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Chapter Text

“What do you mean, Wei Wuxian is alive?!”

            “You didn’t hear? He was singlehandedly responsible for the death of that evil Jin Guangyao!”

            It had only been a month since that night in Yunping City, but everyone had already begun gossiping like they had witnessed it. History really did repeat itself; sitting in a tavern much like thirteen years ago, a bunch of older men chattered back and forth animatedly.

            Someone else was skeptical. “Yeah? I heard it was more the work of the Two Jades of Lan. I don’t know about you, but I believe that more than that the Yiling Laozu suddenly turned good guy.”

            “Well, it’s true, even if you don’t believe it—it really was him! He was there, at least.”

            “I can’t believe he’s back. Who would want to bring such an evil man into the world again? Couldn’t they have brought back someone else? The Nie Sect could use its old leader back—why not start with Chifeng-Zun, huh? Why the infamous Yiling Laozu?”

            His companion snorted. “That’s old news; he’s not evil anymore. Word is, he’s even been hanging around Hanguang-Jun ever since he revived. You tell me—purer than snow, cleansed by moonlight—all that good stuff, would Hanguang-Jun really associate with such an evil man?”

            This seemed to enrage the other man. “Now you’re just speaking nonsense! Hanguang-Jun would never associate with the Yiling Laozu, unless it was to bring him to justice. Can’t you remember how they were during the Sunshot Campaign? He always hated him; everyone knew that.”

            “You’re so old, you’ve gone senile. Wei Wuxian really is different now! There’s even talk…” The man lowered his voice and leaned closer. “There’s even talk that the Yiling Laozu and Hanguang-Jun became…cultivation partners! Right after the attack at the Guanyin Temple! Didn’t waste any time, from the sound of it.”

            “That is nonsense! I wouldn’t believe that if the gods told me that themselves. Hanguang-Jun isn’t a cutsleeve!! Not to mention, he’d never even be friends with someone like the Yiling Laozu, much less...Bah! It’s been thirteen years, but my memory’s better than yours. Have you forgotten what Wei Ying did in the first place? Who he killed? Who his pet—”

            A teacup slammed down on a table nearby. The gossipers jumped a mile when they saw a youth clothed in sparkling white robes. Sparks Amidst Snow blossomed across the uniform’s chest, and under a fringe of jet-black hair, cold, enraged eyes met those of the man who had badmouthed the most.

            A month ago, the sight of Sparks Amidst Snow would have brought those men to their knees in absolution for whatever offense they may have caused with their gossiping. But now the Chief Cultivator was dead—not only dead but reviled, and the Jin Sect had lost much of its sway.

            Still, seeing such an angry young master spelled trouble indeed. The teashop owner hurried over. He saluted the youth, making eyes at the other customers to do the same. “Jin Zongzhu, don’t mind them, please.”

            The men at the table startled so violently that a teacup shattered. Not only a youth of the proud Jin Sect, but the nephew of Jin Guangyao? The Jin Sect’s brand new sect leader?

            The men immediately saluted and bowed their heads low. “Jin Zongzhu,” they said in unison.

            The teashop owner quickly refilled Jin Ling’s tea. “Have you found everything to you liking, Jin Zongzhu? Can I get you anything more?”

            Jin Ling was still glowering. He debated a few different ways of responding before he stood briskly. He didn’t bother answering the owner, but he also didn’t call his well-known spiritual dog over to come and chomp the careless talkers into tiny pieces, which the men found a good sign.

            Jin Ling stormed out of the teashop. His fist was clenched so tight around his sword hilt that his knuckles were pale as bone. He whistled for Fairy but only managed to march a few steps before a cold, annoyed voice snapped his name.

            Jin Ling whipped around and frowned when he saw his uncle. Jiang Cheng was clad in his sect’s purple robes, leaning against the side of the teahouse.

            Jiang Cheng scowled at Jin Ling’s reaction. “What’s wrong with your face?”

            Jin Ling’s expression only darkened. Neither of them realized it, but he looked very much like his uncle with such a grimace. “Nothing.”

            Jiang Cheng gave a derisive snort. “Getting upset by such idle chatter? Pathetic. Haven’t you been taught better than that?”

            Jin Ling protested, “I didn’t do anything! They—”

            Jiang Cheng, “You, a sect leader, discomposed yourself in front of them.”

            Jin Ling’s glower strengthened. “Why are you even here?!”

            Jiang Cheng’s eyes flashed. He pushed off the wall. “Is this how you speak to your uncle now?”

            Jin Ling shrank back a step. He knew when to press Jiang Cheng and when to back down. Though he didn’t apologize, his expression softened. “I only meant, why aren’t you at Lotus Pier? I was supposed to come see—” Color dotted his cheeks, and he dropped his eyes.

            Jiang Cheng gave another snort. “So, you do remember. You were supposed to come see me right after you were finished in Lanling. And how many days has it been since then?”

            Jin Ling frowned at the ground. “I was on my way.”

            Jiang Cheng gave the street a pointed look. “Funny. I don’t recall this being on the way to Lotus Pier.” Jiang Cheng stared at him for a long moment. “I told you not to bother them anymore.”

            Jin Ling, “I’m not! I wasn’t here to…I-I was just—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Each to their own sect. You’re a sect leader now; you have your own things to concern yourself with.”

            Jin Ling’s scowl returned, but it looked different.

            Jiang Cheng breathed out sharply through his nose. He didn’t like these sorts of conversations and avoided them whenever possible, but with the boy’s softer uncle dead, he was by himself. Still, as he repeated, “What’s wrong with your face?”, it didn’t sound soft at all.

            Jin Ling was used to his gruffness, though, and didn’t mind. “Nothing.”

            Jiang Cheng looked down the street, wagering a guess. His tone was still harsh when he said, “Those Lan Sect juniors are still running around with him, is that it? You want to join them? Well, you can’t. You’re a sect leader now. They can run around all they like, but you have responsibilities.” But that wasn’t what he meant to say at all.

            Jin Ling glared up at him. “Don’t you think I know that? I said nothing was wrong! Why do you always harass people like this?!”         

            Jiang Cheng knew there was more. He glanced at the teahouse. It was difficult for him to continue, and his voice was gruff enough to prove it. “Don’t listen to such idle talk anymore.”

            Jin Ling looked up at him with owlish eyes, finally caught off-guard.

            In truth, neither of them knew how to feel towards Wei Wuxian, and after everything that had happened in the Guanyin Temple, Jin Ling was more confused than ever. He’d always hated Wei Wuxian and the weapon he’d used to kill his father, but things had become far more complicated. Wei Wuxian wasn’t at all the evil man Jin Ling had always imagined, and Wen Ning had even gone as far as to save his and his uncle’s lives at the temple.

            But neither Jin Ling nor his uncle were the type to talk about such things so easily, and so everything went unsaid.

            After a moment of silence, Jiang Cheng breathed out sharply through his nose. “Come on. We’re going back to Lotus Pier.”

            Jin Ling didn’t argue for once. He turned and walked towards the road that would get them there.

            Jiang Cheng watched him for a moment, deep in thought, before he finally followed.

Chapter Text

Lan Sizhui was sitting properly, listening with rapt attention to Lan Wangji. In fact, all the juniors were. Not only was Hanguang-Jun an impressive figure that everyone revered and admired but the one beside him, occasionally giving offhand comments or teasing remarks when he deemed it necessary, was none other than the Yiling Laozu. Even those who hadn’t been at the Guanyin Temple and seen firsthand what had happened were giving the two their utmost respect and attention.

            Wei Wuxian found it inexplicably funny. True, he too revered Hanguang-Jun, but his thoughts were far less straightforward and earnest as he watched Lan Wangji’s lecture.

            Wei Wuxian was nowhere close to sitting in a proper position anymore. He was hunched over his table, elbow on the surface, chin in his hand, fingers fluttering absentmindedly over the tassel at the end of Bichen’s hilt. Lan Wangji’s voice was as smooth and monotoned as always, but Wei Wuxian found himself unable to look away. He had a faint smile hovering at his lips, one he hadn’t consciously put there. True, he was almost always smiling, but for some reason today he was especially happy sitting in this stuffy room listening to Hanguang-Jun’s smooth, deep voice. If he had to guess, Wei Wuxian suspected his private happiness was from the fact that, once, he’d sat in this very same room, bored out of his mind during Lan Qiren’s lectures, hiding behind a youthful Lan Wangji as he snuck in some sleep during class.

            The disparity between then and now wasn’t too big, Wei Wuxian supposed. He was still zoning out, though the subject of his daydreams had changed drastically.

            None of the juniors in the room were unaware of the look in Wei Wuxian’s eyes—an adoring look even he didn’t realize he wore—nor the meaning behind it, but they were all quite used to it by now. They’d all seen Hanguang-Jun and Wei Qianbei around the Cloud Recesses when they thought no one was paying attention, and they knew how close these cultivation partners had become. Though most of the juniors still blushed when they saw Wei Wuxian’s soft-eyed look or heard Lan Wangji’s gentle tone—a tone he used on no one but Wei Wuxian—they’d quickly acclimated to their obvious closeness. Even during these lectures, the juniors were able to mostly, if not entirely, look past Wei Wuxian’s entranced expression and focus on Hanguang-Jun’s words.

            Wei Wuxian’s mind had been drifting in a particular direction all morning, and he wasn’t trying very hard to reel it back in. Suddenly, Wei Wuxian thrust his hand into the air. “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun! I have a question.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched very faintly. His gaze slid over to the man seated improperly beside him. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian’s answering grin could only mean trouble. “You’ve talked about all sorts of things all morning, but you haven’t mentioned a single thing about the waterborne abyss. What about that?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression didn’t change in the slightest as Wei Wuxian’s grin broadened. If not for the faintest twitch of Lan Wangji’s fingers on his own knee or the way he very minutely shook his head, Wei Wuxian might have suspected he was unaffected by his words.

            The juniors were surprised when Lan Wangji seemingly ignored the question and continued with what he had been talking about.

            Wei Wuxian snickered to himself and reached lower to play with Bichen’s sword hilt. His fingers traced the characters etched into the sheath before he wrapped them around the hilt, not-so-innocuously stroking it, as if absentminded.

            Lan Wangji still didn’t look affected at all; in fact, he seemed to be ignoring Wei Wuxian entirely, but his fingers had curled slightly on his knee, as if wanting to form a fist. Immediately, he loosened them again, raising his head a fraction.

            Wei Wuxian grinned. The waterborne abyss was something he’d begun to teasingly use as a euphemism whenever he wanted Lan Wangji. An insatiable creature who demanded favor more and more regularly—what possible better comparison could there be to Wei Wuxian?

            He raised his hand again. “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun, I’m afraid my question really can’t wait this time. What about the waterborne abyss?”

            Lan Wangji ignored him with great effort, though Wei Wuxian’s meaning was obviously not lost on him, as he finally closed his hands into loose fists.

            The juniors in the room had no idea that was going on. When Lan Wangji ended class early, no one thought anything of it, only celebrating quietly as they hurried out into the sunshine.

            Wei Wuxian’s grin turned almost wicked. “Oh? Ending class early, Lan Er-Gege? That’s so unlike you! How will these juniors ever learn to tame a water—”

            Lan Wangji didn’t use words when he could use action. Unable to bear more of Wei Wuxian’s teasing, he silenced him with a heated kiss. Wei Wuxian melted into it contentedly, locking his arms around his neck. Lan Wangji waved a hand at the doors, closing and locking them. Only afterwards did he part from Wei Wuxian, giving him an almost angry look—a look Wei Wuxian had learned to read and knew it meant anything but anger.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled and crawled into his lap. He dropped his hips without delay, grinding against him slowly as he hummed, “It was a serious question. What does one do for a waterborne abyss?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together. “Inappropriate.”

            Wei Wuxian slowed his grind as he felt both of them respond favorably to it. He felt breathless even as he teased, “Well, yes, but then again, I didn’t end class early so I could fuck my—”

            Lan Wangji’s lips silenced him again. He tipped him back, pinning him to the desk slowly. Wei Wuxian’s laugh came through his nose as he wrapped his legs around Lan Wangji’s waist.

            Lan Wangji pulled back to give Wei Wuxian a dry look. “For a waterborne abyss, one must dry the lake and leave it untouched for five years.”

            Wei Wuxian’s grin only grew. He knew he was threatening him with something he couldn’t uphold. “Oh? Leave a waterborne abyss to take care of itself then? Alright.” Brazenly, he reached between them and stroked himself through his robes.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed down as he caught Wei Wuxian’s wrist. He shook his head, as if resigned—perhaps realizing his own thin threat had been seen through at once—and then pinned both of Wei Wuxian’s hands above his head on the desk. “Impudent.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “Are you going to punish me, Lan Er-Gege?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened faintly, his earlobes growing faintly pink. “I told you not to call me like that.”

            Wei Wuxian licked his own lips slowly. “Oh? You didn’t seem to mind it when I cried it out last night.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw tightened as he glanced away. It took him a long moment to find his voice. “Shameless!”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled and bucked his hips pointedly, feeling Lan Wangji’s hardness against his own. “If I’m shameless for saying it,” he panted, “aren’t you for liking it?”

            Lan Wangji finally couldn’t take his teasing. He surged forward, connecting their lips and hips again. Lan Wangji’s fingers trailed down Wei Wuxian’s side and slipped under his robes to find his length. Wei Wuxian rolled his hips into it, breathlessly breaking from Lan Wangji’s kiss with a whine. After a moment of consideration, Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian’s trousers off with one hand and lowered his own.

            Wei Wuxian was well known for being wild. Even in the midst of pleasure, he still had a teasing mind. “Who knew you could get so riled up by just a few comments? Oh…wait, no, I’ve always known that.”

            Lan Wangji’s teeth nipped gently at Wei Wuxian’s neck, who bared it for more contact. “You must be quiet.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm? Why’s that? Am I going to get you too riled up to even—”

            Lan Wangji’s hand pressed over his mouth as he thrust into him in one go. “Be quiet.”

            Wei Wuxian licked Lan Wangji’s palm with another groan as Lan Wangji began to move. When Lan Wangji moved his hand to hold his waist, Wei Wuxian gladly continued. “Oh, you’re worried…ah—worried about someone h-hearing us? Maybe you shouldn’t f-…ngh…fuck me so hard.” Wei Wuxian felt him twitch inside him and was very pleased with himself.

            Lan Wangji swallowed and slowed down. His long hair fell over his shoulders to pool on the desk. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “Hanguang-Jun?”

            Lan Wangji, “…Stop…talking.”

            Wei Wuxian, “What if I don’t? What will you do then?”

            One of Lan Wangji’s hands was on Wei Wuxian’s waist, the other curled at the nape of his neck. His eyes were closed as his nose brushed against Wei Wuxian’s. “I will stop.”

            Wei Wuxian tightened his arms and legs around him. “Think you can?”

            Lan Wangji dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. Wei Wuxian could feel his breaths against his skin, bursting out of him.

            Wei Wuxian hummed, fingers lacing through his hair. “I didn’t think so.”

            Lan Wangji breathed out a soft, “Wei Ying,” and Wei Wuxian forgot how to reply. He pulled Lan Wangji’s lips to his own with a faintly pained sound.

            After a moment, he pulled back to press his forehead to Lan Wangji’s. “Why…ah, why did I wait s-so long to do this? Should’ve…been like this…all along.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers intertwined with his as he raised his hands over his head on the desk. “Wei Ying…quiet.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded vaguely. “Mm, wouldn’t want anyone to know you ended class early for this, mm?” Lan Wangji stopped moving, and Wei Wuxian worried that meant he’d finally talked too much. “No, no, no, wait, don’t stop! I’ll shut up, I’ll shut up. The waterborne abyss really does need—”

            “Wei Ying.”

            “Right, right, quiet. I’m being quiet. I won’t make a sound. Just—”

            “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian heard the small smile in Lan Wangji’s voice this time and grinned so wide it hurt. He hugged Lan Wangji, murmuring softly into his ear, “My good Hanguang-Jun, I love you so much.” Feeling Lan Wangji’s breath grow faster along with his pace, Wei Wuxian kissed his temple, repeating, “I love you so much. I’ll be good and quiet for you. Don’t stop.”

            Lan Wangji leaned up to kiss him, his lips and tongue moving almost urgently against Wei Wuxian’s as he swallowed every noise Wei Wuxian made.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji was quiet, but honestly, Wei Wuxian never minded. Quite the contrary, him being so quiet made every sound that slipped out so much more intense for Wei Wuxian. Every low grunt, every strangled breath, every whisper of his name lit him on fire more than even the most erotic screams he had envisioned in his youth. Compared to those lurid but empty thoughts of his younger days, having mostly quiet sex with Lan Wangji was so much better.

            Mostly quiet because for whatever noise Lan Wangji didn’t make, Wei Wuxian seemed to make twice as much. He simply couldn’t help himself, but Lan Wangji didn’t seem to mind. In fact, every cry of his name seemed to spur him on; it made his grip tighter, his breaths faster, his pace firmer, his kiss deeper.

            The dangerous thing was that the quieter Lan Wangji was in bed, the louder Wei Wuxian wanted to make him out of it. Chalk it up to Wei Wuxian being a master of running wild or to the fact that his cultivation partner made him happier than he’d ever been in his life, Wei Wuxian had become even wilder of late.

            To everyone’s surprise—Wei Wuxian’s chief among them—Lan Qiren hadn’t made much of a fuss when he and Lan Wangji had returned to the Cloud Recesses. He’d expected a fit or a fight, something that would encourage both Lan Wangji and him to leave and not return, especially since Lan Xichen had been in secluded meditation after sealing Nie Mingjue and Jin Guangyao away.

            True, Lan Qiren hadn’t given Wei Wuxian any good looks, but he hadn’t openly said they couldn’t stay there either, and so Wei Wuxian had been happily spending his days at the powerful Hanguang-Jun’s side while he taught the younger generation or demonstrated practices or meditated or practiced the guqin—all those things Wei Wuxian would have thought boring in his youth; now, he couldn’t wipe the smile off his face.

            Despite the fact that they hovered in unknown territory—a stray kiss in public could get them booted out of the Cloud Recesses faster than Wei Wuxian could say “Lan Laotou”—Wei Wuxian still found his thoughts running wild when they were out of the jingshi. As if he didn’t get enough time with Lan Wangji in it, Wei Wuxian had begun to test Lan Wangji’s all-mighty resolve out of it. Something about teasing him so openly in public made blood rush to Wei Wuxian’s lower abdomen—something for which he was usually “punished” once they returned to the jingshi, but that only egged Wei Wuxian on even more.

            Today, he was especially frisky—a term he used to refer to himself simply because it amused him. But yes, he was “frisky” today. He’d wanted Lan Wangji as soon as he had woken up, and they had been very close to consummating that desire when an elder of the sect had knocked on the door. Negligent to what the man had interrupted, he had talked with Lan Wangji through the screen. This hadn’t stopped Wei Wuxian, of course; on the contrary, he had slid his hand between their bodies and brazenly stroked Lan Wangji for all of two breathless moments before Lan Wangji—his eyes rather dilated—had grasped his hand and pulled it back to safety. Nothing in his voice indicated being tested, but he hurried to agree to whatever the visitor wanted and then kissed Wei Wuxian deep enough that he couldn’t breathe before they had to get up.

            So a missed opportunity in the morning led to an extra-frisky Wei Wuxian. He’d tried to lure Lan Wangji away during lunch for a different kind of afternoon delight, but Lan Sizhui and the other juniors wanted Hanguang-Jun to help them with a particularly challenging piece of music on the guqin. If not for his love for the boys he openly considered his adopted sons, Wei Wuxian would have been annoyed. Instead, he happily agreed to join them, if for no other reason than to watch Hanguang-Jun work.

            It was after seven now, though, and Wei Wuxian was getting impatient. The heat that had been curling in his stomach had made him fluctuate between half-hard and fully hard all day. He’d thought about taking care of his problem himself, but why would he do that now that he had Lan Zhan? It was so much better to wait, even if part of him disagreed with such a sentiment.

            But still. It was getting ridiculous.

            The two were at dinner now, tragically not alone. Wei Wuxian knew Lan Wangji was too observant to miss the way he’d been looking at him all day, but in his defense, they really hadn’t had time. Even if he’d wanted to steal Wei Wuxian away for an hour or two, something had always come up.

            Now, they were surrounded by members of the Lan Sect in the nearly silent dining hall, because, like most things, noise was forbidden while eating in the Cloud Recesses.

            For some reason, the fact that they were surrounded by so many only spurred Wei Wuxian on.

            After they finished eating, Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi were talking a mile a minute about their latest escapade with Wen Ning, but Wei Wuxian couldn’t keep his thoughts on the topic. His eyes drifted to Lan Wangji’s lips as he chewed slowly, imagining them anywhere else. They drifted to his long, slender fingers, recalling all too clearly how firmly they’d held him last night—and every night, for that matter. No one would have guessed just how passionate Lan Wangji was; even Wei Wuxian hadn’t known for the longest time.

            Wei Wuxian's chopsticks pushed around the plain rice in his bowl as he swallowed at his own thoughts.   

            Lan Wangji, of course, was focused on the story, as diligent in the boys’ education as always.

            Lan Wangji didn’t talk since he was still eating, but he was clearly listening, nodding minutely. He even smiled at something Lan Sizhui said, his lips curving very slightly. Luckily, Lan Sizhui noticed and hadn’t been able to shake his own smile yet.

            Lan Jingyi, “You forgot the best part!”

            Lan Sizhui, “I did not; I was about to say what happened to the cart.”

            Lan Jingyi, “Not that part.” His smile had a somewhat teasing edge. “I mean the other thing.”

            Lan Sizhui cleared his throat, feigning ignorance in a way so like Lan Wangji that Wei Wuxian, finally distracted, grinned. “I do not know what you mean.”

            Lan Jingyi, “I mean all those girls tripping over themselves to talk to you afterwards.”

            Lan Sizhui’s ears burned red.

            Wei Wuxian perked up. “Oho! How many?”

            Lan Sizhui complained, “Wei Qianbei! Do not encourage him!”

            Lan Jingyi chuckled, “Too many to count.”

            Lan Sizhui, “This is ridiculous!!! We—I—they—”

            Lan Jingyi was having too much fun to stop now. He sighed mournfully, “It is a shame Sizhui did not pay them much mind. They were beside themselves with grief.”

            Lan Sizhui, “H-H-H-Hanguang-Jun, h-h-h-he is exaggerating!! Th-this is ridiculous! Jingyi, there were lots of people there, and they were only thanking us—all of us—for helping them!”

            Lan Jingyi added casually, “The girls were not thanking all of us.”

            Wei Wuxian gave a doleful sigh. “Ah, our little A-Yuan has grown up so fast.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes met his, something indescribably soft within them.

            Lan Sizhui huffed, at a loss for words briefly. “I-I-I-I—Wei Qianbei! You—and Jingyi!!! You, you—be quiet! Th-the point of this story was that we helped the village with the water ghosts faster than ever!”

            Lan Wangji, “Well done, Sizhui.”

            Lan Sizhui beamed and sat up straighter.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled and glanced back at Lan Wangji. It was a mistake, reminding him all over again of the heat in his stomach. While the boys began arguing back and forth again lightheartedly, Wei Wuxian’s mind began to wander. His eyes caught once more on Lan Wangji’s slender fingers, his lips, his forehead ribbon—everything he did, small or large, made it more and more difficult for Wei Wuxian to maintain his composure. His face felt entirely too warm. If Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi hadn’t been there…

            If they hadn’t been there, he might have climbed over the table between them, fallen into Lan Wangji’s lap, and kissed him until the hall was empty. Or, better yet, he might have crawled under the table, taken Lan Wangji in his mouth, and—

            No, he might have gotten into his lap and rolled against him until they both released in their—

            No, no, he wanted Lan Wangji to shove everything off the table, rip their clothes off, and take him right there, audience be damned.  

            It really was lucky the juniors were there, or Wei Wuxian might have acted on one of those impulses. He certainly liked entertaining the idea, if his pounding heart was any indication. He half-wanted everyone else in this room to see just how hard Hanguang-Jun could love him, how mindful of his needs he was, how immaculately he took care of him. At the same time, he didn’t want a single other person to hear what Lan Wangji sounded like in those intimate, tender moments. No, that was for Wei Wuxian alone. No one else deserved to see such a Lan Zhan.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart was racing, his need nearly painful now. He tried to silently communicate, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I want you so badly. Take me right here; I don’t care about the consequences.

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t help letting his foot drift to Lan Wangji’s leg. Through his boot, he could feel precious little, but Lan Wangji’s eyes lifted to his at the light contact. At first, it was an overwhelmingly tender look that made Wei Wuxian’s heart flutter, but when he saw Wei Wuxian’s expression, his gaze caught. His own pupils dilated so quickly that Wei Wuxian wanted to tear his clothes off right then. 

            It didn’t take anything else. Lan Wangji quietly bade the boys good night and stood with Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian grinned madly, grabbed Lan Wangji’s hand in front of everyone, and carelessly dragged him outside. If it wasn’t obvious before what they were going to do, it probably was now, but neither seemed to care.

            Wei Wuxian could only wait as long as it took for them to be outside of the dining hall before he turned around, lifted to his toes, and kissed Lan Wangji as hard as he could. Lan Wangji met his movements without a flicker of hesitation, one hand lifting to his cheek while the other drifted low on his back. A low whine slipped out of Wei Wuxian when his hips pressed against Lan Wangji’s thigh, his hardness all the more obvious when he instinctively rolled his hips into the friction.

            Lan Wangji broke from his lips to give him a heated look. “How long have you been like this?”

            Wei Wuxian panted honestly, “Since this morning. Wanted you to take me all day. In the classroom, in the dining hall, behind the library pavilion. Wanted you to make me scream in front of all those—”

            Lan Wangji never quite knew how to respond to Wei Wuxian’s teasing, especially with how explicit he became. He could only silence him with his lips, lifting him up as though he weighed nothing.

            Wrapping his legs around Lan Wangji’s waist and hugging his neck, Wei Wuxian leaned into the kiss fervently, rolling against Lan Wangji’s stomach with a newfound urgency.

            Lan Wangji broke breathlessly away and whispered, “Not here.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded without stopping, “Here…please…I need…Lan Zhan…take me here, I can’t wait—I’ve been like this all day, I can’t wait another minute. Please, please, please, need you, want you…”

            Lan Wangji exhaled a shaky, “Wei Ying—”

            Wei Wuxian truly was a natural at running wild. Careless of their not-so-private surroundings, he groaned, “Yes, Lan Zhan, yes, love it when you say my name like that…say it again, call me anyway you like, just a little more, I’m almost…Fuck, I’m so close already—”

            Lan Wangji’s breath burst from his lips in surprise at the statement, and his resulting kiss was beyond searing. He walked more quickly, somehow uninhibited by Wei Wuxian’s wild movements as he tried to get them home in time. His fingers were digging into Wei Wuxian’s waist, at times pulling him harder against him, at others halting his movements entirely.

            Wei Wuxian was close to crying from need, which wasn’t as rare an occurrence as it might seem. Sometimes, they liked to play this game, edging Wei Wuxian until he was a pleading mess, but he hadn’t expected today to be like this so soon. They weren’t even doing it on purpose; he supposed it was just from being like this all day that had tears pricking his eyes.

            Wei Wuxian heard a door slide closed and could smell heady sandalwood in the air, but they didn’t even make it to the bed. Lan Wangji dropped to the floor with Wei Wuxian, and then his hips bucked against Wei Wuxian’s, his own hardness coming into contact with Wei Wuxian’s finally.

            Wei Wuxian gasped, “Yes, yes, yes—Lan Zhan, always so good for me—”

            Lan Wangji was as silent as ever, only his breaths against Wei Wuxian’s neck making any sound as he kissed and nipped his way across his skin.

            Wei Wuxian gripped his back when Lan Wangji started to take their clothes off. “Don’t—I can’t wait that long—please, let me just—this is enough, please, just—ah—Lan Zhan—”

            Lan Wangji’s voice sounded deliciously breathy on a nearly silent, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s back arched as he rolled more fervently against Lan Wangji, but frustration was pooling in his stomach. He was so close but so far away, teetering on the edge but unable to quite reach the crevice. He wanted and needed it quick and rough, but the clothing rubbing against him was beginning to hurt, and he couldn’t feel the warmth of Lan Wangji’s skin.

            Wei Wuxian whined, “Never mind, never mind, I need more, Lan Zhan, please—” At the same time, he began to rapidly peel Lan Wangji’s clothes away.

            He felt himself twitching under all his clothes, so close to release that he knew if Lan Wangji so much as brushed his fingers against him, he’d finally come. Lan Wangji’s fingers shook faintly against Wei Wuxian’s waist as he rolled against him, helping him undress.

            Wei Wuxian was beginning to ramble, something he usually did right about now, “So close, Lan Zhan, please, just—t-touch me, you feel so good, always so good for me, touch me, let me co—”

            The knock at the door almost made Wei Wuxian cry.

            The way Lan Wangji’s almost frantic movements halted did make him cry. Tears ran down his temples as he felt his imminent release edge away again. His breaths were heaving, and a low, disappointed noise slipped through in a nearly whining fashion.

            Lan Wangji’s voice was as perfect and even as always, nothing to indicate how fast his heart was racing or how much his fingers were trembling. “What is it?”

            The voice outside the door didn’t sound awkward at all, meaning their activities hadn’t been obvious, much to Wei Wuxian’s chagrin. If he’d heard them going at it, at least he would’ve backed away long enough for Wei Wuxian to finish. “Hanguang-Jun, Lan Qiren has requested to see you at once.”

            Wei Wuxian threw his head back in frustration, accidently hitting the wooden floor. With an offhand “ow,” he squeezed his eyes shut.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers gently brushed against the spot he’d hit, as if in apology. To the man outside, he said, “I will be there soon.”

            Even with a door between them, Wei Wuxian could hear the telltale sound of the man saluting. “Hanguang-Jun.” The sound of his footsteps faded away again.

            Lan Wangji turned back to Wei Wuxian, kissing him as though nothing had happened. Quietly, he asked, “What do you need?”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart leapt into his throat. As dutiful and obedient as Lan Wangji had always been, Wei Wuxian had expected him to leave at once from the summoning, especially seeing as it came from his uncle. He wouldn’t have faulted him for it; in fact, he would have walked with him, hand-in-hand for as far as possible. But he hadn’t expected that Lan Wangji would prioritize him, even for something as simple as this—perhaps that was stupid, given everything. How many times had Lan Wangji made such inferences already?  

            Wei Wuxian kissed him back, fire licking its way down his spine at the love and devotion he felt. Tears pricked his eyes for an entirely different reason as, in a very cliché manner, his heart felt almost too full. He would do anything for Lan Wangji, he realized, though not for the first time; he had never loved anyone as much as this, and he never would again.

            Wei Wuxian, “Touch me, Lan Zhan, please.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips were feverish against his as he slipped a hand between them. Wei Wuxian’s back arched as he felt his tight, comfortable grip. Lan Wangji knew without fault exactly how to take Wei Wuxian apart in the least amount of time. He had learned quickly and had paid close attention to what Wei Wuxian liked.

            Within mere seconds, Wei Wuxian was at the brink again. He broke from Lan Wangji’s lips, arching his back and chasing that release. It was so close he could taste it, his length twitching and heavy in Lan Wangji’s grasp.

            Wei Wuxian’s moans had grown louder, but he couldn’t stop them. As usual, he was rambling, “L—Lan—Lan Zh-Zhan—hah, yes, just…just like—Lan—Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan—” He said his name like a broken prayer, everything in him tensed and ready.

            Lan Wangji gave the faintest groan of his own as he murmured back a breathy, “Wei Ying,” and that was all it took.

            Wei Wuxian threw his head back so hard that it hit the floor, but he didn’t even notice. He arched into Lan Wangji, hips bucking wildly. The feeling rushed through him almost violently, waves crashing over him with near-blinding force as he replayed Lan Wangji’s whisper over and over and over again in his mind. His vision went white, and a strangled cry of Lan Wangji’s name left his throat; it was only later that he processed just how loud it was. Lan Wangji didn’t stop him or try to soften the cry. Instead, his forehead dropped to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder as he worked Wei Wuxian through the feeling, his breaths bursting against Wei Wuxian’s skin.

            Blissed out, Wei Wuxian collapsed under Lan Wangji, panting like he’d run for miles. “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji offered a vaguely muffled, “Wei Ying,” and it was then that Wei Wuxian remembered Lan Wangji’s own need.

            His hand dove into Lan Wangji’s clothes like it had a mind of its own. Lan Wangji’s grip on his waist tightened when Wei Wuxian grasped him, and then, gripping him in the way he knew Lan Wangji liked, he entered a quick pace.

            Lan Wangji’s mouth found his, tongue intertwining with his effortlessly, almost lazily, as he chased his own quick release. Without time for anything more, they could only make do with this for now—and it was plenty good enough. Wei Wuxian groaned into the kiss, feeling himself harden again somehow. It must have been from being so pent up all day, he guessed. As Lan Wangji felt him harden in his fingers again, he entered into the same rhythm as before, making Wei Wuxian’s back arch off the floor once more.

            Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with a breathless cry, his chest heaving with the effort. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan—th-this is just like the inn…but better…ah, you don’t remember, but—ah—it was just like this—except, we had less clothes—but—hah—Lan Zhan, you-you were so…” He groaned, unable to finish his teasing remarks.

            Lan Wangji’s mouth was hot on Wei Wuxian’s neck, his tongue pressing down after every scrape of his teeth. His hips thrust into Wei Wuxian’s hand as he got closer and closer.

            Wei Wuxian felt his own release rushing through his veins. “That’s it, Hanguang-Jun—Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege—”

            With a shaky breath, Lan Wangji dropped his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder again. His hips gave a final, harsh thrust before he stilled, and then a strangled, “Wei Ying—!” slipped out, almost a reprimand. The sound of it tipped Wei Wuxian over the edge again with him, his own cry an echo of his previous one.

            Wei Wuxian collapsed, and Lan Wangji collapsed with him. His lips found Wei Wuxian’s once more, his breaths racing. Wei Wuxian pressed a hand to Lan Wangji’s chest, reveling—as always—at how rapidly his Hanguang-Jun’s heart was pounding. Lan Wangji lifted his hand to his cheek, fingers curling softly against his skin.

            Wei Wuxian hummed into the kiss, the sound tired and languid. “Lan Zhan…”           

            Lan Wangji managed a breathless, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian panted, “Guess…guess we should go see your uncle…”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            Neither of them moved. Smiling, Wei Wuxian played with the ends of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon. He had a feeling that whatever Lan Qiren wanted wouldn’t be simple. For now, he just wanted to enjoy this moment.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon was interlaced between their fingers. His head was buried against Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, his thrusts slow and steady.

            Wei Wuxian’s lips were parted as he panted, clinging so tightly to Lan Wangji’s fingers that he was afraid he was hurting him. “L-Lan Zhan, hah, Lan Zhan…ngh…” He arched his back, hoping for a quicker pace. He’d been on the edge for well over an hour now—he knew because of how far the moon had made it in its path—but Lan Wangji was intent on keeping it slow.

            After another breathless rendition of his name, Lan Wangji pulled his head up and found Wei Wuxian’s lips.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered into the kiss, the sound faintly pathetic and needy. Which was fitting, since that pretty much summarized how he felt. He’d already made quite a mess on his own stomach, his length so hard it nearly hurt in the best way possible. Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened at the sound, which made Wei Wuxian repeat it. Lan Wangji quickened his pace very slightly, but it was still languid compared to the way he’d fucked Wei Wuxian last night. At Wei Wuxian’s demand, it had been rough and hard, and he’d come quicker than usual. Tonight seemed to be in repayment.

            Nights in the so-called “quiet room” were anything but. Wei Wuxian never bothered to moderate his sounds, and, in the heat of those moments, Lan Wangji seemed to forget to remind him.

            Tonight wasn’t any different.

            Wei Wuxian’s head surged up as he deepened the kiss, groaning into it again. His body felt tense and on fire, the ache in his lower abdomen balancing between pain and pleasure. He needed to come, could feel it thrumming in his veins, but he needed more.

            Wei Wuxian, “L-Lan Zhan, pl-please…faster.”

            Lan Wangji hummed softly. His lips ran across Wei Wuxian’s jaw on their path to his neck. He didn’t change his pace; if anything, he seemed to move even slower. Wei Wuxian felt everything—every breath, every touch, every brush of Lan Wangji’s skin against his own—with almost painful clarity; it only intensified his need even more. Their hands were clasped tight against the bed over Wei Wuxian’s head, the forehead ribbon damp between their palms. His legs were like a belt around Lan Wangji’s waist, but despite his best efforts trying to pull him harder, faster, Lan Wangji’s thrusts remained even and deliberate.

            Wei Wuxian tightened his fingers around Lan Wangji’s even more. “Please, please, please, Lan Zhan…Lan Zhan, you—ngh—more…”

            Lan Wangji angled his body down a little until Wei Wuxian’s length was embraced between their stomachs.

            A surprised moan was pulled from him at the sudden friction. “Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji hummed again, kissing languidly down Wei Wuxian’s neck. His thumbs swept across backs of Wei Wuxian’s hands. His touch was so reverent that it brought genuine to tears to Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

            He’d pictured his future lovers more than once as a youth, but never had he anticipated he’d be worshipped the way he was now.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart was over-full, pounding at three times the speed of Lan Wangji’s pace. He cried faintly, “Lan Zhan…”

            It was so full of emotion that Lan Wangji picked his head up to look at him. His light-colored eyes were so dilated that his irises could barely be seen in the dark, but his adoring gaze was impossible to miss. He leaned down, whispering a soft, “Wei Ying,” before he kissed him again.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t know how much longer they stayed like that, slowly reveling in the pleasure rushing across their skin and thrumming in their veins.

            Tears were running down Wei Wuxian’s temples again, but he’d long since grown used to the occurrence when he was in bed with Lan Wangji. Sometimes it was the intensity of the pleasure, sometimes it was the intensity of the emotions. They weighed thick in the air, as prominent in the jingshi as the scent of sandalwood.

            Sweat dripped off Lan Wangji’s body to Wei Wuxian’s. His hair fell around them both, sticking to them. Wei Wuxian’s was tied back as usual, but long and short strands alike had been pulled free, clinging messily to his face and neck. Lan Wangji’s breaths, once even and controlled, had begun to pick up as he chose a minimally quicker pace.

            Wei Wuxian’s own skin was slick, his stomach even more so for the evidence of his desire. He was beginning to feel downright desperate. His limbs were shaking, his thighs aching from the strain of keeping them around Lan Wangji’s waist. “Lan Zhan, please—”

            Lan Wangji gave a soft sound at the raw, urgent need in Wei Wuxian’s cry. His following thrust was hard.

            Wei Wuxian yelped in pleasure, arching his back. “Yes! Yes, please, L-Lan Zhan, fuck me—fuck me hard and—”

            Lan Wangji silenced him with a deep kiss, his tongue brushing against Wei Wuxian’s. His pace quickened and grew harder, so hard that Wei Wuxian jolted with every thrust.

            He loved it. He moaned wantonly into Lan Wangji’s mouth—it was far too loud for such a late hour, but neither of them was in a state of mind to notice or care. Wei Wuxian knew by now the effect such noises had on Lan Wangji, and, after another moment of breathless cries, he was rewarded.

            Lan Wangji released one of Wei Wuxian’s hands to find his length.

            As soon as he wrapped his fingers around him, Wei Wuxian gave another inelegant cry. He squeezed his eyes shut and arched up so high his back hurt, thrusting greedily into Lan Wangji’s fingers. Inside him, he felt Lan Wangji’s own length twitch.

            Lan Wangji released a stuttered breath, his forehead dropping to Wei Wuxian’s sweat-slicked shoulder. His breaths burst just as fast across Wei Wuxian’s skin, his grip growing tighter.

            Wei Wuxian cried, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan,” over and over again, as he always did, his voice hitching and wavering with every deep thrust. Each one hit that spot inside him that made him weak, the spot he hadn’t even known existed before Lan Wangji. Tears leaked from his eyes unnoticed, his lips parted in a wide cry. “H-harder, yes, Lan Zhan, fuck—ngh—ah…hah…hah…hah…Lan—L-Lan—Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji gave a breathless, almost strangled, “Wei Ying—!”

            And that was all it took.

           Wei Wuxian’s moan was yanked from him as pleasure exploded within his body. He arched up, rolling his head back as Lan Wangji quickened his pace. His vision flashed white, then black as he felt his eyebrows draw up. Even more, he felt Lan Wangji’s heated gaze on him, and that made his head feel even dizzier. After hours of being on edge, Wei Wuxian shook almost violently with the pleasure, humping into Lan Wangji’s fist with another broken moan. “Ngh! Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji grunted low and quiet and released his other hand. He grabbed Wei Wuxian’s waist firmly and thrust twice more with urgency before he stilled. A low, long, breathless, “Wei Ying—!” broke from his lips. That, combined with the soft groan he gave after, threatened to make Wei Wuxian come again, if that were possible.

            Wei Wuxian rolled his hips, prolonging their pleasure as long as he could, and then he collapsed. He panted out a choked “Lan Zhan…” as his limbs continued to shake in the aftermath.

            Lan Wangji lifted to kiss him deeply, raising a hand to his cheek. His fingers curled softly against his skin with another quiet sound. For a long, weightless moment, they lay there, tongues and breaths entangled as their hearts struggled to slow, and then Lan Wangji pulled away.

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t even manage to open his eyes. Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon was still laced between his fingers, and, shakily, he clasped it tighter. Exhaustion fell over him like a curtain. Distantly, he felt Lan Wangji’s gentle touch—a cool cloth running across his skin, a quiet murmur of his name. He hummed softly, angling his head in Lan Wangji’s direction, but he still couldn’t open his eyes.

            When Lan Wangji finally returned to bed and pulled a blanket over them, Wei Wuxian was more than half asleep. He was just barely awake enough to feel Lan Wangji turn them on their sides. He kissed Wei Wuxian’s neck, curling against him.

            Wei Wuxian managed a bleary, muddled, “Mm…every day…”

            He was just awake enough to feel Lan Wangji’s soft smile against his skin.

            Those three words were indeed difficult to say, even though they felt them strongly. In Wei Wuxian’s case, they just didn’t seem enough. They felt mundane, overused—I love this, I love that. With someone like Lan Wangji, who had silently sacrificed so much, felt so much, yearned for so long…mundanity just wouldn’t do.

            So, after the Guanyin Temple, they had come to informally use the term “every day” for what they meant. It was everything, all wrapped into one, everything they had said to each other once before—love you, want you, need you, only you, always.

            Lan Wangji tightened his hold around Wei Wuxian. When he returned softly, “Every day,” the rare emotion in his voice couldn’t be hidden at all.

Chapter Text

The forest was bustling with activity. Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi, and Ouyang Zizhen were animatedly talking over the fire. Jin Ling burst in every few words, mostly to mock something someone—usually Lan Jingyi—had said. Lan Jingyi could take it, though, and offered his own quick retorts without taking anything to heart. Lan Sizhui seemed to be very amused watching them, his bright eyes even brighter as they bounced between the bickering boys. Ouyang Zizhen didn’t talk much, but he laughed quite a lot at the banter.

            On the outskirts of their impromptu night-hunting camp, Wen Ning was chopping firewood noisily. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji were sitting at the fire with the others, Wei Wuxian resting against Lan Wangji, back to chest. He’d originally sat there to see how Hanguang-Jun might respond to such a public display of affection. To his mild surprise and immense delight, Lan Wangji had responded only by brushing his fingers gently down the side of Wei Wuxian’s arm. And why would Wei Wuxian move after that?        

            Dinner was light and quickly eaten, and as the hour grew late, the boys began to get tired. In pairs, the party slowly dispersed. Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi went first, then Ouyang Zizhen and Wen Ning—who left to patrol the area—and then it was just Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji, and Jin Ling at the campfire.

            Jin Ling seemed to think it was an uncomfortable silence. He poked at the fire with a long stick, clearing his throat occasionally.

            Wei Wuxian suspected his discomfort had something to do with the way he was now more or less embraced by Lan Wangji, but it wasn’t like he was going to sit up for anything.

            Suddenly, Jin Ling cleared his throat again. He looked awkwardly in Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji’s direction, not quite meeting their eyes.

            Wei Wuxian thought it was very funny. “Something on your mind, dear?”

            Jin Ling scowled and tossed his stick into the fire, causing a massive swoosh of sparks. “You’re so annoying! Can’t you mind your own business??”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “You’re the one who keeps looking over here like you want to say something. And I’m still your senior, Jin Ling, not to mention you’re in the presence of a renowned cultivator. Mind your manners.”

            Jin Ling had never had someone tell him to mind his manners before, apart from Jiang Cheng, who’d always added, “or I’ll break your legs.” He scoffed, embarrassed by the slight reprimand. When he got embarrassed, he had the habit of lashing back defensively. In a harsh tone, he demanded, “Oh, like you’re any better? H-how could you be anyone’s senior in anything more than age with the way you act?? You’re always lazing around, never doing any work—earlier, you even made me and Sizhui do all the hunting while you just sat here! And you’re always joking around all the time and, and…”

            Lan Wangji knew Wei Wuxian better than anyone. He especially knew how much Jin Ling’s situation hurt and concerned Wei Wuxian. In the privacy of the jingshi, he had more than once confided in Lan Wangji, in rambling fashion, things he couldn’t say to anyone else. And more than once, despite Wei Wuxian’s superficially casual attitude, he had broken from his dreams with shouts or tears in the dead of night.

            So now, hearing the boy be so rough with Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji frowned.

            Wei Wuxian heard him part his lips and take a breath to speak. He caught Lan Wangji’s fingers vaguely, making the action seem casual enough to be misinterpreted.

            But Lan Wangji understood what he meant. He sighed quietly, withheld his comment, and interlaced their fingers, offering quiet support.

            This all happened very quickly, and Wei Wuxian continued without missing a beat, “Joking around is something you should learn. You keep things too close to your heart as it is. You’re always so gloomy and sarcastic, just like your uncle. Are you gonna threaten to break my legs while you’re at it?”

            Jin Ling fumed, “You—!!” But this wasn’t how he wanted the conversation to go at all. He huffed and looked away, but he didn’t leave. He kicked at another stick, sending it hurtling into the fire.

            Wei Wuxian, “Aiyo, are you trying to light me on fire now? Quit sending up those sparks. You’re very rude for a boy your age, you know. I’ll have to do some tinkering with you.”

            Jin Ling scoffed, “Hah! You?!” But he glanced up at Wei Wuxian, something cautious in his expression. Does this mean he wants to spend more time with me…? He dismissed that hope swiftly, annoyed with himself. “Pff, what can you teach me? How to laze around? How to get others to do your work for you?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, seeming tired as he lounged against Hanguang-Jun. “If others can do a better job than me, why should I have to do it? And if Hanguang-Jun wants to carry me, why should I walk?” His intention was to make the younger blush and look away, and it worked. He smiled, “You’d be surprised what I could teach you. I have a whole list of lessons just for you. Wanna know the first one? I’ve called it ‘How not to be a brat.’”

            Jin Ling huffed, “You—!!”

            Wei Wuxian, “If we don’t do something about that attitude of yours, what girl’s gonna want to marry you?”

            Jin Ling turned bright red, almost enough to match the vermillion mark on his forehead. He exclaimed, “You’re so annoying!! Wh-who wants to talk about that?! Besides, my uncle’s not even married yet. It’s not like I have to be in a rush.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed thoughtfully. “True, Jiang Cheng is quite a role model in this area.”

            Jin Ling scowled at Wei Wuxian again. “I’m gonna tell him you said that.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “Do. Not like he can hate me any more than he already does.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers somehow began softer on his.

            Jin Ling looked down and away. “My uncle doesn’t hate you. He just…”

            He didn’t finish, and Wei Wuxian didn’t press him. It was a complicated issue. It couldn’t be explained so easily.

            Wei Wuxian knew there was something else on Jin Ling’s mind, but Jin Ling was being hesitant. After a long while of waiting, he yawned, “Well, I’m beat. Lan Zhan—”

            Jin Ling panicked. “Wait!”

            Wei Wuxian raised an eyebrow. “Mhm?”

            Jin Ling knew this was the only time he could ask. He seldom had an excuse to go see Wei Wuxian, and even if he could leave either Lanling or Lotus Pier without his uncle noticing, he didn’t always know for sure if Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji would even be in the Cloud Recesses. It was pure chance that the juniors had all run into Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji on the road, and if not for Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi insisting they stay the night in camp with them, he wouldn’t have had this opportunity at all. Not only that, but the others had also already gone to bed, and Wen Ning was nowhere around—a rarity. True, Hanguang-Jun was still there, and Jin Ling was somewhat embarrassed to have the conversation in front of him, but…it was still the best, and the only, time.

            He could only do it when no one else was around to tease him or give him sappy eyes or any such nonsense.

            Taking a breath, he finally managed to mumble, “I…I wanted to ask you something.”

            Wei Wuxian was unsurprised. “Mhm, I know. What is it?”

            Jin Ling swallowed, looking down at the fire. “I…I…” He sighed, and several moments passed in silence.

            Wei Wuxian pretended to call his bluff again. “If it’s nothing, then I’m gonna go to—”

            Red-faced, Jin Ling suddenly shouted, “I wanted to ask you about my mother!”

            Wei Wuxian froze against Lan Wangji.

            Jin Ling continued in a rush, “I-I don’t really have anyone else to ask, and I know you probably don’t want to talk about it, but Jiujiu doesn’t, either, and everything I’ve heard came from other people, and they all said…they all said my parents didn’t love me and left me—which isn’t even the point! I just—you’re the only one I can ask!!!”

            Lan Wangji felt Wei Wuxian’s reaction and held him tighter.

            Wei Wuxian spoke quietly, “Jiang Cheng never…told you anything?”

            Jin Ling shrugged vaguely, “Just a thing here or there…nothing much. I know you don’t want to talk about—”

            Wei Wuxian’s voice was especially soft. “Jin Ling, I would love to talk about your mother.”

            Jin Ling looked up with owlish eyes. “You…you would?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, but it was different than any smile Jin Ling had seen him give. “What would you like to know?”

            Jin Ling had wondered so many things for so long. He didn’t even know where to begin. “What…what was she like?”

            It took Wei Wuxian a moment to ensure his voice would come out steady. Lan Wangji’s hand in his helped. He began slowly, “Your mother was without a doubt the sweetest person I’ve ever known.”

            Jin Ling stared at him. “Really?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Yes.” He leaned back against Lan Wangji again, welcoming his embrace. Jin Ling still didn’t look away. “Your mom didn’t talk very much; she preferred to listen. She was quiet a lot of the time. But when she laughed or smiled…” He sighed. “You look a bit like her when you smile, if you ever smile, that is.” 

            Jin Ling’s eyes seemed to redden. “I do?”

            Wei Wuxian realized his fingers were shaking faintly when Lan Wangji breathed his name. He continued steadily, “You do. She…I know she loved you—very much.” His eyes felt hot, but he pressed on. “Don’t listen to what those people say. She didn’t leave you, not on purpose. She’d be very proud of you, I think, of how you’ve grown.” He inhaled through his nose, laughing as he wiped his eyes with his sleeve. “Even though you’re a brat sometimes.”

            Jin Ling’s tears were left forgotten. He came closer without realizing it. “T-tell me more.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. “Hm, your mom’s soup was always the most popular in Lotus Pier. There used to be a lot more vendors on the pier at night when we were kids, and they served some of the best foods in Yunmeng, but whenever we could, Jiang Cheng and I would eat her soup every time.”

            Jin Ling, “What kind of soup did she make?”

            Wei Wuxian blinked. “Your…uncle never…made it for you?”

            Jin Ling shook his head. “Jiujiu doesn’t cook.”

            “Lotus r—” Wei Wuxian’s voice failed. He cleared his throat and pretended he needed water. He held up a finger, drinking briefly.

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian leaned against him again and squeezed his fingers. “Lotus root and pork ribs—it’s the best thing in the world. Hanguang-Jun can make it for you later; if I make it, I’ll make it too spicy.”

            Jin Ling cocked his head. “Hanguang-Jun…knows how to make it?”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t answer that, instead continuing, “Your mom made it for me and Jiang Cheng all the time. She liked to cook. She didn’t have to, of course, but she liked to.” He laughed, “The first time she made it for me, she was barely tall enough to reach the stove.”

            Jin Ling smiled faintly. “How old was she?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, too. “Hm…around twelve, I think. Jiang Cheng and I had gotten into a bit of a fight, and, one thing led to the next, we both ended up a little worse for the wear. She made us the soup after we made up. It was the first time I’d stayed up so late and had so much fun. It was probably only just after ten at night, but it felt like three in the morning to us. We’d all agreed to watch the sunrise, but, of course, we fell asleep before then. When your grandfather found us, we were all in a pile on the floor, unconscious.” Jiang-shushu had smiled, “A-Ying, A-Cheng, A-Li, what are we going to do with you three?”

            Jin Ling laughed, edging a little closer. “What else?”

            Wei Wuxian hummed thoughtfully, tapping his chin. “I remember this one time, I got really, really sick. I think I was eleven or so. Jiang Cheng and I had been playing in the lake for too long in the cold; somehow, he didn’t get sick, but I did. Anyway, I was pretty sure I was gonna die—”

            Jin Ling surprised him with a laugh, edging closer. He kicked a fire log without realizing, and sparks whooshed into the air again.

            Wei Wuxian continued, “—and so, I kept asking her, ‘Shijie, Shijie, when I come back as a ghost, do you think I can still eat your soup? What if I can’t?!’ She had a good laugh at that and said—” He suddenly stopped. He hadn’t really thought about where he was going until he was there.

            Jin Ling pressed quietly, “What’d she say?”

            Wei Wuxian pressed his fingers into his eyes.

            Lan Wangji, “It is late. Jin Ling—”

            Wei Wuxian waved his hand. “No, no, just had something in my eye—I told you to stop kicking those sparks up, look what you did, Jin Ling. Are you trying to blind me? Anyway, she said, ‘I’ll always make soup for you.’ I said something like, ‘even when I’m a ghost?’ She just laughed and said, ‘Mhm, even when I’m a ghost, too.’ She never questioned me or Jiang Cheng with our silly logic. We’d often play bizarre games. I remember another time when Jiang Cheng and I were pretending to be water ghouls in the lake; she came over and saw us caked in fake-blood. At first, she laughed, and then she asked us if we’d seen her little brothers, that dinner was almost ready. Sounds silly, maybe, but she always played with us.”

            Jin Ling had barely blinked. “What…what else?”

            Lan Wangji, “Jin Ling—”

            Jin Ling knew he was pressing too hard; he could also see how red Wei Wuxian's eyes were, but his heart was pounding, and he couldn't stop now. “Please, t-tell me something else.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. “I said before that your mom was really quiet most of the time, but that didn’t mean she was timid. When she needed to be, she was very, very brave. You have some of her bravery, too.”

            Jin Ling whispered, “Really?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Really. Whenever dogs came to chase me, if Jiang Cheng wasn’t around, she’d stand between us and scold the dog, tell it to go away. Didn’t matter how big or scary it was, she got between us. Surprisingly, the dogs always listened to her. When she loved, it was fiercely and unconditionally. She never tolerated anyone badmouthing her family. One time at Lotus—” And so I hope Jin Zixun Gongzi will apologize to Wei Wuxian of the Yunmeng Jiang Sect!

            Jin Ling’s eyes widened faintly at the look in Wei Wuxian’s. “W-what’s—”

            Lan Wangji said firmly, “Jin Ling, go rest. It is late.”

            Jin Ling’s gaze finally flickered away to Lan Wangji’s. “O-oh.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Lan Zhan, it’s fine, it’s fine. I thought I heard something in the woods over there, but I think it’s Wen Ning patrolling. What else do you want to know, Jin Ling?”

            Jin Ling swallowed, “H-how did she and my dad meet?” The question slipped out before he could catch it; he didn’t even process how complicated of a question it was to ask. But with his own emotions already in such disarray, he couldn’t think clearly.

            Wei Wuxian thought, How could Jiang Cheng have told him so little? He hesitated briefly. “Both of their mothers came from sects that were friendly with each other. They were longtime friends and so your mom and Jin Zixuan’s marriage was more or less prearranged for them.”

            Jin Ling, “Oh…”

           Wei Wuxian, “But they really did love each other.” Eventually. For a little while. “Your dad even confessed to her in front of a whole crowd of people.”

            Jin Ling laughed, “He did?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mhm. He got so embarrassed that he ran away, too.”

            Jin Ling laughed warmly again, “He did?!” He’d always heard his father was an exceptional fighter, a beacon of strength; he’d never expected a story like that.

            Wei Wuxian’s laugh sounded a little high, “Yeah.”

            Jin Ling made an effort not to think about anything that happened after. He leaned forward and said, “Tell me something else about my mom.”

            Wei Wuxian pressed into the center of his chest and laughed, “Aiyo…what else…hm…”

            Jin Ling, “Wh-what…what did she look like…exactly?”

            Wei Wuxian stared at him for a long moment. “You…” He swallowed. Jiang Cheng, you… “Give me your ink, brush, and paper. I know you have some, come, come, come.”

            Jin Ling was so eager he nearly dropped the ink.

            Lan Wangji whispered softly, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, Lan Zhan, would you mind holding this for me?”

            Lan Wangji gave him a look he chose not to read. Slowly, he held the paper.

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, perfect. Hold still…” His brush hesitated over the page. For a long, terrifying moment, he was afraid to search his memories, afraid that the last time he saw her would be the only memory he had of her face. Instead, what rushed to him first was the image of her sitting at his bedside, laughing at something he said.

            Jin Ling was leaning over his shoulder.      

            Wei Wuxian seemed to have trouble breathing as he outlined the eyes first. The brush shook, and he smudged one of them. “Ah.” He flexed his fingers. “More paper, Jin Ling?” He started over, calming himself with deep breaths. “I really am gonna have a word with your uncle next time I see him. Jin Ling, back up a step, I can’t draw with you over my shoulder like that.” Slowly, he began again.

            The eyes came in first, then the nose. He drew her smiling. Despite how poor his memory was, he remembered her face clearly. For that, he was grateful. She took form slowly. Occasionally, his eyes grew too hot to see, and so he took a water break and told Jin Ling to back up again. By the time he was finished, the pain in his chest had blossomed into an ache.

            Wei Wuxian whispered faintly, “Shijie…” without realizing it and then he cleared his throat and took the paper from Lan Wangji. “Here, for you.”

            Jin Ling took it with both hands, staring at the portrait. His eyes filled, but he didn’t bother trying to hide it. “She’s…she’s so pretty. She really looked like this?”

            Wei Wuxian’s “Mhm” came out a little high. He cleared his throat.

            Jin Ling looked up with glistening eyes. Even his nose dripped. “Thank you…”

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head, eyebrows drawing together. He pressed into his chest harder. “Kid, don’t cry. Mo Xuanyu’s body has sympathetic tear ducts.”

            Jin Ling wiped his face. “I’m not crying. I just…” But he didn’t know how to finish.

            Lan Wangji said a final time, “Jin Ling, go rest.”

            Jin Ling nodded quickly, jumping up, tears still fresh in his eyes. “I-I—yes, Hanguang-Jun. S-sorry…I…th-thank you.”

            Wei Wuxian saw the hesitation in his expression. “If you ever want to know something about your mom, you can ask me, alright? This wasn’t a one-time thing.”

            Jin Ling, “Really?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Really.”

            He saluted both of them in a rare streak of sincerity. “Thank you…”

            Wei Wuxian forced a laugh. “Oho, so formal and polite.” He mimed a salute back. “Jin Zongzhu, good night.”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes and wiped his nose with his sleeve. He held the portrait tenderly. “You’re so annoying…g-good night…”

            Wei Wuxian waited until he was gone and then pressed the heels of his hands into his eyes. With a long sigh, he leaned back against Lan Wangji. “I want a drink.”

            Lan Wangji slowly wrapped his arms around Wei Wuxian, hugging him tightly.

            It helped. Wei Wuxian let his head fall back on Lan Wangji’s shoulder. “Jiang Cheng, you brat. I’m gonna beat you up when I see you next…” Tears slid silently down his temples, and he closed his eyes.

            Lan Wangji didn’t say anything, but he didn’t need to, either.

            Wei Wuxian knew better than anyone, there wasn’t anything he or anyone else could say to make it hurt less. It was what it was. He continued to rub at the center of his chest, as if to break up the feeling by force. “Ugh…I want a drink…” But they didn’t have any alcohol. He shook his head. “I’m tired. Can I rest my eyes for a bit, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji nodded softly against him. “I will be right here.”

            Wei Wuxian turned a little, curling closer to Lan Wangji. He closed his eyes, frowning against the deep ache. He wanted to think of something else, but his mind refused to switch gears. “Lan Zhan…can you…sing for me?”

            Lan Wangji’s arms tightened. Softly, he hummed the delicate melody to the song he had written for Wei Wuxian all those years ago.

            Bit by bit, Wei Wuxian’s body relaxed. His breathing evened out, and the pain in his chest faded. Clinging to Lan Wangji, he managed to sleep.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian’s wrists were beginning to hurt. They were tied tight together with a long forehead ribbon, his arms thrown around Lan Wangji’s neck. If his wrists hurt, his knees hurt even more from the position he was in, but he couldn’t care less about that right now. Lan Wangji’s hands were tight on his waist, guiding his rolls forcefully as Wei Wuxian knelt over him. Wei Wuxian’s forehead was pressed to his, his eyebrows pulled tight together in pleasure.

            Outside, snow was falling, blanketing the ground, but inside the jingshi, neither noticed how cold the night had grown.

            A low moan suddenly broke through Wei Wuxian's parted lips, and he threw his head back. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan—ngh—Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji kissed and nipped at Wei Wuxian’s exposed neck, grunting softly. He was somehow able to manage powerful thrusts even from such a position—Wei Wuxian had originally chosen it to exact some kind of dominance over their evening, but he should have known better. Whenever they got going like this, he forgot how to do anything but react. Lan Wangji always took over without fault until Wei Wuxian could barely think straight.

            Wei Wuxian deliberately contracted his muscles around Lan Wangji, which earned him a delicious sounding “Wei Ying—!”

            Every time Lan Wangji said his name like that, it made Wei Wuxian unravel. Between them, he felt himself give a violent twitch, already far too close to the edge for comfort. Half of him wanted to come quickly, the other half wanted to savor the pleasure coursing through his veins. Another broken sound slipped from him, and Lan Wangji offered a quieter, lower one in return.

            Wei Wuxian whined, “Ngh, s-so good—always so good for me, Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege, Hanguang-Jun!” The “Jun” was unexpectedly torn from him in a hoarse shout when Lan Wangji’s hips bucked up sharply.

            Lan Wangji’s answering sound made Wei Wuxian tremble. “B-be quieter…”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled breathlessly at the rare stutter. He panted, “Why? You don’t want everyone t-to—ngh—to hear how hard you fuck me? How good you feel? How—”

            Lan Wangji cut him off with a strangled sounding, “Wei Ying,” that might have been a reprimand if his following kiss hadn’t been so fervent. His tongue brushed against Wei Wuxian’s as he swallowed the other’s choked moans.

            Suddenly, he couldn’t take it anymore. Wei Wuxian had been wondering how long it would take for Lan Wangji to change their position. He wrapped an arm around his waist and rolled them over. His following thrust was so hard that Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with another hoarse cry.

            Wei Wuxian nearly shouted, “L-Lan Zhan!” Even he knew it was too loud for such a late hour—or for any hour; it was the Cloud Recesses, after all—but he couldn’t rein it in, not if Lan Wangji was going to fuck him so hard.

            Lan Wangji’s responding sound was low and deep, but since he rarely made sounds like that, it only spurred Wei Wuxian on.

            He rolled his hips up, meeting Lan Wangji’s thrusts eagerly. The forehead ribbon around his wrists was damp from their combined sweat now, and it got a little tangled in Lan Wangji’s hair as Wei Wuxian writhed, but neither seemed to notice at the moment. Instead, Wei Wuxian lamented, “Why…why, why, why did I wait so long to do this with you?! You could’ve fucked me like this back when we were—”

            Lan Wangji’s grip was nearly painful on his waist. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed at the breathless warning. He leaned closer to Lan Wangji’s ear to whisper, “I know you like it when I talk like that, even if you don’t want to admit it. You think I can’t feel the way you twitch inside me?”

            Lan Wangji’s earlobe darkened as he dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. He pulled Wei Wuxian’s thigh higher on his waist, answering his teasing with a harder pace.

            The next thrust made Wei Wuxian cry out. His mind went blank, and for a moment, he forgot how to tease Lan Wangji. “L-L-Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, w-wait, s-stop!!”

            Lan Wangji immediately froze. He pulled his head up to search Wei Wuxian’s eyes worriedly. “Did I hurt you?”

            Wei Wuxian managed a strangled laugh. “No, no, no.” He hugged Lan Wangji tightly, moving to his ear once more. He panted in the lowest voice he could manage, “My good Hanguang-Jun, I just didn’t want to come too soon.”

            Lan Wangji swallowed at the brazen statement, his earlobe darkening once more.

            But Wei Wuxian felt the way he reacted to his words, heard the way his breath caught. He gave a low, soft sound, contracting his muscles around Lan Wangji again.

            Lan Wangji’s hand pressed against the bed as he held still, his breaths stuttering.

            Wei Wuxian really did need a moment, but why shouldn’t he multitask? Leaning into Lan Wangji’s ear, he whispered the dirtiest things he could think of. Lan Wangji managed to deal with it alright at first, but each additional sentence made his arm shake faintly, made his breaths grow heavier, made his hips shift very, very faintly.

            Wei Wuxian was beyond delighted. Rarely did he have an opportunity to play with Lan Wangji like this. Usually, he tried to do it while he was getting pommeled by Lan Wangji, when he could barely think straight. But Lan Wangji was being good, waiting for him to catch his breath.

            When Wei Wuxian felt satisfied with his work, he pulled his head back. Immediately, his breath caught. Lan Wangji’s eyes met his, appearing almost drunk with need. His lips were parted, his eyelids falling heavily. His pupils were so dilated that Wei Wuxian could barely see the sliver of his light irises. His skin appeared to be flushed, his breaths racing.

            Wei Wuxian moaned at such a sight.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes took him in drunkenly. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned as he panted, “Alright, Hanguang-Jun, I’m ready. F—” He meant to say Fuck me properly just to tease Lan Wangji again, but as soon as the words were out, Lan Wangji was capturing his lips in the deepest of kisses. He groaned against Wei Wuxian’s mouth and chose a brutal pace, thrusting into Wei Wuxian harder than before.

            Wei Wuxian cried out as tears sprang to his eyes. He threw his head back, clinging to Lan Wangji’s neck with his tied wrists. He squeezed his eyes shut in pleasure, lips parting to release panting whines and broken moans.

            Suddenly, Lan Wangji wrapped an arm around Wei Wuxian’s waist. He pulled Wei Wuxian’s arms over his head and sat up. He positioned himself better, kneeling on the bed and drawing Wei Wuxian’s body up to meet his.

            The new position pulled sounds out of Wei Wuxian he didn’t even truly know he was capable of making. His toes curled, barely touching the blanket beneath them as Lan Wangji held his waist up. His tied wrists rested on his stomach now, the forehead ribbon likely getting wet from the mess he’d made on his abdomen, but he didn’t have the mind to think about such things. He reached up after a moment to grip the bedframe over his head, arching into Lan Wangji’s touch.

            Lan Wangji’s breaths had grown deliciously loud, his pace slowing a little to accommodate the new angle. “Wei Ying—”

            Wei Wuxian cried out at the sound of his name; never had he known someone could breathe his name in such a way. He’d never heard Lan Wangji utter a single dirty phrase or desire—more a man of action than talk—but the way he always said his name in these moments seemed to say it all, everything he needed, everything he wanted. It sounded desperate and urgent but at the same time loving and adoring. Emotional and heated at the same time.

            Without warning, Lan Wangji’s fingers wrapped around Wei Wuxian, and then Wei Wuxian was arching off the bed, madly thrusting into his fist.

            Wei Wuxian moaned brokenly, gripping the bedframe so hard it hurt, “L-L-Lan Zhan—w-wait, I-I’m—”

            Lan Wangji grunted softly, stroking him without fault. He didn’t reply, but he didn’t slow down either.

            Wei Wuxian realized that mean Lan Wangji was close, too, and his stomach tensed. As if on cue, heat rushed up Wei Wuxian’s body. His vision flashed white, his expression contorting with pleasure. With a final thrust, he spilled over Lan Wangji’s fingers, biting out a hoarse cry. He felt Lan Wangji’s heated gaze on him, and that only made it more intense. 

            Lan Wangji managed another thrust before he stilled. A long, breathless, “Wei Ying—!” broke from his lips as he curled forward into Wei Wuxian.

            If Wei Wuxian hadn’t already come, that would’ve done it for sure. As it was, it made him moan and thrust weakly into Lan Wangji’s fist, chasing the remnants of the feeling.

            Wei Wuxian, “Ngh—hah—L-Lan Zhan—”

            Lan Wangji slowly lowered his body. He fell against him, as though tired, and his mouth found Wei Wuxian’s. His kiss was fervent and slow, his breaths bursting against Wei Wuxian’s as their tongues became entangled. Wei Wuxian’s hands were numb. He let them fall limply over his head, moaning into the kiss. For a long moment, neither of them moved. Wei Wuxian didn’t know since when, but Lan Wangji’s fingers had risen to one of his hands, interlacing with his own. He squeezed them numbly, struggling to catch his breath but refusing to part from Lan Wangji.

            Perhaps hearing how he noisily panted, clearly in dire need of air, Lan Wangji pulled from his lips, instead kissing down Wei Wuxian’s jaw to his neck.

            Freed, Wei Wuxian gave a final, low sound. Gasping for air, he managed to joke weakly, “I…I think…you broke…me…”

            Softly, almost silently, Lan Wangji chuckled against Wei Wuxian’s skin, pressing his tongue down with his kisses.

            Wei Wuxian was delighted by the sound. “Ngh, Lan Zhan…my good Hanguang-Jun…”

            Lan Wangji lifted his head to look up at him. His gaze was adoringly soft, so much so that Wei Wuxian’s heart fluttered. Just before he kissed him again, he breathed an even softer, “Wei Ying…” that was more of a confession than those three words could ever be.

Chapter Text

Lan Sizhui couldn’t sleep. Lan Jingyi’s quiet snores filled their shared room as Lan Sizhui stared at the ceiling. It wasn’t the noise that had woken him; he was well used to how loud Lan Jingyi was when he slept. No, it was a dream that kept him awake in the middle of the night.

            To call it a dream wasn’t entirely accurate; Lan Sizhui was certain it was a memory. It had been too vivid, too real. His heart wanted to reject that notion. He didn’t want it to be real.

            He sat up. There was a small window right by his bed. It looked out over a tidy little garden outside the juniors’ room. The path from the Library Pavilion to the seniors’ residences was just beyond it, visible through the foliage. At this time of year, the garden was brimming with blossoms. The flowers fit with the Lan Sect’s theme of purity. They were white enough to be mistaken for snow and well cared for. Not a single weed or drooping bud could be seen. Lan Sizhui had always liked this view; now, however, the blooms inexplicably made him sadder.

            In the past, he’d never remembered anything from before the age of four or five. But ever since he had seen Chenqing and realized the truth of his past, little pieces of memory had begun to resurface. He had begun to remember what it was like at the Burial Mounds, if a little vaguely. He had a fuzzy image of playing with a man in dark robes whose smile lit up his face—Wei Wuxian, of course. He remembered, to his chagrin, biting and chewing on a black flute with red tassels, now that Wei Wuxian had teased him about it. He even remembered clinging Wei Wuxian’s leg as he walked from place to place, unwilling to let go. 

            But those were just slivers, fuzzy at best.

            Most of what he remembered from his childhood was being in Hanguang-Jun’s care. He remembered playing with snow-white rabbits, of course, and listening to Hanguang-Jun play the guqin. He remembered the day Lan Wangji had begun to teach him to play, how patient he had been, how instructive. 

            But in his sleep, he had remembered something new. As he looked out the window absently, the memory came to him again unbidden.

            He had been very fevered, not entirely lucid, and he had been just a baby in the memory—no more than three, he suspected. That he remembered it at all in such detail surprised him.

            Though he was young and sick, he was somewhat aware of what was going on around him. A cool cloth was being pressed against his forehead as an even cooler voice murmured, “Shh, child, it is alright.”

            A-Yuan was sick and uncomfortable. Everything hurt; everything felt hot. He was scared and confused, and in such times, he always wanted those close to him. He cried in a thick, creamy voice, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege…”

            The cloth on his forehead froze, and he opened his eyes to see a white-robed man. He looked so much like Rich-gege that A-Yuan was even more confused. “Xian-gege, I want Xian-gege—”

            A pair of soft, dark eyes met his. The man’s expression grew quite complicated. He looked to the other side of the room when a door quietly slid open, then closed. “Wangji…”

            A-Yuan followed his gaze. He saw another immaculate, white-robed man and realized this was Rich-gege.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes were lighter in color than his older brother’s, but today, they seemed far, far darker.

            Lan Xichen stood from the bed, concern evident in his voice. “Wangji, please, you must rest. Let your body recover fully. Some of your wounds have already opened again; if you continue like this…”

            Lan Wangji, “Xiongzhang…how is he?” His voice was flat, toneless, but something in it made A-Yuan so sad that he cried harder. He didn’t even know why.

            Lan Xichen looked back at the child on the bed. “He is very, very ill. I am trying to bring his fever down.”

            A-Yuan was still confused; he thought he was at Burial Mounds, but if he was there, why wasn’t Wei Wuxian by his side? He sobbed, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege! I want Xian-gege, where is Xian-gege?”

            Pain flashed across Lan Wangji’s eyes. His eyebrows pulled faintly together as he took the cloth from his brother’s hand. His voice was barely more than a whisper as he said, “I will do it.”

            Lan Xichen grew even more worried. “Wangji, you…you do not have to be here right now. He is confused. He keeps calling for…He…You do not have to—”

            Lan Wangji repeated even more quietly, “I will do it.”

            A-Yuan hiccupped, “Gege…Popo, I want Popo…”

            Lan Wangji knelt by the bed, running the cloth over A-Yuan’s forehead.

            It felt so much better, but A-Yuan still shook with his tears. He didn’t know where he was; the room was unfamiliar, and though he remembered Rich-gege, he didn’t know why he was with him. He didn’t know the other man who looked like Rich-gege, and he didn’t know why no one he was familiar with was there. If he tried very, very hard, the last thing he remembered was a bloodied, haggard Wei Wuxian, and then being shoved into a small, tight hole inside a tree, and that made him even more scared. He continued to cry, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege…”

           Lan Wangji used his sleeve to wipe the child’s running nose. His own eyes filled, and he looked down. He was entirely expressionless, but A-Yuan saw his tears fall silently. That made him cry even harder; some part of his intuition told him that something was wrong, that something had happened. But if something had happened, where was his family? Where were Popo and Si-shu and Qing-jiejie and Xian-gege?

            Lan Xichen’s voice grew pained. “Wangji, please do not do this to yourself. Let me take care of him. Go back to bed, Wangji. Once he is better—”

            He didn’t get to finish. A door slid open loudly, and A-Yuan looked past the brothers to see an older man. He had a short goatee that quivered as he entered the room. His eyes were terrifyingly angry. His expression scared A-Yuan so much that, with a frightened whimper, he stopped crying.

            Lan Qiren’s voice was harsh from the start. “Wangji! What have you done? What do you think you are doing now?! Where did this presumptuousness come from?!”

            Lan Xichen stepped between them. “Shufu, please do not use anger now. Wangji—”

            Lan Qiren was in the middle of his rage, though, and couldn’t see reason. “Wangji, you cannot continue with this nonsense! I will not allow it!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t answer. He continued to wipe the sweat from A-Yuan’s skin. A-Yuan’s nose still ran, and his tears still flowed, but he was very, very careful not to make a sound.

            Lan Qiren grew even angrier. “And now you do not even look at me?! Where is your respect?! Where are your manners?! I suppose I do not need to wonder from whom you learned such disrespect!”

            Lan Xichen was shocked. “Shufu! Please, no more. He—”

            Lan Qiren glared at him. “Xichen, do not defend him! This is unacceptable, and you know it.” He looked at Lan Wangji again, fire in his eyes. “Your punishment was not over, and yet you forcefully broke through the barrier without permission. You flew to the Burial Mounds in such a state, and now you have brought back this child! Do you not understand what position you have put me in? What position you have put your brother in?! He is the sect leader! What are we to do? Do we let you keep him, a Wen child?! Do we take him back to the Jin Sect? Do we—”

            Lan Xichen understood the situation far more clearly than Lan Qiren. He knew exactly who A-Yuan was, for Lan Wangji had told him of his trip to Yiling and the child he had met there. He knew how important this child had been to Wei Wuxian, and therefore he knew how important this child now was to Lan Wangji. “Shufu, please do not continue. Do you not see the harm your words do him now? What is done is done. Let him be.”

           Lan Qiren’s goatee quivered even more. “Let him be?! He has learned no lesson! A hundred more strikes from the discipline whip would do nothing in the face of such insolence! Wangji, was it not enough already? You took him from Nightless City, risking your own reputation; you hurt so many of our sect, those who cared for and trusted you most! That was not enough, you even had to do this? Wangji, I forbid you to keep this child. What will people say? How will I explain where he came from? Would you have them think he was yours?! You would throw your life away, just like your father, and for what?!”  

            Lan Wangji’s fingers had begun to shake as he wiped A-Yuan’s forehead. A-Yuan was staring at him with wide eyes, snot and tears running across his face. Lan Wangji used his sleeve to clean his nose again, but A-Yuan was frozen. He had seen what no one else had.

            Lan Wangji was crying. After a moment, he set the cloth down slowly. Trembling, he took A-Yuan’s tiny hand in both of his and curled forward, pressing his forehead to the edge of the bed. Lines of fresh blood began to blossom across his white robes as the wounds on his back were torn open again. A whispered, strangled sound broke from his chest, and then everything in the room fell silent.

