitch inside him. His head ducked as his ears flushed bright red. “Who knew the Heir to the Barrier was a secret sex maniac.” He couldn’t resist teasing. 

“I can only offer my deepest apologies and will do whatever I can do mak-” Lan Wangji’s head snapped up as Wei Wuxian began to laugh. “Are you teasing me?” 

“Seeing how you just ‘pleasurably benefited’ from my heat, I’d say I have the right to tease.” Wei Wuxian shot back, a smile curling up his lips. 

“Why aren’t you upset?” Lan Wangji questioned. 

“I’m sure I will eventually.” 

“Eventually?” 

“My body is sore in ways I couldn’t even begin to imagine, I just woke up to find I’ve spent my heat with someone for the first time.” Wei Wuxian started. “That someone being a man I entered a contract bond with, for a myriad of reasons. My brain is being pulled in so many directions I don’t know where to start accepting any of it, let alone to feel upset because you enjoyed my heat sex. If anything I’m relieved I’m apparently good in bed.” 

“We are well matched in the bedroom,” Lan Wangji nodded.

“I would have pegged you for a vanilla man,” Wei Wuxian reached up to rub his face.

“I would be happy to explore that with you,” Lan Wangji murmured. Wei Wuxian cracked an eye open, his hand pausing in where it was rubbing. “Not until you're fully recovered, and only if you're amenable.” 

“If I’m amenable?” 

“You said you enjoyed it, and I did as well.” Lan Wangji replied. “We are bonded, it would be natural if we develop a physical relationship.” He barreled on. Wei Wuxian realized he was nervous! He could almost laugh. “Not to mention it will bring us more in sync, which is good for the barrier.” He shifted, his eyes widening. “It looks like my knot has gone down, I’ll get you some water and run you a bath.”   

Wei Wuxian could only watch the naked Heir to the Barrier scurry off. Except, Wei Wuxian realized, he wasn’t the heir anymore. He was the Barrier Master, and now Wei Wuxian was the Barrier Master’s Mate. He fell back into bed as trying to comprehend that fact felt like running face first into a brick wall. He tabled it with the rest of them. His thoughts instead turned to Suibian, a surge of panic making him shift to the edge of the bed. 

Only to stop at the sight of his sword across the room. It was set into a sword stand, right next to one of silver in a light blue sheath. Wei Wuxian exhaled, his panic ebbed but he still felt the need to call out. 

“Suibian?” 

“They’re resting,” Lan Wangji’s voice replied instead. Wei Wuxian’s head jerked to look at him, finding the heir emerging from a room with a glass of water and something draped over his arm. He’d also donned a pair of pajama pants, for which Wei Wuxian was grateful. “They had to push their limit to find someone, Bichen offered to lend them some power to recover faster.” 

“Bichen is your blade?” Wei Wuxian took the glass of water from Lan Wangji. He took a slip, only to realize how parched he was. He quickly tilted his head back, draining the water in one go. 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji nodded. “She’ll come out to introduce herself once Suibian is recovered.” He held his hand out for the glass. 

“I’ll look forward to it,” Wei Wuxian hummed, his eyes traveling back to the swords. 

“I brought you something to wear,” Lan Wangji offered a pajama set. There was also a damp washcloth. “Your personal belongings were quite in disarray so I hope something of mine is fine.” 

“Yeah,” Wei Wuxian nodded as he took them. He quickly shrugged on the top, surprised to find it fairly big on him. He glanced at Lan Wangji, finding he was a bit broader in the shoulders. 

“I’ll get you more water,” Lan Wangji shifted as Wei Wuxian moved to get out of bed to put the pants on. Wei Wuxian spied a pair of red ears as he disappeared back into the bathroom. Apparently Wei Wuxian wasn’t the only one that needed to adjust. 

Wei Wuxian quickly wiped himself down, before standing. Or, attempting to stand, a soft swear escaping him as his legs nearly gave out. He ended up propping himself up to put them on, circulating his energy as he took in the room.

It must be Lan Wangji’s from the way the soft smell of sandalwood permeated it. Even that was a guess, there wasn’t any evidence of a person living in the room. There was no clutter, no personal touches. It felt like a photographer was going to pop out at any moment and start demanding poses from Wei Wuxian. Maybe it was why Wei Wuxian was drawn to Suibian when he could finally stand, running his fingers down the scabbard in want of something familiar. 

“Hey A-Xian,” Suibian’s voice was raspy. Wei Wuxian turned, seeing his sword spirit leaning against the post of the bed. They looked like Wei Wuxian felt, their skin had gone sallow making the dark bags under their eyes look worse. Instead of the usual silvery shine to their hair, it was a limp matte black.  

“Suibian,” Wei Wuxian rushed over, only for his hands to go right through Suibian’s form. All he could do was rock back onto his heels and ignore the gnawing need for physical contact. “Lan Zhan told me you over taxed yourself to save me, thank you.” 

“Hey, we’re a packaged deal,” Suibian reached out, miming a fist bump against Wei Wuxian’s chest. The gesture helped settle Wei Wuxian a bit. 

“You should be resting,” Wei Wuxian pushed. 

“How could I when you were giving me those puppy dog eyes?” Suibian shot back. “Besides,” Their face flushed. “Bichen is going to get me back on my feet in no time. I’ve never met a sword spirit as strong as her.” 

“You’ve never met another sword spirit period.” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. 

“There are a few others at school,” Lan Wangji’s voice sounded as he emerged with another glass of water. “Bichen isn’t very fond of them though.” His head titled, his gaze shifting to his sword. “You can come out now.” His brow furrowed a moment later, a low exhale following. “Wei Ying, may I formally introduce you to Bichen.” 

Wei Wuxian arched an eyebrow before his attention was stolen by a snowflake. They were trailing off of Bichen’s sheath, swirling in front of it like a vortex. A white mary jane shoe formed, swirling up into a white tight clad leg. From there a large poof of a white skirt formed, ruffle after ruffle. The top of the pinafore formed next, followed by billowy white sleeves that led to white gloved hands. A round face formed, framed by white hime bangs. The long length of the hair was in pigtails, a white beret topping it all off. Eyes blinked open, revealing the same shade of blue as the sheath. Wei Wuxian watched the girl spin, showing off the long bunny ears attached to her beret. Other accessories had filled in now too, ribbons and dainty silver chains dripping off the girl. 

“Wow,” Wei Wuxian blinked at the lolita vision in front of him.

“Isn’t she great?” Suibian sighed. Wei Wuxian was surprised to look over and see a dreamy expression on Suibian’s face. He was even more surprised to see the girl skip over to Suibian, and glomp on to them. She barely came up to their shoulder. Her cheek nuzzled against Suibian’s chest in a move that seemed almost possessive to Wei Wuxian. 

“She’s,” Wei Wuxian’s gaze flickered to Lan Wangji. “Different than I expected.” 

“This is Bichen’s preferred form,” Lan Wangji’s head tilted. “She takes on a more serious one for formal functions.” 

“It’s ugly,” Bichen spoke out loud for the first time, her voice much lower than Wei Wuxian expected. It was followed by a sniff, as if offended by being even reminded the other form existed. 

“I doubt that,” Suibian was quick to offer. “I don’t think you're capable of ugly.”  Wei Wuxian could only watch Bichen snuggled closer to his sword's spirit, giving off the air of a pleased cat.

“Bichen is very committed to what she likes,” Lan Wangji offered. “And it seems Suibian falls onto that list.” 

“I guess that’s good.” Wei Wuxian eyed the pair. “I mean, they’re going to spend a lot of time together.” 

“Suibian should rest more,” Bichen spoke up. 

“I will,” Suibian’s hand reached up, tugging on one of the long tendrils of Bichen’s hair. “I just wanted to let A-Xian know I was okay, and tell A-Zhan about caring for him.” 

“I’m perfectly capable of caring for myself,” Wei Wuxian huffed. 

“So you were going to tell him you need a high level of physical contact after your heat?” Suibian fired back with an arched eyebrow. “Or that you need to eat a lot?” 

“I’ll order something to eat,” Lan Wangji murmured. “As for contact, what are you comfortable with?” 

“It’s,” Wei Wuxian felt his face flame red. “I don’t-” 

“I’d advise cuddling,” Suibian steamrolled over him. “If you aren’t ready for that yet, hand holding or something like hair braiding.” 

“Suibian!” Wei Wuxian hissed, feeling his face flush red. “I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself!” He turned to Lan Wangji. “You must still have plenty of work to do. I won’t keep you.” 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji murmured. “It’s my fault you couldn’t take care of yourself during your heat like normal. Let me help you recover.” 

“And I can rest easier knowing there’s someone looking out for you,” Suibian smiled, before Wei Wuxian could protest they were gone. 

“I’ll order some food,” Lan Wangji offered. “If you want to take a bath-” 

“I’m not some weak omega that needs to be taken care of.” Wei Wuxian snapped. He could feel anger prickling at the back of his throat, if Lan Wangji thought he could just walk over him-

“If you were, I never would have chosen you as my mate,” Lan Wangji replied. Wei Wuxian’s anger faltered. “Your state was because of my failings, not yours. Now would you like to take a bath?” 

