WangXian - I am Always With You

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/55809280.

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Archive Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Graphic Depictions Of
Violence, No Archive Warnings Apply
Category: M/M
Fandoms: 魔道祖师 - 墨香铜臭 | Módào Zǔshī - Mòxiāng Tóngxiù, 魔道祖师 |
Módào Zǔshī (Cartoon), 魔道祖师 | Módào Zǔshī (Webcomic)
Relationships: Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji/Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, Lan Yuan | Lan Sizhui &
Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji & Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, Lan Huan | Lan
Xichen & Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji, Jiang Cheng | Jiang Wanyin & Wei
Ying | Wei Wuxian, Nie Huaisang & Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, Jin Ling |
Jin Rulan & Lan Jingyi & Lan Yuan | Lan Sizhui & Ouyang Zizhen, Jin
Ling | Jin Rulan & Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng | Jiang Wanyin
& Jin Ling | Jin Rulan & Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian
Characters: Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji, Lan Huan | Lan Xichen,
Lan Yuan | Lan Sizhui, Jiang Cheng | Jiang Wanyin, Nie Huaisang
Additional Tags: Mentioned Meng Yao | Jin Guangyao, Hurt Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian,
Married Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji/Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian, BAMF Wei
Ying | Wei Wuxian, Protective Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji, Jiang Cheng |
Jiang Wanyin Needs a Hug, Jiang Cheng | Jiang Wanyin is So Done, Jin
Ling | Jin Rulan Needs a Hug
Language: English
Stats: Published: 2024-05-10 Words: 12,951 Chapters: 11/11
 WangXian - I am Always With You
by AikoChen01

Summary

Set after the events of the novel, Jin Guangyao is dead, the cultivation world is settling back
into a relaxed state. They start a new archery contest to celebrate their unity. However, Wei
Wuxian is injured during the contest by a final spy of Jin Guangyao. Will Lan Wangji save
him, and be able to garner their happily ever after?

Crossposted on Wattpad under same username

Notes

Cute Lan Wangji and Wei Ying? Yes please!

 Chapter 1

The morning sun illuminated the dew drenched ground of Gusu, the little fluffy rabbits
stirring from their sleep. It seemed today would be a clear day, as the normal mist wasn’t
present and the sky was a light blue. Everything was quiet and serene, a normal atmosphere
in the Cloud Recesses, until-

“Ahh Lan Zhan! Help!”

A man dressed in black and red sped past the bunnies, all of whom looked at him in
confusion. He was rather beautiful, with long black hair framing a delicate face with bright
silver eyes. Those bright silver eyes were currently filled with absolute terror as a dog with a
golden harness jumped through the rabbits.

“Lan Zhan! LAN ZHAN!” The poor man wailed. He scaled a tree in record time, trembling.
The sound of running footsteps could soon be heard as two people rushed towards him.

“Fairy! Come here,” a young cultivator in golden robes cooed. The dog, Fairy, stopped
barking and happily returned to its owner.

“Jin Ling, keep a better watch on that beast!” The man in the tree wailed, still not coming
down. Jin Ling raised an eyebrow, the vermillion red mark on his forehead visible through his
bangs. This young man was none other than the head of the Lanling Jin Clan.

“Fairy doesn’t bite,” Jin Ling said, crossing his arms. “She’s very well trained.”

However, the second person who had rushed over, a handsome man clad fully in white, with
a delicate cloud - patterned headband decorating his forehead, had stepped forward. He
opened his arms.

“Wei Ying,” the man coaxed. The man in the tree, Wei Ying, Wei Wuxian, the Yiling
Patriarch and famous Demonic Cultivator, fell into his husband’s arms with a whimper.

“Lan Zhannnnn, it’s so scary,” he whined. Lan Zhan, Lan Wangji, Hanguang Jun, one half of
the twin jades of Gusu, welcomed Wei Wuxian into his arms. Wei Wuxian felt the fear start to
fade, slowly. Lan Wangji always had that effect on him. They broke apart when Jin Ling
coughed, reminding them that they weren’t the only ones present. They didn’t move far
though: the dog was still there after all. Lan Wangji held Wei Wuxian gently, glaring fiercely
at the dog. Fairy whined, scared of the man in white. Jin Ling shooed Fairy away, sighing at
his uncles’ antics.

“ Anyway , I came here to see that idiot and Lan Sizhui. We want to practise for the upcoming
archery contest.”

Wei Wuxian waggled his eyebrows.

“Good to see you practising,” he said. “But why bring the beast?!” Wei Wuxian cried
dramatically. Jin Ling rolled his eyes at the two (mostly Wei Wuxian).

“As I said, Fairy is well trained. Just because you’re scared of dogs doesn’t mean everyone is.
Anyway, maybe you should get ready for the tournament too. I heard Hanguang Jun has to be
there as a judge,” Jin Ling retorted. He ran off after Fairy, leaving Wei Wuxian pouting up at
Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan, I don’t wanna go.”

Lan Wangji looked down fondly at him, and Wei Wuxian felt himself blush.

“Mm, brother wants me to go,” Lan Wangji said. “So I will. But I would feel much better is
Wei Ying was there too”

“Ugh, I’ll come but I am not looking forward to it,” Wei Wuxian declared, puffing out his
cheeks. This prompted Lan Wangji to poke them, leaving his husband in a fit of laughter.
Kneeling down, Wei Wuxian picked up a white bunny, patting the fluffball. It nuzzled his
robes, then started chewing on them. He let out a small laugh, gently detaching the rabbit and
handing it to Lan Wangji. He held it carefully, oh so carefully, and Wei Wuxian felt his heart
melt yet again. A swift breeze picked up, tousling their hair and robes. It really was a good
day today in Cloud Recesses.

Lan Sizhui had been woken up rather rudely by his friend, Lan Jingyi, who had wanted to
practise archery in preparation for the contest. Lan Sizhui avoided pointing out that it was 4
in the morning, that sleep was also necessary, but it was rare to see Lan Jingyi this animated.
About anything. So here they were, 4 hours later, at the archery grounds, when a young man
in golden robes appeared.

“Look! It’s the young mistress!” Lan Jingyi crowed.

“Oh look, it’s the idiot,” Jin Ling deadpanned.

“Guys,” Lan Sizhui groaned, “Do we always have to start a conversation like this?”

“Yes!” The two exclaimed. Lan Sizhui just sighed.

“So, young mistress, you ready to practise?” Lan Jingyi said, nudging Jin Ling. He earned
himself a glare.

“I am a Sect Leader now, dumbass, treat me with more respect!”

“Nah, you’ll always be the young mistress to me.”

Lan Sizhui stepped in between the two hotheads, holding his hands up in supplication.

“Why don’t we just start, then?” He said. He went over and picked up the bows they had
discarded, fitting an arrow decorated with the Gusu Lan symbol. Lan Sizhui pointed it at the
closest target, at around 50 meters away. He heard the other two picking up their own bows
and arrows. Simultaneously, three arrows hit the target. Lan Jingyi grinned at the other two.

“I think we’re doing pretty well.”

“That was one shot , idiot,” Jin Ling said.

“For you . Me and Sizhui have been here for hours .”

The three continued shooting, the trees watching their progress as the sun moved across the
sky. When the sun reached its apex, Lan Sizhui realised that he had not, in fact, had breakfast.
So he was starving . He would even go for some of Wei Wuxian’s extremely spicy food - his
foster father really loved his spices. Lan Jingyi groaned, realising the same thing. They met
each other’s gazes.

“Food?”

“Food.”

Jin Ling looked between the two of them, confused. But there was no stopping hungry
disciples. He had no choice but to follow them to the food hall, where lunch was being
served. Lan Jingyi rushed ahead, ignoring the rule about “running is prohibited inside Cloud
Recesses”. He really is the weirdest Lan in our clan , Lan Sizhui thought wryly. He walked
slowly with the young Sect Leader, who had also rolled his eyes at Lan Jingyi’s antics, even
though he himself wasn’t much better.

“How’s the Jin Clan going?” Lan Sizhui asked. Jin Ling had looked like something was
weighing on him, and Lan Sizhui felt the urge to comfort him.

“Well, after that whole fiasco with my uncle-”

“Which one?” Lan Sizhui said, smiling slightly. Jin Ling gave him the stink eye.

“You know which one. Jin Guangyao.”

A dark cloud covered Jin Ling’s expression, marring the usually disdainful face.

“Uncle Cheng is currently holding my position in the Jin Clan, and it seems that only half
wish to support my claim as Sect Leader. And since Jin Guangyao totally decimated the Jin
Clan’s reputation, the inhabitants of Lanling are a little wary of us now.”

Lan Sizhui put a hand on Jin Ling’s shoulder comfortingly, not noticing the faint blush that
dusted the younger’s cheeks.

“Me and Jinyi will be there, ok? And Father Wei and Hanguang Jun.”

Jin Ling just nodded. They’d reached the food hall, and Lan Sizhui’s stomach rumbled again
at the smell of Gusu’s plain cuisine. He grinned at Jin Ling.

“Let’s eat, how about it?”

The food these Lans ate was just so… boring. Wei Wuxian looked disdainfully down at the
boiled vegetables and plain rice. What he would give for his shijie’s lotus and pork rib
soup… He looked mournfully at the empty seat beside him. Lan Wangji had been summoned
by Lan Qiren, and Lan Zhan couldn’t ignore that. So he’d left, leaving Wei Wuxian with this
bowl of plain, plain, plain food. Lan Jingyi burst in, earning glares from the elders currently
in the dining hall. Wei Wuxian grinned.