            Lan Xichen dropped to his side at once. “Wangji!”

            Lan Qiren was shocked. “Wangji?”

            Neither had ever seen him cry, not like this. As a baby, he had been quiet, never throwing tantrums. As a child, he had been easy to handle and quite obedient. Even after his mother’s death, he had not shed tears in such a way.

            Lan Xichen’s own eyes filled as he realized his brother’s heart in such chaos. He whispered, “Shufu, please. He has lost more than enough; do not take the boy from him, too. Punish him with kneeling or copying if you must, but do not punish him with words any longer.”

            Lan Qiren’s goatee quivered even more. His anger was back, but it had a new target. Now, he was furious with another, someone who, in his opinion, had carelessly and heartlessly lured his nephew into such chaotic circumstances. He hated the man who had reduced Lan Wangji to this state, the man whose evil Lan Wangji still would not admit, the man Lan Wangji had risked everything to save, the man who had cast Lan Wangji aside, as though his feelings meant nothing. As though his sacrifice meant nothing.

            He could not bear to watch the scene any longer. Shaking with rage, he left. The door slammed shut behind him.

            As soon as he heard Lan Wangji’s whispered sobs, A-Yuan began to wail.

            Lan Xichen’s voice came out tortured. “Wangji…” But for once, he didn’t know what to say.

            Lan Wangji’s shoulders shook. The wounds on his back continued to bleed, staining his robes like blood on snow, but he could barely feel it anymore.

            That time in Yiling, he had been looking for Wei Wuxian. Finding him in that small town below Burial Mound had managed to somewhat set his heart at ease. Despite the stories he had heard, Wei Wuxian was still the same. Despite everything, Wei Wuxian still had laughed and smiled and joked, and for a while, Lan Wangji had thought everything might be alright. Seeing those on Burial Mound had eased his worry, too. Though the cultivational world railed against him and he had been torn from his own family, Wei Wuxian had still found some happiness in his own, small way. He had people who cared for him, whom he cared for, too. Parting with him that day had been harder than Lan Wangji could admit, but he had gone thinking that, at least, Wei Wuxian would not be alone.

            Now, he knew he never should have left.

            Lan Xichen didn’t know what to do. His own tears fell seeing his younger brother in such a state. Lan Wangji had always been upright and dignified; even when he had been whipped over thirty times, he had not shown a flicker of weakness. Seeing him like this, curled in on himself, wracked by a pain that could not be healed, was more than Lan Xichen could bear.

            A-Yuan was more terrified than ever. He knew for certain now that something terrible must have happened. More than anything, he wanted those he was familiar with. Without realizing the pain he caused, he cried, “Popo, Qing-jiejie—Xian-gege, Xian-gege, where are you!”

            Lan Wangji bent further to the ground, covering his face with one hand.

            Lan Xichen’s fingers shook as he took over the cloth and laid it across A-Yuan’s forehead. “Shh, child. It is alright. You are safe. You are safe.”

            It was then that Lan Sizhui had awoken.

            Now, he pulled his legs up and hugged them, staring out the window. He knew it had been many years since that night. He knew Wei Wuxian was back. He knew Hanguang-Jun was happy now. And he knew it was silly to cry, but he couldn’t stop the tears streaming down his face.

            Something shifted behind him in the room. A drowsy voice mumbled, “Sizhui? What is wrong?”

            Lan Sizhui glanced back, wiping his face swiftly. “Nothing. Why are you awake?”

            Lan Jingyi looked worried. “Did you have another bad dream?”

            Lan Sizhui didn’t want to lie. “Yes…I am sorry. I did not mean to wake you.”

            Lan Jingyi was sitting up in bed now. “Do you want to talk about it?”

            Lan Sizhui sighed. “No, I do not think so. Thank you. You can go back to sleep. I will try to, as well.”

            Lan Jingyi looked at him a moment longer. “Alright…if you want to talk, you can wake me up.”

            Lan Sizhui smiled softly. “Thank you, Jingyi.”

            Lan Sizhui waited for him to lay back down, and then he turned to the window again. For a while, he stared at nothing. However, unexpectedly, just when Lan Jingyi’s snores started up again, Lan Sizhui saw two figures pass by on the path. One seemed to glow like the moon, ethereal, while the other wore clothes as dark as night.

            Wei Wuxian’s voice was soft at such a late hour, but it drifted to Lan Sizhui’s ears, nonetheless. He couldn’t make out the words, precisely, but the tone was light and teasing.

            He was close by Lan Wangji’s side, their fingers interlaced on their moonlit walk. Whatever he was talking about had him animatedly motioning with his hands. More than once, he pulled Lan Wangji’s hand up with his, gesturing here and there.

           But what struck Lan Sizhui was the soft smile Hanguang-Jun wore as he listened. His eyes never left Wei Wuxian as they walked, his gaze staggeringly tender. Lan Sizhui had, of course, seen them together more than once, but never when they thought they were so alone. Hanguang-Jun’s love and devotion were more apparent now than they had ever been, and Wei Wuxian hadn’t managed to drop his smile even once.

            Lan Sizhui had no idea what they were doing out so late; it was forbidden to walk around at such a late hour, but for some reason, the idea of Hanguang-Jun breaking such a rule with Wei Wuxian only made Lan Sizhui smile. He wiped his face again and lay back down, thinking to himself, Luckily…

            Luckily, Hanguang-Jun has Wei Qianbei back.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling had been pacing in front of Sword Hall for over half an hour now. His uncle was in the training grounds, using his own methods to whip everyone into shape. Ever since the Guanyin Temple, Jiang Cheng’s temper had been especially bad. Jin Ling thought he understood why. All these years, they’d both had the comfort of knowing who to blame for the bad things that had happened; recently, though, that had all been upended and confused. Without knowing where to release that anger, fair or not, it had been dumped onto the Jiang Sect’s disciples.

            Jin Ling would’ve sympathized with them more if he hadn’t also been on the receiving end of Jiang Cheng’s biting comments. At least they didn’t have to deal with it over dinner.

            The true reason for Jin Ling going to Lotus Pier was that he was feeling very, very frustrated. He wanted someone to talk to; he just didn’t know who. Well, no, he knew who he wanted to talk to, but that was out of the question. So he could only go to Yunmeng.

            He had always spent half his time at Lotus Pier and the other half at Lanling growing up. At the Jin Sect’s residence, he’d always had his youngest uncle to turn to. Jin Guangyao had always made him smile even when he was sad; he’d taken the burdens off Jin Ling’s shoulders. He’d even given him his beloved spiritual dog. In Jin Ling’s experience, Jin Guangyao had always been generous and open-hearted, sacrificing his own comfort to ease the discomfort of others.

            But after everything, Jin Ling didn’t know what to make of his youngest uncle anymore. Had it all been an act? Had he ever cared for him at all? Jin Ling had begun to doubt all the memories of his childhood; were those smiles fake? Were his kind words a lie? At the Guanyin Temple, he’d been so quick to put a wire around Jin Ling’s neck and had even tried to kidnap him as insurance; how far would he have gone if he hadn’t been stopped?

            Jin Ling didn’t know what to believe anymore; he didn’t think he’d ever known his uncle at all, only the guise he’d put up. That his uncle could do such things seemed unreal, but there was proof for everything. Backed into a corner, he’d even stabbed Jiang Cheng, threatened Wei Wuxian, and tried to kill Lan Xichen.

            But this was just one thing on Jin Ling’s mind.

            The second was everything that had happened afterwards.

            Jin Ling had never expected to suddenly become a sect leader, especially at such a young age. It didn’t help that he didn’t have any friends or anyone he was close to in Lanling; in fact, all of them seemed to be waiting for him to fail. He had been the “spoiled young master” for years; now that he’d suddenly been thrust into a position of power he’d never wanted, he had enormous pressure. He didn’t even know what he was doing, and he didn’t know who to ask for guidance. Jiang Cheng had been about his age when he’d lost his entire sect and had to build it up from scratch in the middle of a war; if Jiang Cheng could do that, why couldn’t Jin Ling manage to take over the Jin Sect’s more-or-less stable leadership in a time of peace?

            Jin Ling began to pace faster. His thoughts were scrambled, and he felt discontent in every way possible.

            Suddenly, a harsh voice demanded, “Are you trying to run a hole into the ground? Stop pacing like that, Jin Ling.”

            Jin Ling immediately stopped and looked at his uncle. He frowned. “What, I can’t even walk anymore?”

            Jiang Cheng’s expression darkened. He was having a bad day himself, so his temper was shorter than usual. “You talk back to me more and more every day. You really don’t like your legs, do you?”

            Jin Ling gave a wordless cry of frustration. He had been listening to the same words his entire life. “You’re so annoying, Jiujiu!!! If you’re gonna break them, just do it already! Stop threatening me with—”

            Jiang Cheng raised his hand, and Jin Ling stopped cold. Jiang Cheng had never actually hit him, but he looked like he seriously might now.  

            After a moment, releasing a furious breath, Jiang Cheng let his hand fall away harmlessly. “Watch your tongue, Jin Ling. I’m not in the mood today for your attitude.”

            Jin Ling snorted and mumbled under his breath, “Like you ever are.”

            Jiang Cheng, “What was that?”

            Jin Ling, “Nothing, nothing…”

            Jiang Cheng, “Why are you wasting your time pacing around here anyway? Don’t you have something more important to do?”

            Jin Ling crossed his arms. His expression turned gloomier. Honestly, he had come because he had wanted to talk to his uncle. After he’d talked with Wei Wuxian about his mother, he had felt…

            Well, he didn’t know how to describe it. It had made him feel better in a way, he supposed, to know something about her. And he could see in Wei Wuxian’s eyes how much he loved her too, and that had helped him put things into perspective, as well.

            But Jiang Cheng had found the portrait of his mother that Wei Wuxian had drawn for him, and he’d been in a mood ever since. If Jin Ling had to guess, he thought maybe Jiang Cheng was angry because he’d gone to Wei Wuxian to talk about her, but could he really be so surprised when this was how he greeted Jin Ling?  

            Jiang Cheng looked away, struggling to control his temper. Jin Ling’s guess wasn’t wrong. As soon as he’d found the drawing, he’d known exactly who had drawn it. He had grown up with Wei Wuxian; he’d know his drawing style anywhere. It wasn’t that he was angry Jin Ling had asked about her, and it wasn’t really even that it was Wei Wuxian he’d asked. Jiang Cheng didn’t know what had upset him so much. Perhaps it was that Jin Ling felt like he couldn’t go to him, that he instead had gone to someone he barely knew for answers about his mother.

            It was more than just that, though.

            Jiang Cheng was tired. He had spent so many years hating Wei Wuxian. He didn’t want to hate him anymore. But that anger was still churning in his chest, and it had no other outlet. If not Wei Wuxian, who could he blame? Jin Guangyao? Jin Zixun? Su She? All of them were already dead.

            With nowhere for his anger to go, he could only withhold it. But that only made it fester.

            Jiang Cheng had never been very patient. Seeing the Jin Ling with yet another scowl, Jiang Cheng found himself wanting to smack it off his face.  “What’s wrong this time, Jin Ling?”

            Jin Ling kicked at a pillar. “Why are you always like this?! You’re always so mean! I don’t have anyone else to go to! I only came here to talk, and you act like this! This is the only place I can go, yet you always treat me like I’m some kind of problem! Well, I’m sorry I got dumped off on you! I’m sorry I’m such a burden to you!”

            For a long time, Jiang Cheng’s relationships with people had been comprised of sharp retorts. Like his nephew, he grew defensive in the face of criticism. He was too angry today to really hear what Jin Ling was trying to communicate. Without thinking about who he was saying such a thing to, he shouted, “You’re sorry?! Not half as sorry as I am!”

            Jin Ling froze. Jiang Cheng regretted the flash of hurt he saw in the boy’s eyes. He was on the verge of taking it back when Jin Ling snapped, “You…you…Wei Wuxian never treats me like this! Why are you so hateful?!” It perhaps would have sounded like a silly thing to say, but Wei Wuxian was his uncle, too.

            Jiang Cheng’s rage returned threefold. From this, all he heard was that, once again, there was something Wei Wuxian was better at than him. “Oh, Wei Wuxian is such a hero in your eyes now? Well, fine! Why don’t you go annoy him, then?! If he can do such a better job, go see if he wants you! I’m done!”

            Jin Ling’s eyes filled with tears. His voice cracked as he yelled, “Fine, I will! I won’t bother you ever again!”

            Jiang Cheng, “Fine! If you’re going, then don’t come back!”

            Jin Ling’s tears fell as he brushed past his uncle. “Don’t worry, I won’t!”

            Jiang Cheng’s chest was heaving. He watched Jin Ling wipe his eyes with his sleeve as he ran away. He was overwhelmed with a profound sense of regret. He hadn’t meant to say that—he hadn’t meant to say any of that at all. Helpless rage filled his chest again, but this time it was at himself. Zidian flickered to life. He lashed out with it, scorching the pillars of Lotus Pier with a roared curse.

***

Wei Wuxian was sitting on Little Apple’s back while Lan Wangji held the reins. That morning, he couldn’t explain why, but he’d suddenly wanted to take a day trip to Yunmeng. There was a small town near Lotus Pier that served a sweet, sugary dessert that he’d found himself craving for days. Finally unable to bear it, he’d asked if they could walk there. Flying would have been faster, of course, but he liked traveling with Little Apple, and Lan Wangji seemed to like it, too.

            Wei Wuxian took Chenqing from beside his waist. “I’ve been working on a little something, Lan Zhan.” He waggled the flute. “Wanna hear it?”

            Lan Wangji’s smile was soft as he nodded. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and cleared his throat with dramatic emphasis. He held the flute up to his lips. He had only managed to play a single note when he heard a sob from ahead. Both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian looked up at the same time.

            Someone was running down the road from the direction of Lotus Pier in sparkling white robes. It took Wei Wuxian a moment to recognize the figure, and then his heart leapt into his throat.

            He scrambled off Little Apple without thinking, but his foot got caught by the saddlebags, and he nearly fell. Lan Wangji caught and steadied him, and then Wei Wuxian was running.

            He called, “Jin Ling!”

            The boy slid to a stop when he saw the two figures approaching him and wiped his face roughly with his sleeve.

            Wei Wuxian stopped breathlessly before him, grabbing his shoulders. He searched him for injury or any sign of blood. “Jin Ling! What’s wrong?! Has something happened?! Where is—”

            Jin Ling shoved Wei Wuxian’s hands off his shoulders. “Don’t touch me!”

            Lan Wangji stopped beside Wei Wuxian. They exchanged a glance, and Lan Wangji read the frantic worry in Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

            Wei Wuxian looked back at Jin Ling, trying to lift his chin so he could see him more clearly. “Jin Ling, did something happen?! Where is your uncle?!”

            Jin Ling was still very upset. He’d only just left Lotus Pier, and now he had been seen crying in such a way by not only Wei Wuxian but also Hanguang-Jun. “Can’t I go anywhere without him!? Is he my handler?!”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart was hammering so hard it hurt; though it made no logical sense, for a moment, he was terrified something had happened to Lotus Pier again. But that didn’t seem to be the case. Wei Wuxian reached for Jin Ling’s shoulder. “Jin Ling, what happened?”

            Jin Ling just wanted to be alone. He felt angry and on edge and wanted to shout and scream and hit everything in sight. He instead cried angrily, “Stop touching me! Leave me alone!!!”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t listen to him. He’d never seen Jin Ling in such a state, and it made him overly anxious. He reached for his arm again. “Jin Ling, talk to me, what—”

            He didn’t get to finish. Jin Ling was upset and now felt humiliated. He’d tried again and again to get him to stop touching him, and so now he could only use force to convey what he wanted. Without thinking, he shoved Wei Wuxian as hard as he could away from him, spiritual energy accompanying his strength.

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t expected such an explosive force at all, which was the only reason he fell. The blow wasn’t light by any means; he landed hard and rolled with it, pain jolting up his chest. A surprised grunt slipped through his teeth from the force Jin Ling had used, and he felt blood rush up his throat.

            Lan Wangji rushed over to him. “Wei Ying!” He helped him up slowly, his eyes concerned and then furious. One hand on Wei Wuxian’s cheek, the other propping him up, he looked back at the boy, obvious anger raising the volume of his voice. “Jin Ling, you—!”

            Wei Wuxian gripped his arm. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I’m fine.”

            Jin Ling was pale, appearing almost sick. His eyes were round, his hands shaking. “I-I-I didn’t—I didn’t mean to—I—”

            Wei Wuxian swallowed back the blood churning in his chest. If he coughed it up now, it would be very inconvenient. He pressed a hand to his chest, joking, “My, my, Jin Zongzhu is powerful indeed.”

            Jin Ling was breaking down. “W-Wei—I-I didn’t—I-I—”

            Lan Wangji stepped between them, turning his back on Jin Ling. He saw the cloud over Wei Wuxian’s face and realized he was holding back painfully. “Wei Ying—” He gripped Wei Wuxian’s wrist, using spiritual energy to check his condition.

            Wei Wuxian tried to pull his hand away. “I’m fine, I’m fine.” He looked around Lan Wangji. “Jin Ling, I’m fine. You think a little push is gonna hurt me? Y-you…” He stopped.

            Jin Ling’s eyes had filled with tears once more, all the frustration and guilt and embarrassment churning in his chest.

            Despite his best efforts, Wei Wuxian really couldn’t hold back anymore. He tried to stop it, but he suddenly jerked to one side, coughing up a mouthful of blood.

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying!” He held him and pulled out a handkerchief, wiping Wei Wuxian’s chin when he finished.

            Wei Wuxian complained as he took over the handkerchief, “Ugh, who knew kids were so strong?”

            Without a sound, Jin Ling dropped to his knees and buried his head in his hands.

            Wei Wuxian broke from Lan Wangji and went on his knees, too. “Jin Ling, it’s alright. I’m fine. You didn’t mean to. I barely even felt it. It’s only because of Mo Xuanyu’s spiritual powers that I—”

            Jin Ling began sobbing.

            Wei Wuxian’s chest pinched. For a long moment, everything in him tensed and felt awful, but he pushed those feelings aside as best he could. Jin Ling was still a child, and he had had a lifetime’s worth of bad things happen already. Fighting against his own discomfort, Wei Wuxian pressed a hand to Jin Ling’s back. He’d always told people not to cry, but sometimes, it was the only thing that helped. “It’s okay, Jin Ling…let it out.”

            Jin Ling bent forward, hiding his face.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart weakened when he saw fluids run through Jin Ling’s fingers. How long had he been crying? What had happened to him? Or was it just everything together that resulted in a breaking point today?

            Wei Wuxian looked up at Lan Wangji, his expression tortured. Lan Wangji sat beside him, resting a hand on his back.

            Wei Wuxian rubbed Jin Ling’s back while Lan Wangji rubbed his. “It’s okay, Jin Ling. I…I’m here…” Was him being there a comfort or a contributing factor to his distress?

            Without knowing what else to do, Wei Wuxian began to talk. He talked about nothing, really. He made comments on the weather, at first, and then he talked about Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui. He talked about how Little Apple had shrieked so loud one night that he’d woken up almost everyone in the Lan Sect, which made a quieting Jin Ling laugh softly, and then he talked about how Lan Jingyi had laughed so hard at dinner the other day that water had come through his nose, much to the horror of the elders in the room. This had also earned a soft laugh. He continued, joking that he was certain Lan Qiren was going to add ‘No Little Apples’ to the Wall of Rules and that he’d been there for only a few months and broken almost every single rule.

            It took a long time for Jin Ling to calm down. When he was finished crying, he felt more embarrassed than anything. The gloom in his chest had dissolved, making him feel awkward, as though he had overreacted to everything. He took the handkerchief Wei Wuxian offered and wiped his face, looking in the opposite direction, but he didn’t get up.

            Wei Wuxian continued talking while he composed himself, moving onto the topic of the water ghouls he and Lan Wangji had taken care of on their way there and the sugary desserts he was on his way to go get.

            Jin Ling snorted very quietly at that. “Those things were disgusting…”

            Wei Wuxian swatted his shoulder lightly. “Hey, you brat, have you ever even had one? It’s delicious, or at least it was when I was a kid.”

            Jin Ling’s eyes were puffy and red. He looked down, folding the wet handkerchief awkwardly. “I…I did not mean to…I’m sorry…”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand. “You don’t have to say that to me. I just wasn’t expecting it. You didn’t do any harm.” Wei Wuxian pulled his hand back, dusting off the ends of his own robes. “Do you want to talk about what happened?”

            Jin Ling shook his head and sighed, looking away. “Stupid.”

            Wei Wuxian joked, “What did you call me?”

            It managed to make Jin Ling smile, at least. “I meant what happened was stupid.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to, but I’m here if you do.”

            Jin Ling didn’t talk for a long time. The comment and the tone it was said in made his eyes water again. Finally, he mumbled, “My uncle said I shouldn’t go back to Lotus Pier.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed softly. “Were you fighting?”

            Jin Ling nodded.

            Wei Wuxian, “Don’t mind the things he says when he’s angry…He doesn’t mean them, Jin Ling. He’s always been like that. He lashes out with whatever terrible insult he can come up with, no matter who he’s talking to or how much damage it’ll do. He didn’t mean it.”

            Jin Ling’s eyes grew hot again. “Sometimes, it feels like he doesn’t even like me, like he thinks I’m just annoying and stubborn and a brat. He never wanted kids, and now he has me getting in his way all the time.”

            Wei Wuxian made a tch sound with his tongue. “Jin Ling, your uncle loves you. He just…doesn’t know how to show it. He’s always been bad with that. He didn’t mean what he said. I’m not excusing him; he’s a brat and needs to learn how to communicate properly, but…don’t take to heart the things he says in anger.” He continued in a lighter tone, “Sure, you’re stubborn and annoying and a brat—” Jin Ling was so surprised that he laughed shakily, wiping his nose. Wei Wuxian smiled, “But I know your uncle loves you. You know how he is; he doesn’t show affection, but it’s obvious in his actions that he loves you most. Er…when he isn’t angry, that is. When he’s angry, he’s a brat.” He was about to continue when a loud series of barks exploded down the road.

            Wei Wuxian jumped a mile, throwing himself at Lan Wangji without even looking to see where the dog was or whose it was. “Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji pulled him to his feet and place himself between them.

            Jin Ling turned around at the same time. “Fairy?” He glanced at Wei Wuxian, who seemed to be trying to climb Hanguang-Jun like a tree, and then whistled. “Stay there, don’t come closer, Fairy.”

            The dog whined but stopped, hanging its head.

            Wei Wuxian was shaking violently. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji, “I am here. It will not come near you.”

            The promise was enough to make Wei Wuxian shakily stop climbing him.

            Someone suddenly snorted. “Still no progress. If anything, you’ve regressed.”

            Wei Wuxian looked up to see Jiang Cheng arrive on his sword. He dropped to the ground and sheathed Sandu before looking sideways at Wei Wuxian, who was still hiding behind Lan Wangji.

            Jiang Cheng didn’t greet either of them. “Jin Ling, if you ever run away like that again, I’ll—”

            Jin Ling was feeling better and muttered, “Break my legs. I know.”

            Jiang Cheng breathed out through his nose. “Did you fall?”

            Jin Ling seemed confused. “No?”

            Jiang Cheng, “Then why are you still on the ground?”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes and stood, dusting off his clothes.

            Jiang Cheng glanced in Wei Wuxian and Hanguang-Jun’s direction before he looked back at Jin Ling. It was immensely difficult for him to say, especially in front of others, but after Jin Ling had left, he’d processed what Jin Ling had been trying to tell him. He had felt awful. He hated that feeling more than he hated apologizing, so, though it was hard, he managed to begin gruffly, “Jin Ling, I…didn’t…” He sighed heavily. The words tasted bitter as they came out of his mouth. “I’m sorry, Jin Ling.”

            Jin Ling’s eyes flew wide. He didn’t think he’d ever heard his uncle apologize. Usually when they got into a fight, they went a while without talking and then pretended nothing had ever happened. “J-Jiujiu?”

            Jiang Cheng scowled. This wasn’t the reaction he had expected at all. “What?!”

            Jin Ling blinked owlishly. “You’re…apologizing to…me?”

            Jiang Cheng, “That’s what I said, isn’t it?!”

            Wei Wuxian burst with a quiet pfft.

            Jiang Cheng turned his scowl on him. “What’s so funny?”

            Wei Wuxian cleared his throat. “Nothing, nothing. Just…you’ve regressed.”

            Remembering his own words from he’d arrived, Jiang Cheng’s lips twitched. “Shut up.”

            A pang went through Wei Wuxian’s heart, because there was no venom attached to the statement. It sounded so familiar, like they were kids again. He looked down, smiling sadly.

            Jiang Cheng stared at him for a long moment. “Are you…two night-hunting?”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “Not really. Just passing through.”

            Jiang Cheng, “…To where?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Remember those sweets in the town across from Lotus Pier? I wanted to show them to Hanguang-Jun.”

            Jiang Cheng made a face. “Those things were disgusting.”

            Wei Wuxian huffed a sigh. “They weren’t that bad.”

            Jiang Cheng, “They don’t make them anymore. The old lady who had the recipe died a few years ago. She never wrote it down.”

            Wei Wuxian looked further down. “Oh…” He’d been hoping for a small taste from his childhood, something familiar to…He sighed, thinking, Ah, well. Doesn’t matter anymore.

            Jin Ling glanced between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng. Though his uncle refused to admit it, Jin Ling knew he was unhappy with the way things lay between him and Wei Wuxian. But his uncle was stubborn. He wouldn’t do anything about it, even if it was for his own good.

            Jin Ling decided to give him a push. He made a face at Jiang Cheng, gesturing to Wei Wuxian.

            Jiang Cheng scowled at him and silently told him to shut up.

            Jin Ling gestured harder.

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes up to the sky and then glared furiously at his nephew before glancing at Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, the latter of whom had been completely oblivious to their silent conversation. Jiang Cheng wrestled with a few different wordings before he muttered, “It’s late. You might as well stay in Lotus Pier since you’re all the way out here.”

            Wei Wuxian looked up again. “Ah?”

            Jiang Cheng, “That or camp in the woods. I don’t care which.”

            Jin Ling frowned at his uncle.

            Wei Wuxian stared at him for a moment. Jiang Cheng stared back. Slowly, Wei Wuxian nodded. “Alright.”

            Jiang Cheng nodded once, too. “Fine.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at Lan Wangji. Lan Wangji’s expression had returned to its norm of ice and frost, but when his eyes met Wei Wuxian’s, his gaze softened. He raised a hand to rub Wei Wuxian’s back and nodded encouragingly.

            Little Apple in tow, the four slowly made their way back to Lotus Pier.

            The last time they’d been there, Jiang Cheng had humiliated Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji in the ancestral hall, and they’d gotten into a fight. And later, Wen Ning had told Jiang Cheng the truth about his golden core.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t know what to make of the invitation today. He especially didn’t know what to say, if anything.

            As they passed through the gates of Lotus Pier, Jiang Cheng ordered someone to take the braying donkey to the stables. Wei Wuxian walked especially close to Lan Wangji. Lotus Pier didn’t feel like home anymore, not really. It was too different. None of the faces were familiar and few of the original buildings still stood.

            Lan Wangji didn’t seem to care that there were so many people around. Seeing the look in Wei Wuxian’s eyes, he took his hand.

            Wei Wuxian was a bit shocked, glancing at Lan Wangji before he squeezed his fingers in gratitude.

            Jiang Cheng hadn’t seen Hanguang-Jun and Wei Wuxian since that day at the Guanyin Temple, but he’d had a lot of time to think since then. When he turned around and saw them holding hands, he barely reacted. “You can stay here.”

            Wei Wuxian looked over. It was the place where his old room had once stood, now replaced with a long building with many compartments.

            Jiang Cheng glanced at it but didn’t comment on the past. “Pick whatever room you want. They’re all empty right now.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Oh, uh…thanks.”

            Jiang Cheng didn’t reply. “Jin Ling, come with me. We need to talk.”

            Jin Ling didn’t want to be difficult at such a time. He nodded once, glancing at Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. “We, um…we could have dinner later…together, I mean…if you want.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. “That’d be great.”

            Jiang Cheng frowned faintly but said nothing. “Jin Ling.”

            Jin Ling hurried, “I’m coming, I’m coming.” He looked back at Wei Wuxian. “I’ll…see you later, then?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded. “We’ll be…here.” He gestured to the rooms.

            When Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling were gone, Wei Wuxian released a long breath. “Didn’t…expect this. Let’s…” He cleared his throat and fixed his tone. “Let’s pick the best room, Hanguang-Jun!”  

            As he dragged Lan Wangji with him, Wei Wuxian made an effort to quell the hope that had begun to sprout in his chest. The truth was, he missed Jiang Cheng—a lot. But there was too much history there. Too much had happened, and both of them had said things they shouldn’t have. They couldn’t ever go back to the way things were.

            But…

            But with luck…maybe they could try for something new.

Chapter Text

At Wei Wuxian’s request, he and Lan Wangji were flying on Bichen out of the Cloud Recesses. He led them to an area south of Caiyi Town, urging Lan Wangji faster, faster, faster all the while. Time had gotten away from him, and he was afraid they would pick the worst timing to come around the mountain and ruin the surprise. Fortunately, all was quiet and normal over the little water town. Wei Wuxian didn’t look around too much, because he didn’t want Lan Wangji to notice anything different.

            He had searched for and picked a secluded spot in the mountains a few days ago when Lan Wangji had been busy with the juniors—or, rather, when he had organized for the juniors to distract Hanguang-Jun. He was relieved to see everything still waiting on the lush mountaintop when they landed.

            Lan Wangji saw a wide blanket, a small picnic basket, and a massive crate that held many items within it.

            Wei Wuxian was moving around swiftly, trying to make everything look nice. Apologetically, he said, “I would’ve set up sooner, Hanguang-Jun, but I didn’t want anyone to, er, take anything.” He grabbed a bouquet of pink peonies and wild flowers, laid them beside the blanket, and then found the small, sweet cakes he’d ordered from a restaurant in Caiyi Town that he thought Lan Wangji would like. He kept glancing in the direction of Caiyi Town, worried it would start early. 

            Lan Wangji watched him work with gentle eyes, an even softer smile hovering on his lips.

            Down in Caiyi Town, Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi were waiting with the villagers. Lan Sizhui was keeping a careful eye on the time, worried about starting too late or too early. He wanted everything to go perfectly; since Wei Wuxian had entrusted such an important task to him, Lan Sizhui was especially serious.

            On the mountain, Wei Wuxian had finished setting up. He stepped back beside Lan Wangji and nodded happily. “How is it? Not too bad, right?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze met his with overwhelming tenderness. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. “Hm?” His eyes said more, Is it good? Do you like it? 

            Lan Wangji kissed him, his sentiment given through action rather than words.

            Wei Wuxian grinned against it, throwing his arms around his neck. He kissed Lan Wangji a moment longer, and then he peripherally noticed the sun finally slip beyond the horizon. He hummed and pulled back. “It’s time, it’s time, it’s time!!” He caught Lan Wangji’s hand and dragged him over to the blanket, sitting with him.

            Lan Wangji interlaced their fingers, looking at Wei Wuxian as Wei Wuxian eagerly waited.

            Wei Wuxian was practically bouncing with excitement. In the past, he’d never been very good with people’s birthdays. It wasn’t that he didn’t care, but he had always been rather forgetful. He’d usually forgotten until a few days beforehand and had ended up feeling guilty for whatever gift he’d managed to throw together. But this time, with Lan Wangji, he wanted to make it count. It was the first birthday they would spend together; he wanted everything to be perfect. He had been planning and scheming with Lan Sizhui for over three months. Now, he couldn’t stop smiling in anticipation.

            Earlier, he had planned for the two to privately have dinner with Lan Sizhui to celebrate. Minutes before the meal had begun, Lan Xichen had also arrived, much to Wei Wuxian’s surprise and delight. They’d all had a quiet meal together—well, mostly quiet, because Wei Wuxian didn’t abide by the rule of not talking while eating. Fortunately, no one seemed to mind. Lan Xichen even chuckled quietly at some of the things Wei Wuxian said. His gaze was particularly soft when he saw Hanguang-Jun’s smile and the ways in which his brother looked at Wei Wuxian; it seemed part of Lan Xichen’s heart had finally been set at ease, and when he left, he seemed to be in good spirits.

            Afterwards, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had taken a long walk together, ostensibly to be alone but also because Wei Wuxian had asked the juniors to help him set up the big surprise for Lan Wangji. Time had gotten away from Wei Wuxian, and then they’d had to rush over here. Luckily, they hadn’t missed the beginning.

            The people of Caiyi Town were endlessly grateful to both the Lan Sect and Hanguang-Jun personally. When Wei Wuxian had made his request a month ago, he had expected it to be difficult to negotiate; it was a big ask, after all. Quite the contrary, the townspeople had leapt at the opportunity to help when they learned who it was for and on what day. They had even made amendments to Wei Wuxian’s plan, designing it to be even bigger and grander.

            Lan Wangji smiled at Wei Wuxian’s obvious excitement, finally turning his eyes in the direction Wei Wuxian was eagerly looking.

            Wei Wuxian, “Any second now…”

            The sun had set. For a few moments, the cloudy sky turned into a breathtaking mirage of vivid oranges and pinks. As the last rays of the sun finally faded, the sky shifted into a quickly darkening blue.

            Suddenly, a large, flickering paper lantern with a rabbit emblem rose over the edge of the mountain. Wei Wuxian’s grin grew threefold. A second one followed behind it, then a third. Soon, the sky over them was littered with glowing lanterns. They cast a warm glow down on Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, whose eyes were glittering with excitement.

            Wei Wuxian was beyond thrilled. Hundreds of paper lanterns floated overhead, drifting gracefully over them on their journey. Each one was hand-painted with something unique to them. Lotuses, pink peonies, rabbits, cloud patterns, a drifting white ribbon entangled with a vivid red one; some had the characters for "every day," others had their names written together.

            It had taken months for Wei Wuxian to secretly paint them all. He was relieved their images came out clearly enough to see.

            Originally, Wei Wuxian had wanted to do fireworks—the brighter, the better! But then he’d thought someone as quiet as Hanguang-Jun probably wouldn’t want something as loud as that.

            This was so much better. It was even more beautiful than Wei Wuxian had hoped.

            Grinning madly, he turned to see Lan Wangji’s reaction.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes were raised, tracking the image on each paper lantern that floated by. His lips had parted very faintly, and Wei Wuxian’s heart gave an almost painful pang. His Hanguang-Jun was almost too beautiful, especially with such an expression.

            But abruptly, Wei Wuxian froze.

            It was difficult to see anything with clarity in the low light, but Wei Wuxian could see him well enough to see the way Lan Wangji’s eyes glistened. Wei Wuxian suddenly was terrified. Had he done something wrong? Did Hanguang-Jun have a bad memory associated with paper lanterns? Oh no, what have I done? On his birthday?! You idiot!

            As Lan Wangji lowered his gaze, a tear fell silently, dripping off his lower eyelid and landing on his robes.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart seized. He whispered, “Lan…Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji looked up at him, his eyes a little red.

            Wei Wuxian slid closer, raising a hand worriedly to Lan Wangji’s cheek. “L-Lan Zhan, i-if you don’t like it, I’ll tell them to stop! I thought—”

            Lan Wangji surged forward, kissing Wei Wuxian with breathtaking force. He exhaled shakily, raising a hand to Wei Wuxian’s cheek, too.

            Wei Wuxian was confused for a split second before he melted into the kiss. Another tear slipped down to his thumb, and his heart weakened. He suddenly realized: It wasn’t that Lan Wangji didn’t like it; it was that he did.

            Wei Wuxian pulled from the kiss to hug Lan Wangji. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji held him even tighter, his head falling to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. Though he spoke little to others, he had usually been very concise in what he wanted to say. However, with Wei Wuxian, he had always found himself struggling for words, unable to articulate his feelings. 

            Today, it was more than clear how much effort Wei Wuxian had gone through for him. For so many years, Lan Wangji had wanted it to be just like this with Wei Wuxian. He had dreamed of waking up beside him, spending his days with him, listening to his jokes, seeing his smile. But even in those longing dreams, he had underestimated just what it would feel like.

            Unexpectedly overwhelmed, Lan Wangji could find no way to articulate any of this, so he simply held Wei Wuxian, unable to stop a few more tears from falling.

            Wei Wuxian’s own eyes filled, and he closed them tightly, smiling. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I love you so much, every day.”

            Lan Wangji’s hold tightened. “Love you…every day.”

            A strangled laugh burst from Wei Wuxian as he kissed Lan Wangji’s temple and cheek and then hugged him tighter. “Happy birthday, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji lifted his head to kiss him deeply again. His fingers were gentle on his skin, brushing strands of loose hair behind his ear. Slowly, he tipped him back against the blanket. Wei Wuxian hummed into the kiss, throwing his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck.

            Bathed in the warm glow from the floating lanterns, it didn’t take long for the kiss to turn hungry. Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian’s thigh up, hooking it higher around his waist as their hips rocked together slowly. Wei Wuxian moaned softly, arching into Lan Wangji’s touch. He reached up, tugging at his forehead ribbon. Lan Wangji took it off with one hand and interlaced it between his and Wei Wuxian’s fingers. Wei Wuxian squeezed his fingers back, smiling into the kiss.

           With his other hand and the help of Lan Wangji, he began shedding their clothes. His own length sprung back to his stomach eagerly; he’d been having such thoughts about Lan Wangji on and off all day, waiting for tonight when they could be alone again. He’d had specific plans for how he’d wanted to lavish Lan Wangji with attention tonight; this impromptu setting was better.

            Without delay, Lan Wangji found Wei Wuxian’s length with his free hand, stroking him slowly. Wei Wuxian grunted into the kiss, pulling away to breathe. His toes curled at how expertly Lan Wangji touched him, and he fell back, writhing even under such a slow pace. His hips started to buck up on their own. Lan Wangji hummed, a smile on his lips as he kissed his way down Wei Wuxian’s neck.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered, “Lan Zhan…th-this is supposed to be—ngh—your day. I’m supposed to be doing this to you. Wh-why are you—ah!” Lan Wangji had latched onto an especially sensitive area on his neck, and Wei Wuxian forgot how to speak. Lan Wangji’s thumb swiped across his head, collecting the fluid there, before his strokes grew just a bit faster.

            Wei Wuxian groaned, his limbs shaking, “Please, Lan Zhan, need you, want you—”

            It didn’t take anything else. Lan Wangji found his lips again in a searing kiss as he slowly entered Wei Wuxian.

            Long sounds were pulled from Wei Wuxian. He hooked his ankles around Lan Wangji’s back, holding on for dear life. Lan Wangji found Wei Wuxian’s hands again. He interlaced their fingers, raising their hands over Wei Wuxian’s head on the blanket. The ribbon drifted around one pair of their hands, tying them together loosely. Wei Wuxian idly thought he’d make that permanent if he could.

            The light overhead grew faint as Lan Wangji entered a slow, languid pace. Wei Wuxian’s lungs were bursting, but he didn’t dare break from the kiss. It turned somewhat messy as he panted around it, desperate for air but even more desperate not to separate from Lan Wangji. His moans grew needier every time Lan Wangji’s stomach ran against his length, which lay weeping against his own stomach. Hearing the sounds he made at such contact, Lan Wangji freed one of his hands, reaching between them to stroke Wei Wuxian. He set a languid rhythm in time with his thrusts, and it brought tears of pleasure to Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

            He broke from the kiss with an almost violent moan when he felt Lan Wangji brush against that spot inside him at the same time that he ran his thumb across his head. Shakily, he chanted Lan Wangji’s name, his legs quaking around Lan Wangji’s waist.

            Lan Wangji kissed down his neck, biting and nipping at his skin. Wei Wuxian gasped at a particularly hard bite, and Lan Wangji soothed it gently with a kiss before moving to the other side of his neck.  

            After a long time, Wei Wuxian finally realized the lanterns were gone. He had bought and painted enough lanterns to last for a full hour; how time had flown.

            Wei Wuxian winced, sucking in a soft breath through his teeth. Everything was very nearly perfect but for one thing. There had been a rock digging into Wei Wuxian’s shoulder for the last hour.

            He flinched again. He hadn’t chosen this spot with this intention in mind. If he’d known, he would’ve picked a thicker blanket. He wasn’t complaining—far from it—but the terrain left much to be desired.

            After a while, the pain became unbearable, distracting him from the pleasure coursing through his veins. When he just couldn’t take it anymore, he finally panted, “L-Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s voice was warm even on a single syllable, “Mm?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I—ow—there’s—can we shift a little?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t ask any questions. He pulled Wei Wuxian up with him until he was kneeling. Wei Wuxian ended up on his lap, and Lan Wangji ended up so deep in him that Wei Wuxian threw his head back with a startled moan.

            Wei Wuxian gripped his shoulders clumsily. “W-wait, wait—that—ah—feels so good—Lan Zhan—just like that—”

            He suspected Lan Wangji had been about to lay him down again, but now, Lan Wangji leaned back, adjusting to the new position. His own breaths increased as Wei Wuxian’s muscles contracted around him, and his pace became slightly faster. Wei Wuxian’s knees were planted on the ground, and he used the leverage to quicken the pace even more. He rolled against Lan Wangji harder, pulling low sounds from both of them. One of Lan Wangji’s hands moved to grasp his waist while the other raised to his cheek. His nose brushed against Wei Wuxian’s as they moved together, and Wei Wuxian could feel the delicate brush of his breaths against his skin.

            Wei Wuxian was nearly blinded by pleasure, but he seldom had the presence of mind see what Lan Wangji looked like in these moments. He forced his eyes open. The lanterns had stopped, but the moon was bright enough to see by.

            Wei Wuxian’s breath stuttered, his heart flipping at the sight before him. Lan Wangji’s eyebrows were pulled close together in pleasure. His lips were swollen from their kiss and redder than usual, parted to accommodate how rapidly his breaths were moving.

            Wei Wuxian was, not for the first time, utterly struck by how beautiful Hanguang-Jun truly was. If his indifferent face was already beautiful, how could one ever describe what he looked like in the midst of such pleasure?

            Perhaps feeling Wei Wuxian’s gaze, Lan Wangji opened his eyes. They roved over Wei Wuxian’s features adoringly, something urgent growing steadily behind his heavily-lidded eyes.

            At such a heated look, Wei Wuxian’s knees felt like jelly.

            Lan Wangji was the first to murmur breathlessly, “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s next breath left him in nearly whining fashion, and he dove for Lan Wangji’s mouth. He kissed Lan Wangji so hard, his lips felt bruised. He moaned into it, quickening his pace even more. Though the night was cool, sweat ran down his back, sliding across his skin. He began angling his hips forward with every thrust, brushing his neglected length urgently against Lan Wangji’s stomach. When Lan Wangji went to find his length, Wei Wuxian caught his hand, bringing it instead to his waist. He was worried about finishing too soon, and, though everything in him ached to release, he wanted Lan Wangji to get exactly what he wanted, for however long he wanted it.

            Which was a dangerous thing, he supposed. Lan Wangji had incredible stamina; they could be here all night.

            Lan Wangji understood, instead guiding Wei Wuxian’s hips. A soft groan left him when Wei Wuxian contracted his muscles. Wei Wuxian made sure to do it more often. Finally, Lan Wangji had to break from his kiss, dropping his head to his shoulder. Wei Wuxian in turn let his head fall back, riding Lan Wangji faster. Pleasure was spiking in his stomach, and he knew if he didn’t slow down, he’d come. He stopped angling his hips forward to keep himself from receiving too much friction too fast.

            Wei Wuxian panted, “Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege, Hanguang-Jun…is this too fast? Should I slow down? Want it to be good for you, want you to—ngh—Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s breath left him in a very, very soft grunt, and the sound of it made Wei Wuxian roll against him almost violently. Lan Wangji repeated it a bit louder at the force, his fingers digging into Wei Wuxian deep enough to bruise.

            Lan Wangji breathed, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian moaned at the sound, rambling, “Tell me what you want…Anything, I’ll do anything…let me make it as good as I can.” Wei Wuxian realized Lan Wangji’s fingers were shaking faintly as he raised them to his cheek. He continued, “Tell me what you need,” and then thought better of it, adding, “Show me. Any way you want.”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei…Wei Ying…”

            The rare stammer, unique to these moments alone, made Wei Wuxian feel utterly lightheaded. His length throbbed between them, begging for attention. Tears sprung to his eyes as he chose a deeper pace. Lan Wangji brushed against that spot inside him with every thrust until Wei Wuxian was a moaning mess. His head fell back, his expression contorting. His length gave a violent pulse between them, pleasure rushing up his body far too quickly.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes flashed open and then squeezed shut when he realized what was happening. He tried to warn, “Ah! L-Lan Zhan! W-wait, I’m—” But he didn’t get the words out in time. Pleasure exploded within him. His muscles contracted tight around Lan Wangji, earning a strangled sound in return, as, for the first time, Wei Wuxian came untouched.

            When Lan Wangji realized what had happened, his pace grew more urgent. He groaned softly, pulling Wei Wuxian’s hips against him. Wei Wuxian moaned his name, gripping his shoulders too hard as he rode it out. Lan Wangji managed another few thrusts before he pulled Wei Wuxian’s hips flush against his and stilled. With a deep, breathy, “Wei Ying,” he dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder and panted.

            Wei Wuxian felt himself pulse through the last of his orgasm, and then he collapsed against Lan Wangji. After a moment, Lan Wangji fell back, too, and then Wei Wuxian was laying on top of him. He didn’t have the brain power at the moment to realize how he was making the mess on their stomachs worse. All he could do was struggle to catch his breath. Beneath his head, Lan Wangji’s chest and heart were both flying.

            He whispered a nearly strangled rendition of Wei Wuxian’s name.

            Wei Wuxian lifted his head slowly. He couldn’t even manage to open his eyes as he blindly sought Lan Wangji. Lan Wangji met him eagerly, their kiss tender as they panted.

            Wei Wuxian exhaustedly put his hands on either side of Lan Wangji’s head, kissing him with as much force as he could muster. When he was just too tired to continue, he let his head fell beside Lan Wangji’s.

            Wei Wuxian groaned, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I can’t move.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips were smiling as they brushed against his temple. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Does that mean you can’t move, either?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers drifted across his back. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed breathlessly. “Well, this’ll be awkward.”

            A soft chuckle came from Lan Wangji. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian joked, “Did I break you, too? Is ‘Mm’ all you can say now?”

            Lan Wangji kissed Wei Wuxian’s temple again, murmuring softly, “…Love you.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart fluttered. He picked his head up to look at Lan Wangji. Lan Wangji met his gaze, something indescribably soft within his eyes. He raised a hand, thumb tracing the bottom line of the smile that broke out across Wei Wuxian’s face. Wei Wuxian hummed, “I love you so much, my good Hanguang-Jun. Happy birthday.”

            Lan Wangji kissed him again, slow and deep. His fingers drifted across his back delicately, entering a soothing rhythm that made Wei Wuxian even drowsier. Despite that, he kissed him back with equal force. A cool breeze swept through the mountains, raising goosebumps along Wei Wuxian’s skin. Lan Wangji felt him shudder and drew the blanket over them. They knew they had to clean up, dress, and go home, but for the moment, they remained wrapped in each other’s embrace.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling had been waiting for half an hour. He was glaring at the ground, kicking rocks to vent his annoyance. Last night after dinner, Wei Wuxian had agreed to meet with him at seven the next morning for a short night-hunt. Seven had come and gone, but there was still no sign of Wei Wuxian. He liked to joke about his poor memory, but he hadn’t seriously forgotten, had he?

            The only thing that had stopped Jin Ling from barging to Wei Wuxian’s room and pounding on the door was the fact that Hanguang-Jun was there, too. Jin Ling’s face wasn’t so thick that he’d do something like that.

            But still! He thought Lan Sect people woke up at five in the morning. It was close to eight, and there was still no sign of either Hanguang-Jun or Wei Wuxian!

            Jin Ling exhaled sharply, ready to say, “forget it,” he heard someone running up the path behind him.

            He glanced back briefly and then glared ahead again.

            Wei Wuxian stopped, resting his hands on his knees breathlessly, “Aiyo, what an expression!”

            Jin Ling was clearly still annoyed. “We said seven.”

            Wei Wuxian fought a smile. He was sorry, but he couldn’t help finding Jin Ling’s angry face amusing. “We did. Forgive me, Jin Zongzhu!!”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes. “Why are you even so late?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and cocked an eyebrow. “Are you sure you want to know?”

            Jin Ling huffed, blushing at the implication, “You’re so shameless!!! Just…are you ready or not?!”

            Wei Wuxian snickered. “I’m only joking, Jin Ling. Don’t be so serious all the time. I’m sorry; I overslept.”

            Jin Ling frowned. “I thought you people woke up at five.”

            Wei Wuxian flicked his shoulder. “Don’t say ‘you people’ in that tone. It’s very rude. And I may be utterly, hopelessly devoted to Hanguang-Jun—”

            Jin Ling flushed a deeper red, “Ugh! Shut up!!”

            “—but I don’t have the willpower of a Lan Sect disciple. I’ve even begun corrupting Hanguang-Jun! I can’t remember the last time he went to bed at nine—wait, where are you going?!”

            Jin Ling had picked up his sword and stormed off in the direction of the road.

            Wei Wuxian was quick to catch up. “You’re so grumpy today. Did you have another fight with your uncle?”

            Jin Ling, “No…”

            Wei Wuxian raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

            Jin Ling said more convincingly, “No. Just…we said seven! You’re not even taking it seriously. If you didn’t want to come, you could’ve just said so!”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, dropping his joking tone. “I know we said seven, Jin Ling. I really am sorry. I didn’t mean to make you wait on me. I’m excited to come with you. I’ve been looking forward to it.”

            Jin Ling scoffed, looking away, but under his breath, he asked, “Really?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed and dropped his arm over Jin Ling’s shoulder. “Obviously! To see the great Jin Zongzhu in action is—aiya!”

            Jin Ling had pushed him off. “Shut up!! You’re so loud and annoying.”

            Wei Wuxian knew he wasn’t being serious, so he grinned broadly, “If I’m so loud and annoying, why did you ask me to come?”

            Jin Ling turned around. “Never mind. I’m going home.”

            Wei Wuxian caught his arm and spun him forward again. “Alright, alright, my apologies, Jin Zongzhu. I’ll be quiet, I’ll be quiet.” He thought to himself, He really is a lot like Jiang Cheng, isn’t he? They even brood in the same way.

            True to his word, Wei Wuxian didn’t make another sound as the two walked. He admired the view instead, twirling Chenqing between his fingers.        

            Jin Ling bit the inside of his cheek. After a moment, he wondered, “…Where’s Hanguang-Jun?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Back in our room.”

            Jin Ling, “You didn’t want him to come?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Today’s for you and me, right?”

            Jin Ling fought a smile, looking away. “Hmph.”

            Wei Wuxian looked ahead with his own smile. “Alright, what are we getting ourselves into?”

            Jin Ling shrugged. “Nothing big. Just some walking corpses I heard about this morning. The village was making a big deal about them, so I told Jiujiu I’d deal with it.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at Jin Ling. “To a small village, walking corpses are a big deal. Don’t be so critical of them. Not everyone comes from a powerful sect. They may seem easy to you, but they’re harder for those without spiritual powers and weapons to deal with.”

            Jin Ling’s face darkened a bit from the gentle reprimand, and he glanced away.

            Wei Wuxian knew Jin Ling made light of things to distance himself from them. He’d rather make fun of something or someone than admit he cared. But the fact that Jin Ling was going personally meant he did care; well, that, or he was bored. But Wei Wuxian preferred to think it was the former.

            After a while of silence, Wei Wuxian mused, “Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi were asking about you, you know. They want to go night-hunting with you again.”

            Jin Ling pretended to be disinterested, “Huh. R-really?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Mhm. I guess they like you or something. I tried to tell them you’re a brat but—” He shrugged.

            Jin Ling huffed. Without missing a beat, he switched gears, suddenly asking, “What am I supposed to call you?”

            Wei Wuxian hesitated mid-step before continuing forward. He spun his flute. “What do you mean?”

            Jin Ling, “I mean…how do I call you? If…you know, you get into trouble or something.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. He had a teasing nature and didn’t like to make things easy on people. “You can just say, ‘hey, there’s a walking corpse behind you!’”

            Jin Ling scowled. Wei Wuxian didn’t know why annoying the kid was so amusing to him. “Fine. If you get bitten, then it’s on you. Don’t blame me.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, but his smile was a little weak. It fell away quickly. After a moment, he wondered, as if he didn’t care one way or another, “Well, what do you want to call me?”

            Jin Ling shrugged awkwardly. “I don’t know…” Lan Sizhui and the others called him Wei Qianbei, but that felt too formal. Wei Wuxian felt too informal, and Wei Ying didn’t feel right, either, after he’d heard Hanguang-Jun call him that in such an intimate way. Jin Ling continued, stammering, “I-I heard you call my grandfather Jiang-shushu before. I could…call you Wei-jiujiu…”

            Wei Wuxian looked at him. He almost stopped walking. His heart clenched a little, and he smiled very softly.

            Jin Ling didn’t see this because he was looking away. When Wei Wuxian didn’t say anything, he felt humiliated. “Never mind! That was stupid, I just—”

            Wei Wuxian said quietly, “You can call me that…if you want.”

            Jin Ling peeked at him. “You…you wouldn’t mind?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled again. “No, I wouldn’t mind.”

            Jin Ling nodded once, his cheeks hot. “Fine. Then…if you’re about to die or something, I’ll call that.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled. He was on the verge of replying when, from up ahead, they heard a bloodcurdling scream.

            Both looked up sharply. Jin Ling broke into a run at once.

            Wei Wuxian, “Wait, don’t—!” He was about to say, “don’t run headfirst into trouble,” but Jin Ling had already loped off the road and into the trees. Wei Wuxian gripped Chenqing and followed after him hurriedly, mumbling, “Brat…”

            Wei Wuxian lost sight of Jin Ling but followed the screams. After another moment, he heard the sounds of fighting already. Wei Wuxian broke through the trees in time to see that Jin Ling had the situation well in hand. Still, among the more-or-less harmless walking corpses were a number of fiercer ones whose resentment hung heavy in the air.

            Without missing a beat, Wei Wuxian used his flute to stop a fierce corpse from slashing at Jin Ling’s leg. Almost at once, Suihua stabbed it through the heart, and it fell to the ground, twitching.

            Chenqing’s melody drifted through the trees. The lower-level corpses fell at once from the power of the song. The fierce corpses, however, were a little more stubborn. Still, between Wei Wuxian and Jin Ling, they didn’t stand much of a chance.

            A small home sat opposite them, the source of the screams. Inside, Wei Wuxian could hear the harried voice of a woman and the wails of at least two small children.

            Jin Ling cut down the last corpse, and Wei Wuxian lowered Chenqing.

            He nudged his chin at the house. “Go tell them it’s safe.”

            Jin Ling, “Why do I have to do it?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Weren’t you the one who ran to the rescue without a moment’s hesitation? Go on, Mr. Hero, go tell them it’s safe.”

            Jin Ling sheathed Suihua with a scowl. “You’re so annoying.”

            Wei Wuxian was busy examining the corpses. “Mhm.”

            In the background, he heard Jin Ling knock on the door lightly. “Uh…Aunt, it’s safe now. The corpses are gone.”

            When Wei Wuxian was certain they were all dead, he called Jin Ling over. “Let’s get them moved somewhere else.”

            Jin Ling sighed but didn’t argue. Dragging corpses, it took them half an hour to find a deserted field far from the home.

            Wei Wuxian, “I’ll start burning them; you go check for more.”

            Jin Ling nodded and dashed off.

            The rest of the day passed by swiftly enough. There were a few pockets of walking corpses around the small village. They were dealt with quickly and burned.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t fail to notice the looks some of the villagers were giving him. It didn’t really bother him; he was used to it. He wasn’t out in public often, but whenever he used Chenqing, it often earned him looks either fearful or angry. It couldn’t be helped.

            When they were finished, he and Jin Ling left while the townsfolk stood staring.

            Jin Ling thought it was rather annoying. “They’re so ungrateful. We spent all day cleaning up their mess, and they act like we’re some kind of…Ugh!”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “Don’t take it to heart. It wasn’t directed at you.”

            Jin Ling frowned. That was what was bothering him.

            Wei Wuxian continued, “Besides, night-hunting isn’t about fame or gratitude. We did a good thing here, clearing out those corpses. Rude or not, those people would have been in danger if we hadn’t intervened.”

            Jin Ling shrugged. “Yeah, I guess.”

            The sun was setting by the time they returned to Lotus Pier.

            As they passed through the gates, Jin Ling made a face. “I’ll go tell Jiujiu it’s all settled.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, go on then.”

            But he didn’t leave. He walked with Wei Wuxian until they reached the door to his and Hanguang-Jun’s room. Awkwardly, he tapped his boot against the doorframe. “Er…thanks for…coming with me.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Of course, Jin Zongzhu. The legends of you were true! You are powerful indeed!”

            Jin Ling stormed off. “You’re so annoying!! Goodbye!!!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. As he slid open the door to their room, he made a guess at what Lan Wangji was up to. As expected, Hanguang-Jun had been meditating, but he opened his eyes as Wei Wuxian came in.

            Lan Wangji, “How was it?”

            Wei Wuxian went over to him and lay down on the ground, resting his head on Lan Wangji’s thigh. He smiled, “Good. Missed you, though.”

            The backs of Lan Wangji’s fingers drifted across Wei Wuxian’s cheek.

            Wei Wuxian closed his eyes. “Mm, I hope you’re comfortable. Think I’ll take a nap right here.”

            There was a smile in Lan Wangji’s voice when he murmured, “Sleep then.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and rolled onto his side. “Back then, when I was sick, you really did let me rest on your leg, didn’t you? In the cave of the Tulu Xuanwu. I asked to, and you got mad, and then I passed out. But I suddenly remembered because this feels familiar. I thought it had been a dream, but now that I know you liked me back then, it must have been real.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head faintly at Wei Wuxian’s teasing, but his gaze was soft. Wei Wuxian hummed softly and then, in a matter of moments, he fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji were sitting at the back of a rather crowded restaurant. Wei Wuxian was watching Hanguang-Jun closely. His chin was propped by his hand, and he had an insatiable grin spreading across his face. Lan Wangji’s gaze was fixed over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, appearing to be quite virtuous. After a moment, he swallowed quietly and reached for his cup. He raised it to his lips, and Wei Wuxian laughed.

            Wei Wuxian, “Your cup’s empty.”

            Lan Wangji set it back down. A somewhat flustered breath fell as he reached for the tea kettle. His voice was still even and smooth, only slightly affected as he said, “Sit properly.”

            Wei Wuxian seemed confused. “I’m not sitting properly?”

            Lan Wangji raised the teacup again, taking a somewhat unsteady sip. “Your leg.”

            Wei Wuxian’s smile broadened. “What about it?”

            Lan Wangji, “Put it down.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ooh.”

            Lan Wangji set his teacup down a little too hard when Wei Wuxian shifted his leg under the table.

            Wei Wuxian flashed his eyebrows. “How’s that? Is that any better?”

            Lan Wangji’s pupils were dilated. “Stop.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Stop what? I can’t know what you’re talking about unless you say it out loud. What, specifically, do you want me to stop?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flicked up to his, pinning him where he sat. His eyes were heavily lidded. They might have looked angry to someone else, but Wei Wuxian was very familiar with this look.

            Wei Wuxian deliberately licked his lips. “Say it, Lan Er-Gege, and I’ll stop.”           

            Lan Wangji exhaled shakily. His parted his lips to reply, just in time for the waiter to arrive.

            Wei Wuxian, “Hanguang-Jun, order for us, won’t you?”

            Lan Wangji’s manners were far too good. Nothing in his tone or expression indicated anything was amiss. In a smooth, even voice, he read off a series of dishes from the menu. But Wei Wuxian had always been mischievous; mid-word, Wei Wuxian suddenly moved his leg up. However, apart from the way he clenched his fists, Lan Wangji didn’t seem to be affected at all.

            None-the-wiser, the waiter went off to put their order in.

            Wei Wuxian clapped his hands softly. “My, my, I’m impressed, Hanguang-Jun. You truly are worthy of the title.”

            Lan Wangji looked at him. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian moved his leg again, whispering softly, “How is it? Are you hard yet?”

            Lan Wangji’s breath left him in a startled huff. He was at a loss for words, glancing away sharply. His earlobe appeared much darker.

            Wei Wuxian snickered. “I’ve never seen you so flustered, Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji’s chest seemed to be moving faster. After a moment, he breathed, “Shameless!”

            Wei Wuxian hummed thoughtfully. “It’s okay if you’re hard. I am, too.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was so heated that Wei Wuxian’s heart fluttered.

            He wasn’t lying. Heat had been pooling low in his abdomen ever since they’d sat down. Playing with Lan Wangji like this was just too fun.

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying…stop.”

            Wei Wuxian leaned forward more. Lowering his voice, he mused, “You know what I think? I think you like it. If you wanted me to stop, you could make me. But here you are, letting me do such a bad thing to you in such a public place. Who’s more shameless?”

            Lan Wangji grew more flustered. His breath was running faster, his fingers twitching. He opened and closed his mouth, struggling for words. After coming up with nothing, all he could do was reiterate, “Extremely shameless!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed breathily. “Call me gege.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flicked up again.

            Wei Wuxian, “Call me gege, and I’ll be good.”

            It really didn’t seem like Lan Wangji could take much more of his teasing. He looked away, struggling for a moment.

            Wei Wuxian pulled his leg down, and Lan Wangji seemed to relax. But then Wei Wuxian got up and went to the other side of the table, sitting closer to him. He leaned into Lan Wangji’s ear, breathing, “What are you thinking about? I’ll tell you what I’m thinking. I was thinking about what would happen if you pushed everything off this table and fucked me right here.”

            Lan Wangji’s hand suddenly knocked over the teacup.

            Wei Wuxian made a tch sound with his tongue. He rested his hand high on Lan Wangji’s thigh, so close to where he wanted to touch him. “Look what a mess you made.”

            Lan Wangji was quick to clean it up. He gave Wei Wuxian a weighted look. “S-stop.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted a little as he hummed, “Oh, you’re even stammering now? How close are you? If I touched you right now, how long do you think you’d—”

            Lan Wangji had finally reached his limit. He grabbed Wei Wuxian’s hand, pulled him up from the table, and dragged him through the restaurant. Many people saw, but Lan Wangji didn’t seem to notice. He pulled Wei Wuxian upstairs where they had a room, jerked open the door, and slammed it shut behind them.

            Wei Wuxian gave a throaty laugh. “Oh, are you angry, Hanguang-Jun? I love it when you’re—”

            Lan Wangji’s searing kiss cut him off. He tore off Wei Wuxian’s sash belt so hard that it jerked Wei Wuxian forward a step. Wei Wuxian grinned against Lan Wangji’s lips, throwing his arms around his neck. Lan Wangji yanked off his trousers and then lifted him up, slamming him against the wall.

            It was a little harder than Wei Wuxian knew he meant to be, but he wasn’t complaining. He teased, “My good Hanguang-Jun is so worked up.”

            Lan Wangji dropped his head to his shoulder. Barely a second later, he thrusted into Wei Wuxian in one go. Wei Wuxian threw his head back with a loud moan.  

            Lan Wangji immediately covered his mouth, panting at his neck, “Be…be quieter.”

            Wei Wuxian licked at Lan Wangji’s palm. He did nothing to reign in his moans.  

            Lan Wangji entered a brutal pace, both of them far too worked up for anything slower. The force of the thrusts jolted Wei Wuxian, yanking moans out of him beyond his control. Wei Wuxian reached between them, stroking himself in time with Lan Wangji’s rapid pace. It didn’t seem like it would take either of them long at all to finish.

            Lan Wangji bit Wei Wuxian’s neck. Wei Wuxian yelped in surprise; in return, he bit Lan Wangi’s hand. It only seemed to spur him on.

            Wei Wuxian still wasn’t done teasing him, though. He pulled Lan Wangji’s hand away from his mouth, moaning, “You’re fucking me too hard, Lan Zhan. The wall—they’ll hear it.”

            Lan Wangji pulled him off it. They landed on the floor an instant later. His thrusts only grew deeper and steadier with the position, his white robes pooling around them.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered, stroking himself faster. “If only the Lan Sect elders could see you now—”

            Lan Wangji pulled his hand away from his length.

            Wei Wuxian groaned, “Ah, you are angry.” He grinned, tears springing into his eyes. He squeezed them shut, clinging to Lan Wangji’s shoulders for dear life. “Good; fuck me properly, Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji grunted at his neck.

            Wei Wuxian continued to ramble, “Everyone—ngh—everyone down there knows you brought me up here to fuck me. I bet they all know exactly what you’re doing to me right now, Lan Er-Gege. You know what I think? I—ah—I think some of them are getting hard just thinking about—”

            Lan Wangji covered his mouth. “Stop—talking!”

            Wei Wuxian licked his palm again. Muffled, he asked, “Why? Is it too much? Am I gonna make you come just from—”

            Lan Wangji’s pace grew uneven. His hips stuttered, and then he slammed into Wei Wuxian and stilled. A low, long groan slipped from him as he began to thrust languidly through the feeling.

            Wei Wuxian gave a breathy, whiny moan at that. He hadn’t thought he’d really pushed Lan Wangji that far. Pleasure gripped his spine, but it wasn’t quite enough to push him over the edge. His tears slid down his temples as his length throbbed between them. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, please—” He just needed a little bit more.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers were shaking very faintly as he wrapped them around Wei Wuxian’s length. Two strokes were all it took before Wei Wuxian’s back arched. With another throaty moan, he spilled over Lan Wangji’s fingers.

            Wei Wuxian’s hips jerked in time with the pulses as he whined, “Lan Zhan…i-if this was supposed to punish me…it didn’t work.”

            Lan Wangji was still panting at his neck. He shook his head faintly, moving his hand to Wei Wuxian’s waist. “…Shameless…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Me or you?”

            Lan Wangji exhaled heavily. When it came to words, he could never win against Wei Wuxian. After a moment, he slowly pulled back. He lifted to his lips, kissing him deeply enough to make Wei Wuxian moan.

            After they were cleaned up and dressed again, Wei Wuxian fell back against the bed. “Do you think the waiter will still bring us our food? I’m starving, but I don’t have the face to see anyone anymore.”

            Lan Wangji laughed once through his nose, bending down to kiss Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian held him in place, deepening the kiss without effort. He hummed softly. They only parted after several long moments. Lan Wangji knelt by the bed and brushed Wei Wuxian’s hair behind his ear.

            Lan Wangji, “I will go get the food.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “You have the face to do such a thing and then go back downstairs?”

            Lan Wangji gaze was soft. “I do not care.”

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head curiously. “Mm? Don’t care about what?”

            Lan Wangji, “What anyone thinks. Just you.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked and leaned up on one elbow. His heart stuttered. “Is that so?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “…That’s a dangerous thing to tell me, you know.”

            Lan Wangji smiled softly. He kissed Wei Wuxian again. “I will be right back.”

            Wei Wuxian watched him get up and leave, not appearing even the least bit embarrassed or ashamed.

            Wei Wuxian mused to himself, He doesn’t care what anyone thinks, huh?

            Suddenly, he remembered something from after he’d come back. He remembered the time Lan Wangji had been drunk and tied his wrists together with his forehead ribbon. Wei Wuxian had said something like, “It’ll be bad if someone sees us,” and then Lan Wangji had immediately dragged him in front of the juniors and deliberately shown them his tied hands.

            Back when they had been kids, Lan Wangji had always been upright and righteous. As the second young master of the Lan Sect, he’d had to be. He carried the expectations of not only his loving older brother and demanding uncle, but also those of all the elders in his sect who praised his good nature and ascetic ways. Though he had liked Wei Wuxian, he had never shown it, always giving Wei Wuxian a cold face and turning away from him.

            After Wei Wuxian had died and come back, Lan Wangji had indeed been different. He no longer cared about what anyone said; even when Wei Wuxian, pretending to be Mo Xuanyu, had flirted with him so shamelessly in front of the juniors, Lan Wangji hadn’t been offended. He had always stuck by Wei Wuxian’s side, regardless of who was opposite them, be it his uncle or his brother or the entire cultivation world.

            Lan Wangji had had thirteen years to regret not showing how he’d felt; it seemed, one by one, he was making up for that now.

            Wei Wuxian knew he was overthinking when tears sprung into his eyes. It seemed he had overlooked many things. As a kid, he had always thought Lan Wangji was painfully easy to understand. That couldn’t have been further from the truth.

            The door slid open, and Lan Wangji returned with a wide tray piled with many dishes. As soon as he set it down, Wei Wuxian threw himself over.

            Surprised, Lan Wangji caught him. “Wei Ying? What happened?”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “Nothing. Just…love you.” Before Lan Wangji could reply, Wei Wuxian pulled back and wiped his eyes. “What’d you get?! I’m starving.” He sat down hurriedly at the table, picking up his chopsticks.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was as tender as always. He sat beside him, moving food into Wei Wuxian’s bowl.

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s all so spicy. Is it okay for you?”

            Lan Wangji said, “Mm,” but Wei Wuxian paid attention to the dishes he ate from, mostly the milder ones.

            He reached for Lan Wangji’s hand, interlacing their fingers. He didn’t know what to say for once, so instead, he just squeezed Lan Wangji’s fingers and happily ate.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian grinned as soon as he woke up. It was just before five, he realized, because Lan Wangji was still asleep. He rolled over eagerly, admiring Hanguang-Jun’s sleeping face. Without hesitation, he crawled up and over Lan Wangji’s waist, pressing their hips together and kissing Lan Wangji’s neck.

            As expected, it didn’t take long at all for him to wake up. He seemed vaguely confused, humming softly as his fingers rose to Wei Wuxian’s thighs.

            Lan Wangji murmured drowsily, “Mm…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s smile widened. He pressed a hand to the center of Lan Wangji’s chest to feel his heartbeat beginning to increase. He kissed his way to Lan Wangji’s earlobe, taking it lightly between his teeth before he whispered, “Good morning, Lan Zhan,” in the silkiest tone he could manage.

            Lan Wangji turned his head, and Wei Wuxian melted into his kiss. Usually, Lan Wangji was the first to deepen it, but this time, Wei Wuxian beat him to it. His tongue slid against Lan Wangji’s as he began to roll his hips.

            Lan Wangji released a soft sound into the kiss, his fingers tightening.

            Wei Wuxian smiled once more. His skin grew hot as he felt Lan Wangji harden beneath him.

            Lan Wangji swallowed quietly, leaning up to kiss Wei Wuxian even more deeply. Wei Wuxian opened his eyes a slit to see Lan Wangji’s brows had pulled together. He loved it when that happened; it made his beautiful Hanguang-Jun look even more beautiful. He loved how Lan Wangji looked in these moments—on the rare occasions that he had the presence of mind to see it.

            Wei Wuxian increased his pace slowly, relishing the way Lan Wangji felt beneath him. After a moment, he dropped his hands to Lan Wangji’s trousers. Lan Wangji lifted his hips to help take them off, his fingers curling against Wei Wuxian’s thighs in anticipation. Without wasting any time, Wei Wuxian reached for his length. Lan Wangji’s breaths grew shallower, and his kiss became impossibly more fervent.

            Wei Wuxian stroked him languidly. He always marveled at the way Lan Wangji felt in his hands. His own length ached for attention, but he ignored it. As much as he would love to get carried away and spend an hour or two rolling between the sheets with Hanguang-Jun, he had very specific plans for the day, and they couldn’t be ruined by him losing track of time.

            It took every ounce of self-control he possessed to pull away from the kiss. Lan Wangji’s eyes opened slowly. His pupils were dilated, his gaze heated.

            Wei Wuxian melted a little at such a look. He mouthed at his neck again, working his way down reverently. Lan Wangji’s fingers grew tighter as Wei Wuxian’s tongue pressed down with every kiss, first lingering at his chest, and then drifting down his abdomen.

            When Wei Wuxian’s lips appeared low on his hip, Lan Wangji finally realized his intention. He caught Wei Wuxian’s wrist. Though his gaze was searing, the flicker of concern couldn’t be hidden. “Wei Ying, you do not have to do—”

            Wei Wuxian ignored him. Before he could finish, he’d already taken Lan Wangji into his mouth. A quiet groan stole the rest of Lan Wangji’s words as his stomach tensed.

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t found the chance to do this again after that first time in the woods. They’d been entirely too occupied ravishing each other every day in other ways. Although it was only his second time, Wei Wuxian thought he knew better how to make it good. Watching Lan Wangji very closely to gauge his reactions, he hollowed his cheeks and began to work in earnest.

            Lan Wangji’s head fell back on the bed. His eyes closed, his lips parted, and his eyebrows pulled together in pleasure. The sight was almost more than Wei Wuxian could bear; usually, Lan Wangji was fucking him so hard that he could barely think straight, much less open his eyes. He usually didn’t have time to appreciate just how beautiful Lan Wangji looked in these intimate moments. His breath caught, and he felt himself throb. A somewhat muffled moan was pulled from him, and Lan Wangji gripped the blankets with both hands at the vibration.

            Wei Wuxian’s hips were grinding against the bed on their own. He’d forgotten how Lan Wangji had looked that day in the grass. Seeing it again now, excitement rushed through him, making his hands shake. His gaze felt hazy. The weight of Lan Wangji on his tongue and the sounds of his uneven breaths pulled another low sound from Wei Wuxian.

            It wasn’t his intention to come himself, but it seemed imminent now. However, Wei Wuxian had the habit of losing his concentration at such times. Lan Wangji often used this to his advantage, turning the tables whenever Wei Wuxian tried to tease him too much. He knew himself well enough to know that the closer he got, the sloppier of a job he’d do, and that was unacceptable to him.

            Gathering his willpower, Wei Wuxian lifted his hips off the bed and kneeled to avoid any friction.

            Lan Wangji’s chest was heaving now, his expression lost in pleasure. His earlobes had grown faintly pink at the unexpected attention, and his hips twitched as he fought the urge to buck up into that tight, wet heat. His abdominal muscles were taut as his knuckles grew white.

            Wei Wuxian reached up with one hand, and Lan Wangji immediately interlaced their fingers. Wei Wuxian’s other fingers entered a quick rhythm against Lan Wangji as he redoubled his efforts, lavishing Lan Wangji with attention.

            Suddenly, Lan Wangji panted, “Wei…Wei Ying!”

            The stuttered, breathy rendition of his name almost made Wei Wuxian come untouched. He realized it was a warning, but he was ready this time. Still, it was all a bit much. Wei Wuxian’s mind felt fuzzy as his own length throbbed, aching for contact. With hazy eyes, he watched Lan Wangji’s expression grow almost pained. Wei Wuxian’s hips bucked into nothing, seeking friction that wasn’t there. A moan vibrated through him as he squeezed Lan Wangji’s fingers.

            A sharp breath was pulled from Lan Wangji. His hips twitched as his length pulsed. His head fell back, and he grunted out another soft, “Wei Ying!”

            As Wei Wuxian was swallowing his release, the sound of Lan Wangji’s breathless tone tipped him over the edge. Pleasure washed over him in a sharp, unexpected wave. His eyes squeezed shut as his hips thrusted forward instinctively, meeting nothing. His hand fell from Lan Wangji’s length to grab the blanket as came untouched in his trousers. He moaned, the sound faintly surprised.

            Lan Wangji must have seen it and realized what had happened, because, with a groan, he surged up, pulling Wei Wuxian to him. His kiss was beyond searing, and Wei Wuxian whimpered into it. His hips fell against Lan Wangji’s thigh, and he rolled gently against him, still reeling from his own release.

            He knew he probably should’ve been embarrassed; perhaps someone with a thinner face would have been, but he just couldn’t seem to manage it. Such was Lan Wangji’s effect on him, and he wouldn’t apologize for it.

            Wei Wuxian could still taste Lan Wangji on his tongue, which meant Lan Wangji could, too. That thought alone drove Wei Wuxian crazy. He kissed him back as hard as he could, and then, after a moment, made his way down Lan Wangji’s jaw to his ear. He managed to hum softly, “Happy New Year, Lan Zhan,” before Lan Wangji pulled him back to his lips with a quiet groan.

Chapter Text

It seemed like everyone in Lotus Pier had gathered near the docks. Anticipation was thick in the air, everyone laughing and talking animatedly as they waited.

            Dusk had already fallen over the lake. The area was bathed in the warm glow of dozens of lanterns, the light reflecting in everyone’s eyes.

            Wei Wuxian stood towards the back of the crowd with Hanguang-Jun. In the past, eardrums be damned, he had always been at the front of the crowd, chattering loudly with the rest. Tonight, though, he was happy watching from afar. Though Lan Wangji had never intimated as much, Wei Wuxian suspected he wasn’t all that fond of crowds. For someone from a conservative and quiet sect, such a loud, boisterous affair must have been shocking indeed.

            Still, he proved himself very much worthy of his title. Though countless people pushed through the crowd past them, jostling them both more than once, Hanguang-Jun didn’t react at all.

            Wei Wuxian was a bit worried about getting separated from him though, so he latched onto Lan Wangji’s arm, standing close enough that they were practically one person. It seemed to ease a bit of tension in Lan Wangji’s shoulders, too.

            Wei Wuxian wondered over the noise of the crowd, “Where’s Jin Ling? Can you see him?”

            Lan Wangji was a bit taller, so it was easier for him to look over the heads of those passing around them. After scanning for a moment, he looked back at Wei Wuxian and shook his head.

            Wei Wuxian stood on his tippy toes to try to see better. He hopped up and down, but there was still no sign of the boy.

            After a final hop that nearly made him lose his balance, a gruff voice from behind muttered, “What are you doing?”

            Wei Wuxian whipped around to see both Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling approach. Since Jiang Cheng was the one who’d spoken, Wei Wuxian swallowed back his sarcastic comment. “Looking for you two.”