“I,” Wei Wuxian shifted the last of his anger sputtering out. He felt his cheeks heat. “I would like one.” 

“I’ll be in with a new set of pajamas after I order food,” Lan Wangji nodded as he moved towards whatever he used to summon food on a whim. 

The bathroom was just as large as the bedroom, but Wei Wuxian ignored exploring it as he approached the tub. For the size of it it took a surprisingly short time to fill, though Wei Wuxian suspected it was due to the two taps. Still, he couldn’t complain as he sank into the hot water. 

“I have salts if you’d like them,” Lan Wangji’s voice broke through Wei Wuxian’s peace. He cracked open an eye, shifting his head to look at him as he entered. He placed another pair of pajamas and a towel on the bench by the tub. 

“The hot water is working wonders,” Wei Wuxian hummed. 

“I could wash your hair if you like,” Lan Wangji offered as he produced a basket of bottles from a cabinet. “Suibian mentioned braiding, this would be similar.” 

Wei Wuxian let out a low exhale. Suibian needed to recover, he needed to recover. Still, the idea of trusting himself to someone who was practically a stranger? Then again, Wei Wuxian supposed Lan Wangji had taken care of him through his heat. From the sounds of it, it truly had been a mistake to abandon him. It wasn’t like Wei Wuxian had known any better either. 

“Yeah,” Wei Wuxian nodded in allowance. His eyes fell shut the moment Lan Wangji’s hands started carding through his hair. His touch was a little clumsy, clearly unused to doing this for anyone else. “Do you need to bathe? I didn’t shower before I got in.” 

“I’ll shower once your hair is clean,” Lan Wangji replied with a hum. “Though after the last knot you seemed to settle, so I bathed you and showered myself. I should have realized it was the end of your heat.” 

“Ah, I wondered.” Wei Wuxian took a moment to reflect on how dry he’d been when he woke up. “My normal heats tend to get very sticky.” 

“You dealt with them yourself?” 

“Mn,” Wei Wuxian hummed. “No one else to trust.” 

“I thought you grew up with the Jiangs.” 

“I did,” Wei Wuxian sighed. “But it’s better for them for me not to be in the picture.” 

“I doubt that,” Lan Wangji hummed. “With your talents-” 

“My talents are the problem,” Wei Wuxian shot back. “I’ve never struggled with my cultivation, with learning, but my shijie and shidi?” He let out a low exhale. “Everytime I excelled it cast them in a shadow. So I learned to just stop excelling publicly.” 

“You must care for them a great deal.” 

“Yeah,” Wei Wuxian smiled. “But their lives are better now.” 

“At the detriment of your own,” Lan Wangji’s hands had grown soft, almost as if he was handling something precious. 

“It wasn’t so bad.” 

“You were living in a tent.” 

“Everyone seems so focused on that,” Wei Wuxian snorted. “It’s a nice tent!” 

“So your desire to remain anonymous is for the Jiang’s benefit, not your own.” Lan Wangji pressed on. 

“For my shidi and shijie’s benefit,” Wei Wuxian corrected. “It’s not like I planned to do it forever.” 

“Seems like you are.” 

“They’ll make names for themselves,” Wei Wuxian replied. “Once they have, I’d be able to make my own accomplishments. Not that I have to worry about that now.” 

“Oh?” 

“I’m to be your Lan Furen, right?” Wei Wuxian opened his eyes, tilting his head back to look at Lan Wangji. “I can make all the accomplishments I want now, just publish them under the title of Lan Furen.” He gave a contented hum as he closed his eyes again. “If anyone does discover it’s me, it'll be clear I got the opportunity because I'm Lan Furen. It removes my talent and the Jiangs from the equation completely. Great plan for only a few minutes, huh? Ouch!” Wei Wuxian hissed as Lan Wangji pulled on his hair. “What was that for?” 

“You’ll have enough people trying to discredit and belittle you,” Lan Wangji murmured. “You don’t need to help them.” 

“Discredit and belittle me?” Wei Wuxian repeated in disbelief. 

“Lan Furen is a position of power, people are always seeking ways to bring those in power down.” Lan Wangji replied. “I hoped keeping your identity a secret might protect you, not an excuse for your accomplishments.” 

“I can protect myself,” Wei Wuxian snorted. “What was it you said? That I matched your cultivation?” 

“Cultivation can not protect from rumors,” Lan Wangji replied. “Close your eyes as I rinse.” He instructed. 

“So let them think I’m useless,” Wei Wuxian shrugged. “Aiyah! What was that for!” He spat as he got water sprayed in his face. 

“You shouldn’t let your talents go to waste,” Lan Wangji huffed once he’d finished rinsing Wei Wuxian’s hair. It let Wei Wuxian shift in the tub, turning to face Lan Wangji directly. 

“I’m not saying I will,” Wei Wuxian shot back. “I don’t care what anyone thinks, I’ll know what I’ve accomplished, that's all that matters.” 

“Not just you,” Lan Wangji murmured. “I’ll know too.” 

Wei Wuxian was surprised to find himself speechless. A moment hung between the two of them, broken only by the sound of a door opening in the other room. 

“That should be the food,” Lan Wangji hummed. “Would you like to soak while I shower?” 

“Yeah,” Wei Wuxian nodded. 

“Then I’ll dry your hair once you're out.” He nodded as he stood. 

Wei Wuxian found he could only nod as he watched the man go. He slipped into an alcove, and Wei Wuxian could have thought him out of the room if it wasn’t for the soft sound of a shower running. I’ll know too. The words ran through Wei Wuxian’s head. His hand rose to his chest. What was this feeling? It wasn’t like his heart was racing, but there was a warmth in his chest. 

It took Wei Wuxian longer than he’d like to remember he was in a hot bath and that was probably what it was. He quickly pulled the plug, leaving the warm water and the feeling behind. Wei Wuxian wondered why Lan Wangji had three different sets of matching pajamas as he shrugged them on, toweling his hair off as he made his way back into the bedroom. The warm feeling left behind. 

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian stared at himself in the mirror for a moment. He was still wearing the same green robes of Class E. His hair was in the ponytail he always wore. He looked the same as he had when he’d left college last week.

Yet everything was different.

He wasn’t living in a tent but an estate. He had real suppressants now instead of talismans. He was mated, and not just mated but mated to the Barrier Master himself! He’d sat with Lan Qiren and Lan Wangji for hours discussing not just Wei Wuxian’s but also Lan Wangji’s new duties. Wei Wuxian had expected public appearances, but he hadn’t expected he’d be required to train with Lan Wangji. Apparently bonding was only the first step. To keep the barrier at its strongest they needed to be at their strongest. But it wasn’t just on a core level.

Wei Wuxian had wished it had just been on a core level. Instead a doctor had been shown in to discuss the importance of their physical, sexual and emotional balance. He laid out the number of times they should scent each other (three times a day unless they had sex the night before, then only once in the evening) and then of course how often they should have sex (at least once a week, but two to three times would be optimal until their scents started to blend). He’d outright banned Wei Wuxian from having his own room, and said they should be spending a minimum of 5 hours together a day for best results. 

It was clear Lan Wangji was just as surprised by the news. Wei Wuxian had hoped it would give him a chance to negotiate some wiggle room with him, but his hopes were quickly shot down when the doctor said it would keep Wei Wuxian’s next heat more balanced. Wei Wuxian would have to see, but he suspected Lan Wangji’s guilt would keep them adhered to the schedule.  

And just when Wei Wuxian thought he had a few moments to breathe, it was time to go back to college. So here he was dressed in the same clothes, looking the same except completely different. 

“Remember we need to leave early,” Lan Wangji appeared in the mirror behind him. Wei Wuxian’s eyes slid to the other man, roving over the pure white robes of the Elite Class. He’d clearly had them tailored, as no one looked that good in the school's standard uniform. 

“I remember, we have to go to that fancy tailor.” Wei Wuxian shot back, trying not to roll his eyes. “I don’t see why we can’t just order something online.” He muttered as he tugged at his jacket before turning away from the mirror. 

“How you style yourself as Lan Furen is important,” Lan Wangji regurgitated the words his Uncle had said during one of their many meetings. “Especially as we are hiding your identity.” 

“Just say it, you Lans are too snobby for off the rack.” Wei Wuxian shot back. 

“We appreciate artisans,” Lan Wangji replied without batting an eye. “We can buy some of your other essentials while we’re out.” He added. 

“What other essentials?" Wei Wuxian’s brow furrowed. “I have everything I need.” 

“Your shampoo is what the College stocks in their locker rooms,” Lan Wangji replied flatly. “Which you stole and put in your own container.” 

“Yeah, it works.” Wei Wuxian shrugged. “Why waste money?” 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji somehow managed to sigh exasperatingly, yet didn’t show it on his face. “We can’t have our Lan Furen smell of generic old spice.” 

“Fine, I’ll buy the name brand Old Spice.” Wei Wuxian shot back. 

“That would still be Old Spice,” Lan Wangji’s brow finally quirked, delighting Wei Wuxian. “Wei Ying, you can’t think Old Spice smells good.” 