“Jingyi!” Wei Wuxian yelled. The elders turned their glares towards him now, but he was
used to it. Lan Jingyi spotted him, and hurried over with his own bowl of plain food.

“Wei - Xiong! I heard Fairy chased you this morning,” the excited disciple said.

“No way, I would never-.”

“Are you lying again, Uncle?” Another voice butted in. Jin Ling raised an eyebrow,
unimpressed. Wei Wuxian gave him a shameless grin.

“Of course not! When have I ever lied to you?” Wei Wuxian said, putting on a fake
innocence act that made Lan Jingyi snort in a very un - lan like way. Lan Sizhui returned with
two more bowls of that food. Wei Wuxian eyed it in disgust as his foster son sat down next to
him.

“Hm? Where’s father?” Lan Sizhui asked.

Wei Wuxian waved a hand.

“That old fart summoned him. He didn’t get to give me my chili oil!” He cried in despair,
dramatically dropping his head on the table. Jin Ling rolled his eyes.

That kid is like a mirror image of Jiang Cheng , Wei Wuxian thought.

“Wei - Xiong, that chili oil is so spicy, though. I don’t get how you can possibly eat it!” Lan
Jingyi exclaimed.

“Next time Jin Ling visits Cheng - Cheng, ask him to get you some,” Wei Wuxian said.
“Lotus Pier has the best food. Like lotus and pork rib soup,” he said dreamily.

“My mother used to make that, right?” Jin Ling said, dampening the mood.

“Yes. Your mother made the best lotus and pork rib soup in the world,” Wei Wuxian told him.
Jin Ling’s face lit up a bit. He looked eager to question his uncle more, as Jiang Cheng never
told him much about his mother, but before he could interrogate Wei Wuxian, the two Twin
Jades of Gusu entered the hall.

“Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian raced over to him, jumping into his arms as Lan Wangji smiled.
Lan Xichen watched the two fondly.

“You took wayyyy too long,” Wei Wuxian complained.

“Mm.”

“Come back quicker next time.”

“Mm, will always come back to Wei Ying.”

“Ewww, I did not come here for more of that,” Jin Ling said, walking over with the other
two.

“Oh? How’s your archery going?” Lan Xichen asked kindly. Wei Wuxian could see the dark
pain that had been there since Jin Guangyao’s death in the elder Lan’s eyes, but it had
lessened. He wondered if that had something to do with a certain bad - tempered Sect Leader.
With the kids distracted, Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian out of the hall, quickly briefing him
on the upcoming archery contest.

“Damn, that sounds so boring,” Wei Wuxian complained. “I mean, we don’t even get to
participate.”

“It is for the younger generation,” Lan Wangji reminded him.

“I’m sad now, cheer me up Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian chirped. Lan Wangji was all too happy
to oblige.
 Chapter 2
Chapter Summary

To the contest!

This year, the archery contest was held in the Qinghe Nie Clan’s territory. Last time Wei
Wuxian had been to a contest like this, had been the year before The Qishan Wen Clan had
attacked. That brought back bad memories. But the competition wasn’t all bad. It was where
Wei Wuxian had met Wen Ning, the sweetest person you’d ever meet. Oh, and he’d pulled
Lan Zhan’s headband off accidentally, but let’s not go there.
They were currently on the way to the contest, and Wei Wuxian was bored. They were going
by horse, because it was more “proper”. He wished they flew there instead. But no. Old
master Lan had been adamant about doing it this way. Besides, quite a few of their disciples
were still mastering sword flight, including Lan Jingyi. So they had no choice. Wei Wuxian
missed Lil’Apple, his grumpy donkey. At least I’m riding with Lan Zhan, he thought,
tightening his grip around his husband’s waist. So it’s not all bad. The said person let go of
the reins with one hand to hold the hands around his waist. It was comforting. Wei Wuxian
never wanted to leave this man, this man who loved him so much. It was a feeling of peace
and comfort that Wei Wuxian never wanted to lose. This feeling of being wanted was so
foreign to him, but he loved it, and loved Lan Wangji more for giving that to him.

“Uncle?” Jin Ling asked.

Jiang Cheng, Jiang Wanyin, Sandu Shengshou, the Sect Leader of the Yunmeng Jiang Clan,
cast his nephew a glance. Behind them were the disciples from both the Jiang and Jin Clans,
following them to the contest grounds.
“What is it?” Jiang Cheng asked, looking entirely uninterested. Jin Ling cleared his throat,
nervous.
“Uh, may I ask why Sect Leader Lan was at Lotus Pier the other day?” He ventured.
“Official business,” his uncle said without batting an eye. To anyone who didn’t know him
well, they wouldn’t catch the slight softening of his features. Jin Ling, however, did see it. He
was pretty confused: he’d never seen his uncle soften for anyone. He shook his head, entirely
too scared to pursue those thoughts. Jiang Cheng cast him a sparing glance.
“Is there anything else?”
“Oh! I was wondering if you were going to talk with Senior Wei-.”
“No.”
“O - oh,” Jin Ling stammered. Wei Wuxian was a cursed subject with Jiang Cheng, but Jin
Ling secretly hoped his uncles would make up one day. Jiang Cheng didn’t seem eager to talk
anymore, so Jin Ling shut his mouth, unwilling to make his uncle more mad and threaten to
“break his legs”. Sometimes he wondered how Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng were so
different, being brothers and all. Well, adopted brothers, but still. He cast another sneaking
glance at his uncle. Jiang Cheng wasn’t bad looking, not at all: but there was just this
ferocious, angry aura around him that made him generally unapproachable. The opposite of
Wei Wuxian. Jin Ling sighed. Why did his uncles all have to be so complicated?

At the back of the Jiang and Jin procession, a lone Jin disciple watched the Sect Leaders.
Unlike his fellow disciples, he wasn’t particularly interested in the contest, or which sect
would win. Instead, he looked straight ahead, eyes unfocused, as though he was imagining
something horrifying.

Nie Huaisang was not looking forward to this. Why oh why did he have to hold the contest
this year?! It’s not like it was a problem or anything: he just hates socializing. It’s not like he
can talk with Wei Xiong either, considering everything that had happened. Nie Huaisang
didn’t regret it: it allowed Wei Wuxian to live the life he deserved, and achieve vengeance for
the death of Nie Huaisang’s brother, Nie Mingjue. To be honest, he was not looking forward
to seeing Sect Leader Lan either: Lan Xichen had been pretty miserable lately because of the
whole Jin Guangyao thing, but Nie Huaisang refused to believe that it was a mistake. Jin
Guangyao deserved death: there was no changing that. Su She was an added bonus,
considering all he’d done to Wei Wuxian. Nie Huaisang sighed, snapping his delicate fan
shut. He was currently in the gardens, watching the little birds fly around, wishing he could
be one of them. But he really should be inside, waiting for their first guests to arrive. As soon
as he had that thought, one of his disciples appeared.
“Sect Leader, the Gusu Lan Clan has arrived.”
Nie Huaisang let his face slip into one of his many masks, and gestured for the disciple to
show him the way.
Sometimes I just want to go back to being the “headshaker”, he thought ruefully.

Wei Wuxian, being Wei Wuxian, had been complaining loudly the last few kilometers to the
Nie Clan site. Everyone except Lan Wangji was totally fed up with him. Well, that was fine:
it would be easier to slip off after the greetings and get drunk then. As if Lan Wangji could
hear his thoughts, he twisted slightly in the saddle, raising an eyebrow at him. Wei Wuxian
just stuck out his tongue, causing his husband to sigh. There was no stopping Wei Wuxian.
Triumphant, Wei Wuxian relaxed into Lan Wangji’s back, able to feel his whipping scars
even through the layers of clothing. A pang of sadness and self loathing went through his
heart. He’d never been there for Lan Wangji, not when he really needed him. On the other
hand, the silent jade had always been there for him, even when the whole world was against
him. He really didn’t deserve Lan Wangji.
“Wei Ying.”
“Hm?” Wei Wuxian perked up when Lan Zhan spoke.
“We’re here,” he said, pointing out the four flags of the four major clans in the distance. A
group of Nie Clan disciples were waiting there, the Nie compound sprawling out behind them
and framed by a small mountain range. Wei Wuxian realised he’d never actually been to the
Qinghe Nie Clan. He’d never had any reason to, growing up in Yunmeng to studying in
Gusu, to watching his sister get married in Lanling. Oh, and getting tortured in Qishan, don’t
forget that. Anyway, Wei Wuxian noticed that the Nie Clan had a lot of unique foliage around
here: plants that can be used in medical prescriptions, flowers of different species and a
heavy smelling air. Wei Wuxian almost missed the misty Gusu grounds. It’s not that Qinghe
was bad, it’s more like… heavier. Hotter. Reminded him a bit too much of the Wen Clan.
Considering that the Wen Clan and Nie Clan were neighbours, it does make sense though.
“Ah, I’m so glad we’re here, Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian exclaimed.
“Mm,” Lan Wangji agreed. Ahead of them, Lan Xichen, courtesy name Lan Huan, held up a
hand as they neared the waiting disciples. Wei Wuxian didn’t bother to listen to the
pleasantries: he just wanted some food that was not Gusu cuisine, and a good jar of wine. Lan
Wangji noticed his husband’s animated attitude, and smiled.