            Jin Ling bore a similar expression to his uncle’s. “Why are we meeting here? It’s so loud.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, “Where’s your sense of excitement?! Even Hanguang-Jun isn’t complaining!”

            Jin Ling snorted through his nose and crossed his arms. He glanced around the crowd unhappily.

            Jiang Cheng was similarly displeased. “We could watch the fireworks just as well from inside. Why did you insist we come out here?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Because it’s more festive!”

            Jin Ling, “Is that what you call it?” He barely got the words out before several people rushed by, knocking him off balance. Angrily, he shouted, “Hey! Watch where you’re going!”

            Wei Wuxian flicked his shoulder. “They’re just kids playing. Why are you acting like an old man all of a sudden? You should be running around, too, you know.”

            Jiang Cheng was used to disagreeing with whatever Wei Wuxian said. Without thinking, he muttered, “Not when he’s a sect leader, he shouldn’t.” He realized how curt it sounded right after, but he didn’t know how to take it back.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Of course, of course. Better to just stand there and brood.”

            Jiang Cheng exhaled sharply but didn’t reply.

            Wei Wuxian supposed the fact that he’d agreed to come at all meant something.

            Jin Ling dodged another bout of children, scowling at Wei Wuxian. He didn’t like crowds, either. “This is stupid. We should just watch from inside.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Shh, it’s gonna start soon.”

            Jin Ling, “What, you won’t be able to hear the fireworks over me talking?”

            Wei Wuxian clung to Lan Wangji’s arm again and turned around.

            Lan Wangji looked down at him with tender eyes. “It is nice.”

            Wei Wuxian knew he was trying to be agreeable to make him feel better. A grin broke across Wei Wuxian’s face, and he laughed. He held Lan Wangji’s arm tighter, looking expectantly into the sky.

            After a moment, someone came to stand beside him. He glanced over to see a sour faced Jin Ling.

            Wei Wuxian used his other arm to shake Jin Ling’s shoulders. “Loosen up, would you?! It’ll be fun! I can’t believe you said you’ve never seen them up close. It’s the best way to watch.”

            Jiang Cheng moved to Jin Ling’s other side, snorting, “So you say. But last time you stood so close, you were deaf for two days.” He only realized what he’d said afterwards. He glanced away but didn’t try to take it back.

            Wei Wuxian hesitated and then laughed. “That was because you’d gotten mad at me and shoved me right where they were setting the fireworks off.”

            The corner of Jiang Cheng’s mouth twitched a little at the memory, but the smile disappeared just as fast. “You deserved it.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Probably.”

            Jin Ling glanced between both uncles. “Why? What’d you do?”

            Wei Wuxian lied swiftly, “I don’t remem—”

            Jiang Cheng, “He took it upon himself to meddle in someone else’s affairs.”

            Wei Wuxian scoffed, “I was trying to help you! It’s not like you were going to talk to her on your own.”

            Jiang Cheng, “A lot of good that did. It took a week to get the smell of liquor out of my clothes.”

            Wei Wuxian, “How was I supposed to know she was already engaged? Would I really have troubled an engaged girl to get you in trouble just out of boredom?”

            Jiang Cheng answered without a flicker of hesitation, “You’d do anything when you’re bored. I think Hanguang-Jun can attest to that.”

            Wei Wuxian jolted. “That is complete and utter nonsense, right, Lan Zh—”

            Lan Wangji was looking straight ahead, but he had a small smile hovering over his lips.

            Wei Wuxian pretended to be angry. “You agree with him?!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was freckled with amusement. “Yes.”

            Wei Wuxian threw his arms around in frustration. “Everyone’s turned against me! Just how can this be?!”

            Jiang Cheng snorted.

            Jin Ling was still glancing between them. “How old were you two then?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I don’t remem—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Fifteen. It was a few months before we went to study at the Cloud Recesses.”

            Jin Ling, “Ah…Then—”

            His question was cut off by a sharp whistle. A trail of smoke shot up into the sky, and then, an instant later, a firework exploded. Bathed in a flash of red, the crowd shouted its approval, and then the show began in earnest.

            Wei Wuxian bounced up on his toes, clinging to Lan Wangji’s arm in his excitement. Over the lake, another firework burst with brilliant force.

            Jin Ling had jumped in surprise at the loud sound. He had always been in Lanling at this time of year and watched the fireworks from the city in the comfort of his own room. Though the crowd was surging and the explosions above were deafening, Jin Ling found himself staring in open awe.

            Wei Wuxian looked at Lan Wangji to see the fireworks reflected in his eyes. “How is it?! It’s fun, right?”

            Lan Wangji glanced down at him, his lips curving softly at the obvious delight in Wei Wuxian’s expression.

            Wei Wuxian turned back hurriedly to the display with a wide grin.

            Bright reds and purples and whites washed over them in intervals, flashing across their eyes.

            Jiang Cheng watched the fireworks for a moment before he looked down. He remembered all too clearly the last time he’d stood on this dock to watch the fireworks. His sister had stood between him and Wei Wuxian, clinging to both of their arms to get them to stop bickering. When he glanced at Jin Ling, he saw the same awed expression she’d had.

            He thought about leaving. He was ready to turn around and head back home, but something about the look on Wei Wuxian’s face stopped him. Wei Wuxian wasn’t watching the fireworks anymore. His gaze had fallen. Jiang Cheng followed it to one of the long halls that extended over the lake—the same long hall he, Jiang Yanli, and Wei Wuxian had spent countless nights talking and laughing and eating lotus pork rib soup.

            For so many years, he’d hated Wei Wuxian. He had blamed everything on him. He had tried to shut away his feelings and view Wei Wuxian only as a careless, reckless person who never considered his actions and didn’t regret the things he did or the consequences they had.

            But seeing the look in his eyes now, that was clearly not true.  

            Jiang Cheng had had thirteen years to think about and come to terms with Jiang Yanli’s death. He wondered if the time had passed similarly for Wei Wuxian, or if it all felt fresh.

            Fireworks continued to explode in the sky. Wei Wuxian’s expression grew far away. As Jiang Cheng watched, Hanguang-Jun happened to glance down at Wei Wuxian. It was clear he recognized the look in Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

            Jiang Cheng had never seen Hanguang-Jun express many emotions, apart from anger, but he watched as concern flitted across the indifferent man’s expression. He leaned closer, murmuring something to Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian shook his head, smiling swiftly.  

            In his original body, such a smile would have been very convincing. Wei Wuxian had often smiled through what he felt. It didn’t matter if it was pain, frustration, or fear. What was more, no one had ever seen through it. Even Jiang Cheng had been fooled by its alleged indifference a few times. But Mo Xuanyu’s face was a little softer, its edges naturally a little more somber. When Wei Wuxian smiled in such a way, it was impossible to hide what he was feeling.

            Jiang Cheng glanced away and saw one of the Jiang Sect’s disciples walking over with two jars of liquor. He grabbed one of them. The disciple was startled but didn’t dare argue.

            Jiang Cheng pulled Jin Ling’s arm.

            Jin Ling complained, “Hey, what are you—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Shut up.”

            Jin Ling huffed and moved, switching places with him. Expressionlessly, Jiang Cheng held up the jar of liquor.

            Wei Wuxian looked at it in surprise. “You—”

            Jiang Cheng held it out further. “Just take it.”

            Wei Wuxian did. “Th…thanks.”

            Jiang Cheng nodded once, slowly. In the past, whether he had truly meant it or not, he had told himself he wanted Wei Wuxian to pay for everything he’d done, for everything that had happened. But seeing the look in Wei Wuxian’s eyes as he pulled the cork off and finished the liquor in just a few gulps, it was plain to see. Wei Wuxian had suffered more than enough.

            Jiang Cheng parted his lips to say something, but a firework exploded in the sky, stealing his words. He faced forward again.

            Wei Wuxian was leaning against Lan Wangji’s side. He held the empty jar of alcohol in one hand. The wine had been good; not as good as Emperor’s Smile, but still good. He almost regretted not saving any for Lan Wangji. He peeked at Jiang Cheng to see him watching the fireworks.

            He repeated, “Thanks.”

            Jiang Cheng nodded again. “Kneeling in gratitude is unnecessary.”

            Wei Wuxian gave a quiet laugh. “Like I’d kneel for you.” He glanced at Jiang Cheng again and then looked down, smiling softly.

            After a moment, he laced his fingers through Lan Wangji’s and turned his head back up to watch the show.

Chapter Text

Lan Sizhui’s eyes were red and puffy. He could barely see through his tears. Though he tried very hard not to make a sound, he couldn’t stop the choked hiccups that broke from his chest. He was running as fast as his little legs could carry him.  

            It was in the middle of the night. He knew he wasn’t supposed to run in the Cloud Recesses at all, especially not after nine, but he couldn’t slow down.

            When he reached the little cottage, he stopped, struggling to calm down. The jingshi’s door was open partway to let in the cool night breeze.

            Inside, Hanguang-Jun was sitting at the guqin table. A small silver bell with a purple tassel lay on the table before him. His long fingers drifted over it slowly. His gaze was very far away.

            Lan Sizhui was young, but he knew he wasn’t supposed to enter other people’s rooms uninvited. Hovering on the doorstep, he cried, “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun!” His voice sounded especially small and scared.

            Lan Wangji looked up as though startled and then hurriedly stood.

            Hanguang-Jun’s expression was usually indifferent to the point of appearing stern, but as he lowered himself to Lan Sizhui’s height, his eyes softened. “What is wrong, Sizhui?”

            Lan Sizhui’s fingers were twisting. Large tears slipped down his cheeks. “I-I-I had another bad dream.”

            Lan Wangji looked down. Lan Sizhui didn’t even have shoes on.

            He stood, picking the child up with him. Slowly, he began to walk him back to his room. “What happened? Do you want to tell me?”

            Sitting on Hanguang-Jun’s arm, Lan Sizhui felt very safe. He nodded furiously, clinging to Lan Wangji’s neck for dear life. Through tears and quiet sobs, he managed to get the story out.

            His dream had been dark and cold. In it, he had been stuck inside a log and couldn’t get out no matter what he tried. Each time he moved, he got stuck in a worse position until he finally couldn’t breathe, and then he’d woken up, gasping for air.

            Lan Wangji’s hands were gentle as he walked him to his bed. He set him down carefully and knelt by the bed to match his height. “It is alright, Sizhui.”

            Lan Sizhui wiped his tears and nodded. He realized he was gripping Hanguang-Jun’s sleeve, but he felt too safe now to let go. Though Lan Wangji never said much, just having him there made the bad dream fade away.

            Lan Wangji looked around the bed and found Lan Sizhui’s favorite small toy rabbit. He handed it to Lan Sizhui, who took it over and hugged it tightly.

            Lan Sizhui sniffed. Slowly, he wondered, “You…you would not let that happen…right, Hanguang-Jun?”

            Lan Wangji used his sleeve to wipe Lan Sizhui’s nose. “No.”

            Lan Sizhui breathed out shakily, relaxing a tiny bit. “C-can…can you stay with me…for a bit?”

            Lan Wangji nodded once. “Do not worry. I am here.”

            Lan Sizhui got back under his blanket. Squeezing the toy, he checked that Hanguang-Jun wasn’t going anywhere and closed his eyes.

            As Lan Sizhui settled down, Lan Wangji looked out the window. In the small garden beyond the juniors' rooms, the flowers were in full bloom. Most of the flowers in the Cloud Recesses were white, but one of the bushes outside was new. Pink peonies bloomed cheerfully even in the moonlight, their petals delicate and soft.

            Lan Wangji stared at them.  

            By the time he looked back at Lan Sizhui, the boy was fast asleep. He pulled the blanket up a bit higher and then closed the door quietly as he left.  

***

In the morning, Lan Sizhui was feeling much better. He barely remembered rushing to Hanguang-Jun, and he certainly didn’t remember the dream that had woken him. He was running around in the sun now, giggling madly as several rabbits chased after him.

            Lan Xichen was watching with a warm expression. “He is adjusting well.”

            Lan Wangji nodded.

            Lan Xichen, “Does he need anything? I am going to Caiyi Town for Shufu. I can get it while I am there.”

            Lan Wangji, “A pellet drum.”

            Lan Xichen was curious. He hadn’t expected such a specific answer. “A pellet drum?”

            Lan Wangji, “He was looking for one yesterday.”

            Lan Xichen smiled, “I will find him one.”

            Lan Sizhui fell in the grass with a shrieking laugh, and the rabbits swarmed him at once. His giggle echoed down the path, but neither Lan Zongzhu nor Hanguang-Jun reminded him to keep his volume low.

            After a moment, Lan Xichen wondered, “Has he had any more dreams?”

            Lan Wangji, “A few. Not as often.”

            Lan Xichen seemed relieved. “That is good.” He raised his hand to Lan Wangji’s shoulder. “Do you need anything?”

            Lan Wangji shook his head.

            Lan Xichen, “Then I will be back soon.”

            Lan Sizhui didn’t notice Lan Xichen leave. He was playing with the rabbits still, petting their soft, furry heads. They surrounded him, hopping lightly and nibbling at the corners of his robes. He giggled again at that. By the time he glanced up, Lan Wangji was alone. A heavy breeze swept through the small field. Lan Wangji’s hair, forehead ribbon, and robes billowed out to one side.

            Lan Sizhui thought he looked sad, so he got up and ran over. “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun! Come play with me, come play with me!”

            Lan Wangji, pulled by the young child, was forced to sit in the middle of the field. Seeing him, the rabbits hurriedly hopped over.

            Lan Sizhui quickly handed him his favorite toy. “Here, here, here!” Whenever he was sad, the toy always made him feel better, so he knew it would work for Hanguang-Jun. For good measure, he picked up a real rabbit, too, and put it in Lan Wangji’s arms. The rabbit looked so comfy that he got another and set it near Lan Wangji’s elbow. He giggled, quite content. Suddenly, he wanted to find out just how many rabbits he could fit.

            Seeing how much fun Lan Sizhui was having, Lan Wangji didn’t move. One by one, the rabbits were placed in his arms or on his lap. Crooking a finger, he rubbed gently at the underside of one rabbit’s chin.

            When Lan Sizhui was finished, he started giggling again. He looked at the proper Hanguang-Jun, whose face was still indifferent, and then at the little pom-poms of rabbits that were lining his arms and legs as he knelt in the grass. Something about the fact that such a serious-looking person had let him play such a silly game made Lan Sizhui laugh and laugh and laugh.

            Lan Wangji’s expression softened a tiny fraction even as his eyes grew sadder. Lan Sizhui had been at Luanzang Hill for only about a year, but it was clear that, no matter how much time had passed since then, the influence of another, more playful soul hadn’t been lost on Lan Sizhui.

            Some children were naturally perceptive, and Lan Sizhui was especially empathic. He saw the look in Lan Wangji’s eyes. His laughter softened, and he tried to think of what to do. Whenever he was sad or scared, Hanguang-Jun sat with him until he felt better. So, Lan Sizhui knelt properly beside Lan Wangji, mimicking his posture exactly.

            Lan Wangji looked down at him. “Is something wrong?”

            Lan Sizhui shook his head, smiling. “I just remembered that I want to be just like you when I grow up, so I am going to practice sitting properly, too.” He raised his hand to begin counting on his fingers. “And I want to have a whole bunch of rabbits, and I want to learn how to play the guqin, and I want to save people, and I want to learn to wield the sword, and...”

            Lan Wangji, “You also want to learn the guqin?”

            Lan Sizhui nodded seriously. “I have seen you play, and it looks very interesting! Jingyi thinks so, as well! Of all the ways to cultivate, apart from the sword, I think it is the best!”

            Lan Wangji, “If you would like to learn, then I will teach you.”

            Lan Sizhui was so excited that he jumped up. “Really?!”

            Lan Wangji, “Yes.”

            Lan Sizhui, “When?!”

            Lan Wangji, “Whenever you are ready to begin.”

            Lan Sizhui, “Now! I am ready now!” He hurriedly began taking rabbits off Lan Wangji, setting them down very gently on the ground. Then, he took Hanguang-Jun’s hand and helped him up.

            Lan Wangji handed him his toy back. “We will go see Shufu to find a guqin you can play.”

            Lan Sizhui nodded very solemnly, mimicking Lan Wangji again. “Yes. Let us go see Shufu to find a guqin I can play.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together in a small smile. He led Lan Sizhui away. Lan Sizhui hurried to keep up, reaching up tentatively to take Lan Wangji’s hand. His own hand was too small, so he could only grasp Lan Wangji’s first two fingers.

            When they reached the Library Pavilion, they found Lan Qiren working at a desk.

            As soon as Lan Sizhui saw his stern face, he felt a little scared. He stepped closer to Hanguang-Jun.

            Lan Qiren looked up. “Wangji.”

            Lan Wangji saluted him respectfully. “Shufu.”

            Lan Sizhui mimicked him. “Shufu.”

            Lan Qiren glanced at the boy, appearing almost amused. “What is it?”

            Lan Wangji, “Sizhui would like to begin practicing the guqin.”

            Lan Qiren nodded, pleased. “I have one that will do. I will have it brought to your room, Sizhui.”

            Lan Sizhui glanced up at Lan Wangji, bouncing a little in his excitement.

            Lan Qiren, “Was there anything else, Wangji?”

            Lan Sizhui watched as Hanguang-Jun shook his head. He straightened his own small back to stand as properly as he could. When Lan Wangji saluted his uncle again and turned around, Lan Sizhui was quick to copy him.

            When they got outside, Lan Wangji glanced down at Lan Sizhui. “We will eat first and then begin your lessons.”

            Lan Sizhui jumped excitedly before he checked his behavior and stood upright. Solemnly, he agreed, “Yes, we will eat first.” Though he was pretending to be an adult, he still sneakily took Lan Wangji’s fingers when they began to walk.

            Many elders passed by them on their walk. A few gave Lan Wangji a long look that he ignored. Lan Sizhui didn’t understand any of it, walking happily by Hanguang-Jun’s side. Lan Wangji chose a slow pace he could easily keep up with. He was so excited about learning the guqin, though, that he forgot he was trying to be proper and started jumping eagerly with every step.

            To his surprise, Lan Wangji didn’t correct his behavior.

            As Lan Sizhui skipped, he was thinking very seriously about how to help Hanguang-Jun not be so sad anymore. He’d given him his favorite toy and put rabbits all around him, and that seemed to make him a little happier, but now what they were walking again, his expression was far away.

            Lan Sizhui was thinking about it so hard that he wasn’t paying attention to where his feet were going. As he came down from one jump, his foot got caught in a small divot in the ground, and his ankle twisted.

            With a yelp, his fingers slipped from Lan Wangji’s loose grasp, and he landed hard on the ground. Tears sprung to his eyes at once from the pain, and his favorite toy bounced away.

            Lan Wangji immediately dropped beside him. “Sizhui? Are you hurt?”

            Lan Sizhui cried very quietly, “My ankle, Hanguang-Jun, my ankle.”

            Lan Wangji checked his ankle. It didn’t appear to be broken or sprained. He reached over to pick up the toy rabbit and gave it back to Lan Sizhui. Seeing the boy’s silent tears, he picked him up and let him sit on his arm.

            Lan Sizhui was quite upset, and his ankle hurt, but he had never been one to throw tantrums or wail. Instead, he clung to both his favorite toy and Hanguang-Jun’s neck, tears running ceaselessly.

            Lan Wangji rubbed his back soothingly and walked slowly. After a while, he saw a familiar figure approach. “Xiongzhang.”

            Lan Xichen stopped close to him, looking worriedly at Lan Sizhui. “What happened? Is he alright?”

            Lan Sizhui sat up in Lan Wangji’s arms, wiping his eyes with his sleeve. “I am okay.”

            Lan Wangji, “He twisted his ankle on the path.”

            Lan Xichen looked at him sympathetically. “Does it hurt?”

            Lan Sizhui sniffled. “A little…”

            Lan Xichen patted his back gently. “Hanguang-Jun asked me to get something for you. Would you like to see it?”

            Lan Sizhui perked up a little, peeking at Lan Wangji curiously before he nodded.

            Lan Xichen produced a small pellet drum, and Lan Sizhui’s face lit up. He gasped and was about to reach for it eagerly when he caught himself. Remembering that it wasn’t polite to snatch things, he waited as patiently as he could.

            Lan Xichen smiled and handed it over. “It is yours.”

            Lan Sizhui accepted it happily. “Thank you, Hanguang-Jun! Thank you, Xichen-ge!” Immediately, he put it between both hands and twirled it back and forth. He giggled at the sound it made.

            Lan Xichen glanced at his younger brother. “Were you two on your way to eat?”

            Lan Wangji nodded.

            Lan Xichen, “I will join you after I see Shufu.”

            Lan Sizhui was still playing with the toy with eager eyes, so Lan Wangji continued to carry him. Several people looked over at the loud sound the rattle drum was making, but since Hanguang-Jun was the one carrying Lan Sizhui, no one dared to remind the child that excessive noise was prohibited in the Cloud Recesses. Still, they were very surprised that Lan Wangji didn’t say something.

            Lan Wangji, “Do you like the pellet drum?”

            Lan Sizhui nodded vigorously. “I do not know why, but I have always liked it!” Hearing such a young child make such a statement was a bit funny. A few people smiled as they passed and heard it.

            Lan Wangji, “I played with it as a child, too.”

            Lan Sizhui looked at him. “You did?!”

            Lan Wangji nodded.

            Lan Sizhui suddenly giggled. It was hard to imagine a young Hanguang-Jun. For a moment, his brain put Hanguang-Jun’s face on child’s body, and he laughed until he had tears in his eyes.

            Lan Wangji didn’t know what had made the boy laugh, of course. But hearing such a carefree sound, he was reminded of another’s laugh. He didn’t tell Lan Sizhui to lower his voice.

            As they walked, Lan Sizhui started playing with the rattle drum again. Lan Wangji listened, his gaze far away.

Chapter Text

When Wei Wuxian’s eyes opened, he was relieved to see it was still dark outside. He wasn’t ready for it to be morning just yet. He wasn’t sure what had woken him up in the first place, but he had every intention of passing out again.

            In his sleep, he’d ended up comically sprawled out. He had the tendency to do that; it should have made sharing a bed with him rather annoying, but Lan Wangji didn’t seem to mind. Sometimes, they would go to bed intertwined and wake up to find Wei Wuxian in some bizarre position.

            Tonight, he was almost completely diagonal on the bed. His head was near the window, his arms and legs tossed in four different directions. One leg was near Lan Wangji’s feet, but the other was draped high across his thighs.

            Wei Wuxian laughed quietly at himself. He sat up, stretching with a quiet grunt. As he was about to cuddle up to Hanguang-Jun again, he heard a somewhat uneven breath come from Lan Wangji.

            Lan Wangji was a very quiet sleeper, so the noise immediately drew Wei Wuxian’s attention.

            Lan Wangji’s expression looked faintly pained. His eyebrows had pulled together, his lips were parted, and there were even beads of sweat slipping down his temples. His fingers twitched at his sides, slowly bunching up the blanket beneath him.

            Wei Wuxian surged forward, kneeling over him. He’d never seen Lan Wangji have a nightmare before, so he really didn’t know what to do. He’d once heard something about not waking a sleepwalker; did that count for bad dreams, too?

            Tentatively, he whispered, “Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to respond to his voice, turning his head in his direction. A stuttered breath escaped him, his eyebrows pulling closer together.

            Wei Wuxian was even more worried. He whispered a bit louder, “Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji suddenly gave a low sound, his fingers clenching the blanket.

            Wei Wuxian froze as a thrill went through his lower abdomen. It was a low sound he was intimately familiar with. He reassessed Lan Wangji’s expression.

            Heat rushed up to his own face. A wicked grin broke as his blood began traveling south. Not a nightmare then…How interesting.

            Wei Wuxian glanced down curiously and bit his lip. Lan Wangi had worn his usual clothes to bed, but the loose trousers did nothing to hide how hard he was. Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan…what are you dreaming about?

            Lan Wangji’s chest was moving faster now. His fingers curled around the blanket more tightly. He breathed a nearly silent, “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted. Even in his sleep, he thinks of me…

            If he hadn’t already been hard, that certainly would have done it.

            He was utterly torn. One wild part of him wanted to wait and watch, to see if Lan Wangji’s dream alone was enough to push him over the edge. The other part of him wanted to wake Lan Wangji and ravish him—or be ravished, as the case may be.

            Wei Wuxian had had his fair share of sex dreams about Lan Wangji and then some, but he’d never seen or heard Lan Wangji having one. Honestly, he hadn’t even really known Lan Wangji dreamed at all. He’d certainly never mentioned any dream to him, neither good nor bad nor anything in between.

            He wished fervently he could see whatever Lan Wangji was seeing. What were they doing? How long had they been at it? How much longer would he last?

            Wei Wuxian’s voice was almost a purr as he mused, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan…who knew you would have such dreams?”

            Lan Wangji reacted to his voice again. His breath fell unevenly, and his fingers twitched.

            Wei Wuxian leaned forward, “Can you hear me, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji uttered his name in a soft whisper.

            Wei Wuxian was so hard it was getting painful. The urge to touch himself was quite strong, but he managed to refrain. Instead, he tilted forward. He crawled over Lan Wangji, placing his knees on either side of his waist and his hands on either side of his head. He lowered his lips to Lan Wangji’s ear, breathing quietly, “Are you having a sex dream about me, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to shudder under him.

            Wei Wuxian’s face felt incredibly warm. Lan Wangji always had this effect on him, making him feel almost drunk. He had a teasing nature, so he decided to see how far he could affect Lan Wangji’s dream. Would talking to him make it more intense? Would it bring him over the edge?

            In a husky voice, he murmured, “Always so good for me, Hanguang-Jun, Lan Er-Gege, Lan Zhan…Look at you, so worked up. Does it feel good?” He leaned closer, giving a soft sound in Lan Wangji’s ear as he whispered, “Do I feel good?”

            Lan Wangji’s breath stuttered out of him in a soft grunt before he repeated, “…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s limbs were shaking. As much as he wanted to play with Lan Wangji more, he just couldn’t wait. He lowered his hips to Lan Wangji’s, exhaling heavily when he felt how hard Hanguang-Jun was. Lan Wangji’s hips instinctively bucked up, grinding their clothed lengths together.

            Wei Wuxian moaned very quietly. He leaned down to kiss Lan Wangji’s neck, rocking slowly against him.

            As expected, it didn’t take any time at all for Lan Wangji to wake up. His breaths grew shallower as he exhaled a slightly confused, “…Wei Ying…?”

            Wei Wuxian rolled his hips down harder. Lan Wangji’s hands rose to his waist as a muffled gasp fell from his lips. Wei Wuxian was already panting, whispering in his ear, “What were you dreaming about that has you so worked up?”

            Lan Wangji’s earlobe darkened as he turned his head to Wei Wuxian. He surged up, his kiss bruising. A groan slipped from him, muffled.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart flipped as his length twitched in surprise. He pulled away after a moment, teasing, “How close did your dream make you?”

            Lan Wangji rolled them over, his hips instinctively grinding against Wei Wuxian’s before he thought better of it. Within seconds, their clothes were gone, and he was sinking into Wei Wuxian’s warmth.

            Wei Wuxian’s moan was muffled by Lan Wangji’s heated kiss. For a moment, Wei Wuxian submitted before he pulled his lips away. He wasn’t done teasing. Breathily, he wondered, “What were you dreaming about?”

            One of Lan Wangji’s hands went under the small of Wei Wuxian’s back. He raised his hips off the bed for a deeper angle and panted, “You. This.”

            Heat gripped Wei Wuxian’s spine. His length lay weeping against his stomach as he groaned. The reply was innocent enough, but coming from Lan Wangji, it somehow felt erotic. Still, when Wei Wuxian regained control of his mind, he teased, “I figured that. What were we doing? Won’t you tell me?”

            He knew Lan Wangji wouldn’t—couldn’t—say it out loud.

            Lan Wangji’s face was hidden at his neck, his thrusts already quick and growing quicker.

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “Well, if you won’t tell me…then I’ll just have to guess until I get it right. What could it have been to make you fuck me as soon as you woke up…”

            Lan Wangji moved his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, his breaths loud in his ear. “Wei Ying…stop…talking…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. He used his legs to pull Lan Wangji deeper, and both of them gasped. “I know…” Wei Wuxian’s thoughts were growing fuzzy, but he forced himself to focus. “I know you like it when I talk like this…even if you won’t admit it. If you can’t tell me what you were dreaming, then let me guess…” He moved closer to Lan Wangji’s ear.

            Breathlessly, he began to talk.

            In a silky voice, he murmured every wild thing he could think of. He started off innocently enough but used colorful language to get his meaning across. As he continued, his thoughts and words grew dirtier.

            Lan Wangji’s arm was shaking as he held Wei Wuxian’s hips up. His thrusts had grown deeper and harder. When Wei Wuxian said something so dirty that even he blushed, Lan Wangji covered his mouth with a trembling hand. Through his teeth, he managed a shaky, “Wei Ying!” It might have been a more effective reprimand had his hips not stuttered.

            Wei Wuxian licked at his palm, moaning a muffled, “Oh…you like that idea, huh?”

            Lan Wangji couldn’t take his teasing any longer. He knew of only one way to get Wei Wuxian to stop talking. He reached between them, past the mess Wei Wuxian had made against his own stomach, and wrapped his fingers around his weeping length.

            Wei Wuxian’s back arched off the bed with a startled cry. He had learned recently that he was especially sensitive and responsive; whenever Lan Wangji touched him, he forgot everything except how to breathe—and even that was iffy.

            Wei Wuxian’s fingers dug into Lan Wangji’s back. Lan Wangji’s thrusts grew harder, hitting relentlessly that spot inside Wei Wuxian as his thumb swept across the head of his length. Tears sprung to Wei Wuxian’s eyes, as they always seemed to.            

            Moaning, he managed a brief, strangled admonishment, “So…cruel…Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji leaned up to kiss him, stealing whatever else he might have said.

            Wei Wuxian’s sounds grew quite pitiful. He reached down to grab Lan Wangji’s wrist, feeling the way his tendons shifted as he stroked him so expertly. His thoughts were jumbled, his limbs shaking. He pressed one foot to the bed, clinging to Lan Wangji with the other leg as he used the leverage to thrust up into Lan Wangji’s fist even more. He broke from Lan Wangji’s lips with a cry. His head rolled back as tears streamed down his temples in pleasure.

            Wei Wuxian could feel Lan Wangji’s heated gaze sweep across his contorted expression, but he couldn’t manage to meet his eyes.

            Lan Wangji panted a nearly strangled, “Wei Ying,” and then his head fell to his shoulder.

            Wei Wuxian’s free hand laced through Lan Wangji’s hair, holding him there. He chanted Lan Wangji’s name, careless of his volume, as he often got at this point. Lan Wangji was too far gone to care if anyone heard.

            Wei Wuxian’s hand gripped Lan Wangji’s wrist so tight he thought he was hurting him. He urged his hand faster, crying a series of pleas along with Lan Wangji’s name.

            Lan Wangji groaned very quietly at his neck. At the same time, his wrist twisted in an upward stroke as his own length brushed against that spot. It was all too much.

            Pleasure went off like an explosion in Wei Wuxian. A broken moan was pulled from him as his hips jerked. He felt rather than heard Lan Wangji’s responding groan vibrate through his chest. His fingers tightened gently around Wei Wuxian, working him through the feeling as Wei Wuxian’s vision flashed white.

            As always, Lan Wangji wasn’t far behind. Panting Wei Wuxian’s name, his hips slammed into Wei Wuxian’s before he stilled. He gave a low, lengthy sound—so rare yet so erotic that it made Wei Wuxian’s softening length twitch feebly—as his hips gave a few more shallow thrusts.  

            When the intensity faded, Lan Wangji slowly lowered their hips and fell against Wei Wuxian. He panted at his neck, hand roving up Wei Wuxian’s side.

            Wei Wuxian was still crying and couldn’t seem to stop. “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji lifted his head and saw Wei Wuxian’s tears. True, he almost always cried and begged in bed, but Lan Wangji still leaned up worriedly. “Wei Ying! Did I hurt you?” He recalled how hard his last thrust had been.

            Wei Wuxian shook his head, trembling. “No, no, no…just…” He laughed breathlessly at himself, too blissed out to even open his eyes. “Just…love you.”

            When Lan Wangji kissed him, there was a soft smile on his lips.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into it. When they parted, he pretended to complain, “Lan Zhan…you always wreck me…I can’t even move…”

            Lan Wangji’s breathy chuckle made Wei Wuxian’s heart flip.

            Wei Wuxian, “The powerful Hanguang-Jun has defeated me once again! The Yiling Laozu is no match!”

            Lan Wangji’s kiss grew even softer, his fingers entering a gentle rhythm on his hip.

            Outside, the sun was rising.

            They knew they had to bathe and get ready for the day, but they stole another minute first. Wei Wuxian’s fingers brushed against Lan Wangji’s jaw as he held him close. The kiss was warm and languid, the heat from earlier replaced by something deeper and more meaningful. When they parted, Lan Wangji gazed at Wei Wuxian so tenderly that Wei Wuxian’s heart melted. When Wei Wuxian spoke, his words were heavy with the emotion churning in his chest. Lan Wangji pressed his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s. When he returned those few words, his tone was even heavier.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian’s fingers were tight around the blanket. He was clenching it so firmly that his knuckles were pale. His eyes were squeezed shut as he trembled in his sleep. Muffled, he breathed, “No…no…” over and over again.

            Lan Wangji had been sleeping soundly beside him. The second he heard his thin whisper in the otherwise silent room, he jolted upright. “Wei Ying?” The moon shone through the window of their room in Lotus Pier. In its glow, Lan Wangji saw the tears streaming down Wei Wuxian’s temples. “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian wouldn’t wake. He continued to whisper, “Please…don’t…”

            Lan Wangji leaned over him, pressing a hand to his face. “Wei Ying! Wake up—”

            Wei Wuxian’s nightmare worsened. As sweat slipped down his skin, his chest began to heave. Panic bled into his tone as he cried louder, “No, no, no! Please!” The shout woke him up. He flew upright, choking on a name. He reached for Chenqing only to find it gone. His eyes grew wild as he frantically searched.

            Lan Wangji hurried, “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian whipped around. Lan Wangji’s expression faltered at the obvious streak of loss in Wei Wuxian’s eyes. “Lan…Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji reached for him. “I am here.”

            Wei Wuxian stared at him for a long moment. He was slow to emerge from the dream. It had all been so real.

            He didn’t like to cry, and so he seldom did. When other people cried in such a way, he found it terrifying. He never quite knew what to say, opting for humor to try to distract them from their sorrow.

            Tonight, though, he couldn’t manage to control it at all. His expression crumpled, and he hung his head.

            Tomorrow, he knew he would feel stupid for this outburst, but in the darkness of the room in Lotus Pier—the room that stood where his childhood bedroom once had, in the rebuilt sect that looked nothing like he remembered, near the docks that sold unfamiliar foods where the lotus seeds weren’t as sweet—it was all too much.

            Weakly, he reached for Lan Wangji and was immediately embraced. Wei Wuxian squeezed his eyes shut. His fingers clutched Lan Wangji’s clothes so tightly that his knuckles hurt. For some reason, he couldn’t manage to loosen his grip.

            Lan Wangji closed his eyes, lowering his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder as he held him.

            Wei Wuxian’s silent cries shook them both. He tried not to make a sound, but the pressure rushed to his head, giving him a migraine. Eventually, he was forced to let loose the ache locked in his chest. A faint, wobbly, “Lan Zhan,” broke from his lips.

            Lan Wangji’s expression changed. He raised his hand to Wei Wuxian’s head. “I am here. Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian should have felt more vulnerable, he supposed. After all, he had never shown this side of himself to anyone, apart from maybe Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli that day when they had reunited in Lotus Pier. But since he’d come back, he hadn’t felt any reason to hide from Lan Wangji. He cried the tears he cried, confessed the things he confessed. With Lan Wangji, in the privacy of their dark room, he felt safe enough to do so.

            It took a long time for Wei Wuxian to regain control. When he was finished, his head ached, and his eyes felt puffy and itchy.

            He wanted to blame the overreaction on being back in Lotus Pier. Though it looked little like the Lotus Pier he had grown up in, being on the same soil again had made those nightmares return. He hadn’t had them in a while; he’d honestly thought he was done with them.

            He sat up from Lan Wangji, wiping his face with his sleeve. He ran his other sleeve down the front of Lan Wangji’s clothes, which he’d stained with his tears. He felt very sorry about it. “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji caught his fingers gently. His implication was clear. It doesn’t matter.

            Wei Wuxian sighed. He crawled to Lan Wangji’s side, leaning against him. Lan Wangji’s fingers entered a soothing rhythm across his back. His other hand rested on Wei Wuxian’s knee, making him feel even safer.

           Wei Wuxian stared at the bedding below them. Crying always made him drowsy. Sometimes when he was this tired, he began to ramble. Quietly, he murmured, “I used to have nightmares sometimes when I was a kid, too. Not very often. I don’t remember having many bad dreams after I was twelve or thirteen. My nightmares were usually small back then, like dogs chasing me up trees. I remember one that bothered me for a long time. In it, no one could see me. I was running around Lotus Pier, crying and begging and jumping in the air, but no one heard me or saw me.” He mocked himself, “I suppose I really was desperate for attention back then. It sounds like a stupid dream, but it bothered me a lot. Shijie…” His voice cracked on the name, and he sighed heavily at himself, forcing his voice to be firmer as he continued. “I don’t think she liked to sing. I don’t remember her singing like some people do when they’re working; I don’t even remember hearing her so much as hum during the day, but…she used to sing to me, when I was little. Whenever I had a bad dream, no matter how stupid it was, she would sit beside me and sing a quiet song. The same melody every time. It must have meant something to her, I suppose. Maybe she heard it somewhere and liked it.” His eyes grew hot again. “Jin Ling never got to hear her lullaby.”

            Lan Wangji closed his eyes. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian pressed his palms into his eyes. He didn’t want to talk about it anymore. “Ugh, my head hurts. Crying always gives me such a headache. How annoying.” Lan Wangji’s fingers captured his. After a moment, Wei Wuxian felt the warm, gentle thread of spiritual energy. He tried halfheartedly to pull his hand away. Lan Wangji didn’t let him. “You don’t need to do that.” But it did feel better.

            Lan Wangji didn’t speak for a very long time. When he did, his voice was barely a whisper. “I should have stood with you.”

            Wei Wuxian closed his eyes briefly. “I wouldn’t have let you. Not at that time.”

            Lan Wangji, “Whether you had let me or not, I should have stood with you.”

            Wei Wuxian could read between the lines. He knew what Lan Wangji meant, but he didn’t want to think about such things.  

            The truth was, Lan Wangji had tried to save him many times. He had tried to bring him to the Cloud Recesses, he had warned him about the cost of the path he was walking, he had told him when he began losing control, he had begged him to stop in Nightless City.

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t listened—couldn’t listen in those days. He had thought he could control it; he had thought nothing would go wrong.

            But that was a lifetime ago for him now.

            Wei Wuxian twisted his hand, interlacing his fingers through Lan Wangji’s slowly. “You’re standing with me now. That’s what matters. We can’t change what happened. I don’t want to spend any more time regretting what we did or didn’t do.” His other hand lifted to Lan Wangji’s back. Even over his clothes, he could feel the raised scars crisscrossing his body. “It’s enough already.”

            Lan Wangji lowered his eyes.

            Wei Wuxian, “Alright?”

            Lan Wangji, “...Alright.”

            Wei Wuxian crawled into his lap so he’d hug him. With Lan Wangji’s arms wrapped tight around him, he breathed more evenly.

            After a while, Lan Wangji whispered, “How did it go?”

            “What?”

            “The lullaby.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled as his vision blurred. “I can’t remember.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian ran through Lotus Pier like he was being chased. Grinning madly, he shouted at the top of his lungs, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!” He nearly knocked over a few people. “Sorry, my fault, my fault—Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!!!”

            Lan Wangji heard him barreling down the path and looked up. He barely had a second to register Wei Wuxian’s intention before Wei Wuxian threw himself at him. Lan Wangji wasn’t as surprised as he might have been a few months ago. He stepped back with the force of Wei Wuxian’s jump but caught him easily.

            Wei Wuxian’s arms were like a vise around his neck. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan! I missed you so much!!!”

            Jin Ling walked up slower behind him, rolling his eyes with emphasis. His cheeks were flushed as people stared at the embracing couple. “…We were only gone two days.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!!!”

            Lan Wangji chuckled once, quietly. His shoulders seemed less tense now that Wei Wuxian back.

            The sound of his soft laugh shocked Jin Ling. He peeked at Hanguang-Jun to see him smiling, his arms just as tight as Wei Wuxian’s. “How was it?”

            Wei Wuxian squeezed him enough to strangle and then dropped back to his feet. Lots of people were openly staring or glancing in their direction, but Wei Wuxian had never cared about such things, and Lan Wangji didn’t seem to, either. “Good! This little brat did well!”

            Jin Ling huffed indignantly. “You—!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “It was a compliment! Now, you should probably go back to your room. I haven’t seen Hanguang-Jun in days. There are some things adults do that kids shouldn’t see.”

            Jin Ling threw his hands up and stormed off, red-faced. “You are so inappropriate!!!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed and took Lan Wangji’s arm, dragging him into their room. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!!! Look what I got!!!” He pushed the door shut with his foot, pulled Lan Wangji to the bed, and crawled into his lap.

            Lan Wangji smiled at his enthusiasm, holding his waist so he didn’t fall.

            Wei Wuxian was struggling to fish something out of his lapels. “Got a little…stuck—here!” He produced a long, red ribbon and held it up. It was cut in the middle, nearly in two pieces. Little more than a thread held it together.

            Lan Wangji looked at it curiously. “This is…?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Jin Ling and I passed through a small village on our night-hunt. They were having this huge celebration; apparently, every year on the fourteenth of this month, they have a festival! Jin Ling and I sort of got swept up in it by mistake, but then I noticed that there were these bizarre, half-cut red ribbons everywhere! I asked a bunch of people about it, and they called it the village’s Red Thread of Destiny! Want to hear about it?!”

            Lan Wangji’s light eyes were tender, mesmerizing at such an impossibly close distance. He smiled and nodded. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Good, because I was going to tell you anyway. A few hundred years or so ago, before the village was founded, a young couple met a mysterious old woman. They weren’t yet married, but they were going to be the next day. She told them she had a way to know for sure if they were destined to be together. She insisted they take a red ribbon that had been nearly snipped in two, bind it around their wrists, and pull it in opposite directions. If the thread snapped, they weren’t meant to be together. If the thread held, they were!” At this point, he began tying one end of the red ribbon around his own wrist. “The reason for this, according to the village girls, is that, in life, there are many ebbs and flows, but a couple that is destined to be together can withstand it all. They won’t be torn apart even when outside forces try to separate them. In the story, the couple agreed to try it. They tied their wrists together and then pulled back in opposite directions; though they both used a lot of strength, the thread held! Those two went on to marry, of course, and founded the village. They had a nice, long, happy life together and had lots and lots of kids, according to the story.” When he was finished with his own wrist, he tied the other end to Lan Wangji’s.

            Wei Wuxian, “When their eldest daughter was about to get married, they decided to use the same red ribbon to test whether she and her fiancé were destined to be together. Since they had lived such a happy life together after trying the ribbon, they wanted to give their daughter the same chance. The elder daughter and her fiancé tried it, and it didn’t snap! The couple got married and also had lots of kids and lived happily! When it was the next eldest’s turn, a boy, they had him and his love test it out. As soon as they tied it around their wrists and pulled, it snapped. The girl was rather upset about this, of course, but it turned out, the boy didn’t want to marry her. He was in love with someone else! When they got another red ribbon, cut it like the original, and tried it out on the boy and his real love, it didn’t snap! So, one thing led to the next, and it became a tradition in this little village to tie a snipped red ribbon around two people’s wrists and see if the last thread would break. If it didn’t, the couple was destined to be together.” He held up his wrist, showing off the tied ribbon. He flashed his eyebrows with a mischievous smile. “How about it? Wanna try?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes had been slowly moving between his while he’d been speaking. Heat pooled in Wei Wuxian’s stomach as he registered the look Lan Wangji was giving him. Slowly, Lan Wangji nodded.

            Wei Wuxian gave a pleased chuckle. “Don’t forget to use your strength, Hanguang-Jun. Let’s see if this red thread knows what it’s talking about.” Without waiting a moment longer, he yanked his own arm back. He was prepared to catch himself because he didn’t really believe such a story. How could such a thin thread withstand such a hard tug?

            To his utter shock, the ribbon didn’t snap.

            Curious, Wei Wuxian jerked his wrist back a second time. The red thread stretched but didn’t snap.

            Wei Wuxian looked up. Lan Wangji was watching him with heavy eyes. His gaze fell slowly to Wei Wuxian’s lips and then rose again. Wei Wuxian felt himself react quickly to such a look. He grinned and scooted closer to Lan Wangji, pressing their hips together. He held Lan Wangji’s face, moving so close that their lips were a paper’s width apart. Lan Wangji tried to close the distance, but he dodged it lightly.  

            Wei Wuxian breathed unevenly, “I guess it’s official. We’re destined to be together, Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips parted, his eyes dilated. For a moment, he seemed at a loss for words. Then, he wondered softly, “Do you really believe such stories?”

            Wei Wuxian brushed his lips as light as a feather past Lan Wangji’s without making any real contact. He whispered back, “Not really.” Wei Wuxian began to move his hips very, very slowly. “But then why didn’t the thread snap?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to his lips again.

            Wei Wuxian’s breathing grew shallower. “We said every day, and now I’ve been gone for two. We have some time to catch up on.” He shifted his hips, grinding just a touch faster against Lan Wangji. “Let’s see if this little red thread can outlast us, hm? We’ll know for sure then.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head minutely.

            Wei Wuxian grinned. The story of the red thread was cheesy and silly, and he knew it. But playing with Lan Wangji was too fun.

            Wei Wuxian’s breaths seemed loud in his own ears. “Last night…I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

            Lan Wangji’s nose brushed against Wei Wuxian’s as he tried to kiss him. Wei Wuxian didn’t let him, smiling. Lan Wangji’s eyes were closed as he breathed a quiet, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian continued, “I couldn’t stop thinking about this. About how you feel, how you taste, how you sound…missed you so much…needed you so much…” He leaned closer, lips ghosting Lan Wangji’s. In a whisper, he teased, “My own fingers don’t feel as good.”

            Lan Wangji surged forward. His kiss was almost punishing. His fingers kneaded Wei Wuxian’s hips before sliding further down his thighs.

            Wei Wuxian pressed a hand to Lan Wangji’s chest, pushing him back against the bed. He felt how rapidly Hanguang-Jun’s heart was beating. Lan Wangji deepened the kiss, a low sound pulled from him as his tongue brushed against Wei Wuxian’s.

            Wei Wuxian continued to press their hips together. The red ribbon remained tied around their wrists, and he smiled. He parted from Lan Wangji by a centimeter to pant, “Keep the ribbon on. I want to be bound to you.”

            Lan Wangji surged up again. His kiss was bruising as he rolled them over. Within seconds, most of their clothes were gone. It was hard to undress completely with the ribbon around their wrists, but neither seemed to care.

            Lan Wangji broke from the kiss, gazing at him almost drunkenly. In a soft voice, he murmured, “Missed you.”

            Wei Wuxian’s breaths fell unevenly from swollen lips. He smiled in surprise at the statement. Still, he teased, “Prove it.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched, and then he was kissing him again. Wei Wuxian moaned against his mouth, wrapping his arms tight around his shoulders. Between them, he felt Lan Wangji retrieve a small bottle. The slippery sound of its contents made Wei Wuxian whimper in anticipation.

            After a moment, Lan Wangji’s slick fingers appeared low on his body. Wei Wuxian arched into his touch, panting as Lan Wangji prepped him. Lan Wangji’s kiss was feverish, but his long fingers were as delicate as when he played the guqin. He worked slowly, gently. One finger, then two, then three. Wei Wuxian’s skin was beaded with sweat as he clung to Lan Wangji. His length lay weeping and twitching against his stomach, even more so when Lan Wangji brushed against the spot inside him that always made him cry out.

            Wei Wuxian broke from Lan Wangji’s mouth. Tears were already in his eyes, and they’d barely begun. He forgot to tease Lan Wangji, instead pleading, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji kissed and nipped at his neck. Slowly, he removed his slick fingers and lowered his hips. Wei Wuxian threw his legs around his waist, trying to encourage him to move faster, but Lan Wangji seemed intent on taking his time.

            When he pushed into him, it was slow, deliberate. Wei Wuxian panted, his expression twisting, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s hips pressed fully against his, but then Lan Wangji stopped. He leaned up to kiss Wei Wuxian, his fingers brushing tenderly against his jaw. Wei Wuxian’s tears hadn’t stopped yet, and they didn’t seem likely to any time soon. He clung to Lan Wangji, breathless and impatient. As if to remind Lan Wangji to move, he clenched his walls around him. But apart from a stuttered breath, Lan Wangji didn’t react.

            His hands found both of Wei Wuxian’s. He interlaced their fingers and raised their hands over Wei Wuxian’s head on the bed.

            Wei Wuxian recognized the position and realized his intention. He gasped in delight, deepening the kiss even more. His legs inched higher up Lan Wangji’s waist.

            When Lan Wangji finally began to move, he chose a languid pace.

            Wei Wuxian squeezed his fingers. After a moment, Lan Wangji pulled from the kiss, making his way gradually down Wei Wuxian’s neck.

            Wei Wuxian bared it for more contact, breathing his name ceaselessly.

            Lan Wangji lowered to his ear, murmuring softly, “Tell me when it is too much.”

            Goosebumps rose across Wei Wuxian’s entire body. He knew what Lan Wangji meant, Tell me when you’re close.

            Wei Wuxian moaned and nodded dizzily. His limbs were shaking. He loved this game they played, edging him until he was a crying, pleading mess. They hadn’t played it in a while.  

            Lan Wangji released one of his hands, but the hands that were tied together remained intertwined. His other hand drifted across Wei Wuxian’s body unhurriedly on its path to his length. Wei Wuxian inhaled sharply when he felt Lan Wangji’s long fingers close around him. Lan Wangji’s rhythm matched his thrusts. It wasn’t fast, but it didn’t need to be when he knew every way to take Wei Wuxian apart in the least amount of time.

            Within what felt like mere seconds, Wei Wuxian was rolling his head back, arching up to meet Lan Wangji’s fingers. He parted his lips to breathe, trying to focus. Lan Wangji’s tongue pressed down against his skin, soothing over a spot he’d lightly bitten. Wei Wuxian was already a mess, both literally and figuratively, and they had only just started.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers were too clever. After only a few more seconds of his care, Wei Wuxian gasped as pleasure rushed up his body. He reached down to grab his wrist in warning, squeezing his other fingers for dear life. “Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji hummed and removed his fingers, trailing them up his side.

            Wei Wuxian’s length gave a pitiful twitch. Wei Wuxian’s breaths stuttered as he slowly backed away from the edge. He panted Lan Wangji’s name over and over again, alternating variations of it.

            Lan Wangji murmured his name in return.

            It sounded so close to praise that Wei Wuxian shuddered.

            It took him a moment to regain control, and then he nodded faintly, letting Lan Wangji know he was ready again.

            Lan Wangji lifted his head to kiss him languorously as he found his length once more. His fingers chose a tighter, slightly quicker pace. Wei Wuxian’s hips bucked up, and he moaned.

            Time became something of a blur. 

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t say with clarity how long it had been since they had begun. After a while, his thoughts were too muddled to think clearly. The sun outside had shifted overhead by quite a distance, but Wei Wuxian couldn’t concentrate on such things. All he knew was it was painful now. The need to come was thrumming under his skin, making his limbs shake, his length twitch, his body ache. Lan Wangji was still moving impossibly slowly, and Wei Wuxian couldn’t take it anymore.

            Tears streaming, his fingers digging into Lan Wangji’s arm, he rambled, “Please, please, please, Lan Zhan, Hanguang-Jun, please, let me—I need to—faster—”

            Lan Wangji’s stamina truly was torturously incredible. Wei Wuxian reckoned he could go all day and all night. He didn’t know if that was truly possible, but it certainly seemed like it was.

            Lan Wangji hummed softly against his skin, quietly lost in his own pleasure.

            Wei Wuxian was trembling. “Please, Hanguang-Jun, Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege, please…t-the Yiling Laozu is no match!”

            Lan Wangji leaned up to kiss him.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into it. Sweat dripped from both of them from the strain. After a moment, Lan Wangji’s fingers returned to his length. He entered into another slow pace. Wei Wuxian broke from his kiss, crying, “Lan Zhan, please, please, I can’t—I need—please—”

            Lan Wangji kissed down his neck. He didn’t say a word, but he nodded his head slightly.

            Wei Wuxian realized what that meant, and relief surged through him, but Lan Wangji’s fingers didn’t speed up.

            Wei Wuxian was writhing. His expression contorted with the mix of pain and pleasure. Being so close for so long had made everything more intense. Every stroke of Lan Wangji’s fingers, every brush of his thumb, every languid thrust felt like fire across his skin. He was exhausted and desperate and couldn’t stop crying.

            Wei Wuxian, “Please, please, faster, Lan Zhan, please, I need—” He tried to buck his hips up, but Lan Wangji stopped him. A strangled sound leaked from Wei Wuxian’s throat, urgent in its frustration. He repeated Lan Wangji’s name on a loop.

            Lan Wangji heard him but didn’t speed up. Logically, Wei Wuxian knew why. The slower Lan Wangji was, the better it would feel, but he couldn’t stop begging.

            Wei Wuxian was even more sensitive than usual. It didn’t take long for him to reach the edge. He gasped, a thrill running through him as it built. Like lightning under his skin, it sizzled and cracked, threatening to go off at any moment. His breaths burst out of him, desperation making his hips rock. He lifted his head off the bed, chasing that release with urgency. “Yes, yes, Lan Zhan, please, I’m almost—so close—please, yes, please, please—L-Lan Zhan!!!”

            White-hot pleasure exploded within him with violent force. He didn’t so much reach the edge as hurtle over it. A pitifully long series of sounds broke from him as he finally, finally came. His fingers on Lan Wangji’s clamped down painfully. His back arched, his head slammed back onto the pillow, his hips jerked—and he couldn’t say for certainty what happened after that. All his senses felt blocked, narrowing in on the blinding pulse of his length, the perfect grip of Lan Wangji’s fingers, and the breathy sound Lan Wangji made at his neck.

            He vaguely felt Lan Wangji manage a final thrust, dimly recalled the low Wei Ying Lan Wangji groaned, and hazily felt Lan Wangji’s fingers tighten on his as he followed him over the edge.

            For a long moment, everything felt fuzzy. As the pleasure fell away, exhaustion took its place, and he fell back to the bed. His breaths were heaving, his skin was sweaty, and his vision was blurry. He whimpered Lan Wangji’s name, too blissed out to even register how wrecked he sounded. Lan Wangji lifted a hand to his cheek, kissing him with the same slow, languid pace as everything else. The fact that he groaned into it made Wei Wuxian’s heart flip and his softened length give a last, feeble twitch, but he was completely and utterly spent.

            For a quite a while, Wei Wuxian couldn’t think, couldn’t move, couldn’t do anything but kiss Lan Wangji back, and that part mostly Lan Wangji’s work.

            As he slowly regained awareness, his realized his fingers were still squeezing the ever-living life out of Lan Wangji’s. They hurt as he pried them open again. He glanced up and saw the red ribbon still tied around both of their wrists.

            He grinned. “I knew it was a good idea to bring a ribbon back with me.”

            Lan Wangji’s chuckle was soft and breathless. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian moved his lips to Lan Wangji’s temple, closing his eyes. He could feel Lan Wangji’s heart beating in time with his. “Love you.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers gently tightened around his. “Every day.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian was watching Lan Wangji work, one hand propped under his head on the pillow. He was supposed to be sleeping; Lan Wangji thought he was.

            Lan Wangji was reading a long letter from his uncle. His expression didn’t seem too bad, though, fortunately. Hopefully, that meant it was just an update.  

            Wei Wuxian waited for a long time, and then he started sighing audibly.

            Lan Wangji glanced up and noticed his gaze. Softly, he wondered, “What is it? I thought you were tired.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I was. I can’t sleep.” He put on a fake pout to make Lan Wangji smile.

            It worked. Giving him a tender look, Lan Wangji checked, “Is the candle too bright?”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “No…I’m cold.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together. It wasn’t cold in Lotus Pier; it never was. He exhaled softly through his nose, the sound faintly amused now that he knew what Wei Wuxian wanted. He put his papers aside and blew out the candle.

            Wei Wuxian pretended to lament, “Oh…no…don’t do that…”

            Lan Wangji got into bed with him.

            Delighted by his easy victory, Wei Wuxian moved Lan Wangji’s arm, pressed himself against his side, and rested his head against his chest. “Ah, much warmer. If that tactic didn’t work, I had many others up my sleeve…”

            A soft laugh sounded through Lan Wangji’s nose. “…Wuliao.”

            Wei Wuxian giggled quietly. “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan. You haven’t used that one on me in ages! I was afraid you’d forgotten the word.”

            Lan Wangji kissed his hair. “Sleep now.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled in the darkness. “But I’m not tired anymore.”

            Lan Wangji, “It is late. You need your rest before the night-hunt tomorrow.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded in agreement. “Mm. I can’t wait to see A-Yuan and Jingyi again. It’s been a long time. Jin Ling is excited, as well. He likes them; even though he tries to hide it, it’s obvious. And they like him, too.”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. It is good for them to be around each other, then.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “It is. I wonder how much A-Yuan has improved. He learns so quickly. His qin language has gotten better, too. He’s very much like you now.”

            Lan Wangji, “He is also like you.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Pfft, no, no, no, he has none of my wildness. He only has your righteousness and integrity. He’s a very good, polite boy now, very kind and soft-spoken.”

            Lan Wangji was quiet for a moment. “When he was young, he was a bit wild. He has always been quiet and respectful, even as a child. But sometimes, when he was very young, he was a little more carefree. His laugh was…very much like yours.”

            Wei Wuxian pulled his head up, resting his chin on Lan Wangji’s chest to meet his eyes. “Really?”

            Lan Wangji nodded. “Really. The rabbits liked to follow him around. He would run and play with them. He often laughed so loud, Shufu would reprimand him.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed thoughtfully. Excessive noise is prohibited in the Cloud Recesses, after all. Of course Lan Laotou wouldn’t allow such boisterous fun to go unchecked. Then again…Hanguang-Jun was always a stickler for the rules, too, especially in those days. Aloud, he wondered, “Your uncle reprimanded him? …You didn’t?”

            Lan Wangji looked down. “No.”

            Wei Wuxian burst, “Oho! How Lan Zhan changed after—” He stopped short, realizing it actually wasn’t funny at all. He said A-Yuan’s laugh was like mine. Does that mean he didn’t reprimand him because he couldn’t bear to…? “Oh…Lan Zhan…” He leaned up and kissed the corner of Lan Wangji’s mouth before hugging him tight. When he settled back down, Lan Wangji’s fingers entered a delicate rhythm on his back. It was soothing and gentle, making Wei Wuxian’s eyelashes flutter. “Mm…feels good. Tell me something else about when A-Yuan was young. I missed so much.”

            Lan Wangji was quiet for a moment. “When he was six, he decided he wanted to be as diligent in his studies as possible. He began following me around and seemed to be making a mental note of everything I did. Later, I would find him pretending to do the same thing in his room, holding similar conversations with his toys and practicing meditation by himself.”

            Wei Wuxian broke with an “Aww,” and drew shapeless lines over Lan Wangji’s clothes. “He wanted to be like just like Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji’s voice had a smile in it as he continued. “At that age, he would mimic me or Xiongzhang, repeating what we said in the same tone.” At Wei Wuxian’s laugh, Lan Wangji turned and kissed his forehead, as though absentminded. “It was clear, though, that he remembered you. He was very sick for a long time and could not remember the details, but…you were there in his thoughts and actions, even though he did not realize it.”

            Wei Wuxian whispered, “How so?”

            Lan Wangji, “He would often hum the tune to one of the melodies you used to play with Chenqing. He renamed one of the rabbits Xian, often called it Xianxian, though he did not seem to know why he picked the name. When he was twelve, I took him and Jingyi on a night-hunt to practice. The inn we stayed at served many spicy dishes; he did not mean to order one. When he tried it by accident, he said it tasted familiar, though he could not explain why. Some of his mannerisms were like yours; even in such a short period of time, you left an imprint on him he could not shake off.”

            A tear slipped across the bridge of Wei Wuxian’s nose and fell silently to Lan Wangji’s robes. “…That’s…” For once, he was at a loss for words. “I wouldn’t have thought I’d…have such an impact on him. He was only a baby when I…” He closed his eyes, remembering the brand at Lan Wangji’s chest and Lan Xichen’s words in the Guanyin Temple. “It must have been hard for you, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji admitted softly, “At first.” With his free hand, he interlaced their fingers. “But as he grew older and those parts of his personality matured…”

            He didn’t finish, but he didn’t need to. Wei Wuxian understood. It must have felt like I was fading away again.

            After a moment, Lan Wangji murmured, “I can tell you of his first night-hunt if you would like.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded quickly, sniffing. “Tell me, tell me!”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers continued their soothing path on his back as he began.

            As he spoke, Wei Wuxian felt his voice vibrate softly in his chest with every word. He smiled and laughed and cheered throughout the story. Some deep-down part of him wanted to regret what he had missed, but he made an effort to ignore it; he didn’t want to think about it that way. He was lucky to have been given another chance, to be able to reunite with Lan Wangji and share this life with him; he was fortunate to be able to find Lan Sizhui, Jin Ling, Jiang Cheng, and even Lan Jingyi and form the bizarre, mismatched, bickering family he had with them. He didn’t want to waste time regretting the past or mourning what he had lost. He had gained a lot, too.

            By the time Lan Wangji finished the story, Wei Wuxian was drifting. He hummed, fighting to keep his eyes open.

            Voice gentle, Lan Wangji whispered, “Sleep now.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed again, losing the battle. After only a moment, his breathing evened out, and he grew limp against Lan Wangji.

            Lan Wangji pulled the blanket over them. He glanced down at Wei Wuxian, whose eyes had fallen shut and whose smile still lingered, even in sleep. Lan Wangji’s thumb traced the lower line of that smile. He pressed his lips against Wei Wuxian’s forehead once more, held him tighter, and fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling was bored.

            He’d been playing outside all day, but there were only so many times he could smack the same deadly tree with the same wooden sword or pretend to hunt menacing measuring snakes in the tall grasses near one of the many lotus lakes. Which was difficult to do, because whenever he got too close to the edge, some random woman would always come over, drag him away from the water, and scold him about playing near lakes before storming off.

            Of course, Jin Ling hated that more than anything. He didn’t like being told what to do, and he especially didn’t like people he didn’t know picking him up and admonishing him.

            He huffed and kicked at the ground. Lotus Pier was boring. He had nothing to do, nowhere to go, and no one to play with—not that he cared about the last part. He didn’t want to play with a bunch of crybabies anyway. The last time they’d played together, Jin Ling had accidently smacked their fingers with his wooden sword, and they had screamed and wailed, not even letting him apologize before an adult came over and scolded him.

            Jin Ling thought about playing near the lake anyway. Often, the vendors there would recognize him as Jiang Cheng’s nephew and give him free food. But he wasn’t hungry, he was bored. Instead of heading that way, he went back to Sword Hall, kicking, smacking, and glaring at everything he passed.

            Inside, Jiang Cheng was talking with several unfamiliar cultivators about something dull. Jin Ling walked over, expecting Jiang Cheng to stop what he was doing and pay attention to him.

            Outrageously, Jiang Cheng didn’t.

            Jin Ling, “Jiujiu.”

            Jiang Cheng didn’t reply.

            Jin Ling tugged at his robes. “Jiujiu!”

            Not even a glance.

            Jin Ling kicked his leg. “Jiujiu!”

            Jiang Cheng completely ignored him, talking rather seriously with the cultivators.

            Jin Ling whacked his sword against the wooden pillars inside the room.

            Jiang Cheng finally looked at him. “A-Ling, stop.”

            Jin Ling continued to hit the pillars. “I’m bored. Come play with me.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Not right now, A-Ling. I’m busy. Go play outside.”

            Jin Ling, “I already did! It’s boring out there! Come play with me. I want to practice with the bow again.” He liked working on his archery skills, but his uncle had said he was too young to do it unsupervised.

            Jiang Cheng, “I said not right now. Go outside and play or sit down quietly until we’re finished.”

            Jin Ling huffed indignantly. He started smacking his wooden blade harder against the pillars.  

            Jiang Cheng took the sword away. “Not listening to me anymore? Go outside, A-Ling.”

            Jin Ling tried to take the sword back. When he didn’t succeed, he resorted to pushing at his uncle’s waist to vent his frustration. “I don’t want to go outside! It’s boring! You said you’d play with me today!”

            Jiang Cheng’s eyes flashed with anger at his petulance, but before he could speak, someone else did.

            One of the cultivators had been growing impatient with the interruption. He didn’t care for kids. He was from neither the Jiang Sect nor the Jin Sect and didn’t have the time for a spoiled young master in glittering robes. Unaware of who, exactly, the kid was, he barked, “You were told to wait outside by your senior!” The shout alone was enough to bring startled tears to a frozen Jin Ling’s eyes. “Did your mother teach you nothing of—”

            Jin Ling started crying at the same time that Zidian flashed. Jiang Cheng backhanded the man—hard. He fell to the ground, so shocked that he wasn’t even angry. The other cultivators grew deadly silent. Jiang Cheng stroked Zidian, returning it to ring form, but the lightning had yet to fade from his eyes. “Get out.”

            The man’s eyes widened at his tone. Though quiet, his words were obviously a warning.

            The other cultivators made a point of not looking at him or Jiang Cheng or Jin Ling, instead admiring the fascinating architecture of Sword Hall.  

            Jin Ling had begun to wail. Not only was he embarrassed and upset that someone had yelled so harshly at him, but also that the man had brought up his mother.

            Jiang Cheng picked him up, letting him sit on his arm as he repeated in an icy tone, “Get out.”

            The man glanced at the kid, recognition and horror settling over him. He realized he was lucky he hadn’t been charred to a crisp already. He backpedaled swiftly, exiting Sword Hall.

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the others. “We’re done for the day.”

            The cultivators were quick to salute. “Jiang Zongzhu!” They hurried away before they became the next target.

            Jin Ling didn’t cling to his uncle like some children might have, but he was still crying.

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the servants waiting in the hall. “Leave us.”

            They were quick to go, and then the hall was empty.

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the crying child in his arms. “You should have left when I told you to.”

            Jin Ling was so angry that he stopped crying, trying to push away from his uncle.

            Jiang Cheng, “Don’t hit me. Stop crying.” He used a handkerchief to clear Jin Ling’s nose and wipe his cheeks.

            Jin Ling complained, “I just wanted to play with you!”

            Jiang Cheng, “And I said I was busy.” But he didn’t put him down. He carried him out into the sunshine.

            Jin Ling wiped his face with his sleeve. “I don’t want to play with you anymore. You’re being mean.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Too bad. You ended my meeting early.”

            Jin Ling kicked his legs. “Put me down! I can walk on my own!”

            Jiang Cheng, “If I put you down, you’ll run away.”

            Jin Ling scowled furiously. That was exactly what he’d planned on doing.

            Jiang Cheng shook his head and muttered gruffly, “You’re five years old already. You need to stop acting like a baby, crossing your arms like that and stamping your feet when you don’t get what you want.” But his touch was gentle as he wiped a stray tear off Jin Ling’s chin with the back of his hand.

            Jin Ling looked away from him, as if he could neither see nor hear him.

            Jiang Cheng, “Ignoring me now?”

            Jin Ling huffed.

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. “You really are a brat sometimes.”

            Jin Ling mumbled, “You’re the one who is a brat…”

            Jiang Cheng stopped walking. “What did you say? Is this how you talk to your uncle now?”

            Jin Ling glanced sideways at him. “You started it.”

            Jiang Cheng looked away and started walking again. “If you say something like that again, I’ll break your legs. You need to show respect to your elders, which includes me. No, especially me. I’m the one raising you and dealing with your attitude all day.”           

            Jin Ling complained, “Shushu doesn’t treat me like this, and he raises me, too!”

            Jiang Cheng didn’t like being compared to others. “Oh? You want to stay in Lanling all year, then? Fine by me. I’ll take you there right now.”

            Jin Ling scowled and kicked Jiang Cheng, but he suddenly worried he might do such a thing. In a small voice, he mumbled, “I…I want to be here, too. Don’t send me away, Jiujiu.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I will if you continue to behave like this.”

            Jin Ling, “I didn’t mean…I just meant…you said you’d play with me, and then you didn’t.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Well, I’m taking now, aren’t I? Don’t sulk. If you act like a baby, I’ll treat you like one. I told you I was busy. I don’t have time to roll around in the grass all day; I have responsibilities.”

            Jin Ling hit him with his shoe. “Then why did you say you would play?!”

            Jiang Cheng, “Kick me again, see what happens.” He stopped when they reached the training field and put Jin Ling down. “Wait there. I’ll get the arrows.”

            Jin Ling watched him work for a moment. “Jiujiu…”

            Jiang Cheng glanced at him as he readied a small bow. “What.” His tone was too gruff for it to sound like a question.

            Jin Ling was used to it, though. “Why don’t you ever let me play with kites? The other kids shoot at kites; I want to try that!”

            Jiang Cheng looked across the field, his expression difficult to read. “They can shoot at kites all they want. I can keep a better eye on you here.”

            Jin Ling pouted, “But shooting kites looks more fun!”

            Jiang Cheng, “I don’t care. You’re training, not playing.”

            Jin Ling, “But it’s hard to shoot a kite! It would be better for—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Take the bow and start, or I’m taking you back to your room.”

            Jin Ling scowled and wrenched the bow away.

            Jiang Cheng, “Don’t snatch things. Stop being such a brat. You wanted to practice, so we’re practicing. You’ve gotten what you wanted.”

            Jin Ling frowned as he took an arrow from the quiver his uncle held.

            For the rest of the afternoon, Jiang Cheng stood beside Jin Ling as he practiced. He corrected his posture, retrieved his arrows, and gave him advice.

            By the time the sun was beginning its descent, Jin Ling was worn out but content. He’d shot dozens of arrows, and only a few of them had missed the target.

            Jiang Cheng didn’t say whether he’d done well as he put the bow and arrows away. “It’s time to eat.”

            Their walk back was quiet. Jin Ling kept pace with his uncle, appearing deep in thought for a five-year-old.

            Jiang Cheng glanced down at him. “What are you thinking about?” He meant it to sound like a question, but it came out more like a demand.

            Jin Ling shrugged. “Nothing.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Fine.”

            Jin Ling peeked up at him. “Can…I ask you something, Jiujiu?”

            “What.”

            “Yesterday…”

            “What, A-Ling.”

            “Yesterday…why did you get so mad at me when I went into the treasure room?”

            Jiang Cheng looked away. He knew he had overreacted and had felt quite sorry for it afterwards. Still, he didn’t apologize. “Because you don’t need to be in there. The objects in there are either dangerous or valuable.”

            Jin Ling, “But I didn’t touch anything! I only wanted to look at the flute—”

            Jiang Cheng interrupted gruffly, “Don’t go in there again, and I won’t yell at you.”

            Jin Ling, “But—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Enough, A-Ling. Stop arguing with everything I say. One more ‘but,’ and I’m sending you to your room without dinner.”

            Jin Ling sighed but stopped trying to argue. His uncle had said such things to him before; he knew he didn’t mean it, but he didn’t press him anymore.

            Dinner was as quiet an affair as always. His uncle didn’t talk much, other than to remind him not to play with his food, and then it was time for bed.

            Jin Ling was quite tired after a long day of playing and training.

            Luckily, Jiang Cheng didn’t make him walk. He picked him up and carried him to his room, which seemed like a very long walk to Jin Ling. He was slumped over his uncle’s shoulder the whole time, half-asleep.

           Many people saw Jiang Zongzhu carrying the child and saluted him respectfully. He returned their greetings with indifferent nods. Several people couldn’t help silently remarking on the way Jiang Cheng was with the child. Though his expression appeared to be as cold as it always was, the way he carried Jin Ling was gentle. Still, having a sleeping child resting against him did nothing to diminish how terrifying he could be, and so no one stared for long.

            Jiang Cheng helped get Jin Ling get ready for bed and put him under the covers.

            He was about to leave unceremoniously when Jin Ling called out to him.  

            Jiang Cheng half-turned. “What.”

            Jin Ling played with the end of his blanket. “I…I’m not tired.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You were asleep the whole way here.”

            Jin Ling, “Well, I’m not tired. Can you…can you tell me a story?”

            Jiang Cheng, “I don’t know how to tell stories. Remember last time?”

            Jin Ling, “But…Shushu always tells—”

            Jiang Cheng, “Stop comparing people. Your other uncle is his own person, and I am mine. Good night.”

            Jin Ling sat up in bed. “W-w-wait!”

            Jiang Cheng turned again. “What.”

            Jin Ling, “Wh…what if I…have another bad dream?”

            Jiang Cheng looked at him for a moment. “Then you come get me.”

            Jin Ling, “Can’t…can’t I just sleep with you?”

            Jiang Cheng, “No, A-Ling. I already told you. You’re too old to keep doing that.”

            Jin Ling, “But…”

            Jiang Cheng sighed heavily and walked back into the room. “Fine. I’ll stay with you until you fall asleep. Good enough?”

            Jin Ling bit the inside of his cheek and then nodded. “Okay.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Lie down then. I don’t have all night.”

            Jin Ling fell back and pulled his blanket up.

            Jiang Cheng picked up a toy dog off the floor and silently handed it to him as he sat on the edge of the bed.

            Jin Ling held the toy tight. “Good night, Jiujiu.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Good night.”

            He was looking out the window, but as he heard Jin Ling’s breathing gradually even out, he glanced down again.

            Jiang Cheng knew the boy had inherited many of his father’s features, but when he was asleep, the harder edges of his young face smoothed out. The scowls and glares faded away, and all Jiang Cheng could see was Jiang Yanli. He lifted a hand, stroking Jin Ling’s head once. His gaze rose to the window, to the lotus lake that could be seen between the buildings and the glittering stars in the sky.

            For a long moment, Jiang Cheng was filled with a profound sense of regret. He knew he wasn’t doing a good enough job. This was his sister’s child, yet he treated him like he would someone else’s kid. But it was hard. It was hard to see the same emotions and expressions of his sister play out on a younger face. It was hard to be asked questions about her, to have to explain why she wasn’t around. It was hard to hear the careless words others said, to see the look in Jin Ling’s eyes when they disparaged him or his parents for his misbehavior.  

            It was hard when Jin Ling woke crying in the middle of the night for someone who wasn’t there.

            Jiang Cheng looked at Jin Ling as he slept. He regretted the stupid things he’d said that day, about sending him away. The truth was, he wouldn’t have been able to bear that. Almost soundlessly, he whispered, “I’m sorry.” He didn’t know who he was more apologetic to, his sister or Jin Ling?

            Jiang Cheng moved to the floor. He leaned against the edge of the bed, looking at the wall. The worst part was he knew he wouldn’t be any better tomorrow. He didn’t know how to be affectionate or caring; those were traits of his sister. She was kind and sweet and doting. He was hard and sarcastic and indifferent. How was he supposed to take care of a kid? He didn’t know how to make someone feel loved or safe.

            Behind him, Jin Ling woke with a start. “Jiujiu!”

            Jiang Cheng turned his head. “What is it.”

            Jin Ling was breathing hard. “Oh…I-I was afraid you were gone.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Well, I’m not.”

            Jin Ling relaxed. “You…you won’t leave me too, will you?”

            Jiang Cheng wanted to refute the idea that his sister had left voluntarily, but he didn’t have the energy. Instead, he looked at the wall ahead of him again and quietly muttered, “No, A-Ling. I’m not going anywhere.”

            The statement, no matter how gruffly said, seemed to make Jin Ling feel better. He fell back to his bed with a faint thump and passed out again immediately.

            The absurdity of it made Jiang Cheng’s lips twitch. Sighing, he leaned his head back against the edge of the bed and closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

The fire was low when Lan Wangji opened his eyes. He leaned over slowly to get it going again. As the flames lit up the dark cave once more, his gaze drifted to Wei Wuxian. For a second, he froze, his eyes widening, and then he lunged forward.

            “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian was motionless on the ground. Not even his chest moved. His skin was deathly pale, his arms limp at his sides. One hand lay stretched out in Lan Wangji’s general direction, but his fingers didn’t even twitch at the sound of his name.

            Lan Wangji knelt beside him. His hand moved more quickly than he could think, pressing against Wei Wuxian’s cheek. For a terrifying moment, he was frozen solid. “Wei Ying!” The cave rang with the echo of his voice, and then Wei Wuxian took a shallow, shuddering breath. Lan Wangji breathed out at the same time. He picked his hand up off the ground, using his spiritual energy to determine Wei Wuxian’s condition. He became even more worried at how weak Wei Wuxian had grown in the night. Shaking Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, he called a little louder, “Wei Ying!” and then Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows twitched.

            He gave a faint frown and turned his head away from the fire. “…Mm…”

            Lan Wangji realized his own breaths were hurried. He pulled his hands away from Wei Wuxian, but he didn’t leave. He regained control of his voice and expression, returning to the indifferent Lan Er-Gongzi. “You…you were not breathing.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed tiredly. “Just…taking a break.”

            Lan Wangji continued to stare at him. Wei Wuxian was getting worse.

            Lan Wangji had already searched for another way out while Wei Wuxian was asleep, but there was nothing. The cave had been completely blocked in and without swords or rope, they couldn’t climb to the entrance. The only exit they had found had been blocked by the Tulu Xuanwu. Though Wei Wuxian had held out hope for a quick rescue, Lan Wangji knew it would take twice as much time as he had estimated. For some reason, he couldn’t bring himself to remind Wei Wuxian of that.