“Bold words from a man who smells like one of the scents.”

“I do not have cypress in my scent,” Lan Wangji shot back. 

“You could,” Wei Wuxian reached out and tugged on Lan Wangji’s hair. “Anything is possible once our scents blend. Think of it, you and me smelling of Old Spice forever.“

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Lan Wangji snapped. “You smell like nuomici, how would we get cypress from that?” 

“You think I smell like nuomici?” Wei Wuxian tilted his head. 

“Is that not your scent?” Lan Wangji blinked. 

“I always thought it smelled like rice whine, but nuomici” Wei Wuxian hummed as he considered it. “Much more cozier than wine, and keeps us from smelling like a shine!” 

“As long as it isn’t Old Spice,” Lan Wangji sighed. “If you have no preferences, when we get your haircut I’ll have them pick the best product.” 

“I’m getting my hair cut?” Wei Wuxian questioned. 

“Your split ends are atrocious,” Lan Wangji replied simply. “At least you take care of your skin.” He turned as he moved to pick up his bag. 

“Nothing but water!” Wei Wuxian hummed. “Nice and easy.” He grinned as he heard another low sigh from Lan Wangji. 

“I’ll have them recommend a skin care routine as well.” 

“So many routines,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. “Remind me, how early am I supposed to be getting up to train with you?” He questioned as they headed for the door.

“Five AM.” 

“Yeah, not happening.” Wei Wuxian snorted. “Not unless it’s because I stayed up that late.” 

“It’s an optimal time to train.” Lan Wangji shot back. 

“No it isn’t,” Wei Wuxian shot back. “Why not after school, or during lunch?” 

“We only have an hour lunch,” Lan Wangji shot back. “My training regime is three hours.” 

“Three hours?” Wei Wuxian blinked. “New plan,” He pivoted. “We keep up our usual training routines, as they’re clearly working for us. We find a time that is not five AM for us to come up with a training routine for the two of us.” 

“I do think it is worth seeing the other’s training routine,” Lan Wangji said after a moment's thought. 

“Fine, I’ll get up at five AM one time!” Wei Wuxian huffed. “But that’s it.” 

“Are you sure you don’t want to drive with me?” Lan Wangji questioned as Wei Wuxian unseathed Suibian. 

“I’m supposed to pretend like nothing has changed, right?” Wei Wuxian stepped onto his blade. “I always fly to school.” 

“We could take you part of the way.” 

“Lan Zhan, I can handle a flight to school,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. “Besides, why risk someone seeing you let me off?” He added as he started to rise in the air. Wei Wuxian was uncertain if he heard Lan Wangji sigh or if it was just the wind from his ascent. 

Regardless, it was blown from Wei Wuxian’s mind as he rose to the proper flying altitude. He closed his eyes as he lazily began to drift along his path. There was nothing quite like flying. It was one of the few concessions Wei Wuxian had made in his act. Not many in Class E could manage it, those that could couldn’t be airborne for more than a few minutes. Thankfully, everyone assumed he flew in from the Jiang estate, which was a short five minute fight from the College. 

Wei Wuxian hopped off on the landing pad, calling Suibian back to his sheath. Contrary to popular belief, Wei Wuxian often arrived early. To avoid the barrier patrols, he’d have to get up and slip back in when they changed for the day patrol. After he’d slink into school and catch a few more hours of sleep before his classes. Sometimes he’d use the locker room showers, or see if he could bum food off of anyone in the cafeteria. Since he hadn’t had to duck guards, and he’d been showered and fed at the Lan Estate, Wei Wuxian found himself with unprecedented free time on campus. He contemplated hitting up the library when- 

“Wei-xiong!” Nie Huaisang’s voice called out.

Wei Wuxian turned, seeing the young man scurrying across the campus to him. Once again he was out of uniform, though it would be stranger for him to be in uniform at this point. Today was a green crop top and shorts, with a flowy duster over it. His flip flops slapped as Nie Huaisang hurried towards Wei Wuxian. 

“Flip flops, really?” Wei Wuxian arched his eyebrow. “It’s like you're begging to get written up.” He paused, peering at Nie Huaisang’s back. “You didn’t even bring your saber?” 

“Oh,” Nie Huaisang peered over his shoulder. “Yeah, the strap totally threw off my outfit. I’m sure my brother will have it delivered before the end of the day.” He produced a fan from his sleeve. “More importantly,” He pointed the fan at Wei Wuxian. “Where have you been?! I’ve been covering for you all week!” 

“My heat hit,” Wei Wuxian kept his voice low. He started leading the way to the class room, keeping an eye out for anyone that might over hear them. 

“And it lasted a whole week?” Nie Huaisang questioned. “Your heats are never that long.” 

“Well, I might have done something to fuck that up.” Wei Wuxian muttered. 

“Something or someone?” Nie Huaisang raised an eyebrow. 

‘I don’t know what you're talking about,” Wei Wuxain replied, trying to keep his voice even. 

“I mean the last time I saw you was with a certain alpha who seemed very focused on you,” Nie Huaisang waggled his eyebrow. 

“It’s not like that,” Wei Wuxian tried to lie, but he could feel his face flushing. 

“Uh huh,” Nie Huaisang hummed as they entered their classroom, which was thankfully empty for the moment. “So is the Heir to the Barrier any good in bed? I haven’t heard any rumors about him, which means he swears them to secrecy or you know.” He broke off, miming a flaccid dick. 

Wei Wuxian couldn’t resist snorting as he fell into his chair. He’d seen Lan Wangji’s morning wood more than once by now. Wei Wuxian might not wake up early, but he was a light sleeper. Wei Wuxian could blow Nie Huaisang’s mind by telling him Lan Wangji has a sex schedule prescribed by his doctor. It just reminded Wei Wuxian that he’s Lan Wangji’s prescribed sex partner, which shut down any temptation to spill that fact. He let out a sigh as he dropped his head to his desk. 

Only to be surprised at how easily his eyes slipped closed. He supposed the past few days had been pretty non-stop. He’d expected to be busy attending classes again, but how could he forget what his time at the College truly was? Prime nap time! 

“Wake me up if it’s something important,” Wei Wuxian hummed to Nie Huaisang.

“I think what we were discussing was very important,” Nie Huaisang huffed. “Don’t think I’m letting you weasel out of this talk.” 

“Hard to weasel out of what I don’t know anything about.” Wei Wuxian lied, snuggling deeper into his own arms. He let his eyes drift close. 

And they stayed closed until a bell sounded for the lunch break. Wei Wuxian rubbed his eyes as he raised his head, wondering if he should go eat or continue sleeping. He yawned as he stretched, a slight rumble in his stomach making the decision for him. 

“Are you coming to lunch?” Nie Huaisang asked. 

“Mm,” Wei Wuxian stood. He supposed he could do it a lot more often now with the Lans officially booting the bill. 

“Good, we have a lot to talk about.” Nie Huaisang hummed as he started leading the way. 

“I told you, I don’t know anything about the Heir to the Barrier or his sex life.” Wei Wuxian groaned. 

“I believe you know nothing about the Heir to the Barrier’s sex life,” Nie Huaisang’s eyes regarded Wei Wuxian for a moment. 

“Thank you!” Wei Wuxian threw his hands up. 

“No, I’m much more interested in the Barrier Master’s sex life,” Nie Huaisang barreled on, making Wei Wuxian’s stomach drop. 

“Why would I know anything about that?” Wei Wuxian nervously laughed. “We don’t even have a Barrier Master, remember? I thought history was supposed to be your best subject.” 

“Once the Heir to the Barrier takes a mate, he becomes the Barrier Master.” Nie Huaisang replied. 

“How am I supposed to know who his mate is?” 

“Wei-xiong,” Nie Huaisang’s face took on an unusually cold glare. “I saw the mating bite.” Wei Wuxian’s hand flew to clamp down on the back of his neck. “You really need to work on your acting skills,” Nie Huaisang broke out into a laugh. 

“How did you?”
“Come on Wei-xiong, it’s not that hard.” Nie Huaisang rolled his eyes. “While it’s certainly possible you were taken advantage of by a stranger, you’ve spent dozens of heats by yourself with no issue. While it is possible you slipped up, it seems far more likely that you were with Lan Wangji when it triggered and he offered to assist you. With that logic, it means he’s the one who marked you. Which I just confirmed.” 

“I forget how smart you actually are,” Wei Wuxian muttered. 

“Because I know how to act,” Nie Huaisang flipped his hair. “Now, give me all the details! Are you going to be announced as the new Lan Furen? When? Can I come and can I dress you up?” 

“It’s,” Wei Wuxian scratched his cheek. “More complicated than that. It’s supposed to be a secret.” 

“Well, everyone knows you can’t keep secrets from your best friend.” Nie Huaisang latched onto his arm. 

“Huaisang if you can figure it out-” 

“I only figured it out because I had all the information,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “Those who don’t know you will have a much harder time. Besides, now you have me helping you!” 

Wei Wuxian glanced at Nie Huaisang. To most people having Nie Huaisang on their side wouldn’t mean much. While he certainly wasn’t going to be saving anyone with his saber, even if he did remember to bring it, on a social level Nie Huaisang was like a nuclear cannon. Maybe this was a good thing, at least he would be someone who could help cover for him. 