The Jiang and Jin Clans arrived not long after. The Nie Clan disciples lead them to the base
of the mountain range, where a pavilion for the Sect Leaders and other guests were set up, as
well as archery targets and a start/finish line. Lan Wangji had been stationed inside the
hunting zone, along with a few other cultivators, just to make sure everything went smoothly.
Wei Wuxian was already missing Lan Wangji, and the annoyed looks Jiang Cheng was giving
him because of his moping weren’t helping. At the start line, the archers looked up at Nie
Huaisang, who had stood to address the rules.
“I know many of you have done this before, but we have to go through the rules for the
archery contest.
First rule is that if you miss a target, you are out. If you hit or attack another cultivator, you
are out. If you sabotage a cultivator in any way, you are out.
Second rule: don’t stray out of the allocated area. You will not get points for the demons you
kill outside of the allocated area.
Finally, attacking anyone participating removes your clan from the tournament for 3 years.
I hope that is adequate for you.”
Nie Huaisang watched them for a second, letting Wei Wuxian marvel at how much the
scared, timid boy he used to know has changed.
“You may begin.”
 Chapter 3
Chapter Summary

Let it begin

Jin Ling had participated in a few of these before, but as the Sect Leader, it would be
improper for him to do so now. So he had thought he would be stuck with an angry uncle and
a ditzy one, but Lan Xichen had made arrangements so he could participate too. Jin Ling was
still of participation age, so why shouldn’t he participate? That’s where he was right now,
running after Lan Sizhui through the mountain range. Lan Jingyi had branched off
somewhere, declaring that “Luck is on my side today!” Jin Ling snorted, getting a weird look
from the other Lan. That Jingyi was a weird one. Lan Sizhui suddenly stopped, and Jin Ling
plowed into him, not expecting that.

“Ow! Why’d you stop?” Jin Ling asked, annoyed, as he untangled himself from the Lan. Jin
Ling prayed that the elder wouldn’t see him blushing. Thankfully, Lan Sizhui just pointed up
ahead, and Jin Ling quickly realised what Lan Sizhui had seen. A whole nest of bird - like
creatures was up ahead. Since they were still within the boundaries, then these were part of
the contest. And killing as many as this would easily secure their spots. Jin Ling shared a
challenging look with Lan Sizhui, and both of them raced forward, determined to win.

Lan Jingyi thought he might’ve made a mistake. A teensy weensy one. Because there were
no monsters here. Not even a rogue spirit. He was tempted to shoot random things, but then
he’d be out. A lotus symbol appeared in the air as a dull gray colour.

“Aw, I thought it might be the young mistress,” Lan Jingyi muttered, slightly disappointed.
He’d seen a few go up: there might have been around 100 participants left out of 200. Lan
Jingyi realised he’d have to up his game if he wanted to get a good spot. So he quickly scaled
the nearest tree.

“I’m not going to lose,” he declared.

Lan Wangji was bored. These demons were all low level and easily dealt with. He’d much
rather be with his Wei Ying right now. He could tell by the fireworks that the Lan Clan was in
the lead, but only by a few points. The Jiang Clan was definitely close behind. A sudden aura
had Lan Wangji alert, pulling out his guqin, Wangji. This presence was definitely not part of
the competition. It was way too strong. Hanguang Jun leaped into the air, determined to find
this unholy energy.
The Sect Leaders were chatting amicably: or in the case of Jiang Cheng and Lan Xichen,
sitting closely together. It made Wei Wuxian grin. I hope he is happy , Wei Wuxian thought.
Too much had happened in their lives, it wasn’t fair if only Wei Wuxian found love. His
musings were cut short when a demonic presence cut through the mountains. Wei Wuxian
stopped cold. All the other cultivators there froze.

“That is not supposed to be in the contest,” Lan Xichen said.

“I have no record of a monster this powerful in Qinghe,” Nie Huaisang said, covering his
face with his fan. Jiang Cheng whipped out Sandu, knocking over Wei Wuxian’s tea. He
glared at his brother’s back. You did that on purpose, you sneak .

“We have to go in there,” Jiang Cheng declared.

“I can handle it.” Everyone looked at the Yiling Patriarch, who had an unusually stoic
expression. “My demonic cultivation should take care of this quickly.”

Lan Xichen nodded before anyone else could argue. He trusted Wei Wuxian.

“Go.”

Wei Wuxian nodded, quickly disappearing into the mountain range. He held Chengqing
tightly in his hand. This energy seemed too familiar, and it worried him. Because if this
creature was what he thought it was, then there was a low chance of even him defeating it.
And he knew Lan Wangji: his husband was probably already on his way. Wei Wuxian
definitely couldn’t let him attack it alone. So he sped up, passing a few confused cultivators.

The presence was only getting stronger, and Wei Wuxian’s heart sank. As he crested a ridge,
he saw it. It was flying over a small nest of very low ranked bird demons. A brilliant
vermillion pheasant. He cursed. The Zhuque. One of the Four Symbols of the Chinese
Constellations, just like the black turtle, the one he and Lan Zhan had defeated in their youth:
the Xuanwu. A battle cry drew his attention to a young cultivator in a gold robe, who was
charging into attack. A Lan disciple backed him up.

Why did it have to be them ?! Wei Wuxian thought in exasperation and fear. They’re going to
get themselves killed !

He jumped down, landing in front of Lan Sizhui, who stopped in his tracks.

“Father-,” he began, but Wei Wuxian cut him off.

“You absolutely cannot fight this beast,” Wei Wuxian said. Lan Sizhui backed down,
knowing to trust his father’s judgment.

“Jin Ling!” Lan Sizhui called. The hot headed teenager did not turn around, hacking at the
massive bird flying above them. Wei Wuxian let out an annoyed sigh.

“Stay back, A - Yuan.”

A black and red aura enveloped Wei Wuxian, his eyes sparking, bright as rubies. The Yiling
Patriarch had arrived. Twirling his flute Chengqing in his hand, he quickly moved forward,
his first aim to pull Jin Ling out of the way. The young cultivator let out a yelp as a hand
grabbed his collar and threw him backwards. Lan Sizhui caught Jin Ling, causing the latter to
blush. Now that he was out of the way, Wei Wuxian could fight. Bringing the flute up to his
lips, he played a frenzied tune, demonic energy spreading out around him. It caused the
Zhuque to go into a panic as a barrier of corrupted energy formed, stopping the vermillion
bird from escaping. Suddenly, a chain flew out of the ground, tying itself around the
Zhuque’s neck. It squawked indignantly and yanked upwards, revealing Wen Ning, the Ghost
General. Summoned by Weir Wuxian’s music, Wen Ning attacked, keeping the monster at
bay. However, there was a problem. Wei Wuxian could feel Mo Xuanyu’s weak core and
body faltering under such an onslaught of negative energy. With his old body, defeating the
Zhuque would’ve been within reality, but with Mo Xuanyu’s weak one, there was next to no
chance of such a thing. Nevertheless, Wei Wuxian continued to play Chengqing, keeping the
barrier up and Wen Ning attacking. The Zhuque, now enraged, swooped down, throwing Wen
Ning through the air. The ghost general hit a clif wall, and it crumbled on top of him.

“Wen Ning! Shit,” Wei Wuxian said as the Zhuque turned its attention to the demonic
cultivator. He readied himself to fight. The vermillion bird had proven itself to be very quick,
and it showed that in its next attack. Wei Wuxian barely had time to deflect a talon that would
have pierced his chest. He knew he was outmatched, but he couldn’t back down. Then, he
heard it. Lan Wangji’s guqin. Wei Wuxian was both relieved and fearful for his husband. But
that small distraction cost him. He turned, but not in time to deflect the next attack. The
Zhuque’s talon cut open his arm in a spray of blood. Wei Wuxian dropped to the ground, his
right hand trying to stop the bleeding.

I think… it hit… an artery , he thought slowly. A fog was invading his mind, making it
impossible to think clearly. Lan Zhan … He collapsed.
 Chapter 4
Chapter Summary

Oh no not Wei Ying! (Traumatising fictional characters =)

A chill went through Lan Wangji. He felt something had gone terribly wrong. Not long ago,
he’d sensed Wei Ying’s energy battling the creature, but just now it had… faded. As though
he’d died. Lan Wangji refused to believe it. Not Wei Ying. Not again. So he sped up,
determined to get there and find his Wei Ying. A faint red barrier crumbled away over a small
valley, so Lan Wangji headed for that, flying as fast as he could on his sword.

Lan Sizhui didn’t know what to do when he saw his father collapse. It scared him: he did not
want to lose Wei Wuxian again and who knows how his other father would react. Jin Ling,
who had been watching intently next to him, raced forward when Wei Wuxian fell, and Lan
Sizhui followed closely behind.

Cresting the slope, Lan Wangji felt his heart stop. Wei Ying was lying on the ground with
Lan Sizhui crouched over him, frantically feeding him some spiritual energy, while Jin Ling
held up his sword, as if that could ward off the massive beast flying around them.

The Zhuque , Lan Wangji thought in mild horror. Lan Wangji strummed his guqin, turning the
Zhuque’s attention away from his beloved. He couldn’t allow himself to fear: not until it was
defeated. But if Wei Ying hadn’t defeated it, there wasn’t much chance that Lan Zhan would.
Regardless, he would try.