            But they didn’t have much left. Wei Wuxian was sick and getting sicker. Without food or water, their strength was dangerously low. Wei Wuxian’s spiritual powers had dropped significantly, and Lan Wangji’s were almost as low. If they didn’t get rescued soon…

            Lan Wangji took Wei Wuxian’s wrist and began to feed him a gentle thread of spiritual energy.

            Wei Wuxian tried to take his hand away. He whispered, “Stop. You don’t have enough. I’m fine.”

            Lan Wangji ignored him.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t have the strength to argue. With a sigh, he mumbled, “So stubborn.” He shuddered hard and pulled the robe over him higher. “It’s so cold in here.”

            Lan Wangji, “Move closer to the fire.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Then I’ll be too hot.” He sighed again and tilted his head in Lan Wangji’s direction. “Do you…” It was getting harder to think. “Do you know if…if the…” His words fell away, and his expression relaxed.

            Lan Wangji jolted forward, gripping his shoulder with one hand. “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian made a sound of complaint.

            Lan Wangji, “Do not…do not sleep.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Tired.”

            Lan Wangji, “I know, but…do not sleep.”

            Wei Wuxian, “There’s nothing else to do.”

            Lan Wangji thought quickly. Yesterday, he had hummed a song to put Wei Wuxian to sleep; he had thought rest might help. But now, he was afraid that if Wei Wuxian slept, he wouldn’t wake up. He could only try to keep Wei Wuxian talking. “Tell me about Yunmeng again.”

            Wei Wuxian managed to open his eyes weakly, glancing at the other boy. There was a flicker of emotion in Lan Wangji’s expression that he didn’t know how to read. He chuckled thinly, “Oh? Did you change your mind about coming?”

            Lan Wangji was still giving him spiritual energy. He removed his hand from his shoulder to hold his wrist. “Tell me about Lotus Pier.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed his affirmation. Slowly, very slowly, he began. His words were barely more than a whisper, his smile dreamy, his gaze hazy. “Mm, what can I say? Yunmeng is the best. I’ve seen a lot of places, but none can compare to Yunmeng. It’s really fun, especially Lotus Pier. All throughout the night, they sell all kinds of snacks on the docks, anything you want. Some of the best foods in Yunmeng. Spicy meats…sweet desserts…everything. There’s one stand that sells little rice bowls with a sweet sauce. Think you’d like that one. If you want, I could show you spicier ones, too. Much better than the food in the Cloud Recesses. During the day…we could play in the lake. It’s hot in Lotus Pier, especially in the summer, but the lake is cool. We could…could…”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian opened his eyes again. “Mm…what was I…oh, yeah. We could swim in the lake, pick lotus seed pods. I’ll help you find the right ones, the ones that are sweet and crisp. You can only eat them when they’re ripe…otherwise they’re bitter. Don’t worry. I won’t give you the bitter ones, haha. Then…at night, the fireflies hover over the lake…” His smile grew even dreamier. “…It’s so pretty, Lan Zhan…think you’d really…mm…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers raised a little on his wrist, closer to his hand now. “Wei Ying. Keep talking. Do not sleep.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Mm…the fireflies…glow red at night, just after sunset. ‘Dusk is crimson in Lotus Pier.’ Heard someone say that once. Sounded nice. I think you’d like it. Nothing like it in Gusu. Everyone in Lotus Pier is nice, too. Well…Yu Furen is a little scary; she punishes me every day for something, but she won’t do that to you. She’ll like you because you’re well-behaved. And you like to punish me, too, haha, so maybe you’ll get along. Then…mm…you could meet my shijie.” His expression grew a little wistful. “You could try her lotus pork rib soup, which is the best thing in the world. You’ll like Shijie. She’s quiet and sweet, nothing like me, haha. I told her about you; she wants to meet you. She’s shy at first with new people, but she’ll like you. She likes to cook for people, too…you better eat her food, though, Lan Zhan, or I’ll get mad. Her food is so good. She can make us all dinner, and then we can all eat together and tell you…tell you stories about growing up…mm…” Lan Wangji’s fingers had slowly risen more, closing around Wei Wuxian’s ice-cold ones. Wei Wuxian’s mind was too far gone to notice. “After I got home…I told everyone about you, told them that we’re friends. They didn’t believe me, but now we count as having saved each other’s lives, so we’re definitely friends now, right? Back then, I told them I invited you to Lotus Pier, but they didn’t believe that, either. I told them you’d come. Lan Zhan…you will, won’t you?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened very gently. “Wei Ying…”

            A crease formed between Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows.

            Lan Wangji, “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian had started breathing faster. “…Don’t feel well…ugh…who would have thought that we’d…that we’d manage to survive killing an ancient beast without any weapons…only to…only to die from dehydration in some cold, dark cave, haha…hahahahahaha, so stupid, hahahahahaha—”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying, you…do not use so much energy.”

            Wei Wuxian fell back. He indeed felt dizzy now. He rested a hand over his ribs, panting. His mood grew rather serious, delirium pulling him from one mood to another. Solemnly, he mumbled, “I’m sorry, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitched. “You do not need to say this to me.”

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s my fault. You shouldn’t have been in here…should’ve gotten out when you had the chance to. Then you wouldn’t die, too.”        

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply, but his fingers tightened minimally.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows pulled together. “What’s taking Jiang Cheng so long…been so many days already. By the time he gets here, he’ll only find our corpses…what a brat…”

            Lan Wangji felt his own spiritual energy dip dangerously low. A wave of exhaustion swept over him, but he didn’t let go of Wei Wuxian’s hand. He had never really lied before. It was forbidden in the Cloud Recesses, but in this case, he made an exception. “Do not worry. They will be here soon.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “…Think so? I hope so. Wanna try Emperor’s Smile again.”

            Lan Wangji, “What do you like so much about it?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, his eyes falling shut. “Never…never thought I’d see such a worried Lan Zhan…so worried that you even want to hear me talk about alcohol of all things, haha…Let me tell you, of all the wines I’ve had…none can compare to Emperor’s Smile. It’s rich but sweet, strong yet refreshing. You need to try some. When you do, haha, I bet you’ll regret making me break a jar when we first met, haha.” His skin grew hot. He kicked his robe off and mumbled, “If we live, we’ll count as having survived death together, so we’ll definitely be friends now. Maybe I can go to Gusu with you, too. Not to the Cloud Recesses. I’ll stay in Caiyi Town and drink Emperor’s Smile and learn the Gusu dialect. You can visit me. But only after we go to Lotus Pier. Okay?”

            Lan Wangji stared at him for a moment before breathing softly, “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes opened with great difficulty. “I really must be delirious. I thought I just heard you agree. I…” A shudder passed through him once more. He reached for his robe but couldn’t find it.

            Lan Wangji pulled it back over him. “Tell me something else.”

            Wei Wuxian was struggling to concentrate.

            “Wei Ying.”

            “…Mm…what?”

            “Tell me something else.”

            “Like…mm, like what?”       

            Lan Wangji, “Tell me about the lotus lakes again.”

            Wei Wuxian frowned faintly. He didn’t seem to hear him. “…Mm?”

            Lan Wangji repeated it a little more loudly.

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “Oh. Okay.” But he didn’t say anything.

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm…those…mm…” He frowned again, struggling. “…I’m too tired. I can’t…Lan Zhan…” His hand grew limp in Lan Wangji’s, his head falling to one side.

            Lan Wangji lurched forward again, breathing, “Wei Ying!”

            But Wei Wuxian didn’t wake up again.

            Lan Wangji continued giving him spiritual energy until he couldn’t, and then, right beside Wei Wuxian, he went into meditation to gather enough energy to do it again.

            Four more days passed like that. Wei Wuxian remained unconscious the whole time. Only by exhausting his spiritual powers every few hours did Lan Wangji manage to fight against his fever.

            Lan Wangji opened his eyes with difficulty. His vision was blurry at first, slow to acclimate. The fire had burned out again. Wei Wuxian was leaning against his lap, breathing shallowly in unconsciousness. Lan Wangji listened very carefully. After a moment, another echo reached their cave. Voices. Footsteps.

            Lan Wangji felt weak after so many days without proper rest, food, or water, his spiritual energy strained and his leg broken, but he managed to move out from under Wei Wuxian. He set his head down carefully on the ground and stood.

            A loud voice called, “Wei Wuxian! Wei Wuxian!”

            And another. And another.

            Lan Wangji walked to the edge of their cave and called out one quiet, “Here.” Though his voice was dry and quiet, it carried.

            The footsteps hurried over.

            Jiang Cheng didn’t look that much better than them, his eyes bloodshot and dark underneath. “Lan Er-Gongzi! It’s good you’re fine. But where is—” He lunged into the cave as soon as he saw the motionless body within. The search party rushed in after him. “Wei Wuxian!” He crashed beside his shixiong, naked alarm flashing across his eyes at his condition. “Wei Wuxian!!”

            Lan Wangji, “He is sick. He needs medicine.”

            Jiang Cheng was horrified. “Sick?! How could he become so sick?”

            Lan Wangji, “Infection.”

            Jiang Cheng shouted for a medic. His father rushed in, too. Soon, the once-silent cave was bustling with activity. Lan Wangji stood to the side, gaze fixed on Wei Wuxian as the medic force-fed him several pills.

            Jiang Fengmian glanced up to see the look in Lan Wangji’s eyes. Gratefully, he murmured, “Lan Er-Gongzi, thank you for looking after A-Ying.” Jiang Cheng and a medic pulled a limp Wei Wuxian up. Jiang Fengmian gestured with one hand. “Let us speak outside, Lan Er-Gongzi. We have brought food and water, and a medic can look at your leg.”

            Lan Wangji nodded. Nothing in his expression indicated how drained he felt. The crowd of Jiang Sect disciples hurried out with Wei Wuxian, but Lan Wangji hesitated. He looked back into the cave at the extinguished fire and random scraps of cloth. A small, delicate pouch lay on the ground where Wei Wuxian had been. Lan Wangji walked over. He picked it up slowly, clasped it in his fingers, and then followed the Jiang Sect outside.

Chapter Text

Lan Xichen sighed quietly. A-Yuan lay inert on the bed before him. The child had finally fallen asleep. Leaning forward, Lan Xichen felt his forehead with the backs of his fingers. He had been sick early that evening when Lan Wangji had returned with him; despite Lan Xichen’s efforts, the child’s fever had only grown worse in the last few hours.

            Lan Xichen lay a cool cloth over the boy’s forehead. He was preparing another one when someone knocked on the door. Lan Xichen glanced worriedly at A-Yuan before he opened the door softly and stepped out.

            He whispered, “Please, the child is very ill. What is wrong?”

            The disciple before him saluted, his expression worried. He lowered his voice, as well. “Lan Zongzhu, I know you asked not to be disturbed, but it is Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Xichen’s eyes widened. “What has happened? Where is Wangji, is he alright?”

            The disciple was quick to nod. “He is, I think, though he is behaving oddly. He is in the storage room now, r-ransacking the place.” He hesitated to use such a boorish word in relation to Hanguang-Jun.

            Lan Xichen repeated incredulously, “Ransacking? Stay here with the child.” He handed the disciple the towel he held and hurried outside.

            As sect leader, Lan Xichen could not run through the Cloud Recesses, but he walked as quickly as he could to the storage room. Even from outside, he could hear with clarity the crashes within. The door was cracked open, but there were no lights inside.

            Lan Xichen slid the door open and froze, first in shock, then in concern. He was quick to pull the door shut behind himself. “Wangji! What are you doing?”

            Lan Wangji ignored him. He kept his back to him, going through a shelf of things noisily.

            Lan Xichen used a flame talisman to quickly light all the candles in the room. He walked to his brother, passing the mess he’d made of countless objects in the room. “Wangji, what is wrong?”

            Lan Wangji whispered, “Cannot find it.”

            Lan Xichen reached for his arm. He could see the bandages through his brother’s robes. Lines of blood had seeped through once more. “Wangji, your wounds have opened. We must—”

            Lan Wangji, “I cannot find it!”

            Lan Xichen was shocked at his brother’s tone. Though barely more than a whisper, it was almost defiant. “Wangji, what is it that you cannot—” He stopped short, catching a faint whiff of something in the air. His concern doubled. “W-Wangji, you—have you been drinking?” To his knowledge, his brother had never touched so much as a drop of wine in his life.

            Lan Wangji turned around, eyes focused on his search.

            Though he would have looked utterly normal to anyone else, Lan Xichen froze at the expression on his brother’s face. Not only did he realize at once that Lan Wangji was drunk, but he could also see plainly the streak of loss etched across his brother’s eyes. “Wangji…”

            Lan Wangji, “Xiongzhang, I cannot find it.”

            Lan Xichen turned with him as he continued to search. “Cannot find what, Wangji? I will help you find it.”

            Lan Wangji, “Dizi.”

            Lan Xichen, “A dizi? You…Here, Wangji.” He reached for a flute on the table beside him. It was finely made, bamboo with careful etchings and inscriptions. “Here is a dizi. Why are you looking for—”

            Lan Wangji took one look at it and pushed it aside, walking passed Lan Xichen. “No.”

            Lan Xichen set it down and picked up another, this one made of jade. “Wangji, here, what about this one? It is very—”

            Lan Wangji threw it across the room. He breathed, “Not this one.”

            Lan Xichen was surprised by the throw, but the tone of his brother’s whisper blotted everything else out. “Wangji—”

            Lan Wangji turned around, eyes red. “I cannot find it. No matter where I look…I cannot…where is it?”

            Lan Xichen’s vision grew blurry. He closed his eyes, lowering his head.

            Lan Wangji pushed a box of things off a shelf. The objects within scattered noisily across the floor. “I cannot…cannot find it…where…” His eyes caught on something else—long rods of iron with the sun and flame motif.

            Lan Xichen whispered, “Wangji, his dizi is not here. It—”

            Suddenly, he heard something sizzle and his brother’s pained gasp.

            Lan Xichen whipped around as the rod clattered to the floor. “Wangji!” He rushed to him, grabbing his arms. Horror filled his expression as the scent of burned flesh turned his stomach. “What did you do?!”

            Lan Wangji closed his eyes, grief written across his features. “Xiongzhang…”

            Lan Xichen’s heart ached at such a look. Lan Wangji didn’t say another word, but Lan Xichen had always been able to read his brother. It was plain to see. His brother was in love with Wei Wuxian, and now Wei Wuxian was gone.

            Lan Xichen didn’t know what to do. Something helpless, almost like anger but far more powerless, churned in his chest. He understood his uncle’s rage, though he could not share it. His uncle was angry that such a man had caused his respectable nephew to stray so far off the path he had been on. What filled Lan Xichen, though, was the sorrow of knowing that his brother was in such chaos. Most people thought Lan Wangji didn’t care about things, but Lan Xichen knew better; Lan Wangji felt things very deeply. And now, his heart had been broken so irreparably.

            The truth was, Lan Xichen had always known the way his brother felt about Wei Wuxian, if not always the exact extent. He knew Lan Wangji was difficult for others to understand, but his younger brother had never hidden his thoughts from Lan Xichen; more than that, Lan Xichen could read and decipher even the faintest muscle twitches. He often knew generally, if not precisely, what his brother was thinking or feeling at any given moment. And that being the case, such an powerful emotion as love could hardly be hidden.

            Lan Wangji had never expressed an interest in anyone growing up. Even before their mother died, he had been withdrawn and studious. After her death, he became even more so, locking himself in his room to practice his calligraphy or guqin or meditation. He spoke regularly to Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren, of course, and was courteous to the other elders, but he had always maintained a careful distance between himself and others, especially those his own age.

            And then Wei Wuxian had swept into his life. Wild and carefree, quick to smile, quicker to tease, Wei Wuxian was the polar opposite to Lan Wangji. But after being with Wei Wuxian every day for so many hours in the Library Pavilion, Lan Xichen had noticed the change in his younger brother. His gaze had lingered on Wei Wuxian when he thought no one was looking, most especially when he heard him laugh. He grew silent when their uncle harangued Wei Wuxian while at the same time becoming stricter himself, prolonging Wei Wuxian’s punishment indefinitely for the smallest things.

            Everyone assumed that meant Lan Wangji hated Wei Wuxian, but it hadn’t taken long for Lan Xichen to understand. Simply put, his brother wanted to spend more time with Wei Wuxian but didn’t know how to do so outside of the confines of his punishment. Though he manifested that emotion in anger and frustration, Lan Xichen inferred it was more because he could not make sense of his own chaotic feelings.

            His brother had always been open and honest with him; if asked about something, he would always provide an answer. But in those early days, he would shut down when asked about Wei Wuxian, ignoring the questions altogether or denying with indifference any sentimentality. Lan Xichen had always privately found it endearing.

            After Wei Wuxian had left his studies at the Cloud Recesses without notice, Lan Wangji had been especially quiet. For days, he had kept more to himself than usual. He had continued to spend hours in the Library Pavilion ostensibly to copy texts for their uncle, but Lan Xichen had walked in more than once to see his younger brother staring blankly at the seat opposite him. In the late hours of the night, a tentative melody had begun to take shape in the depths of his room. He had adamantly refused to get rid of the two rabbits that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, though he knew full well that pets were forbidden in the Cloud Recesses.

            He had also become more interested in trying unfamiliar foods—fried watermelon rinds, lotus seeds right off the stem, other such concoctions. Lan Xichen concluded this sudden curiosity could only have come from Wei Wuxian, and, with a private smile, he had indulged his brother’s whims without complaint or question.

            But things had grown more complicated after that. The Cloud Recesses was burned down, their father died, and Lan Xichen was forced to go into hiding. He had not been at the Cloud Recesses during the time of Lotus Pier’s destruction, but he had pieced together the story of what had happened from others after his return.

            After Jiang Zongzhu and Jiang Cheng had rescued him and Wei Wuxian from the cave of the Tulu Xuanwu, Lan Wangji had been informed of his father’s death. He returned alone to the burned remains of his home.

            Many days later, word had spread far and wide: For its disobedience and acts of open rebellion against the Qishan Wen Sect, Lotus Pier had been destroyed. Its sect leader, its mistress, and almost every single one of its disciples had been slaughtered in the night. The Wen Sect had sent out a message to all the clans, ordering the immediate capture of the Yunmeng Jiang Sect’s remaining dissident survivors: Jiang Cheng, Jiang Yanli, and most especially, Wei Wuxian.

            Without delay, Lan Wangji had sent disciples to search for their whereabouts. They quickly found a frightened Jiang Yanli on the verge of being found by the Wen Sect; at Lan Wangji’s order, they took her away to keep her safe. Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian, though, had gone into hiding. After more than a week of searching, Jiang Cheng was finally located in a small town in Yiling. But Wei Wuxian was missing.

            Lan Wangji personally went to the small town, against his uncle’s wishes. An elder who had always admired Lan Wangji went with him to help with the search. For days, they walked the mountain paths. Lan Wangji asked the townspeople, who say they’d seen nothing, heard nothing, knew nothing. Outside a small tea shop, he found the mangled silver-tasseled bell Wei Wuxian had worn as part of his uniform. With it, he played Inquiry countless times, hoping to find a spirit who could tell him definitively what had happened, but the few that responded knew nothing. All they could say was that Wei Wuxian had not died there.

            Months after the beginning of the Sunshot Campaign, Wei Wuxian was finally found, but he returned walking a dark path. Gossip drifted from village to village, clan to clan about how Hanguang-Jun and Wei Wuxian fought with one another as often as with the Wen Sect. Whenever Lan Wangji had the rare chance to return to the Cloud Recesses, usually as he was escorting disciples to and fro, he ate little and spent most of his time in the Library Pavilion, researching and learning scores to calm one’s mind, ease one’s heart.

            After the Sunshot Campaign, things had grown even more complicated. Wei Wuxian had broken away from the Yunmeng Jiang Sect, fled to Luanzang Hill, and been dubbed ‘the Yiling Laozu’ along with the Wen Sect remnants he was protecting. It was at around this time Lan Qiren became especially hard on Lan Wangji. For weeks, he had him grounded, forbidden to leave the Cloud Recesses. He made him copy endless tomes, hurling work at him to keep him inside and away from Wei Wuxian. Lan Wangji completed every punishment without fault, though Lan Xichen could read the concern in his brother’s eyes. Lan Qiren could, too, and so he punished him more.

            Lan Xichen remembered clearly the day his brother had left the Cloud Recesses under the pretense of a night-hunt in Yiling. Lan Xichen had known his real reason for going, but he’d said nothing. Though things were very complicated, he had hoped his brother would still find some semblance of happiness, even if only for a few hours. When Lan Wangji returned only a day later, appearing disheartened, Lan Qiren had realized that his nephew had lied and gone to see Wei Wuxian. And so he was punished once more.

            Lan Xichen had seen his brother kneeling in front of Lan Qiren’s rooms for a day and a night, holding the heavy discipline staff without fault, without any sign of weakness or discomfort. Though his body was strong, his expression had seemed empty, both his heart and his mind in a tangle. As soon as the punishment had ended, Lan Wangji had risen on numb legs, returned the discipline staff, and continued studying music scores in the Library Pavilion.

            Lan Xichen knew his brother was stubborn, but he also knew that all Lan Wangji was trying to do was help Wei Wuxian. And so, without asking Lan Qiren for permission first, he helped him. He opened for him the doors to the Room of Forbidden Books and went through countless scores at his side.

            A year later, everything had changed.

            As soon as Lan Wangji had heard the news that the Yiling Laozu had gone mad and that his dog had killed Jin Zixuan in cold blood, he had left the Cloud Recesses without permission. The few survivors of the attack at Qiongqi Path said Wei Wuxian had passed out in the middle of the battle, and that Wen Ning had carried him away.  

            Soon after came the events of Nightless City. Risking his life and his reputation—everything he had worked for, everything he had earned—Lan Wangji fought against his own people to keep Wei Wuxian safe. Even after returning to the Cloud Recesses for his punishment, Lan Wangji refused to admit the wrong Wei Wuxian had done, going so far as to accept the consequences on his behalf.  

            His uncle had been ruthless with his punishment this time. Thirty-three strikes from the discipline whip, or, as Lan Qiren had called it, a strike for every member of the Lan Sect Lan Wangji had betrayed. Lan Xichen did not think he would ever, for the rest of his life, forget the look on Lan Wangji’s face as he’d received his punishment. He did not flinch from the wounds, not even when his back seeped with blood or when Lan Qiren’s words grew harsh enough to be considered cruel. He bore it all, fists tight, gaze determined. It was not a physical pain that flashed in his eyes with each strike, but rather one that would not heal as easily.

            He had only been resting for three months when, two days ago, word had reached the Lan Sect: Wei Wuxian was dead.

            As soon as he had heard the news, Lan Xichen had rushed to his brother’s room, but Lan Wangji had already broken out of the Cloud Recesses. After searching for days on that desolate mountain, he had returned with a vacant expression and a sick child.

            Lan Xichen could never have imagined the way his brother’s unspoken love for Wei Wuxian would unfold and spread, manifesting itself in countless subtle ways throughout the years. Nor could he have imagined the suffering his brother would endure for such devotion.

            Now, Lan Wangji stood before him, drunk for the first time in his life with a fresh burn mark seared into his chest.

            Lan Xichen’s eyes fell to that burn now, wincing at the flesh and fabric fused together. “Wangji, please, we must get this treated quickly.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t resist, as though he didn’t have the strength. Several people had gathered outside the storage room, many elders who had admired and revered Lan Wangji throughout the years.

            Lan Xichen felt overly protective of his younger brother, wanting to shield him from the undeserved judgment in their eyes now. Though he had always been kind and patient, when he told them, “Leave us,” it was in a way that was neither warm nor gentle.

            He helped his brother to the jingshi and grabbed the supplies he needed to treat Lan Wangji’s wound. A jar of Emperor’s Smile lay on the ground near Lan Wangji’s guqin. Lan Xichen picked it up slowly and set it on the table before he knelt by his brother.

            Lan Wangji didn’t react when Lan Xichen peeled back his charred clothes and began to treat the wound. As though he couldn’t feel the pain, he simply stared unseeingly at the floor.

            Lan Xichen could not bear to see his brother in such a state. “Wangji, I…” But he did not know what to say.

            Lan Wangji seemed to be exhausted, drained in more than just body, and that frightened Lan Xichen even more.

            When he finished treating the brand mark, Lan Xichen changed the bandages over his brother’s back. When he’d broken from the Cloud Recesses to go to Luanzang Hill, he had torn them open again.

            Afterwards, Lan Xichen helped Lan Wangji lay on his stomach. Though the brand was a fresh pain, the wounds on his back were more serious. He still could not put pressure on them.

            Lan Xichen sat beside him on the bed. “Wangji…I am sorry.”

            But he knew the words weren’t enough; nothing could ever be enough.

            Lan Wangji didn’t seem to hear him. After a moment, his eyes closed, and his breaths evened out.

            Lan Xichen watched him for a long time. Even in his sleep, the grief etched across his features did not dissolve. Lan Xichen stood with difficulty. He closed the door softly behind him and took the path back down.

            Lan Qiren was storming up it, outrage clear in his expression.

            Lan Xichen greeted tiredly, “Shufu.”

            Lan Qiren, “Where is he?”

            Lan Xichen, “He is resting.”

            Lan Qiren’s expression was livid. “He drank?! He destroyed the storage room?! He branded himself?! Xichen! Tell me none of this is true! Tell me the others exaggerated!”

            Lan Xichen didn’t know what to say. “He is in pain.”

            Lan Qiren didn’t want to hear such things. He could not hate his nephew, but he could hate the one who had done this to him. Through his teeth, he seethed, “One death was not enough for—”

            Lan Xichen closed his eyes. “Please, Shufu. I wish to speak no more of this. I know you are angry, but Wangji has had more than enough. He cannot take more.”

            Lan Qiren realized he would get nowhere venting his anger on Lan Xichen. Without another word, he stormed away.

            Lan Xichen returned to A-Yuan. The boy was still asleep, thankfully. Lan Xichen sat beside him, checking his fever before adding another cool cloth to his skin.

            Lan Xichen had always been confident in his actions, firm in his decisions, but he no longer knew what to do. With his brother in such anguish, he did not know how to comfort him. With their uncle in such a fury, he did not know how to shield him. 

            He closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. After a moment, he picked up his supplies and tried to focus on treating A-Yuan as best he could.

Chapter Text

The Discussion Conference in Gusu had arrived. Of course, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had little interest in the cultivation world anymore but given that Lan Xichen was in secluded meditation and Lan Qiren was overworked and overtired, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had been guilted into attending. Wei Wuxian didn’t really mind; it would mostly be a lot of boring talks, but, on the upside, at least there would be some free meals.

            It was also a good opportunity for the juniors to see each other. Though they’d been on a few night-hunts together recently, time passed slowly for kids, and they were all eager to see one another again. As soon as Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji arrived with the Jiang Sect in the Cloud Recesses, Jin Ling hurried off to go find Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi—not that he said as much, of course, but what else could he have been in such a hurry to go do?

            The main hall of the Gusu Lan Sect was overcrowded. Though large enough to hold these sorts of conferences, it still felt a little stuffy. Tables had been pushed together to make room, doubling or tripling up to allow for more visitors. This, of course, made Wei Wuxian quite happy. His and Lan Wangji’s tables had somehow ended up pushed together, no doubt to Lan Qiren’s horror, as they sat so close to one another that their elbows brushed occasionally.

            They both received their fair share of looks from the others; most of them were good, as Hanguang-Jun had a reputation that was hard to mar, but some of them were less kind. Neither Wei Wuxian nor Lan Wangji took notice, though, both caught up in their own thoughts and quiet conversation. Whenever Wei Wuxian had a comment to make, he leaned over to Lan Wangji, delighted whenever he managed to make Hanguang-Jun smile.

            Since tonight was only the first night of the Discussion Conference, as usual, it was a banquet night. Wei Wuxian couldn’t help privately reflecting on the last time they’d attended a Discussion Conference together. A lot had changed since then.

            There were over four thousand rules in the Cloud Recesses now; however, Discussion Conferences were the rare occasions in which the Lan Sect relaxed its severity for its visitors. Alcohol was permitted to all but the Lan Sect, and the noise restrictions were lifted. As a result, everyone outside of the Lan Sect’s disciples drank and ate merrily, talking and laughing and enjoying the banquet without reservation.

            Getting to drink was definitely a plus, but what made Wei Wuxian especially excited was the food the Lan Sect had brought in for the banquet. He’d expected the same boring dishes the Lan Sect had always served—rice so plain that it was a chore to eat, vegetables so boring that one had to force-feed themselves—but to his surprise, they had worked with some of the cooks in Caiyi Town to bring in a lot of new foods—meats and spices and flavor.

            Wei Wuxian was reveling in it. Though he hadn’t been subjected to the Cloud Recesses’ cuisine for quite a while now and hadn’t wanted for good food with Lan Wangji, he still knew to appreciate a good meal. He sampled from many dishes, giving soft noises of approval and eagerly accepting whatever samples servants happened to walk by with.

            Wei Wuxian tilted his cup back, savoring the rich taste of Emperor’s Smile. He was the only one on the Lan Sect’s side drinking, so he decided to make it count. He sighed heavily as he finished and wiped his chin with his sleeve. “Delicious!” As he spoke, he reached for another steamed bun.

            It was only after a moment that he realized Lan Wangji had been watching him. Wei Wuxian glanced at him and grinned, mouth full of bread. It made Lan Wangji give an adoring smile before he began eating slowly.

            An hour at the banquet passed quickly. Wei Wuxian saw Jin Ling, Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi, and Ouyang Zizhen all talking and laughing together, clearly enjoying the chance to relax. He watched Jin Ling for a moment, smiling widely at the boy’s demeanor. Though he rolled his eyes and scoffed most of the time, he was clearly having fun.

            A servant passed by with another tray of cups filled to the brim with Emperor’s Smile. Wei Wuxian sat up eagerly, calling, “Oh! Guniang, another, please!”

            The young woman brought the tray, and Wei Wuxian took two cups off, thanking her before he drank one down. He would have offered the other to Lan Wangji, but he knew Lan Wangji wouldn’t drink at such an affair. Things had a tendency to get rather intimate rather fast whenever Hanguang-Jun drank.

            Wei Wuxian held the cup high, letting the alcohol flow smoothly into his mouth. When it ran out, he raised his tongue a little to the rim of the cup to get the last few drops. It was only after he set the cup down with a satisfied sigh that he realized Lan Wangji had been staring at him.

            Wei Wuxian grinned wickedly and leaned over, feeling quite warm with the buzz of the alcohol. “Looking at me in such a way in such a public place, Lan Zhan.” He made a soft tch sound with his tongue. “How sinful.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t seem to care. His eyes swept across Wei Wuxian’s features, his pupils dilated despite the ample lighting. Wei Wuxian was quite surprised. Lan Wangji’s gaze seemed heavy, like he wanted nothing more than to pull Wei Wuxian into his lap and kiss him.

            Wei Wuxian’s breath fell a little unevenly. Since Lan Wangji was a man of so few words, such looks were rather devastating to Wei Wuxian’s willpower. With neither word nor touch, Lan Wangji already had heat pooling in Wei Wuxian’s stomach. Still, he couldn’t allow Lan Wangji to maintain the upper hand, or else what would he do with his face? If Lan Wangji wanted to play, then he was more than happy to oblige.

            Wei Wuxian had always had a teasing nature, and something about riling up Hanguang-Jun in such a public setting was inexplicably erotic. With Lan Wangji already giving him such weighted looks, Wei Wuxian decided to push how far this would go.

            He glanced around his dishes and found a rather interesting-looking sausage link. True, he’d been planning on eating it anyway, but now it would be more fun. He picked it up casually with his chopsticks and made quite a show of eating it, well aware of how such an image might be easily replaced with another activity of theirs. Though he was doing it to get under Hanguang-Jun’s skin, the sausage was actually quite delicious—spiced and flavorful—and so he made no effort whatsoever to rein in soft noises of appreciation that wouldn’t go unrecognized by Lan Wangji.           

            However, Lan Wangji, to Wei Wuxian’s utter shock, didn’t turn away in embarrassment. Instead, he watched him, gaze drifting from his eyes to his lips around the sausage and even lower, trailing slowly down his body before dragging back up.

            Wei Wuxian was used to flustering Lan Wangji, but this time, he was the one to nearly choke on his food. He set the sausage down, took another drink, and leaned over to Lan Wangji to whisper something. Unexpectedly, Lan Wangji’s eyes fluttered closed, lips parting at Wei Wuxian’s sudden closeness. He angled his head towards him and then hesitated, as though fighting the urge to kiss him then and there. That alone made whatever Wei Wuxian had been about to say evaporate.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes opened an instant later, light irises settling on Wei Wuxian’s at an impossibly close distance.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, licking his lips briefly. Lan Wangji tracked the movement. “What’s gotten into you, Lan Er-Gege?”

            Lan Wangji breathed out shallowly, his earlobes flushed.

            Wei Wuxian had never seen him so turned on with so little. It honestly floored him. “Did you have any wine I don’t know about?”

            Lan Wangji shook his head, gaze fixed penetratingly on Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian swallowed at such a look. “Lan Zhan…”

            Again, Lan Wangji’s eyes drifted to Wei Wuxian’s lips to watch him form the name.

            Wei Wuxian, “Seriously, are you drunk?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched with a small smile. “No.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I can’t tell if that’s a sober no or a drunk no. You always deny it.”

            Lan Wangji’s expression was an impossible combination of adoring and heated. It made Wei Wuxian’s heart tremble even as he felt a strong wave of arousal wash over him. Lan Wangji answered softly, “A sober no.”

            Wei Wuxian started to reply, but Lan Wangji reached for his hand. His fingers drifted up the inside of Wei Wuxian’s wrist. It was innocuous enough to the outside eye, even tender, but it had become something of a code for them lately when they were in public.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled breathlessly, “What, now?”

            Lan Wangji nodded, leaning a fraction closer to Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart was flying. “Right now? In the middle of your sect’s Discussion Conference? You want to leave and—”

            Lan Wangji replied softly, “Yes. Wei Ying…”

            If Wei Wuxian hadn’t already been hard, that certainly would’ve done it. Still, Wei Wuxian had to play. He teased, “What’s gotten you so riled up, mm?”

            Lan Wangji’s hand drifted to Wei Wuxian’s thigh, fingers resting dangerously close to where they both wanted them. He angled his head, drifting close to Wei Wuxian’s ear. Quietly, he breathed, “Want you…need you…”

            Wei Wuxian’s teasing intentions for the evening went clear out the window. Such simple words, but they were said in such a tone from someone who rarely used them—it was enough to make Wei Wuxian throb. He panted a quick, “Fuck…okay, let’s go.”

            Lan Wangji took his hand and stood up with him. Heedless of the dozens of cultivators in the room, he pulled Wei Wuxian swiftly outside. Several eyes followed them as Wei Wuxian laughed and clung to Lan Wangji’s arm.

            When they stepped out into the cool night, Lan Wangji didn’t take them to the jingshi as Wei Wuxian had expected. Instead, he turned past the main hall and took them around the back.

            The second they were out of sight, he pressed against Wei Wuxian, his kiss searing as he picked him up. As soon as he pinned him to the wall, he lowered Wei Wuxian and let their hips grind together.

            Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with a surprised moan. He pressed his forehead to Lan Wangji’s, feeling the rapid rhythm of the other’s breath. “Ngh, Lan Zhan…how long have you been like this?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers drifted to the small of Wei Wuxian’s back, pulling him against himself more quickly. All he offered in response was a somewhat strained, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian whined faintly. The thought that the powerful, righteous, dignified Hanguang-Jun—the man with the legendary self-control—had wanted him so badly that he couldn’t even make it to the privacy of their own room was too much for Wei Wuxian. He whimpered inelegantly, “Fuck, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers were digging into Wei Wuxian’s waist. He managed another quiet, “Need you,” before he dropped his head and made his way across Wei Wuxian’s neck, licking, biting, sucking, kissing.

            Wei Wuxian gave a small groan and nodded furiously. “Mm…wait…haa…but…” It was getting harder to think. “But what if someone finds us?”

            Lan Wangji tore his own forehead ribbon off and reached for Wei Wuxian’s wrists. “I do not care.” He tied them together swiftly and looped them around his neck.

            Wei Wuxian groaned and gripped Lan Wangji’s waist with his thighs, crossing his ankles behind his back. With the leverage, he began rocking his hips forward as hard as he could. “Fuck, Lan Zhan, haa…”

            Lan Wangji gasped at the friction, repeating Wei Wuxian’s name in a strained voice.

            Wei Wuxian’s skin felt overly hot, drunk now on both Emperor’s Smile and, more predominantly, Lan Wangji. “Wh…what if your uncle finds us?”

            Lan Wangji repeated breathlessly, “I do not care.” He moved his head up and captured Wei Wuxian’s mouth, tongue sliding into the kiss easily.

            Wei Wuxian moaned around it and clung to Lan Wangji’s neck with his tied wrists. Lan Wangji’s pace was fast, grinding against him almost mercilessly. All at once, the situation, the person, the location—it all became too much for Wei Wuxian.

            His toes curled, and he panted, “Wait, wait, I-I’m—Lan Zhan—”

            Lan Wangji slowed down, breaths shaking as he parted from Wei Wuxian’s mouth. A string of saliva connected their lips, and the somewhat dirty intimacy of it made Wei Wuxian throb even more. He moaned quietly as he struggled to hold back. He rested his forehead against Lan Wangji’s, twisting his arms around his neck until he could press a tied hand to his cheek.

            He hummed softly, “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji was panting just as hard. “Mm?”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Nothing, just…love you…”

            When Lan Wangji replied, as always, with “Every day,” there was a smile in his voice. His lips returned to Wei Wuxian’s more tenderly. For a long moment, their movements were slow and gentle, and then the heat returned.

            Wei Wuxian began grinding against Lan Wangji once more. He wondered what Lan Wangji had in mind; did he want to continue like this, as though they were teenagers? Did he want to stroke them both until they came over their clothes? Did he want to bend him over and fuck him until Wei Wuxian’s moans drew the entire Discussion Conference over to them?

            Lan Wangji seemed to have no intention of leaving this spot. After a moment, he pulled their trousers down just enough for the position to work, only their robes shielding them from total exposure.

            He reached between them for a small bottle in his qiankun sleeve, and Wei Wuxian heard an all-too-familiar, slick sound.

            He whimpered, pulling from the kiss. “You brought that with you? Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers appeared low on him.

            Wei Wuxian worried, eyes squeezing shut, “We don’t have much time, probably, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t seem to care about that. He pressed a long, slender finger into him slowly. Wei Wuxian panted, throwing his head back when Lan Wangji’s finger brushed purposefully against that familiar spot inside him.

            Though Wei Wuxian tried to urge him to go faster, Lan Wangji was as diligent as always in preparing him. After a while, pleasure overwhelmed everything else. Wei Wuxian rolled his hips as Lan Wangji’s fingers thrusted up into him. Every time, his fingers pressed against that spot until Wei Wuxian’s legs felt like jelly. He honestly would’ve been happy to finish with that alone, but more than the selfish desire to take care of his immediate need, he wanted to feel Lan Wangji, all of him.

            Sweat rolled down his skin despite the cool air, Lan Wangji’s movements almost tortuous in their perfection. When he really couldn’t take it anymore, he begged, “I’m ready, Lan Zhan, please, I can’t—I need you, please—”

            Lan Wangji removed his wet fingers and groaned as he kissed Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian really had no idea what had gotten Lan Wangji so worked up, but he was definitely not complaining.

            Lan Wangji adjusted his hold on Wei Wuxian and then, seconds later, was pressing into Wei Wuxian’s heat.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into the kiss at the stretch, frowning in pleasure. He had to break away after a moment, whining, “Feels so good, Hanguang-Jun…haa…al-always so good for me, Lan Er-Gege…”

            Lan Wangji responded with a low, breathless rendition of his name. His fingers grew tight on his waist.

            Wei Wuxian grunted softly, leaning into Lan Wangji’s ear. He took his crimson earlobe between his teeth gently before he murmured, “Do I feel good around you, Lan Zhan? Hot and wet and tight? You’re so hard, feel so—”

            Lan Wangji never seemed quite sure how to respond to Wei Wuxian’s dirty talk. He sealed his lips with a kiss, groaning as he entered a quick rhythm.  

            Indeed, they didn’t have much time; the fact that they hadn’t already been discovered was quite lucky. Lan Wangji grew more earnest after a moment, dropping his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder and grabbing his waist. He guided Wei Wuxian to him, panting and gasping softly.

            Wei Wuxian bit his lip, struggling to keep his sounds low, but every time Lan Wangji’s length kissed that sensitive spot within him, he couldn’t help crying out. He grunted and moaned, his wrists beginning to ache from the way he was straining against the forehead ribbon. He felt himself leaking and throbbing between them. Every other thrust forced his length up against the fabric of his robes, teasing him with friction without delivering any relief.

            After a while, Wei Wuxian couldn’t take it anymore. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji hummed a question, tucked against his neck.

            Wei Wuxian tightened his legs on his waist. “Touch me, please, please, Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege, Hanguang—” The name was stolen from his lips as Lan Wangji’s fingers wrapped around him. He groaned softly at how wet Wei Wuxian had become. His fingers entered into the same quick rhythm as his thrusts, his thumb sweeping across the head every stroke.

            Wei Wuxian tensed up and arched into his touch. Tears collected in his eyes and fell. “Haa, yes, Lan Zhan, fuck me—”

            Lan Wangji captured his lips with another strained sound. His pace grew even faster as they both chased their release. Wei Wuxian felt Lan Wangji’s hips twitch, his pace losing its rhythm.

            He broke from Lan Wangji’s lips to tease, “Are you close, Lan Zhan? Are you going to come inside me?”

            Lan Wangji’s hips stuttered even as he let out a somewhat admonishing, “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Feel so good, Lan Er-Gege, always so—” He moaned loudly, cutting himself off when Lan Wangji’s wrist twisted on an upstroke and his thumb ran across his head. He stuttered out a broken, “Lan Zhan!” White-hot pleasure washed through him before he could stop it, making him writhe and grind against Lan Wangji in a desperate attempt to chase the feeling.

            Lan Wangji panted his name at his neck, the hand low on his back punishingly tight. He managed only another two hard thrusts before he stilled. Another strained “Wei Ying,” broke from his parted lips as he came. He repeated the name twice more, hips slowly rocking forward as the feeling overwhelmed him.

            Wei Wuxian gave another low moan, grinding against him. The feeling was slow to subside, but when it finally did, he collapsed, dropping his head to Lan Wangji’s shoulder and falling limply against him.

            He groaned, “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji took a moment, breaths deliciously fast, before he angled his head and kissed Wei Wuxian. A soft sound came from his chest as he raised a hand to Wei Wuxian’s cheek. His fingers curled as he slowed the kiss, tongue brushing against Wei Wuxian’s languorously.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered around it, pulling back just enough to switch sides. He twisted his arm to take Lan Wangji’s cheek too, thumb sweeping across his skin.

            When they broke apart, they pressed their foreheads together. For a long moment, they simply panted in unison.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled faintly, “If I was the one holding you up, I would’ve collapsed with you a long time ago. My Hanguang-Jun is so strong.”

            Lan Wangji gave a soft laugh as he tried to catch his breath. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mhm?”

            Lan Wangji pulled back to look at him, gaze disarmingly tender. “Love you.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned so wide it hurt. He pulled his arms out from around Lan Wangji’s neck and held his cheek more comfortably. “You’ve stolen my line, which means now I have to steal yours. Alright, alright…‘Every day,’ mm? How is it?”

            When Lan Wangji kissed him again, Wei Wuxian could feel the soft curve of his smile.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian was pulling his boots on swiftly. He glanced out the window over his bed, checking that the coast was still clear. It was after ten already, so the paths were deserted and the sect was quiet.

            The sound of Wei Wuxian shuffling around woke Jiang Cheng, who rolled over in his bed. He rubbed his eyes and mumbled, “What’re you doing?”

            Wei Wuxian whispered back, “Can’t sleep! I’m gonna go to Caiyi Town for some Emperor’s Smile. Want anything?”

            Jiang Cheng sat up and threw his pillow at him. “I want you to stop causing trouble!”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Besides that. Last chance…”

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes and fell back to the bed. “You’re hopeless. He’s going to catch you again, and you’re going to get in trouble again, and there’s nothing I or anyone else can do to save you.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You mean Lan Zhan? I don’t need saving from him now that I know how to avoid him. Lil’ fuddy-duddy won’t even know I’m gone.”

            Jiang Cheng, “That’s what you said last time. I’m still trying to get Lan Qiren’s rant out of my ears.”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand. “That was just bad luck.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Do you have any other kind?”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled. “Alright, alright, you don’t want anything. When I come back with Emperor’s Smile, you’re not allowed to have any.”

            Jiang Cheng threw a boot at him. “Get lost!!!”

            With a muffled laugh, Wei Wuxian hurried to the door. He cracked it open and glanced around outside. As expected, everyone was already in bed. He slipped outside and closed the door behind him.

            On his way, he stuck to backyards and gardens, wary of the main road. He passed by a couple cultivators on night patrol, but neither saw him hiding in the bushes.

            It didn’t take too long for Wei Wuxian to reach the backmost corner of the Cloud Recesses. He knew for a fact that this was a difficult place to get to and was therefore seldom patrolled. Even if someone were to go there, they’d have no way of seeing him sneak out over the wall. The reason for this was a massive tree. It was thick-bodied and very tall. Its trunk alone was wider than the reach of three men’s arms, and there were numerous, wide branches curling off it. As a result, the ground underneath the tree wasn’t well-maintained. Though the Gusu Lan Sect prided itself on being neat and orderly at all times, this one, hidden corner of the Cloud Recesses appeared almost wild.

            Given that the Lan Sect valued all living things, of course they wouldn’t chop down such an old, thriving tree. However, the fact that this tree was so massive made it very difficult to maintain the yard around it. Both branches and roots made it nearly impossible to maneuver, and so the grasses and bushes underneath it grew wild, free in their own little paradise.

            Wei Wuxian knew no one would be able to see him climb the wall beyond this tree. He couldn’t even see the wall from where he stood, and thus, it was the perfect place to escape for a few hours.

            It took Wei Wuxian quite a long time to fenagle his way through the branches. His robes and hair got caught on more than his fair share of leaves, branches, and bushes. He fanned away spiderwebs, stepped around massive ant piles, and climbed over branches to avoid a snake, but he eventually made his way to the edge. When he finally reached the wall, he grinned madly. Piece of cake…  

            However, he had only pulled himself halfway up the wall when a monotoned voice behind him said, “Copy Righteousness three more times.”

            Wei Wuxian was so surprised that he accidently let go of the wall and fell to the ground. He whipped around and scrambled up to his feet again. “Lan Zhan?! How—you—where—How?!”

            Lan Wangji had been sitting near the base of the tree, meditating. Now, he stood, collected Bichen from where it had lain beside him, and walked closer to Wei Wuxian. His expression was indifferent but unsurprised.

            Wei Wuxian rested a hand against the wall, huffing. “Just how in the world did you know I was going to be here?!”

            Lan Wangji cast a cool glance at him. “You are very loud.”

           Wei Wuxian blinked at him in confusion. It took a second for him to remember. When he’d discovered this hidden passage, he’d been so excited that he had run to tell Nie Huaisang about it. As he recalled, his voice had been a bit loud…

            Wei Wuxian, “Ugh! This is unbelievable. Betrayed by my own mouth.” He glanced up at Lan Wangi. “Wait, if you knew I was going to come this way, why didn’t you just wait on the other side! You made me climb all the way here just to…to…!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched very faintly. He repeated, “Copt it three additional times.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed. “You really are…wait, three times or six?”

            Lan Wangji gestured to the tree impatiently. “Three. It is after curfew. Go to bed.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced to the side. It had been quite arduous to get there. Then, he looked at Lan Wangji’s sword. With a grin, he said, “Hey, Lan Zhan, how about you take us both up on Bichen? It will take me a long time to get back to my room if I have to go back through the tree, and then I’ll be out so much later after curfew. I won’t get enough sleep, and then I’ll just be tired all day during class. I forgot Suibian, but you have Bichen! It’ll be so much faster, and then we can talk more!”

            Lan Wangji muttered an annoyed “Wuliao” and left.

            Wei Wuxian spluttered, “Wh—no! I’m not messing around! I really…” But Lan Wangji was already gone. Wei Wuxian sighed heavily. He knew it was no use trying to leave the Cloud Recesses now. Lan Wangji was probably watching him to make sure he didn’t even attempt it.

            Wei Wuxian sighed. Fine, fine, this one’s on me. I’ll look for a new place tomorrow and try again. He can’t be everywhere!

***

Jiang Cheng was watching Wei Wuxian put his boots on with a blank expression. “Why are you like this? Why are you even doing this?”

            Wei Wuxian gladly explained, “Well, at first it was because I wanted Emperor’s Smile. Of course, I still do, but now Lan Zhan’s made it a challenge, so I—”

            Jiang Cheng threw his pillow at him. “It wasn’t a real question!!!”

            Wei Wuxian caught it. “Shh! Don’t be so loud! I can do it this time for sure.”

            Jiang Cheng shook his head. “It’s like you like getting into trouble. If Lan Wangji catches you again, he might just stab you on the spot and save himself the bother later.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Unless Lan Zhan is standing outside our door right now, there’s no way he’ll know I’m going this time.”

            Jiang Cheng scoffed, “I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if he was. I wouldn’t even be upset, either. At least that would mean you couldn’t cause any more trouble.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “You always say that, and yet you always drink the wine I bring back, don’t you? Don’t sound so stuffy; I don’t need to deal with two Lan Zhans every day.”

            Jiang Cheng fell back on the bed. “I want to hit you so badly right now. If you weren’t all the way over there, I would.”      

            Wei Wuxian, “I’ll bring you something back!”

            Jiang Cheng sat up. “No, stop, wait!!”

            But Wei Wuxian had already slipped outside. He didn’t want to take the same route as last night. He had concluded that the tree wasn’t worth it; it honestly took too long and was too much work, especially if Lan Wangji was just going to be on the other side waiting for him again. Wei Wuxian had been pulling leaves out of his hair all day.

            Forget about the tree, he’d decided; he had found another place that looked promising.

            However, he had barely made it more than a few steps away from his room before a voice behind him muttered, “It is as though you are getting caught on purpose.”

            Wei Wuxian whirled around to see Lan Wangji on the main path behind him. “Lan Zhan! Why are you—how did you—” He stopped when he realized he’d forgotten what day it was. On Thursdays and Fridays, Lan Wangji’s patrol route took him right past the guest disciple’s rooms, at exactly this time. Of course, it’s Thursday…

            Wei Wuxian quickly stood upright and folded arms behind his back. As he tilted forward, his hair fell over one shoulder. That, combined with his insatiable grin and wide eyes, gave him an almost boyish innocence. “Lan Zhan! I was just looking for you. I knew it was Thursday and that you’d be passing by. I was thinking, why don’t I come on patrol with you?! I bet it’ll be a lot more fun that way, and then I can—”

            Lan Wangji looked straight ahead. “In the Cloud Recesses, we sleep at nine and rise at—”

            “At five, I know, I know…”

            Lan Wangji, “It is after nine. Go to bed.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed heavily. “Fine, fine, fine…” Well, at least he didn’t punish—

            Lan Wangji, “Copy Righteousness an additional time.”

            Wei Wuxian gaped. “But I didn’t even do anything!” Yet.

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply. He passed Wei Wuxian and continued on his route.

            Wei Wuxian watched him go and then sighed up at the sky. The worst part of this whole thing was admitting to Jiang Cheng that he’d been right.

            As soon as he opened the door, as expected, Jiang Cheng was giving him a smug look. No doubt he’d heard the whole conversation. “Back so soon? Must be a new record.”

            Wei Wuxian fell on his own bed. “Shut up. There’s gotta be a way out of here!”

            Jiang Cheng shook his head. “You bring so much shame upon our sect. Can’t you just go to class and do your work like everyone else? Is it really so hard for you to behave?”

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s not like you don’t know how boring it is here.”

            Jiang Cheng rolled over. “Just go to bed, would you? We have to get up early.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed. Oh well. There’s always tomorrow night.

***

Wei Wuxian was absolutely positive. This time for sure, Lan Wangji wasn’t around. He had already seen him talking with his brother on the other side of the Cloud Recesses. It wasn’t yet nine, and so his patrol hadn’t started. Wei Wuxian knew he would have to have the worst luck in the world to run into him this time.

            Still, since it was a bit early, several people were on the path. He had to edge around the outskirts of the Cloud Recesses, wary of alerting anyone to his activities. By the time he reached the border, he knew he was in the clear. Grinning widely, he gripped the wall, hoisted himself over, and landed outside. He wasted no time, quickly running down the path with a giddy laugh.

            He made it to Caiyi Town and bought some liquor just before their shop closed. He drank one of the jars on the way back up the mountain, enjoying his freedom.

            Chuckling to himself, he said aloud, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, if only you hadn’t been talking to your brother. You might have caught me, but…you…” Wei Wuxian trailed off and stopped when he heard a faint sound echo over to him. He misheard—he had to have misheard. He was already this close to the Cloud Recesses, there was no way there was a wild—

            He heard the sound again, a low growl. Slowly, Wei Wuxian looked to his left. His heart was hammering in his chest.

            The dog had been chewing on something in the woods, content with its capture, but Wei Wuxian had been making too much noise. As Wei Wuxian watched, petrified, the dog emerged from the trees, snarling with a dripping maw. It was massive, taller than even his waist with powerful haunches and large paws. For a split second, Wei Wuxian was frozen in place, and then, thoughtlessly, he took off running.

            Inside the Cloud Recesses, Lan Wangji had just started his patrol. It was close to ten now, so the sect was quiet and calm. The rooms where the guest disciples slept were all dark and silent, even Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng’s. Lan Wangji passed by the little cottages on his route. His hand rested on the hilt of his sword to keep it still as he walked. When he reached the barrier, he checked that it was still functioning properly.

            He was just turning around to continue on his path when he heard a faint shout. It drew his gaze to the entrance of the Cloud Recesses. An instant later, a figure came barreling up the mountain path, running as though their life depended on it. They were carrying two small jars that clacked together noisily with every step.

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened as soon as he realized who it was. His fingers tightened on Bichen’s hilt to the point that his knuckles were pale. He opened his mouth to rescind permission from Wei Wuxian’s jade token of entry until tomorrow morning at seven, but he hesitated when he saw the look on Wei Wuxian’s face.

            Wei Wuxian had seen Lan Wangji at the same time. He didn’t have the presence of mind to feel embarrassed yet. All he saw was someone to save him, and so he shouted, “Lan Zhan!!! Help me!!!”

            Lan Wangji stepped outside the barrier. He still appeared indifferent, but his eyebrows twitched very faintly, drawing a little closer together. “Wei Ying? What is—”

            Wei Wuxian meant to go around him. However, seeing Wei Wuxian run straight towards him with no visible intention of stopping, Lan Wangji tried to move aside. He picked the wrong side, unfortunately, and Wei Wuxian crashed into him, sending them both tumbling to the ground inside the Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian landed hard on top of him, panting ridiculously fast.

            Lan Wangji grew as tense as a board. He was certain Wei Wuxian had done that on purpose and seethed through his teeth, “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t remain there for long, scrambling off Lan Wangji to the ground. He whipped around, crawling backwards almost clumsily. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, help me, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji stood angrily, brushing his clothes off. He was about to storm away when he glanced down and realized Wei Wuxian wasn’t kidding this time. He was rather surprised; after all, he had seen Wei Wuxian deal with water ghouls and even a waterborne abyss without batting an eye. He had assumed there was nothing the carefree boy feared. But behind Wei Wuxian’s pale expression was genuine terror.

            Lan Wangji glanced back at the barrier. “What is—”

            A low bark cut him off. A massive, wild-looking dog paced before the gates of the Cloud Recesses, growing menacingly.

            Wei Wuxian yelped in response to the sound. He immediately jumped up and grabbed Lan Wangji’s arm, squeezing it for dear life. “Help me!!!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t like to be touched. At such an expectedly tight grasp, he reacted instinctively, wresting his arm away. He tried to put distance between himself and Wei Wuxian, but Wei Wuxian was simultaneously trying to use him as a shield. After being grabbed yet again, Lan Wangji’s patience slipped away, and he said firmly, “Stop! It cannot get through the barrier!” He looked irritably at Wei Wuxian but faltered once more at the look of true fear in the other boy’s eyes. Composing himself and his tone, he repeated, “Wei Ying. It cannot get through the barrier.”

            Wei Wuxian’s mind was rather disordered at the moment, which is why he hadn’t yet noticed the obvious. His hands were still half-outstretched to Lan Wangji, ready to grab him if the dog tried to bite him, but he saw that Lan Wangji was indeed correct. The dog was blocked outside the entryway, growling and pawing at the dirt as it paced. Whenever it tried to enter, it was pushed back by an invisible force.

            Lan Wangji, “It is after curfew. Why were you…” He hesitated when he saw that, in the fall, the jars of Emperor’s Smile Wei Wuxian had brought back had been smashed on the ground. The fact that Wei Wuxian hadn’t noticed told Lan Wangji everything he needed to know.

            He looked at Wei Wuxian again. The other boy was visibly shaken. His skin was pale and sweaty despite the cool night, and his eyes were a bit red, locked onto the beast lurking outside. His hands were still outstretched, as though to grab for him, but his fingers were shaking badly. Suibian had fallen a foot away, seemingly forgotten by its owner.

            Lan Wangji sighed quietly. He looked at the dog outside. “Go.”

            It was only one toneless word, but the animal looked up at him and saw something inviolable in his eyes. With a low huff, it turned around and ran away.

            Lan Wangji turned to Wei Wuxian. “It is gone.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t seem to hear him.

            “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s wide eyes flickered to his.

            Lan Wangji repeated quietly, “It is gone.”

            Wei Wuxian swallowed and then forced an uneven laugh. “S-so it is…It was no match for the powerful Lan Er-Gongzi!”

            Lan Wangji picked Suibian up and held it out. “It is past curfew. Go to bed.”

            Wei Wuxian took his sword back shakily. After a moment of consideration, he wiped his face with his sleeve. “So it is. Er, Lan Zhan…um…”

            Lan Wangji, “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian, “It…for sure can’t…can’t get through, right?”

            Lan Wangji looked at him. “No. It cannot.”

            The firmness of his answer seemed to put Wei Wuxian at ease. “Right. That’s…good. Okay.” He chuckled, the sound a little high. “Good thing for these jade tokens, huh? Good…good policy.”

            After a moment, Lan Wangji repeated quietly, “Go to bed.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded. He gripped his sword sheath with both hands and left.

            Lan Wangji watched him for a moment and looked down. The jars of Emperor’s Smile lay in several jagged pieces. The liquor had already seeped into the ground, staining the pebbles underfoot. With an indifferent expression, Lan Wangji began to clean it up.

            By the time Wei Wuxian got back to his room, he felt like a complete and genuine idiot; how could he ever have the face to tease Lan Wangji again after this? Not only had he fled from a dog and screamed for help, but he’d even grabbed at Lan Wangji like a child. Ugh…My head hurts, but not half as much as my pride.

            It woke Jiang Cheng when Wei Wuxian came in. He rolled over to see his shixiong with pale skin and wild eyes. He sat up in bed at once. “What happened to you?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Nothing happened. Go back to sleep.”

            Jiang Cheng squinted at him. “What’s wrong with your voice? Did you run into Lan Er-Gongzi again? What did he do?”

            Wei Wuxian scoffed, “What could he do to me? You think I can’t handle Lan Zhan? Look, I-I’ll tell you about it tomorrow; I’m exhausted.”

            Jiang Cheng’s eyebrows twitched. He watched Wei Wuxian get into bed fully dressed without even taking off his boots. His fingers were pale, clutching his sword for dear life. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen Wei Wuxian look so bad. Well, no, he could. It was the last time he’d seen a—

            Jiang Cheng, “You ran into a dog?”

            Wei Wuxian was quiet for a moment and then gave a humorless snort, “Who knew I had such bad luck.”

            Jiang Cheng would have laughed at him in another circumstance, but he seemed really shaken. “Are you hurt?”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “No…of course not. I passed through the barrier before it…caught me.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You mean it was outside? Was it wild? I haven’t seen any wild—”

            Wei Wuxian rolled over. He forced another laugh to sound exasperated, “Jiang Cheng, I already said I was too tired to explain it all. I’ll tell you about it tomorrow, okay?”

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the door. Wei Wuxian had locked it, which he had never done before. “Well…you’re fine now. It can’t get through the barrier.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I know…thanks. Good night.”

            Jiang Cheng seen Wei Wuxian terrified of little, domesticated dogs before, but this was different. Despite Wei Wuxian’s attempts to appear normal, he could see how pale his skin was. He realized it must have been either wild or large, possibly both. He’d never seen or heard of any such dogs near the Cloud Recesses, but he’d also never seen Wei Wuxian look so bad after encountering a small dog. He was quiet for a long time before he replied, “Yeah…good night.”

***

When Lan Wangji got to the Library Pavilion the next morning, he was somewhat surprised to see Wei Wuxian already seated properly and working, his head down. He glanced up at Lan Wangji briefly when he entered before lowering his eyes to his page again.

            Lan Wangji sat opposite him as always and got started on his own assignment.

            It was painfully quiet to Wei Wuxian, making him feel even more awkward—which was rare. He never felt awkward. He hated it.

            Logically, he knew Lan Wangji wasn’t the type to laugh out loud at people—he was far too reserved and good-mannered for that—but what must he think of him now?  

            On the other side of the table, Lan Wangji also thought it was weird. For weeks, he had rebuffed Wei Wuxian’s comments, notes, jokes, and general misbehavior. Now that Wei Wuxian was finally quiet, the atmosphere felt stiff.

            Wei Wuxian finally couldn’t take it anymore. After a long stretch of silence, he dropped his brush and looked up. “If you’re going to laugh or anything, could you go ahead and get it out of the way? I feel like I’m on pins and needles.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t look up from his work, though his brush seemed to hesitate very slightly on one of its strokes. “Laugh at what?”

            Wei Wuxian sighed heavily, “So you’re going to make me say it…Last night obviously.” He sighed a second time and rambled, “You see, I-I have this thing about dogs, even really little dogs, and Jiang Cheng always laughs at me because it’s so stupid. But well, I didn’t mean to charge at you or knock you down or anything—that was completely accidental. But anyway, I know I’ve messed with you a lot, and this is a great opportunity for you to get back at me, so I guess I just wanted to say it’s okay if you want to laugh, and I won’t get mad or anything. I promise!”

            Lan Wangji seemed indifferent, like he couldn’t care less about what had happened last night. In a monotoned voice, he replied, “It is neither funny nor stupid.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked. “A-ah? I…ran away from a dog. Knocked you to the ground. Even grabbed onto you like some sort of damsel in distress. I-I mean, it is a little funny, even I think it’s funny…”

            Lan Wangji turned a page in his book and began another line. After a moment, he glanced up at Wei Wuxian. “You are afraid of dogs.”

            Wei Wuxian swallowed and nodded, his gaze darting away briefly.

            Lan Wangji returned to his work. “I do not find that funny.”

            Wei Wuxian stared at him for a very long time. Afterwards, he broke into a grin. He relaxed a little and tentatively teased, “Well, with your sense of humor, I don’t think you find anything funny. I’ve said so many funny things to you every day, and you’ve never laughed even once.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched faintly as Wei Wuxian returned to normal.

            Wei Wuxian misinterpreted his expression and mused, “Wuliao, right? Boring, pathetic, ridiculous, not worth responding to? Ah, I’ve said it all already. What will you say now?”

            Lan Wangji dipped his brush in ink. “Copy it an additional time.”

            Wei Wuxian stopped laughing. “Ah?!”

            Lan Wangji, “You broke curfew. Copy it an additional time.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked. He was about to argue, but then he remembered. Not only had he broken curfew, but he’d obviously brought Emperor’s Smile back with him. It was only that morning that he’d remembered the jars he’d left broken on the path. But when he’d gone to clean them up, they were already gone.

            Wei Wuxian glanced down. I tried to bribe him twice before not to say anything, and he got so mad, he even had us both hit with the discipline staff. But now…why isn’t he saying anything about the wine? He pressed his lips together to fight a smile. Huh, I guess Lan Zhan isn’t as stiff as he seems. Don’t tell me he’s actually warming up to me?! I suppose it’s a bit shameless to think of it like that. Then…what was it? What it because of the dog? Because I was afraid? Why didn’t he punish me for the wine, too?  

            Wei Wuxian picked up his brush. He looked at Lan Wangji before laughing softly, “Alright, Lan Zhan, I’ll copy it again…”

            Lan Wangji glanced up at him after he got back to work. His gaze drifted slowly to Wei Wuxian’s smile. After a moment, he returned to his own assignment.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji was dreaming. Part of him knew it, but he couldn’t bring himself to care.

            Wei Wuxian sat opposite him, talking a mile a minute. Lan Wangji couldn’t look away.

            Wei Wuxian noticed as he glanced up. “Haha, Lan Zhan! You’re finally looking at me!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips moved slowly.  “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head. “What’s wrong, Lan Zhan? Haha, wait, did I really bore you to tears?! I thought that was just an expression!”

            Lan Wangji reached for him across the table. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “It’s okay, Lan Zhan! I’m not mad.”

            Lan Wangji couldn’t reach him, as though stopped by an invisible force. He repeated his name.

            Wei Wuxian’s smile grew brighter. “It’s okay, Lan Zhan. Don’t cry. I know you did your best.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers shook, outstretched.

            Wei Wuxian’s laughter rang like bells. The sound was carefree, youthful. “You never wanted to look at me before, and now you can’t look away, hahaha. You’re always like this, Lan Zhan! You never say what you want when you want it. Don’t worry, though, I’m not mad. I liked the game, hahaha.”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying, I—”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand and stood. He walked to the door, but Lan Wangji was stuck in place. “You were always so fun to play with. I’m sorry I got so serious there for a while. I’ll be better next time!”

            Lan Wangji, “Please, wait—”

            Wei Wuxian, “You even said please?! Wow! But I have to go, Lan Zhan! Class is starting soon; your uncle will give me another lecture if I’m late.”

            “Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian smiled at him from the doorway. “It’s okay, Lan Zhan, really. Tell me next time.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes opened slowly. For a second, he thought he saw a red ribbon fluttering by the bed. But when he reached for it, it disappeared. 

            Outside, guest cultivators were walking by in clusters, talking loudly. “Did you hear the news? The siege is over. It only lasted a few hours.”

            “What happened to the Yiling Laozu, then?”

            “Wei Wuxian? He died last night.”

***

A cold wind blew across the mountaintop. Scattered with it were the fresh scents of ash and blood.

            Lan Wangji sat in the center of what had once been a field of radishes. Everything had been trampled or burned. The buildings around him were charred black with soot.

            The soft notes of the guqin rose over the field and were carried away with the wind, but there was no response. No matter how many times he played the song, there was never any response.

            Lan Wangji stared at the mouth of the cave beyond the burned-down houses. Slowly, he put the guqin away and stood. Blood seeped through his bandages, dying his robes a deep crimson.

            The inside of the cave was silent. Papers, compasses, talismans, and flags lay scattered across the floor. Lan Wangji walked carefully so as to not step on any of them.

            He could barely see straight. He scanned the stone beds and floor, searching for something that was not there.

            He stopped by one of the beds. A piece of paper rested atop it. Notes were scribbled in messy handwriting, describing the function of a talisman he had been working on. Lan Wangji’s fingers drifted over the characters.

            When he played the guqin again, the notes reverberated back to him, echoing grief. Still, no one replied. The last note faded, and the cave grew silent once more.

            Lan Wangji stood slowly.

            Outside, it had begun to rain. The crimson backs of his robes faded to pink as the storm soaked him through. He stopped in the middle of the road and closed his eyes.

            The rain grew harder. It beat against him, drowning everything else out. For a long time, he couldn’t move.

            A soft cough somehow managed to carry over the storm. Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed open.

            “Xian-gege…”

            Lan Wangji’s tone was unsteady. “A-Yuan?”

            “Xian-gege…”

            Lan Wangji followed the voice to a hollowed-out tree. He hurried to pull the toddler out. A-Yuan fell limp against him, shivering and crying. Lan Wangji shielded him from the rain with his own body, pressing his fingers against the child’s forehead. It was far too warm.

            A-Yuan’s eyes were shut, his brow furrowed. He coughed a name weakly and raised an arm. A broken toy butterfly remained clasped in his trembling fingers.

            Lan Wangji brought the child inside the cave, found one of the blankets on a stone bed, and quickly wrapped him in it.

            Both freezing and burning, A-Yuan started crying once more, “Xian-gege, Popo…”

            Lan Wangji picked the child up and carried him out into the storm.

            His eyes passed over the burned houses and soiled fields and landed on a small, muddy pond. All that remained were two small lotus leaves which lay wilted and forgotten.

            Lan Wangji’s vision blurred. He held the trembling child away from the rain, summoned Bichen, and flew away.

Chapter Text

When Wei Wuxian woke up, it was well before dawn. He smiled as he realized Lan Wangji was still wrapped around him in the same position they had fallen asleep in. He had once joked that Lan Wangji seemed incapable of sleeping if he wasn’t holding onto Wei Wuxian in some way, but it didn’t seem too far off.

            Usually by this point in the night, Wei Wuxian would have broken from his hold and somehow wound up spread across all four corners of the bed. He must’ve been sleeping deeply, though, because he hadn’t moved an inch.

            He was facing Lan Wangji, breathing in the soft scent of sandalwood that clung to his clothes. Lan Wangji’s arms were laced around him, hugging him gently. One of Wei Wuxian’s legs had wound up between Lan Wangji’s. One of his arms pillowed his head while the other lay across Lan Wangji’s waist. He lifted that arm now, pressing his fingers gently to the center of Lan Wangji’s chest. His heartbeat was even and slow in sleep. Wei Wuxian didn’t know since when, but it had become one of his favorite sounds in the world.

            Wei Wuxian moved his head back a little, admiring Lan Wangji. During the day, his expression was indifferent with others, though with Wei Wuxian, he had stopped hiding his affection. It was apparent in his eyes, in the slight curve of his smile when Wei Wuxian did or said something funny. Now, his expression was just as soft, the edges smoothed out.

            Wei Wuxian smiled. He traced his thumb against Lan Wangji’s lower lip. He wanted more than anything to remain held in this embrace, but there was a small ache in his back from not moving all night, and he had a slightly more pressing ache in his bladder that made it impossible to stay.

            He tried very carefully to extricate himself from Lan Wangji, but the latter shifted in his sleep. He pulled Wei Wuxian impossibly closer, breathing out contentedly.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted. He whispered, “My good Hanguang-Jun, I have to get up.”

            Lan Wangji seemed to react to his voice, exhaling softly again.

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “Lan Zhan, you’re making me feel guilty.” He kissed the center of Lan Wangji’s chest and slowly worked his way backwards. He picked Lan Wangji’s hand up off his waist and laid it down carefully on the bed. He eased his leg out from between Lan Wangji’s and scooted back until he was free. “I’ll be right back, Lan Er-Gege.”

            Even in sleep, the name made Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitch. Wei Wuxian snickered to himself and climbed over Lan Wangji to get out of bed.

            He swiftly took care of what he needed to, got some water, and was on his way back to bed when he happened to glance outside. There were many buildings between his room and the lotus lake, but there was a small crevice through which he could see the sparkling water. And right in front of the water, sitting on a fence, was the dark silhouette of Jin Ling.

            Wei Wuxian thought this was rather odd. He found his outer robe, pulled it on, and checked that Lan Wangji was still asleep. Tying his hair up in his usual daytime style, he slipped outside and headed for the lake.

            As he got close, though, he froze.

            Jin Ling was crying.

            He wasn’t doing it very loudly, but he sniffed every other shallow breath and wiped his eyes with his sleeve.

            Wei Wuxian’s voice betrayed his concern. “Jin Ling? What’s wrong?”

            Jin Ling hadn’t expected anyone to be awake at such a late hour. He jumped to his feet and wiped his face. “Noth—” He cleared his throat when his voice came out high. “Nothing. I’m fine. Why are you here? Shouldn’t you be asleep?”

            His tone was so accusatory in its defensiveness that Wei Wuxian might have laughed if Jin Ling hadn’t been crying. Instead, he leaned back against the fence the boy had been sitting on. “Did you have a bad dream?”

            Jin Ling crossed his arms and scowled across the lake. “So what if I did? I’m not a child, you know. I don’t need to be coddled.”

            Wei Wuxian held his hands up. “You’re right, gege, you’re right. Forgive my impertinence.”

            Jin Ling shook his head. “You’re so annoying.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You keep telling me that. I’m going to start to think it’s true. Come on, A-Ling. Talk to me.”

            Jin Ling kicked at the dirt, but the name seemed to soften him a bit. He finally mumbled, “It’s stupid.”

            Wei Wuxian shrugged. “Probably.”

            Jin Ling was surprised enough to look at him. He scoffed, “You’re supposed to say that it’s not stupid!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Says who?”

            Jin Ling shook his head and wiped his nose with his sleeve. “I pity Hanguang-Jun for having to put up with you every day.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, feigning seriousness. “So do I, but he puts on a brave face. Now, tell me, what’d you dream about?”

            Jin Ling, “Who said it was a bad dream?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I did. Unless you tell me otherwise, that’s what I’m left to assume.”

            Jin Ling muttered, “You really are annoying.”

            Wei Wuxian quickly retorted, “And you really are a brat. Tell me what you dreamed about, you brat, or I’m gonna go back to snuggling with Hanguang-Jun.”

            Jin Ling gave an embarrassed huff and turned his face away. He parted his lips to reply, but after a few moments, he couldn’t settle on what to say. “You’re so…Ugh!”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “Then give me something else to talk about.”

            Jin Ling sighed, “Fine. It was a dream.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You don’t say.”

            Jin Ling, “But it wasn’t a bad one.”

            Wei Wuxian waited for him to continue, but he didn’t. “Then why did it upset you?”

            Jin Ling leaned back against the fence beside Wei Wuxian. “Because…” He sighed heavily. “Because it was about my mom.”

            Wei Wuxian grew quiet.

            Jin Ling, “I know I didn’t know her, but…but the picture you drew is so vivid. I guess that image…worked its way into my dreams. I dreamt she was talking to me.” Tears brimmed Jin Ling’s eyes and spilled over, but he ignored them. “I don’t even remember what she said. She was just sitting beside me, talking very quietly. Then, she smiled. She kissed my forehead and whispered something to me…that…that she loved me…and then she was gone. I woke up.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled very softly, “I’ve had similar dreams.”

            Jin Ling looked at him. He sniffed, “You have?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, holding his gaze.

            Jin Ling seemed to be frustrated with himself. He looked back at the lake as his tears ran faster. “I don’t know why it made me so sad. I didn’t even know her, and I don’t know very much about her, but I felt so…lonely when I woke up, and I just wanted to see her again.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t know what to do about the latter, but he could rectify the former. “Then let’s talk about her. I said I would with you, whenever you wanted.”

            Jin Ling sneaked a look at him. “You…really wouldn’t mind?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Of course not. The night you first asked, I was caught off guard. I didn’t have many stories to tell you, but I’ve thought of more since then. Would you like to hear them?”

            Jin Ling nodded and turned to face him.

            Wei Wuxian wished very much that Lan Wangji was beside him so he could hold his hand. He continued with a smile, “I never told you about my second night in Lotus Pier, did I?”

            Jin Ling shook his head.

            Wei Wuxian settled down more comfortably. “When your grandfather brought me here, your mom was about twelve or so. She was really small for her age, slender and not very strong—this will be relevant later. So, Jiang Cheng and I didn’t get along at first, which I know is very surprising.” Jin Ling snorted at his tone. “Anyway, so we got into a bit of a fight, and I ran away. I ended up climbing a tree because I was so upset. I wasn’t there for very long when your mom came out to find me. I remember she was dressed in robes so white, it was like she was glowing. She held a little lantern and called for me. When she finally found me, she tried to get me to come down.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Only, I was still upset, so I wouldn’t come down. I ended up falling after a while. She tried to catch me, but I hit the ground and hurt my leg. She was so worried that she carried me on her back. We were close to Lotus Pier again when we found Jiang Cheng crying in a ditch. He’d been trying to find me, too, but had fallen. And so your mom cleaned the wound on his head and picked him up.”

            Wei Wuxian’s vision had gone a little blurry, but his smile didn’t fade as he pressed his fingers into the center of his chest. “She was only a kid herself, and yet she carried two large children with her, one on her back, one on her front. We must’ve been very heavy for her because she had to stop every few steps and catch her breath. But she didn’t complain, and she didn’t put either of us down. She carried us all the way home.” He glanced at Jin Ling. He was watching Wei Wuxian without even blinking. “She wasn’t stubborn like me or Jiang Cheng, but when something really mattered to her, she wouldn’t settle. It was only my second night in Lotus Pier, and already, she treated me like her own brother.”

            Wei Wuxian swiftly wiped his eyes with his sleeve, complaining, “This body really is too sensitive. Anyway, I have another story for you. I think you’ll like this one especially because I get hit with a paddle in it.”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes but edged closer. “I don’t blame whoever did it.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “You brat. Listen up.” And with that, he began the story.

            The moon passed over them slowly, glinting off the lake. As Wei Wuxian told story after story, his eyes became brighter, his laugh louder, his voice stronger. Jin Ling’s tears eventually stopped as well. He laughed at the right times or shook his head or made a comment that reminded Wei Wuxian of Jiang Cheng’s quick wit.  

            It was almost dawn when Jin Ling’s eyelids began to grow heavy and his responses were reduced to hums and chuckles.

            Wei Wuxian smiled and nudged his shoulder. “Okay, okay, that’s enough for now. My throat’s gonna hurt if I talk any more. Go to bed, or your uncle will use Zidian on me for keeping you up all night.”