“I guess I do,” Wei Wuxian smiled as he slung his arm around Nie Huaisang’s shoulder. “Come on, I’ll buy lunch.”

“You mean the Lans will by lunch,” Nie Huaisang giggled at his own joke. 

“Same thing,” Wei Wuxian scoffed. The two of them grabbed their meals, slipping off to find a quiet spot for Wei Wuxian to tell Nie Huaisang everything. 

“Wei-xiong, how did you not know that once you bond you need a knot during your heat?” Nie Huaisang was staring at Wei Wuxian like he was the dumbest in the class. 

“It never came up,” Wei Wuxian felt his face flush. “Besides, it’s not like Lan Zhan knew either.” 

“A miracle meeting of two idiots,” Nie Huaisang snorted, only to pause. “You did use protection, or at least a morning after pill?” 

“We aren’t idiots,” Wei Wuxian shot back, his face flushing. It had been the doctor who’d brought the pills, as well as his new suppressants. 

“Evidence would prove otherwise.” Nie Huaisang shot back. 

“Shut up,” Wei Wuxian snapped. “So are you going to help me slip out this afternoon or not?” 

“I mean I’d rather come with you,” Nie Huaisang huffed. “Who knows what travesty the Lans will put you in.”

“We’re meeting some custom tailor.” 

“Hold on, you're going to the Lans Custom Tailor?!” 

“Are they well known?” 

“I’ve only been trying to get an appointment since I was able to dress myself!” Nie Huaisang huffed. 

“Well, help me out and I’ll see what I can do.” Wei Wuxian shot back. 

“You’ll have my undying loyalty!” Nie Huaisang saluted. “And I suppose if the Tailor is in charge you won’t be put in anything too terrible. Still, you should really have me take a look over everything.” 

Wei Wuxian could only chuckle at Nie Huaisang’s antics as they slunk back to their classes. He didn’t expect Nie Huaisang to fake a pulled muscle to let the two of them slip out of their afternoon PE classes. The two of them left campus, with Wei Wuxian cleared to escort Nie Huaisang home. Of course what he really did was take Nie Huaisang to his family’s car, which pulled off in the direction of the mall (not the Nie Estate). Wei Wuxian merely rolled his eyes, hurrying off in the direction of his meet up with Lan Wangji. 

“Your,” Lan Wangji checked his watch. “On time.” 

“Don’t look so surprised,” Wei Wuxian snorted as he buckled his seat belt. “Though I had some help.” 

“Help?” Lan Wangji cocked an eyebrow. 

“My friend, Nie Huaisang, kind of saw your mating mark.” Wei Wuxian explained. 

“You showed it to him?” 

“No, I was taking a nap and my uniform must have slipped,” Wei Wuxian shook his head. He jumped as Lan Wangji’s fingers touched the back of his neck. 

“It is rather high,” Lan Wangji murmured. “I didn’t consider that.” 

“Mm,” Wei Wuxian nodded. 

“Would you be opposed to a collar?” 

“No one really knows I’m an omega,” Wei Wuxian pulled his jacket up higher. Lan Wangji withdrew his fingers as it hit them. “Maybe if it’s a subtle one?” 

“We can ask the tailor,” Lan Wangji nodded. “You need more clothes anyway, we could get some options with higher necks.” 

Wei Wuxian resisted the urge to make a face. The College uniforms had higher collars on their inner shirts, which was why it was the first piece he’d stopped wearing. Still he supposed it was what he needed to do to keep this secret. 

“Did the jury come to a conclusion on what style we’re looking for?” Wei Wuxian asked. The last time they’d discussed how to hide his identity with Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren, the response had been mixed. 

“We’ll pick what we like,” Lan Wangji let out a short huff of breath. Clearly both his family members were still lobbying for their own side. 

“Maybe I should have brought Nie Huaisang with me,” Wei Wuxian snorted. “He knows about all this fashion stuff.” 

“We will manage on our own,” Lan Wangji replied. “We’re here.” He nodded. Wei Wuxian looked out, seeing a surprisingly traditional house. He spied a high fence around it, glancing through the back window to see a gate they’d just driven through. 

“This is a tailor?” 

“Mm, he has a storefront but this is more private.” Lan Wangji explained. “Once your disguise is decided and ready, you may choose to make your future appointments at the storefront.” 

“Would I be able to make appointments for other people?” Wei Wuxian questioned. 

“Making appointments for me does not fall under your duties.” Lan Wangji hummed. 

“Not for you,” Wei Wuxian shot back. “My friend, apparently he’s wanted an appointment for a while. Since he’s helping out with all this, I thought it would be a nice thank you.” 

“Perhaps if he continues to prove useful,” Lan Wangji tilted his head as he opened the car door. 

Wei Wuxian followed him out, glancing around the peaceful garden that surrounded the house. He wasn’t allowed to linger long, as Lan Wangji called him to follow him into the house. Wei Wuxian hurried in, finding more of the immaculate traditional Chinese aesthetic.

“Young Master Lan, or should I say Barrier Master?” A voice called. Wei Wuxian’s head swiveled, ducking so he could get a better view of the figure coming down the stairs. “And Wei-Xiong!” 

“Huaisang?” Wei Wuxian gasped. “I just put you in a car!” 

“Yes, and thankfully my driver isn’t afraid to break the speed limit.” Nie Huaisang grinned. 

“Wei Ying?” Lan Wangji looked between the two of them. “Do you already know each other?” 

“This is who I was telling you about!” Wei Wuxian gaped. “My friend Nie Huaisang.” 

“This is Mo Xuanyu,” Lan Wangji replied. 

“Technically you're both right!” Nie Huaisang clapped his hands. “My legal name is Nie Huaisang, but Mo Xuanyu is the name I took when I apprenticed a tailor. Little did I know, he was the Lan Tailor. When I heard the Barrier Master’s wife had an appointment, I couldn’t resist asking to take it as my first official Lan project.” 

“So all that surprise earlier?” 

“Acting,” Nie Huaisang grinned as he jazz hands. “I’ve gotten quite good at it, I mean Da-ge doesn’t even know about this.” 

“What about all that talk about being certified to get your trust fund?” Wei Wuxian’s brain spun. 

“I mean, being the Lans tailor pays well but you can never have too much money in the realm of fashion.” Nie Huaisang hummed. “Besides, I think Da-ge will take this better after I graduate.”
“I can’t believe I didn’t know this,” Wei Wuxian breathed. 

“Well, you’ve had a lot on your plate while living in a tent.” Nie Huaisang shrugged. “Now, let's get down to business!” He clapped his hands. “Obscuring your identity while making you the fashion star of our Barrier.” 

“Obscuring his identity is the most important.” Lan Wangji noted. “I’m sure my family has sent their opinions on the direction we should take.”

“Oh, I glanced at them.” Nie Huaisang waved Lan Wangji off. “I think we need to start from scratch. Follow me to where the magic happens.” He waved them forward deeper into the house. 

“Am I to believe,” Lan Wangji kept his voice low. “That the apprentice I know as Mo Xuanyu is actually the worst ranked cultivator in our College?” 

“Apparently,” Wei Wuxian chuckled. 

“Should I be running background checks on everyone in Class E?” 

“Eh, there’s a reason I chose Nie Huaisang to be my friend.” Wei Wuxian reached up and clapped Lan Wangji on the shoulder. “He was the most interesting of the three in class E with brain activity.” 

“Aw, thanks Wei-xiong! You're the most interesting too!” 

“Background checks,” Wei Wuxian heard Lan Wangji mutter as Wei Wuxian followed after Nie Huaisang. 

“Now Master Lan,” Nie Huaisang started only for his face to screw up. “You're married to my best friend, can I just call you Lan-xiong or Wangji or something?” 

“If you wish.” Lan Wangji hummed. 

“Alright Lan-xiong, you’ve got a consistent image already built.” Nie Huaisang ran his fingers along a table top. Wei Wuxian watched it light up, and with a few taps Nie Huaisang had a dozen images of Lan Wangji on the table. “It’s not the most unique, seeing how you just alternate cultivator uniforms with old money style.”

Wei Wuxian watched Nie Huaisang tap a few more times, the images of Lan Wangji spiraling off into more images. One set of cultivators, the other of wealthy individuals. It fit what Wei Wuxian had seen of the man’s closet. In a blink, Nie Huaisang had the images shrunken down and set to the side. Visible, but no longer taking up the bulk of the table screen. 

“Now, Wei-xiong your well,” Nie Huaisang sighed as he pulled up a smattering of photos. It was largely of Wei Wuxian’s edited uniforms. “A victim of convenience since you entered college.” He shrunk down the uniforms. “And your time with the Jiangs,” He let out a longer sigh as he pulled up older photos of Wei Wuxian. “A victim of teenage angst.” 

“I try,” Wei Wuxian felt oddly guilty. 