Dropping down next to his son, Lan Wangji used his spiritual energy to guide Bichen, cutting
and hacking with the ice cold blade. The Zhuque squawked in outrage, swooping low for
another speed attack.

“It’s did this before!” Jin Ling yelled. There was no reason for you to yell , Lan Wangji
thought tiredly. He straightened his guqin and strummed, a wave of blue light flying out and
hitting the Zhuque. The vermillion bird did seem to be taking damage, but too slowly. Lan
Wangji gritted his teeth in frustration. He needed to tend to Wei Ying!

The massive collision of two demonic energies had been felt throughout the mountain range.
Lan Xichen knew that this beast was no ordinary one, that it could stand up to Wei Wuxian’s
demonic cultivation. Jiang Cheng seemed to agree.
“Huaisang, would it be acceptable to let me and Sect Leader Jiang go to assist?” Lan Xichen
asked politely. Nie Huaisang sighed behind his fan.

“You’re gonna go regardless, so I won’t stop you,” the tired Sect Leader sighed. Lan Xichen
bowed in thanks, then took off after Jiang Cheng, who had gone as soon as Nie Huaisang had
said yes.

The Zhuque was hurt, but Lan Wangji still couldn’t keep it back for much longer. Wei
Wuxian’s breathing had become laboured and erratic behind him, and Lan Wangji’s heart was
burning with worry. It took all he had just to not turn around and take his Wei Ying away, but
he couldn’t abandon Sizhui or Jin Ling. He refused to. Placing his fingers on the guqin, Lan
Wangji prepared to attack again when the notes of a familiar xiao (vertical flute) met his ears.
Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng flew over on their sword, his brother playing a calming song on
Liebing. Reaching the ground, Shuoyue and Sandu attacked. Lan Wangji was confident those
two could keep the Zhuque busy, so he turned to Wei Wuxian. His pulse was getting slower,
and he was very pale. Sending spiritual energy into his husband, Lan Wangji felt it get
blocked by some sort of poison. Panic welled up in Lan Wangji. He would not lose him. Not
again.

“Didi! Take him away!” Lan Xichen said, rushing towards them. Lan Wangji nodded at his
brother in thanks and picked Wei Wuxian up, bridal style, and took off on Bichen.

Ok so, the contest isn’t really going well. But that is to be expected , Lan Jingyi thought. Just
as he’d climbed high enough, he’d felt that strange energy. Then Wei Wuxian had flown
overhead. So something big was going on. Lan Jingyi, being insatiably curious, followed
behind Wei Xiong, only to fall off his sword because of a strong wind. Right now, he was
picking his way through the bushes. He had a bad feeling about this monster, something he
couldn’t quite put his finger on. A white cloth slipped down his forehead, and Lan Jingyi
stopped for a moment to tighten his headband.

It must’ve come loose when I fell , he thought. A squawk echoed through the trees and Jingyi
jumped.

“What the fu-.”

Lan Wangji flew over him, carrying a comatose Wei Xiong. Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui were
following close behind, but only Jin Ling noticed him. Rolling his eyes, he flew down.

“I heard you. You broke another rule,” Jin Ling said rather too gleefully.

“What happened?” Lan Jingyi asked, ignoring the young mistress. Worry and fear were
apparent on Jin Ling’s face.

“How about we follow them back, and I’ll explain on the way.”
The two junior cultivators boarded their swords and took off after the comatose man in black
and the frantic man in white.

Wei Wuxin felt… strange. It was like his body wanted to be awake, but couldn’t. He could
feel a foreign substance blocking up his dan tian, Mo Xuanyu’s weak golden core trying
desperately to repel it. He wasn’t in pain, exactly: it was just really uncomfortable. Shifting
about in the darkness, pain suddenly sliced through his arm.

How the hell does it hurt this much in a dreamscape ?! Wei Wuxian thought, hunching over
the invisible wound. When the pain settled enough for him to stand up straight, Wei Wuxian
noticed something that hadn’t been there before. A mythical beast on the same level as the
Zhuque and Xuanwu.

Here we go again , he sighed.

 Chapter 5
Chapter Summary

A little mythology...

Three days later, Wei Wuxian woke up. Lan Wangji had been sitting at his side, unwilling to
leave even for a moment. It had taken a considerable amount of time for Lan Xichen to
convince his brother to even eat. So everyone was pretty relieved when Wei Wuxian finally
woke up, blinking his silvery eyes at Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian asked, a little confused. Lan Wangji wanted to hug him so very
tightly, and never let go again, but the Lan doctors had said he shouldn’t move around too
much, so Lan Wangji settled for a quick kiss.

“Wei Ying,” he replied, the relief obvious in his voice.

“Didi, I have some-,” Lan Xichen said, walking into the Jingshi. “-bad news…”

Lan Wangji did not like that worry and sadness in his brother’s voice. He opened his mouth
to reply when Wei Wuxian sat up, clutching his head.

“Master Wei, you’re awake!” Lan Xichen said, smiling. Lan Wangji put an arm around his
husband’s back to keep him upright.

“You seem surprised,” Wei Wuxian joked, but Lan Wangji could see the pain in his eyes.

“Well, you were asleep for three days, and the doctors said it would take another few days at
least.”

At that, Wei Wuxian’s eyes had widened.

“I was asleep for three days? Damn, it felt so short,” he muttered, unconsciously leaning into
Lan Wangji.

“Sect Leader Lan, the doctors just-,” said Jiang Cheng, barging in and getting a glare from
Lan Wangji that shut him up on the spot. Wei Wuxian waved at Jiang Cheng.

“Cheng Cheng! I’m awake!”

Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes, but the relief in them was clear. Lan Xichen turned to the purple
sect leader.
“What were you saying, Wanyin?” he asked gently. Lan Wangji noted his brother’s use of
Jiang Cheng’s courtesy name. Jiang Cheng seemed to remember it.

“Oh, well, the doctors have confirmed it,” he said.

“Confirmed what?” Wei Wuxian asked, confused. Lan Xichen looked at Lan Wangji for
permission, and Lan Wangji reluctantly nodded.

“The poison from the Zhuque is incurable,” Jiang Cheng said simply. Lan Wangji whitened,
gripping Wei Wuxian’s hand hard as the latter’s eyes widened. Then he smiled softly.

“Actually, there is a cure,” Wei Wuxian said.

As it turned out, Wei Wuxian could never have a decent rest. So in those three days he was
sleeping, he was visited by someone.

Wei Wuxian sighed as he saw it. Here we go again , he thought miserably. Turning his
attention to the beast, he let himself examine it. A massive dragon was curled up in front of
him, watching him with keenly intelligent eyes. It’s scales were a beautiful azure colour,
paying homage to it’s name: the Azure Dragon, Qinglong. Wei Wuxian bowed his head in
respect, then waited for the Qinglong to make the first move. Sure enough, the mythical
dragon soon spoke.

“I’ve heard of you. You killed Xuanwu,” it mused, causing Wei Wuxian to stiffen. “Yes, I
remember. And now, you’ve been poisoned by Zhuque. You really don’t have too much luck.”

“...”

Wei Wuxian didn’t know what to say.

“Anyway, the Vermillion Bird has been pretty annoying recently,” it rumbled. “The White
Tiger, Baihu, seems to like you, so he sent me to tell you something.”

“Lord Qinglong, may I ask why?” Wei Wuxian said.

“Hm, I imagine you know the legends of the Four Symbols of the Constellations? Well, Baihu
always rewards those who are virtuous, and he seems to have taken a liking to you. I owe
him, so I’m doing this. I came here to tell you there is a way to heal that wound. A few
hundred years ago, I passed over this world, and my spiritual energy seeped into a plant.
This plant was a small flower, and it turned gold when it absorbed my qi. If you eat that, the
impurities from the Zhuque will be nullified.”

“Where is this flower?” Wei Wuxian asked. “How do you know it hasn’t been picked?”

The Azure Dragon laughed.

“You sure ask a lot of questions. I can still feel it. It’s still alive and well. But I don’t know
where that is, and I can’t guide you, so I’ll give you a seed in my place.”

A seed appeared above Wei Wuxian’s hands, and he held it gently.

“This seed will grow and wither depending on how close you are to the flower.”

Wei Wuxian smiled. “Thank you, great Lord Qinglong.”

Qinglong smiled back, a slightly terrifying sight.

“Now. Wake up.”

Wei Wuxian explained his dream, and opened his curled up left hand. In it, the seed was
safely held. A small green tendril was poking out already.

“You should leave as soon as possible,” Lan Xichen told them. “Take some disciples with
you.”

Wei Wuxian watched his husband acquiesce to the request, his golden eyes filled with a
tremulous hope. Jiang Cheng, who had been quiet this whole time, just nodded and walked
out. Lan Xichen quickly followed. Wei Wuxian made a mental note to ask Jiang Cheng about
Lan Xichen when he returned.

“Wei Ying.”

Wei Wuxian turned his silver eyes towards his beloved, meeting bright golden ones. He
reached out the hand that wasn’t holding the seed and cupped Lan Zhan’s face. They leaned
their foreheads together, their breaths mixing.

“Lan Zhan, I’m not leaving. Not again,” Wei Wuxian said, caressing his face. Lan Wangji’s
eyes darkened, and he pulled him into a searing kiss that made Wei Wuxian forget about the
poison, about the deep cut in his arm, and only about the warmth of Lan Zhan’s lips against
his. When they finally broke apart, Lan Wangji carefully helped Wei Wuxian lie down again,
his tenderness almost bringing tears to Wei Wuxian’s eyes. A wave of tiredness overtook
him, and he closed his eyes, falling back into sleep in an instant.