            Jin Ling snorted, too tired to argue. “Thanks…Wei-jiujiu.”

            Wei Wuxian’s smile softened. “Any time, A-Ling. Really. You can always come to me with stuff like this.” He added with a snicker, “Well, anytime during the day.”

            His meaning wasn’t lost on Jin Ling, who huffed and shoved Wei Wuxian so hard he almost fell off the fence. “Why do you have to ruin everything?! Ugh! You’re so inappropriate!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed as he steadied himself. “Hurry up and go away or I’ll keep talking about it.”

            Jin Ling was quick to cover his ears with his hands. “This is why I call you annoying! Goodbye!” He stormed off to his room, mumbling under his breath.

            Wei Wuxian’s laugh softened. He turned back to the lake. With Jin Ling finally gone, his vision blurred. His smile fell away, and he closed his eyes.          

            Only a few moments passed before a quiet voice behind him mumbled, “I had forgotten about that day in the market.”

            Wei Wuxian turned around to see Jiang Cheng. He had been leaning against a building in the shadows, but now he pushed off it and walked closer. “How long were you standing there?”

            Jiang Cheng replied, “Long enough.”

            After dinner, he had taken a few jars of wine and gone into his office to work. The more the drank, though, the less he felt like working. In the end, he had been on his way to his own room when he’d seen Jin Ling by the lake. He went over to him but Wei Wuxian had beaten him to it. He had thought about leaving, but then he’d heard who Wei Wuxian and Jin Ling were talking about, and so he stayed.

            In truth, he was a little drunk, and there were a few things he wanted to say that he couldn’t say sober. Still, he wasn’t one to come out and say such things at random, so he instead asked, “What made you remember it?”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at him. “The day at the market? I remembered it yesterday when I took Hanguang-Jun to try their steamed buns.”

            Jiang Cheng hesitated before he sat down beside Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian glanced at him again, surprised. “You’re drunk?”

            Jiang Cheng shrugged. “Not really. It’s worn off a bit.”

            Both looked straight ahead. Silence fell over them for a long time.

            Finally, Jiang Cheng said, “It wasn’t your fault we got caught by the old man near the lake, though.”

            Wei Wuxian looked at him. “Mm?”

            Jiang Cheng, “The night we had too much to drink and shot paper kites in the fields beyond the lotus lakes. You told Jin Ling yours was the arrow that hit the old man’s roof, and that’s what made him come out and yell at us.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, confused. “Yeah, it was, wasn’t it?”

            Jiang Cheng shook his head, a flicker of a smile ghosting his lips. “It was mine.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked. “Ah?!”

            Jiang Cheng snorted, looking straight ahead. “Yours hit the kite. Mine missed. But you were so drunk, you didn’t even notice.”

            Wei Wuxian was appalled. “But you said it was my fault!!”

            Jiang Cheng’s smile grew a fraction broader. “Well, it was your fault we were all falling-over drunk. And it was you who decided we should shoot paper kites in the middle of the night. And it was you who picked the location.”

            Wei Wuxian scoffed. For a moment, he forgot everything and shoved Jiang Cheng’s shoulder. “You brat!! He hit me over a dozen times with that paddle!”

            Jiang Cheng snorted, “You were too drunk to feel it anyway, and he was so old, he couldn’t have hit you too hard.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I can’t believe this! This whole time, I thought it was my arrow.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I’m sure it’s kept you up at night.”

            Wei Wuxian retorted, “I wonder what else you haven’t told me.”

            It was a poorly thought-out comment, but Jiang Cheng didn’t respond to it. He looked down. He had forgotten many of the things Wei Wuxian had mentioned. For so long, he had been so angry that he couldn’t afford to think of happier days.

            He said quietly, “Do you remember the day A-Jie took us to find a gift for our grandmother?” He hadn’t used the name in years; it felt reverent now.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled. He looked away as his eyes filled again. “I only remember that when we gave it to her, she fainted. I don’t remember what it was, though.”

            Jiang Cheng’s lips twitched. His gaze was fixed on the lake. “I don’t remember, either. But afterwards, A-Jie said you probably shouldn’t ever pick out presents for old people again.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed. His fingers pressed into the center of his chest. “I thought she would’ve liked it! Whatever it was…But I remember Shijie’s present was a lot better.” He didn’t mean to use the name in front of Jiang Cheng, but it slipped out.

            Jiang Cheng didn’t react. “She was good at that sort of thing.” He looked further away. He almost seemed to smirk after a moment’s thought. “Do you remember the time we went to Meishan to find the silver—”

            Wei Wuxian realized where he was going and loudly said, “Ah, ah, ah!!! You said you’d never bring that up again! We made a pact!”

            Jiang Cheng snorted, “If you had just behaved yourself, it wouldn’t be such an embarrassing story.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed heavily. “How will I ever move on when you and Lan Zhan always remind me of all the dumb things I did as a kid??”

            Jiang Cheng glanced at him. Wei Wuxian’s voice was saccharine on the name; Jiang Cheng supposed it always had been. “Not like you gave us much else to talk about. There’s too much material there.”

            Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. “Shut up. Everyone’s like that when they’re a kid.”

            Jiang Cheng raised an eyebrow.

            Wei Wuxian corrected, “Most everyone. Some people. A-a few people. Okay fine, it was just me.”

            Jiang Cheng finally laughed. But when he glanced at Wei Wuxian, he realized his eyes still hadn’t quite dried. His fingers were pressed so hard into the center of his chest that the tips were pale. Even as he smiled and laughed, he couldn’t manage to control the ache deep within his chest.

            Jiang Cheng thought he understood.

            In the past, Wei Wuxian hadn’t been so free with his emotions, especially not sadness. Even now, he seemed to be trying very hard to hold back, but it was more difficult than it had been before. Perhaps the blame was on the new body; perhaps it was harder to control.

            Or perhaps, even after all these years, it still didn’t hurt any less.

            Jiang Cheng looked away. There had once been a time when he and his shixiong had told each other everything. Whether it was embarrassing or stupid or inappropriate, they shared it all. Now, he was still a bit drunk, and his inhibitions were lowered.

            Quietly, he said, “I don’t want to be mad at you anymore.”

            Wei Wuxian looked down.

            Jiang Cheng, “It was hard. Here, by myself. Everyone was gone.” Part of him knew he wouldn’t say such things sober. Part of him was glad he was drunk. “I couldn’t understand it at the time, why you’d left. Even now, I don’t entirely get it, but…seeing you now, I realize it wasn’t an easy choice for you to make, either.”

            Wei Wuxian was staring at the lake, but he couldn’t really see it clearly anymore. “We don’t have to get into this.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I want to. If I don’t now, I won’t later, and I’ve held it in too long as it is.” He exhaled slowly, gathering his thoughts. “I always knew how much you loved A-Jie. She was your sister, too, after all. I suppose, at the time when you left, I was bitter. It felt like you had abandoned us for people you barely knew. Like you had outgrown Lotus Pier and us. But that day…at Burial Mounds…I saw the lotus plants you had been trying to grow.”

            The statement hung in the air. Wei Wuxian didn’t want to talk about this; he didn’t want to think about it at all, but he understood why Jiang Cheng might need to.

            Jiang Cheng, “I was too angry at the time to understand what it meant, and then I forgot about it. I only remembered when I saw the picture you had drawn for A-Ling. You never remember anything, but even now, she’s still so clear to you.” He shook his head. “I don’t want to be mad at you anymore. I want…” He didn’t know how to finish the sentence. What he wanted to say, he couldn’t. Such sentimental words were indeed difficult for him; he had never been one for confessions. He looked away, choosing a different way to say what he meant. “You may not think of Lotus Pier as home anymore. I get it. You’re with Hanguang-Jun, and you two have your own lives now. Each to their own path. And I know you don’t want to stay here for good. There’s too much here. But, whenever your travels take you through Yunmeng, you’ll always have a place here. If you want it. I guess that’s all I wanted to say.”

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t find his voice.

            Jiang Cheng didn’t give him much of a chance to reply. “Anyway, it’s late. You’ve always been a bad influence, making people stay up like this.”

            Wei Wuxian parted his lips. It took him a moment to reply. “Being awake at night is more fun.” It was a feeble attempt to seem normal, but it came out smoothly enough.

            Jiang Cheng snorted, “Whatever. I’m going to bed. Oh. Jin Ling wants to have dinner with you and Hanguang-Jun tomorrow. I’ll tell the cooks to make your food spicy enough to make you cry as punishment.”

            Wei Wuxian scoffed, “How is that a punishment? Besides, no spice can make me cry.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Then I’ll add the spices myself, and we’ll see who doesn’t cry.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Finally, an appetizing meal in Lotus Pier.”

            Jiang Cheng shook his head. “You’re absurd.” With that, he left.

            Wei Wuxian stared at the water. He thought about staying, but he wanted Lan Wangji more. He rose unsteadily and walked back to his room. He stepped inside, closed the door, and leaned against it. A moment later, he slid to the floor and pulled his legs up to hug them.

            He didn’t know if he had been noisy or if Lan Wangji had already been awake, but he sat up in bed.

            Though he had probably been asleep, his voice came out evenly. “Wei Ying?” An instant later, he hurried to him and knelt beside him, hands warm on his leg and back. “What happened?”

            Wei Wuxian knocked his forehead against his knees, struggling to hold back. “Ugh…this body really is too sensitive, and not always in a good way…so annoying…”

            Lan Wangji, “…Come here, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian went to him gladly, hugging his neck. Lan Wangji picked him up and held him tightly as he carried him back to the bed. He pulled Wei Wuxian as close as they could get, limbs entangled, hearts beating in unison. Wei Wuxian sighed against his neck.

            “Don’t know why I bother ever going anywhere. I should just stay here, hugged by you forever.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips brushed against his forehead.

            Wei Wuxian tightened his arms. He sniffed and murmured, “I’m cold, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji pulled the blanket over them, running his hand across Wei Wuxian’s back.

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “You’re so quiet, but you always know just what to do to make me feel better.” Already, the ache was lessening.

            Lan Wangji, “Do you want to talk about it?”

            Wei Wuxian played with the front of his clothes. “I was just telling Jin Ling about Shijie again. Then…Jiang Cheng came over.” He felt the way Lan Wangji tensed, perhaps expected a bad ending. Wei Wuxian couldn’t blame him. Lan Wangji had only ever seen Jiang Cheng’s uglier side. “He didn’t say anything bad. It was…nice, actually. Just hurts. He…I think he kind of…apologized? But he was also drunk, so he might not remember it tomorrow.” He sighed heavily. “I miss when things were simple and clear…” He closed his eyes. “Can you hug me a little tighter?”

            Lan Wangji pulled him even closer. He rested his head against Wei Wuxian’s, arms tight enough to make Wei Wuxian feel secure and safe.

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, that’s better…Is it okay if I sleep a little longer?”

            Lan Wangji’s hand rose to his cheek, and he kissed his forehead softly. “Yes.”

            Wei Wuxian snuggled closer. “Okay, good. Don’t let me kick you away. I want to be hugged like this while I sleep, okay, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji nodded slowly. “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed very quietly. He moved his head until he could hear Lan Wangji’s heartbeat and let that gentle rhythm lull him to sleep.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian were pressed together in the grass. Wei Wuxian’s hips grinded down against Lan Wangji’s, earning soft sounds from both of them. Lan Wangji’s hands swam up his sides, clutching at his waist to guide his rolls. Their tongues were entangled, their moans muffled only by each other’s mouths. Wei Wuxian’s hands rested in the grass on either side of Lan Wangji’s head, his knees digging into the soft ground beneath him.

            They had been originally walking with Little Apple to a nearby town, but on the road, Wei Wuxian had made a few teasing comments, Lan Wangji had given him a few long looks, and they’d ended up rolling off the main road and into the bushes. Little Apple was used to this behavior; with a huff, it ambled into another part of the woods to find worthy grass to eat.

            Though they hadn’t been there for very long, Wei Wuxian was panting against Lan Wangji, his eyebrows drawn together in pleasure. He would never get sick of the way Lan Wangji felt against him, nor would he ever tire of the awe that he could make the all-powerful Hanguang-Jun, who was well known for his unwavering discipline and unshakable willpower, completely unravel.

            Lan Wangji lifted his head off the ground, kissing Wei Wuxian back so fervently that it made Wei Wuxian’s limbs feel weak. One of Lan Wangji’s hands lifted to his cheek, fingers curling softly against his skin. It always amazed Wei Wuxian how reverently Lan Wangji could touch him even in such an inappropriate setting. They were, after all, technically in public. It wouldn’t take much for someone to happen upon them.

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t find it in himself to care. At such moments, all he wanted was Lan Wangji—everyone else be damned.

            Wei Wuxian moaned against Lan Wangji’s lips, fingers almost frantically undoing his own sash belt and trousers. He didn’t want to bother with the rest.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened on Wei Wuxian’s waist when Wei Wuxian moved his robes aside too and undid his trousers. He lifted his hips to help, but Wei Wuxian only moved them down enough to make the position work.

            Lan Wangji gasped faintly when Wei Wuxian found his hard length and entered into a staggering rhythm. His hips twitched, and his kiss grew impossibly deeper.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t wait very long before pulling Lan Wangji to him. He honestly didn’t know how they still had the stamina for more—well, no, Lan Wangji could last forever, apparently, so Wei Wuxian was surprised he had enough stamina to continue—since they had already had sex twice that morning before even coming out here.

            Wei Wuxian supposed he really was insatiable; in his defense, though, so was Hanguang-Jun.

            Wei Wuxian cried out as he sank down on Lan Wangji. His faint, answering groan almost made it seem like they hadn’t already done this twice today. Wei Wuxian loved it; he loved every sound Lan Wangji made, loved seeing him fall apart bit by bit until he couldn’t control the words he breathed or the strength of his fingers.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t need long to adjust. Soon, he was moving against Lan Wangji once more, moaning as quietly as he could.

            Finally, they both needed air. Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with a choked whimper, resting his forehead against Lan Wangji’s. Lan Wangji had pressed one foot on the ground, using the leverage to thrust up into him harder. Wei Wuxian moaned as he felt Lan Wangji hit that spot that had him seeing stars.

            He whined, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…fuck, Lan Zhan!”

            One of Lan Wangji’s hands was still pressed to his cheek. His breaths were bursting from him, and Wei Wuxian wondered if it was the excitement of being in a somewhat public place that had Lan Wangji as breathless as him already.

            Lan Wangji seemed able to adapt to any situation. Sometimes, he could drag it out and love Wei Wuxian so slowly that Wei Wuxian was a crying, pleading mess for hours. Sometimes, he could fuck Wei Wuxian so hard that Wei Wuxian couldn’t walk the next day. And sometimes, like now, he could match his quick, urgent movements, control and discipline out the window.

            Suddenly, though, Lan Wangji froze. He grabbed Wei Wuxian’s hip, forcing him to stay still.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered at the loss. “What? What’s wrong?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes were so dilated and heated that it made Wei Wuxian’s weeping length pulse between them. He was looking to his left, at the road.

            Wei Wuxian heard it, too. He grinned evilly and leaned towards Lan Wangji, “Oh…is someone coming?”

            Lan Wangji’s grip at his waist was almost painful as he kept him in place.

            It wasn’t necessarily that Wei Wuxian wanted to get caught, but he couldn’t deny the thrill the threat of it presented.

            So, when a group of people happened to choose that exact spot of the road to stop, Wei Wuxian couldn’t help from snickering.

            It was a group of older men, judging from their voices. There were five of them, each disgruntled and annoyed at the trip they were taking.

            One of them complained, “It’s too hot to be walking so far. We shouldn’t have told them we’d arrive so soon.”

            Another agreed, “It really is too hot. My water’s almost gone.”

            The third man was impatient with the nagging. “We’ll be there soon. It’s not much further up ahead. Let’s take a break here for a bit and catch our breaths.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned down at Lan Wangji. He began to circle his hips and contract his muscles, growing impossibly harder at the shamelessness of the situation.

            Lan Wangji’s breath fell unevenly. He warned very quietly, “Stop moving.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t listen. He never did. “Why? Afraid they might hear us?” He leaned closer to Lan Wangji’s ear. “Afraid they might see us?” He took Lan Wangji’s crimson earlobe between his teeth, humming around it quietly.

            Lan Wangji’s hand tightened on him. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Yes, Hanguang-Jun?” He pulled his head back up to look at him.

            Lan Wangji was panting. Heavy, dilated eyes swept across his features, appearing almost drunken—but even when he was drunk, Lan Wangji didn’t look like this. His lips were reddened from their kiss, his skin slick with sweat. His gaze fell to Wei Wuxian’s mouth. Seconds later, he was surging forward to kiss him, grunting very quietly into it.

            Wei Wuxian certainly hadn’t expected that. He could still hear the men talking on the road when Lan Wangji loosened his grip and let him move.

            Excitement rushed up Wei Wuxian’s spine and pooled low in his stomach. He pushed his tongue into the kiss, tasting Lan Wangji as he chose a fast pace. His own length swayed between them, neglected for the moment. Lan Wangji’s hands fell to the tops of Wei Wuxian’s thighs, gripping him with bruising strength.   

            After several moments, Wei Wuxian couldn’t breathe. He pulled from the kiss, expression contorted as he struggled not to make a sound. Somehow, the act of being quiet when he normally cried out made it even more erotic.

            Lan Wangji’s head fell back to the grass. Wei Wuxian managed to pry his own eyes open to see him, but it was a mistake.

            Lan Wangji was utterly beautiful, and the uncontrolled expression he had during these moments was always too much for Wei Wuxian. He quickly shut his eyes with a flash of pleasure, feeling himself throb with arousal as he resisted a moan, but it was too late; the image was seared into his mind.

            Lan Wangji’s lips were parted. His eyes were closed and his eyebrows had pulled together in pleasure, rendering him a breathtaking sight. 

            Fire climbed across Wei Wuxian’s body. He dropped his head to Lan Wangji’s shoulder, whimpering softly as he struggled to be quiet.

            Lan Wangji panted out a nearly soundless, “Wei Ying,” that had Wei Wuxian seeing stars.

            Wei Wuxian’s lips were parted, his breaths loud as he moved. Sweat ran across his temples, slipping down his neck and back. He whined a soft, “Lan Zhan,” as he pressed his hands to Lan Wangji’s chest and sat up.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed open, taking in the magnetic sight of Wei Wuxian on top of him. Wei Wuxian’s head tipped back, his expression crumpled in pleasure, eyebrows close together, red lips parted. His skin was flushed down his neck, disappearing below his robes. His length was a deep, dark color, the tip of it weeping as it swayed. His long hair was tied back as usual, but it was still long enough to brush against Lan Wangji’s leg as he met Wei Wuxian’s movements.

            It was all far too much. Lan Wangji surged upright, kissing Wei Wuxian with bruising strength as his fingers reached for his wet length. Wei Wuxian bucked and whimpered into the kiss, shaking with need as Lan Wangji’s fist entered a fast pace.

            The men on the road were more or less forgotten. Apart from keeping their volume down, the two made no effort to hide their actions.

            Lan Wangji’s hand tightened around Wei Wuxian the way he liked, and his thumb swept across the tip, collecting the fluid there and dispersing it.

            The downside to this impromptu entanglement was they knew they wouldn’t have access to a bath until later that night. As much as both of them wanted to remain in such a position, they knew they shouldn’t.

            As they swiftly approached the edge, Lan Wangji wrapped an arm around Wei Wuxian’s waist and rolled them over. He pulled out of Wei Wuxian at the same time that Wei Wuxian reached for his length. His fingers encircled it, using the same speed and grip he knew got Lan Wangji off the quickest.

            Lan Wangji broke from the kiss to press his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s neck. As Wei Wuxian’s wrist twisted expertly, he breathed out a strangled version of his name.

            Wei Wuxian wasn’t much better off. He could barely get his mind to focus on pleasuring Lan Wangji, too, so caught up in the way Lan Wangji’s hand moved against him.

            As was almost always the case, Wei Wuxian came first. Pleasure rushed up his spine, and his hearing whited out. His hand froze as his hips bucked into Lan Wangji’s tight grip. His back arched, and his lips parted in a silent cry. He held his breath to contain his sounds, but that only made the feeling more intense, crashing over him again and again in waves.

            Lan Wangji was mouthing at his neck, kissing and licking and biting as he prolonged Wei Wuxian’s pleasure as long as possible.

            When it finally died down, Wei Wuxian realized his hand had stopped. He felt the way Lan Wangji’s length pulsed in his fingers, felt how close he was, but even still, Lan Wangji hadn’t rushed him to continue. Even as his heart melted, he moaned very quietly and picked up a brutal pace.

            Lan Wangji gasped and dropped to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder again. He held his weight up with only one arm, but now that Wei Wuxian was softening and would soon feel sensitive, he dropped his hand to the ground, clutching Wei Wuxian’s robes in his fist.

            Wei Wuxian was almost limp in the aftermath of his orgasm, but he knew Lan Wangji needed just a little more to send him over. He grinned breathlessly and leaned into his ear. “You feel so good in my hand, Lan Zhan; we don’t do it like this often enough. Come on, Lan Er-Gege, come for me.”

            Lan Wangji groaned very softly. “Wei Ying…”

            It sounded like an admonishment, but Wei Wuxian only grinned wider. “Lan Er-Gege, Lan Er-Gege, Lan Er—”

            Lan Wangji covered his mouth with his palm, hips moving almost frantically now. “S-stop.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart flipped at the rare stutter. He realized Lan Wangji was being careful with his hand, because his fingers were still coated in Wei Wuxian’s release. Wei Wuxian grinned, picked his hand up, and dove forward to take Lan Wangji’s first two fingers into his mouth.

            He licked them clean, tasting himself on Lan Wangji’s skin. Lan Wangji was so shocked that he looked up at him. Wei Wuxian moaned around his fingers, giving them the same attention he had given Lan Wangji’s length on countless occasions.

            Lan Wangji’s expression grew almost pained. “Wei Ying—” He dropped his head again. His hips lost their rhythm, and, with one final thrust through Wei Wuxian’s fist, he stilled. He grunted very quietly as Wei Wuxian hummed around his fingers. His breaths burst against Wei Wuxian’s skin. He pulled his fingers away, gripping Wei Wuxian hip as he rode out the remainder of his orgasm, and then he stilled again, holding himself up over Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian waited until Lan Wangji looked up at him and then pulled his own hand up. It was covered in Lan Wangji’s release, too, so he licked it clean, making eye contact with Lan Wangji the whole time. Lan Wangji’s gaze was searing, watching him with a look that said they definitely weren’t done for the day, not by a long shot.

            He surged forward when Wei Wuxian was finished, tasting the mix of their release on Wei Wuxian’s tongue as he kissed him.

            Wei Wuxian hummed into it.

            As their hearts stilled raced, Wei Wuxian felt Lan Wangji fix their clothes. When they were dressed properly again, he moved off Wei Wuxian, landing slowly beside him as he kissed him. For a long time, they stayed like that, enjoying the taste of each other, and then they fell breathlessly apart. Lan Wangji moved to his back, panting as he stared unseeingly at the trees overhead.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, chest heaving. “Fuck, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji panted back, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian realized the voices from the men were gone. He had no idea if they’d been discovered, but he honestly didn’t care. The afterglow was still thrumming through his veins, making everything look hazy and bright.

            Beside him, Lan Wangji laced their fingers together.

            Wei Wuxian mused, “We said every day, but it looks like we more meant every hour.”

            Lan Wangji laughed quietly.

            The sound of it warmed Wei Wuxian’s heart. He looked over to see Lan Wangji gazing at him affectionately. He leaned up on his elbow and, when he kissed him, Wei Wuxian could feel his smile. The kiss was tender and slow, a stark contrast to the way they had moved against each other only moments before. Wei Wuxian laughed softly, delighted. In the past, he never would’ve pictured himself in such a way with Lan Wangji; now, he couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.

Chapter Text

Limpid notes from the dizi soared through the air. Their sweet, gentle melody drifted down the path, echoing back to the two traveling side by side.

            Lan Wangji was listening with a soft look. His gaze was fixed straight ahead and very far away.

            Wei Wuxian was grinning almost too much to play properly. He was watching Lan Wangji, admiring his profile.

            Lan Wangji held Little Apple’s reins in one hand. Of course, he didn’t have to; the donkey knew to follow the path, but it made Wei Wuxian smile when he did, fulfilling the sweet childhood memory he had confided in him late one night.

           The donkey seemed content on the ride; it even seemed to be enjoying the music. For once, it didn’t kick up a fuss for the way Wei Wuxian was sitting on its back.

            It was a bitterly cold winter day. The clouds were so thick that, though it wasn’t yet noon, it seemed as dark as dusk. Wei Wuxian’s fingers felt nearly frozen as he played, but for some reason, he couldn’t bring himself to stop. His nose had long since turned red, and his knuckles hurt with the cold, but he pushed through the discomfort, intent on finishing the song.

            When the last note faded, Lan Wangji looked at Wei Wuxian. Within his eyes was an unexplainably tender look. It was the same look he always gave Wei Wuxian when he played the song written for him so many years ago.

            Wei Wuxian lowered the dizi with a grin. “How is it? Sounds pretty, right?”

            Lan Wangji nodded, gaze fixed on Wei Wuxian’s. After a moment, his eyes fell a little. Wei Wuxian’s skin was especially pale in the cold weather, all but the tip of his nose and his lips, both of which had been flushed a deep red. Even his teeth seemed to chatter. “You are freezing.”

            Wei Wuxian beamed, “Then warm me up!”

            Lan Wangji pressed his lips together, as if to fight a smile, but the smile won. He stopped walking and lifted a hand to Wei Wuxian’s cheek. Wei Wuxian met his kiss eagerly, throwing his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck.

            Little Apple seemed rather put out at the display. The donkey huffed and shifted, pointedly looking in the opposite direction in a remarkably human way.

            Wei Wuxian was quick to deepen the kiss, savoring Lan Wangji’s warmth. He hummed softly. The fingers on his cheek were only a little cold as a thumb swept across his skin.

            Wei Wuxian would have happily stayed there and kissed Lan Wangji until nightfall, but something wet and cold dripped to his cheek. It surprised him enough that he pulled back and looked up.

            At once, a wide grin broke out across his face. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!!! Look, look, look! It’s snowing!!!”

            Lan Wangji seemed far more interested in the excitement in Wei Wuxian’s eyes than the weather. His own gaze grew fonder before he managed to look away.

            Indeed, it was snowing. Large flakes drifted from the sky, showering them in a field of white. Within a matter of moments, the ground shifted from a ruddy brown to a gleaming white.

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s sticking, too!!” He leapt off Little Apple and ran across the road. The donkey’s breath steamed the air in an impatient huff.

            Lan Wangji dropped the reins, fed the animal an apple to placate it, and followed Wei Wuxian.

            The trees on either side of the road weren’t too thick. In the time it took Lan Wangji to feed the donkey, Wei Wuxian had already broken through the woods and emerged in a large field. He held his arms out and tossed his head back to look at the sky. The snow was falling even heavier now, so thick that he could no longer see the mountains in the distance or even the road they had been traveling on.

            Wei Wuxian was beyond delighted. He jumped around, his laugh carefree and youthful.

            A piece of Lan Wangji always softened whenever he heard it. He stopped in the field and watched.

            Wei Wuxian was trying to catch snowflakes. “I’ve never seen snow like this!!! In Lotus Pier, it almost never snowed. Even in the Cloud Recesses, it wasn’t like this! We must be so far north already!!!” He stooped to the ground and managed to gather a ball of snow. He compacted it and gave Lan Wangji a playful look. “It would be criminal to waste such an opportunity, Hanguang-Jun. You also know this, right? Let’s have a snowball fight!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together, his gaze affectionate.

            Wei Wuxian’s laugh came out almost like a giggle. He raised an eyebrow in a challenge, “But would the great Hanguang-Jun even agree to throw such things at me? After all, he loves me far too much to hurt me…” He chuckled again. “Ah, well…” He pretended to walk in the opposite direction and then threw his snowball when he thought Lan Wangji would have least expected it.

            However, Lan Wangji’s reflexes were ingrained so deeply that he didn’t even think. He caught the snowball in one hand without even blinking.

            Wei Wuxian’s mouth dropped open. He ran over. “It didn’t even fall apart! Truly worthy of Hanguang-Jun!!” Wei Wuxian took the snowball back. “Wow! I’m impressed!” He tossed it in the air a couple times as he pretended to walk away. Again, he threw it when it seemed unexpected, and again, Lan Wangji caught it.

            Wei Wuxian was ecstatic. “Okay! It’s a challenge you want, then, hm? I’ll play, I’ll play.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips finally spread, unable to resist the smile. Still, he noticed the way Wei Wuxian shivered. “Wei Ying, it is too cold. Your fingers will hurt.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t hear him. He was already too busy building an arsenal of snowballs. He glanced up and did a doubletake, gasping, “Hanguang-Jun, behind you!”

            Lan Wangji’s head turned just in time for Wei Wuxian to throw a snowball. He stepped to the side smoothly, giving Wei Wuxian an amused look.

            Both of them knew the fact that Wei Wuxian couldn’t hit him was a lot more fun to him than if he could, so they continued the game a while longer. Wei Wuxian threw countless snowballs—often multiple at a time or in quick succession—but Lan Wangji’s defense was unbreakable.

            In the end, Wei Wuxian was exhausted. He’d thrown over two dozen snowballs, and Lan Wangji was perfectly dry. “I give up! I give up! Hanguang-Jun really is a formidable foe!”

            He walked closer to Lan Wangji, his arms behind his back. His eyes widened as he got close. “Lan Zhan! Behind you!”

            He had already played this trick, but his expression seemed a bit more serious. Instinctively, Lan Wangji glanced back to make sure nothing was wrong.

            Wei Wuxian immediately threw himself forward. Though Lan Wangji had impeccable balance and was known for never being caught off guard, Wei Wuxian still somehow managed to tackle him to the ground.

            They fell back into a pile of snow, Wei Wuxian on top of Lan Wangji.

            Wei Wuxian laughed happily as he straddled Lan Wangji’s waist. “Got you.”

            Lan Wangji’s smile was far too tender for a man who had just been tackled into ice-cold snow.

            Wei Wuxian rested his hands against Lan Wangji’s chest. Even through all his layers, Lan Wangji could feel how frozen they were.

            He sat up with Wei Wuxian, taking his hands worriedly. “You are freezing, Wei Ying.” He hurried to enclose his hands in his own, brought them to his lips, and breathed warm air on them.

            Wei Wuxian sighed in relief, adjusting to sit back on Lan Wangji’s legs. “Mm…feels nice, Lan Zhan.” He seemed content for several moments, eyes fluttering shut at the warmth that radiated from his hands now. After a moment, though, he grinned in the way that only ever meant trouble. “Mm, if only we had a better way to warm up…”

           Lan Wangji was occupied with the task of warming Wei Wuxian’s numb fingers, so he didn’t respond aloud. All he did was faintly shake his head, as if amused at Wei Wuxian’s seemingly one-track mind.

            Wei Wuxian sighed heavily, lamenting, “Everything is so cold now it hurts…I might even get sick if this continues! Lan Zhan, won’t you help me warm up?”

            Lan Wangji murmured against their hands, “It is too cold.”

            Wei Wuxian raised a playful eyebrow. “Oh?” He took a great deal of pleasure in flustering Lan Wangji whenever possible, so he added, “Too cold for Lan Zhan to fuck me?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze had always been fixed on his. Again, he shook his head very faintly, seemingly resigned to the way Wei Wuxian relentlessly teased him. “Too cold to undress.”

            Wei Wuxian’s grin broadened. He leaned up on his knees and inched forward until their hips were connected. “My dear Hanguang-Jun…who said anything about undressing?”

            Lan Wangji gave him a look over their hands. Wei Wuxian suspected it was meant to be admonishing, but it was far too endearing for such a word. “You…” Lan Wangji sighed, breathing out warm air over Wei Wuxian’s fingers.

            Wei Wuxian began to rock his hips forward, already feeling himself respond despite the weather. His breaths were getting shallower, excitement replacing the coldness in his veins. In a breathy tone, he mused, “How about it, Hanguang-Jun? Just a quick one to hold me over until tonight? You can take me apart so fast when you want to…” Wei Wuxian’s grin turned almost evil in his mischief. He tilted his hips, grinding down a little harder. “…And I can tell you want to.”

            Lan Wangji’s earlobes darkened faintly as he felt the weight of Wei Wuxian’s arousal against his, even through all their clothes. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t stop moving, feeling the familiar fire pool low in his stomach. “Don’t you want me to be warm, Hanguang-Jun? Now we both have a problem we need to take care of, mm?”

            Lan Wangji looked sorely tempted by the proposition. His pupils were dilating, and his gaze fell to Wei Wuxian’s reddened lips. In the end, though, he said around their hands, “We are still far from the city, Wei Ying. You will be uncomfortable afterwards.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced to the side. Huh. Hadn’t thought that far…

            Wei Wuxian gave a woeful sigh and stopped rocking his hips. He knew it was his own fault for getting them both so riled up. “It seems this is indeed the case.”

            Lan Wangji looked quite sorry for it. He pulled Wei Wuxian to him, kissing him deeply. When they breathlessly broke apart several moments later, he promised, “Tonight.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart flipped at such a tone. “Oh? Will Hanguang-Jun make it up to me? Whatever I want?”

            Lan Wangji’s heated kiss was enough of an answer.

            Wei Wuxian whined, hips seeking Lan Wangji of their own volition before he managed to pull them back again. With heavy-lidded eyes, he smiled, “I can wait, then.”

***

All joking aside, it was extremely cold. Wei Wuxian hadn’t grown up in a place with much winter weather, and so now, even as he tried to hide it, he was frozen to the bone.

            The snow had become deeper as they travelled north, rendering it a bit difficult for Little Apple to find stable footing. To not make things too difficult for the donkey, Wei Wuxian opted to trudge through the snow beside Hanguang-Jun. He was clutching his hand for dear life, though, and trembling badly.

            It certainly didn’t help when the snowfall turned into something of a miniature blizzard, whipping snow into their faces every few seconds.

            Lan Wangji didn’t appear to be greatly affected by the weather. His nose had turned a bit red, and his fingers were colder, but he seemed fine otherwise. He was more concerned about Wei Wuxian. “Are you warm enough?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned through chattering teeth. “With Hanguang-Jun by my side, how can I not be?”

            Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian’s cloak more securely around his shoulders. “Tell me if you get too cold or tired.”

            Wei Wuxian cocked an eyebrow. “Oh? And what will you do then?”

            Lan Wangji replied straightforwardly, “I will carry you.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed and clung tighter to Lan Wangji’s arm. “I don’t doubt it, Hanguang-Jun. I’ll manage to get by on my own somehow.”

            Though his tone was teasing, he really was quite cold. He couldn’t seem to stop sniffling. The snow around his boots seemed to seep through the material, giving him an unshakable chill.

            Lan Wangji’s hand was a bit warmer than his own. He didn’t seem to be as cold, though Wei Wuxian couldn’t tell how much of that was just his upbringing. He seldom seemed to respond to discomfort. He certainly never complained when he was hurt or drained. Wei Wuxian recalled how even with a broken leg, Lan Wangji had forced himself to walk on it and appear as though nothing was wrong.

            Wei Wuxian worried, “Are you cold?”

            Lan Wangji smiled softly at him. “A little.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Hmm, a little, is it? Alright, alright, I suppose that’s a better answer than you flat-out denying it.”

            Lan Wangji reached for the donkey and pulled another cloak from their saddlebags. He wrapped it around Wei Wuxian’s shoulders before he took his hand again. “Is that better?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded gratefully, teasing, “Hanguang-Jun takes such good care of the fragile man I’ve become.”       

            Lan Wangji pressed his lips together, giving Wei Wuxian an almost disapproving look. “It is not fragile to be cold.”

            Wei Wuxian shrugged, “Perhaps, perhaps…but if the one beside me isn’t cold, how can I complain?!”

            Lan Wangji smiled. He looked straight ahead. “Fine. I am cold.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Was that so hard? My Hanguang-Jun is so stubborn.” He walked closer to Lan Wangji, hugging his arm to keep warm.

            When they had set out that morning, they hadn’t anticipated that the weather would turn so foul. The path between the village they had stayed in and the city they were going to wasn’t that far; ideally, it should have only taken them a few hours to arrive. But the snow had set them back. A three-hour trip had turned into six, and the snow was only getting deeper, making their pace slower.

            To top it off, they hadn’t eaten well that day and had exerted a lot of energy in the snow. In his past life, Wei Wuxian could go days without eating and be just fine. However, Mo Xuanyu’s body was a lot more delicate. In addition to its low spiritual powers, it also just seemed to be more sensitive in general. Sometimes, this was a good thing; its sensitivity certainly made nights far more enjoyable. But during the day, it was rather annoying.

            After another two hours of trudging through gradually thickening snow, Wei Wuxian was beginning to the feel the toll of their day press on him. His stomach hurt from not eating, and his blood sugar felt off. His limbs were weak and trembly, unable to support him any longer.

            He became rather dizzy and gripped Lan Wangji’s arm tighter. Before he made it another few steps, to his chagrin, his leg gave out.

            Lan Wangji reacted so quickly that Wei Wuxian barely realized he was falling. He supported him with worried eyes. “Wei Ying, are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, “It’s just this damn body. I really have turned into such a delicate man in this lifetime, Hanguang-Jun. It really is embarrassing.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t say another word, pulling Wei Wuxian swiftly onto his back.

            Wei Wuxian was rather surprised. “Ah! Warning! Lan Zhan, a little warning would be nice!!!”

            Lan Wangji got a good hold on him and continued forward. His pace was unchanged by Wei Wuxian’s added weight.

            Wei Wuxian settled in, wrapping his arms and legs securely around Lan Wangji to make it easier on him. He rested his chin on Lan Wangji’s shoulder and lamented, “I miss my own body…” He glanced at Lan Wangji’s profile. “You must miss it, too, hm? I was very handsome in my previous life. This one’s pretty, too, of course, but it’s different…Does it ever bother you, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji, “I have not noticed.”

            Wei Wuxian spluttered, “Ah?! How can that be? What do you mean?”

            Lan Wangji’s voice was quiet as he answered, “I only see you.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart flipped. He pulled back to look at Lan Wangji better. “What do you mean, exactly? I look so different.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was fixed ahead. “The face is different, but the expressions are the same. Your smile, your laugh. I only see you.”

            Wei Wuxian was speechless. Despite the ice-cold weather, a slow flush rose across his cheeks, and he broke into a smile. “Lan Zhan, you…you…” But for once, he didn’t know what to say. He laughed softly and hugged Lan Wangji tighter.

***

By the time they arrived in the city, it was close to dusk. They found an inn, ate dinner by the fireplace, and shared a hot bath to warm up.

            Wei Wuxian was sitting against Lan Wangji’s legs in the tub, using a soapy cloth to clean his shoulders. Lan Wangji’s fingers were resting on his hips, thumbs running soft circles against his skin. When Wei Wuxian glanced up, he realized Lan Wangji had been watching him.

            He smiled and scooted forward. “Looking at me in such a way, Hanguang-Jun…just what are you thinking, mm?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell slowly to Wei Wuxian’s lips before rising again.

            His heart flipped. “Every time you do that, Lan Zhan, it drives me crazy.”

            Lan Wangji gave a small smile.        

            Wei Wuxian threw the soapy cloth over the edge of the tub and inched closer. He draped his arms over his shoulders, leaning forward until his lips were ghosting Lan Wangji’s. “You did promise to make it up to me, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was heated, his hands sliding down to Wei Wuxian’s thighs. “I did.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Whatever I wanted, right?”

            Lan Wangji nodded, eyes flicking down to his lips again.

           Wei Wuxian grinned, “Then I’m going to tell you exactly what I want, Lan Zhan. You better be good and listen.” With that, he leaned into Lan Wangji’s ear. Using the most colorful, indelicate terms he could come up with, he explained in great detail what he wanted. Lan Wangji closed his eyes, eyebrows pulling together at the way Wei Wuxian breathed his thoughts. His fingers tightened on Wei Wuxian’s thighs with every sentence. His breath grew ragged, and his earlobes darkened. Wei Wuxian grinned as he felt them both harden at his request; he dropped his tone, continuing even more slowly than before.

            Lan Wangji wasn’t used to such dirty words and was indeed flustered by them, but more than that was the inferno Wei Wuxian’s description sparked in both of them.

            As Wei Wuxian spoke, he began to slowly grind against Lan Wangji, growing more and more breathless the longer he went on. Lan Wangji’s forehead fell to his temple, his breaths bursting as he tried to wait patiently. A whispered Wei Ying slipped out as the effect of Wei Wuxian’s words grew to be almost too much. His fingers drifted up Wei Wuxian’s thighs to his waist, pulling him closer. Wei Wuxian pressed a hand to Lan Wangji’s chest to feel his heart racing even faster than his own. Something giddy rushed through him at the knowledge that he, and he alone, had this power over Hanguang-Jun. There was something unexplainably intoxicating about earning this sort of reaction from someone who barely reacted to others in ordinary life.  

            When Wei Wuxian was finally finished with his explanation, he concluded with a soft, “How does that sound, Lan Er-Gege?”

            Lan Wangji surged forward, pulling him to his mouth. His kiss was so deep and feverish from Wei Wuxian’s teasing that it ignited the flames within Wei Wuxian even more. Lan Wangji groaned into the kiss, nodding his answer. The sound of it alone was enough to make Wei Wuxian feel weak. He moaned in response, hearing the water in the tub slosh as they began.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers appeared low on his body. Wei Wuxian jerked and whimpered in anticipation as Lan Wangji teased him slowly.

            Wei Wuxian pulled from the kiss to rest his forehead against Lan Wangji’s. “Feels so good, Lan Zhan…love it when you touch me…just like that…so good for me…”

            Lan Wangji opened his eyes, light irises roving across Wei Wuxian’s features. As he pressed a finger into him, Wei Wuxian’s red-kissed lips parted. Lan Wangji was captivated by his expression, curling his finger to press against the spot he knew Wei Wuxian loved.

            Wei Wuxian jolted in the water, pulling away to sit upright. He gripped Lan Wangji’s shoulders for stability, rocking in time with his slow movements. With a groan, he rambled, “Lan Zhan…yes, just like that, please, don’t—don’t stop yet.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flicked down to where their lengths were pressed together. Wei Wuxian’s was particularly wet as his hips rolled to meet his thrusts. Wei Wuxian’s expression grew almost pained as Lan Wangji added a third finger. The water sloshed with the way Wei Wuxian was grinding back against his touch. Lan Wangji’s other hand moved to take his length, neglecting his own in favor of watching Wei Wuxian fall apart.  

            Wei Wuxian released a low, melodic sound, his head falling back. After mere moments of such precise care, it all became too much. His hand dove underwater to catch Lan Wangji’s wrist. Lan Wangji always stopped when he asked him to, something which made Wei Wuxian feel unexplainably safe.   

            Wei Wuxian, “Ngh, wait…wait…”

            Lan Wangji hummed softly. His lips captured a sensitive part of Wei Wuxian’s neck, tongue pressing down against his skin.

            Wei Wuxian jerked with a gasp. His movements became somewhat frantic as he pressed himself against Lan Wangji. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan—please—bed—”

            Lan Wangji removed his fingers and took Wei Wuxian’s waist. The sound of them getting out of the tub was rather loud, but they barely noticed the water cascading onto the floor. Lan Wangji picked up his forehead ribbon on the way as he carried Wei Wuxian to the bed.

            Wei Wuxian was still reeling. His length throbbed between them, begging for attention.

            Lan Wangji’s kiss was deep. His tongue slid against Wei Wuxian’s, earning a low moan. He took Wei Wuxian’s wrists and tied them securely with the ribbon. Wei Wuxian smiled against the kiss, excitement settling low in his stomach.

            Lan Wangji pulled back to press his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s. One hand rose to his cheek, its touch almost reverent. Breathlessly, he murmured, “Tell me if you change your mind and want to stop.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted. He nodded quickly with a smile. “Love you.”

            Lan Wangji kissed him deeply again before replying, “Every day.” With that, he took Wei Wuxian’s hips and flipped him over.

            On his knees, Wei Wuxian let out a soft cry of excitement. He leaned down on his elbows, his wrists tied so tight he could barely move. He widened his legs as Lan Wangji kneeled behind him. Lan Wangji leaned over him, kissing his back as he slowly entered him. Wei Wuxian was shaking with anticipation. He whimpered and moaned as Lan Wangji’s hips met his. Lan Wangji released a soft sound against his back, his hands tight on his waist.

            Wei Wuxian, “Feels so good…Lan Zhan…ngh, al-always so good for me, Lan Er-Gege.”

            Lan Wangji bit his neck, marking his skin.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled breathlessly. “Lan Er-Gege, Lan Er-Gege, Lan Er—Ah!” Lan Wangji had pulled out of him only to slam back in hard. Tears flooded Wei Wuxian’s eyes, and he nodded. Already a mess, he rambled, “Fuck, yes, Lan Zhan, fuck me, f—ngh, haa—”

            The truth was, they rarely used this position. Lan Wangji often preferred a more traditional one which allowed him to see Wei Wuxian, to watch him fall apart, to kiss and caress him. He usually wanted it slow and deep, spanning hours where he could savor the way Wei Wuxian felt and sounded and moved with him, their fingers interlaced, their hearts beating in unison.

            Wei Wuxian loved this romantic side of Lan Wangji, but he also loved the other side, the one that liked to mark him, tie him up, and fuck him so hard he couldn’t walk the next day. That was the side he wanted tonight. What was more, Wei Wuxian happened to like this position quite a bit, because everything felt so much sharper; Lan Wangji felt deeper, brushing relentlessly against that spot Wei Wuxian craved.

            Nothing Lan Wangji ever did could hurt Wei Wuxian; he knew Lan Wangji took great care to be gentle with him, but he also knew how far he could push it.

            Pleasure numbed Wei Wuxian’s mind as Lan Wangji entered into a brutal pace. He dropped his forehead to the bed, lips parted.

            Lan Wangji panted a soft, “Wei Ying,” against his back before pulling upright to manage harder thrusts.

            Wei Wuxian jolted with each one, fingers digging into the bedding beneath him. Tears blurred his vision. He moaned a bit too loud for such a crowded inn, so he muffled himself with his tied wrists. His eyes squeezed shut, and he felt his length sway and throb with each thrust. Lan Wangji’s hands swam around his waist and thighs, caressing, pinching, soothing, guiding. He left a trail of fire in his wake, burning all the way up Wei Wuxian’s body.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes had fallen shut. His own lips were parted, his eyebrows drawn together. As Wei Wuxian’s sounds grew louder and longer, muffled only by the fabric of his forehead ribbon, Lan Wangji’s thrusts grew harder and deeper. He nudged Wei Wuxian’s legs further apart and held his waist with one hand, fingers gripping him hard enough to leave marks.

            Curses and praises alike streamed from Wei Wuxian as Lan Wangji’s other hand reached around his front. His long, delicate fingers trailed a teasing path around the area they both wanted him to touch, but Wei Wuxian had made this part of his request. He had the tendency to come too soon when he was touched, and he wanted to last as long as possible.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers caressed his thigh, trailing up the inside of it slowly.

            Wei Wuxian was shaking. He tilted his head a little to see his own length a dark, angry color. Its tip was nearly leaking, strands of fluid connecting him to the bed. He moaned again, resisting the urge to touch himself—one good reason for his hands to be tied. If they were free, he couldn’t guarantee he wouldn’t. He squeezed his eyes shut, grunting Lan Wangji’s name with every other thrust.

            It didn’t take Wei Wuxian very long to reach the edge; it never did when they used this position. He rolled his hips back to meet Lan Wangji, panting, “L-Lan Zhan, t-touch me, ngh, please, let me—ah!” Lan Wangji’s fingers hadn’t hesitated to wrap around him.

            Lan Wangji groaned quietly as he felt how wet Wei Wuxian had grown. True, he was almost always like this, but it was in these positions that Wei Wuxian grew especially needy. Lan Wangji used the fluid to enter into a merciless rhythm.

            Wei Wuxian was nearly blinded by the force of his pleasure. Everything in his body seemed tensed, waiting eagerly for that rush. It took precious little to get him there, just Lan Wangji’s thumb sweeping across the tip of his length.

            Wei Wuxian gasped as pleasure exploded within him. He choked on his moans, sweat dripping off his skin. A series of pleas marked his release as Lan Wangji guided him through it.

           Lan Wangji wasn’t far behind. He managed two more thrusts before he stilled. He folded over Wei Wuxian, one arm hugging his waist. His forehead rested against Wei Wuxian’s back, a breathless Wei Ying curling off his tongue.

            Wei Wuxian rolled his hips against Lan Wangji to prolong their pleasure, still reeling.

            Lan Wangji’s lips drifted across his shoulders in a caress as he came down from the high. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s brain hadn’t restarted yet. All he could do was whimper back a strangled, “Lan Zhan…”

            They stayed like that for a long moment, hazy in the afterglow. As Lan Wangji slowly pulled away, Wei Wuxian shifted to one side and collapsed, panting ridiculously fast. He couldn’t manage to open his eyes, even as he felt the gentle way Lan Wangji had begun to clean him up.

            When he was finished, Lan Wangji sat beside Wei Wuxian. He reached for his wrists and undid the ribbon. The skin underneath looked raw and sore. He reached for a small jar near the bed and rubbed ointment on the tender skin.

            Wei Wuxian hummed, “Lan Zhan…so good…love you so much…”

            Lan Wangji admired his blissed-out expression. He leaned down to press his lips to Wei Wuxian’s forehead before returning the sentiment in a whisper.

            When he was done applying the ointment, he finally lay beside Wei Wuxian and pulled him to his lips. What followed was an exceptionally tender kiss that Wei Wuxian melted into, exhaustion overwhelming him. He dragged himself closer to Lan Wangji, hugging him as tightly as he could. Lan Wangji enfolded him in his embrace and pulled the blanket over them, all without breaking the kiss. He raised a hand to Wei Wuxian’s jaw, thumb gentle on its path across his cheekbone.

            When they breathlessly broke apart, Wei Wuxian was too tired to say anything. He hummed vaguely and grew limp.

            Lan Wangji glanced down at him as his breaths evened out. A small, soft smile spread as he brushed a few loose tangles from Wei Wuxian’s long hair with his fingers. He kissed his forehead, hugged him tighter, and closed his eyes. Listening to the gentle sounds of Wei Wuxian’s breathing, Lan Wangji fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji was sitting in the Library Pavilion. Apart from the chirping birds in the magnolia tree outside, the only sound in the quiet room was the gentle stroke of his brush. The sun was streaming in through the window. It warmed the otherwise cold library and rendered the light of the candles obsolete.

            Two small rabbits were curled up in the sun’s rays right by Lan Wangji’s knee. They were fast asleep, the black-haired rabbit nuzzled against the white-haired one. Even in sleep, the black-haired rabbit was active, its paws twitching and swinging wildly. It kicked Lan Wangji more than once, but he didn’t seem to notice, focused on his work.

            Suddenly, from outside came a melodic, unrestrained laugh. Lan Wangji’s brush paused mid-character. He glanced up to see Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng, and Nie Huaisang walking down the path by the Library Pavilion.

            The other two were quiet. Nie Huaisang was hanging on Wei Wuxian’s every word as he spoke animatedly. Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes, shaking his head. Wei Wuxian’s smile was brighter than the sun, his eyes crinkling a little as he continued. He flicked his long hair over one shoulder, gesturing wildly with his hands. He gave Jiang Cheng a playful look, murmuring something as he finished his story.

            Whatever it was made Jiang Cheng angry; he shoved him hard and snapped something that only made Wei Wuxian’s laugh ring louder.

            They passed the window, and Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to his work. After a long moment, he continued writing.

            He only finished one more page before the doors to the Library Pavilion opened softly. He glanced up to see his older brother enter. 

            Lan Wangji greeted, “Xiongzhang.”

            Lan Xichen smiled warmly at him. “Wangji, it is such a nice day. Why are you still in here?”

            Lan Wangji continued writing. “I have not yet finished this book for Shufu.”

            His older brother sat by the rabbits, who had woken up upon his arrival. The black-haired one leapt around excitedly, nosing and nibbling at his robes. The white-haired one sat calmly, looking at Lan Xichen with wide, expectant eyes.

            Lan Xichen gave a soft laugh. “They must smell the carrot I brought for them. Food is, of course, prohibited in the Library Pavilion. Wangji, will you come outside with us?”

            Lan Wangji wiped his brush clean and stood. “Of course, Xiongzhang.”

            Lan Xichen picked up the white rabbit, leaving the black one for Lan Wangji to collect. It chewed on his robes as he walked and tried to hop around.

            This, in turn, made Lan Xichen laugh. “This one is very rambunctious.”

            Lan Wangji mumbled, “Too rambunctious…” in a way that didn’t sound like he meant the rabbit at all.

            Lan Xichen smiled, “It is natural for some to be a little rowdy when they are young. Without this rabbit hopping around so animatedly, it would indeed be too quiet, would it not?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows pulled slightly together. Lan Xichen’s true meaning was more than obvious, and he didn’t like it. “How is Shufu?”

            Lan Xichen’s smile broadened at the abrupt transition. Outside the Library Pavilion, he and Lan Wangji sat in the grass and set the rabbits down. Lan Xichen took the carrot from his sleeve as he answered, “Shufu is tired. The waterborne abyss is not easy to deal with. He has managed to erect a barrier between Biling Lake and the rest of the river so as to not harm the livelihood of those who depend on it for survival. Draining the lake, however, is not easy task; he is doing his best. Other than that, he is fine. I spoke with him this morning, and he and I both agreed you could use some free time. You have been working very hard, Wangji. Come with me to Caiyi Town. Shufu has asked me to check on the barrier in his stead to ensure it is holding. More than that, though, I have a sudden craving for their steamed buns.”

            Lan Wangji nodded once. “Alright.”

            Lan Xichen glanced at the rabbits. They were nibbling on the carrot happily. The black-haired one was practically on top of the white-haired one, but the latter didn’t seem to mind the invasion of its space. “Can you leave them for a few hours alone?”

            Lan Wangji nodded. His expression was indifferent, but his fingers were very gentle as he petted the black-haired rabbit’s ears. “They will be fine.”

***

Since it was Saturday, Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng, and Nie Huaisang didn’t have class. Finally free from his seemingly unending punishment, this was the first weekend Wei Wuxian didn’t have to be cooped up in the Library Pavilion. To celebrate, he and the others had asked Lan Xichen for permission to spend the day in Caiyi Town.

            Nie Huaisang was fanning his face, walking close by Wei Wuxian. He was a bit miserable in the sun, but the weather in the Cloud Recesses was certainly fairer than that of Qinghe, so he knew he shouldn’t complain. Instead, he was looking forward to their daytrip eagerly. “I wonder if they’ll have more fans in stock! The last time we visited Caiyi town, I couldn’t find any I don’t already have. Well…I could, but they weren’t very nice.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at him curiously. He turned to walk backwards on the path to put his back to the sun. “What do you like so much about them?”

            Nie Huaisang gaped, “Have you seen a high-quality fan before?! The artistry, the brushwork, the passion of their creators…There is not a single better gift that exists in the world, as far as I’m concerned! Ah, I want to collect them all. There is one artist known as Ying Yue who makes the most exquisite fans…Her work is incredibly expensive, but it’s so worth it. I hope to meet her someday and buy as many of her fans as I can! Here! Look! This is one of hers; it’s currently my favorite. But—please, be careful with it, Wei-xiong.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and accepted the fan. He skipped as he turned around to face forward again. He unfolded the fan slowly. The painting truly was exceptional, misty mountains set against a long river. The background was painted with dark colors, but it didn’t seem bleak or grim at all. It seemed peaceful and tranquil.

            Wei Wuxian folded the fan and returned it to Nie Huaisang’s hovering hands. “It’s really nice! It almost looks like the Cloud Recesses. Can you imagine Lan Zhan using something like this? Hahahaha.” Just picturing him waving a fan with such a serious expression made him double over.

            Jiang Cheng shoved his shoulder. “Why are you teasing him? He’s not even here.”

            Wei Wuxian pretended his shoulder hurt. “Ah, Jiang Cheng, you’re so cruel. It was only a joke.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You need to stop messing with him. It’s enough already. He clearly hates you and wants nothing to do with you.”

            Wei Wuxian waved a dismissive hand. “He doesn’t hate me. We’re friends!”

            Jiang Cheng, “You are so oblivious. He’s punished you in every way he can think of, including a beating, or have you already forgotten? Not only that, but he’s had to put up with your nonsense every single day for over a month while you copied his sect’s rules. I’m only surprised he hasn’t gone into seclusion to avoid ever seeing your face again.”

            Wei Wuxian elbowed Nie Huaisang, “Told you he’s a bit of a drama queen.”

            Nie Huaisang chuckled behind his fan. He whispered to Wei Wuxian, “I’ve noticed!”

            Jiang Cheng was infuriated. “You—!”

            Wei Wuxian yelled and ran away with Jiang Cheng hot on his trail.

            Nie Huaisang jolted and picked up his robes to chase after them. “Hey! W-wait for me!!!”

***

Lan Wangi and Lan Xichen walked silently down the mountain path. Lan Xichen was playing a quiet melody with Liebing. Its notes sounded like the gentle current of a slow-moving river, adding a level of tranquility to the air.

            Lan Wangji’s expression looked indifferent to the outside eye, but Lan Xichen knew this was a song he liked. He could see the softness around his younger brother’s eyes. It was a song Lan Xichen had written for them, the Two Jades of Lan, when they were very young. He didn’t play it as often anymore, but he remembered it without fault.

            One of Lan Wangji’s arms was behind his back while his other hand rested on the hilt of his sword. Though his posture looked rigid, he seemed to Lan Xichen to be rather relaxed, enjoying his time outside.

            When the song was finished, Lan Xichen lowered the xiao and commented, “It seems Wei Gongzi’s punishment has come to an end.”

            Lan Wangji’s shoulders seemed to tense. Quietly, almost to himself, he replied, “That has yet to be determined.”

            Lan Xichen couldn’t help but find that a little funny. He smiled and looked ahead. “Wei Gongzi is a playful soul, Wangji. He cannot help it.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply for a long time. When Lan Xichen glanced at him, he found his younger brother’s eyes almost a bit soft. As if recognizing this himself, he straightened and hardened his expression. “He is too carefree.”

            Lan Xichen, “He is young. Besides, he has been raised like Jiang Zongzhu’s own son. The Jiang Sect prides itself on the sense of freedom it instills in its disciples. Wei Gongzi is the embodiment of that freedom.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze softened again as he looked away.

            Of course, Lan Xichen knew Lan Wangji was rather taken with the other boy. As much as he wanted to support and encourage him, Lan Xichen also knew it was better not to pressure his younger brother too much. Lan Wangji was far too stubborn to admit to such feelings, if he could understand them at all.

            Still, Lan Xichen couldn’t help feeling that Lan Wangji’s stubbornness in such matters was his fault, as his older brother. Sighing softly, he said, “With Fuqin in secluded meditation indefinitely, I have become busier of late. I fear I have put too much on your shoulders, Wangji. You seldom have time to yourself anymore.”

            Lan Wangji looked at his older brother. “Your troubles are my troubles, Xiongzhang. It is my duty to help in any way I can.”

            Lan Xichen smiled at him, but it was a solemn gesture. “Shufu and I always thought it best if you kept to your studies. You liked them and excelled quickly, and you seemed genuinely happy alone. I wish now we had encouraged you to socialize more often. I fear I have made it difficult for you to make friends.”         

            Lan Wangji replied quietly, “I prefer to be alone.”

            Lan Xichen sighed, “I know.” He reflected, This is what troubles me. Only Wei Gongzi can bring him out of his shell, but what will happen when he leaves? Will Wangji return to secluded meditation?

            Lan Xichen looked straight ahead. He knew it was somewhat unfair to take his younger brother to Caiyi Town without telling him that they would inevitably run into Wei Wuxian and the rest, but he supposed he wanted to give his brother good days before the Jiang Sect returned to Lotus Pier. If Lan Wangji couldn’t or wouldn’t seek Wei Wuxian out on his own, Lan Xichen could only try to subtly guide the two together, outside the confines of a punishment.

***

Wei Wuxian stopped at the outer edges of Caiyi Town, panting with his hands on his knees. “I won! You…are getting…slow!”

            Jiang Cheng scowled at him. He rested a hand against a tree trunk and moved the other to his heaving chest. “Shut…up!”

            Nie Huaisang had collapsed on the ground, bemoaning his fate. “Why…must you two…compete…in everything?! We could…have had…a nice…walk!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed breathlessly and helped the other boy up. He dusted off the backs of his robes for him. To Jiang Cheng, he said, “We agreed loser pays for the snacks and the drinks, right?”

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. “Snacks. I’m not buying you alcohol so you can act like more of an idiot.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Fine, then don’t drink it when I buy it.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You—!”

            Nie Huaisang remembered his excitement from earlier and grabbed Wei Wuxian’s hand. “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ah! So, you can be fast when you want to be! Jiang Cheng, save me!”

            Jiang Cheng watched him be dragged away with a snort. “Save yourself.”

            Nie Huaisang towed Wei Wuxian to a small shop near the water’s edge. Fans of all colors and sizes lined the walls. Nie Huaisang’s eyes were glinting as he darted from one fan to another.

            Wei Wuxian thought it was a bit funny but also a bit sweet, so he didn’t tease the other boy. Instead, he searched through the fans on the opposite side of the shop for one Nie Huaisang might like.

            Jiang Cheng caught up with them eventually. He gave the fans a disinterested look.

            Wei Wuxian spotted a fan made of bamboo. It was painted with a variety of birds in vivid, striking detail. “Go show this one to Nie-xiong.”

            Jiang Cheng frowned at it. “Show him yourself.” He gave another long look at the fans. “This is absurd.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Shut up. He likes them.”

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes and crossed his arms.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes lit up on one fan. “Hey, you brat, look!!!” He plucked it from the wall and opened it all the way to admire its scene. It was made with a dark wood that matched the wood of Lotus Pier almost perfectly. A massive lotus lake had been painted with careful consideration, pink buds blossoming. “Jiang Cheng!!! We need to get this for Shijie’s birthday!!!”

            Since they had been around nine or ten, Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian had tried every year to get Jiang Yanli a gift that was worthy of her. It was indeed a difficult task. Their sister was sweet and kind and gentle; she never asked for anything, only gave to everyone in her life. She was a bright light to Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian, but the more they loved her, the more difficult it was to find a gift that suited her.

            However, this fan, simple as it might have seemed, was exactly the type of thing she would love. She didn’t have a fan of her own, but days were always hot in Lotus Pier. What was even better was the image of the lotus lake, where she loved to play with Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian. They had spent their lives in those lakes; finding such an elegantly painted fan portray such a fond part of their childhood—who could ask for a better gift?

            Jiang Cheng had been rolling his eyes the whole time, but now he smiled and nodded with a soft expression. “Definitely! A-Jie will love it.”

            The shop owner happened to overhear them and ambled over. He was a very old man with a gray goatee and a stern expression that was so reminiscent of Lan Qiren that Wei Wuxian was almost startled. However, from the start, his voice was much kinder. He spoke slowly with an almost dreamy smile. “Ah, for a young lady’s birthday? She is guaranteed to love it. This one is a rare find. This is the last fan in my entire shop by this artist. The rest were sold within hours of their arrival.”

            Wei Wuxian looked at him. “Really?!”

            The old man nodded. “The artist is a woman known only as Sihan. She comes through here every five or so years to bring me a new assortment of fans. This one was part of her last set of creations. She has decided to travel to a faraway place and does not intend to be back. Her fans are instilled with spiritual power, known for bringing only good luck and happiness to those who buy them. The young woman you give this to will be blessed with a happy future.”

            As disciples of a prominent sect, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng didn’t really buy into such things, but they liked the idea of it. Eagerly, Wei Wuxian paid the full amount and tucked the fan into his sleeve to keep it safe. He turned to Jiang Cheng. “I can’t wait to give it to her! But first things first, help me with Nie-xiong. If he buys everything he’s holding, we’ll need to find a cart to get them all back to the Cloud Recesses.”

***

After a rigorous, painstaking round of deciding which fans to keep and which to put back, Nie Huaisang was being pulled from the fan shop. He had one hand outstretched over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, promising, “I’ll come back for you!”

            Wei Wuxian comforted him, “Look, you bought so many fans, and they’re all so pretty! If you get too many at the same time, you won’t be able to appreciate them all.”

            Nie Huaisang sighed, holding up the seven he had purchased. “I suppose that’s true…This one you found with the birds is especially nice.”

            Wei Wuxian knew he liked to talk about birds quite a bit. “Can you tell just from the painting what kind they are?”

            Jiang Cheng was horrified. He didn’t want to hear anyone drone on for so long about birds, but he couldn’t find a nice way of saying that.

            On the other hand, Nie Huaisang’s eyes lit up, his disappointment forgotten. “Yes!” At once, he started to point to each one, telling not only its name, species, family, and gender, but also its dietary habits, sleeping patterns, mating routines, and every other fact he could think of.

            Wei Wuxian listened and smiled. Most of it went clean over his head, but he liked to see the way people’s eyes lit up when they were talking about their passions. So, though he didn’t know most of what Nie Huaisang was talking about, he made an effort to store the information and ask questions to keep the conversation going.

            Nie Huaisang was over the moon, talking so quickly that he tripped over his words. By the time he was finished with his explanations, he smiled sheepishly. “Thanks for letting me go on and on. No one seems to care much about it.”

            Wei Wuxian mused, “That’s just because they’re ignorant, like this one here.” He jabbed a thumb at Jiang Cheng.

            Jiang Cheng, “That thumb had better be pointing at someone else, or I’m pushing you in the lake.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Do it then, coward.”

            The response surprised Jiang Cheng enough that he laughed and then grabbed Wei Wuxian’s neck in a chokehold.

            Wei Wuxian gasped, “Ah! I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m so—” His eyes caught on two figures ahead, both clad in gleaming white robes. They were hard to miss. Most of the town was already staring at them in awe.

            Lan Xichen was talking to a boatman with gentle smile, gesturing to the river. Lan Wangji stood beside him, his indifferent gaze fixed ahead. Despite his cold appearance, many children and women in particular were transfixed by him and his brother. Wei Wuxian couldn’t blame them; something about the way the water reflected the sunlight over them made both, especially Lan Wangji, look exceptionally beautiful.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes lit up, and he broke from Jiang Cheng’s hold. “Lan Zhan!!!”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed over immediately, a little wide. An instant later, the hand on his sword hilt tightened.

            Lan Xichen looked up, unsurprised. He smiled warmly, calling, “Wei Gongzi, Jiang Gongzi, Huaisang! I wondered when we might run into you.”

            Lan Wangji glanced sharply at his older brother. “You expected them?”

            Lan Xichen answered vaguely, “They asked if they could visit the town this morning.” He seemed to be very busy all of a sudden with Nie Huaisang’s many fans. “What have you got here, Huaisang? If you return to Qinghe with more fans than grades, then I am afraid your brother will blame me.”

            Nie Huaisang, “But Xichen-ge! Look at this one!!!”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw clenched.

            Wei Wuxian ran the rest of the way to the brothers. He stopped very close to Lan Wangji, resting his arm on his shoulder familiarly. The townspeople around them gaped at such a bold move. “Lan Zhan! Were you so lonely without me that you had to come into town to take your mind of it?”

            Lan Wangji stepped away from him, refusing to look at him.

            Wei Wuxian, “Ignoring me already? How can you treat me, your best friend, in such a way?”

            Lan Wangji replied coldly, “We are not friends.”

            Wei Wuxian teased, “Then why did you follow us to Caiyi Town? I know we left first because I saw you watching us from the Library Pavilion.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed to his. “You—!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, clapping his hands together. “You really do lose composure more and more with me, hahahahahaha! If not your best friend, who else would I be to provoke such reactions from you?! Hahahahaha—”

            Jiang Cheng yanked Wei Wuxian back roughly, cutting off his laugh. In a whisper, he ordered, “Knock it off already! You’re such an embarrassment to our sect! Do you see how many people are around while you tease Lan Wangji of all people in such a way?!”

            Wei Wuxian replied loud enough for Lan Wangji to hear, “He makes it too fun. How can I not tease him?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened. He looked like he wanted to leave. If not for his older brother, he would have.

            Lan Xichen seemed to have not noticed the exchange, too busy with Huaisang. As he finished handing the fans back to the younger boy, he looked up at Wei Wuxian. “What are you all planning to do for the rest of the day?”

            Wei Wuxian, “We’re not sure yet.”

            Lan Xichen gestured to the boat. “Wangji and I are traveling upriver to check on the barrier around Biling Lake. Would you like to join us? There should not be anything too dangerous, but you can never be too careful.”

            Wei Wuxian jumped at the chance, both literally and figuratively. “Sure!”

            But Lan Wangji was horrified. He looked at his brother. “That is not necessary, Xiongzhang. The boat is too small for so many people.”

            Lan Xichen didn’t seem to think this was an issue at all. “Then we will get two boats. Huaisang, Jiang Gongzi, and I will take one. Wangji, you and Wei Gongzi can follow behind in another boat. Is everyone ready to go?”

            Lan Wangji tried to argue, but everything happened too fast.

            Before long, he was shoved into a boat with Wei Wuxian journeying upriver.

            After a long bout of silence, Wei Wuxian teased, “So…just the two of us. You and me. Alone.”

            Lan Wangji, “Get your hand off me.”

            Wei Wuxian pulled his fingers away from Lan Wangji’s shoulder with a laugh. “You’re so stern all the time! I was just kidding! If you keep acting like this in front of the others, no one will believe me when I say we’re friends.”

            Lan Wangji, “That is because we are not.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, pressing a hand over his heart. “I won’t lie, Lan Zhan. You’ve hurt me deeply.”

            Lan Wangji, “You will recover.”

            Wei Wuxian was shocked. “Was that—did you just banter with me?! I knew it! We are friends! Everyone knows, only friends, family, and lovers can banter with each other, and we’re not related!”

            Lan Wangji’s earlobes flushed a deep crimson. He looked away, his knuckles pale on his sword hilt.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t notice his reaction, busy shooing away mosquitos. “Lan Zhan. Hey, Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan! Lan Zhan! Look at me!!”

            Lan Wangji was ignoring him. Without looking over, he said, “Sit properly. You carry yourself with no sense of propriety.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at his splayed legs and crooked posture. He pulled himself upright. “Alright, alright. If I sit properly, will you admit we’re friends?”

            Lan Wangji exhaled slowly, as though summoning his patience. “We are not.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed. “You’re so boring sometimes, Lan Zhan, you know that? Fine, fine, you win. We’re not friends.” He moved to the front of the boat and leaned against the edge. He rested his chin on his wrist and draped his other hand overboard, letting his fingers trail against the surface of the lake.

            Lan Wangji’s light-colored eyes drifted to him. He blinked slowly, his expression growing a bit complicated. After a moment, he parted his lips to say something, but, after a second thought, he closed his mouth and looked down.

            Wei Wuxian sighed again. He was still playing in the water, but he had forgotten about the fan in his sleeve. When he reached for a stick floating in the lake, the gift tumbled out and fell underwater.

            Wei Wuxian gasped and jumped up. “No, no, no!!”

            Lan Wangji looked up sharply at the alarm in his voice. “What is it? What happened?”

            Wei Wuxian yanked the talisman off the boat to stop its movement and dove into the river at once.

            Lan Wangji lurched to his feet. “Wei Ying!”

            Underwater, the current was strong, but Wei Wuxian was used to swimming in such waters. Still, it was quite a bit of work. To make matters worse, the river was a great deal colder than he had been expecting. In Lotus Pier, the cool water was refreshing, but here, it almost hurt. He fought against the current to reach the bottom of the lake where the fan must have been carried. The river was also a bit deeper than he had anticipated, but it had nothing on the lakes around Lotus Pier. He could hold his breath for a long time, so he wasn’t worried.

            The downside was that it was getting harder to see the further he swam. The water was murky already, and the sun struggled to reach the lower depths. When he reached the bottom of the lake, he already felt tired. He pulled a talisman from his sleeve and lit it with spiritual energy. It was a talisman typically used to warn the holder of evil nearby; it would glow a bright green while held and flash red if it detected a dark creature of low-level. It was admittedly a waste to use such a talisman in place of a lantern, but it couldn’t be helped.

            His lungs were beginning to burn as he searched frantically. The longer the fan was in the water, the likelier it was that it would be ruined. It took Wei Wuxian several minutes to find its dark wooden handle in the sand. He reached for it and tucked it in his sleeve, relieved. However, the talisman he held suddenly flashed a brilliant red, detecting something in the water.

            The situation with the waterborne abyss was still being dealt with. Its evil hadn’t been entirely suppressed, so it was only natural that there were still a few water ghouls they had missed on the bottom of the river.

            From the murky depths of the water, one of those water ghouls climbed across the riverbed with determination. Wei Wuxian wasn’t worried, of course. He used Suibian to slash its head off, but another soon followed. The talisman in his hand flashed red incessantly, detecting one and then another and another and another.

            Water ghouls tended to behave strangely in the presence of a waterborne abyss. Rather than attack Caiyi Town again or rise to the surface to pull others into the lake, these had congregated at the bottom, as though hiding.

            Wei Wuxian usually could fight dozens of water ghouls by himself without issue, but his lungs were bursting. He had been underwater far too long. He used Suibian to distract them and swam up. He only needed a moment to catch his breath, and then he could return to deal with the remnants.

            He was close to the surface when a water ghoul managed to grab his leg and drag him back down.

            The small remainder of Wei Wuxian’s air was yanked from his lungs in surprise. At the same time, an icy blue sword glare flashed by him, and the weight on his leg disappeared. But Wei Wuxian was caught in the current, and his vision had begun to fade into black spots. He tried to swim to the surface, but his limbs wouldn’t listen to him anymore. A brief panic surged through his entire body, prickling his scalp. Am I really going to die because of a fan? How embarrassing!

            Something white flashed across his vision, and he felt a tight pressure on his collar.

            Time blurred a little after that. He supposed he must have passed out, because one moment, he was caught in a current in murky water, and the next, he was on his back on a boat with Lan Wangji’s face flashing before his vision.

            “Wei Ying! Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian felt compressions at his chest, followed by a surge of water in his throat. He leaned to one side, coughing it up, and then groaned. “Ow…”

            Lan Wangji helped him sit up.

            Wei Wuxian glanced at him in the too-bright sun. His once-immaculate robes were utterly drenched and clung to his frame tightly. His hair was dripping, falling over his shoulders, and his forehead ribbon was a little crooked.

            Wei Wuxian coughed the rest of the water out and managed to say weakly, “Didn’t know you could swim, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji exhaled sharply, as if annoyed.

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand, “I almost drowned. Don’t be so stern with me.”

            Lan Wangji, “Why did you dive in the first place?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I dropped something.”

            This seemed to irritate Lan Wangji even more. “Something worth your life?”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “Well, I didn’t know about the water ghouls at the time, or I might have said something to you.” He glanced up. Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon was beginning to bother him. He reached for it.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes widened. He jerked back, smacking his hand away thoughtlessly. “What are you doing?!”

            Wei Wuxian managed to chuckle, “Your forehead ribbon is crooked! I want to straighten it.”

            Lan Wangji fixed it himself and stood. After a moment, he summoned Bichen. Wei Wuxian did the same to Suibian.

            “Um, Lan Zhan? Please…don’t tell anyone I almost drowned. This is too embarrassing.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head faintly and looked away.

            Wei Wuxian rambled, “I’m actually a very good swimmer, you know. I swim all the time. I just didn’t take a deep enough breath because I didn’t know there were water ghouls down there.” He reached for the fan to check its condition and then jerked upright with a gasp. “Oh no!!!” He opened it, devastated to find it completely ruined. The paints had run together and bled across the silk.

            Lan Wangji saw how upset he was. “…You can buy another when we return to Caiyi Town.”

            Wei Wuxian stared at it in open dismay. “No, I can’t. It was one-of-a-kind, the store owner said so himself. Damn it! It was supposed to be for Shijie’s birthday!” He tossed it down in a rare streak of bitterness. He mocked himself, “The owner said the fan would bring good luck to those who carried it. Guess I outweighed it.”

            Lan Wangji picked up the fan. He opened it to see the ruined remnants of a lotus lake. The flowers had been painted with exquisite care. “Perhaps you can ask them to paint another.”

            Wei Wuxian rested his head against the side of the boat and stared at the sky blankly. “I can’t. The owner said the artist left. I won’t be able to find her…” His mood was worsening the more he thought about it. He had only wanted to give Jiang Yanli something to make her birthday special this year; how could he have been so stupid as to play with it over the water? Yu Furen had told him countless times that he managed to smear whatever he touched. In a foul mood, he mumbled, “I really do ruin everything.”

            Lan Wangji gazed at him. He didn’t know what to say for a long time. “Wei Ying, you know how to draw. If you paint one for her, it will be better than buying one.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked slowly. The idea gradually took hold. He glanced at Lan Wangji and then sat up. “You think so?”

            Lan Wangji nodded. “Yes.”

            Wei Wuxian took the fan back. He bit his lip as he looked at the destroyed painting. “I won’t be able to paint it as nicely.”

            Lan Wangji, “It will be better; it will have come from you.”

            Wei Wuxian thought about it. When they had been kids, Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian had often painted her gifts. She still had them in her room, small mementos of their failed attempts at art, but she loved them. 

            Wei Wuxian closed the fan and nodded. His enthusiasm returned, and he grinned. “You’re right! I can try, at least…She would really like it! And it would be fun to work on!”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes fell to Wei Wuxian’s smile. A moment later, he looked away. He replaced the talisman on the boat, and then they were moving again.

            Wei Wuxian tucked the fan away again. “Thanks, Lan Zhan. I feel a lot better.”

            Lan Wangji was looking straight ahead. “Do not mention it.”