“I know babe,” Nie Huaisang smiled at him. “While this does mean we can go in any direction, I’d rather you feel comfortable in what you're wearing. So, I whipped up a little style quiz for you.” He produced a tablet and handed it to Wei Wuxian. “Just pick the looks you like best. Now, Lan-xiong, if you also wanted to consider this as a chance to shift your own image, I'll have you take one as well.” Wei Wuxian was surprised to see Lan Wangji accept the second tablet. “Now while you two do that, I’ll draw up a list of the amount of pieces we’ll need to make.” 

“We’ll need items to conceal his bond mark for his daily life,” Lan Wangji informed. “Subtle collars, neck coverings or high collars.” 

“Noted,” Nie Huaisang hummed, his hand already scrawling away a list. “Now focus on your quizzes.” 

Wei Wuxian snorted, tapping away at his screen. He’d expected it to be one of those quick online quizzes, but instead he found himself diving into detailed questions. The room fell silent, the only sounds were Nie Huaisang’s pen and the tapping of their fingers on the screens. Wei Wuxian glanced at Lan Wangji’s screen, only to pause. 

“I haven’t seen that style,” He leaned in, interest clear in his tone. 

“The quizzes are generative,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “It covers most styles, but once it picks up on what you like it starts focusing on those styles. It isn’t perfect, as no one fits completely into one style, but it gives a very good starting point. I can also compare two quizzes to see where the overlap might be. Ideal when dealing with couples like you.” 

“Right, a couple.” Wei Wuxian breathed, the term still throwing him. 

“Don’t worry, looking the part is half the battle!” Nie Huaisang smiled. “You might be new to it, but no one will be able to clock it once I’m done with you.” 

Wei Wuxian returned his focus to the quiz, getting a crick in his neck by the time he was done. Lan Wangji wasn’t far behind. Nie Huaisang hummed as the table chimed, his hands quickly tapping away at it. 

“As expected, Lan-xiong,” Nie Huaisang hummed as he reviewed the results. “And Wei-xiong, huh,” He tilted his head. “That’s unexpected.” 

“What? How can my style be unexpected?” Wei Wuxian leaned in. 

“I just didn’t expect you to overlap with Lan-xiong so much.” 

“We overlap?” Lan Wangji questioned. 

“Mm, I would have put my money on Wei-xiong being punk or goth,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “While they certainly appear in your results, you blew past them into new Chinese style for your alt looks. Meanwhile, you also seem to have a fondness for vintage and academia looks.” 

“Academia?” Wei Wuxian blinked. 

“You might be most familiar with ‘Dark’ Academia,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “But there’s several iterations. It’s not uniforms either, think old money but cozier.” 

“Old money, you mentioned that in Lan Zhan’s style.” Wei Wuxian recognized. 

“Lan-xiong also had some positive hits on new Chinese style.” Nie Huaisang nodded. “Which makes me think that is our answer.” He tapped, bringing up an impressive array of photos in a short period of time. “New Chinese blends modern alt styles with hanfu and other traditional clothing pieces. Which makes me think of veils.” He pulled up an image of a veiled bamboo hat and a few other half face veils straight out of a c-drama. “The hat option would give us the most anonymity.” 

“What about visibility,” Wei Wuxian questioned. “I’m supposed to make night hunting appearances with Lan Zhan. A half veil might be more suited for it.” 

“We’ve developed a silk that’s opaque from one side, but entirely invisible from the other,” Nie Huaisang hummed. “It won’t hinder your vision at all. We can also weigh it to make sure it doesn’t fly up. If you want more security, I’m sure you’re already thinking of talismans we can incorporate.” 

“If we’re weighing it, we could weave something into the edge of the veil.” Wei Wuxian mused. “A voice changer at least, maybe something to obscure the contents too.” 

“See, I knew you’d have something.” Nie Huaisang hummed. “From there it’s creating a blend of the traditional, vintage and modern.” He tapped away at his table. The inspiration images shrunk, and instead technical drawings of clothing started to take center stage. Nie Huaisang moved them around, creating different options at a speed Wei Wuxian struggled to keep up with. 

At least he wasn’t seeing anything he hated. 

“Wait,” Nie Huaisang looked up. “Do you have a sword spirit?” 

“I do,” Wei Wuxian nodded. 

“Can I meet him?” 

“Them,” Wei Wuxian corrected. “Suibian?” He called. 

“Nie Huaisang,” Suibian appeared in a flash. They inclined their head. “Pleasure to finally meet you. Though I have words about how you’ve used my physical form.” 

“Heh,” Nie Huaisang blushed as he let out a nervous laugh. It was quickly replaced by his eyes scanning over Suibian’s form. “Oh you’re perfect.” He hummed.

“I still have words,” Suibian replied, despite a blush on their cheeks.  

“Which I will totally listen to at a later date,” Nie Huaisang held up a hand. “But right now, I’m in a flow. From what I know of Wei-xiong’s closet, we’ll need at least thirty pieces to cover the basics.” 

“Thirty?!” Wei Wuxian balked. 

“To start,” Nie Huaisang pressed. “You’ll need specialized formal pieces, but other than your introduction piece we can hold off on those for now. A bulk of it will be functional pieces for your night hunts, nicer pieces for public appearances, and then personal pieces to cover your mark. It’ll be best to work as if it’s a capsule wardrobe for now. Meanwhile,” He paused, tapping on the screen and pulling up a file. “I advise a minimum of five pieces for you Lan-xiong so we can start blending your style with Wei-xiongs.” 

“We’ll need accessories and ornaments as well,” Lan Wangji instructed. 

“I can go through the Lan treasury files and provide options.” Nie Huaisang hummed. 

“You just have files on the Lan treasury?” 

“Not the weapons and magic objects of course,” Nie Huaisang nodded. “But if you can wear it we have it logged. We might be called Tailors, but we also act as stylists in a way. Now, Wei-xiong come over here so we can finalize your pieces.” 

Wei Wuxian felt overwhelmed as he sat next to Nie Huaisang. Dozens of sketches flew past his eyes, and saying he liked it was only the beginning. From there it was discussing all the elements, from color and fabric to how he might want the piece adjusted. He’d barely made it two pieces before Lan Wangji was standing behind him. Wei Wuxian all but sighed in relief when he offered suggestions, making the barrage of options easier to navigate. Just when he thought he was finished, Nie Huaisang moved on to jewelry and collar preferences. Wei Wuxian was relieved when he could fall to the couch, letting Lan Wangji handle his own choices. 

At least now they could go home and relax. 

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji stopped him from flopping face first into the bed. “We should train.” 

“Right,” Wei Wuxian breathed. “Lead the way!”

Chapter Text

“You look-” 

Wei Wuxian jumped at the sound of Lan Wangji’s voice, his head turning. He felt his cheeks heat a bit as he looked back at the mirror he was in front of. Nie Huaisang had really done an excellent job. He’d leaned into the androgynous aspect, pairing a tang suit coat of dark navy with the bust high skirt of a qixiong ruqun. The skirt was white, with a cloud motif embroidered along the ribbon holding it up at the top, and along the bottom of the skirt. 

“It’s weird right,” Wei Wuxian hummed as he spun, the light diaphanous layers of the skirt spiralling out around him. “Huaisang also gave me little pads,” He tapped the bust line of the dress. “Said we should keep people guessing, but it’s making it hard to make the ribbon tie right.” 

“Let me,” Lan Wangji stepped forward. Wei Wuxian’s hands flew to keep everything in place as Lan Wangji tugged his sloppy bow out. His head dropped to watch Lan Wangji’s long fingers work, surprised to see he wasn’t just tying a bow but something more complex.  “No undershirt?” Lan Wangji broke the silence, his eyes flickering up to Wei Wuxian’s exposed collar bones.

“Most of it will be hidden by the veil,” Wei Wuxian pointed to the bamboo hat with a white veil he hadn’t put on yet. Clouds also decorated the edge of the veil, hiding the talisman work and weights.  “He thought it would give me some breathing room.” 

“No jewelry?" 

“Ah, there’s a hair piece. The top of my hair is going to go through the hat,” Wei Wuxian explained. “So it’ll stick out. Huaisang is only now realizing how much the veil impacts the options for accessories.” He chuckled. 

“You’d look nice with them,” Lan Wangji hummed. “But you don’t need them.” His hands fell away as he finished tying. Wei Wuxian’s attention dropped, unable to stop the giggle at what he saw. 

“It looks like a rabbit,” Wei Wuxian fiddled with the tall loops. 

“Bunny,” Lan Wangji corrected. 

“Isn’t that a rabbit?” 

“A baby rabbit,” Lan Wangji replied. “Much cuter.” 

Wei Wuxian couldn’t help laughing again. He’d learned Bichen had a strong fondness for rabbits, which she clearly got from Lan Wangji. Wei Wuxian turned, taking in the full outfit with the bunny knot. It looked a little funny, but for some reason Wei Wuxian couldn’t bear to undo it. 

“Can I scent you?” Lan Wangji murmured. Wei Wuxian’s eyes lifted from the reflection of the knot, rising to find Lan Wangji’s in the mirror. Only to find Lan Wangji’s eyes roving over Wei Wuxian’s body, lingering in particular on Wei Wuxian’s neck. 