“Sleep well, Wei Ying. We leave tomorrow,” Lan Wangji said softly.
 Chapter 6
Chapter Summary

Annoying plant... annoying grape?

The seed was infuriating. Wei Wuxian glared down at it, the same tiny green stalk sprouting
that had been there for two days . They’d headed west from Gusu, however, the plant hadn’t
given them any sign that they were going in the right direction. Lan Jingyi was already
complaining profusely about it, Lan Sizhui trying to calm him down. Jin Ling had somehow
managed to convince Jiang Cheng to let him come (Wei Wuxian guessed that Lan Xichen had
a hand in it), so now the young master was shouting at Lan Jingyi to shut up. Wei Wuxian
could tell Lan Wangji really wanted them to be quiet, but he said nothing. Wei Wuxian turned
to Lan Zhan, about to propose a change of plans, when a shivering pain caused his legs to
give out.

“Wei Ying!” Lan Zhan said, catching him with a deeply worried expression.

“I’m ok, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian said, despite his death grip on Lan Zhan to keep himself
from falling over.

The three young cultivators had stopped arguing, looking at their Wei Xiong worriedly. His
time was running out.

Over the next few days, they changed directions, trying all around as fast as they could go.
Finally, on their way to the mountains near the Yunmeng Jiang Sect, the seedling started to
grow.

Lan Sizhui was rather tired. They’d been moving non stop, and while he would do anything
to save Wei Wuxian, they did need to rest. Something Hanguang Jun seemed to forget with
his husband in such bad shape. But Wei Wuxian had pretty much collapsed from exhaustion
and pain near the foot of a mountain, so they had made camp. Lan Jingyi had proclaimed that
he could start a fire in no time, and had failed miserably to Jin Ling’s absolute delight. The
yellow robed master also tried to start one, but to his utter shame, he couldn’t. Lan Sizhui had
seen that Lan Wangji was getting rather impatient, so he hurriedly lit it much to the detriment
of the others.

“It’s not fair,” Jinyi wailed. “You’re too good at everything!”

Jin Ling smacked him.

“Shut up, you just can’t do anything!”

“Well, you’re just the young mistress!”

Lan Sizhui sighed in defeat as they began yet another scuffle.

Later, when their tents were set up and Lan Wangji had sequestered himself off with his
husband, the three sat around the small fire, warming their hands in the chilly weather.

“Did Hanguang Jun seem to… recognise this place? Master Wei too?” Lan Jingyi asked
hesitantly.

“Yeah, me too,” Jin Ling muttered, poking at the fire with a branch. Lan Sizhui pushed some
errant strands back from his face. He knew. Lan Wangji had told him about this spot, during
the years Wei Wuxian was dead. But he didn’t say anything. That wouldn’t be fair to his
parents.

Some time later, Lan Jingyi dozed off, so the other two lugged him to their tent. He sprawled
out in the middle of it, as ungraceful as ever. Lan Sizhui smiled. He would never change.
Stepping back outside, he saw Jin Ling watching him. Even in the dark, the vermillion red
mark on his head stood out. Lan Sizhui wanted to touch it. He blushed at that thought.
Sometimes he wished he was Lan by blood, so it wouldn’t be so obvious when he blushed.
While he was internally panicking, Jin Ling had walked over, his cheeks red too.

“Do you think Wei Xiong will be ok?” Jin Ling asked. Lan Sizhui blinked, then nodded, his
expression softening.

“Father will never let him die again.”

Wei Wuxian woke up from a restless sleep, enveloped in the warm embrace of Lan Wangji.
He could feel the poison blocking up his qi, his dan tian. It was a suffocating feeling, but
being held by Lan Wangji made him feel safe, no matter what. He shifted slightly, trying not
to wake his sleeping spouse, but Lan Wangji was always attuned to him. His golden eyes
flew open, making sure his Wei Ying was alright. Wei Wuxian raised a hand to cup his face.
He was so beautiful: Lan Zhan truly lived up to his name as the Second Jade of Gusu. Lan
Wangji cupped Wei Wuxian’s hand with his own, nothing but love in his eyes. Wei Wuxian
shifted forward, kissing those soft lips. Lan Zhan kissed him back, the worry and desperation
he felt at Wei Wuxian’s situation obvious in every touch. Wei Wuxian pulled back, his other
hand tugging loosely at the Lan headband. Lan Wangji gently stopped him.

“Wei Ying needs to rest,” Lan Wangji told him seriously, making Wei Wuxian pout.

“But I don’t wanna~,” he said in a singsong voice that had Lan Zhan kissing him again. Wei
Wuxian giggled, delighted. But all too soon, Lan Wangji pulled away.

“Wei Ying must rest,” Lan Zhan said again.

“But Lan Zhan~.”

“No.”

Wei Wuxian humphed and snuggled into Lan Wangji, listening to his heartbeat. The breeze
outside ruffled the tent and the buzzing of cicadas was dying out. Wei Wuxian could vaguely
hear Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling talking outside, and he smirked as he guessed what they were
talking about. Lan Wangji placed a tender kiss on Wei Wuxian’s messy hair. Silver eyes met
gold as they smiled at each other, then settled down to sleep.
 Chapter 7
Chapter Summary

Lan Xichen using big brain

Something had been bothering Lan Xichen. The appearance of the Zhuque was just too
strange. Considering the number of cultivators around, it was rather weird that the Zhuque
would appear. In the Hanshi, Lan Xichen was looking at a compiled list of everyone who
came to the Nie Sect, which Nie Huaisang had generously provided, agreeing that the event
had been unusual. Being Sect Leader, Lan Xichen had taken it upon himself to figure out the
perpetrator and resolve it before his younger brother and Master Wei returned.

He turned his attention back to the list, firstly crossing off those he knew were guiltless. Wei
Wuxian, Lan Wangji, Jiang Wanyin, Lan Sizhui were the first to be crossed off. He wished he
could rule out Nie Huaisang, but the Nie Sect Leader had proved to be more troublesome
than he appeared. Lan Xichen believed that Jin Ling and Lan Jingyi were also blameless: Jin
Ling had become a little more mellowed with Wei Wuxian, and sincerely regretted hurting
him, while Jingyi… well, Jingyi was just Jingyi.

Now came the hard part. Lan Xichen compiled the names he didn’t immediately know: he
knew everyone from Gusu, but those from the Jiang and Jin sects were less familiar to him.
He also still hadn’t ruled out the possibility of Nie sect disciples being involved.

This is turning into a big fiasco , Lan Xichen sighed. A cool breeze wafted through the open
window, making some of the pages flutter. As they did so, Lan Xichen noticed something
strange about one of the Jin disciples. Extracting that sheet from the pile, Lan Xichen studied
him. This Jin disciple looked normal, but there was something older about him, an aura that
Lan Xichen could almost detect even through a picture of him.

“Lan Huan, I just received a message from Wei Wuxian-,” Jiang Cheng began, barging into
the Hanshi. Lan Xichen held back a smile. Jiang Cheng was never one to follow rules that he
didn’t like: in that way he was rather similar to Wei Wuxian. Lan Xichen didn’t want to
imagine the purple robed sect leader’s reaction if he was told that.

“Really? How are they going?” Lan Xichen asked, getting up gracefully, his robes fluttering
around him. Jiang Cheng had noticed the mess on the table and frowned. It was unlike
Xichen to be messy.

“What’s all this?” He asked, picking up the piece of paper Lan Xichen had been pouring
over.
“Tell me what the letter said first,” Lan Xichen replied. He saw Jiang Cheng roll his eyes at
Lan Xichen’s non - answer.

“According to this, the seed has sprouted most of the way, so they’re very close. But Lan
Wangji added at the end that Wei Wuxian’s condition is declining quickly.”

“Good news and bad news,” Lan Xichen said. He put a hand out for the letter, and Jiang
Cheng dropped it into his palm, sitting down in a swirl of robes and shuffling through the
disorganized pile.

Lan Xichen quickly scanned it, verifying the Jiang Leader’s words. He looked up to see Jiang
Cheng’s pale purple eyes looking at him, obviously demanding an answer. Lan Xichen
sighed, sitting down next to him.

“These are records of everyone who attended the contest. Nie Huaisang had them all
compiled, so I asked to see them,” Lan Xichen explained. Jiang Cheng frowned.

“But why are you looking at them?”

“The Zhuque definitely did not just appear there on it’s own,” Lan Xichen said. Jiang
Cheng’s expression grew thoughtful.

“I was thinking about that, but do you have any proof?” He countered. Lan Xichen sighed
again. He was sighing a lot today.

“No, but I thought this was as good a place to start as any.”

Abruptly, Jiang Cheng met his eyes.

“Let me help, Lan Huan,” Jiang Cheng said seriously. Lan Xichen smiled softly at him.

“Of course, Jiang Wanyin.”

Qinglong looked down into the mortal world, curious about this mortal named Wei Wuxian.
It was a miracle he was still alive after that attack from Zhuque, and now he was traveling to
find the only possible cure! Qinglong was mighty impressed: he could see why Baihu had
taken an interest in the demonic cultivator.

“Has he caught your attention too?” A rumbling voice asked. Qinglong didn’t need to look
around, he knew who it was.