            Behind him, Wei Wuxian grinned, “You know, when most people say that, it’s just an expression, but when you say it, I feel like you really mean it, hahahahahahaha.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes closed briefly at the melody of his laugh. When he opened them again, he stared at the edge of the boat, blinking slowly.

            When Wei Wuxian was finished laughing, he began to wring out his clothes. “Ugh, everything is so tight and uncomfortable now.” He glanced at Lan Wangji to find him standing as properly as ever, seemingly unperturbed. “Er…sorry, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji replied neutrally, “You do not need to say this to me.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled. He leaned back against the boat with a long sigh and closed his eyes, hoping the sun would help to dry him out.

***

Two days later, Lan Wangji was heading to the Library Pavilion when he saw the candles already lit within.

            Wei Wuxian was sitting at their table, his brush moving slowly. A large fan lay before him. He dipped his brush in ink again and continued, so focused that he didn’t hear Lan Wangji’s quiet entrance.

            Lan Wangji knew Wei Wuxian had been working hard since they had returned to the Cloud Recesses. As he passed, he glanced at the artwork and then froze. He had known Wei Wuxian was gifted with drawing, but he hadn’t expected the fan to turn out so beautiful. Though a far simpler rendering of a lotus lake, this one had undeniable qualities that marked it as Wei Wuxian’s. He had drawn a long pier over the lake and three figures playing together.

            At this point, Wei Wuxian noticed his arrival and glanced up. “Lan Zhan! What do you think?! It’s not very good, I know, but it’s the best I could do.”

            Lan Wangji fixed his expression quickly. “It is very nice. Jiang Guniang will like it.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, holding the fan out to inspect it. He knew Lan Wangji never lied or exaggerated. “You really think so?!”

            Lan Wangji began collecting the books he needed to continue copying. “I do.”

            Wei Wuxian beamed, “Good! Because I made you one, too.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers froze in midair.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t notice, reaching for the fan he had laid out to dry. “I wasn’t sure how to go about painting a fan…so I used this one to practice! But to say thank you for…everything and for not mentioning the whole almost-drowning thing when your brother asked what happened to us, I thought maybe I could give this to you! I know it’s not good; it was only my first attempt.”

            Lan Wangji set his books down on the table and took the fan slowly. He held it up, his eyes widening a fraction. The image had been carefully painted—so carefully that some of the lines seemed to shake faintly in their outlines, but it depicted, quite plainly, the two rabbits Lan Wangji had agreed to keep.

            Wei Wuxian was worried he didn’t like it, so he rambled, “Animals are a lot harder to draw than landscapes or people for some reason. I wanted to practice with the colors before I messed up on the one for Shijie, so if it’s really bad, you can throw it away. You definitely don’t have to keep it if it’s ugly. But I thought, if you did want it, you can have it, because I’ll definitely throw it away if I don’t give it to someone, and Jiang Cheng would probably throw it right back in my face, and Nie-xiong likes fans too much to like something so poorly made—not that you don’t appreciate quality, that is; I just mean that I wanted to give you something to say, er, thank you, and I know you like rabbits, so I thought—”

            Jiang Cheng’s voice suddenly came from outside. “Wei Wuxian! Wei Wuxian, where are you?! We have to go! Class is about to start!”

            Wei Wuxian hollered over his shoulder, “I’m coming!!!”

            Jiang Cheng appeared in the doorway. “Hurry up. Lan Qiren’s showing us the wall for Lan An, remember? Try to pay attention today, will you?”

            Wei Wuxian quickly gathered his things. “I’ll leave Shijie’s fan here to dry, Lan Zhan, if that’s okay? See you after class!!”

            Lan Wangji watched Wei Wuxian hurry away. His lips parted to say something, but Wei Wuxian had already darted outside, laughing and talking animatedly to Jiang Cheng.

            Lan Wangji looked back at the fan. He was worried about smudging the paint, so he took it back to his room to dry. He set it on his desk. Beside the fan sat a book of poems he had been reading. Hidden beneath it was another drawing. When Lan Wangji set the fan down, his knuckles accidently knocked the corner of the book, revealing the topmost part of the drawing, a flower on a figure’s head. Lan Wangji straightened the book and returned to the Library Pavilion.

            Inside, he moved the fan for Jiang Yanli to a safer location to dry. He cleaned up the brushes and inks Wei Wuxian had been using and then finally sat down. For a long moment, his gaze lingered on the seat opposite him, and then he got to work.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian rolled over in bed. The sun was streaming through the window, blinding him at such an early hour. He stretched with a soft sound and squinted in the bright room to find Lan Wangji.

            As always at this time of day, he was sitting on one side of the room, meditating. Wei Wuxian smiled. He tucked an arm under his head and admired Lan Wangji unabashedly.

            Wei Wuxian had never taken much to meditation, but he certainly liked watching Lan Wangji do it. It was as though he entered a completely different realm, one that was utterly peaceful. His breaths were deep and even, his expression was calm, and, though he sat with a straight back, he seemed relaxed. His hands rested on his knees, fingers loose.

            He wasn’t wearing his outer robes yet, which meant today was one of his handstand days. On those days, he dressed lighter so nothing hung down or restricted his movement. Wei Wuxian grinned. He liked watching Hanguang-Jun train.

            His level of concentration was higher than anyone else’s in the cultivation world, perhaps rivalled only by that of his older brother’s, so Wei Wuxian knew that when he got up, he wouldn’t disturb his focus.

            He went about his usual morning routine, bathed, and ate a light meal that Lan Wangji had left for him. Wei Wuxian wasn’t loud, but he wasn’t all that quiet, either. Still, nothing he did seemed to register with Lan Wangji, who remained as still and quiet as ever.

            Wei Wuxian was admiring him again from his place at the table, his chin in his hand. He’d finished eating an hour ago, and Lan Wangji was still in the same place. He remembered all too clearly some of the more colorful ways in which he had tried to provoke Lan Wangji when they were kids in the Cloud Recesses. Lan Wangji used to get so mad; he didn’t get mad anymore.

            Wei Wuxian pushed up from the table, walked across the room, and knelt before him now. Lan Wangji didn’t move, didn’t even seem to realize he was there. His breaths were slow and deep. Wei Wuxian brushed the backs of his fingers against Lan Wangji’s cheek softly; other than the slight twitch of his lips as they pulled into a very faint smile, Lan Wangji didn’t react.

            Wei Wuxian grinned widely and inched forward. So he does know I’m here. Interesting...

            He tugged at Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon. Again, his lips merely twitched, but he remained otherwise impassive.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted for some unexplainable reason. His smile softened, and he decided to stop teasing him. He moved to his side and lay down, resting his head on Lan Wangji’s thigh. He exhaled slowly and entered his own form of meditation—which really just consisted of listening to the rhythmic breaths above him.

            Unexpectedly, Lan Wangji moved. Though he was still in meditation, his fingers drifted across Wei Wuxian’s cheek tenderly before returning to his knee. This, of course, made Wei Wuxian grin again. Something thrummed in his chest as he shifted even closer and relaxed.

            After several moments, he mused to himself, Huh, maybe there is something to this meditation stuff after all. This is kind of nice. A little too quiet for my tastes...but then again, quiet is nice, too, when it’s with Lan Zhan. If meditating means I get to snuggle with him more, then I’m sold.

            Another hour passed peacefully before Lan Wangji’s breath lightened. Wei Wuxian looked up just in time to see Lan Wangji’s light-colored eyes fall to his as he smiled. He ran the backs of his fingers against Wei Wuxian’s cheek again. “How did you sleep?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and sat up. He moved closer to Lan Wangji, murmuring, “Fine, until I realized Hanguang-Jun wasn’t beside me anymore.”

            Lan Wangji knew he was exaggerating. Wei Wuxian usually slept very heavily, without noticing whether he’d gotten up or not. There was even one morning in Lotus Pier when Jin Ling had come pounding on the door, but the loud sound hadn’t even woken Wei Wuxian.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze grew even softer. He closed the distance between them slowly. The kiss was tender and warm, making Wei Wuxian’s heart flutter.

            Honestly, he’d never expected it to be like this with anyone. Sure, in his youth, he’d thought abstractly about getting married and having kids one day, but this, with Lan Wangji, was so different than what he’d ever pictured. It was surprising enough that the one he’d found such happiness with was the one he’d teased so much in school—though perhaps that in itself had been a confession—but even more surprising was how every kiss, ever touch felt like the first, and all that cringeworthy, cliché nonsense he’d once considered over-sentimental drabble from lovesick fools.

            He supposed he was the lovesick fool this time.

            He smiled against Lan Wangji’s lips, melting into the kiss even more. I don’t care how over-sentimental it is; I’ll never get used to the way he tastes and feels and sounds. Lan Zhan, you’ve made a lovesick fool out of me!!!

            When they parted, Wei Wuxian’s cheeks were a little flushed, his eyes a little heavy. He breathed, “Time for the handstands?” Lan Wangji’s habit was to first meditate and then do handstands to train both his strength and cultivation.

            Lan Wangji nodded, eyes drifting to Wei Wuxian’s reddened lips.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Luckily, you can do that and keep kissing me at the same time, right? Should be easy for the great Hanguang-Jun!”

            Lan Wangji gave a small, amused smile. He ran his thumb against Wei Wuxian’s lower lip affectionately before he stood.

            Wei Wuxian lay back against the floor, motioning him forward with a salacious grin. “I wasn’t kidding, Lan Er-Gege. Show me what you can do.”

            Lan Wangji exhaled a little sharply at the name, but Wei Wuxian knew he liked it—he must, or he wouldn’t get so embarrassed hearing it.

            Despite his words, Wei Wuxian had been half-kidding, so it took him by surprise when Lan Wangji circled around to stand above his head, bent over him, placed his hands down by Wei Wuxian’s ribs, and smoothly transitioned into a handstand.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart leapt into his throat at the proximity, and he grinned. He sat up, leaning on one elbow to make the position work, and pressed their lips together.

            It took a second for Wei Wuxian to adjust, but the kiss sent both heat and butterflies racing through his stomach and across his skin. For a long time, it was gradual, an exploration of this new angle, but then it grew more ardent. Wei Wuxian pulled Lan Wangji’s lower lip between his teeth and bit it softly before he continued even more eagerly.

            Of course, Lan Wangji’s handstand was unaffected, but he wasn’t unmoved, either. His breath picked up, and he met the kiss as fervently as he could.

            Wei Wuxian realized with belated excitement how much power this position granted him. Lan Wangji always had his hands free to hold him, caress him, shower him with love and attention, but now, his hands were occupied. He couldn’t touch him, couldn’t reach for him—couldn’t even really lean forward without compromising his balance.

            Naturally, Wei Wuxian couldn’t be given this power and not abuse it a little. He pulled from the kiss without warning, listening to the stuttered breath that escaped Lan Wangji in his absence. The sound rippled through Wei Wuxian’s lower body. He grinned when Lan Wangji tried to kiss him again; such a simple act made a column of fire race down his spine. He’d never get over the ways in which Lan Wangji proved how much he wanted him; he’d once thought Lan Wangji was the type of person who would never want for anything or anyone. The fact that he wanted, needed, Wei Wuxian made him feel hot all over.

            Wei Wuxian continued to abuse the position, not quite letting their lips press together, savoring how rapidly Lan Wangji’s breath was moving.

            Finally, Lan Wangji whispered faintly, “Wei Ying…”

            He sounded so turned on already that Wei Wuxian’s heart flipped. He gave in at once, closing the distance between them and kissing him as feverishly as he could with the upside-down position. When Lan Wangji deepened the kiss, Wei Wuxian moaned softly, already panting.

            Honestly, he hadn’t meant for it to turn out this way but kissing Lan Wangji had this inevitable effect on him. He really couldn’t help the way his body was responding.

            Lan Wangji’s breaths were running just as fast as his, but he maintained the handstand without fault, his arms not even shaking from the strain.

            But Wei Wuxian’s sounds were clearly affecting him. Though his posture was as solid as ever, his fingers curled faintly against the floor. He released a soft sound of his own, a low moan that shot straight to Wei Wuxian’s lower abdomen.

            He shifted his hips, instinctively seeking friction from Lan Wangji’s body and finding none. He’d been hard for quite a while now, and his mind tripped over the idea that Lan Wangji might be, too.

            Mischief was one of his favorite pastimes, however, so he pulled away from Lan Wangji’s lips by a paper’s width and panted, “Lan Zhan, how long do you think you can keep up the handstand?”

            Lan Wangji replied without missing a beat, “As long as you want me to.”

            At another rush of heat, Wei Wuxian’s decision was made for him. He flushed a shade darker even as he grinned. “Oh? Is that so? Then I want you to stay just like this until I finish.”

            Lan Wangji was confused at first. “Finish?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded. The rest of his answer came when he began palming himself through his clothes. Though Lan Wangji couldn’t see what his hand was doing, he was intimately familiar with the shuddering breath Wei Wuxian released and the pinch of his eyebrows.

            His own breath fell unevenly. “Wei Ying—” He kissed him again with a newfound sense of urgency, listening intently to everything happening around him.

            Wei Wuxian gave a greedy sound as he took himself in hand. His own fingers didn’t feel as good, but the excitement of touching himself when Lan Wangji couldn’t made everything feel a bit electric.

            His touch was a bit rough at first, but his new body had the tendency of getting a bit excited in such situations. It didn’t take too long before fluid began to pearl at his tip, slipping down his length to ease his motions.

            Lan Wangji groaned at the slick sound behind him, breaths shuddering out of him now. His arms were still as steady as ever, but his first knuckles were bone-white from the way he was gripping the floor.

            Wei Wuxian pulled back from the kiss with another hitched sound. He teased breathlessly, “My Hanguang-Jun is so strong.” He twisted his wrist in an upstroke and trembled with a soft moan that made Lan Wangji’s breath run faster. “Lan Zhan, feels so good, but…ngh, wish you were the one touching me…haa…Are you hard, Lan Zhan? Do you need—”

            His teasing was cut off with another bruising kiss. Lan Wangji’s tongue brushed against his heatedly as he swallowed the sounds Wei Wuxian made.

            Wei Wuxian quickened his pace. Something about the idea that Lan Wangji wanted him so badly but couldn’t touch him was really doing it for him. His breaths caught as he hurtled to the edge surprisingly fast. He pulled from Lan Wangji’s lips to offer a strained groan of his name, curling forward a little as he spilled over his fingers.

            The second he released, Lan Wangji broke the position. He shifted to one side, somehow managing a graceful decline before he pressed against Wei Wuxian to kiss him properly.

            Wei Wuxian was still reeling and moaned into the kiss. It had been a quick release, satisfying in its own right but nowhere close to what he really wanted, so he wasn’t terribly surprised to find himself still hard.

            Lan Wangji’s hardness pressed against his through his clothes as he hitched Wei Wuxian’s thigh over his hip. For a moment, he grinded against him blindly, savoring the relief that first touch provided.

            Wei Wuxian threw his arms around his neck, grunting as the initial oversensitivity melted into pleasure. His hand slid between them to palm Lan Wangji. The pressure had Lan Wangji groaning softly, and he made short work of their clothes. They didn’t bother with removing anything that wasn’t necessary, too absentminded to undress properly. They didn’t even bother with the hassle of moving off the floor.

            Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss with a grin, enthralled by Lan Wangji’s somewhat ravenous expression. “What do you need, Lan Zhan? Want me to stroke you off? Take you in my mouth? Or do you want to fuck me until I—”

            Lan Wangji really couldn’t take such words. His earlobes were a dark color as he finally cut Wei Wuxian off, grinding against his hand before he managed to reach for the bottle they had started to keep nearby for such spontaneous moments. He pressed a finger low on Wei Wuxian, enjoying the way his breath stuttered as he teased the ring of muscles. While his fingers prepped Wei Wuxian, he kissed, licked, bit, and sucked his way down Wei Wuxian’s neck, marking his skin carelessly.

            Wei Wuxian was blinded by it all. Still reeling from his previous orgasm and treated to the slender fingers that pressed relentlessly against the spot inside him that made his legs weak, Wei Wuxian was already a mess. He felt lightheaded, clinging to Lan Wangji as he bared his neck.

            As usual, he began rambling, “Ngh, yes, mark me, Lan Zhan—I’m yours, yours, only yours. Mark me, let everyone see I belong to you and only—” He whimpered, hips jolting and shaking as Lan Wangji pressed harder against that sensitive spot. His release from earlier was growing a bit cold on his skin now, but he barely noticed, his length already leaking against his stomach again. He groaned, “D-don’t touch me this time, Lan Zhan…ngh…wanna…haa…w-wanna come just from you fucking me—”

            Lan Wangji’s responding sound made Wei Wuxian feel shaky as he kissed him. He pulled his hand away to line himself up, and then he gripped Wei Wuxian’s thigh, wet fingers leaving long marks as he sank into Wei Wuxian’s velvety heat.

            Wei Wuxian shook as Lan Wangji filled him. He’d never come untouched from this before, though he’d often been close; he wasn’t sure if he could, but he damn sure wanted to try.

            When Lan Wangji’s hips met his, he stopped, savoring the way Wei Wuxian felt around him. One hand sought Wei Wuxian’s, interlacing their fingers tightly. The other loosened its grasp on his thigh, trailing up and around his hip to the small of his back.

            Wei Wuxian took the small reprieve to try to slow his pulse; he wasn’t sure if Lan Wangji wanted it slow or fast, but he wanted to be prepared either way.

            Lan Wangji didn’t move for a long time. When he did, he only slowly rocked his hips, grinding against that spot that had Wei Wuxian seeing stars.

            Wei Wuxian broke from his lips with a startled moan, his expression distorting. He arched his back and offered his neck once more. Lan Wangji returned to it, soothing over the places he’d marked earlier before making new ones.

            It was all far too much. Wei Wuxian felt a thrum under his skin that wouldn’t fade, a slow-building tension that left him taut and desperate for more. His length throbbed and leaked against his stomach, twitching the longer Lan Wangji maintained his perfect grind.

            His lips were parted in a stream of curses and praises alike. “Ngh! Haa—L-Lan Zhan, fuck, j-just like that, feels so…feels so fucking—haa, ngh…L-Lan Zhan, Lan Er-Gege, Hanguang-Jun…S-say something, talk to me—w-wanna hear your voice, please, anything—”

            Lan Wangji gave a breathless moan at how wrecked Wei Wuxian sounded. He moved to his ear. “So beautiful, Wei Ying…Every day. Let me hear you.”

            A full-body shudder wracked Wei Wuxian at the closest thing to dirty talk Lan Wangji had ever given him. A desperate sound was pulled from deep within his chest. Lan Wangji tightened his fingers around Wei Wuxian’s with one hand and lifted his hips a bit higher off the ground with the other.

            The position made his already-perfect grinds become even more pinpoint accurate. Wei Wuxian gasped. One foot slammed against the floor as he arched up, and then he wrapped the leg around Lan Wangji’s waist.

            Wei Wuxian needed more of his voice, whimpering, “Is it good, Lan Zhan? Do I—ngh—do I feel good around you?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened as he breathed, “Always, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian felt entirely too lightheaded. Heat rushed across his skin as another moan broke from his throat. He was so close; he could feel it building steadily under his skin, throbbing in time with his heartbeat as Lan Wangji maintained his rhythm.

            This was another thing that always floored him—Lan Wangji put Wei Wuxian’s pleasure before his own. He wished he could say the same. He wanted to be so giving, but whenever it got to his point, his thoughts grew fuzzy, and he couldn’t focus on anything other than the pleasure spiking in his abdomen. To make matters even more complicated, Lan Wangji seemed to thrive on these moments, seemed to do it on purpose, as though he enjoyed watching the way Wei Wuxian fell apart.

            Lan Wangji picked up his pace, grinding into him a little harder. His breaths grew shallower, his forehead dropping to his shoulder. Wei Wuxian realized he was close, and that knowledge was far too powerful.

            He whimpered, fingers squeezing the ever-living life out of Lan Wangji’s as he groaned, “L-Lan Zhan, so…so close…ngh—you feel so good…please…I-I’m so…Lan Zhan, just a little…ngh, just a little more, Lan Zhan, please, please…”

            Lan Wangji leaned into his ear again. “Come with me, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian wouldn’t have been more shocked if a bolt of lightning had struck him. He had never heard Lan Wangji say anything even remotely like that. Hearing such a phrase in Lan Wangji’s low, deep, breathy tone was far, far too much.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes rolled back. He gave the richest, sultriest, and frankly the neediest sound he had probably ever given, so turned on that his brain felt like it was short circuiting. He cried out Lan Wangji’s name in response to the statement, arching his back, but the explosion didn’t hit the same way it always had. It built slower, throbbing under his skin, and when it finally hit, he couldn’t even find his voice. He tensed up, hugging Lan Wangji’s neck as his lips parted in a silent cry. He felt himself twitch and spill over his stomach, but that was overwhelmed by the buzzing sensation thrumming across his entire body. A choked moan finally escaped from his throat, followed by a shuddering gasp as his muscles fluttered around Lan Wangji.

            As Lan Wangji felt the intensity of Wei Wuxian’s release, it triggered his own. He dropped his head to his shoulder, grinded into him a few more times before pleasure overtook him, too. He groaned Wei Wuxian’s name against his sweaty skin, feeling the way Wei Wuxian twitched and pulsed and throbbed beneath him.

            Lan Wangji kissed him, moaning softly into his mouth. He ran his fingers down Wei Wuxian’s side, guiding him through the feeling with gentle words and tender touches.

            When Wei Wuxian finally collapsed, his chest was heaving, and his limbs felt like noodles. He whimpered Lan Wangji’s name repeatedly, shaking faintly.

            Lan Wangji held him close, kissing a path across his skin. “Beautiful, Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart was as overwhelmed as the rest of him. He couldn’t form a coherent thought, much less reply with any elegance.

            Lan Wangji took care of everything afterwards, as he always did. With tender caresses, soft kisses, and even softer words, he cleaned them both up and drew a bath.

            Wei Wuxian joked as he shakily stepped, “I really take too many baths in a day; I should know better than to take one beforehand.”

            Lan Wangji laughed quietly, stepping in behind him. Wei Wuxian leaned against his chest, still panting as Lan Wangji grabbed the cloth.

            As usual, he let Lan Wangji do all the work. He closed his eyes and hummed. After a moment, his stomach growled noisily, and he chuckled, “Who knew meditating took so much energy?”

            A soft laugh came through Lan Wangji’s nose as he kissed his temple. “We will go to the docks after.”

            Wei Wuxian silently celebrated. “Whatever I want?!”

            Lan Wangji nodded with a tender smile. “Always, Wei Ying.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian was in awe.

            Five hours.

            He had been edging Lan Wangji for five…hours.

            Such a thing shouldn’t have been possible—at least, not for someone like Wei Wuxian. They had certainly played this game plenty of times with him on the receiving end, but he’d always broken well before it reached five hours.

            He had already ruined his own trousers once—an accident he couldn’t quite seem to feel embarrassed about. They had only just begun when it had happened. Wei Wuxian had been so worked up by the look on Lan Wangji’s face, the way he felt in his hand, the way his name curled off his tongue, that he had completely lost control. It had only taken a single roll against Lan Wangji’s thigh to have him gasping and curling in on himself, but he didn’t let the unexpected release stop him; he’d immediately gotten back to work, heart pounding at the low sound Lan Wangji had given when he’d realized what had happened.

            Five heady hours later, Wei Wuxian had completely lost the ability to think straight. It was honestly difficult for him to remember how this had even begun. His higher brain power had been solely reduced to keeping his hand moving. Eyes glazed, he couldn’t stop staring at Lan Wangji, his own lips parted at the hazy arousal swirling through his entire body.

            It had started with a simple request; he wanted Lan Wangji to say something, and Lan Wangji refused. He’d begun to play with Lan Wangji. At first with teasing words over dinner, then deep kisses, during which he wouldn’t let Lan Wangji touch him, pushing his hands away whenever he tried. That had carried them over to the bed, where Wei Wuxian had decided to tease him even more. He certainly hadn’t expected it to span five hours, stroking Lan Wangji to the very edge before denying him release over and over and over again. Wei Wuxian had spent the entire time mesmerized, straddling Lan Wangji’s thigh as he struggled to maintain control over himself.

            So far, Lan Wangji’s stubbornness had outweighed Wei Wuxian’s best efforts.

            He’d always known Lan Wangji had incredible stamina and willpower, of course, but this…this was a bit too unreal.

            What was even more mind-numbing about this whole thing was just how gorgeous his Hanguang-Jun looked like this.

            Whenever Wei Wuxian was in his position—which was always—he never handled it as gracefully or elegantly as Lan Wangji was. He turned into a downright pleading, crying mess.

            But Lan Wangji wasn’t one to beg. He endured it all almost silently—the almost making everything all the more thrilling for Wei Wuxian.

            His eyes roved over Hanguang-Jun again, missing no details.

            Lan Wangji’s expression almost seemed pained, but Wei Wuxian knew from experience how intoxicating it felt to get close only to be denied—a pleasure that verged on pain and made every following touch feel more and more powerful.

            Though Lan Wangji’s control was otherworldly, it still had to feel torturous at this point. He’d been brought to the brink countless times—Wei Wuxian had no idea how many anymore but judging from how wet and angry his length looked in Wei Wuxian’s quaking fingers, it had been too many.

            Wei Wuxian had been drunk many times in his life—both lifetimes, in fact—but he had never felt as intoxicated as he did right now without a single drop of liquor. Lan Wangji’s expression was everything. It was the same beautifully distorted look he offered in these intimate moments—the one that looked almost vulnerable in its transparency, the one that sent Wei Wuxian’s heart flying and had heat coiling low in his abdomen.

            Lan Wangji’s skin was slick with sweat. Though the night was rather cool this far north, the strain of being suspended for so long had sweat rolling off his body, glistening in the low candlelight. His eyes were tightly closed; his eyebrows were drawn together, tilting up slightly in that way that made Wei Wuxian ache for him even more. His lips were red from their intermittent, bruising kisses, parted as he gasped softly. One of his hands was fisted in the blankets beneath him, knuckles pale, while the other was squeezing Wei Wuxian’s clothed thigh hard enough to hurt.

            Clothed, only because Wei Wuxian knew his own limits. If he’d undressed, there was no way he would have been able to stop himself from climbing over Lan Wangji four hours ago. 

            Wei Wuxian honestly wasn’t faring much better. His head was foggy with arousal, his eyelids heavy with desire. His hair had mostly fallen free from his usual style, sticking to his neck and face. An unremitting flush had spread across his cheeks and down his heaving chest, and his hands wouldn’t stop shaking. His stomach trembled as much as Lan Wangji’s, his own length throbbing and aching in the confines of his trousers. He wanted nothing more than to crawl over him and bring this sweet torture to an end.

            But he refused to back down. It might have been a losing battle, but Wei Wuxian wasn’t one to turn away from a challenge.

            In a shaky, thick voice that dripped with desire, Wei Wuxian panted, “Say it, Lan Zhan…say it, and I’ll let you come.” Fuck if that sentence didn’t turn him on even more. He seldom had so much power over Hanguang-Jun; the weight of it was staggering.

            Hearing the husky note in his tone, Lan Wangji’s head fell back against the bed. His chest heaved as his fingers tightened in the blanket. A low groan was pulled from somewhere deep within him, and his length gave a violent pulse that served as a warning.

            Wei Wuxian immediately stilled his hand. He didn’t remove it, but he was very careful not to add any pressure. He used the same method Lan Wangji used when he edged him.

            In response, Lan Wangji released another low, whispered sound that came out almost anguished in its disappointment. It was enough to make Wei Wuxian forget how to breathe.

            He squeezed his eyes shut, hanging his head. He was so turned on, he couldn’t form a coherent thought. Lan Wangji’s name broke from his lips in nearly whining fashion. His free fingers ran through the sweat dewing Lan Wangji’s abdomen, craving the way Lan Wangji trembled for him.

            It took a long moment for Wei Wuxian to regain control. He did his best to tame the heady scent of sandalwood and the arousal swirling around his head. His fingers itched to reach for himself, to relieve a small bit of pressure, but he kept them away, wary of losing focus.

            When he managed to open his eyes, he saw Lan Wangji watching him. His gaze was so heavy that Wei Wuxian weakened. His eyes were impossibly dilated, fixed on Wei Wuxian with a weighted flicker of desperation he’d never seen. Lan Wangji looked like he needed him in a way he’d never needed him before.

            It made Wei Wuxian’s body clench around nothing. He rambled dizzily, “Fuck, Lan Zhan, you look so good right now…so beautiful…want you so badly…n-need you so much…”

            Lan Wangji’s length twitched at the way his voice trembled. He slurred a heavy, “Wei Ying,” that did nothing to abate the heat throbbing through Wei Wuxian’s entire body.

            His resolve crumbled. He wasn’t very good at being the one in control of these moments; after a while, he couldn’t do anything more than react. Lan Wangji was far better at concentrating, at ignoring his own needs to focus on Wei Wuxian’s.

            As his control slipped, Wei Wuxian reached down to palm himself, hoping to take the edge off. But as a throaty whine slipped out, he realized he was absurdly close to coming himself.

            Lan Wangji tracked the movement with heavy-lidded eyes. His fingers squeezed Wei Wuxian’s thigh. He surged up, slotting their lips together with a quiet groan. The kiss was a bit sloppy, but neither one cared.

            Wei Wuxian took his fingers off himself and began to move his other hand once more. Immediately, Lan Wangji tensed, breath hitching against the kiss.

            Wei Wuxian’s mind blanked. No wonder Lan Wangji loved doing this to him so often; it really was like being drunk, only better. Rather than have his senses dulled, he felt hyperaware of every movement from Lan Wangji, every breath, every squeeze, every tremble, every strained whisper of his name.

            He pulled from the kiss, more turned on than he could admit at the string of saliva that connected them. It seemed almost dirty in a bizarre way, and he loved it. He twisted his wrist with an upstroke. “Just say it, Lan Zhan.” His lips curled up playfully. “Call me Gege, and I’ll let you come.”

            Lan Wangji pressed his lips together, eyebrows drawing even closer.

            Wei Wuxian pushed him back against the bed, working his hand faster. “I call you Gege almost every day, and you’ve never called me it even once. Let me hear you say it. I promise, I’ll make you feel so good. Don’t you want me to make you feel good, Lan Zhan?”    

            A strangled breath fell from him in response, his fingers tightening even more.

            Wei Wuxian set a pace that had Lan Wangji’s hips tilting off the bed. A startled moan broke from Lan Wangji, the sound of it shooting straight to Wei Wuxian’s length. He felt impossibly lightheaded, closing his eyes as sweat slipped down his temples. “Fuck, Lan Zhan, you sound so good…feel so good…want you so much. Say it, Lan Zhan, say it so we can come together. I want to make you come so hard you can’t even fucking think, want to treat you as good as you treat me every day.”

            Lan Wangji’s abdomen tensed, his muscles growing prominent. A strained, guttural sound slipped through his teeth. His back arched a little as he panted, “Wei-Wei Ying!”

            Wei Wuxian realized it was a warning almost too late. Hurrying to clamp his fingers around the base of Lan Wangji’s length, he groaned and hung his head again. Lan Wangji was getting close so much faster now.    

            Wei Wuxian’s mind was fuzzy, but he managed to muse with some level of clarity, When he finally comes, I don’t even know how good it’ll feel…Ah, but he’s just so stubborn! How long can he possibly go on like this?! At this rate, my wrist will give out long before he does!

            As soon as he looked up, all those thoughts evaporated.

            Of course, his Hanguang-Jun was always beautiful—ethereal, even. But there was a different kind of beauty unique to these moments, a beauty Wei Wuxian alone had the privilege to see, a vulnerability that made his heart tremble.

            He tipped forward, whimpering softly at the ache in both his chest and his body.

            Lan Wangji met his kiss breathlessly. His lips moved with an urgency he’d never given Wei Wuxian before—never had reason to give him. When he offered a raw, needy moan, it made Wei Wuxian feel even more unsteady. His control lapsed once more, and his hips rutted down against Lan Wangji’s thigh. Before he could even process it, a wild, fast pleasure tore through him. He broke from the kiss with a gasp, dropping his head as his movements grew almost frantic.

            Lan Wangji realized what was happening and groaned, pulling Wei Wuxian harder against his leg to prolong the release. His own length gave a violent pulse in Wei Wuxian’s motionless fingers as he seemed to almost writhe. He breathed his name through it, panting ridiculously fast. “Wei…Wei Ying…Wei Ying…every day…want you, need you…let me hear you…”

            The moan that fell from Wei Wuxian pitched with the emotion churning in his chest. His eyes pricked as he suddenly felt overwhelmed. Even when he wasn’t the one in control, Lan Wangji still lavished him with love and attention.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled at his own tears, shaking his head. He kissed Lan Wangji feverishly. Lan Wangji caught his cheek, deepening it until the kiss grew sloppy again between their breathless groans.

            Wei Wuxian waited until the last dregs of his orgasm faded before he pulled back far enough to see Lan Wangji. “Are you okay to keep going, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji gave a loose nod, meeting his gaze hazily.

            Wei Wuxian burst, “How?! Are you even human?!”

            Lan Wangji surprised him with a breathless laugh. He seemed almost drunk, but even when he was drunk, he didn’t look like this. Softly, he panted, “Again.”

            Another whine was pulled from Wei Wuxian. He entered the same rhythm as before. For a moment, Lan Wangji pressed their foreheads together, but when it got to be too much, his head fell back to the bed, his hips raising to meet Wei Wuxian’s hand on their own.

            Wei Wuxian wondered what he could do to try to break Lan Wangji. He still didn’t think he could, but he was enjoying the game too much to give up.

            With the thought, he leaned down to Lan Wangji’s ear. He breathed all the dirtiest things he’d ever said in the most colorful terms he could conjure—all the things he knew turned Lan Wangji on as much as they embarrassed him. Lan Wangji shuddered under him, grasping at his waist as gasps and grunts fell from his lips. He angled his head towards Wei Wuxian’s as he spoke, nose brushing against his skin, breaths bursting against his neck. He lifted a hand to Wei Wuxian’s hair, lacing his fingers through the messy strands. Soft moans of his name broke from him every few breaths, his body moving in time with Wei Wuxian’s hand.

            Wei Wuxian had begun to harden again, the situation and his own words causing another wave of arousal to sweep over him. His tone grew huskier as he explained to Lan Wangji all the things he wanted to do to him, with him, for him. He also added all the things he wanted to do to himself, since Lan Wangji was preoccupied and all. Those especially seemed to make Lan Wangji’s breaths grow shallower. His lips brushed across Wei Wuxian’s jaw, his tongue pressing down with his kiss. The feeling made Wei Wuxian shudder, but he didn’t stop, letting his words grow even more sultry, so turned on by Lan Wangji’s reaction that he felt desperation crawl into his stomach again. 

            When Wei Wuxian finished speaking, he was amazed that Lan Wangji hadn’t needed him to stop.

            However, seconds later when he heard Lan Wangji finally breathe something against his skin, Wei Wuxian was so shocked that he was certain he had misheard.

            He picked up his head, eyes wide, and whispered, “What did you say?”

            Lan Wangji’s cheeks were flushed for once. His ears were crimson, and the blush spread even down to his collarbones. Without opening his eyes, through red-kissed lips, he repeated very hesitantly, “W-Wei…Wei Ge…ge…”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened even more. He was so stunned that several seconds passed in utter silence.

            He…He broke?!

            He broke!!!

            When he finally recovered, he moaned, “Fuck, Lan Zhan…you…you—” He kissed him before he even finished his own thought. He entered into the same rhythm as before, twisting his numb wrist with every upstroke. He didn’t rush, but he promised release this time in his movements.

            Lan Wangji tensed as he felt the change. His hips twitched, length pulsing in time with his heartbeat. He grunted against Wei Wuxian’s mouth, desperation making his tone lower, breathier.

            But right when he got close, he caught Wei Wuxian’s wrist with a pained sound and made him stop.

            Wei Wuxian felt his own length throb in response. “What’s wrong?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t answer. He surged up against him, grabbed Wei Wuxian’s hips, and lifted him so he could kneel. He pressed Wei Wuxian against the wall by the bed, kissing him with an urgency he’d never had before.

            Wei Wuxian grew even more lightheaded. He kept his hand between them, entering into another pace that had Lan Wangji’s hips thrusting to meet him. Sweat rolled down his temples, the forceful movements from Lan Wangji making him whimper.        

            When he couldn’t take it anymore, Lan Wangji reached for his hands and pinned both of them to the wall over their heads. He groaned as he broke from the kiss, retreating from the edge again.

            Wei Wuxian released a melodic whine. It was all far too much. He rambled, “Lan Zhan, ngh, Lan Zhan…you sound so good, feel so good…want you so fucking much, need you—take me, please, fuck me, Lan Zhan, I can’t, I need you, need to feel you inside me—”  

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened on his wrists before he reached down to pull Wei Wuxian’s trousers off. Wei Wuxian hurried to climb into his lap again. Fluid from his own length dripped between them, combining with their sweat.

            Lan Wangji gave a quiet moan at the sight. He dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, fingers tightening on his waist.

            Wei Wuxian realized why he was hesitating. Originally, he’d made it part of their game that Lan Wangji wasn’t allowed to touch him—another way to drive him crazy—but Wei Wuxian couldn’t care less about his own rules.

            “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, please, touch me, fuck me, use me, fill me, please—”

            The words spilled out of him almost in a single breath. Lan Wangji surged up again to kiss him, groaning a bit louder than he normally did. His hips seemed to thrust forward, instinctively searching for friction. They both found it when their lengths slid together.

            Wei Wuxian cried out at the first touch in almost six hours. “Hngh, p-please, Lan Zhan, Hanguang-Jun, Lan Er-Gege, fuck me, take—”  

            Lan Wangji pressed a hand over his mouth. He was shaking with need, but he still had the presence of mind to remember where they were. “N-not so loud, Wei Ying.”

            The stutter only made Wei Wuxian squirm more. He reached between them, stroking Lan Wangji’s length as he brought it to him. He sank down easily, whimpering against Lan Wangji’s hand.

            Lan Wangji exhaled shakily, more verbal today than usual. He reached up with his other hand, clutching the windowsill so hard that Wei Wuxian swore he heard the wood crack. Neither of them moved, feeling the way Lan Wangji’s length gave a violent pulse from the velvety heat alone. His fingers tightened on the wood as he fought for control.

            The idea of Lan Wangji finally, finally losing that control was too much to bear. Wei Wuxian mouthed at Lan Wangji’s palm, fingers digging into his shoulders.

            Lan Wangji released Wei Wuxian's wrists, running his fingers down his chest. When his thumb grazed a hardened nipple, Wei Wuxian rolled his hips and threw his head back with a wild moan. Many parts of Wei Wuxian were sensitive, but this was one of the more erogenous areas.

            Lan Wangji dipped his head, capturing the bud between his teeth. His tongue pressed down with a kiss, and Wei Wuxian shook, sounds rattling out of him. He felt the way Lan Wangji pulsed inside him, heard the way the windowsill creaked over his head.

            His fingers continued on their path, drifting across Wei Wuxian’s shaking stomach to his dripping length.

            He only managed a single stroke before Wei Wuxian jolted, crying out as his eyes squeezed shut, “L-Lan Zhan, ngh!” But the warning came too late. Back arching, a violent pleasure crashed over him. His lips parted in a heady moan as his nails dug into Lan Wangji’s shoulders.

            Hearing him and feeling the way his muscles contracted around him was too much. Lan Wangji’s hips thrust forward instinctively, his body shaking. A strangled, “Wei…Wei Ying—!” broke from his lips as his head moved to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered as he felt Lan Wangji come harder than he ever had. Lan Wangji guided Wei Wuxian’s hips to his own as he nearly writhed under the force of it. Something cracked over Wei Wuxian’s head, and Lan Wangji’s arm fell a little, but Wei Wuxian couldn’t even think clearly enough to understand what had happened.

            Though he was starting to feel a little oversensitive, he couldn’t help rolling against Lan Wangji through his release, feeling the way Lan Wangji urgently pulled him closer, fingers high on the back of his thigh. Even as Wei Wuxian’s orgasm faded, Lan Wangji remained suspended, moaning Wei Wuxian’s name more liberally than usual. He slotted their lips together, kissing him almost exhaustedly, grunting as his hips twitched.

            He only maintained the position long enough for the intensity to dwindle, and then he collapsed.

            He pulled Wei Wuxian with him, somehow managing a graceful descent to the bed. Wei Wuxian fell over his chest, too exhausted to roll over. Lan Wangji’s heart hammered under his ear. A final, breathy groan vibrated through his chest, his fingers raking down Wei Wuxian’s back tenderly.

            For a long time, neither of them could move. Low gasps and soft whispers of each other’s names filled the room.

            When Wei Wuxian managed to pry his eyes open, the first thing he saw made him chuckle shakily. He hummed, “Lan Zhan…you broke the windowsill.”

            Lan Wangji laughed softly through his nose, still breathing hard. He pulled Wei Wuxian to his lips, entering into a kiss that felt languid compared to the heat from earlier.

            It made Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows draw together. Something about it seemed so emotional that his heart trembled. He crawled higher up Lan Wangji, kissing him back as adamantly. He moaned quietly into it, fingers drifting across Lan Wangji’s cheek. After a moment, he trailed kisses down to his jaw, murmuring, “Wei Gege…I like the sound of it.”

            Lan Wangji’s breath caught as his earlobe darkened. “Wei Ying…” 

            Wei Wuxian laughed giddily, wrapping his arms around his neck. He rolled them both over until Lan Wangji was laying over him. Kissing his temple, he mused, “I can’t believe you cracked in just six hours. Tch, Lan Zhan, how can this be? I thought you were a pillar of strength and self-control!”

            Lan Wangji pulled his head up to meet his gaze. An affectionately soft smile drifted across his lips as his nose brushed Wei Wuxian’s. When he kissed him again, his touch was even softer. “Every day…”

            Wei Wuxian tightened his arms, deliberately misinterpreting, “You’ll call me Wei Gege every day?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers trailed across his skin. “Wei Ying.”

            “Mm?”

            His expression was open and bare, the emotion as prevalent in his eyes as in his tone. “Every day.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted as his grin spread. “Every day, Lan Zhan.” Their kiss was just as heavy as their words, communicating more than they could express verbally. When they broke apart, Wei Wuxian mused, “How are we going to explain the window?”

            Lan Wangji glanced at the cracked frame before folding Wei Wuxian in his arms. “I will pay.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “That’s always your solution. I’m starting to think we’re not so much traveling around, being wherever the chaos is, as we are traveling around, destroying private property.” He felt the curve of Lan Wangji’s smile against his skin, and his heart soared. “Then again, who am I to complain?” He snuggled closer and sighed contentedly. “After all, every day means every day.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian’s fingers drummed against the table listlessly. His chin rested in his other hand as he made a face at the wall opposite him.

            As far as inns went, this was one of the nicer ones they’d stayed at, but Wei Wuxian couldn’t really appreciate it at the moment. He was too busy lamenting his own situation.

            Lan Wangji had so far resisted his every attempt to escape—and some of those attempts had been foolproof! After he’d failed too many times at trying to literally run away, Wei Wuxian had switched tactics. If he couldn’t flee from Lan Wangji, he would smother him in as much unnecessary, invasive attention as he could. He had begun to cling to the dignified Hanguang-Jun in an entirely undignified way, staying far too close for anyone’s tolerance, especially someone who didn’t like to be touched by people he wasn’t familiar with.

            But despite Wei Wuxian’s best efforts, he still had nothing to show for it.

            He just couldn’t understand it. He’d said the most outrageous stuff, done the most embarrassing things, and nothing! He’d teased, poked, prodded, hugged, flirted, followed—everything he could think of to be a general nuisance, all to make Hanguang-Jun uncomfortable, and nothing worked at all!

            In the past, if he’d so much as sneezed funny, Lan Wangji would’ve scolded him; today, even if he were to wrap himself around Lan Wangji’s leg as a dead weight, Lan Wangji would probably just keep walking without comment.

            What the hell was all that about?!

            This was even worse than when he’d been locked up inside the Cloud Recesses; at least there, he’d had some measure of freedom. Now, Lan Wangji barely let him out of his sight and seemed to always be three steps ahead of whatever escape attempt Wei Wuxian plotted.

            But Wei Wuxian was nothing if not persistent. When he wanted something, he didn’t stop at anything until he got it—and he wanted to leave. He couldn’t have Lan Wangji finding out who he has. Things had been bad between them in his previous life, and Wei Wuxian didn’t even want to think about what would happen if Lan Wangji realized who he was.

            He didn’t want to fight with Lan Wangji; he wanted to sneak away. He wanted to summon Wen Ning to find out why he was unconscious and how he was even still alive in the first place.

            With a sigh, Wei Wuxian stopped tapping his fingers. It wasn’t that he hated Lan Wangji—he didn’t even dislike him. In fact, he’d gone out of his way many times in his previous life to try to be friends with Lan Wangji. But something had always interfered with that, and now he didn’t have the face to reveal himself as the Yiling Laozu.

            He couldn’t deny that he had complicated feelings about the Hanguang-Jun today. Lan Wangji was seemingly impossible to anger and had become even quieter and calmer throughout the years. No matter what Wei Wuxian threw at him, he accepted it all emotionlessly, letting Wei Wuxian figuratively and literally tire himself out—but still, he did whatever Wei Wuxian asked, without question or complaint.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t know what to make of that. If he didn’t know any better, he might have even wondered whether Lan Wangji and Mo Xuanyu hadn’t had some sort of complicated relationship in the last thirteen years.

            He heard Lan Wangji’s quiet voice outside the door, receiving their meal. A moment later, the door slid open, and he returned with a tray piled with steaming dishes, a teapot, and two cups.

            Wei Wuxian mused, “Tea or alcohol? Because I could really do with some—”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “It is tea.”

            Wei Wuxian, “—tea. You read my mind, Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips seemed to faintly twitch as he set the tray down. Wei Wuxian peeked at it curiously, surprised to see most of the dishes were tainted red with spice. Only one bowl of rice and one plate of vegetables were plain.

            Wei Wuxian picked up his chopsticks as Lan Wangji sat. He dropped his chin into his hand again, giving the other his most charming smile. “I always heard people from the Lan Sect like plain foods, but every day, you order us spicy dinners. I had no idea Hanguang-Jun had such a bold palate.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t look up. “Eat slowly.”

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head. “Hanguang-Jun?”

            Lan Wangji still didn’t look at him, pouring tea into both cups. “Mm.”

            In the saddest voice he could conjure, Wei Wuxian pouted, “Hanguang-Jun…won’t you even glance up at me? You’ve avoided me ever since this morning. It hurts my feelings when you ignore me like this.”

            Lan Wangji seemed to sigh very quietly before he lifted his gaze. His expression was impassive as he met Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

            At once, a beaming smile replaced the pout. Wei Wuxian’s hair fell over one shoulder as he leaned forward eagerly. “Aw, Hanguang-Jun, you really did look at me!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t respond to his tone with anything but a blank look. “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head, “Nothing. I just wanted to know if you’d do what I asked.”

            Lan Wangji looked at him a moment longer. Something unreadable flashed across his eyes before he lowered them.

            A soft chuckle broke from Wei Wuxian. He continued to watch Lan Wangji, caught up in random thoughts as he pushed his rice around his bowl.

            Hanguang-Jun was even more handsome now than he had been as a kid, but he still didn’t know what to do with his face. It was as emotionless as ever, making him appear just as grim in his mourning clothes as he had when he was a teenager.

            Wei Wuxian’s lips pulled into another smile as he reached for a red-glazed piece of chicken. His thoughts were still far away when he took a bite. A wild burst of flavor followed, and a surprised noise leaked from his throat in appreciation.

            Immediately afterwards, he realized how such a colorful sound could be easily misconstrued in another setting. Snickering to himself, he wondered if he could embarrass Hanguang-Jun with this tactic.

            He took a bigger bite, exaggerating another long sound. “Ah, Hanguang-Jun…so good…”

            Lan Wangji appeared unaffected, but his chopsticks hesitated very slightly as they went for the plate of vegetables.

            Wei Wuxian was beyond thrilled. This might work! Speech is forbidden when eating, and excessive noise isn’t permitted in the Cloud Recesses. This will surely be beyond his endurance!

            With his next bite, Wei Wuxian tipped his head back, releasing an even more titillating sound.

            Lan Wangji exhaled slowly. “Do not be so loud.”

            As Wei Wuxian chewed, he gave Lan Wangji a confused look. Through a mouthful of food, he wondered, “Ah? What do you mean, Hanguang-Jun? What was I doing that was too loud?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flicked up to his. “Your moans.”

            Wei Wuxian choked. He certainly hadn’t expected someone as righteous as Hanguang-Jun to use such a suggestive word so casually.

            He was used to rolling with the punches, though, and effortlessly fell back into character. With a mischievous grin, he leaned across the table. In the breathiest tone he could manage, he whispered, “Why, Hanguang-Jun? Are you afraid someone might overhear and wonder what you’re doing to me in here?”

            Lan Wangji looked away. “If you continue to make such noises, you will be silenced.”

            Wei Wuxian’s brow furrowed. He didn’t doubt Lan Wangji would do it. He wasn’t too keen on the idea of being silenced, but he decided to press his luck. “…Even if you silence me, I’ll still be able to moan.”

            Indifferently, Lan Wangji retorted, “But you will not be able to eat.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed once. Well played, Lan Zhan.

            They had been traveling all day with little time to rest. They hadn’t eaten anything but a light meal at breakfast, and Wei Wuxian’s stomach was twisting with hunger.

            He withdrew with a smile. “Alright, Hanguang-Jun, you win, you win. But I wasn’t being loud on purpose. The dinner you picked really was just too delicious; I couldn’t help it.” When Lan Wangji glanced at him again, Wei Wuxian winked and grinned.

            Lan Wangji shook his head very faintly and went back to eating.

            Retreating was the best course of action for now. It wasn’t worth getting silenced just to try to get a rise out of Hanguang-Jun. Another opportunity would present itself.

            Even though his plans had all failed miserably thus far, Wei Wuxian was an optimistic soul. Unbothered, he began to hum to himself to fill the silence, switching songs every few bites when he got bored.

            At a certain point in the meal, Lan Wangji seemed to freeze. His chopsticks had been reaching for the vegetable plate again when they stopped in midair.

            Wei Wuxian noticed only after a few moments. “What’s this, Hanguang-Jun? Don’t tell me you’re full already; you’ve hardly eaten anything.”

            Lan Wangji was staring at him with an unreadable emotion in his eyes. After a brief hesitation, he mumbled, “Do not play with your food.”

            Wei Wuxian’s rice was divided into even lines, creating a single character. “I’m not! I was writing your name, look, look, look! I couldn’t fit anything more than Lan, but it still looks good, right?”

            Lan Wangji shook his head, muttering, “Wasteful.”

            Wei Wuxian pretended to be hurt. “It took me so long. How can you say this? You’re so cruel…”

            Lan Wangji dropped his gaze without another word.

            Wei Wuxian shrugged and continued humming, switching songs. After a while, Lan Wangji returned to eating.

            Eventually, it got too quiet. Wei Wuxian drained his tea and then gasped, “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun!”

            Lan Wangji sighed very quietly and looked up at him. “What is it this time?”

            Wei Wuxian complained, “My fingers are soo cold! Feel!” He reached across the table and dropped his hand over Lan Wangji’s. When Lan Wangji tried to pull away, Wei Wuxian didn’t let him. “Aren’t they freezing?!”

            Lan Wangji just looked at him. “Sit properly.”

            Wei Wuxian, “But I’m so cold, Hanguang-Jun.”

            “Then drink your tea.”

            Wei Wuxian tightened his fingers against Lan Wangji’s. “I know what would help! Hanguang-Jun, why don’t we hold hands?!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t react, using his other hand to continue eating. Only after he chewed and swallowed did he warn quietly, “If you do not stop, you will be silenced.”

            Wei Wuxian absolutely knew he deserved it, but he still pretended to be shocked. “How can this be?! What did I do wrong, Hanguang-Jun? I’m just cold, and you’re so much warmer.”

            Lan Wangji repeated tepidly, “Sit properly.”

            Wei Wuxian fell back into place. “How cruel…”

            Lan Wangji really had been in a mood all day—ever since this morning. Wei Wuxian didn’t know why. They had slept in the same bed last night, but Wei Wuxian hadn’t even tried anything. He’d gone to sleep and woken up without playing any tricks whatsoever. But something must have happened, because, apart from one moment early in the morning, Lan Wangji had barely looked at him, as though lost in his own thoughts.

            Eventually, Wei Wuxian stopped humming so he could focus on eating. He didn’t finish his rice, but he ate as much chicken as he could manage. When he was almost finished, he grew bored again. “Hanguang-Jun, can you pour me more tea?”

            Lan Wangji set his chopsticks down and poured the tea with neither question nor comment.

            Wei Wuxian, “Wow, you’re so nice, Hanguang-Jun. I was just kidding, but you really did do it for me…Hey! You know what I just realized?!”

            Lan Wangji glanced up at him without a verbal response.

            Wei Wuxian, “We’ve been together all this time, and you’ve never once called me by my name! Did you forget it? Hahaha, it’s okay if you did. It’s Mo~ Xuan~ Yu~. Now you don’t have any excuse not to call me properly!”

            Lan Wangji poured himself more tea as well. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian raised an eyebrow, “Won’t you say my name, Hanguang-Jun?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t look up at him. “If I need to.”

            The edge to his tone made Wei Wuxian hesitate for a split second. Immediately after, he grinned, “Oh, you did know it. I thought you’d forgotten and felt too awkward to ask after we’ve slept together so many times.”

            Lan Wangji ignored the obvious tease and replied neutrally, “I did not forget.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded once. He usually didn’t spend a lot of time analyzing tones or double meanings, but he couldn’t help feeling Lan Wangji had one. “As expected of Hanguang-Jun. I’ve never heard of you forgetting anything! One time I forgot where I put my dizi, but it was in my hand the whole time, hahaha.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply.

            Wei Wuxian took another sip of tea, wishing it was Emperor’s Smile.

            By the time the meal was over, it was close to eight. Wei Wuxian released a long, contented sigh and leaned his arms against the table. Smiling, he mused, “Hanguang-Jun, what about dessert?”

            Lan Wangji ignored him, stood, and collected their bowls. He left the room without another word.

            Wei Wuxian threw himself back against the floor. Just what in the world do I have to do?! He’s impervious to everything! How can this be?!

            Half an hour passed before Lan Wangji returned with things for a bath. He took a couple trips, bringing up buckets of steaming water to dump into the tub.

            On his last trip, Wei Wuxian was pulling his sash belt off as he entered. He tossed it aside with a salacious grin. “Hanguang-Jun, why don’t we save time and water and bathe together? The tub’s plenty big enough for the both of us.”

            Lan Wangji completely ignored him again. “I will be next door.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Wait! But I really—”

            The door slid closed between them.

            With a heavy sigh, Wei Wuxian repeated loudly in his head, How can this be?!

            He knew there was no point in trying the windows. Though they were on the second floor, he could make the jump just fine, but Lan Wangji would catch him, as he always had. Running didn’t do any good, and no one ever believed such a beautiful, dignified person as Hanguang-Jun would do something like abduct someone else, so calling for help never worked, either—a lesson he’d learned the hard way.

            Wei Wuxian fumed as he took a bath, struggling to think of something he hadn’t already tried. He still felt flirting was his best option. He knew how flustered Lan Wangji had gotten as a kid with such things; he was utterly shocked Lan Wangji had so far endured his best efforts, but perhaps if he redoubled his efforts, Lan Wangji would reach a breaking point.

            If nothing else, the hot water helped relax the muscles in Wei Wuxian’s back. After he was clean, he was in a much better mood. He dumped the dirty water, dressed quickly, and went to the room beside him. Knocking on the door like his life depended on it, he called, “Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun, Hanguang-Jun!!!”

            The door slid open unhurriedly. Lan Wangji had also bathed. His hair was still wet, hanging free over his shoulders. His forehead ribbon was gone, too. It was strange how different he looked without it—the same but…different.

            Wei Wuxian blinked slowly, swallowing back his words. He was used to seeing Lan Wangji look so proper; he couldn’t explain why he felt so tongue-tied now.

            Lan Wangji met his gaze expressionlessly. “What is it?”     

            At once, he remembered why he’d come. He shook himself from his bizarre stupor and darted around Lan Wangji. Jumping on the bed, he declared loudly, “I can’t sleep by myself! I’m afraid of being alone; you know this! Don’t make me sleep without you, please, Hanguang-Jun. I won’t be able to, and then I’ll be soo tired tomorrow.”

            It wasn’t the first time he’d acted in such a manner.

            Lan Wangji sighed through his nose, closed the door, and put out the candles. “Fine. Do not misbehave.”

            Wei Wuxian released a small “Hehe,” as he shuffled to his side of the bed.

            Lan Wangji got into bed beside him. “It is nine. Rest.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Can’t we talk a bit first?”

            Lan Wangji, “No.”

            Wei Wuxian fell back with a thump.

            For a long time, the room was unbearably quiet. Wei Wuxian glanced to his right. Lan Wangji’s eyes were closed, but his breaths were still fairly light; he hadn’t fallen asleep yet.

            After only a moment’s thought, Wei Wuxian sat up and crawled over Lan Wangji. Like he had that first night back in the Cloud Recesses, he planted his hands on either side of Lan Wangji’s head and his knees on either side of his waist—only this time, he couldn’t use alcohol as an excuse for his actions.

            Lan Wangji’s light-colored eyes met his at the impossibly close distance. For a moment, they just looked at each other. Lan Wangji parted his lips, but his voice didn’t come for a few long seconds. “I told you not to misbehave.”

            Wei Wuxian let his gaze fall to Lan Wangji’s mouth coquettishly. “Is it misbehaving to want someone?” He leaned down slowly until their lips were a paper’s width apart. He breathed softly, “You knew I was a cutsleeve, and yet you’ve let me sleep with you almost every night. Who’s misbehaving more?”      

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply for a moment before he finally said in a low tone, “Get off.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t listen, continuing softly, “I saw you looking at me this morning when you thought I wasn’t paying attention. You gave me such a long look, Hanguang-Jun. Do I look nice, is that it?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze drifted slowly back and forth between his eyes. Something about it made Wei Wuxian’s knees feel strangely weak. Softly, Lan Wangji repeated, “…Get off.”

            Wei Wuxian murmured, “Not until you answer me. Tell me, Hanguang-Jun. Do I look—” Peripherally, he saw Lan Wangji’s hand move and caught it swiftly. “Ah, please don’t freeze me again. It hurts so much when you do.” He pinned the hand to the bed. He knew it would take precious little effort for Lan Wangji to wrest it away again. Shockingly, he didn’t.

            Wei Wuxian smiled at the small victory and leaned forward until it was difficult to breathe. His heart trembled at the proximity. After another moment, he whispered, “Kiss me.”

            Lan Wangji blinked and swallowed very quietly. When he spoke, his normally indifferent voice was low, almost angry. “Get off.”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes fell to his lips again and rose slowly. He couldn’t explain why he felt so breathless, but it helped adjust his tone. “Don’t you want to kiss me? You looked at me for so long. It’s okay, Hanguang-Jun. Don’t be shy. I don’t mind. I said I like you, remember? Do you—”

            Lan Wangji moved his other hand.

            Wei Wuxian hurriedly caught it, avoiding the paralyzing touch for now. “Stop trying to do that, Hanguang-Jun. You’re so cold; you won’t even tell me if I look nice. Fine, fine, you don’t have to say a word. I’ll get up, I’ll get up…” He lowered his head a third time. “…if you kiss me. One little kiss, and I’ll move. Please?”

            Lan Wangji’s chest seemed to be moving a bit quicker than usual. Something hid behind his eyes, a look Wei Wuxian couldn’t read—something almost angry but not quite. For the fourth time, Lan Wangji repeated, “Get off, or you will be removed.”

            Wei Wuxian searched his eyes. His meaning was more than clear—he’d freeze him and sleep in the other room.

            It was obvious Wei Wuxian had pushed this as far as it could go; if he continued, all he would get was a sore body.

            Smiling through the loss, he murmured, “Alright, Hanguang-Jun…I can wait.”

            He pulled off Lan Wangji and fell beside him once more.

            Lan Wangji stared at the ceiling. He didn’t say a word as he lowered his arms slowly to his sides. Only after Wei Wuxian rolled over to face the wall did he close his eyes, eyebrows pulling together.

            Wei Wuxian pillowed his head with his arm, internally cursing himself. Why does nothing work?! How can this be?! Is this the same Lan Zhan from before or not?! Where did all this resolve come from?! How can he be immune to everything?!

            Wei Wuxian closed his eyes and tried to be content with the fact that Lan Wangji had mercifully not frozen him. Honestly, he knew he deserved it.

            It had been a long day. After such a large meal and a hot bath, Wei Wuxian was exhausted. He fell asleep within minutes.

            However, ever since he had been a kid, Wei Wuxian had had bad dreams whenever he slept on a full stomach. 

            In the middle of the night, Wei Wuxian shouted himself awake, jolting upright in bed. His chest was heaving, and he looked around wildly, unfamiliar with his surroundings.

            The noise woke Lan Wangji, of course, who sat up at once. “What happened? Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian whipped around. “H-Hanguang-Jun?”

            Lan Wangji met his gaze with a trace of concern. “I am here.”

            Wei Wuxian relaxed, pressing a hand to his chest.

            Lan Wangji repeated softly, “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Of course. It was just a dream.”  

            Lan Wangji almost seemed to reach for him before his hand fell to the bed instead. “Do you want to talk about it?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Hanguang-Jun, you really are a good person, you know that? You’ve been angry with me all day, and yet you’re still so nice to me when I have a bad dream.”

            Lan Wangji was quiet for a moment. “I am not angry.”

            Wei Wuxian buried the dream, turning to face Lan Wangji. “Oh? You hardly spoke to me all day. I thought you were ready to kick me out.”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “That will not happen.”

            Wei Wuxian supposed he should have been annoyed at the promise, but for some reason, his heart fluttered instead. He snorted, “Mm, you don’t even know what sort of person I am, Hanguang-Jun. How can you say such a thing so seriously?”

            Lan Wangji treated the question as rhetorical. After a moment, he wondered again, “Do you want to talk about it?”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand. “It was just a silly dream; I’ve already forgotten it.”

            Slowly, Lan Wangji lay back down. “If that is the case, then try to rest. We will be in Qishan tomorrow.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded and rolled onto his side to face Lan Wangji. “Good night, Lan—Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji looked at him, light eyes drifting between his before he turned his head. “Good night.”

            Even after Lan Wangji fell asleep again, Wei Wuxian couldn’t look away. His eyes traced over Hanguang-Jun’s profile, deep in thought.

            Strangely, he felt a little guilty. He really had been relentless today in teasing Lan Wangji, and yet Lan Wangji’s anger—or whatever it was—had disappeared the second he thought Wei Wuxian was upset. He’d even looked concerned! Wei Wuxian had never expected such a scenario.

            It was obvious Lan Wangji knew what Wei Wuxian was doing, that he was trying everything he could to bother him on purpose; for some reason, he didn’t hold this against him. He still did whatever he asked, answered his questions, made sure he was alright. This was just another of the many things Wei Wuxian didn’t understand about the new Lan Zhan.

            His eyelids grew heavy as exhaustion swept over him. He didn’t look away from Lan Wangji even as his eyes closed.

            For some reason, he wasn’t really upset anymore at the idea that he wouldn’t be able to escape. His heart fluttered again at the memory of Lan Wangji’s words, and for the life of him, he couldn’t understand why.

Chapter Text

This time, Wei Wuxian really did feel lightheaded, no exaggeration. His vision shook as much as his fingers, his brain foggy and slow in the wake of the arousal coursing through him. It hung heavily in the air around him, outmatched only by the sandalwood drifting from the incense stand across the room. He had once thought sandalwood was cold, unemotional; now, it threaded itself through his mind, associated so strongly with Lan Wangji that the scent alone could send his heart racing.

            He felt like Lan Wangji was taking him apart with his eyes, devouring every solitary inch of him. The only coherent thought he could form with any trace of elegance was, Why in the hell didn’t we do this sooner?!

            After he’d broken Lan Wangji’s seemingly unconquerable resolve once already, he had grown desperate to do it again.

            It was a matter of fact that Lan Wangji was capable of drawing pleasure from Wei Wuxian in the same graceful, effortless way that he drew sweet harmonies from his guqin. Indeed, his fingers knew precisely where to pluck to produce from Wei Wuxian a different kind of melody entirely, one far louder and far headier.

            Though this was the case, there was something undeniably, unexplainably erotic about telling Lan Wangji he couldn’t touch him. Wei Wuxian loved it when Lan Wangji was in control, loved the way he lavished him with attention, the way he sounded and breathed and felt—but sometimes he craved the rush of power himself, craved the thrill of controlling what Lan Wangji did and when he did it.

            Tonight was one of those nights.

            He was straddling Lan Wangji’s waist, leaning back against his thighs, which were tensed under him. Sweat dripped from them both, rolling of their skin as ceaselessly as the breathy moans leaking from Wei Wuxian’s throat. His hips gyrated gently as he stroked himself at as slow and even a rhythm as he could manage, given the circumstances.

            Lan Wangji’s hands were in fists at his sides, his long, slender fingers clutching the blanket instead of Wei Wuxian’s waist. That had been Wei Wuxian’s only rule: Look but don’t touch. Not until I tell you to…if I tell you to.

            Lan Wangji’s vision felt unsteady as he drank in the view over him. Wei Wuxian really was unreasonably, unfairly beautiful. He always swung wildly between being unbearably cute during the day to breathtakingly gorgeous at night, proving himself a temptation that tortured Lan Wangji more often than not.

            His raven-black hair was tied back in his usual, endearing style, but the fluttering red ribbon that held it up had fallen considerably throughout the course of the evening. As a result, strands clung to the sides of his face and shoulders, caught against the sweat beading his skin.

            The long ends of his hair brushed against his waist softly as his head tipped back. The motion exposed his neck and all the marks Lan Wangji had left there a couple hours ago, before they had begun in earnest. A slow flush had risen across his cheeks and spread down to his heaving chest where his nipples were hardened and neglected. His abdomen was taut, soft muscles straining as his hips began to thrust more adamantly into the circle his hand made. His length was dark and leaking, a stark contrast to his pale, shaking fingers.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze hazily flicked up in time to see Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows draw together with a moan. His heart skipped a beat before it returned to its frantic rhythm. His knuckles turned even whiter in the blankets as his breath shuddered out of him.

            People often thought Lan Wangji’s resolve was unassailable, and usually they would be correct, but for one notable weakness.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows grew even closer. His lips were red and slick from their kisses earlier. He parted them now, his other hand reaching back to steady himself on Lan Wangji’s thigh. His hips tilted into his hand more fervently, increasing their thrusts as he got closer.

            Wei Wuxian’s voice wavered as he whined, “Ah…f-feels so good, Lan Zhan…” Even in the midst of his own pleasure, he had the mind to grin and tease, “Not as good as you, though…”

            Hearing the shaky way Lan Wangji exhaled, Wei Wuxian finally managed to pry his eyes open. The sight that greeted him was more than gratifying. Lan Wangji’s gaze was heavily lidded, pupils so dilated that his light irises seemed to be mere slivers. His earlobes were flushed a pinkish crimson, and his knuckles were impossibly pale against the blankets. His forehead ribbon lay discarded beside him; Wei Wuxian had started this whole thing by jokingly warning that he would tie Lan Wangji up if he broke the no-touching rule.

            But of course, he wouldn’t break it, not if Wei Wuxian was the one who had given it.

            Though the look in Lan Wangji’s eyes verged on lusting, there was an obvious, undeniable streak of tender affection that only made Wei Wuxian’s heart hammer faster.

            A familiar feeling coiled low in his stomach, threatening to burst at any second. With a broken whimper, Wei Wuxian pulled his hand off his length. He dropped his wet fingers to Lan Wangji’s stomach to steady himself. For a moment, his hips continued to thrust weakly into the air, seeking friction that wasn’t there.

            Lan Wangji breathed a soft groan of his name. His fingers inched closer, seeming desperate to break the rule.

            The moan that slipped from Wei Wuxian in response dripped with arousal to the point that it sounded downright filthy—but that only turned both of them on more.            

            Wei Wuxian’s vision zeroed in on where Lan Wangji’s length rested against his own stomach, beads of fluid pearling at the tip. Wei Wuxian licked his lips unconsciously with a soft whine. He avoided the temptation, leaning over to kiss Lan Wangji instead.

            Lan Wangji released a quiet sound, meeting it with breathtaking fervency. His tongue explored Wei Wuxian’s mouth, pulling moans from him mercilessly without a single extra touch.

            Wei Wuxian was shaking over him, struggling to maintain control over the situation. He felt his resolve weaken briefly—the temptation to tell Lan Wangji to just fuck him already was strong—but he managed to hold back. He wasn’t done playing just yet.

            Wei Wuxian’s fingers trailed down Lan Wangji’s chest to his abdomen. It verged on cruel to tease Lan Wangji like this, but something about it made Wei Wuxian feel even heavier with desire. Riling Lan Wangji up was just too good. They had already been doing this for two hours, two hours that Lan Wangji had been achingly hard and completely untouched. Wei Wuxian’s mind reeled when he thought of how good it would feel when he finally did touch him.

            When Wei Wuxian felt himself safely retreat from the edge, he pulled from the kiss. A thin string of saliva followed him as he dove for Lan Wangji’s neck, biting it with a soft grin. Lan Wangji gave a quiet groan, likely aching to return the favor, but Wei Wuxian sat up before he could.

            Wei Wuxian smiled down at him, gaze hazy in its adoration. “Want you to keep watching me, Lan Zhan. Being so good for me.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips were still parted, a shade darker than usual from the kiss. His breath fell unevenly as his eyes traveled across Wei Wuxian’s body again.

            A thrill rushed through Wei Wuxian. He felt almost overwhelmed by it all.

            Biting his lip, he started the whole process over. His hands roamed across his body, teasing and pinching. One lowered to the inside of his thigh, rubbing the skin tenderly, while the other skirted along his collarbones and down his sternum.

            In a thick voice, he mumbled, “Lan Zhan…can I tell you something I’ve never told you before?”

            Lan Wangji nodded loosely, gaze following the trail of his hands.

            Wei Wuxian’s fingers fluttered over a nipple, and he jolted. His lips parted with a gasp, eyelids falling shut before he managed to pry them open again. He wanted to see Lan Wangji’s reaction to his confession.

            When he spoke again, his tone had turned breathy. “After the hunt at Phoenix Mountain…after you kissed me…” He grinned when he saw Lan Wangji’s expression grow almost sheepish, even after everything. “That night…I dreamt of you.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed up to his, a bit wide with his surprise.

            Wei Wuxian nodded slowly. “Not just any dream. After that night, I felt a bit ashamed when I saw you again. But I never forgot it, no matter how hard I tried.

            “Maybe somewhere deep…deep down, I knew it was you who had kissed me that day. Maybe I recognized the sound of your breath, the weight of your touch…the incense on your clothes…Whatever it was, it drifted into my dreams. Even after I woke up…” He bit his lip, dragging it through his teeth slowly. “I knew it was wrong, Lan Zhan…but I couldn’t stop thinking about it, about you, about what you were doing to me.”

            Lan Wangji was breathing hard, clearing affected by the notion. His length gave a visible pulse against his stomach.

            Wei Wuxian took himself in hand again, gasping softly at the touch. After so many times edging himself, combined with the general headiness of the situation, he felt especially sensitive. For a moment, he lost track of his words, lost in the sensation of Lan Wangji’s gaze and his own hand. He entered into a slow, teasing rhythm that felt painfully inadequate. When he was alone, he never made such a show of doing this, and he didn’t really like dragging it out, but having Lan Wangji watch him did things to him. His thumb ran across his tip, distributing the fluid there to ease his movements once more.

            It took him a while to regain a bit of clarity. When he did, he continued as evenly as he could. “Haa…mm…after…after I woke up, Lan Zhan…I could still feel you against me, kissing, stroking, grinding…At the time I knew it was so, so wrong, confusing even, to want the ascetic Hanguang-Jun…but I ached for you that night, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips parted with his breaths. His eyes fell closed, eyebrows pulling together as he whispered a longing rendition of Wei Wuxian’s name.

            Wei Wuxian shook with need as he pressed on, “Ah…L-Lan Zhan…mm…do you want to know what my dream was about? Even back then, my brain knew what I didn’t, knew how much I wanted you…how much you wanted me. I still remember the dream today…came so hard that night I blacked out…and even back then, it was your name I cried out—”

            Lan Wangji unexpectedly surged up. He made a line for Wei Wuxian’s mouth, stopping a mere centimeter away when he remembered the rule. His nose brushed against Wei Wuxian’s as he held back, panting. He groaned the neediest “Wei Ying” that he’d ever given.

            Wei Wuxian ran his tongue against Lan Wangji’s upper lip, beyond impressed with Lan Wangji’s endurance. “I dreamed you walked in on me while I was like this, saw me touching myself. Dreamed you wanted me so badly that you…” He chuckled breathlessly, keeping that a secret for a moment longer. “Mm, tell me, Lan Zhan. If you’d really walked in on me while I was touching myself back then…what would you have done? Now that I know you’ve always wanted me…I’m curious.”

            Lan Wangji swallowed audibly, a crease forming between his brows. His hands seemed to shake faintly in the blankets, his nose brushing Wei Wuxian’s again. “Wei…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian took his hand off himself to run his wet fingers down Lan Wangji’s abdomen. He brushed them against Lan Wangji’s length, groaning at the way Lan Wangji tensed and moaned in response. Another longing whisper of his name shook through Lan Wangji, but Wei Wuxian wasn’t finished yet. “Would you have tied me up and fucked me? Would you have taken me in your mouth? Would you have grinded against me until we both came, like you did in my dream? Or…would you have watched me finish, maybe touched yourself…ngh…to the-the memory of me…” That image was a bit too powerful, making Wei Wuxian shudder. He hadn’t yet seen Lan Wangji do that, wasn’t even entirely sure that he did; it had become something of a secret fantasy lately, infecting even his dreams.

            Lan Wangji gave a small sound, pressing his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s. His breath beat against Wei Wuxian’s skin, echoing his need as he silently pleaded for a kiss.

            A shaky whine rattled out of Wei Wuxian. His length pulsed, aching for attention that he denied it for now. Still, stubbornly, his hips thrust into the air in search.

            Lan Wangji grunted softly at the way Wei Wuxian sounded and looked and felt—it was all too much. His fingers twitched, desperate to give Wei Wuxian the relief he sought.

            Wei Wuxian was too far gone; everything in him felt tensed and ready. His hands shook against Lan Wangji’s trembling stomach, and his thighs burned from the position. When he was worked up like this, his mouth had a tendency to ramble. “L-Lan Zhan…Lan Zhan…Lan Er-Gege, Hanguang-Jun…can I ask you something? Please, please, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji nodded against him breathlessly.

            Something almost like nervousness or excitement—Wei Wuxian didn’t know anymore—fluttered through his stomach. He swallowed loudly, lips parting. He licked them, choosing his words slowly. “Back then, did you ever…to the thought of me?”

            He felt the way Lan Wangji’s eyebrows pulled together. For a moment, he thought he wasn’t going to answer, but then, almost imperceptibly, he nodded again.

            Wei Wuxian’s mind blanked.

            After a split second, he moaned, gripping Lan Wangji’s shoulders too hard as his length twitched. His hips grinded into the air as his expression crumpled.

            Logically, he knew this was perhaps a bit of an overreaction, but just the mere thought and its accompanying imagery was too much to bear. Why does that make me feel so fucking hot? Most people do it, but…but Lan Zhan was raised to be upright and righteous; the Lan Sect certainly isn’t the place for rambunctious young adults, and Lan Wangji was always the best of them—controlled, disciplined, principled, austere…The thought of him, in the depths of the night, unable to resist those feelings, those fantasies…Fuck, I can’t, I can’t, I can’t…

            A low, melodic variation of Lan Wangji’s name leaked from his throat. With frantic movements, he finally closed the distance between them.

            Lan Wangji moaned into the kiss louder than he usually did—which still wasn’t very loud, especially not compared with Wei Wuxian’s responding sound.

            Wei Wuxian broke away to urgently pant, “Touch me, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji reacted at once. He surged forward, resuming the kiss with numbing strength. He took Wei Wuxian’s waist and pulled him close. Their lengths slid together, eliciting broken moans from both of them.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers roamed across Wei Wuxian’s body, pinching at his waist before sweeping across a nipple, drifting along his collarbones before slipping down his back, stroking his length before pressing against the low ring of muscles.

            He finally rolled them over, moaning quietly. Their lengths grinded together as he hitched one of Wei Wuxian’s thighs high over his waist.

            Wei Wuxian threw his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck. He broke from the kiss with a whine a moment later when Lan Wangji entered him. He rolled his hips up in an effort to start their rhythm, but Lan Wangji remained still, savoring the feeling. One of his hands clasped Wei Wuxian’s waist tightly. His hips shifted ever so slightly as he panted Wei Wuxian’s name weakly.

            Wei Wuxian mouthed at his neck with a groan. He trembled as he asked, “Wh-when did you…? More than once?”

            Lan Wangji dropped his head to his shoulder. He hesitated, hand tightening on Wei Wuxian’s waist, and then, very softly, he nodded.

            Wei Wuxian arched into him. His length gave another violent pulse against his own stomach. A low, long moan leaked from between his teeth, his voice wavering. “Fuck, Lan-Lan Zhan…th-that’s so…ngh—wh-what did you think about?”

            Lan Wangji picked his head up. His ears were tinged red, but his gaze met Wei Wuxian’s with tender affection. He caught his cheek with one hand, thumb sweeping across his skin. Faintly, he whispered, “This,” and then he kissed him languidly.

            Tears flooded Wei Wuxian’s eyes and ran down his temples. The reaction was so sudden, springing from somewhere so deep in his chest, that it took him a moment to understand why he was crying.