“We’ve already had our three scentings today,” Wei Wuxian couldn’t resist teasing. Only to see Lan Wangji’s expression fall. “But,” he turned, tilting his head to expose his neck. “It would save me putting on one of those horrid perfumes Huaisang sent.” 

Lan Wangji stepped into Wei Wuxian’s space. His hand fell to Wei Wuxian’s hip as he carefully rubbed their necks together. Wei Wuxian’s whole body shook as he exhaled, his eyes falling closed as the warm scent of sandalwood consumed him. He shivered as Lan Wangji pressed his lips against Wei Wuxian’s scent gland. 

“You should let your scent out more,” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“A nuomici fan are we?” Wei Wuxian chuckled as he let his control of his scent loosen. “I’m used to keeping it controlled, suppose that will help us now.” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji took a deep inhale. His hand on Wei Wuxian’s hip sliding back around his hips, pulling them flush. 

Wei Wuxian felt himself flush. He still wasn’t used to this, this affection. Despite their doctor's instructions, they still hadn’t slept together again. They hadn’t even kissed. Even their scenting had been fairly tame, as if Lan Wangji was afraid Wei Wuxian would spook despite the fact they were bonded. Then again, Wei Wuxian supposed he hadn’t been the most traditionally receptive. 

But tonight was his first official appearance as Lan Furen. 

There would be no turning back from this. Sure, Lan Wangji had pulled Wei Wuxian aside and told him he’d make things work if he did want to take a posting in another city. But so far there was nothing pushing Wei Wuxian to run. So shouldn’t he put some effort in? 

He took a deep breath as he tucked his own nose into Lan Wangji’s neck. His hands came up to rest on Lan Wangji’s back. He felt Lan Wangji tense, for just a moment, when they settled. Wei Wuxian smiled. 

“How about a kiss for good luck?” He didn’t expect Lan Wangji to jerk. Surprise coloring his scent, his eyes searching Wei Wuxian’s face. “Come on, not like I’m asking for tongue or anything. Just a kiss!” He couldn’t resist teasing as he came up to tug on Lan Wangji’s suit coat. 

It was also a tang piece, but unlike Wei Wuxian he had the full suit. They must have been new pieces, as they were the reverse of Wei Wuxain’s. A white coat with dark blue pants. There was a sexy flash of ankle just above his white loafers. A few pieces of silver flashed from the accessories. His usual braid was slung over his shoulder, silver binding it instead of a usual hair tie. 

“Are you certain?” Lan Wangji murmured. His eyes dropped to Wei Wuxian’s lips. His arm tightening around Wei Wuxian’s hips. 

“I wouldn’t have offered otherwise,” Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. “If you don’t want-” 

Wei Wuxian broke off as Lan Wangji’s lips collided with his. There was a moment of surprise before Wei Wuxian tilted his head, and let his eyes flutter closed. His hand slid from Lan Wangji’s back and to the back of his neck. Lan Wangji seemed to take it as an invitation, his teeth nipping at Wei Wuxian’s bottom lip. Wei Wuxian couldn’t resist smiling as Lan Wangji’s nipping grew more insistent. 

“Ah!” Wei Wuxian gasped as his back hit the mirror. Lan Wangji used the opportunity to lick into his mouth, muffling Wei Wuxian’s next moan. 

Wei Wuxian wrapped his arms tighter around Lan Wangji, not sure how he could feel so hot yet still wanted Lan Wangji’s warmth even closer.  When they finally parted, it was gasping and lips kiss slick. 

“I know you didn’t ask for tongue,” Lan Wangji reached up, his thumb wiping at Wei Wuxian’s lips. Wei Wuxian blinked for a moment, before breaking into a laugh. 

“The freebie was noted,” Wei Wuxian laughed, his hands shifted playing with hair at Lan Wangji’s nape. The two fell into silence for a moment, both of them too busy staring at the others lips to notice the other. 

“We should get going,” Lan Wangji murmured as a clock chimed somewhere. 

“Right,” Wei Wuxian nodded. “Shouldn’t be late to my own introduction.” 

It took another clock chime to get them to finally move into action. Wei Wuxian grabbed the bamboo hat, turning back to the mirror as he focused on pulling his bun through the hole in the top. He had to flip the veil up to see, but with a bit of finagling it was through. Except now it looked all frizzy and lopsided. 

“Let me,” Lan Wangji stepped forward, tugging at Wei Wuxian’s hair. Wei Wuxian knelt to give him better access. “Where’s the piece you wanted to use?” 

“Just there,” Wei Wuxian pointed to where he’d set it out. He watched Lan Wangji arrange his hair with more skill than Wei Wuxian could ever manage, before settling the hair pins in place. They both had dangling bits, and Lan Wangji positioned them so they were on both sides. It added a bit of a flair to the top of the veil. 

With one last look at Wei Wuxian’s reflection, he dropped the veil in place. The veil, as Huaisang promised, was as clear as glass. Wei Wuxian spun and jumped, testing the weights. The veil spun, but never lifted high enough to see his face. Then it was the final test. 

“Well, how do I sound?” Wei Wuxian turned to Lan Wangji. 

“Not like yourself,” Lan Wangji offered after a moment’s thought. “It’s strange.” 

“I tried to aim for something neutral, which was harder than I expected. Especially since I had to record it to hear it myself.” Wei Wuxian hummed. “I ended up going for a layered effect, high and low.” 

“It’s strange,” Lan Wangji admitted. “Like a chorus or a reverb.” 

“Well, even the strange can be adjusted to.” Wei Wuxian nodded. “Let’s get this show on the road!” He moved to leave the room. 

Lan Wangji quickly caught up with him, tucking Wei Wuxian’s arm into the crook of his elbow. Wei Wuxian’s free hand slid into his pocket pulling out the battered phone he rarely used. He flipped to the messages, but still nothing. 

“Something wrong?” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“No,” Wei Wuxian snapped it closed. “Nothing.” He gave Lan Wangji a smile, only to realize it was fruitless with the veil. “Just silencing it, wouldn’t want a text to go off and give me a way.” 

“Remind me to replace it,” Lan Wangji hummed as Wei Wuxian slipped it back into his pocket. “We can keep the same number.” 

“Lan Zhan, if you upgrade everything I own people are going to notice.” Wei Wuxian shot back. 

“Only at College,” Lan Wangji hummed. “Once you start your job no one would be the wiser. Do you still wish to be part of the research sector?” 

“Yes,” Wei Wuxian’s hand tightened on Lan Wangji’s arm. “I mean night hunts are fun, but it would be too strange for someone from E class to land a job as an agent. Besides, I’ll still go night hunting with you.” 

“We still have a few months if you change your mind,” Lan Wangji hummed.

“I won’t,” Wei Wuxian hummed. His eyes shifted from him as they rounded the corner, coming face to face with a large door. Even with it closed, Wei Wuxian could hear the murmur of voices behind it. 

A party of every important person who lived within the barrier, potentially even some other barriers. Every major family, every bureaucrat and high ranking cultivator, all of them were waiting to meet the new Lan Furen. Wei Wuxian’s hand tightened on Lan Wangji’s arm. 

“You’ll do fine,” Lan Wangji murmured. 

“Even if I don’t, not like they’ll know who I really am.” Wei Wuxian let out a nervous chuckle. 

“Ready?” Lan Wangji questioned. Wei Wuxian took a deep breath before nodding. 

The doors opened, light spilling out into their hall. In an instant the murmurs died, leaving a tension in the air. With a squeeze to Wei Wuxian’s hand, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian stepped forward together. 

“Presenting the Barrier Master Lan Wangji and our new Lan Furen.” A voice boomed into the room. 

Wei Wuxian could feel the eyes on him as he and Lan Wangji moved through the room. They progressed down the main aisle and towards the table reserved for them. It took longer than Wei Wuxian expected for the whispers to start, but they did. His ears perked up as he tried to catch all of them. Most, as expected, were about the veil. Then a few began to notice the lack of name in his presentation. By the time they’d reached the table, everyone had pieced it together.  Wei Wuxian nodded as Lan Wangji handed him a tea cup,  before moving to present one to Lan Wangji. Wei Wuxian couldn’t keep from smiling as Lan Wangji’s lips curled ever so slightly. 

“I want to thank you all for coming,” Lan Wangji turned to address the room. “It is my greatest honor to introduce you to my mate.” The hand not holding his tea cup reached out, settling on Wei Wuxian’s lower back. “While my mate is looking forward to serving you all as Lan Furen, they have aspirations of their own. Aspirations they wish to earn on their own merits and skill.” He spun, Wei Wuxian eyed Lan Wangji. That was a unique spin, but it clearly was the right one. Wei Wuxian could already hear murmurs of approval. “Which is why I know that I could not have found a more perfect match. Together, we’ve already been able to restore the barrier to a state we haven’t seen in years. Which is why I ask for your trust, in my judgement and my choice. I also ask to respect my mate’s privacy as we proceed.” 

“I know it is hard to trust the unknown,” Wei Wuxian said. He heard murmurs rip around the room at the sound of his modified voice. “Which is why I hope to earn your trust and respect in the coming weeks as Lan Zhan and I begin handling our official duties. Until then, I am in your care.” He bowed. 

“We both are,” Lan Wangji followed him into the bow. 