“Baihu. I thought you were traversing the realms,” Qinglong said, azure scales shimmering in
the pale light. Baihu laughed, a low rumble in his chest. The famed White Tiger was
beautiful, with a luscious thick coat that looked like it was made of starlight.

“I wanted to see how this goes,” Baihu said. Qinlong harrumphed.

“So you made me do the work despite you being here all along?”
“Naturally.”

The two elder spirits sat side by side, watching a new story unfold from the highest peaks of
heaven.

Damn, my arm is really hurting , Wei Wuxian thought as they trekked up the mountain. It
was such a familiar sight, the deep green trees and lively birds flitting about. Memories from
the last time he had come here made his chest ache.

“Remember, don’t ever take off the blindfold.”

“I know,” Jiang Cheng said, securing it tightly. Wei Wuxian felt nervous about this, but there
was nothing he wouldn’t do for his brother.

“I’ll see you in a few days,” Wei Wuxian said, embracing him tightly.

The pain was so overwhelming. Wei Wuxian wasn’t sure how he got through it. Wen Qing had
been so stressed, and Wen Ning had still tried talking him out of it, but Wei Wuxian refused.
And, after 2 days and 2 nights, he saw his golden core in Wen Qing’s hand, glowing softly
and pulsing in time with his heart beat. Wen Ning had then helped him back down the
mountain, where he collapsed from extreme pain and exhaustion. A day later, Wen Chao
came for him.

They weren’t exactly good memories, but they were important. Wei Wuxian found it ironic
that he would come back here of all places to be healed: the mountain that he had claimed
was Baoshan Sanren’s. He let out a small snort, drawing Lan Wangji’s attention towards him.
Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi and Jin Ling were up ahead, the latter two competing to try and find
the flower first.

“Are you ok, Wei Ying?” Lan Zhan asked. Wei Wuxian nodded, reaching out and entwining
their hands.

“I’m good, Lan Zhan.”

In the end, the disciple Lan Xichen had picked out seemed the most likely suspect. He
intended to go see Nie Huaisang right away, but Jiang Cheng had insisted on coming along,
rubbing his ring threateningly. Arriving at the Nie Sect, Nie Huaisang had given them
permission to go investigate the contest grounds. Now both cultivators were at the spot the
Zhuque had been defeated. The massive monster had dissipated, leaving only remnants of
fighting. A sizzling sound caught Lan Xichen’s ear and he turned around just in time to see
Jiang Cheng hit a rock with Zidian, shattering it.

“Wanyin?” Lan Xichen asked.

“I found it.”

Hurrying over, both men looked at the carefully carved summoning circle, hidden behind the
tumbled rocks. Lan Xichen’s eyes widened in recognition.

“I know this formation.”

 Chapter 8
Chapter Summary

Cure?

“I found it!” Jin Ling shouted in excitement.

“Aw, no fair!” Lan Jingyi complained, Lan Sizhui coming up behind him. Jin Ling pointed
proudly to the small, vibrant flower at his feet. The petals shimmered with a pale gold that
stood out against the dark green backdrop. It looked so very delicate and pure, certainly not
something that was powerful enough to nullify such an ancient poison. Lan Sizhui crouched
down next to it. Jin Ling followed suit. He really wanted to touch it, but was afraid that he
would contaminate it somehow.

“Is Wei Qianbei coming?” Jin Ling asked. Lan Jingyi nodded.

“Hanguang Jun is just helping him now.”

Over the past few days, Wei Wuxian’s condition had deteriorated, and though he pretended
otherwise, it was a struggle for him just to stand. Soon enough, Jin Ling spotted the black nd
white pair making their way up.

“Up here!” Lan Jingyi shouted unnecessarily.

“And you say I’m annoying,” Jin Ling muttered, surprised when Lan Sizhui chuckled a little.

“Wow, look Lan Zhan, it’s so pretty!” Wei Wuxian said, dropping to the ground next to it. Jin
Ling saw Lan Sizhui put out a steadying hand on his back. Lan Wangji looked at the golden
flora, examining it.

“So… what now?” Lan Jingyi asked. Great question , Jin Ling thought sarcastically.

“I eat it,” Wei Wuxian said, sounding way too gleeful.

“Um, what if it’s poison?” Lan Jingyi pointed out. Jin Ling held back a snort.

“Stating the obvious now, are we?” Jin Ling said.

“Young mistress, that was just cruel,” Lan Jingyi retorted. Lan Sizhui stood up and grabbed
the other two.

“Fathers, we’ll wait over there,” Lan Sizhui said before dragging them off.
“Agh, Sizhui!” Jin Ling complained.

“Let’s just give them time, ok?” Lan Sizhui said. He cast a look back at them. “This is their
last hope for a cure.”

Lan Wangji watched in trepidation as his husband gently picked the flower up.

“Wei Ying,” he tried to say. Wei Wuxian looked up at him, those gorgeous silver eyes filled
with so much love Lan Wangji wouldn’t breathe.

“Lan Zhan, I promised I’d stay. I’m not going to break that promise,” Wei Wuxian said. He
stood up and kissed Lan Wangji, who kissed back with equal passion, the kiss a fiery
blending of tongues and teeth. Wei Wuxian pulled away all too soon: Lan Zhan didn’t want to
let go. But he stood back, despite everything in him aching to help the man in front of him.

Wei Wuxian smiled at Lan Wangji, then put the flower in his mouth. He wasn’t sure what he
expected it to taste like, so he was rather delighted when it melted in his tongue, tasting like
warm honey. A tingling sensation spread from his mouth to every inch of his body. He could
even feel Mo Xuanyu’s core soaking up this amazing spiritual energy. Then it faded, quickly
and surely. Wei Wuxian looked at Lan Wangji, then rolled up his sleeve. The wound was
gone, not a trace of the poison left.

“Lan Zhan! It worked!” He said happily. Consequently, he was enveloped in a back breaking
hug, which he returned happily.

“Sect Leader Lan! Sect Leader Jiang! May I ask what the purpose of this visit is?”

Jiang Cheng was feeling mighty annoyed. Lan Xichen refused to tell him where he’d seen
that formation before, and it was pissing him off. And now this stupid Jin disciple had the
audacity to stop them!

“Sect Leader Jiang is often here, is he not?” Lan Xichen said politely. “He just wanted to
collect something. I, on the other hand, am waiting for Sect Leader Jin to return. I have an
urgent matter to discuss with him.”

The disciple seemed to accept this, and finally allowed them entry.

“You are way too nice,” Jiang Cheng muttered once they were out of hearing range.

“I take that as a compliment, Wanyin,” Lan Xichen murmured back.

They made their way to Jin Guangyao’s old chambers, and opened the secret door. Stepping
back inside, Jiang Cheng had fierce flashbacks of when Wei Wuxian’s resurrection was
revealed to the world, right here in this very room. Lan Xichen laid a comforting hand on his
arm.

“I know. This room doesn’t hold good memories for me either.”

Lan Xichen immediately went about searching, pulling old tomes off the shelves and
generally creating a small mess. Jiang Cheng crossed his arms.

“Aren’t you supposed to be famously neat?”

“We don’t really have time for that, Wanyin,” Lan Xichen said.

“Would you tell me why we’re here? You do know that the Jin Clan’s secret room has been
moved since Jin Guangyao’s death?” Jiang Cheng asked, skepticism scribbled all over his
voice.

“Yes.”

“Then you’ll know the tomes you’re looking for are probably there.”

“No.”

“Could you be any more vague?!” Jiang Cheng shouted. Lan Xichen turned around.

“Sorry, Wanyin. But I found it,” Lan Xichen said with a half smile. Jiang Cheng groaned.

“Tell me what the hell this has to do with that disciple!?”

Lan Xichen flipped open the book to the middle, unfolding a diagram of a summoning circle.
It was indeed the same one.

“How did you know?”

“A - Yao once showed me an idea like that summoning circle, however, I thought he never
perfected it. Turns out I was wrong yet again,” Lan Xichen said with a sad smile. Jiang
Cheng had the weird urge to hug the Sect Leader. Then something else caught his eye.

“Xichen-,” he began, but couldn’t say anything before the circle lit up and the room
disappeared.
 Chapter 9
Chapter Summary

Whoops

Wei Wuxian was skipping down the mountain in jubilation, full of energy. Lan Wangji and
the other three were trailing behind, happy to see their Wei Gongzi back on his feet. Wei
Wuxian felt boundless energy flowing through him, almost like before he lost his core. He
was so happy he almost missed it. A young Jin disciple holding his leg behind some bushes,
bleeding profusely.

“Hey, who are you?” Wei Wuxian asked, approaching the boy. The golden clad youth looked
up, relief in his eyes.

“I’m Jin Fang’an. I was on my way to find you, Master Wei, when a monster attacked! It bit
my leg rather badly.”

“Uh huh. And why did you need to find me?” Wei Wuxian asked skeptically, cautiously
grabbing a hold of Chengqing.

“Sect Leader Lan and Sect Leader Jiang went missing, I flew here to tell you,” the disciple
said earnestly. By now, the rest of Wei Wuxian’s group had caught up, and Lan Wangji had a
hand on the hilt of Bichen.

“Take us there,” Wei Wuxian demanded. “ But let me see you wound first.”

He reached out and pulled away the shredded white cloth, revealing… no wound. The
disciple was not wounded. The light of a summoning circle illuminated their small band, and
Wei Wuxian only had time to think, I thought so , before they were all gone.