            It was because he knew what Lan Wangji meant. By this, he didn’t mean anything so simple as sex. What he’d longed for all those years, beyond merely flesh, was more abstractly this—waking up entangled with Wei Wuxian, listening to his laugh, watching him bounce around animatedly, hearing Lan Zhan curl off his tongue with the warm inflection he alone possessed; their fingers interlacing, their hearts beating in unison, their movements synchronizing as they whispered each other’s names in the dark—the love they shared, the bond that bound them together, the one that made every touch, every breath, every word mean more.

            The kiss reflected those emotions, caused them to brim over until Wei Wuxian couldn’t breathe. He broke away with a gasp, pressing his forehead to Lan Wangji’s.

            It was hardly the first time he’d had this same exact reverie, but he really couldn’t help the way Lan Wangji’s actions and words overwhelmed him time and time again. He’d never imagined he would be loved, revered, worshipped like this by anyone; he had never seen a relationship like this before, had never even known what love really was before Lan Wangji. He had always thought it was a stupid, cliché word, something people overused and undersold.

            But love was the way Lan Wangji brought him his favorite dinners every night, no matter how spicy they were for himself. Love was the way he smiled when Wei Wuxian rambled about even the most mundane things. Love was the way Lan Wangji had sacrificed so much, given so much to try to keep Wei Wuxian safe, never once expecting anything in return, not even recognition.

            Wei Wuxian’s tears grew faster to the ridiculous point that even his nose ran. “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji heard the weight of his tone and pulled back to look at him. He brushed his tears away with tender touches, his own eyes a bit red. “Wei Ying…every day.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded furiously, wrapping his legs around Lan Wangji’s waist. He hugged him, lost in the emotion. “Every day, Lan Zhan, love you so much…”

            Lan Wangji kissed his temple and neck, holding him just as tight.

            After a moment, Wei Wuxian breathed in sharply through his nose, wiping his eyes. With a weak chuckle, he mused, “Now, fuck me properly so I can cry about something else.”

            Lan Wangji gave a soft laugh and brought him to his lips in another ardent kiss. But even when he began to move, the emotion continued to bleed from Wei Wuxian’s heart, filling his chest. His tears never stopped, only growing faster as their fingers intertwined. He clung to Lan Wangji’s shoulder with his other arm, squeezing his eyes shut against his neck.

            A thick, numbing gratitude swept through him; he didn’t even know who or what he should be thankful to, but he felt he owed something for giving him this.

            Beyond those weighted feelings, though, he couldn’t help finding his own reaction a bit funny. He’d experienced so much through two lifetimes—pain had seldom made him cry, and even loss had manifested itself as rage in most cases. But happiness turned him into a sobbing mess—what was all that about?

            Wei Wuxian whimpered, “Lan Zhan, you’ve turned me into a sap.”

            Lan Wangji’s laugh came softly through his nose. His lips brushed against Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “Then we are even.”

            The unexpected reply made Wei Wuxian tip his head back with a giddy laugh. Something like delight flitted through his chest. He rolled his hips more fervently with Lan Wangji’s, meeting each thrust with blinding urgency. As his breaths hitched, he pressed his forehead to Lan Wangji’s again, looking deep into his light eyes. “Should’ve been like this all along.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes fell closed. He cupped his cheek, offering a kiss that brimmed tenderly with a numbing combination of emotion and heat.

            When they broke apart, Wei Wuxian whimpered and added, “I meant what I said before…let’s stay like this forever.”

            Lan Wangji gazed at him affectionately. “Mark your words.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “Is that supposed to be a threat? Do your worst, Hanguang-Jun.”

            When they kissed again, Wei Wuxian could feel the curve of Lan Wangji’s smile. Such a simple gesture, but it always sent his heart racing.

Chapter Text

Then

Wen Qing cursed under her breath. Using her wrist, she swept the hair away from her eyes. The exasperated gesture earned her a thin smear dirt over her eyebrow, but she didn’t notice.

            At the moment, she was too busy grumbling to herself. “…Goes into town for radish seeds and brings back potatoes…I told him they were too hard to maintain, and now here we are. But does he ever want to listen to me? No, of course not. Why should the Yiling Laozu have to listen to what anyone else has to say?”

            Wen Ning was kneeling in the dirt beside her. He was working just as hard as her, but the labor was far less arduous to him. While his sister was breathless, flushed, and sweaty, he seemed no more wearied than if he were sitting still. He could neither sweat nor blush, and he had no need to breathe.

            As he glanced up at his older sister, he really felt a sense of gratitude. Though he resembled a corpse in appearance, he still felt things deeply. He couldn’t cry, but he could feel overwhelming grief; he couldn’t smile, but he could feel boundless joy.

            Now, he couldn’t help being awed by his sister. She had grown up in far different circumstances. He had always known how hardworking she was—she hadn’t become the best medic in the cultivation world for nothing—but it was a different sort of labor that consumed her now.

            Neither one of them had been particularly athletic in life. His sister had chosen a path to exercise her mind, and he had chosen a similar path, trying to humbly follow in his sister’s footsteps. So, though the farm work wasn’t particularly grueling, his sister was more prone to sore muscles and strained limbs.

            Still, she never once had complained about the work itself. And he knew now that, though she seemed annoyed, her gratitude far outweighed her irritation with Wei Wuxian.

            Despite this knowledge, he reminded her quietly, “Don’t be angry, Jiejie.”

            Wen Qing threw another dead plant into the wheelbarrow a foot away. “I’m not!”

            Wen Ning’s lips twitched as he glanced up at his sister again. His dead eyes somehow looked amused. “You sound angry.”

            Huffing, Wen Qing tore her rake through the ground to soften the dirt. “Well, I’m not. I’m frustrated. This makes the fifth plant this week that has died. I told him potatoes wouldn’t grow here; they’re easy enough to get started but too hard to look after. But he wanted to pout and whine and act all charming. I don’t care how boring radishes are! At least they’d fill our stomachs or sell in town so we can buy the supplies to make clothes for A-Yuan. Autumn is almost over, and we have little enough food from the summer harvest as it is.”

            Wen Ning dug a hole swiftly without needing a tool. Though his pair of hands could be quite terrifying in the right circumstances, he held the new seed potato as delicately as he might hold a baby. “I think Wei Gongzi takes comfort in meals. He wants the food we eat to be a source of that comfort.”

            That seemed to annoy Wen Qing even more. “When one can afford that luxury, sure. But we don’t even always have a meal every day. The fact is, this mountain isn’t meant to grow anything; it’s hard enough to find clean water for us drink here, let alone to water finicky plants.”

            Wen Ning’s expression was blank, but his mind was turning over her tone. He knew she obviously wasn’t mad at Wei Wuxian, though she certainly made it seem like that more often than not. She was worried—for him, her brother, for her family, for every single person on Luanzang Hill. And when she got worried, it manifested itself as anger.

            Wen Qing sighed heavily and watered the new seed. “If this one wilts, too, I’m sending him back down the mountain for radish seeds. We only have a small window of time to plant things that will actually grow. I’ve been too lenient on him so far, letting him get away with such things because I felt bad. First, the lotus plant experiment, and now the failing crops. If a plant can’t grow somewhere, it can’t grow there. Being stubborn won’t magically fix that. Do you know what potatoes need to grow, A-Ning?”

            Wen Ning shook his head, looking up at her with wide eyes. When he looked at her in such a way, it reminded her of the way he used to be.

            She replied, “Sun. They need lots of sun, and there is no sun on this mountain. It’s blocked behind all this damn resentment and all these clouds.”

            Wen Ning nodded thoughtfully. He took up the wheelbarrow and pushed it over to the next plant that had died.

            Wen Qing set to work uprooting it. It would have been quicker for Wen Ning, but she used such physical labor to vent the feelings bottled up in her chest. “Have you seen him today?”

            Wen Ning shook his head. “No.”

            Wen Qing pursed her lips together. “Did he eat this morning?”

            Wen Ning, “Mm! Everything you prepared for him.”

            That was relieving to hear, but Wen Qing muttered like she didn’t care, “Good. At least he won’t starve to death in that damn cave.”

            As she repeated the process of pulling the dead plant from the ground, Wen Ning happened to glance up. When his eyes landed on an approaching figure, he jumped to his feet. Such a fast movement sprayed his sister with dirt.

            Wen Qing scowled. “A-Ning, what are you—” She followed his gaze to the path leading down the mountain. Her eyebrows drew together in surprise.

            There were only three people Wei Wuxian had ordered the patrolling corpses to let through without fuss—as a precaution, though, not because anyone expected Lan Wangji, Jiang Cheng, or Jiang Yanli to ever go there.  

            When Wen Qing got over her shock, she called with an indifferent tone, “Hanguang-Jun. I hadn’t expected to see you here again.”

            Lan Wangji really was dressed too immaculately for such a dirty setting, but the dust on the path didn’t even seem to stick to the hems of his white robes. One hand held the hilt of his sword while the other carried a massive sack. Though it was bulging with many items, he didn’t seem burdened by its weight.

            When he heard her call, he glanced over and stopped outside the potato field. Expressionlessly, he set the sack down and saluted. “Wen Guniang.”

            She was rather taken aback by the respect of such a salute. She wasn’t entirely sure it was appropriate anymore, given the circumstances. Then again, Hanguang-Jun was revered throughout the cultivation world for his flawless manners.

            Wen Qing saluted him in return. “Hanguang-Jun. Not to be rude, but what are you doing here?”

            Lan Wangji replied neutrally, “Night-hunting.”

            Wen Qing gestured to the sack with her chin, maintaining eye contact. “This is…?”

            Lan Wangji, “A few things I was given but do not need.”

            With nothing else to go on, Wen Qing walked closer and crouched by the sack. As soon as she opened it, she froze.

            There were indeed more than just a few things inside. Several bags of seeds rested at the bottom—seeds for vegetables that weren’t temperamental, required little water, and could be grown even in winter. Piled over them and carefully wrapped to keep them clean were several dozen rolls of fresh bread, likely from the nearby town, as they were still warm. Finally, there were many spices for cooking, but the one that caught and held Wen Qing’s attention was a small packet of chili powder.

            Wen Qing had let Wei Wuxian cook only once before, but once was enough to know how much he favored such spices.

            Her eyes flicked up. “Thank you, Hanguang-Jun. This is…” She struggled to finish the sentence. Anything she came up with sounded over-the-top or too insincere. In reality, these items were lifesaving, but such weighty terms were indeed difficult to say.

            She didn’t miss the way Lan Wangji’s gaze had drifted over the encampment while she inspected the items, as though searching for someone. He looked back at her when she spoke and silently nodded.

            Wen Qing pulled the sack closed. “A-Ning, take this to the kitchen. Wait for me there.”

            Wen Ning hurried to pick it up and jog away.

            Wen Qing rested her rake face-down on the ground. “Wei Wuxian is working inside the cave. I’ll take you to him.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head. “There is no need if he is busy.”

            Wen Qing wouldn’t take no for an answer. “It would be rude to come all this way and not bother to see him, don’t you think? How would I even explain that to him? If nothing else, Hanguang-Jun, I think it would hurt his feelings.”

            Lan Wangji parted his lips to reply but none came. He closed his mouth and nodded again.

            Wen Qing ushered him forward. “This way, then.”

            Lan Wangji followed her. The path led around the edge of the encampment and further up the mountain. At the end of it, the mouth of the Demon-Slaughtering Cave gaped, as though ready to swallow them whole.

            Neither Lan Wangji nor Wen Qing found it ominous, though. It was hard to find such things creepy when the entire mountain seemed to throb with a dark, resentful energy. Besides, both knew the man within very well; regardless of its appearance, how could the dwelling of such a bright soul be menacing?

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was fixed on the cave as they walked. His expression was blank. “How…”

            Wen Qing glanced at him. She hadn’t really been around Hanguang-Jun much, but she knew of him well enough to know that he was usually sure-footed. However, remembering the way he’d almost embraced Wei Wuxian the day Wen Ning had gone on a rampage, she supposed it wasn’t all that surprising.

            She asked in an indifferent tone of her own, “How what?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t hesitate again. “How is he?”

            Wen Qing thought he was referring to that day, too. Frowning, she said, “He’s fine, of course. A-Ning didn’t do much damage. It only took a couple days for his wound to get better.”

            When Lan Wangji didn’t respond, she realized she’d misunderstood.

            She corrected, “Ah, you mean…” She shrugged, folding her arms over her chest. For a moment, she was torn over how to reply, but he and Wei Wuxian were obviously close. She decided to be honest. “It’s been hard on him, despite what he pretends. He misses his family. He’s been locked up inside this cave for over three months now. I can’t get him to come out for anything. We all know he’s working, so we leave him alone, but…” She shrugged again.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to the path.

            After a moment, he asked quietly, “Has there been no word from them today?”

            By ‘them,’ she assumed he meant Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli.

            She was still a bit confused, though. “Today? No, not that I know of. Why, has something happened outside today?” For a moment, she wondered if his sister had given birth, but it was a few weeks early for that.

            Lan Wangji shook his head in answer but didn’t offer a further explanation.

            With anyone else, Wen Qing might have demanded one, but such methods would never work against Hanguang-Jun. If he didn’t want to talk about something, he wouldn’t.

            When they reached the mouth of the cave, she didn’t bother trying to make their entrance quiet. “Wei Wuxian! Wei Wuxian! Where are you? What’s this mess? It’s gotten even worse since last time!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze drifted slowly across the many talismans, compasses, and unnamable objects that lay scattered across the cave floor. Countless flags and sheets of paper were discarded in the same manner, each packed with characters and scribbled figures. The handwriting was messy but uniquely Wei Wuxian’s. Even from their short time together in the Library Pavilion years prior, Lan Wangji would recognize such writing anywhere.

            Intermixed with the cultivational items were a few toys—butterflies and crudely carved wooden swords. On some sheets of paper were messy drawings of a dark-clothed figure and a little boy.

            Wen Qing didn’t miss the careful way Hanguang-Jun walked through the place, wary of stepping on something. She was far less considerate, openly kicking things out of the way. “Apologies, Hanguang-Jun. I’d excuse him by saying he doesn’t get many guests, but the truth is, he’s just lazy and careless.”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “It is fine.”

            Wen Qing called out again, “Wei Wuxian! I know you’re busy, but you can be pulled away for an hour. Wei Wuxian! Answer me when I call for you. Wei—” She stopped suddenly when she saw him. Her lips twitched even as she gave a heavy sigh.

            Wei Wuxian was fast asleep on the floor, of all places. He had clearly been sitting where he now lay, working. There were many loose papers and objects surrounding him in a circle. Each paper contained a piece of a diagram for some new contraption he was trying to make. Such a sight alone was enough to make her sigh. His last experiment had made her think the cave was collapsing in on itself when it unexpectedly imploded.

            His work had been forgotten for the time being, though. He lay with one arm under his head, rolled onto his side. Resting against his other arm and wrapped up tight in his long robes was A-Yuan, seemingly swallowed up by the dark clothes keeping him warm. The toddler was tucked against Wei Wuxian’s chest. Like the child, Wei Wuxian looked particularly soft. The dark aura that surrounded him lately had faded, replaced with a faint smile that persisted even in sleep.

            Lan Wangji’s expression seemed to falter briefly. In a hushed tone, he said, “We should not disturb them.”

            Wen Qing disagreed—for several reasons.

            First, Wei Wuxian had been locked up inside this cave for far too long already. His skin was particularly pale, almost sallow from the lack of sunlight. The underside of his eyes looked a bit dark from staying up too late and sleeping too little, and his waist was thinner than ever under his flowing outer robe. She wasn’t capable of dragging him out into the sun, but Hanguang-Jun might be.

            Second, she had no idea how long they had been asleep. If she thought about it, she hadn’t seen A-Yuan for several hours. If they had been asleep that whole time, the toddler wouldn’t be able to sleep come bedtime.

            Third, and most importantly, she didn’t want to see the look on Wei Wuxian’s face if he learned someone from his past had arrived and left while he was asleep.

            Wen Qing stepped closer, crossing her arms. “Wei Wuxian!”

            The shout startled both man and toddler awake. Wei Wuxian gasped, brow furrowing as he groaned. Without opening his eyes, he complained, “You’re so scary…”

            A-Yuan gave a huge yawn, wiping his eyes with the back of one tiny hand. “Xian-Gege…?”

            Wei Wuxian patted the boy’s face clumsily. “Shh, it’s not a monster. She won’t hurt you.”

            Wen Qing agreed, “Him, no. But you?”

            Wei Wuxian shuddered and repeated, “How scary…Aren’t medics morally opposed to harming people?”

            Wen Qing, “Last time I checked, I was a farmer, not a medic.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You’re both. And farmers shouldn’t hurt people, either.”

            Wen Qing finally snorted. She covered the sound by kicking Wei Wuxian’s leg. “Why are you sleeping on the floor?!”

            Wei Wuxian gasped, “Aiyo! Why are you so mean?”

            Wen Qing, “It’s fine if you want to hurt your own back, but A-Yuan is still a child.”

            Wei Wuxian argued, “He tackled me! I’m the victim here. I was minding my own business, taking notes, when he suddenly forced me to the ground!”

            A-Yuan giggled and rolled over into Wei Wuxian, as though he found the memory hilarious. Neither had opened their eyes yet, both still too drowsy.

            Wen Qing shook her head. “Fine. But it’s time to get up. Come on, both of you!”

            Wei Wuxian threw an arm over his head when she raised her voice. “So loud…the cave echoes, you know?”

            Wen Qing, “Do you want me to get louder? I already told you to get up. You have a guest.”

            Wei Wuxian mused, “A guest? Since when do we have—” His eyes opened blearily, and he froze.

            The one beside Wei Qing certainly struck a breathtaking, godly figure, contrasting so starkly with their homely surroundings that Wei Wuxian couldn’t be sure he was really awake.

            He grinned tiredly, rolling onto his back as he looked up at him. “Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji was looking at him almost expressionlessly, but for something hidden deep within his eyes. In a quiet voice, he replied, “Wei Ying.”

            Wen Qing wasn’t a maiden prone to girlish bouts of fancy or blushing, but even she heard the tender note in his usually cold tone.

            Wei Wuxian smiled, blinking slowly as he stared. “Mm, am I dreaming, or has Hanguang-Jun come to visit me?”

            Wen Qing couldn’t take much more of this. She barked, “Ugh, would you get up already?! Is this any way to greet a guest? You’re so shameless, even I feel embarrassed for you. A-Yuan, come on. Wake up. No, no, don’t go back to sleep. Come on, let’s go find Popo, alright? A-Yuan…”

            The toddler had indeed nodded off again, but at Wen Qing’s insistence, he heavily pulled himself to his feet. He rubbed his eyes, stumbling a little. When he looked up and saw the radiant figure beside her, he gasped and surged forward. “It’s you!!! You came back!!!” He immediately wrapped himself around Hanguang-Jun’s leg, squeezing it for dear life.

            Lan Wangji was expressionless as he looked down, but his fingers were gentle when he brushed the boy’s hair back. “Here.” He reached into his qiankun sleeve and produced a small pellet drum. “For you.”

            The toddler received it with wide eyes. “Th-thank you, thank you, Rich Gege!!!”

            Wei Wuxian burst out laughing. He stood, almost reaching Lan Wangji’s height as he dusted off his robes. “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, look at you! Don’t tell me you came all this way from Gusu just to give him another toy? Did you really miss him so much?”

            Lan Wangji met his teasing gaze without reply.

            Wei Wuxian pulled his hair free to redo it, tying some of it back swiftly. “Did you know, Lan Zhan, he hasn’t stopped talking about you since you left. It’s always Rich Gege gave me this and Rich Gege told me this. Do you know what he calls me?! Poor Gege! Ugh! How unbearable!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched very faintly.

            Wen Qing glanced between them. Wei Wuxian’s eyes were brighter than they had been in months—brighter than she’d ever seen them, now that she thought about it.

            A-Yuan was too busy twirling the toy between his hands to hear what Wei Wuxian had said about him. After a few seconds, the soft beats echoing through the cave stopped, and he hung himself on Lan Wangji’s leg again. “Will you stay for dinner this time?! Xian-Gege said he would cook tonight!”

            Wen Qing burst with a dry laugh.

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin. “So delighted that you can’t contain your excitement?”

            Wen Qing corrected, “So amused that you think you’d be allowed within ten feet of the kitchen after last time.”

            Wei Wuxian pouted, “See how she treats me, Lan Zhan? You’d eat my food, wouldn’t you?”

            Wen Qing rolled her eyes. “Come on, A-Yuan. Let’s give them some time to talk. Let’s go show your new toy to Popo.”

            The toddler clutched Lan Wangji’s leg tighter. Etched across his face was a big, fat no.

            Wen Qing gave him a firm look. “A-Yuan—”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “It is fine. He can stay.”

            Wen Qing waved a hand. “Fine. I’ll be in the kitchen.” With that, she turned and left.

            Wei Wuxian looked down at the toddler, grinning. “A-Yuan, you’ll cut off his circulation with such a grip! Come, come, come.” When A-Yuan didn’t let go on his own, Wei Wuxian stooped over and picked him up. A-Yuan smiled happily at Lan Wangji, almost as tall as him in Wei Wuxian’s arms.

           Lan Wangji’s gaze seemed to soften. He reached for the boy’s head briefly again.

            A-Yuan’s grin was outmatched only by Wei Wuxian’s. With a rare streak of sincerity, he mused, “It’s good to see you, Lan Zhan…Hmm, let’s head outside, shall we? I’ve just realized how dark it is in here. Your robes are so bright, you’re practically your own moon, hahaha.”

            Lan Wangji stepped aside to let him lead the way.

            As he walked, Wei Wuxian gave a soft groan, stretching his back. “Ah, she wasn’t wrong about the floor. A-Yuan, are you sore, too?”

           The toddler was entranced with his new toy, spinning it quickly. After a moment, he shook his head in response.

            Wei Wuxian, “Ah? How can this be? …Did you use me as a pillow?”

            A-Yuan giggled with a nod. “Xian-Gege is comfy.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Hmph. I’m using you as a pillow next time. How does that sound?”

            Another laugh echoed through the cave. “You’re too heavy. I’d die!”

            Wei Wuxian mimed a wound to his heart. “Ah! A-Yuan, how can you say such hurtful things?”

            Other than a quiet giggle, A-Yuan didn’t reply, too caught up playing.

            The clack of the drum outweighed their voices, and soon the conversation died down.

            Wei Wuxian caught sight of Lan Wangji as they walked together. I wonder what brought him here today. It’s a bit shameless if I think it’s for me…I had thought last time would be our last meeting for a long time. It’s only been seven months, and he’s come back…Today of all days…

            After a moment, he began to think random thoughts. That old saying really does make sense: “A sight for sore eyes.” I didn’t realize how much I’d missed his expressionless face and cold, light eyes. He looks even more beautiful than the last time we met…which is odd. He can’t have changed much since then. Did I really just miss him so much? Ugh…how silly. Hm, he looks even more serious than last time, though, a bit more regal, too. Hmph…it was hard enough to get him to laugh before. Now it might even be impossible! Ah well…not smiling doesn’t really diminish his beauty too much…

            He was a bit caught up in his own thoughts, so he didn’t brace himself for the sunlight. As soon as he stepped out, the light stabbed into his retinas. He gasped and shielded his eyes with his free hand. Instinctively, he backed into the shade of the cave again. The step made him collide with Hanguang-Jun.

            Lan Wangji steadied him with a hand on his waist, which disappeared just as fast. “Wei Ying? Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Mm.” His eyes were even tearing up from the pain, and he wiped them with one hand. “So bright, haha.”

            Lan Wangji looked down.

            The sun was filtered through the thick layer of clouds that always surrounded Luanzang Hill. It would only seem bright to someone who wasn’t outside often anymore.

            Wei Wuxian mused, “Mm, I’ll get used to it. I meant to come out earlier today, but A-Yuan needed to have his nap. If he doesn’t sleep at around this time, he gets fussy.”

            The toddler giggled, “No, I don’t.”

            Wei Wuxian turned on him. “Oh? Are you calling me a liar, is that it? He’s Rich Gege, and I’ve been reduced to Lying Gege?” His hand dove to A-Yuan’s ribs, tickling mercilessly.

            The motion elicited a shrieking laugh. It carried across the entire top of the mountain. “Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege, no! Stop! Hahahahahahahaha!”

            Wei Wuxian’s own laugh sounded melodic.

            Lan Wangji watched, his lips twitching. Only someone like Wei Wuxian could be so entertained teasing a child.

            When Wei Wuxian was satisfied, he stopped tickling the toddler and rocked him in his arms. “If I set you down, will you be good?”

            In a thick, creamy voice, A-Yuan pointed out, “I’m always good…” His tone implied he was confused, even hurt, by the accusation.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Mhm. Don’t tug on Hanguang-Jun, okay?”

            A-Yuan nodded very solemnly. “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian pinched his cheek. “Good boy.” He set him down.

            At once, A-Yuan gravitated closer to Lan Wangji and sat by his feet, playing with his new toy.

            As Wei Wuxian’s vision adjusted, he stepped beside Lan Wangji into the sun. He closed his eyes, breathing in slowly.

            Lan Wangji glanced at him.  

            Even in the dimmest of light, Wei Wuxian’s hair shone, catching glimmers of the diluted sun and throwing them back. His lips spread into his usual smile; it held no flicker of the darkness that had consumed him in recent months.

            After he opened his eyes, he looked at Hanguang-Jun. “I’m afraid I don’t even have anywhere for you to sit, Lan Zhan.” He chuckled, mocking himself, “I’m no better prepared for guests than the last time we met. I don’t even have tea for you. What a terrible host I am.”

            Quietly, Lan Wangji said, “It is fine.”

            Wei Wuxian stretched slowly, raising his arms over his head with a grunt. “Mm…So, what brings Hanguang-Jun to the illustrious Burial Mounds today?”

            Lan Wangji hesitated before he answered, “A night-hunt.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh?” He leaned closer, murmuring lowly, “Am I the prey?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze slipped to his playful smile before he looked away. “Of course not.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed freely. “You always take me so seriously. Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, you never change, no matter how old you get. Hahaha, it’s okay, it’s okay! Sometimes, it’s good to be consistent. It’s comforting, really. No matter how much time passes, Hanguang-Jun will always be the same. That should be in a poem or something. I’ll call it, ‘The Seasons Change but Hanguang-Jun Remains the Same.’ What do you think?”

            Lan Wangji replied neutrally, “I think you are ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “And I think you’ve just proved my point, Lan Zhan, hahahaha.” He glanced around at their dismal surroundings—entirely unbefitting of Lan Wangji’s elegance—and suggested, “How about a walk? We can’t just stand here and do nothing.”

            Lan Wangji nodded. “Alright.”

            Wei Wuxian picked A-Yuan up again. “Want to come with us?”

            A-Yuan nodded his head furiously. “Yes!”

            And so they set off.

            Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji walked side-by-side down the path. Several in the camp glanced up at the visiting figure, their eyes catching, but neither man noticed their stares.

            Wei Wuxian mused, “Tell me, Lan Zhan, has anything major happened outside?”

            Lan Wangji wondered, “What would count as major?”

            With a laugh, Wei Wuxian replied, “Hm…for instance, if you’ve found a girl to marry?!”

            Lan Wangji shot a sharp look at him. “Do not speak of such ridiculous things.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Is it so ridiculous? Fine, fine, fine, you don’t have to share. For the record, I haven’t found anyone, either. Surprisingly hard when you’re the Yiling Laozu. Apparently, the profession doesn’t have a lot of interested wives-to-be. I know what you’re thinking! The rumors say I take virgins and spend all day and night ravishing them, but ah! Look around. No virgins here…well…” He grinned at Lan Wangji. “Maybe one?”

            Lan Wangji looked away. “Can we speak of something else?”

            With a loud laugh, Wei Wuxian consented. “Fine, fine, fine. Hm…” He grew a bit more serious. “Have you heard any news from the Jin Sect?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze returned. He decided to forego abstract terms. “She is happy and safe.”

            Wei Wuxian’s vision surprisingly grew blurry. On a day like today, that was good to know. His voice came out deceptively strong as he replied, “Good. Jin Zixuan has been treating her alright?”

            Lan Wangji, “From what I have heard.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “How could you have ‘heard’ about such things from another sect. Unless you asked after such things on my behalf?”

            He had been kidding, but Lan Wangji’s silence made him wonder if that was indeed the case.

            Wei Wuxian walked closer. “Thanks, Lan Zhan. There’s no way for an outcast like me to hear such things. I’m glad you found out for me.”

            Lan Wangji looked away again. “There is no need to thank me.”

            Wei Wuxian fell quiet, lost in his own thoughts.

            As they grew closer to the foot of the mountain, the sound of disgruntled but low-level corpses could be heard.

            Instinctively, Lan Wangji reached for Bichen, but Wei Wuxian stopped him with a wave. “Don’t worry, they’re mine. They’re just keeping the border. Surely you saw them when you came up?”

            Lan Wangji, “…Is such a method truly necessary?”

            Wei Wuxian mused, “What an odd thing to ask. Would I do it if it wasn’t necessary? Do I seem so bored to you? Of course it’s necessary. The cultivation world wants the Wen Sect remnants; this is the only way I can secure the border to the Burial Mounds. No one dares to do anything to me when I leave, but many have tried to come up the mountain—brave souls crusading against the evil Yiling Laozu, I gather. Don’t worry, Lan Zhan; the corpses I put here don’t hurt anyone seriously. They just keep the line, push back whoever tries to get through.”

            Lan Wangji parted his lips to reply but the comment fell away. He remembered Wei Wuxian’s words the last time they had parted all too clearly.

            Wei Wuxian saw him restrain himself. He glanced away with a quiet sigh. Even if he didn’t say it, he knew what Lan Wangji must be thinking. He supposed it was too much to think someone from the Lan Sect could possibly understand his current situation.

            He quickly changed the subject. He didn’t want to fight. “Hey, Lan Zhan, there’s a place I’ve been wanting to check out. Wanna come with me? Let’s make a day of it.”

            Lan Wangji met his eyes and nodded. “Alright.”

            Wei Wuxian adjusted A-Yuan’s weight. “Good! You won’t regret it, hahaha. This way!”

***

It was about an hour’s walk away from Luanzang Hill.

            Wei Wuxian talked the whole time, jumping subjects and growing more and more animated the longer he talked. The further they walked away from the Burial Mounds, the brighter his eyes became.

            He reminisced about their days in the Cloud Recesses, lamented about missing Emperor’s Smile, inquired about the waterborne abyss, and joked about the state of his own living situation. He talked about Wen Qing, Wen Ning, Wen Popo, and Si-Shu, joined in by A-Yuan to share some of the more amusing things that had happened within the last few months.

            Not yet knowing about the sack Lan Wangji had brought, he talked about their failing crops and Wen Qing’s increasing impatience with him—which he couldn’t help but find funny. People feared the Yiling Laozu, and yet she had no problem chewing him out for buying the wrong seeds.

            At first, Lan Wangji merely watched him, silently absorbing both the information and the enthusiasm in Wei Wuxian’s eyes. After a while, he began to reply in one-to-two-word answers, which gradually turned into longer, fuller sentences.

            A-Yuan seemed transfixed by Lan Wangji, watching him closely and even mimicking his posture after a while—which, of course, Wei Wuxian found endlessly amusing. He teased A-Yuan about it, earning a bright blush and a vehement denial.

            When they finally reached a narrow path which curved off the main road, the two were walking in step with one another.

            The few people who passed them on the road would never have guessed that the talking pair were rumored enemies Yiling Laozu and Hanguang-Jun.

            As they turned off the road to the little path, Wei Wuxian perked up. He began to walk faster, urging Lan Wangji to speed up, too.

            Wei Wuxian, “Should be just up here!”

            Lan Wangji followed his eager steps until Wei Wuxian jolted to a stop.

            His eyes grew round, and he grinned. “This is it!”

            Even Lan Wangji was struck more speechless than usual.

            Tucked into the valley between two mountainous peaks was a small but clearly maintained garden. Flowers of many species sprouted from the ground and from bulbous bushes, shockingly beautiful.

            Here, the sun wasn’t obscured through layers of clouds. Free from the resentment of Luanzang Hill, the grass was green, the trees were thick, and the flowers were colorful. Like a private oasis, the garden sprawled ahead of them, inviting the three within.

            Wei Wuxian set A-Yuan down. “Don’t wander too far, okay?”

            A-Yuan nodded quickly, running as fast as his little legs could carry him. He stopped by the first flower he saw, a massive yellow bloom with a dark center. Its blossom was bigger than his head, earning an awed, “Xian-Gege, look!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Careful it doesn’t swallow you whole!”

            A-Yuan ignored him, running to the next flower.

            Lan Wangji walked beside Wei Wuxian. “How did you hear of this place?”

            Wei Wuxian replied in all sincerity, “That is between me, the earth, and the skies.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply—which meant he didn’t press for more information.

            Wei Wuxian complained, “How am I supposed to appear mysterious if you don’t even pretend like you care about my secrets?! Fine, fine, fine, I heard about it from a shopkeeper in the little town below the Burial Mounds.”

            Lan Wangji realized Wei Wuxian wasn’t watching the toddler anymore, so he kept an eye on him in his stead. Suddenly, he called in a quiet voice, “A-Yuan, do not touch that.”

            Wei Wuxian looked up to see the boy freeze as he reached for a large-leafed plant. “Ah!” He darted forward and swept the toddler up. “That’s poisonous, A-Yuan. It’ll make you itch like crazy!”

            The toddler wasn’t concerned, instead giggling at the swift rescue. “Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege, again!”

            Wei Wuxian pursed his lips. “What, this?” He pretended to drop the toddler and then swung him back up.

            A shrieking laugh pierced through the peaceful garden.

            Lan Wangji stopped beside them, watching the boy with a trace of worry. “Do not be so rough, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh? What, you mean like this?” He did it again, grinning as A-Yuan’s laugh grew even shriller. “See, he likes it!”

            Lan Wangji pressed a hand to A-Yuan’s back when Wei Wuxian made to do it a third time. “It is dangerous.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Fine, fine, fine. Daddy Lan Zhan is always right.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flicked to him and then away sharply as he muttered, “…Wuliao!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. He set A-Yuan down again. “Don’t touch any plants that look like this one, okay, A-Yuan? Or this one…or that one…actually, don’t touch anything, okay? …A-Yuan. A-Yuan, are you listening to me?”

            The toddler wasn’t, busy watching a butterfly float overhead.

            “A-Yuan…­Hey, are you listening? A-Yuan~”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “A-Yuan.” At once, the boy looked at him. “Do not touch any plants here.”

            A-Yuan nodded solemnly. “I won’t! Can I go play?! I won’t touch!”

            Lan Wangji nodded, “Yes. Be careful.”

            With a giggle, the toddler took off.

            Wei Wuxian was appalled. Open-mouthed, he stared at Lan Wangji. “How can this be?! Really, just how in the world can this be?! Lan Zhan!! This really is too unfair. Stop smiling! I’m serious! He never listens to me, but you say it once, and his new dad’s word is law.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head. “You are ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin. “Ah, what can I do but repeat myself? The one with milk is mother, the one with—”

            Lan Wangji walked away.

            Wei Wuxian spluttered, “Hey! Wait for me.”

            As they walked, Wei Wuxian plucked a few flowers—pink peonies, lilac dahlias, red carnations. He gathered them together with a bit of thread. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan! Here, take these.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t question it, assuming he meant for him to hold them on his behalf. He took them over, gaze drifting across Wei Wuxian’s delighted features before he looked away. “It is nice here.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Very beautiful.”

            Lan Wangji nodded in agreement. Beside him, Wei Wuxian didn’t seem to retain a flicker of his recent darkness. He seemed like his old self, like the past couple years hadn’t happened at all.

            As the afternoon wore on, he became even more familiar. He walked impossibly closer to Lan Wangji, talking and laughing about nothing, really. Lan Wangji listened, watching the path before them. Occasionally, A-Yuan whipped passed them, chasing a butterfly or darting out from the beds to surprise them. Each time, Wei Wuxian feigned a jump-scare, earning a delighted giggle from the toddler, who then ran away to set up another ambush.

            At one point, A-Yuan tugged on Wei Wuxian’s hand, wanting to race on some random whim. Wei Wuxian wasn’t one to question the minds of children.

            “A race?! You think you can beat me?! Ha! We’ll see about that. Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, keep a careful eye on him. I think he might cheat.”

            A-Yuan’s high laugh even managed to make Lan Wangji smile very subtly. He nodded at Wei Wuxian, gaze soft.

            Wei Wuxian pulled the hems of his robes up as he made a show of stretching. “Alright…ready? On the count of three. One, two—” He took off running.

            A-Yuan’s giggle bounced off the mountains around them. “That’s cheating!!!” He hurried after Wei Wuxian at full speed.

            Lan Wangji watched them run circles around the garden. At times, Wei Wuxian took the lead; at others, he dramatically fell behind, swearing he’d catch up in no time. A-Yuan seemed to have limitless energy.

            The race didn’t have a clear ending or beginning. It dissolved from a competition into Wei Wuxian chasing A-Yuan to try to catch him.

            A-Yuan seemed to like this game even more than the race, if his laughter was anything to go by. Oddly enough, the sound rang similar to Wei Wuxian’s.

            More than an hour passed with them chasing each other all over the garden. Finally, Wei Wuxian couldn’t hold up. His breaths were heaving so hard that his ribs hurt, and he could taste a flicker of copper at the back of his throat. He caught A-Yuan in his arms and collapsed to the ground.

            “Ah! You’ve felled the great Yiling Laozu! How—how can this be?!”

            A-Yuan was panting just as hard. “Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege, water…”

            Lan Wangji came over as he heard the request, offering his own water satchel.

            Wei Wuxian held it up for A-Yuan. “Careful, don’t drink too fast.”

            The toddler swallowed a couple mouthfuls and pushed the canteen at Wei Wuxian. “You now.”

            Wei Wuxian held it up and let the water trickle into his mouth. He wiped his chin with back of his wrist and returned the water to Lan Wangji. “Ah, I’m exhausted. Who knew kids had so much energy?!”

            A-Yuan giggled and jumped up. “Again!”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand. “Go on without me! I’m done for!”

            The toddler ran around him, pulling his arm to try to lift him to his feet. “Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege, Xian-Gege! Again, again, again!”

            Lan Wangji realized Wei Wuxian was neither exaggerated nor joking. His skin was flushed, and a faint flash of pain flitted across his expression as he pressed against his ribs.

            Quietly, Lan Wangji said, “A-Yuan, let him rest.”

            A-Yuan let Wei Wuxian’s hand fall back to the ground. “Okay!” He spun around and pointed to the garden. “Can I go play in there? I won’t touch anything.”

            Lan Wangji nodded, “Stay within eyesight.”

            With an affirmative hum, the toddler skipped away again. He glanced back to make sure he could always see the pair as he continued playing and aimlessly hopping around.

            Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, breathing through reddened lips. His eyebrows drew together as beads of sweat rolled down his temples.

            Lan Wangji sat beside him slowly. “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand. “Mm. Just been a while since I’ve run around like that. Overdid it a bit.” He dug his fingers into a stitch in his side.

            A cool breeze brushed through the grass, offering a flicker of relief.

            Even sweaty and drained, Wei Wuxian looked exceptionally handsome. The sun reflected in his hair, making it shine brilliantly. His lashes were long and dark, casting shadows over his cheeks. When he opened his eyes, his irises were rendered an even richer color.

            Lan Wangji looked back at A-Yuan when he heard him giggling madly. A swarm of butterflies encircled the boy. One landed on his hand, and he stared at it in awe.

            Wei Wuxian sat up, resting his arms on his knees. “He’s a good kid.”

            Lan Wangji nodded.

            Reflectively, Wei Wuxian mused, “Watching him play puts things into perspective. Sometimes, I really need that perspective.”

            Lan Wangji’s light eyes drifted to his. He didn’t say anything; nothing he could’ve said would have made that statement less weighted.

            After a moment, Wei Wuxian changed subjects. “Ugh, I really shouldn’t have run around so much, hahaha. Being sedentary for so long has made me weak. My chest hurts…How embarrassing.”

            Lan Wangji reached for his hand. “Here.”

            Wei Wuxian snatched his wrist away quickly. “What are you doing? Why use spiritual energy for something so absurd? I’ll be fine. I just need to catch my breath.”

            Lan Wangji let his hand fall slowly.

            Wei Wuxian smiled, switching subjects once more. “It’s been a good day. I’m glad A-Yuan can run around here and play. There aren’t many such places for him on the mountain. There aren’t butterflies there, either. He really likes butterflies…” His smile broadened, and he gestured with his chin. “Look at that.”

            Lan Wangji followed his gaze. A-Yuan was still surrounded by butterflies. They weren’t afraid of him, fluttering close and landing on his clothes. He didn’t harm any of them, moving with exaggerated slowness so he didn’t scare them away.

            The rest of the afternoon passed slowly. As A-Yuan played, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji stayed in the grass. Wei Wuxian lay back, closing his eyes and soaking in the sun. He hummed drowsily and felt certain he fell asleep for a while, because one moment, the sun was shining warmly on his face, and the next, it was slipping behind the mountains.

            Wei Wuxian sat up slowly and rubbed his eyes. “…I guess we should head back now.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply, looking at the grass below Wei Wuxian’s knee.

            Wei Wuxian stood. He brushed his robes clean and called, “A-Yuan, come on. It’s time to go.”

            A-Yuan pouted, “But-but-but—”

            Wei Wuxian, “We’ll come back soon if we can, but we’ll be late for dinner as it is. Come on. Wen Qing will be angry with me for keeping you out so late. Do you want me to get into trouble?!”

            The toddler giggled at his tone and ran over. “Okay, okay, Xian-Gege.” He lifted his arms and let Wei Wuxian pick him up.

            Immediately, Wei Wuxian let out a quiet huff and winced.

            Lan Wangji offered quietly, “Let me.” He extended his hands.

            Wei Wuxian, “You’d carry him?”

            Lan Wangji nodded.

            Wei Wuxian, “Alright. Be good, A-Yuan. No tugging.”

            Lan Wangji took the toddler over and let him sit on his arm. In his other hand, he still carried the bundle of flowers. Together, they set off on the path again.

            Oddly enough, neither Lan Wangji nor Wei Wuxian suggested they use Bichen to quicken the trip.

            When they were halfway back to the Burial Mounds, A-Yuan grew very quiet. Wei Wuxian looked over to realize he’d fallen asleep, resting against Lan Wangji’s shoulder with his forehead pressed to his neck.

            For some reason, this made Wei Wuxian’s heart melt. He smiled and looked straight ahead. “Who knew Lan Zhan was so good with kids? He’s slept on both of us today, hahaha. How spoiled.”

            Lan Wangji just gazed at him silently. He parted his lips to say something but closed his mouth again after a moment.

            When they reached the foot of Luanzang Hill, both paused.

            Silence fell over them.

            After a moment, with a rare streak of sincerity, Wei Wuxian said, “I had fun today, Lan Zhan. Thank you for joining me.”

            Lan Wangji’s expression froze and then became indifferent again. “…You do not need to say this to me.”

            Wei Wuxian, “No, I mean it. Hanguang-Jun is very busy, but you still made time to see me. Really, I appreciate it. Today…” He sighed and looked away. “It just meant a lot is all, so thanks.” He glanced at the toddler. “Here, I can take him.”

            Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian stepped close together, trying to move the baby from one shoulder to another as gently as they could. Noses almost brushing, Lan Wangji’s light-colored gaze drifted across Wei Wuxian’s features. His lips parted to say something but, again, nothing came out.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t notice any of this, preoccupied with not waking A-Yuan. When he had him, he stepped back and rocked him, rubbing his back. “I’d invite you to stay for dinner, but…”

            Lan Wangji lowered his gaze and replied quietly, “…I should get back.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded. He couldn’t readily explain the tightness in his own chest. It verged on foreboding, like this would be the last time he’d see Lan Wangji. He dismissed the feeling at once. He didn’t really believe in such superstitious things. Nothing was decided.

            “Thank you, Lan Zhan. Really.”

            Lan Wangji closed his eyes briefly. “There is no need.” He held the flowers out.

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “Keep them for me, won’t you, Lan Zhan? They’ll die too soon if I take them.”

            Lan Wangji, “Alright.”

            Wei Wuxian gazed at him a moment longer. “See you, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji looked up when Wei Wuxian turned around. Toddler over his shoulder, he began the slow climb back up the mountain.

            For the third time, Lan Wangji parted his lips to speak. But all that came out was a soft, “Be careful, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian somehow heard it. He waved one hand without turning around.

            In truth, he couldn’t. Some odd emotion was tugging at his heart, confusing him with its potency. He smiled down at A-Yuan instead of analyzing it, rubbing the toddler’s back.

            Lan Wangji waited until he disappeared from sight, and then he slowly turned around.

            At the top of the mountain, Wen Qing had clearly been waiting for them to return. She sighed and walked forward. “Where have you been? You’ve been gone all day.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “What, were you worried?”

            Wen Qing, “About you? No. About him, obviously.”

            Wei Wuxian feigned a wound. “Ah, so cruel.”

            Wen Qing, “Where’s Hanguang-Jun?”

            Wei Wuxian’s tone was neutral as he answered, “He had to go home. Each to their own sect.”

            Wen Qing watched him for a moment, processing his expression. “Well, hurry up. We waited until you were back to eat. We were able to make a good dinner with the stuff Hanguang-Jun brought.”

            Wei Wuxian looked at her, confused. “The stuff he brought?”

            Wen Qing, “He didn’t tell you? He brought things for the farm and the kitchen. We’ll have good meals for at least a month, and then the crops will be ready.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced back at the mountain path. “…Ah, Lan Zhan…”

            Wen Qing gestured to A-Yuan. “He’s wiped out. What were you three doing all day?”

            Wei Wuxian shrugged, “Just walking around.”

            Wen Qing knew he was obviously not being honest, but she didn’t press him. He wanted it to just be for the three of them; that was fine. “Well, I’m glad you got some fresh air.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded slowly. Almost to himself, he mused, “I wonder how he knew to come today, or if that was just coincidence.”

            Wen Qing, “Why? What’s today?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled softly. “Ah, never mind. Does Si-Shu have any more wine? I feel like drinking tonight.”

***

Now

Wei Wuxian’s eyes opened blearily to the soft morning light spilling in through the window. Beside him, Lan Wangji was already awake, brushing his fingers languidly through Wei Wuxian’s hair.

            Wei Wuxian grinned and rolled over on top of Lan Wangji. He hugged him tightly. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I had such a good dream. Do you remember when you came to the Burial Mounds and we took A-Yuan to a garden?”

            Lan Wangji nodded, meeting his gaze with burning affection. “I do.”

            Wei Wuxian crawled further up, straddling Lan Wangji’s waist and moving closer until their lips were centimeters apart. “Did you know it was my birthday?”

            Lan Wangji nodded slowly again. He brushed the backs of his fingers across Wei Wuxian’s cheek.

            Wei Wuxian’s chest felt impossibly warmer. He ventured, “Is that why you came? What about the night-hunt? Did you pick one in Yiling just to see me?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. Quietly, he admitted, “…There was no night-hunt.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t waste time, surging forward to kiss him. “I thought you weren’t supposed to lie in the Cloud Recesses.”

            Lan Wangji, “I was not in the Cloud Recesses.”

            At the unexpected response, Wei Wuxian burst with a laugh. “I once asked you to drink with me because we weren’t at your sect’s residence, and you turned me down. Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I had no idea you used such loopholes.”

            Lan Wangji kissed him again. It was slow and languid. Tenderness pooled along with the flush under Wei Wuxian’s skin. When Lan Wangji pulled back, he murmured softly, “I did not want you to be alone.”

            Wei Wuxian tucked his head into Lan Wangji’s neck, hugging him as tight as he could. “I had forgotten it was my birthday. I only remembered it when I saw you, for some reason. I’m glad I got to spend it with you, even back then.” After a moment, he wondered, “When you got home, did you get punished for seeing me?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply, as though that detail didn’t matter to him in the least. 

            But Wei Wuxian could read the answer in his silence. “Well, that’s not right.” With another smile, he kissed Lan Wangji. “Let me make it up to you.”

Chapter Text

Regarding the weather in Yunmeng, Wei Wuxian was of the opinion that every day was beautiful. But he had to admit that today ranked among one of the prettier days.

            It was warm, and there wasn’t a single cloud in sight. The breeze that rustled the branches and pulled at the hair and robes of the walking pair was gentle and cool, balancing the heat of the sun.

            Wei Wuxian was walking backwards on the road, watching Jiang Yanli as he spoke animatedly. His hands waved in a theatrical retelling of the epic events that had transpired at the Cloud Recesses. It wasn’t his first time sharing these stories, but Jiang Yanli liked hearing about them, so of course she didn’t mind.

            She was watching her younger brother with a gentle but amused smile. Occasionally, when he made her laugh, she lifted her sleeve to cover the lower half of her face. She saw the brightness in Wei Wuxian’s eyes and knew that, though he’d had many friends throughout his life, none of them had quite earned the enthusiasm he spoke with now.  

            However, after hearing about one particular incident, she couldn’t take it in silence anymore. She commented with a laugh, “A-Xian, you’re too much. How can you say he and you are best friends after that?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Precisely because of that. No one can resist my charms!” He whipped around and hugged Jiang Yanli’s arm pointedly. “Right, Shijie?”

            With a soft smile, she agreed, “Mm, our A-Xian is very likable.”

            Wei Wuxian repeated, “Likable? …Just likable?”

            With another laugh, she corrected, “Okay, okay, our A-Xian is the best!”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, hugging her arm tighter. “That sounds more accurate.”

            Jiang Yanli brushed her knuckle against his nose with a fond smile. “What happened after the rabbits?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well, not much else could happen. I came home to see you because I missed you so much!”

            Jiang Yanli, “What about when you said goodbye to Lan Er-Gongzi?”

            Wei Wuxian made a face. He released her arm to walk backwards again as he defended himself. “Well…there wasn’t time for that, Shijie, because I knew if that I didn’t come home immediately, I’d die from the loneliness!”

            Jiang Yanli, “But you said you are close friends.”

            Wei Wuxian, “We are!”

            Jiang Yanli worried, “Then don’t you think you might have hurt his feelings by leaving without notice?”

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin. “Hmm…I hadn’t thought about that…but I don’t think he’ll be mad! Next time I see him, I bet he’ll be so excited that he’ll have totally forgotten.”

            Jiang Yanli giggled quietly, “Lan Er-Gongzi will get excited, huh?” It was a well-known fact that he showed very few emotions.

            Wei Wuxian nodded, shamelessly declaring, “Yes! Even Lan Zhan gets excited when I’m around.”

            Jiang Yanli grinned and was on the verge of replying when they heard a quiet sneeze from within the depths of the trees.

            They paused on the path in surprise. Few people walked through these woods on purpose, wary of both wild animals and bandits.

            However, right after the sneeze, Wei Wuxian heard a soft but warm voice.

            “Wangji, is it the pollen?”

            The voice that replied was far too quiet to hear with clarity, but it was an unmistakable tone.

            Wei Wuxian perked up. “Ha! I don’t believe it! Shijie, come on! Careful…” He took her hand and helped her through the thicket of bushes on the side of the road. Once they were clear, both started jogging lightly through the trees.

            Ahead, Wei Wuxian could make out a small, temporary camp. Several radiantly clothed figures were gathered around, but all paled in comparison to the Two Jades of Lan.

            Lan Xichen was quietly offering instructions to the disciples when Wei Wuxian and Jiang Yanli broke into the clearing.

            Jiang Yanli pulled Wei Wuxian to a stop, worried about offending the Lan Sect by intruding.

            Wei Wuxian wasn’t as concerned. Heedless of the warning squeeze Jiang Yanli gave his hand, he couldn’t help himself from bursting, “Lan Zhan!!!”

            Lan Wangji had been listening to his brother respectfully, but the second he heard the familiar voice, his light-colored eyes flicked over. They widened very minutely in surprise, but then his gaze fell to the hand clasped in Wei Wuxian’s, and his expression grew blank again.

            Jiang Yanli’s breath caught as several pairs of eyes turned on them in unison. Of course, everyone knew the beauty of the Two Jades of Lan, but seeing them so close was a very different realization. They truly were beautiful; neither Wei Wuxian nor any of the others Jiang Yanli had spoken to had exaggerated.

            Lan Wangji and Lan Xichen looked so similar, and the former looked so stern, that, for a moment, Jiang Yanli had trouble telling which was older.

            Wei Wuxian grinned broadly, “Lan Zhan!!! I was just talking about you! What a coincidence!” He realized Jiang Yanli was a bit frozen and laughed, “See, I didn’t exaggerate, did I? Isn’t Lan Zhan just as handsome as I said?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened as he looked away.

            Lan Xichen gave them a warm smile. “Wei Gongzi, what a surprise to see you here.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, not too surprising! Lotus Pier isn’t too far from here, after all.”

            Jiang Yanli worried his tone was a bit too casual for such a prominent cultivator, but Lan Xichen didn’t seem to mind in the least.

            He smiled warmly, “Of course, you are right.”

            Wei Wuxian hurriedly added, “Oh! Zewu-Jun, Lan Zhan, this is my shijie, Jiang Yanli! Remember I told you about her, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji blinked, offering a respectful salute. “Jiang Guniang.”

            Jiang Yanli’s cheeks flushed, and she hurried to offer a deeper bow in return. “Zewu-Jun, Lan Er-Gongzi, I’m very pleased to meet you.”

            Lan Xichen smiled, “It is nice to meet you as well, Jiang Guniang. If I may ask, what are you two doing all the way out here? I am afraid it is not very safe today. Wangji and I were passing through the area when we heard of the danger nearby.”

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head curiously. “Danger? Why didn’t I hear about it?”

            Lan Xichen, “It appears to have begun only this morning. We were on the path when we were approached by farmers running from their village. It appears there are dark spirits within these trees. We would have brought the matter to the Jiang Sect, of course, but since we were already here, we thought we would lend a hand.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh! Well, I can help!”

            Lan Wangji replied neutrally, “That is not necessary.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I know the area better. I’d be happy to help, if it’s alright with Zewu-Jun.” He knew there were often secret things sects didn’t want others to know about.

            But Lan Xichen smiled, “We would be grateful for the assistance of Wei Gongzi.”

            Lan Wangji looked like he wanted to argue, but he didn’t get the chance.

            Wei Wuxian eagerly said, “Okay! Let me walk Shijie home, and I’ll grab Suibian.”

            Lan Xichen’s lips twitched at the sword’s name. “We will wait for you, then.”

            Jiang Yanli noticed the look Lan Wangji gave Wei Wuxian right before they left. It made heat climb into her cheeks again. After a moment, she smiled, ducking her head faintly to hide it. She wondered if Wei Wuxian knew what such a look meant, too.

            When they reached the road, Wei Wuxian noticed her soft expression. “What is it, Shijie? Is it Lan Zhan? I told you he was beautiful, but…tch, he really is too serious. He hardly ever smiles! How can such a person exist?”

            Jiang Yanli’s own smile broadened at her brother’s profile as he delved into the topic of their “boring” time together in the Library Pavilion. She realized he didn’t know what Lan Wangji was thinking, but she also knew it wasn’t her place to intervene in such matters. Not only that, but she worried she had misread the look or misunderstood its depth. After all, Lan Wangji was well-known for being difficult to read.

            Silently, she listened to her brother rant about the seemingly “impossible” person who “vexed” him so much. For the rest of the walk, her smile didn’t fade even a little.

***

The next hour found Wei Wuxian sticking to Lan Wangji like glue. He had been trying every method he could think of to get him to look at him. So far, nothing had worked.

            “Lan Zhan…Lan Zhan~. Lan Zhan!!! …Lan Er-Gongzi? Lan Wangji? Lan Er-Ge—”

            Lan Wangji, “Be quiet or you will be silenced.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Are you mad at me? If it’s because I left without saying goodbye, it’s only because I was worried you’d cry.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head minutely. “Ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Ah, that’s a word I’ve missed for the last six months. You must have been so lonely in the Library Pavilion without me all this time. Even if you can’t admit it out loud, I know you definitely missed me.”

            Lan Wangji was clutching his sword’s sheath so tightly that his knuckles were pale. Still, his expression was utterly blank, if a bit cold.

            Wei Wuxian continued smoothly into the next topic. “I’m glad you finally got to meet Shijie! Isn’t she the best? Well…I suppose you didn’t really get to talk to her for long, but trust me, she’s the best! …Hey, I’ve got an idea!! After we’re done here, why don’t you come to Lotus Pier? I spent so many nights in your home, and you haven’t even visited mine! There’s plenty of room for everyone, and we can all have a meal together and—”

            Lan Wangji interrupted quietly, “We cannot linger here long. We are expected somewhere by tonight.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh…Well, pretend you didn’t have to be somewhere! If that were the case, would you come?”

            Lan Wangji replied honestly, “No.”

            Wei Wuxian feigned shock. “How can you say such a thing?! You always refuse me without even considering the offer. You’ll like Lotus Pier! It’s so different from the Cloud Recesses and so fun. We could—”

            Suddenly, Lan Wangji glanced to the side and then shoved Wei Wuxian’s shoulder.

            Wei Wuxian was so shocked that he fell back several steps. His words fell away as his eyes widened. Lan Wangji had never shoved him before.

            A split second later, he realized the reason behind such behavior. A dark spirit came rushing toward them, cutting through the space right where Wei Wuxian had stood a moment ago. Bichen’s sword glare swept through the air, and the dark spirit was gone an instant later.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Impressive, Lan Zhan! I didn’t even hear it come up.”

            Lan Wangji, “That is because you have not stopped talking.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded thoughtfully, “That’s true, that’s true. For a second, I thought you were so mad at me that you wanted to stab me, hahahaha. Anyway, what was I saying…?”

            Lan Wangji sighed quietly. “I thought you were here to help.”

            “I am!”

            “You are not being helpful. You are being loud.”

            “And drawing all the spirits in close so you can kill them. There’s no need to thank me.”

            Lan Wangji stared at him a moment, as though he didn’t know which word to use for such a ridiculous statement. After struggling briefly, he whirled around and stormed off with a muffled, “…Absurd.”

            Wei Wuxian caught up instantly. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, how can you be so put out already? We haven’t seen each other in six months, and you’re already back to lecturing me.”

            Lan Wangji, “We are here to night-hunt.”

            Wei Wuxian, “And to catch up!”

            Lan Wangji, “Do you take anything seriously?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Not if I can help it.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head, sighing through his nose. “Childish.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Good thing you’re enough of an old man to balance me out, then, huh?” He really was pressing his luck. He was shocked he hadn’t been silenced an hour ago. In the Library Pavilion, Lan Wangji never would have let him get away with so much.

            Still, he continued, wondering just how far he could push it. “You know, Lan Zhan, if you keep acting like this, everyone will think I lied when I said we’re best friends.”

            Lan Wangji looked away, muttering, “We are not even familiar.”

            Wei Wuxian, “What does it take to be familiar with you? We’ve studied together, been punished together, and fought together. What do I have to do, hm?” He reached for Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon to yank on it, but Lan Wangji sidestepped him.

            Furiously, he demanded, “What are you doing?”

            “Trying to get you to look at me.”

            Lan Wangji ordered in an icy tone, “Do not touch me.”       

            Wei Wuxian held his hands up, “Alright, alright, I won’t touch you. But really, what does it take to be familiar with you? How long do I have to wait?”

            Lan Wangji, “We will never be familiar.”

            Wei Wuxian gasped quietly and pressed his hand to his chest. “L-Lan Zhan…” He fell to one knee.

            For whatever reason, the suddenness of it took Lan Wangji by surprise. He glanced back and then whirled around, extending a hand halfway out. “Wei Ying?”

            Wei Wuxian fell to the ground, groaning, “Lan…Lan Zhan…how can you be so cruel?”

            Realizing it was just another joke, Lan Wangji exhaled sharply. “Utterly ridiculous.”

            Without another word, he turned and left, like he wanted nothing to do with such an absurd person ever again.

            Wei Wuxian scrambled to his feet and caught up again. “Hahahaha, Lan Zhan, you’re so fun to play with. I can’t believe you were so worried! What did you even think I’d gotten hurt by? Hahahaha, I knew we were best friends.”

            Lan Wangji said through his teeth, “We are not.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Then how am I able to always get such a rise out of you, even after such a long absence? If not your friend, what else could I be to you?”

            Lan Wangji turned away, glaring at the trees as his earlobe darkened. “…Wuliao…”

            Wei Wuxian suddenly caught his arm. “Wait, shh.”

            Lan Wangji pulled away and frowned at Wei Wuxian only to see a flicker of sincerity. “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian put a finger to his lips. Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to the motion and then flitted away swiftly.

            Wei Wuxian pointed, “Up ahead! I think I heard something! Finally!”

            They walked forward together and entered a field of low-level corpses.

            Wei Wuxian hummed thoughtfully, “Wonder why there are so many gathered here. Did something happen here I don’t know about? …Oh well, let’s get to work, Lan Zhan!” He jumped through the trees and started the fight.

            Lan Wangji pulled his guqin, Wangji, out. He ran his fingers over the strings, producing a sweet, solemn melody.

            It carried across the field, echoing back to them strongly. Several weaker corpses fell at once while others howled at the way it affected them. They turned on Lan Wangji, wanting to eliminate the thing making such a sound.

            Wei Wuxian was more than ready, though. Suibian’s red sword glare swept back and forth effortlessly.

            Wangji’s strings were like formless arrows, its melody piercing the corpses it came across and leaving them immobile on the ground.

            Lan Wangji noticed that, though Wei Wuxian was focused and highly skilled, he really wasn’t taking the fight very seriously. Aided by a mixture of natural talent and rigorous training, he laughed, chatted, and joked his way through the fight. He spent more time commenting on Lan Wangji’s “elegance” than anything else.

            Despite his casual attitude, he was surrounded by many corpses. Three fought him on the front, slashing claws and teeth.

            A fourth corpse approached from behind. It raised its rusty sword, preparing to slice across Wei Wuxian’s back.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers hit the strings of his guqin, forcing out a violent, harsh note. Soft ticking sounds came from the corpse’s head, and then it fell to the ground. Lan Wangji moved to stand closer to Wei Wuxian, his melody returning to its solemn tune.

            When the last corpse fell, Wei Wuxian wiped his blade clean and sheathed it. “Your playing has gotten even better in the last six months, Lan Zhan! Such strong cultivation.”

            Lan Wangji ignored the compliment. “Let us finish it.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “We’ll burn these and go find your brother.”

            “Mm.”

            They spent the next half hour gathering the bodies into one pile, and then Wei Wuxian used a flame talisman to set them on fire.

            However, it was unlike any Lan Wangji had ever seen. It took the form of hundreds of dragonflies whose fiery wings flashed through the sky. They circled the area regally and then threw themselves onto the bodies, erupting in a wild inferno that shaped itself into a massive dragonfly before dimming.

            Wei Wuxian noticed his gaze and grinned, “How is it? Do you like it?”

            Lan Wangji looked at him. “Did you make it?”

            Wei Wuxian shrugged nonchalantly. “I like to play with new talismans. Here, take some! I have plenty at home.” He thrust a bunch of them into Lan Wangji’s hand.

            Lan Wangji frowned slightly but surprisingly didn’t return them. After a moment, he put them in his sleeve.

            Wei Wuxian was already moving onto the next subject, leading them through the trees once more.

            At first, Lan Wangji maintained his silence, but after a while, he began to reply in short, quiet answers. He glanced at Wei Wuxian periodically to see the other boy’s eyes bright as he talked.

           Lan Wangji had often seen him talk like this with Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang. His lips twitched faintly.

            Wei Wuxian really wasn’t paying much attention to his surroundings. He was too busy bragging about Lotus Pier, hoping to make Lan Wangji envious enough that he changed his mind and decided to visit. He had begun to twirl his sheathed blade in his hands, talking faster than before. He was so caught up in his own conversation that he missed the obvious indentation in the ground’s foliage.

            His next step sent him careening into a pit with a yelp. His sword went flying in the opposite direction as he instinctively reached for something to anchor him.

            Unfortunately, that something was Lan Wangji, and even more unfortunately, the other boy hadn’t expected something so sudden. His reflexes were slowed down after focusing on Wei Wuxian’s words, and he failed to catch them. Rarely caught so off guard, Lan Wangji dropped his own sword, and then both of them were tumbling into the pit.

            Wei Wuxian landed on top of Lan Wangji, and both grunted at the hard impact.

            Lan Wangji grew as stiff as a board. Furiously, he ordered, “Get off.”

            Wei Wuxian was a bit disoriented, seeing stars. He picked his head up and then realized how he was pressed against Lan Wangji. With a laugh, he got off quickly, “Hahaha, my fault, my fault. You broke my fall! Are you okay?’ He pulled Lan Wangji up after him and managed to sweep a little dirt off the other boy’s immaculate robes before Lan Wangji stepped away.

            He seemed rather angry. “Did you do this on purpose?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “How could I have done this on purpose? Really, Lan Zhan, you give me too much credit. It was an accident; I didn’t mean to take you with me.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw was tight. “Where is Suibian?”

            Wei Wuxian pointed up with a grin that didn’t seem very apologetic. “Dropped it. Where’s Bichen?”

            Lan Wangji looked away with a cold expression.

           Wei Wuxian cracked up, clapping his hands together. “Oh, what a turn of events! Hahahahaha, the first day Lan Zhan has been at such a disadvantage, trapped in a hunter’s pit with me, hahahahahaha.” He wiped at tears in his eyes before he leaned over and laughed even harder. “I can’t believe you dropped your sword, too, hahahahahaha! What had you so distracted?! Hahahahahahaha, Lan Zhan, I can’t breathe…hahahahahaha.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head and looked at the walls. They went at least ten feet up, far too high for the average hunter pit. He briefly thought they might have been created to protect the village from walking corpses. It wasn’t an unheard-of practice. Villages sometimes used such methods to at least limit the number of potentially invading corpses. However…

            Wei Wuxian wiped his eyes again, sobering up with great difficulty. Lan Wangji’s thoughts were easy enough to figure out, so—sounding far too amused for the situation—he mused, “Walking corpses don’t think for themselves, so there’s no reason for villagers to hide such a pit. Walking corpses would walk into it even if it weren’t covered. And it’s too deep for animals, which can only mean…” Wei Wuxian snickered.

            Lan Wangji, “What?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Bandits!”

            Lan Wangji frowned at him. “Why are you so pleased?”

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s something new! A hunter’s pit would have been so boring, but I’ve never been caught by bandits before! As far as bandit traps go, this one seems pretty good. Too tall to jump and reach the top, and the walls are smoothed so flat that there’s nothing to hold onto. Impressive, really. Guess one of us will have to give the other a boost, hehe.”

            Lan Wangji seemed livid. “Did you do this on purpose?” After all, Wei Wuxian had said he knew the area well, and what else could he be so amused about?!

            Wei Wuxian pressed a hand over his heart. “Lan Zhan, really, your accusations are so hurtful. Would I ever purposefully pull Lan Er-Gongzi into a trap just because I was bored? You could’ve gotten hurt on that fall!”

            Lan Wangji exhaled slowly and shook his head. Though he still looked far too amused, Wei Wuxian’s gaze was sincere enough.

            Lan Wangji moved to the back wall and interlaced his fingers, offering a platform. “Here.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “Thanks, Lan Zhan!” He lifted a hand to Lan Wangji’s shoulder, preparing to step up.

            Lan Wangji frowned. “Do not touch me.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I have to so I can get up. Do you want me to fall?”

            Lan Wangji gave the wall a cold look as he bore with it.

            Wei Wuxian steadied himself on Lan Wangji’s shoulder and stepped up on his hands. Lan Wangji lifted him easily. Wei Wuxian tried to balance himself with his hands and his other leg, but there really wasn’t anything to grab onto.

            He tried to reach up when he was as high as Lan Wangji could lift him. “Mm, no good. I’ll have to stand on your shoulders. Is it okay, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji nodded once, “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian tried to pick a place that wouldn’t hurt him. He stood slowly, wary of going too fast. He nearly fell as he straightened, but Lan Wangji’s hand caught the back of his knee and steadied him.

            Immediately, though, Wei Wuxian gasped and buckled. “Lan—hahahahahaha—L-Lan Zhan!!!! S-stop, hahahahahahaha, I’m ticklish there, hahahahahaha, don’t do that—whoa!” He nearly fell again.

            Lan Wangji moved his hand. “Do not play around.”

            Wei Wuxian caught his breath, “I’m not! I really am ticklish.”

            He reached up again. If he stretched, he could just barely touch the top. He grabbed the ledge and kicked at the wall, pulling himself up with several grunts and no leverage. His fingers ached from the pressure, but he managed it. He got his elbows over the edge of the surface and was almost out of the hole when something flashed before his vision. He didn’t process what it was right away, rather shocked at the turn of events. It wasn’t until the blunt end of the saber was inches from his face that he registered the danger. He raised one of his arms instinctively to block the hit, but it was still powerful enough to send a jolt of pain all the way up to his shoulder. With a grunt, he lost his grip and fell back into the hole.

            “Wei Ying!”

            Lan Wangji caught him swiftly, eyes widening at the blood from the shallow cut on his forearm. His expression turned murderous as he looked up at the top of the hole.

            “Ow.” Wei Wuxian stood from Lan Wangji, reaching for a handkerchief in his sleeve. He pressed it to the wound, gasping softly. “Who knew bandits were so rude?” And quiet. He’d thought bandits would be more talkative, but these were eerily silent, moving without sounds.

            A man in dark clothes appeared at the top of the pit, leveling a crossbow at Wei Wuxian.

            Lan Wangji pulled him back, stepping in front of him as they avoided the first shot. The second was faster and came from behind. It caught Wei Wuxian’s arm near his shoulder. Luckily, it didn’t bury itself there. It glanced off his arm, slicing through his skin before it embedded itself into the wall.

            Wei Wuxian gasped at the pain and held his arm. Blood seeped through his fingers swiftly, staining his sleeve.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed to the injury before his expression became even deadlier.

            Without a word, he backed up as far as he could and then jumped.

            Wei Wuxian’s mouth dropped open as he saw Lan Wangji do something that should have been impossible. He kicked midway up one wall only to kick off the opposite wall and grab onto the surface. He hoisted himself up, barely more than a second passing between the arrow slicing Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji reaching the surface.

            He was out of sight at once. The sound of Bichen unsheathing came a moment later, following by shouts and cries of pain.

            Wei Wuxian called, “Lan Zhan! Is Suibian near—”

            Before he even finished, the sword was falling toward him. Wei Wuxian mounted it and flew up out of the hole. He landed beside Lan Wangji, and then Suibian’s white blade was joining Bichen’s crystalline one.

            What followed could hardly be called a fight. They finished the few remaining bandits off within mere seconds. The men lay writhing on the ground, complaining about their non-fatal wounds.

            As soon as the fight was over, Lan Wangji inspected Wei Wuxian’s arm.

            He tried to wave him off. “It’s fine, it’s fine. Barely a scratch.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t comment, but he clearly disagreed. He tore a strip from his own robe. The almost blindingly white fabric was dyed crimson as he tied it above the arrow wound.

            Wei Wuxian was so shocked, he nearly jumped. “Lan Zhan! Why’d you do that? Your robes are too nice to do such a thing. It’s not like I’m dying.”

            Lan Wangji ignored him, tying the temporary tourniquet as tight as he could.

            Wei Wuxian gasped. “Ah…hurts.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw tightened as he looked up.

            Wei Wuxian misinterpreted the concern there. “What? I really didn’t do this on purpose! You think I wanted to get hurt?”

            Lan Wangji, “There is a medic with Xiongzhang. Let us return.”

            Wei Wuxian, “What about them?”

            Lan Wangji glanced at the injured bandits.

            Wei Wuxian snapped his fingers, “Oh!! I’ve got it! Get them in the hole, Lan Zhan. I’ll explain in a second!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t question him, helping Wei Wuxian push the men into their own pit.

            Afterwards, Wei Wuxian didn’t so much explain as demonstrate. He pulled a yellow talisman from his sleeve and tossed it out. The talisman burst in midair, and golden threads sprung out. They laced together, spinning to form a wide net. It flung itself over the mouth of the pit, effectively trapping the bandits.

            Wei Wuxian grinned at Lan Wangji’s profile, waiting for his reaction.

            But if he was impressed, he didn’t let on. He looked at Wei Wuxian expressionlessly and said, “Let us go.”

            Wei Wuxian was shocked. He sheathed his blade and complained, “How can you be so cold, Lan Zhan? It’s a brand-new talisman I just finished perfecting last night, and you act like you’ve seen it a dozen times!”

            Lan Wangji only replied with a quiet, “Quickly.”

            Wei Wuxian groaned and hurried after the other boy, not wanting to be left behind.

            He kept his hand over his arm, but Lan Wangji had cut off the blood flow, so it wasn’t too bad anymore.

            Lan Wangji glanced at him after a while. “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “Of course I am. This is nothing. I’ve had worse in Lotus Pier. Yu Furen would definitely do much worse if she caught me slacking off, hahahaha.” That probably wasn’t true, but Wei Wuxian really didn’t know. Yu Furen had never caught him slacking off before. He was far too sneaky for that.

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitched, taking him rather seriously.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t notice. He was busy twirling his sword again with his injured arm. “Oh, right! I meant to ask you earlier. How’s Jiang Cheng?!”

            Lan Wangji looked straight ahead. “He is fine.”

            Wei Wuxian, “He must be miserable without me, just like another certain someone who won’t admit it. Oh! And Nie-xiong! How’s he?”

            Lan Wangji, “Fine.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Did he pass his tests?”

            Lan Wangji answered indifferently, “No.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, “Ah, that’s too bad.” He grinned and added, “If only I’d been there, I could’ve helped him…”    

            Lan Wangji gave him a cold look.

            Wei Wuxian, “…study, Lan Zhan. You didn’t let me finish, hahahaha. So suspicious. What about you? How were your test scores?”

            Lan Wangji, “Fine.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Just fine? You’re too humble. I bet they were perfect. I bet Lan Laotou—I mean Lan Qianbei cried as he graded yours, overjoyed with his favorite pupil.”

            Lan Wangji shook his head and looked away.

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin, “If I’m being honest, though, Lan Zhan, I really do admire you. You’re way more diligent in your studies than I could ever be.”

            Lan Wangji knew Wei Wuxian was the Jiang Sect’s top disciple and was ranked fourth among all the cultivators in his generation.

            He thought Wei Wuxian was teasing him again while disparaging himself and sighed quietly.

            Wei Wuxian, “Really! You think I’m mocking you, but I’m being serious. I saw you every day in the Library Pavilion. You weren’t just there to make sure I did my work; you were working very hard yourself. Your cultivation is very high, too, meaning you must’ve never slacked off, even as a kid. That’s amazing to me!”

            Lan Wangji glanced at him. Wei Wuxian gave a disarmingly warm smile. Lan Wangji’s gaze faltered before he looked ahead again.

            With a chuckle, Wei Wuxian moved onto the next subject, talking about the first thing he was going to do when he got home—which was namely to eat the spiciest thing he could find on the docks.

            He didn’t seem to be paying any more attention to where he was going than he had been before, so Lan Wangji kept an eye on the path for him.

            By the time they reached the makeshift camp in the woods again, it was late in the afternoon.

            As soon as Lan Xichen saw the state of Wei Wuxian, his eyes widened a little, and he came closer. “Wangji, Wei-Gongzi, what happened? Are you both alright?”

            Lan Wangji greeted him with a respectful salute. “Xiongzhang, we are fine. We encountered bandits on our way back.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “They’re probably taking quick advantage of the crisis to try to catch a few people fleeing.”

            Lan Wangji continued, “Wei Ying used a talisman to temporarily trap them, but we should take them to the local mayor to handle.”

            Lan Xichen smiled, “Well done, both of you.” A disciple was standing by, clearly listening, so Lan Xichen waved him over. “Su She, would you follow Wangji’s directions and deal with this matter quickly?”

            A boy Wei Wuxian couldn’t remember ever seeing before saluted Lan Xichen.

            In all honesty, Wei Wuxian had expected Lan Wangji to lead the four disciples personally back to the area, but he didn’t. He gave them clear directions and then stayed with Wei Wuxian as he got his arm checked out.

            The medic was a rather young, shy boy. He wasn’t too much older than Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. Though he couldn’t have had too much experience, he was clearly very skilled and steady.

            Wei Wuxian smiled broadly as he told him so.

            The compliment took the other boy by surprise, and he flushed tomato red as he stammered his thanks.

            It made Wei Wuxian chuckle. He began to talk about random things to help the medic feel more comfortable.

            After a while, it would have been clear to a casual observer that the medic was rather taken with Wei Wuxian. He smiled and gave genuine, if quiet, laughs at many of the things Wei Wuxian said. More than once, between the stitches and bandages, his eyes caught on Wei Wuxian—his eyes and his smile in particular—and his cheeks flushed more and more richly.

            Of course, Wei Wuxian didn’t notice any of this. He just saw a medic who was shy and wanted to put him at ease.  

            Lan Wangji’s expression was blank, his eyes fixed on the ground with a flicker of an unreadable emotion. His hand increasingly tightened on his sword’s hilt, and his eyebrows twitched.

            Finally, when the medic became even friendlier, he couldn’t take it. He got up and left in silence.

            Wei Wuxian leapt up when he noticed, thanked the medic, and hurried after him. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan! Wait for me. Where are you going?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression was considerably colder than before.

            Wei Wuxian was surprised. “Lan Zhan? What’s wrong?” He tried to think back; had someone approached and said something to him? He hadn’t been paying attention.

            Lan Wangji asked an in icily quiet tone, “Do you flirt with everyone you meet?”

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t expected that, but he laughed, “I haven’t flirted with you, have I?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flicked over to his with another unreadable emotion and then away. He hesitated and then walked faster, as though he never wanted to look at or speak to such a vexing person ever again.

            Wei Wuxian was quick to catch up. “I wasn’t flirting with the medic, either, if that’s what you mean. I’m not interested in men, so why would I flirt with him and lead him on? That’s an awfully cruel thing to do, don’t you think?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t answer for a long time, his face turned away. When he did, all he managed was a harsh but muffled, “…Ridiculous!”