“Come now, no reason to be so serious,” Someone called. “This is supposed to be a celebration!” 

“And a celebration it will be,” Wei Wuxian laughed as he straightened. 

“May the barrier stand strong, and our blades swing stronger.” Lan Wangji raised his cup. Wei Wuxian followed suit. 

It was still a relief when the whole room followed. Lan Qiren had warned them there might be protests. There had been Lan Furens who weren’t cultivators, or who kept out of the public eye, but they were all still known to the world. If there had been too much protesting, they might have had to scrap the whole plan. Wei Wuxian wasn’t taking this acceptance as approval though, he had a good feeling his performance in the coming weeks would be far more important than any words here. 

Lan Wangji said a few more words, before leading the room to sit. The food followed shortly after. Wei Wuxian took the opportunity to look around, not having to hide his gaze with his veil. Still, Wei Wuxian found himself avoiding looking at them. 

But he could only avoid looking at them for so long. 

The Jiangs were prominently in the front row, on the far right. The Jin were sat by the isle, the two families blending together where Jiang Yanli and Jin ZIxuan sat. Wei Wuxian’s eyes glossed over Jiang Fengmian and Madam Yu, landing on Jiang Cheng on their other side. He occupied a whole table by himself, no extra cushion or table setting. No extra space. It was as if their family was all there. 

Wei Wuxian’s phone suddenly felt like lead in his pocket. What had he expected? He’d so easily slipped out of their lives. This was what he wanted for them. A happy and whole family, looking picture perfect. Even if they had reached out to him, he would have turned them down. He’d have given a fake excuse to save them face. The result would have been the same. Tables set for four rather than five. 

It didn’t change how badly Wei Wuxian wanted to have at least gotten a text. 

“Alright?” Lan Wangji’s voice pulled Wei Wuxian’s gaze from the Jiangs. He was surprised to find Lan Wangji in his space, pressed up against his side. His hand had found its way to the other side of Wei Wuxian’s cushion, propped on the floor. Wei Wuxian’s ears prickled at the sound of camera shutters. 

“Fine,” Wei Wuxian murmured back. “It would be better if we had some wine.” 

“Lan rules-” 

“Prohibit alcohol, I know,” Wei Wuxian laughed as he leaned into him, letting Lan Wangji’s stretched arm support his back. Again, his ears prickled at the sound of camera shutters. “Still, you think you could cut the mate you're so wild about some slack.” He reached up, curling his finger as he booped Lan Wangji on the nose. 

The camera shutters sounded like a waterfall. It was almost amusing really. He saw Lan Wangji let out a huff, no doubt realizing what Wei Wuxian had. It was hard to tell if it was fond or exasperated over the sound of the cameras. Wei Wuxian supposed he’d just keep playing the game until he found out. 

“We’ll need to circulate now the food is gone,” Lan Wangji breathed, looking as if he’d rather walk barefoot into a fire. 

“Then it’s good you finally have a mate to help lighten the load,” Wei Wuxian smiled. “Shall we?” He held his hand out for Lan Wangji’s arm. 

Lan Wangji tucked it into the crook of his elbow as they descended into the crowd. Wei Wuxian let Lan Wangji do the introductions, but took over the small talk once he had. The moment Wei Wuxian felt the conversation start to strain, Lan Wangji was moving him to a new one. It was surprising how well they worked together. 

Sure they’d been training together, but even that wasn’t as seamless as this was already. Wei Wuxian found himself wondering if they could somehow utilize this in their training. Though he supposed there weren’t many monsters that could be talked to death. Still, it was showing that Lan Wangji was incredibly observant, Wei Wuxian could use that in a fight. 

“This is Jiang Fengmian and Yu Ziyuan,” Lan Wangji’s voice broke through Wei Wuxian’s fight scheming. Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened, he wasn’t ready. Maybe they could talk to someone else first? He glanced around, only to find the Jiangs were their last introduction. At least of those who were important enough to require one. “And their children, Jiang Wanyin and Jiang Yanli.” 

“Pleasure to meet you,” Wei Wuxian inclined his head, hoping his voice sounded even. “I hope you are finding the banquet to your liking.” 

“It’s splendid,” Jiang Fengmian smiled. 

“Though I do say our betrothal banquet for Yanli and Jin Zixuan a few weeks ago outshines it,” Madam Yu smiled. Wei Wuxian stiffened, betrothal banquet? He looked at Jiang Yanli, who was flushing red. 

Why hadn’t he been invited? Sure, Wei Wuxian hated Jin Zixuan’s guts but he was still…

He wasn’t anything to the Jiangs anymore, was he? Even now, they had no idea the boy they raised was standing in front of them. Did they think he was still living in their garage? When was the last time they’d thought to check? Worst of all, Wei Wuxian couldn’t even blame them. He’d always been skilled at everything he did, he shouldn’t have expected that erasing himself from the Jiang’s life would have been any different. 

“You know, it was only a few months ago you were considering our Yanli as your mate,” Madam Yu barrelled on. It was her favorite conversational tactic, bragging in a way that showed her superiority. Wei Wuxian hadn’t missed it. “I hope the new Lan Furen is as adept at social planning as she is-” 

“Mother,” Jiang Yanli hissed, her face red. Wei Wuxian’s hand tightened on Lan Wangji’s arm. It was fine, just Madam Yu’s social maneuvering. It wasn’t like he’d expected that to stop when he disappeared. On top of it, Jiang Yanli was actually able to speak up for herself instead of wasting her few chances on Wei Wuxian. 

“Don’t be shy my dear,” Madam Yu tutted. “You know, if you ever need any help planning anything my Yanli will always be eager to lend a hand.” 

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Wei Wuxian nodded, pushing sincerity into his tone. “Though we’re focusing on more important things right now, it'll be some time before we throw any parties.”

“I was quite impressed with the memos you sent out,” Jiang Fengmian stepped in as Madam Yu looked like Wei Wuxian had thrown water in her face. “You’ve got some rather ambitious plans to execute, as always the Jiangs are at your disposal.” 

“Yes, our son has nearly graduated himself!” Madam Yu recovered enough to jump back in. “I believe you two are in the same class? Partners even.” She looked to Lan Wangji. 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji hummed. “We’ll continue to be partnered for school, but my mate will be my partner during practical experience.” 

“Are you not in their class?” Madam Yu threw the loaded question at Wei Wuxian like a harpoon. 

“My lady,” Jiang Fengmian coughed. 

“It’s just if the Lan Furen is as good a match as we’ve been led to believe,” Madam Yu tithered. “One would think-” 

“Where is your ward?” Lan Wangji cut through. Wei Wuxian watched all of the Jiangs freeze. “Or do you no longer have one?” 

“Ah, Wei Wuxian is who you're thinking of,” Jiang Fengmian smiled. “The son of two very dear friends of mine.” 

“He was busy,” Madam Yu smiled. “Some school work he’d put off too long, you understand how it is with those kinds of students.” 

“He’s not stupid,” Jiang Cheng huffed in protest.

“No, just unmotivated,” Madam Yu’s hand clamped down on Jiang Cheng’s shoulder. “Which is by far a worse sin. We couldn’t do a thing with him.” 

“You’d be surprised,” Lan Wangji hummed. 

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian tried not to hiss. 

“Excuse us,” Lan Wangji’s arm shifted, settling on Wei Wuxian’s lower back. “We’ve a number of others to talk to, I’m sure we’ll have a chance to talk again.” 

“Of course,” Jiang Fengmian nodded. “I’m eager to talk about your initiatives, perhaps at the next council meeting.” 

“Until then,” Lan Wangji nodded. His arm was firm as he began to guide Wei Wuxian through the crowd. 

Yet instead of directing Wei Wuxian to another conversation, Lan Wangji guided them into the cool air of one of the side gardens that lead into the space. It wasn’t until they stepped out that Wei Wuxian realized how hot it had been in the room, and under his veil. 

“I apologize,” Lan Wangji murmured. “I was aware they must have been trying if you distanced yourself the way you did, but I didn't expect it to be so-” He broke off with a huff. 

“I think you were more affected than I was,” Wei Wuxian teased, trying to lighten Lan Wangji’s mood. 

“Did they even invite you?” Lan Wangji questioned. It felt like he’d stabbed Wei Wuxian, and the sharp inhale Wei Wuxian had taken at the question gave him away. What he didn’t expect was for Lan Wangji’s arms to wrap around him, pulling him close. “I’m sorry.” 

“It’s,” Wei Wuxian tried to resist, but the feeling of Lan Wangji’s arms tightening, pulling him closer made his resolve crumbled. “It’s really just a sign of how talented your mate is, really if that is any indicator my identity is going to be a secret forever!” He tried to play it off lightly. 

“If you ever wish to show them what they’re missing,” Lan Wangji murmured. “I’ll be at your side.” 

“It’s-” Wei Wuxian broke off, going to tuck his face into Lan Wangji’s neck only to hit him with the hat. 