Lan Xichen could see that Jiang Cheng was livid. To be fair, Lan Xichen was pretty pissed
himself, not that he’d tell anyone that. Two sect leaders had just been captured, and by a
young disciple no less! Well, captured was a strong word for it. More like, Jin Fang’an had
taken Zidian, Shuoyue and Sandu away. Fortunately, the disciple had not noticed Liebing
stored away in Lan Xichen’s sleeve (because the Lan sleeves are endless). But Xichen
refused to leave, and had convinced a reluctant Wanyin to stay too. This would be their best
chance at subduing this young Jin, and besides, they didn’t know what other spells Jin
Fang’an might have from Jin Guangyao.

“Is he even coming back?” Jiang Cheng muttered, shifting against the wall.
Jin Fang’an hadn’t been totally incompetent: he’d chained their hands to the wall. It was
mighty annoying, but Lan Xichen could deal with it. Turns out Jiang Cheng could not. As
soon as Jin Fang’an had left, Jiang Cheng had ripped the chains right out of the wall. Lan
Xichen had held back from doing the same.

“Yes, Wanyin. But maybe you should consider at least pretending to still be tied up?” Lan
Xichen suggested, dark gold eyes staring into purple ones. Jiang Cheng sighed.
Unfortunately, they didn’t have time to do anything else before a summoning circle lit up on
the floor, and suddenly six people were transported into the old Jin treasury.

Wei Wuxian was not at all surprised to be back here, though he wished it could’ve been
anywhere else. This place held some bad memories. Though he had more pressing matters to
worry about right now, such as the blade currently held to his throat.

Well, doesn’t this feel familiar , he sighed. Out loud, he said, “Jin Fang’an, you better have a
good explanation for all of this.”

“Wangji?!” Lan Xichen exclaimed. Wei Wuxian noted that the two supposedly missing Sect
Leaders were right there.

“Shut up, all of you!” Fang’an yelled, pressing the blade tighter.

“This is like the temple all over again,” he remarked.

“You killed my brother!” Jin Fang’an yelled. “A - Yao only wanted the best for us!”

Lan Xichen had a sad look on his face, while the rest looked incredulous. Lan Wangji only
had eyes for Wei Ying, and the terribly familiar situation they were in.

“Young Jin, I don’t believe-,” Lan Xichen began.

“It’s true!”

Jin Fang’an obviously wouldn’t listen.

“Did you summon the Zhuque?” Lan Wangji asked quietly, causing the rest to look at him in
surprise. He rarely spoke up. Jin Fang’an snorted.

“Yeah, and it took a bloody lot of spiritual power, but A - Yao had figured out a way! I
promised him I would summon it if his plan failed,” he snarled. The knife tightened again.
Wei Wuxian could feel the edge cutting into his neck, and decided enough was enough. He
looked at Lan Zhan, who understood immediately. Since they’d been talking, Lan Wangji had
been secretly manipulating Bichen, which he had slipped out of it’s sheath just before the
transfer. Right now, it was behind Jin Fang’an, ready to strike. And strike it did, stabbing him
and giving Wei Wuxian the opportunity to twist free. Lan Sizhui had already pulled out his
own blade, ready to fight, with Jin Ling and Lan Jingyi backing him up. Jiang Cheng just
stood up, not being connected to the wall anyway. Jin Fang’an howled in pain, blood actually
rushing down his leg now, from a real wound. As the disciple straightened up, he saw the
cultivators in front of him, and knew that he was done.

“Long live Jin Guangyao,” he said. Wei Wuxian realised what he was about to do, but was
too late to stop Jin Fang’an as he slid the knife across his throat.
 Chapter 10
Chapter Summary

Last chapterrrrrrrrr

“Well, that was interesting,” Baihu remarked. Qinglong snorted next to him.

“Stating the obvious, are you?”

“It’s not like you weren’t thinking the same thing,” Baihu said calmly. Qinglong sighed,
knowing he couldn’t argue. Instead, he just settled down, content to watch the rest play out.

Back at Gusu, Wei Wuxian collapsed on the bed in the Jingshi.

“Lan Zhannnn, I’m so tireddd,” he complained. Two warm hands helped him sit up, then
began to massage his tense shoulders. Wei Wuxian leaned into the touch, content once again.
Absently, he tugged at his husband’s headband, playing with the soft silk. It was hard to
believe that he’d almost died, that he might’ve never been here again. He could tell Lan
Wangji was still terrified of that possibility, and Wei Wuxian didn’t blame him. He’d already
left Lan Zhan for 13 years, he refused to leave him again.

“Mm. Will never leave Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji said quietly, his hands tangled in the other’s
soft hair. Wei Wuxian realised with mild embarrassment that he’d said that out loud. Twisting
around so he was now sitting in Lan Zhan’s lap, he faced the handsome jade, taking it all in.
The beautiful face, always so emotionless, the gentle hands that had helped him through
many a tough spot, the golden eyes that held his heart. Wei Wuxian let his head fall onto Lan
Wangji’s shoulder, breathing in the calming sandalwood scent. He felt Lan Wangji wrap his
arms around his scrawny body, holding him close. Wei Wuxian pulled back, but only enough
so he could kiss that sharp nose, that white ribbon, those sculpted cheeks, and finally those
plump lips. I am never, ever , going to give this up , Wei Wuxian thought.

The Jin clan was in chaos. Again . Jin Ling was so very tired of it all, and just wanted to go
and sleep in Koi Tower. Unfortunately, being the Sect Leader meant he had to deal with all
this shit, so here he was, filing paperwork with help from his uncle, wishing he could just
leave.

“Concentrate,” Jiang Cheng snapped. “This’ll just take longer if you don’t.”

“I know jiujiu.”
Jiang Cheng just sighed. Jin Ling could tell he wasn’t fooling him.

“Is this about that young Lan? Lan Sizhui, I think?” Jiang Cheng suddenly asked. Jin Ling,
who was signing something important, jolted, the ink spraying across the document and onto
his pristine golden robes. Jiang Cheng only raised an eyebrow. Jin Ling coughed, then
muttered,

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I’ve seen how you look at him,” Jiang Cheng continued, a gleam in his eye. He is definitely
enjoying this , Jin Ling cursed mentally.

“Yeah, so what?” Jin Ling immediately snapped his mouth shut. Whoops.

“Should I break your legs?” Jiang Cheng said, the ring on his finger sparking. Jin Ling
hurriedly shook his head. There was silence for a while. Jin Ling was signing off the last
document when Jiang Cheng abruptly spoke up.

“The Annual Yunmeng festival begins in a few days. You are invited, and so are the Lans.”

With that, he left Jin Ling gaping at him, surrounded by mounds of paper.

Nie Huaisang was glad this was all over. It really was rather annoying.

“I never wanted to become a Sect Leader,” he sighed. He was doing that an awful lot these
days. After the death of Jin Fang’an, a meeting had been convened about Jin Guangyao. If
Nie Huaisang was honest, he had guessed that Jin Guangyao would make one last effort, even
if he was dead. Though, he was rather surprised that Jin Fang’an hadn’t gone after himself.
Anyway, he’d received a report that all was good in the cultivation world once more, so he
could go back to doing nothing. Nie Huaisang smiled. It would be nice to do nothing again.

Wei Wuxian was often the epitome of disaster, and he proved that when he went to visit
Yunmeng, just a day before the festival.

“A - Cheng!” He called cheerfully, red and black contrasting with the lilac and violet
decorations. As per usual, Jiang Wanyin scowled at him.

“What are you doing here?”

“Aw, am I not allowed to visit my own brother?” Wei Wuxian asked, pouting. He saw Jiang
Cheng cast a surreptitious eye behind Wei Wuxian, obviously looking for Lan Wangji. Wei
Wuxian smirked.

“Lan Zhan didn’t come today: Xichen - ge had something he needed help with, so it’s just
me!”
“...”

“Come on, be more excited!”

“No.”

Wei Wuxian just shook his head in mock disappointment.

“Anyway, I’m not just here for a social call.” This piqued Jiang Cheng’s interest.

“Oh?”

“Sect Leader Lan has compiled all of Jin Guangyao’s research, and he wanted to ask you to
come and give your input on it.” Wei Wuxian nearly laughed at the look on Jiang Cheng’s
face.

“When?”

“After the festival,” he replied. “Oh, and since I’ve delivered my message, I’m just gonna go
walk around, ‘kay.” Jiang Cheng stood up, sparks flying again.

“Wei Wu-,” he began, but his brother cut over him.

“Oh, and if you like Sect Leader Lan, why don’t you just say so,” Wei Wuxian said amicably.
He grinned and sauntered out of the hall, leaving Jiang Cheng embarrassed and shocked.

The festival at Yunmeng was beautiful, but even more so at night. As the sun set and the sky
darkened to black, Wei Wuxian sat at the edge of a pier, watching the fireflies come out.
Soon, lanterns would be launched into the sky, dancing among the stars. A gentle presence
made him shift over, and Lan Wangji sat down beside him, ever graceful. Wei Wuxian let out
a breath and dropped his head onto his husband’s shoulder. The two sat in silence, listening to
the humming of the crowds and the swirl of the water. It reminded Wei Wuxian of that time
that he’d brought Lan Zhan here, and Lan Zhan had caught him falling from that tree. That
might’ve been the moment he knew that he loved him.

“Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian said quietly.

“Mm?”

“I love you,” he murmured. He heard Lan Zhan’s breath catch, and then an arm circled his
waist, keeping him close.

“I love you too, Wei Ying.”

 Extra: Festival
Chapter Summary

A little happiness

The Yunmeng Jiang Clan was known for their beautiful scenery and lovely festivities.
Tonight was no exception. Jiang Cheng, courtesy name Jiang Wanyin, stood at the edge of
Lotus Pier, watching the light slowly come on, bringing the small city to life. It really had
been a hectic few days, and Jiang Cheng had to say he was looking forward to a night of rest.
Or he would be, if not for a certain pain in the backside.

“Jiang Chenggg!”

Speak of the devil and he shall appear , Jiang Cheng thought humourlessly. Turning around,
he dodged the menace that had just tried to tackle him. The bundle of black and red robes
sprawled on the docks, a white robed cultivator not far behind. Wei Ying, courtesy name Wei
Wuxian, and Jiang Cheng’s adopted brother, grinned up at him from the wooden floor. Jiang
Cheng ignored him, earning a pout. Jumping up with what seemed like boundless energy,
Wei Wuxian dusted off his robes, red ribbon fluttering in the light breeze.

“I never said you were invited,” Jiang Cheng said. “And considering what you said yesterday,
I don’t really want to talk to you.”

“That’s so mean,” Wei Wuxian said. Then his gaze became calculating. “I meant what I said,
A - Cheng.”

Before Jiang Cheng could whip him, Lan Zhan, courtesy name Lan Wangji swooped in and
pulled his husband out of harm's way. Jiang Cheng just turned back to the dock, Wei Wuxian
shouting a cheerful “see you later!” as the two love birds left.

The sky had almost completely faded to black by the time Lan Huan, courtesy name Lan
Xichen, had arrived in Yunmeng with a few more disciples. He’d been deciphering Jin
Guangyao’s research and, unlike himself, had forgotten the time. The few disciples who’d
waited for him - including young Lan Yuan, courtesy name Lan Sizhui - had missed a few
hours of the festival, something Lan Xichen felt a little guilty for. But as soon as they arrived,
he waved them away, watching with amusement as they took off in a very un - Lan like
manner. Lan Xichen breathed in deeply, the spicy, warm smells of Yunmeng a startling
contrast to the natural smells of Gusu, but Lan Xichen rather liked it anyway.

“Xichen ge!”
Lan Xichen smiled as Wei Wuxian came barrelling down the docks, Lan Wangji close behind
as always. Lan Xichen often wondered how Wei Wuxian had so much energy: it seemed
impossible to be so jumpy all the time.

“Xichen ge! I was looking for you,” Wei Wuxian said. Lan Xichen looked at his brother, who
only nodded. Lan Xichen raised an eyebrow, and Lan Wangji shook his head in response.

“Jiang Cheng looks lonely, I think you should cheer him up,” Wei Wuxian continued,
oblivious to the silent conversation between the two jades.

“Oh? Well we can’t have that, can we?” Lan Xichen said. Wei Wuxian winked at him before
grabbing Lan Wangji’s hand.

“Come on Lan Zhan! Let’s go get some pastries!”

And then they were gone, leaving Lan Xichen to go find Sect Leader Jiang.

“Oi, young mistress, why can’t we get something to eat? It’s a festival for god’s sake,” Lan
Jingyi complained loudly.

“Shut up, idiot,” Jin Ling said, annoyance sparking in his brown eyes. Lan Sizhui held back a
sigh as the three made their way through the thick crowds, the happy chatter and laughter
abounding. Lan Sizhui did not know where they were going, but he didn’t mind. He would
follow Jin Ling anywhere. Unfortunately, his childhood friend did not seem to agree.

“I’m hungry, young mistress, let’s get something to eat!”

“Hmph. You’re acting more like a young mistress than I am!”

“Stupid!”

“Dumbass!”

Lan Sizhui quickly got between the two before they could devolve into fisticuffs. A dark
green and black uniform caught his eye, and with a sigh of relief, Lan Sizhui pulled the other
two along after him.

“Ouyang Zizhen!” Lan Sizhui called. There was a no yelling rule in Gusu, but Sizhui doubted
Ouyang would hear him otherwise. The youth turned and smiled in surprise, the final
member of their ragtag group.

“Zizhen, you’re here too!” Lan Jingyi chirped happily, momentarily forgetting his argument
with Jin Ling. Ouyang Zizhen nodded, falling easily into conversation with Jingyi. It
reminded Lan Sizhui of the time they’d all been hunting those dead cats together: it was a
fond memory, despite the corpse poisoning and Wei Wuxian’s spicy soup (Lan Jingyi had
insisted afterwards that it had tasted like death). Jin Ling looked annoyed, so Lan Sizhui
decided to split up before the two could fight again. Ouyang Zizhen seemed to agree, and let
Lan Sizhui pull Jin Ling away. They walked through the festival in silence for a bit, before
Lan Sizhui broke the silence.

“Where were you taking us before?” He asked, curious. Jin Ling’s face lit up at the mention
of that.

“I’ll show you.”

The two youths took off, gold and white robes swirling in the dim light of the stars.

Jiang Cheng was still standing at the edge of the pier, watching the fireflies swarm the purple
lotuses that gave Lotus Pier its name. It reminded him of the nights he’d sit here with Shijie,
and Wei Wuxian, laughing and talking and playing in the dark light of the moon. The moon
was full tonight, brighter than Jiang Cheng had seen in years. A small smile flitted over his
face.

“I didn’t know you could smile.”

Jiang Cheng spun around, coming face to face with Lan Xichen, who was valiantly trying not
to laugh. Jiang Cheng’s usual scowl deepened, his cheeks burning.

“Sect Leader Lan,” Jiang Cheng said, turning back to the lotuses. Lan Xichen moved forward
to stand beside him.

“Aren’t you going to join the festivities, Wanyin?”

“I didn’t give you permission to call me that.”

“My apologies, Sect Leader Jiang,” Lan Xichen said. Jiang Cheng glanced at the elder jade,
his profile illuminated by the moon and lanterns.

“How did you find me?”

“Wei Wuxian said you were lonely,” Lan Xichen replied.

“Ugh, of course he did,” Jiang Cheng muttered. “I’m perfectly fine, Sect Leader Lan.”

“I can see that,” Lan Xichen said. Then he smiled his perfect smile. “But I’m here because I
want to be, Sect Leader Jiang.”

Jiang Cheng willed his cheeks to stay colourless, thanking the dark for mostly hiding his
expression.

“Why? You have many other people to enjoy the festival with, so why me?” Jiang Cheng
asked suddenly. He immediately wanted to take it back, but it was too late.

Lan Xichen hummed.

“Because I enjoy your company, Wanyin.”

Jiang Cheng was certain his heart had broken. It should not be pounding like this. Lan Xichen
didn’t continue, and soon the two Sect Leaders settled into a comfortable silence, the only
witnesses the moon as the fireflies.

Lan Sizhui looked around in awe. While Gusu had many beautiful places, Lotus Pier was an
entirely different type of beautiful. Jin Ling had brought him to a pavilion on the water,
connected to the main house by a small bridge. It was lavishly decorated, but some vines
were crawling over the roof and poles, giving it a mystic feeling.

“What is this place?” Lan Sizhui whispered. It felt disrespectful to be loud in this place.

“My grandmother used to come here a lot,” Jin Ling said softly. “Uncle mentioned once that
my mother also liked sitting here in the summer, watching the fish in the water and clouds in
the sky.”

Lan Sizhui was touched.

“You wanted to show us this? Even though it’s this special?”

Jin Ling looked away.

“Well, I really wanted to show it to you,” he said softly. “I mean, Jingyi too-.”

“It’s beautiful, thank you,” Lan Sizhui said. He felt his cheeks tint when Jin Ling smiled at
him. Sometimes he wished he had the Lan gene that made their ears turn red instead.

“Oi! I finally found you guys!”

Jin Ling scowled as Sizhui muffled a sigh. Lan Jingyi ran up to them, Ouyang Zizhen trailing
behind him.

“Can we please get food now?!” Lan Jingyi complained. Jin Ling gave in and nodded. As
their small group left the pavilion, Lan Sizhui smiled back at it, feeling at home.

“Lan Zhan, look look!” Wei Wuxian said, pointing at two shadows at the edge of the pier.
Lan Wangji only smiled at his husband. They’d been following the disciples around, and now
they were watching their brothers. Wei Wuxian felt Jiang Cheng deserved to be happy, so
he’d given him a little nudge. If he was pissed at him later, oh well.

“Let’s go back, Lan Zhan,” he said softly. “Let them have their moment.”
Wei Wuxian sat at the edge of a pier. A gentle presence made him shift over, and Lan Wangji
sat down beside him, ever graceful. Wei Wuxian let out a breath and dropped his head onto
his husband’s shoulder. The two sat in silence, listening to the humming of the crowds and
the swirl of the water. It reminded Wei Wuxian of that time that he’d brought Lan Zhan here,
and Lan Zhan had caught him falling from that tree. That might’ve been the moment he knew
that he loved him.

“Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian said quietly.

“Mm?”

“I love you,” he murmured. He heard Lan Zhan’s breath catch, and then an arm circled his
waist, keeping him close.

“I love you too, Wei Ying.”

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