“Here,” Lan Wangji let out a huff, Wei Wuxian was pretty sure it was a laugh. His hands gently guided Wei Wuxian’s head, positioning himself so Wei Wuxian could press into his neck without hitting him with the hat. The veil was still between them, but Wei Wuxian was still surprised to feel some of his tension ease. “Just so you know, it won’t be so easy to erase yourself from me.” 

“Oh?” Wei Wuxian laughed. “That sounds like a challenge.” 

“Take the time you need,” Lan Wangji pulled back. He caught one of Wei Wuxian’s hands, pressing a kiss to the back of it. “We talked to everyone we needed to.” 

“Need to,” Wei Wuxian sighed. “But not everyone.” He exhaled as he considered going back in. He was surprised to find himself wanting a few more moments out here in the cool air. “Just a few moments longer.” 

“Just don’t run off on me,” Lan Wangji hummed. His head tilted, in a way that almost made it look like he was smiling. Before Wei Wuxian could study it, Lan Wangji was slipping back into the banquet. 

Wei Wuxian exhaled as he looked up to the sky. Night had already fallen, and he felt himself smile as he realized the Lan estate was secluded and large enough to escape some of the light pollution. He tracked the stars he’d gotten so used to seeing outside the barrier. He felt some of the tension bleed from him. He supposed the small talk had taken more out of him than he expected. Just as he was ready to go back in, he saw it. 

A shadow flitting over the roof. 

Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened, his feet running across the garden and launching himself onto the roof. His eyes scanned the rooflines, and after a moment Wei Wuxian thought he might have imagined the shadow. Then he saw it, his feet light as he took off after. His free hand fished out a messenger talisman, biting at his thumb and scrawling a message. The butterfly flitting over his shoulder as he took off after the shadow. 

Wei Wuxian’s brow furrowed as it jumped down into the woods. Maybe they had already stolen or found what they wanted. Slipping in with the banquet would have been a great cover, but why not just slip back out with them? Wei Wuxian supposed it implied they were stealing something large enough to draw attention. Wei Wuxian kept his distance, keeping in the trees as he followed the shadow on the ground. It was dark enough he couldn’t make out any features from this distance, but the few times he got close he’d seen the shadow's head swivel in his direction. 

Except the longer Wei Wuxian followed him, the more confused Wei Wuxian became. He should be heading straight through the forest to get to the wall and out, but instead it was almost like this shadow was canvasing the forest? Was he looking for something? What could he be looking for in the woods? 

The barrier. 

The realization hit Wei Wuxian like a truck. He found a good perch, keeping an eye on the shadow as he quickly scrawled another message to Lan Wangji. He watched the butterfly flit off, only to stop a few trees away. The glow of its wings lit up Lan Wangji’s face as he accepted the message. His eyes met Wei Wuxian’s and gave him a nod, before jerking in a head clear ‘follow me’. 

Wei Wuxian quietly started to follow him, joining Lan Wangji on the ground. He pressed against the boulder Lan Wangji was hiding behind, only to swear as he fell through it. By the time he’d caught himself (after tumbling a few stairs) Lan Wangji had stepped inside. 

“Where did you think I was leading you?” Lan Wangji questioned. 

“I’ve only been here once,” Wei Wuxian shot back, hissing to keep his voice low. “How was I supposed to know what bolder this was?” 

“At least I don’t have to worry about you leading anyone here,” Lan Wangji hummed as he sipped past Wei Wuxian. 

“Where are we going?” Wei Wuxian questioned. “Shouldn’t we be worried about the intruder?” 

“Just by being within the wards, we’ve strengthened them.” Lan Wangji hummed. “If we choose to power up the wards, it’ll make the entrance practically invisible to anyone but us. I alerted the guards, so the best thing we can do is power up the barrier to make sure they can’t find it.” 

“Right,” Wei Wuxian started down the steps after Lan Wangji. 

It wasn’t until they were staring at the pool that Wei Wuxian paused to consider what ‘recharging’ the barrier might mean. Wei Wuxian shifted his weight from foot to foot as Lan Wangji slipped off his coat. He rolled up his sleeves as he approached the water, slipping his hands in. 

“Well?” Lan Wangji looked back at him. 

“Right,” Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened. He quickly shrugged off his jacket, shivering slightly as he moved to join Lan Wangji. He focused on his spiritual energy, channeling it out into the water. 

“Just an energy transfusion,” Lan Wangji hummed. “The longer we wait, the more potent the transfusion would have to be. At the same time, too many transfusions can weaken the barrier as well.” 

“Noted,” Wei Wuxian hummed. “Though I expect you no doubt already have a schedule drawn up.” 

“Mn, it would have been in two days.” Lan Wangji nodded. “So today is a bit early, but manageable.” 

“How much energy do we need to put in?” Wei Wuxian questioned. Lan Wangji tilted his head as he considered it.  

“We should transfuse for about fifteen minutes, it’ll be enough energy and give the guards time to canvas the forest.” Lan Wangji decided. Wei Wuxian let up a hum as he shifted, settling into a better position. 

Silence fell between the two of them, and Wei Wuxian used the time to study the barrier. It was fascinating, he’d never seen an array so complicated. Some of the external layers weren’t even related to powering the barrier, but hiding it. Wei Wuxian’s eyes trailed over how it all interconnected, his mind picking it apart and rebuilding it. 

Really it all came down to the camouflaging elements. While they were probably elegant at one point, now they were clunky. It was like reading Charles Dickens, using twelve words when only three were needed. As a result, it was putting unnecessary drain on the rest of the array. If there were just a few tweeks, the whole thing could run a lot smoother. 

“That should be enough,” Lan Wangji announced, jarring Wei Wuxian from his analysis. 

Wei Wuxian nodded as he pulled his hands out. When he was channeling, his own energy was keeping them warm. Now, his fingers were quickly turning numb. He quickly rubbed them together, his breath fogging up the air as he breathed into them. He smiled as Lan Wangji wrapped his jacket back around his shoulders. 

They slipped out of the barrier array, hurrying back to the main buildings. Wei Wuxian slowed as he realized they’d probably have to go back to the banquet. Lan Wangji stopped him when he went to head in that direction. 

“Go rest,” Lan Wangji hummed. “We just transfused a lot of energy.” 

“I’m fine,” Wei Wuxian pushed off the concern. “Can’t have them saying the Lan Furen ducked out early, can we?” 

“I’m going to explain the situation,” Lan Wangji hummed. “And see what the guards turned up.” 

“I can help.” 

“Go rest,” Lan Wangji pressed. “It needed more yin than yang energy, not to mention  you’re cold. Go get warm.” He added, slipping off his own jacket and wrapping it around Wei Wuxian. 

“Fine,” Wei Wuxian pouted. He slipped off back to their rooms, a hot shower quickly fixing his shivers. 

Except as he stepped back into the bedroom, he wasn’t ready to go to sleep. He kept turning that array over in his mind. He settled down at the desk, pulling out a piece of paper and starting to work out the camouflage layers of the array. 

“What is this?” Lan Wangji’s voice murmured. Wei Wuxian jumped, blinking slowly as his focus shifted from the mess of papers in front of him and to his mate. 

“What did they find on the intruder?” 

“Nothing,” Lan Wangji exhaled. Wei Wuxian arched an eyebrow as he saw a hint of annoyance. “Someone suggested you invented the situation.” 

“Why would I do that?” Wei Wuxian’s face screwed up in confusion. 

“It’s what I asked,” Lan Wangji huffed. He leaned over, shifting through the papers. “This is the array.” 

“Not the whole thing,” Wei Wuxian assured him. “Just the outer layers, the camouflaging ones. I just noticed they were a bit clunky.” 

“Clunky?” Lan Wangi arched an eyebrow. 

“Yeah, I mean look at all this excess.” Wei Wuxian pulled out the original array elements he’d copied down. He’d drawn lines through the excessive elements, which was about eighty percent of the layers. “If we simplify here, we can slip theses in. Not only will it be more energy efficient, but we can also add a few extra layers of protection.” 

“You did this in an hour?” Lan Wangji sorted through the pages. 

“Is that how long you’ve been gone?” Wei Wuxian blinked. Lan Wangji nodded. “Then yeah? But I started thinking about it while we were transfusing.” 

“These are genius.” 

“Ah, thanks,” Wei Wuxian felt his cheeks blush as he grinned. “Really just something to keep me busy until you come back.”

“You should write up a clean copy,” Lan Wangji hummed. “I can present it to the council.” 

“What?” Wei Wuxian blinked. 

“I want to expand the barrier,” Lan Wangji explained as he moved away, starting to shed some of his clothes. “But the energy load is too much, with your modifications it may be possible.” 

“You want to expand the barrier?” Wei Wuxian was on his feet, following Lan Wangji into the bathroom. 

“Our population is rising,” Lan Wangji replied. “We need more space, for living and for crops.” 

“We’re already the largest barrier.” 

“Mn,” Lan Wangji nodded. “Which means our cost for supplies from other cities is higher. The more self reliant we can be the better.” 

“Then yeah,” Wei Wuxian breathed. “I can write up a clean copy of my modifications for you.” 

“Perfect,” Lan Wangji smiled. Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened as he stripped out of his clothes. He spun around. 

“I’ll let you shower!” He fled the bathroom. He could have swore he heard a chuckle.