            Wei Wuxian complained, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, won’t you slow down? I’m wounded.”

            Lan Wangji was angry but didn’t ignore him. He stopped walking, glaring at the forest.

            Neither noticed the place they had stopped was close to where Lan Xichen was studying a series of letters.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “You’re always so mad at me. Why would you even care who I flirt with anyway?”

            Lan Wangji, “I do not.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Then why did you ask?”

            Lan Wangji, “Because you do as you please and do not think of the effect your actions have.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Effect? What effect?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened. “Do you really care so little that you have never noticed the effect your words have on people?”

            Wei Wuxian was hopelessly confused. “Of course I care! Who have I affected?”

            Lan Wangji ignored the second part. “If you care, then do not behave as you please.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I was just trying to put him at ease, since he seemed shy.” Thinking back, he supposed some of what he’d said could be construed as flirting. “But how could what I did affect you or anyone else, unless…” His eyes widened with surprise.

            Lan Wangji demanded harshly, “Unless what?”

            Wei Wuxian looked apologetic. He asked quietly, “Do you like him, Lan Zhan? I’m sorry! I didn’t know!”

            Lan Wangji’s earlobes darkened even as his expression grew cold. He stared at Wei Wuxian a moment. “You…” With a flick of his robes, he turned to leave.

            Wei Wuxian caught his arm and pulled him back. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, I really didn’t know you liked him. I—”

            Lan Wangji wrenched his arm away, “I do not.”

            His tone was firm and honest.

            Wei Wuxian, “Then why are you mad at me?”

            Lan Wangji made a concentrated effort to correct his expression. When he turned around, he was the emotionless Lan Er-Gongzi again. “I am not.”

            “Really?”

            “Really.”

            “…Really?”

            Lan Wangji gave him a dry look. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian, “If you’re really not mad, then prove it and come to Lotus Pier!”

            Lan Wangji, “I already said I cannot.”

            Wei Wuxian, “But it’s already so late. You’ll be delayed anyway. You might as well have a meal before you travel wherever you’re going.”

            Lan Xichen hadn’t missed their argument. He cleared his throat quietly and said, “I am afraid Wangji is right, Wei Gongzi.”

            Wei Wuxian jumped a little, shocked Lan Xichen was so close. He supposed he should feel a bit awkward—after all, he had just basically accused Zewu-Jun’s ascetic brother of being a cutsleeve and liking their male medic, and they’d been arguing about flirting for several minutes now—but Lan Wangji didn’t seem embarrassed, so he figured he shouldn’t, either.

            Lan Xichen smiled, “Please forgive us, Wei Gongzi, but we are expected somewhere tonight and cannot be delayed further. We truly appreciate the kind invitation.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Well, maybe next time, right, Lan Zhan? I’ll get you to Lotus Pier one day, even if I have to drag you there, hahaha.”

            Lan Wangji glanced at him. Wei Wuxian’s gaze was open and warm, his smile even more so. Hesitantly, Lan Wangji began, “Do you…”  

            Wei Wuxian tilted his head. “Do I what?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to change his mind. “Nothing.”

            Wei Wuxian gaped, “Lan Zhan, did you know that’s the cruelest thing you can do to a person?! Now I’m dying to know what you were going to say!”

            Lan Wangji, “It was nothing. Xiongzhang, when are we leaving?”

            Lan Xichen glanced up from his letters apologetically. “As soon as possible.”

            Wei Wuxian took the hint. He saluted politely. “Thanks for letting me join Lan Zhan, Zewu-Jun.” He glanced at Lan Wangji and smiled, “Then…I’ll see you later, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t meet his gaze as he nodded once. “Goodbye.”

            Wei Wuxian waved as he backed up. “Say hi to Jiang Cheng for me when you get home!” He turned to leave and then added teasingly, “And the rabbits, hehe.” With that, he took off into the trees, his laughter echoing back to them.

            Lan Wangji watched him go, his earlobes a bit dark. When he was gone, he shook his head faintly.

            Lan Xichen mused, “He has not changed much in the last six months.”

            Lan Wangji, “…How frivolous…”

            But even on the admonition, his voice was soft.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling was watching Wei Wuxian with a raised eyebrow. He leaned against a tree, shaking his head slowly. “He’s going to notice. You’re being dumb.”

            Wei Wuxian had been pacing in front of the tree for almost fifteen minutes. His features were twisted in a grimace, and his back was hunched a little as he visibly favored one leg.

            He hadn’t been off his crutches for long but already he was sweating and breathless. Despite that, he still argued, “What…what are you talking about? It’s hardly noticeable at all.”

            Jin Ling, “Are you serious? You’re obviously in pain. Stop being stupid. Just use your damn crutches. Being stubborn isn’t going to magically fix your bones.”

            Wei Wuxian dismissed the good advice with a wave. “I don’t need the crutches, see?” He straightened his posture and took two brave steps forward with nary a wobble. However, on the third step, pain lanced up his entire body, and he swung forward.

            Jin Ling hurried to catch him. “Ugh, stop it! You’re being dumb! You’ll only make it worse acting like this!” His hands defied his harsh tone as he helped his uncle to the ground. “Stop being such a baby. You hurt your leg. Deal with it.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, here’s the thing. I can’t tell Lan Zhan I hurt my leg, because then he’ll wonder how it happened, and then I’ll have to tell him—and I can’t do that.”

            When Jin Ling frowned, he looked remarkably like Jiang Cheng.   

            He asked dryly, “You don’t think Hanguang-Jun’s going to figure it out on his own?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Nope.”

            Jin Ling, “You think you can hide this from him?”

            Wei Wuxian, “That’s what I said, isn’t it?”

            Jin Ling needed to clarify again, “You think you can keep a broken leg from Hanguang-Jun. Is that what you’re saying?”

            Wei Wuxian, “…Yep!”

            Jin Ling wondered seriously, “Did you hit your head when you fell?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Are you always this rude to your seniors?”

            “You’re obviously limping, and you think he’s not going to notice that?”  

            “Then I won’t limp.”

            “So, what, the crutches are just aesthetic?”

            “Well, I’ll obviously get rid of those. I don’t need them.”

            “You have a giant cast on your leg.”

            “Then I won’t get undressed. He’ll never even see it!”

            Jin Ling raised an eyebrow. “Then what? You’ll sleep on the ground?”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “I’m surprised at you, Jin Ling! You didn’t even blush at the implication.”

            Jin Ling shook his head, unfazed. “You are so, so…so stupid if you genuinely think you can hide something like this from Hanguang-Jun of all people. Your donkey has noticed your injury.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced at Little Apple, who indeed was giving him a long look. It wasn’t even braying or kicking around. It had been on its best behavior since yesterday. “That’s just because I’ve been training it so well.”

            Jin Ling, “No, you haven’t. I know this, because it kicked at me the other day when I tried to give it some grass.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well, that was your fault. I told you it wouldn’t eat any yellow blades.”

            Jin Ling, “You—that isn’t even the point! The point is, you’re being dumb.”

            Wei Wuxian smacked his arm harmlessly, “Is this any way to talk to your superior?”

            Jin Ling, “‘Superior?’ What superior falls off a—”

            Wei Wuxian hurried to cover his mouth. “Ah, ah, ah! What did we say, Jin Ling? We said we would never talk about it ever again! Remember? We made a blood pact and everything.”

            Jin Ling pushed his uncle’s hand away. “You’re so dramatic. How does someone like Hanguang-Jun put up with your nonsense every day?”

            Wei Wuxian, “He seems to find me endearing, unlike some spoiled brats I know.”

            Jin Ling frowned, “What does me thinking you’re an idiot have to do with me being spoiled? Which I’m not, by the way!!”

            Wei Wuxian tried to stand, but a flicker of pain brought him to the ground with a gasp. He fell back in defeat, sprawling his arms out to his sides. Above him, dappled sunlight burst through the branches of the massive tree. It seemed to be taunting him with its cheeriness. “Ugh…how unbearable.”

            Jin Ling, “Just take your medicine, and it won’t hurt anymore.”

            Wei Wuxian, “What, you want to carry me the rest of the way to Lotus Pier? I’ll just pass out if I take the medicine now. You know that.”

            Jin Ling, “Then let’s go to an inn. We’ll go back tomorrow.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed and mumbled, “I want to be home tonight.”

            Jin Ling glanced at him. He realized with a faint blush that when Wei Wuxian said “home” in such a saccharine tone, he didn’t mean the place.

            Jin Ling wasn’t blind to how hard it was for them to be separated, even for a short while. Being a teenager, he thought it was pretty ridiculous to be so attached to someone else, but at night—when he was a bit less critical and a little more sentimental—he had reflected more than once on how they had already spent a lifetime apart; he supposed they didn’t want to waste any more time.

            Despite that deep bond, Wei Wuxian had still followed him all the way out here, because he knew how important it was to Jin Ling.

            Such thoughts made it difficult for Jin Ling to criticize him anymore.

            Of course, Wei Wuxian had no idea what he was ruminating on. After a moment of silence, he added casually, “Ugh, my leg hurts. I blame you for this, A-Ling.”

            Jin Ling knew he wasn’t being serious but still scoffed, “I managed to stay balanced even though the—”

            Wei Wuxian groaned, covered his ears, and rolled over. “Can’t you be nicer to me? I’m injured.”

            Jin Ling, “Which is it, you are or you aren’t?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Around you, I’m injured. So, stop being mean to me. If you tell anyone about what really happened, I’ll tell Lan Jingyi you cried when you got his and A-Yuan’s last letter.”

            Jin Ling’s eyes popped wide. “What the hell?! That’s not even true!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well, that’ll be for you to convince him of, won’t it? Just like it’ll be for me to explain if Hanguang-Jun learns what happened from you.”

            Jin Ling spluttered, “Those…aren’t even remotely the same!!! You actually got hurt! I never—I—you’re so—ugh!” He snatched his sword from where it was leaning against the tree and stormed off. “I’m going home. Have fun walking by yourself. Goodbye.”

            Wei Wuxian scrambled up. He grabbed his crutches and hurried after him. Little Apple trotted along silently. “Wait! Don’t just leave me on the side of the road! At least help me up on Little Apple! Jin Ling! Jin Zongzhu!”

***

Lotus Pier was still wide awake by the time they got back, despite the late hour. The food stalls on the docks still had long lines and busy cooks, and several couples were roaming out on moonlit walks.

            Wei Wuxian wondered idly if Lan Wangji had gone to bed already, but he knew he hadn’t. When he’d left the other day, he had promised to be back before dinner tonight. Since he was late, there was no way Lan Wangji wouldn’t wait up for him.

            Wei Wuxian limped through the somewhat busy streets, leaning heavily on the crutches he’d been forcibly given. They were absurdly uncomfortable. He’d decided after the first hour of using them that he hated them. He really just wanted to lay in bed all day and be pampered.

            Hm…maybe Lan Zhan finding out won’t be the worst thing ever…and it’s not like I actually thought I could keep it from him, but haha, Jin Ling’s expression was too funny when he thought I meant to hide it.

            Jin Ling glanced at Wei Wuxian periodically. He had taken it upon himself to lead his uncle through the streets, as though he needed a guide.

            Despite his words from before, the truth was, Jin Ling felt guilty. Wei Wuxian had only gotten hurt because he had been defending Jin Ling when the boy had rushed into battle unprepared. Wei Wuxian had been in such a hurry to help that he had focused more on Chenqing’s notes than the gravelly terrain. His foot had slipped, and he had rolled clean off a short cliff—a whopping three-foot drop. It shouldn’t have been a big deal, but he had somehow managed to land wrong on his leg.

            Jin Ling had been so frantic with concern that he’d forgotten about the fight and lunged to the ledge, thinking it was much higher than it was.

            But the whole time—from being discovered by Jin Ling and half-carried to the medic in town to now—Wei Wuxian had obviously felt humiliated by the injury. In his past life, Jin Ling gathered that Wei Wuxian’s body had been strong enough to handle such things; judging from several comments Wei Wuxian had made under his breath, Mo Xuanyu’s body was a bit more delicate, which meant he got hurt a bit more easily—a fact Wei Wuxian hated and tried to hide.

            So, of course, Jin Ling would never go back on his word. Though he thought Wei Wuxian was being a baby about the whole thing, he wouldn’t tell Hanguang-Jun or anyone else exactly what had happened.

            Behind Jin Ling, Wei Wuxian stopped in the middle of the street. He sniffed the air with unnecessary emphasis and called, “Jin Ling, Jin Ling! Get me one of those buns, would you?”

            Jin Ling turned around. “We already ate.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Walking on crutches takes so much more energy than your young, able legs. Show your senior some mercy, won’t you?”

            Jin Ling sighed heavily. “You’re so dramatic.” But he turned to the stall and bought a bun. “Here, take it and stop talking my ear off.”

            Wei Wuxian flicked his forehead as he took the paper sleeve. “You’re a brat, you know that?”

            Jin Ling, “And you’re annoying.”

            Wei Wuxian bit into the bun and groaned in appreciation. He finished the whole thing in just three bites.

            Jin Ling watched with open disgust. “Do you eat like that in front of Hanguang-Jun?”

            Through a mouthful, Wei Wuxian managed, “Nope. I save it for you.”

            Jin Ling shook his head in an effort to erase the memory. “Fine, you’ve eaten. Can we keep going? I want to get a bath before bed.”

            Wei Wuxian agreed, “Mm, you need it.”

            Jin Ling, “You—!”

            Wei Wuxian cringed, “Ah! I’m injured! Go easy on me, Jin Zongzhu!”

            With a huff, Jin Ling crossed his arms. “I thought it was a big secret. Now you’re screaming it in the middle of the street?”

            Touching his chin, Wei Wuxian mused, “Well, I thought it over, and you’re right. I can’t very well hide it from Hanguang-Jun. Might as well use it.”

            Jin Ling muttered, “Something tells me Hanguang-Jun’s going to be very busy soon.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “You have no idea…”

            Jin Ling made a face and blushed. “Ugh! Why do you always have to do that?! Can’t you just be decent for once?!”

            Wei Wuxian was quick to defend himself. “I didn’t even say anything! Why, what did you think I meant?”

            Jin Ling, “Stop getting so carried away all the time! You’re so shameless! Ugh, I don’t want to talk to you anymore. Will you take your medicine tonight or not?”

            The question was flung out at the end of his complaint, as though to catch Wei Wuxian off guard.

            He chuckled, “Yes, yes. Before I go to bed…if I remember, that is.”

            Jin Ling’s scowl returned. “I’ll tell Hanguang-Jun if you don’t take proper care of yourself.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Oh? Is that concern I hear from Jin Zongzhu? Are you worried about me now?”

            Jin Ling huffed, “Of course not! I don’t care what you do. I just don’t want to hear you complaining anymore, that’s all…”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm. Well, don’t let it keep you up all night. I’m fine; it’s really not a big deal.”

            Jin Ling, “I don’t care either way.”

            But he stayed close to his uncle as they continued walking.

            He had a theory about Wei Wuxian, something he had put together from all the information he had. He felt certain that the more severe the injury, the less serious Wei Wuxian took it. If it were a mere papercut, he’d roll on the ground and beg for sympathy, but for something as serious as a broken leg, he would pretend it was nothing.

            The idea made Jin Ling even more worried. If he was acting so casual now, how much pain was he really in?

            By the time they reached the door to the guest room, Wei Wuxian felt breathless. The exertion had made him a bit tired, but even worse was the state of his muscles. The crutches had been digging into his underarms, so they were sore; his other leg felt stiff from balancing his weight all day, so that was sore; and his back had knots in it from the uncomfortable way he’d slept the past couple nights, so that was also sore! It was unbearably annoying.

            He hesitated outside the door, wondering if he looked as bad as he felt. He swiftly brushed his hair behind his ears in an attempt to tidy up, ignoring the emphatic way Jin Ling rolled his eyes.

            When Wei Wuxian slid the door open, he saw that, sure enough, Lan Wangji had waited up for him. He was sitting on one side of the room, deep in meditation.

            The sight of him sent Wei Wuxian’s heart flipping and soaring.

            The candles in the room were low, meaning he must have entered meditation hours ago. The soft, warm light threw shadows over him, making him appear ethereal. The window behind him was open, letting in the moonlight.

            His expression was peaceful, his position proper. Some of his hair fell over one shoulder, pooling on the floor beside him as his forehead ribbon fluttered in a light breeze.

            He was so beautiful, it almost hurt. Wei Wuxian had only been gone a few days, but it somehow felt like weeks since he’d last seen him.

            For a second, he forgot about his leg. He wanted to run across the room, throw himself over Lan Wangji, and kiss him until neither of them could breathe—but he recoiled on the first step. A jolting pain rocked through him for his careless excitement, and he hissed, reaching for the doorframe at the same time that Jin Ling caught his arm.

            The soft sound was more than enough to have Lan Wangji’s eyes flashing open. For a single second, warmth filled them for the man standing in the doorway, but then his gaze caught on the crutches.

            At once, he came over. “Wei Ying? What happened?” He steadied Wei Wuxian with a hand on his waist, looking worriedly at the leg he deliberately kept off the ground now.

            Wei Wuxian grinned radiantly through the pain, unable to take his eyes off Hanguang-Jun. “Don’t worry, it’s nothing, it’s nothing. Just a tiny fracture. Medic said I’ll be running around again next week!”

            Jin Ling dropped his arm with a scowl. “No, she didn’t. She said it would take at least three months, since the break was so—”

            Wei Wuxian slid the door shut between them. “Okay, thank you, Jin Ling, goodbye!”

            Jin Ling shouted an annoyed, “You—!” before he stormed off.

            Lan Wangji, “Three months? Since the break was so what?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled at him, holding his arm for balance. “I’m fine, Lan Zhan. Really. Just a little sore.”

            Without another word, Lan Wangji leaned closer. He lifted Wei Wuxian off the floor in one smooth motion.

            Wei Wuxian yelped as he caught Lan Wangji’s shoulders. “Warning, Lan Zhan!!! How many times do I have to tell you?!” But he laughed through the reprimand. He somehow felt more relaxed now. He hugged Lan Wangji’s neck, closing his eyes as he was carried across the room.

            Lan Wangji set him on the bed carefully and then kneeled before him on the floor. He pushed Wei Wuxian’s robes aside and eased off an oversized, unfamiliar boot with slow movements.

            Despite his best efforts to be gentle, Wei Wuxian still gasped and hissed. His fingers dug into Lan Wangji’s shoulder. “Ah…L-Lan Zhan, careful…”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flicked up to his, and he moved impossibly slower. His touch became feather light. 

            Removing the boot revealed a thick cast. It encased Wei Wuxian’s foot, starting at his toes, and ran up his leg to just under his knee. Mottling the skin around his knee was a deep, purplish bruise, indicating the break was worse than he played it off to be.

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows pulled together. He looked up again, offering an expression that Wei Wuxian could only describe as endearingly concerned.

            Wei Wuxian melted under it. “Lan Zhan~, aiyo…I’m okay, really. It just looks bad.”

            Lan Wangji, “What happened, Wei Ying?” His voice was immeasurably soft on the name.

            Wei Wuxian dodged the question with a pout. “I’ve been back all this time, and you haven’t even greeted me properly…”    

            It was an obvious ruse, but Lan Wangji wasn’t one to ignore such tactics.

            He rose on his knees slowly to reach him. His fingers drifted across Wei Wuxian’s cheek reverently enough to leave a blush in their wake. His nose brushed against Wei Wuxian’s as he parted his lips and closed the distance between them.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart did a somersault in his chest.

            The kiss was tender and sweet—until it wasn’t. Wei Wuxian was quick to deepen it. He really had missed Lan Wangji too much. Spoiled every day with his touches, kisses, words, and everything else, it was difficult to spend any amount of time apart.

            He took Lan Wangji’s lower lip between his teeth, biting it softly before their tongues entangled. A soft breath escaped him, and his fingers captured one end of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon.

            When they parted a long moment later, Lan Wangji leaned against Wei Wuxian’s forehead. “Missed you.”

            Their noses brushed together softly when Wei Wuxian nodded. “Me too, Lan Zhan. So much.”

            Lan Wangji’s hand drifted to the thigh of his injured leg. “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian gave another nod. “Promise. It’s really not a big deal. More embarrassing than anything…” He pulled back a little with a broad grin. “But if you want to take care of me all night, I don’t mind.”

            Lan Wangji’s expression softened with a smile. His thumb ran a gentle line under Wei Wuxian’s lower lip. “What would you like?”

            Wei Wuxian perked up. “Mm…a bath for starters, I think. Join me?”

            Lan Wangji gave him a deeply affectionate look. “Your cast cannot get wet. I will help you instead.”

            Wei Wuxian made a show of considering the compromise. This meant Lan Wangji would stay on the wrong side of the tub, but it also meant Wei Wuxian wouldn’t have to do any work. “Hm, okay! After…?”

            Lan Wangji kissed him again—first his lips, then his cheek, and finally his forehead. “Anything, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Hehe, what a dangerous answer.”

            The soft laugh earned another gentle brush of Lan Wangji’s lips. His thumb arced across Wei Wuxian’s cheek, and then he stood.

            While he prepared the water for the bath, Wei Wuxian ridded himself of his dusty clothes. He was in such a hurry to get into the tub that he moved carelessly. His cast knocked against the floor, earning a wild flash of pain. It rocked clear up his spine, and he bit his lip to keep silent.

            Lan Wangji noticed anyway. “Medicine?”

            Wei Wuxian reached into his robe and pulled out a small pouch. He tossed it on the table near the bed. “But I don’t want to take it yet. I took it last night, and it made me all groggy. I even fell asleep during dinner! That won’t do for my first night back, hehe.”

            Lan Wangji, “If you are in pain, you must take—”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Lan Zhan, do I seem crazy to you? If it hurt that much, of course I’d take the medicine. But it doesn’t hurt! The only thing that hurts is my back and leg from sleeping poorly without you…maybe Lan Zhan will give me a massage after the bath?”

            Lan Wangji had finished pouring the last bucket of steaming water into the tub. He gave Wei Wuxian a soft look as he came over and agreed with a quiet, “Mm.” He picked him up with care once more.

            Wei Wuxian held Lan Wangji’s cheek as he was carried, brushing his nose against his jaw with closed eyes. The subtle scent of sandalwood surrounded him, and he leaned impossibly closer with a soft hum. He’d once thought the scent was cold and austere, but now it pulled at his heart.

            Quietly, he murmured, “Mm…missed you so much, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji paused by the tub. He heard the weight in Wei Wuxian’s tone and pressed their lips together, returning the sentiment through action, as always.        

            After a moment, he carefully lowered Wei Wuxian into the tub, mindful of the cast.

            Wei Wuxian managed to dangle his leg over the edge with a muffled, “Ow.”

            The ow referred more to the way the angle pulled at his thigh muscles than the break, but it couldn’t be helped.

            Despite that, the hot water felt almost glorious. It helped him relax, and he sighed in relief.

            Lan Wangji shed his outer robe and knelt by the tub, rolling up his sleeves. He reached for the soap and began to rub Wei Wuxian’s shoulders in gentle, circular motions.

            Wei Wuxian gave a satisfied hum. “Feels good, Lan Zhan.” So good, in fact, that goosebumps rose across his arms.

            His eyes were closed, so he missed the way Lan Wangji smiled.

            With tenderness, Lan Wangji ran the cloth along Wei Wuxian’s arms, back, and chest before he moved lower on his stomach.

            Eyes still closed, Wei Wuxian teased, “Mm, you missed a spot, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together. “Do not misbehave.”

            The delighted little laugh that broke from Wei Wuxian’s chest made Lan Wangji’s expression soften even more.

            He reached for the red ribbon in Wei Wuxian’s hair, pulling it free. He used the tub’s spoon to wet the long, dark strands, then reached for the soap again.

            Wei Wuxian made many noises of appreciation as Lan Wangji’s fingers worked. “You’ve gotten better at that, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. I am glad.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed languidly.

            After a moment, Lan Wangji picked up the spoon again to rinse the soap. “Keep your eyes closed, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart always skipped a beat at the tender way his name curled off Lan Wangji’s tongue. Didn’t matter how many times he’d heard it; it always had the same effect.

            The water began to get cold after half an hour, and then Wei Wuxian was helped out of the tub and dried off. Lan Wangji brought him fresh clothes on the bed, which Wei Wuxian pulled on slowly.

            He teased, “I don’t think I’ll be needing these, but I’ll humor you, Lan Zhan.”

            Honestly, the comment didn’t deserve the adoring look Lan Wangji gave him before he kissed him. He brought Wei Wuxian’s hair over his shoulder to continue drying it. “How did it go?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well! Jin Ling has improved even more since last time. He’s been working hard, though he doesn’t want anyone to know that. I think he thinks he has to prove himself, since he’s the leader of the Jin Sect now…” He let that hang in the air a moment and then added, voice full of sympathy, “What about you, Lan Zhan? How did you survive without me?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to find his tone equal parts amusing and endearing, if the way his fingers trailed across Wei Wuxian’s cheek was any indication. “Shufu sent a letter.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh? How’s everything at the Cloud Recesses? No troubles, right?”

            Lan Wangji nodded. “It was the usual report. Everything is fine.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Did he mention your brother or A-Yuan?”

            Lan Wangji, “Xiongzhang is still in secluded meditation. Sizhui has made more progress with Inquiry.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “That’s great! We’ll have to visit soon and see for ourselves.”

            Lan Wangji nodded in agreement. He hadn’t forgotten Wei Wuxian’s other request. When he finished drying his hair, he murmured, “Lie down.”        

            Wei Wuxian perked up. “Okay!” He hurried to undo his inner robe and pull it off, leaving his torso bare. Eagerly but carefully, he rolled onto his stomach and rested his chin on his arms.

            Lan Wangji placed a pillow under Wei Wuxian’s cast and sat beside him on the bed. “Let me know if it is too hard.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded. His eyes fell closed when long, slender fingers began to press into the muscles on his shoulders. A soft moan slipped out. “Mm, feels good, Lan Zhan…so good at that…”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze softened as he continued.

            He worked diligently, starting at the base of Wei Wuxian’s neck and gradually moving lower. He stopped whenever he found a knot and lingered until it loosened.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t bother keeping his sounds to himself, utterly blissed out. Gasps and moans alike fell from him undeterred.

            Whenever Lan Wangji gave him a massage, one of two things invariably happened: Either Wei Wuxian fell asleep in the middle of it, or, as was more often the case, he got incredibly turned on.

            After spending a few days away from his Hanguang-Jun, tonight was definitely the latter.

            His noises didn’t help at all. They were nearly the same ones he offered when Lan Wangji fucked him, and he started to wonder if he was getting to Lan Wangji, if Lan Wangji had already started to respond to them. That thought turned him on even more.

            Eventually, his sounds became deliberately exaggerated, clearly teasing.

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned. “Mm?”

            Lan Wangji, “…Do not be so loud.”

            He snickered in response, “I can’t help it, Lan Zhan. You make me feel so good. What’s wrong? Am I turning you on?”

            Lan Wangji pressed his lips together. “Do you want me to stop?”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes sprang open. “No, no, no, please, I’m sorry, I won’t be loud. I’ll be good, I’ll be good.”

            Lan Wangji continued in silence.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes fluttered closed again. He moved his head to rest his cheek on his arms. He wanted Lan Wangji, but he wanted to finish this first. His back really had been bothering him. “Mm…bit harder, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji, “I do not want to hurt you.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Mm, you won’t. I can take it. Just a bit harder. Feels so good.”

            Lan Wangji complied. He added a bit more pressure, rolling his thumbs into another knot near Wei Wuxian’s neck.

            A low whine slipped through the silence of the room. Subtly, Wei Wuxian’s hips shifted. “Mm…Lan Zhan?”

            “Mm?”

            “Can you go a bit lower?”

            Lan Wangji moved his hands halfway down his back. “Here?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Lower…bit lower…ah, there, there, there.” The small of his back had been hurting since last night.

            Lan Wangji worked against the muscle there, careful with how hard he pressed.

            Wei Wuxian dropped his forehead to the bed with a groan. The pain faded bit by bit, leaving him almost completely limp and relaxed. Almost, if not for another part of him which was decidedly the opposite.

            Lan Wangji continued lower, fingers trailing his waist.

            Wei Wuxian’s mind grew fuzzier as another need outweighed his relief. Blood rushed south, limiting his focus to one thing now. His body was especially sensitive in this lifetime, which was a blessing in this case. Lan Wangji hadn’t even gone near his length, and he was already aching.

            Lan Wangji moved to the thigh of Wei Wuxian’s good leg.

            As soon as he began to massage him there, though, Wei Wuxian’s moans grew breathless. Even with his trousers preventing true contact, the touch sent an inferno charging down his spine. They both knew intimately how sensitive his thighs were.

            Wei Wuxian’s length pulsed, tortured in its confinement. He gripped the blanket in one hand and arched his back a little, grinding slowly against the bed with a soft whine.

            Lan Wangji swallowed quietly as he continued. His eyes tracked the roll of his hips before lifting to where Wei Wuxian’s face was pressed against his arm. His eyebrows had drawn together, his lips parted with his moans. A flush had begun to spread across his cheeks.

            He breathed, “L-Lan Zhan…ah, f-feels, hngh, feels so good, fuck…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers rose a little, kneading into the most sensitive part of his thigh.

            Wei Wuxian’s hips stuttered. His fingers tightened in the blanket with a choked moan. His pace grew frantic for a second before he couldn’t take it anymore. He rolled onto his hip, pulling Lan Wangji’s collar to bring him closer.

            The kiss was messy from the start. Wei Wuxian was too worked up to be graceful. He licked his way into Lan Wangji’s mouth with a whine.

            Lan Wangji met him with the same urgency, kneeling up over Wei Wuxian. He helped him shift onto his back and then worked a leg between both of Wei Wuxian’s to give him something to grind against. Wei Wuxian whimpered and set a quick pace, grasping at Lan Wangji’s clothes.

            After a moment, Lan Wangji reached between them, lowering Wei Wuxian’s trousers only enough to free his length. He brushed his fingers against the back of it, feeling the way it twitched at the contact.

            Wei Wuxian shuddered, a broken sound leaking from his throat. He pulled from the kiss to stare hazily at how Lan Wangji’s fingers looked encircling him. He barely got to appreciate it before his eyes were fluttering shut and his head was falling back.

            Lan Wangji kissed down his jaw, biting and licking at his neck as he entered into a languid rhythm.

            He had barely managed three strokes before Wei Wuxian felt himself get too close too fast. He gasped and panted, “W-wait, wait, Lan Zhan, I—”

            Lan Wangji slowed his hand. His voice was low and breathless in Wei Wuxian’s ear. “Let me take care of you, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian gave a full-body shudder. He groaned, bit his lip, and nodded. “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji resumed his pace. His thumb swept across the tip, catching a pearl of fluid.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered. His hips twitched and thrusted up into Lan Wangji’s fist, chasing the feeling with a blinding urgency now. He clutched Lan Wangji’s arms as his breaths grew shallower. He began to ramble, “Lan…Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, hngh, f-feels so…haa, you feel so fucking good…fuck…please, please…so close…” Close but not quite there. His moans began to sound downright desperate. “Lan Zhan, please, please, let me…I need…Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s breaths beat against his skin. “What do you need, Wei Ying?”

            Wei Wuxian was shaking at this point. “F-faster, Lan Zhan, please, fuck, I can’t—I want—need you, please, haa, please—”

            Lan Wangji kissed him hard, groaning softly at how wrecked he sounded after so little. He quickened his pace as his other hand pulled into a fist in the blanket. He loved every single sound Wei Wuxian made. His own eyebrows drew together as Wei Wuxian’s moans hitched.

            It all became too much. White-hot pleasure rushed up Wei Wuxian’s spine. He arched up, rolling his head back as he broke from the kiss. A low, breathless chant of Lan Wangji’s name leaked from his throat, his body writhing.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze drunkenly watched his expression contort, feeling the way Wei Wuxian’s length pulsed in his hand.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered, his lips parted as Lan Wangji stroked him through it. This orgasm hit especially hard—perhaps because of the massage, perhaps because his body was used to more regular releases and it had been a few days. His vision blacked out with it, and his head grew fuzzy. His hips continued to meet Lan Wangji’s fist weakly, chasing the very last vestiges of the feeling, and then he collapsed.

            Lan Wangji gave a quiet moan of his own, kissing Wei Wuxian’s neck languidly as he helped him come down. When Wei Wuxian grew limp, he used a cloth to clean him up and them rolled off him. He lay on his side, gaze adoring as he admired Wei Wuxian’s blissed-out expression.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes opened slowly, and he gazed up unseeingly. His chest heaved with his breaths.

            It took him a moment to regain a little clarity, and then he looked over and moaned, “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched with a soft smile. He leaned forward to kiss him, the motion deceptively tender, considering that his own need—which he had ignored so far—must be aching after such a display.

            Wei Wuxian wouldn’t allow such an injustice. He hummed into the kiss, dirtying it swiftly with renewed hunger, this time for Lan Wangji’s release. Lan Wangji matched his movements, gasping softly as he cupped Wei Wuxian’s cheek.

            Wei Wuxian shifted and climbed over him, kneeling on either side of his waist, but he had long-since forgotten about his leg. He moved thoughtlessly, and the toe of his cast tapped against the bed. It was only a light hit, but pain lanced up his body. He broke from Lan Wangji with a strangled hiss.

            Lan Wangji immediately rolled them over. Gently, he lowered Wei Wuxian’s leg to the pillow again. “Are you okay?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, “Kiss it better?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. “Shameless.”

            Wei Wuxian’s laugh was cut off with the next searing kiss. The pain in his leg faded into the back of his mind, overwhelmed with the thrum of heat in his veins. He hitched his good leg around Lan Wangji’s waist, pulling their hips together.

            Lan Wangji grunted very softly at the friction. His hand moved to clasp Wei Wuxian’s thigh tightly before his fingers roamed around his leg and up his backside to reach the small of his back. Using the leverage, he grinded into him again, eyebrows drawing together faintly.

            Wei Wuxian moaned. He had started out a bit sensitive, but that was quickly outmatched by the way Lan Wangji felt and sounded and tasted.

            Lan Wangji caught one of Wei Wuxian’s hands, interlacing their fingers. He lifted his head to admire Wei Wuxian, his own gaze heavy and wanting. He repeated softly, “Missed you.”

            Wei Wuxian’s answering smile was playful. “Show me.”

            When their lips pressed together again, Wei Wuxian forgot about everything else.  

Chapter Text

It was still early in the morning when Jin Ling came through Sword Hall from his room.

            Jiang Cheng was polishing his blade near the front of the hall and glanced up when he heard his nephew’s quick steps. “Where are you going?”

            Jin Ling stopped. “To see Wei Wuxian.”

            Jiang Cheng made a face and returned to his work. “It’s still early, A-Ling. You know he sleeps late.”

            Jin Ling, “Well…I won’t wake him. I’ll just see if he’s already up and come back if he’s not.”

            Of course, Jiang Cheng knew about Wei Wuxian’s leg. He didn’t know what had happened, precisely, since Jin Ling had refused to give any details when he’d told him about it. “You said the medicine he was given made him drowsy.”

            Jin Ling nodded, recalling how his other uncle had fallen asleep at dinner the other night. He’d had to half-carry, half-drag Wei Wuxian to his room.

            Jiang Cheng, “Then don’t you think you should let him rest?”

            Jin Ling still argued, “I’ll be quiet, Jiujiu. If he’s up, I just want to…” He trailed off, glancing away.

            Jiang Cheng looked up again. He read the guilt in Jin Ling’s eyes and narrowed his own. “Did you push him?”

            Jin Ling almost choked on his own saliva. “What? No! Of course not!”

            Jiang Cheng went back to his work. “Did you trick him? Lie to him? Force him to do something you knew was beyond his capabilities?”

            Jin Ling, “No…?”

            Jiang Cheng, “Then it’s not your fault. Don’t waste time blaming yourself. He’s a grown man who makes his own choices. The last thing he wants is you beating yourself up over it.”

            Jin Ling frowned and crossed his arms defensively. “I don’t feel guilty. I just want to…check on him.”

            Jiang Cheng sighed, “You’re far too stubborn for your own good. I say no, you do it anyway. Fine. Then take this if you’re going.” He reached for something on the table beside him and tossed it across the room.        

            Jin Ling caught it instinctively. It was a fist-sized pouch filled nearly to the brim with lotus seeds. He tightened the drawstrings and glanced at his uncle. “You just had that waiting there? Did you know I was gonna go? …Were you gonna go?”

            Jiang Cheng, “Are you going or not? If not, then head to the training field. You still have a lot of work to do.”

            Jin Ling, “I’m going.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Fine. Don’t overstay your welcome.”

            Jin Ling scoffed quietly. “Sure, Jiujiu.” With that, he stormed out of Sword Hall.

            The streets were busy again as he made his way to the guest rooms. He hesitated outside the door and leaned in closer. If he heard voices, he’d knock. If it was quiet, he’d go back.

            At first, he thought Wei Wuxian must have been asleep, because it was indeed silent inside the room. But right when he was about to turn around, he heard Wei Wuxian burst with a pfft and laugh loudly at something Lan Wangji must have said.

            Which was honestly a bit of a shock to Jin Ling. He’d never heard Hanguang-Jun make a joke before. Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui had certainly never indicated such a thing, either.

            …Unless Wei Wuxian had made himself laugh, which Jin Ling actually felt made a bit more sense. It definitely wouldn’t have been the first time.

            He raised a hand to knock, but it froze in midair. If they were laughing and talking this early in the morning, was it rude to knock? Would he be intruding?

            He lowered his hand.

            But just as he turned to leave, he hesitated again. He really did want to check on his uncle, so he lifted his hand to knock.

            But he’d already taken Wei Wuxian away from Hanguang-Jun for two days, so maybe it would be rude to interrupt their morning. He lowered his hand.

            Inside, Wei Wuxian mused, “Anyway, you’re right, Hanguang-Jun. Jin Ling really is a brat. I’m surprised you’d say such a thing, but it is indeed the truth.”

            Jin Ling huffed. “If you knew I was here, why didn’t you just tell me to come in?!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ah! Jin Ling?!”

            Jin Ling grumbled, “Can I come in or not?”          

            Wei Wuxian, “Hanguang-Jun, are you decent? Okay, Hanguang-Jun’s decent; come on in.”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes hard and slid the door open. Sunlight streamed into the room with his entrance. He looked up and blushed a bit when he saw Hanguang-Jun and Wei Wuxian. The latter was propped against the former’s chest, his cast balanced on a stack of pillows Hanguang-Jun must have hunted for in the night.

            Lan Wangji’s arms were laced around Wei Wuxian, holding him as they’d talked. Neither saw any reason to part from one another at his arrival, which made Jin Ling feel almost unexplainably happy—if a little embarrassed. If he tried to place a reason on it, he supposed it would have made him feel like a stranger or an intruder if they’d separated.

            He closed the door again, eyes fixed on Wei Wuxian’s leg as he edged closer. “How, um…” He cleared his throat. “Does it…hurt?”

            Wei Wuxian considered him with an amused expression before crying, “So much. I can barely even think straight for the pain. L-Lan Zhan…is it really Jin Ling at the door, or am I just hallucinating again?”

            Jin Ling gave the ceiling a long sigh and then threw the drawstring pouch at him, aiming for his chest. “Why do I even talk to you…”

            Wei Wuxian let the pouch hit him and then picked it up. “Oh? What’s this…” He pulled the strings open to find dozens and dozens of creamy, pale seeds. With a delighted gasp, he pulled one out and crunched on it. “Is it poisoned?”

            Jin Ling, “Yep.”

            Wei Wuxian shrugged, “Worth it.” He ate another with a happy hum. “Mm, they’re so fresh. Did you spend all night peeling them? They don’t taste this good off a food stand.”

            Jin Ling replied honestly, “They’re from Jiujiu.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced up in surprise before he snorted, “What a punk. Went to all that trouble and didn’t even bother to give them to me himself, huh? Tell him he’s a punk for me, will you?”

            Jin Ling crossed his arms. “You say he went to a lot of trouble, and you don’t even want me to thank him for you?”

            Wei Wuxian’s head was resting against Lan Wangji’s shoulder lazily, so when he shook it, the motion seemed especially languid. “Who would believe that? No, he’s a punk; I haven’t told him enough yet.”

            Jin Ling scoffed and came a little closer. He didn’t really know what to do with his hands, so he kept his arms crossed. His eyes drifted to the cast again, wondering if his knee was still a dark, angry purple.

            Wei Wuxian lifted a seed to Lan Wangji’s mouth, grinning delightedly when Lan Wangji accepted it. “Want some, A-Ling?”

            Jin Ling, “No, thanks. I don’t like them.”

            Wei Wuxian choked. He made a show of beating his chest. “Sorry, I misheard you.”

            Jin Ling rolled his eyes up to the ceiling for the hundredth time since he’d entered. “Why are you so dramatic all the time?”

            Wei Wuxian, “You mean I didn’t mishear?! How can you not like them? Have you ever had one?”

            Jin Ling shrugged, “Yeah. I just don’t like them.”

            Wei Wuxian lamented, “How can this be?!”

            Jin Ling finally cracked a smile. “Get over it.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I can’t. This is a greater hit than breaking my leg.” He lifted another seed to Lan Wangji’s lips and then ate one himself.

            Jin Ling glanced at the table near the back of the room where they ate their meals. It was clear of any dishes. “Did you…eat? Are you hungry?”

            Wei Wuxian answered as he chewed, “Hanguang-Jun said I didn’t deserve to eat today.”

            Jin Ling groaned, “Just—yes or no?”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Yes, yes, yes. We ate earlier. You’re off the hook.”

            Jin Ling, “Earlier? It’s so early already. When did you wake up?”

            Wei Wuxian offered a seed to Lan Wangji. “Five.”

            Jin Ling blinked. He never woke up that early. Was he in pain? Did the pain wake him up?

            Wei Wuxian read his expression with a glance. “You didn’t heard any cries of agony or anything at around that time, did you? I was trying not to wake you.”

            Jin Ling honestly had never wanted to smack someone so much before. “You are…the most annoying person I have ever known. Do you take anything seriously?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, glancing at Lan Wangji as he continued to lean on his shoulder. “I don’t know. Do I, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. “Rarely.”

            Wei Wuxian giggled, “Well said!”

            Jin Ling crossed his arms, “Fine. Make this as difficult as possible, then.” He sighed and glanced around. “Well…do you want anything? Are you, um…bored? Do you want a-a game or something?” He almost cringed at how childish that sounded. “I have a few in my room from when I was a kid…”

            Wei Wuxian played along. “What kinds?”

            Jin Ling had thought his uncle would laugh at him. With the encouragement, he eagerly listed them and perched on the edge of the bed.       

            Wei Wuxian nodded thoughtfully when he was finished. “Hmm, what sounds good, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji gazed at him with obvious adoration, his eyes shifting between Wei Wuxian’s like they were the only two in the room. Jin Ling’s cheeks darkened. He meant to look away, but his own eyes seemed to be stuck. He’d never seen someone give anyone such a gentle, loving look. A year ago, he certainly never would have expected to see such an expression from the intimidating and emotionless Hanguang-Jun.

            Lan Wangji, “Whatever you want, Wei Ying.”

            Jin Ling finally glanced away. Wei Wuxian hadn’t been exaggerating; Hanguang-Jun was even more doting than usual.

            He suddenly remembered that at this time of day, Lan Wangji was usually meditating, but he had skipped today to stay in bed with Wei Wuxian—

            The same bed Jin Ling had presumptuously sat on.

            He got up casually, wary of intruding more than he already had.

            Wei Wuxian tapped his chin. “Hm, if that’s the case…then the second one you mentioned, A-Ling.”

            Jin Ling nodded. “Alright! I’ll be right back!” He left quickly, jogging as soon as he was back in the yard.   

            Wei Wuxian ate a few more lotus seeds. “Think he’ll stop feeling guilty after this?”

            Lan Wangji lowered his head, resting his chin on Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “Probably not.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed reflectively as he chewed. He turned his head and offered another seed to Lan Wangji. When it was accepted again, he felt endlessly delighted. He grinned with a quiet hehe laugh that made Lan Wangji close his eyes and hug him a bit tighter.

            Wei Wuxian managed to finish half the bag before Jin Ling returned, breathlessly carrying a small board and a sack of game pieces.

            He gestured to a table across the room. “Drag that over so we can play. Which color do you want?”

            Jin Ling seemed surprised. His eyes flitted to Lan Wangji, whose chin was still resting on Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “You want to play with me?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well, Hanguang-Jun’s far too comfy, so I told him he’s not allowed to move for the whole day. You’re my second-best option.”

            Jin Ling knew he was kidding but played along with a scoff, “Wow, thanks.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered. “You’re welcome. Hurry, hurry! My leg might start to hurt again if I get too bored.”

            Jin Ling immediately sighed. He grabbed the table and dragged it over with unnecessary force. “Why do you always have to mock me?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “I’m not, I’m not. Come, come, come, don’t be angry, Jin Zongzhu. Let’s play!”

            Jin Ling sat on the bed opposite Wei Wuxian and Hanguang-Jun and set up the board. “You know how to play?”

            Wei Wuxian repeated incredulously, “Do I know how to play? Do I know how to play?! What kind of question is that?! The real question is, do you know how to play?”

            Jin Ling, “Obviously. It’s my game.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Good, because I don’t know how to play. Tell me the rules.”

            Jin Ling was shocked to see Lan Wangji’s lips spread into a soft smile. He’d thought Hanguang-Jun wasn’t paying attention at all.

            Jin Lin explained the rules in detail, and then they began.

            Lan Wangji lifted his head when the game started, watching with a blank expression.

            Given that he said he didn’t know the rules, Wei Wuxian had a rough start to the game. He lost four of their five games, the fifth of which Jin Ling relegated to pure luck.

            Jiang Cheng had arrived sometime during the third game.

            He had meant to knock, but he’d heard his nephew laughing harder than he had in a long time. The sound had made him freeze outside the door. After a while, he’d moved to lean against the wall, listening to Wei Wuxian and Jin Ling bicker back and forth. The sound was familiar enough to pull at Jiang Cheng’s heartstrings, despite his hard expression.

            When they started a sixth game, he pushed off the wall to leave.

            He only made it a few steps before Wei Wuxian mused, “It’s rude to eavesdrop, you know.”

           Jiang Cheng sighed quietly and turned around. He slid the door open and entered. His brow twitched a little when he saw the way Wei Wuxian was embraced by Lan Wangji. He still hadn’t gotten used to such displays of affection.

            He directed his attention instead to Wei Wuxian’s leg and the thumb of his right hand. “Giving me a lesson in manners? You’re the one hustling my nephew.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Does it count as hustling if there’s no money involved?”

            Jin Ling looked up sharply. “Hustling? What do you mean?”

            Jiang Cheng, “We played this game every other day as kids before we started focusing on cultivation.”

            Jin Ling whipped around to gape at Wei Wuxian. “You let me win?!”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head, appearing completely innocent. “Of course not! Don’t listen to your uncle. He’s crazy.”

            Jin Ling cleared the board angrily. “Play me for real!”

            Wei Wuxian stared in horror at the pieces scattering over the bed. “Hey! You brat, I had a good turn coming up!”

            Jin Ling divided the pieces again. “We’re starting over. Play me for real!”

            Jiang Cheng, “A-Ling, you’ve been here for hours. Let him rest.”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “I don’t need to rest; I need to play this brat again. I can’t believe you knocked the board over! I was going to win that time for sure…”

            Jiang Cheng crossed the room and picked up a small pouch off the bedside table. “Is this your medicine?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded disinterestedly, more focused on setting up his pieces.

            Jiang Cheng threw it at him rather hard. It was intercepted by Lan Wangji before it could hit Wei Wuxian.

            Jiang Cheng ordered, “Take it.”

            Wei Wuxian was too busy to look up. “Later. I don’t need it right now.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I grew up dealing with your nonsense. I can tell when you’re in pain.”

            Lan Wangji and Jin Ling both looked sharply at Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian in turn stared at Jiang Cheng. “Ah? What are you talking about? I’m not in any—”

            Jiang Cheng, “You want me to prove it? Fine. You pick at your thumbnail with you’re in pain and too stubborn to take anything for it. Thought I never noticed?”

            Wei Wuxian tucked his thumb into his palm. “…Punk.”     

            Jin Ling jumped upright so fast that the board knocked over again. “Did you not take your medicine because we were playing?!”

            Wei Wuxian sighed heavily, leaning against Lan Wangji. “I didn’t take it because it’s not a big deal. I don’t want to sleep yet. Let’s play another game.”

            Lan Wangji was already unlacing the pouch. He pulled out two pills. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “Lan Zhan, it’s not that bad, really. I don’t want to take it yet.”

            Lan Wangji, “Please.”

            Wei Wuxian froze and then sighed as he took the pills over.

            As he did, Lan Wangji saw the skin he’d picked at his nail. He caught his hand, his own thumb smoothing over the damage gently.

            Wei Wuxian swallowed the pills quickly and said, “Alright, get the board back up, A-Ling. Let’s play the sixth game!”

            Jin Ling’s eyebrows had drawn together. He glanced at Wei Wuxian’s leg. “Are you sure?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I’m more afraid of being bored than a little pain. Everyone knows that.”

            Jin Ling hesitated and then picked up the board. “…Just for a little while, then.”

            In the meantime, Wei Wuxian mumbled, “Jiang Cheng, you brat. How could you betray me like this?”

            Jiang Cheng muttered, “You’re welcome.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Since you’re here already, why don’t you stay? Watch me lose to your undefeatable nephew again.”

            Jin Ling scowled, “I said I wanted you to play me for real.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I was! I’ve forgotten all the rules. You’re far too good for the likes of me.”

            Jin Ling, “Play me for real, or I’ll…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and challenged, “Or you’ll what?”

            Jin Ling’s expression held a flicker of triumph. “Or I’ll explain.”

            Wei Wuxian was confused at first. “Explain…?” His eyes widened. He realized he meant he’d explain how Wei Wuxian got hurt. “Ugh! You brat!! Fine! You asked for it.”

            Jin Ling snorted, “Good.”

            Jiang Cheng went to stand near the door but decided to watch.

            The change was obvious. Though he still joked around and talked like he wasn’t paying attention, Wei Wuxian’s mastery of the game was evident from the start. Everything Jin Ling tried to do was stopped. Every time he thought he knew how to gain a little ground, he was thwarted again. Wei Wuxian’s strategy turned out to be rather brilliant, planning not only his own next three moves but anticipating Jin Ling’s as well.

            However, halfway through the sixth game, his movements grew increasingly sluggish. He stopped joking—stopped talking altogether. It took him longer to think of his next move, and when he finally made it, it was easily repelled.

            Lan Wangji noticed the change at once, of course. “Wei Ying, it is time to rest.”

            Wei Wuxian mumbled, “Mm, game’s almost done.”

            Jin Ling looked up sharply and saw how drained he looked. “We’ll finish later.”

            Wei Wuxian’s frown was a bit slow. He blinked, trying to clear both his mind and his vision. “Wanna keep playing. Take…mm, take your turn.”

            Jin Ling was already standing and pulling the table away from the bed. “We’ll finish later, Wei-Jiujiu.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Wait, but…”

            Jiang Cheng slid the door open and stepped out.

            Jin Ling bent over to meet Wei Wuxian’s unfocused gaze. “Later, Wei-Jiujiu. Um, get some rest…okay?”

            Wei Wuxian blinked—or thought he did, but when he opened his eyes again, the room was empty and dim. Lan Wangji had moved out from behind him, at his side on the bed now. He helped him to lie down and adjusted his leg to keep it elevated.

            Wei Wuxian, “Lan…Lan Zhan, where…mm…”

            Lan Wangji, “It is okay. They will return. You must rest now, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian tried to fight it, reaching for Lan Wangji’s arm. “Don’t…don’t leave, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji lay down beside him. His fingers brushed across Wei Wuxian’s cheek. “Do not worry. I am here.”

            Wei Wuxian managed to move a little closer to lean on Lan Wangji’s arm. “…Tired…”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed against his forehead once more. “Sleep, Wei Ying. I am here.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian woke up, confused to find it so dark. Outside, the sun had set, and the candles within the room were burning low.

            He rubbed his eyes and sat up, blearily looking around for Lan Wangji only to realize he was alone.

            He saw the water Hanguang-Jun had left for him on the bedside table and smiled. Picking it up, he wondered how long Lan Wangji had been gone and what he might bring back for dinner.

            At first, he didn’t think he was very hungry, but as he drank, the water hit his empty stomach like an icy waterfall, and he realized he was actually starving.

            On the street beyond the guest rooms, people were playing and talking with one another. Even the shrill laughter of children could still be heard, so it couldn’t have been too late, perhaps eight or nine.

            Wei Wuxian stretched slowly and found his crutches by the bed. He went around the room to take care of a few things—namely to relight the candles and get more water—and then collapsed on the bed again. How am I still so tired after sleeping all day? How absurd!

            Luckily, he didn’t have to wait too long for Lan Wangji to return.

            The door slid open quietly, and Hanguang-Jun entered with a narrow tray. A large pot and several bowls rested atop it.

            Wei Wuxian took one glance at the pot and sat up eagerly. “Is that what I think it is?!”

            Lan Wangji met his gaze as he set the tray down. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian was so excited that he jumped up and tried to fling himself at the table.

            Lan Wangji quickly steadied him and helped him sit. He moved a seat over to prop Wei Wuxian’s leg on.

            While he worked on that, Wei Wuxian pulled the pot closer. “Lan Zhan, you really do spoil me.” He lifted the lid eagerly. Steam coiled in the air over the soup, obscuring its contents. But he would never mistake its light scent. It made his mouth water at the same time that it tugged on his heart. “Lan Zhan, ah, it smells so good!!”

            Lan Wangji sat beside him and ladled the soup into two bowls. He replaced the lid to keep the rest warm. “Here.”

            Wei Wuxian hurried to accept the bowl. He immediately drank a little of the broth down, sighing at its flavor. His eyes fell closed as he smiled. For a moment, he felt like he was a kid again, with his sister sitting right beside him.

            But when he opened his eyes, it was Lan Wangji giving him a soft look.

            Wei Wuxian grinned at him and interlaced their fingers. “It tastes just the same, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji lifted his hand to kiss the back of it.

            Wei Wuxian leaned over his bowl to devour its contents. He didn’t even have time to talk, far too busy enjoying the taste and the memories that came with it.

            He was reaching for the pot for seconds when his hand froze in midair. “Oh! Oh! Lan Zhan! Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!!! Where’s Jin Ling?! Jin Ling!!! Jin Ling, come here!!!”

            At the unnecessary shout, Lan Wangji’s lips twitched.

            Seconds later, the door slid open.

            Wei Wuxian jolted in surprise. “Ah? Jin Ling? How did you get here so fast? Have you been sitting outside all day, waiting for me to wake up?”

            Jin Ling scowled at him. “No. I was already on my way over. Stop being so loud. It’s late.”

            Wei Wuxian, “How come you were already coming over? Did you miss me that much?”

            Jin Ling, “Hanguang-Jun invited me. He said there was something you wanted to give me.”

            Wei Wuxian melted. “You really did, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji nodded once, gazing at him tenderly.

            Wei Wuxian squeezed his hand and grinned. “Well, he’s right! Hurry up and sit down, A-Ling. Now, prepare yourself…because this is the greatest soup in the world. Remember when I told you your mom used to make us lotus pork rib soup? Well, I taught Lan Zhan how to make it for me. Here, here, have some! Don’t let it sit too long. It’ll get cold.”

            Jin Ling was staring at the soup with a complicated expression. Something curious and yearning lingered behind his eyes, along with a certain degree of cautiousness. “This is really my mom’s soup?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded with a wide smile. “Whenever I was sick or hurt as a kid, she always made it for me—and even when I wasn’t. She made it a lot because she knew Jiang Cheng and I loved it so much. Lan Zhan makes it exactly the same. Try some!!”

            Jin Ling slowly picked up his spoon and glanced at Wei Wuxian.

            His expression was almost nervous, so Wei Wuxian grinned and ate his own soup to let him know it was okay to take his time, too. But he watched with anticipatory eyes, hoping he’d like it.

            Jin Ling hesitated a moment longer before he lifted his spoon and took a cautious sip, exploring the new taste gingerly. It took a few seconds to hit, and then his eyes were widening. “This…it’s…it’s delicious!”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart soared with an unexplainable sense of pride. “It’s the best thing in the world!”

            Jin Ling hurried to take another bite, giving a quiet sound of appreciation.

            Wei Wuxian’s vision went a bit blurry as he watched his nephew consume the soup in the same eager way he and Jiang Cheng always had as kids. His smile widened. He squeezed Lan Wangji’s fingers and looked at him excitedly.

            Whatever Lan Wangji read in his eyes made his own expression soften. He lifted their hands to kiss the back of Wei Wuxian’s and then pulled it to the center of his chest, directly over his heart.

            Wei Wuxian scooted closer and started eating again.

            Jin Ling was caught up in a dozen different emotions, but curiosity eventually won out. “What’s in it?!”

            Wei Wuxian happily replied, “Mainly pork ribs and lotus root, but the ginger is a very important addition! It helps balance out the pork, I think. Alright, are you listening? Here’s how you make it…”

            As he delved into a long explanation, Jin Ling listened, seemingly transfixed. He asked questions, clarified certain points, and nodded as he ate.

            He had never cooked before in his life, but he wanted to remember this recipe and repeat it, especially for those times when he thought of his mom the most.

            When Wei Wuxian was finished explaining, he hurried to fill a fourth bowl. He used Lan Wangji’s help to stand and grabbed a single crutch. “I’ll be right back!”

            Lan Wangji stood, too. “Let me help you.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “It’s okay! It’s not too far.” He kept the bowl steady and hobbled out of the room with care so the soup didn’t spill.

            As he’d expected, Jiang Cheng was in Sword Hall, working, despite the late hour. He sat at a table near the back, reading a few letters by candlelight with a grim expression.

            He glanced up when he heard Wei Wuxian’s labored breathing and gave him a harsh look. “Why are you out of bed? Are you an idiot? You’ll make your injury worse.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well, it’s your fault for hiding in here where I had to come find you.”

            Jiang Cheng, “How is this hiding?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Are you going to meet me halfway or not?!” He stopped near a pillar in the center of the hall, panting a little. “I carried this all the way over here, and you’re still so ungrateful.”

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the bowl. “I already ate.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You don’t even know what it is. Just come over here, you brat. Don’t make me walk any further.”

            Jiang Cheng sighed heavily. He set his letter down and walked across the hall. He was about to ask what was so important when the scent reached him. His steps slowed, and he hesitated when he reached Wei Wuxian. At length, he took the bowl over, looking at its contents.

            For a long time, he didn’t react. He just stared at it with an unreadable expression.

            Finally, he muttered, “Did you make it?”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “Of course not. I can’t make it without using too much chili powder.”

            Jiang Cheng, “There is no chili powder in this recipe.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Exactly. Lan Zhan made it.”

            Jiang Cheng considered that. After another long moment, he asked, “Where is A-Ling?”

            Wei Wuxian, “In our room. I promised him a while back that I’d have Lan Zhan make it for him, remember?”

            Jiang Cheng did, of course. He also remembered Wei Wuxian asking him to be there for Jin Ling’s first try. But he had refused.

            Now, he wondered, “…Does he like it?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled softly, “Loves it.”

            Jiang Cheng nodded once.

            He thought about giving the bowl back, thought about refusing to taste it again after so many years. But some sentimental part of him longed for the memories that would come with it.

            He lifted the bowl to sniff it. That alone brought a dozen images to mind. When he took a subtle sip, his gaze fell to the floor. His eyebrows twitched. “…Hanguang-Jun made this?”

            Wei Wuxian’s smile held an undeniable trace of both pride and love. “He did well, right? It’s like she made it herself.”

            Jiang Cheng gave a slow nod, eyes falling to the soup.

            He wasn’t one for outbursts of emotion, especially not grief, but there was no helping the way his eyes stung.

            In truth, he had tried many times to make this soup for Jin Ling over the last fifteen years, but he had never gotten the recipe right. He’d hired countless cooks, copied dozens of recipes, made endless adjustments, but it was never good enough. It was never right.

            He wondered now how Wei Wuxian of all people had remembered the recipe better than he could. He’d always imagined Wei Wuxian had never paid attention to such details as a kid; Jiang Cheng certainly hadn’t. Jiang Yanli had never written it down, either, perhaps never imagining there would come a time when she wouldn’t be able to make it for her two brothers herself.

            Jiang Cheng supposed it wasn’t such a mystery that Wei Wuxian remembered it so well. The soup meant too much; even someone who forgot everything wouldn’t ever forget this.

            After a moment of reflection, he nodded once. “I have to get back to work.”

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t expected anything more, but he pretended to be put out. “Ha, you brat. I’m injured and came all the way over here for you, and you’re not even going to offer to help me back?”

            Jiang Cheng had already returned to his table. “You got here just fine, didn’t you? You have enough people coddling you.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “You have a point!”

            Jiang Cheng looked up when the other turned around. His gaze softened a little.

            The sweet, light scent of the soup surrounded him, pulling at his heart.

            It really was just the same. For a moment, he almost heard the echo of his brother’s teasing and his sister’s quiet laugh.

            “Wei Wuxian.”

            He had nearly reached the massive doorway. “Yeah?”

            Jiang Cheng looked up. “Thank you.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked and then grinned. He nodded, turned around, and left.

            When he got back to the room, Lan Wangji helped him sit down. Wei Wuxian wound both of his arms around one of Lan Wangji’s and rested his head on his shoulder. Jin Ling was preoccupied, caught up in his own thoughts as he ate, so Lan Wangji’s lips brushed against Wei Wuxian’s forehead.

            He murmured, “Are you okay?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded, looking up with a smile. “Perfect…Now! A-Ling, where’s the board? You and I have a game to finish.”

Chapter Text

In his second lifetime, Wei Wuxian had learned a great deal about himself. Some of those discoveries had been incredibly surprising—first and foremost the depth of his feelings for Lan Wangji—and some of them hadn’t been—namely his apathy towards the thoughts of the public. He was used to being reviled by everyone; as a result, he had long since stopped caring how he was viewed by others.

            Sometimes such an attitude served him well. It had certainly made things easier when he’d first come back to life.

            On days like today, though, it was decidedly a bad thing, because not caring what people said meant he really didn’t care—didn’t care what they saw, what they heard, what they thought.

            Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had spent the day doing what they usually did nowadays, traveling to a new location.

            They were somewhere in the Sichuan area—which was very good for Wei Wuxian. It meant his meals were red with spice and slightly sweet, just the way he liked them.

            The city they had stopped in for the night was bustling with activity—also just the way Wei Wuxian liked. They managed to find a room at a nice inn and then explored the city, which led to them sitting beside one another at a small table in a large restaurant.

            Their table sat near the back of the busy room, affording them a little privacy and distance from the rest of the customers. This was something Wei Wuxian had casually suggested when they had first arrived. He liked being surrounded by many people, but, coming from such a quiet and well-mannered sect, Wei Wuxian suspected Lan Wangji didn’t. And, of course, that took precedence for Wei Wuxian.

            The meal Lan Wangji had ordered for them was so incredibly spicy that it even threatened to make Wei Wuxian’s eyes water. He loved it.

            “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan! This is the best meal we’ve had lately! Do you like it, too?!”

            Lan Wangji’s ears seemed a little red. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian caught the noncommittal tone and grinned. “Do you really like it? You can tell me if you don’t. It won’t hurt my feelings or anything. I know you like milder foods.”

            Lan Wangji met his gaze. “It is good.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I’ve cooked for you so many times that even this must be mild by comparison, hahahaha.”

            Lan Wangji poured himself another cup of tea, then refilled the liquor in Wei Wuxian’s. “I also like your food.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, resting his chin in his palm. “I thought you weren’t supposed to lie, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. His was gaze soft when he looked up.

            Wei Wuxian saved him from another reply by waving his hand. “My Lan Zhan is far too good to me. Come, let me get something else for you. Waiter!” He ignored the way Lan Wangji tried to stop him, ordering a bowl of plain rice and a plate of vegetables.

            When they arrived, Lan Wangji continued to eat in the same quiet, unreactive manner, but Wei Wuxian noticed the way the color faded from his ears.

            Grinning, Wei Wuxian reached for where Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon had drifted over his shoulder. He held the thin but strong fabric in his fingers, playing with it as he began to talk again. His tone was light as he shared the latest news he’d heard from the cultivation world.

            As he spoke, he drank. The alcohol at this restaurant was particularly good—not as delicious as Emperor’s Smile, of course, but it was rich and strong. It wasn’t long before a warm glow settled over him, flushing his cheeks and making his smile impossibly brighter.

            And whenever he got a little tipsy, he grew even more playful.

            Wei Wuxian tugged at Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon lightly. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan. You’re so beautiful, did you know that?”

            Lan Wangji looked up at him with a tender gaze.

            Wei Wuxian smiled and wrapped the ribbon around his finger. With his other hand, he reached for the jar of alcohol and poured some in Lan Wangji’s extra cup. With a pout, he lamented, “Lan Zhan, did you also know that I hate drinking alone? It’s so lonely. Won’t you drink with me? Just one little cup? This wine is so good; it makes me sad if I can’t share it with the one I love the most…”

            Really, he needn’t have bothered with the guilt trip. Lan Wangji seldom refused him anything. Without even really seeming to think about it, he accepted the cup and drank its contents in one swallow. He frowned faintly as he set the cup down but didn’t otherwise react.

            Wei Wuxian was grinning so broadly it almost hurt. “How is it? Do you like it?!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t, honestly, but he replied instead, “I can see why you do.”

            With a soft giggle, Wei Wuxian leaned across the table a little. “My Lan Zhan really is too good to me. This liquor isn’t too strong, so I don’t think it’ll make you—”

            Before he could even finish, a crease formed between Lan Wangji’s eyebrows. He blinked languidly at Wei Wuxian, his gaze losing its focus. He lifted a hand to his forehead, rested his elbow on the table, and fell asleep.

            Wei Wuxian snickered softly, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan…we really do have to work on your tolerance.” He poured himself a fifth cup, getting all sorts of funny ideas. Under the table, he pulled his boot off and pressed his toes against Lan Wangji’s knee. “Is my Lan Zhan still sleeping?” He raised his foot to the inside of his thigh. “Mm…don’t make me wait too long, Lan Zhan. You know what I’m like when I drink…”

            Truthfully, he was only teasing. He didn’t even know for sure if Lan Wangji could hear him. He assumed this would go the way it always had: Lan Wangji would sleep for half an hour, during which time Wei Wuxian would half-carry him back to the inn, lay him on the bed, crawl over top of him, and grind against him slowly to ensure drunk Lan Wangji woke up hard and needy, which, of course, would inevitably result in the kind of rough fucking that drunk Wei Wuxian craved.

            He didn’t expect Lan Wangji’s eyes to open only a few minutes later, and he certainly didn’t expect the intensity of his gaze.

            Wei Wuxian nearly choked at such a look. He hurried to set his cup down. “Ah? Lan Zhan, you’re awake?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers caught Wei Wuxian’s foot, which had inched dangerously high up his thigh. But rather than push it away, his fingers slipped under Wei Wuxian’s robes and drifted up his leg, aiming for his knee and then higher.

            Wei Wuxian’s hand hit the table a little hard in surprise. He pulled his foot back, slipping it into his boot again. “Lan Zhan, you’ve woken up so much faster this time! Was it something I did?” He knew it was dangerous to tease a drunk Lan Wangji, but he just couldn’t help it.

            Lan Wangji’s eyes were dilated. They fell to Wei Wuxian’s lips, then lower, tracking across the skin revealed by his loose collar.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart leapt, and he snickered, “What is it, Lan Zhan? Do I look nice?”

            Lan Wangji picked up his hand, which was still tangled in his forehead ribbon. He pulled it up to his lips, giving the inside of Wei Wuxian’s wrist an open-mouthed kiss.

            The heat that rushed across Wei Wuxian’s entire body was oddly sobering.

            He knew with startling clarity that it would be wise to get Lan Wangji up and out of here as quickly as possible. Teasing was teasing, but he had learned recently that things with drunk Lan Wangji had a tendency to go from zero to a hundred remarkably fast—and that was under normal circumstances. Wei Wuxian now found himself in uncharted territory; he’d never seen Lan Wangji wake up so soon with such a hungry look, which meant really anything could happen.

            Their food was regrettably only half-finished, but he left payment on the table and got up, ready to help Lan Wangji outside.

            But as soon as he stood, Lan Wangji tightened his hold on his wrist, pulled him into his lap, and kissed him.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart nearly burst from his ribcage. Near their table, he heard about five people choke and cough themselves into a stunned silence.

            He tried to get up, but Lan Wangji’s hand dropped to his leg, and he gave a soft sound that made it seem like he wanted nothing more than to shove everything off the table and take him right then and there. Hidden from view, his hand was quick to slip up the inside of Wei Wuxian’s thigh, dangerously close to where Wei Wuxian was beginning to react to the spontaneity.

            Wei Wuxian’s mind blanked. Drunkenly, he indulged in the fantasy of letting this continue—of letting Lan Wangji feel him up, bend him over, and fuck him until he was crying with pleasure. The thought was so heady that Wei Wuxian almost gave in.

            With a rush of delayed self-awareness, though, he caught Lan Wangji’s hand before it could reach his length and pulled from the kiss, warning with a soft, “Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was fixed on the sheen across his lips now. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian almost laughed at the stubborn note in his tone—a note that said he knew he was wrong but wouldn’t admit it. “Public, Lan Zhan. Remember? We’re in public.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes lifted, curiously giving a look that said So?

            Wei Wuxian spluttered with a shocked laugh. He shook his head, got up, and took Lan Wangji’s arm. Ignoring the table shocked into silence beside them, he focused on leading the other outside.

            Usually, it was Lan Wangji trying to keep Wei Wuxian from going wild; how could it be that their roles had reversed in such a short span of time?

            The difficult thing was that Wei Wuxian genuinely didn’t care what people thought about him. But he found himself very worried about protecting Lan Wangji’s image.

            After all, Hanguang-Jun was revered for his good manners, unconquerable self-control, and undeniable elegance. If he wanted to destroy that flawless reputation by fucking his cultivation partner over a table in a crowded restaurant, Wei Wuxian at least wanted him to be sober enough to think about the consequences first.

            So, though it was difficult, Wei Wuxian ignored his own wild thoughts and pulled him into the street.

            It was particularly crowded, the hour at which most people were leaving their shops and heading either home or out to dinner. Wei Wuxian was trying to find the quickest, cleanest route to the inn—of which he could only vaguely recall the location. He knew intimately how little patience drunk Lan Wangji had. And he was impatient himself, his mind relentlessly indulging in fantasies of all the things they could be doing instead of walking.

            As much of a reminder to himself as to Lan Wangji, he murmured, “This way, Lan Zhan. Be good, okay? Let’s go back to the inn first.”

            If Lan Wangji heard his quiet tone, he pretended not to.

            After a mere dozen steps, he caught the back of Wei Wuxian’s sash belt. He turned him around swiftly and connected their lips with a soft moan—an unexpected sound that sent a blazing column of heat rushing down Wei Wuxian’s spine, because Lan Wangji was seldom so vocal or demanding, and never in public.

            At once, Wei Wuxian lost himself in the kiss. He was only human, after all—and a drunk one, at that.

            It didn’t start out chaste at all; from the first touch, Lan Wangji’s tongue was exploring his mouth, fingers digging into his waist. Of course, this only made Wei Wuxian feel hotter. Forgetting entirely the crowd surging like the sea around them, he melted into the kiss. His fingers clutched at Lan Wangji’s collar as he rose on his toes to reach better.

            Back when he’d first woken up in Mo Xuanyu’s body, he hadn’t really given much thought to the height difference between them. But after so many similar kisses, he absolutely loved it. He loved having to stretch to his toes, loved the way Lan Wangji bent a little to meet him, loved it especially when Lan Wangji lifted him up, pinned him to the wall, and—

            Nope, no, stop it, don’t think about that right now.

            The ravenous kiss lasted all of ten breathless seconds—long enough for heat to coil in Wei Wuxian’s stomach, long enough for Lan Wangji to slip his hand to the small of Wei Wuxian’s back, long enough for a few gasping passersby to notice—and then Wei Wuxian pulled back. The wet tch of their lips and the string of saliva that connected them felt so dirty in the middle of the street that another dizzying wave of arousal crashed over Wei Wuxian. For half a delirious second, he wanted to sink down to his knees.

            Instead, he released Lan Wangji’s collar to take his hand. His voice came out a little shaky. “Let’s get back, Lan Zhan, okay?”

            He noted—and dismissed—the stares of three deeply blushing men and women as he pulled Lan Wangji with him again.

            But drunk Lan Wangji wouldn’t be so easily deterred. They made it only half a dozen more steps before Lan Wangji caught his waist. His fingers circled around to settle low on Wei Wuxian’s stomach, so achingly close to where he was desperate to be touched. Forcibly, Lan Wangji backed them into a deserted alley and behind a stack of crates. He leaned against the wall of some random shop and pulled Wei Wuxian to him, fingers kneading into his backside.

            Wei Wuxian cursed as he felt how hard Lan Wangji was against his thigh. He squeezed his eyes shut and panted, “You…really shouldn’t drink in public, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji licked his earlobe, then bit it softly. “Want you.”

            Wei Wuxian shuddered. “I can tell.”

            Lan Wangji kissed him again—hard. It was uncoordinated at first, all tongue—the kind of needy, desperate kiss Lan Wangji only gave when he was drunk out of his mind.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into it. His thoughts zeroed in on the hard length pressing into his thigh and his own aching need.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened on his backside, urging him into a slow grind.

            Wei Wuxian broke from the kiss, pulled up to his toes as he gripped Lan Wangji’s shoulder with one hand. His other hand slapped against the wall of crates blocking them from the street. A long gasp seeped from his throat. The alcohol wrapped around his thoughts until they were reduced to, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan. Feel so good, sound so good, want you, need you, everything, right now, fuck me, fuck me, fuck me.

            It took every ounce of self-control he possessed to try to refocus. “L-Lan Zhan…n-not, haa…fuck…not here, okay?” How am I the one saying this now? Really, how can this be? How does he have the strength to resist me when I’m like this?! Fuck, this is torture. Unconvincingly, he repeated, “Lan Zhan, hngh, not…not here.”

            Lan Wangji nodded and pulled him into a better grind that had Wei Wuxian’s toes curling. Lan Wangji’s eyes were closed, his lips and nose brushing against Wei Wuxian’s. “Here. Want you. Need you. Now.”

           Wei Wuxian’s fingers dug into his shoulder. He hissed in pleasure, “Fuck…why, ngh…wh-why do you only ever say such, haa, such things when you’re drunk, Lan Zhan…” His control was slipping. “We…we shouldn’t…mm…hngh…f-feels so good…L-Lan Zhan…ngh, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji gave a breathy sound, fingers tightening. “So beautiful…want you…every day…need you…”

            Wei Wuxian nearly choked when he tried to gasp and moan at the same time. His hips were rolling on their own now, chasing his release. He was so close already, his hands shaking. “Me too, Lan Zhan…ah…every day…haa, fuck…”

            As though he could sense Wei Wuxian’s impending orgasm and wanted it, he tightened his hands and pulled him faster.

            Wei Wuxian’s mouth fell open on a nearly silent whine. “L-Lan Zhan! Fuck…I-I’m so…I’m gonna…Lan Zhan…f-feels so good, fuck…” No, not good, not good. Street, people, public. Wei Wuxian, why are you such an idiot?! He may be drunk, but what’s your excuse?

            Lan Wangji’s length twitched against his thigh. He lowered his hand on Wei Wuxian’s backside, grinding into him with a newfound urgency. “Wei…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s whimper was a touch loud. He dropped his head to Lan Wangji’s shoulder, riding him for dear life. He felt it building in his stomach, felt it ready to crash over him, just a few more second and—

            He lifted his body off Lan Wangji’s thigh, staggering forward. His eyes squeezed shut as his length pulsed in open shock.

            Lan Wangji grunted softly at the loss, his fingers so tight they hurt. His lips brushed across Wei Wuxian’s temple as he panted a faint, “Please…”

            Wei Wuxian’s legs almost gave out. His brain was so clouded with lust that he nearly stripped at such a simple word, because Lan Wangji only, only begged when he was this drunk. So powerful was the effect of such a word that, for a split second, Wei Wuxian thought he might come from it alone.

            “Lan Zhan…you…I…”

            Lan Wangji’s hand drifted between them to palm Wei Wuxian.

            This time, his legs did give out. He groaned and bit his lip, falling against Lan Wangji’s leg again. He forgot everything and pulled Lan Wangji to his lips, moaning brokenly into the kiss.

            Lan Wangji’s tongue brushed against his, swallowing his every sound. Wei Wuxian dropped his hips and entered into the same rhythm Lan Wangji had established before.

            Lan Wangji’s breath caught. His other hand urged Wei Wuxian closer, harder, faster.

            Wei Wuxian lost the ability to return the kiss, left open-mouthed as pleasure and alcohol consumed his thoughts.

            He whimpered, “Fuck, yes…L-Lan Zhan…feels so good…fuck…do you feel good?”

            Lan Wangji nodded, “Wei Ying.”

            A string of saliva slipped from Wei Wuxian’s lips. He raised his sleeve to his mouth, moaning against the fabric. His eyes squeezed shut, and then, with a choked sound, his other hand made a fist in Lan Wangji’s robes.

            Pleasure exploded within him, hard enough for his vision to white out. He grinded forward with frantic urgency. His forehead fell to Lan Wangji’s shoulder. Short, breathy sounds were pulled from him, muffled only by his sleeve.

            Lan Wangji felt him come in his hand and groaned. He followed right after, head tipping back with an almost pained expression. He whispered Wei Wuxian’s name repeatedly, holding him as close as possible as they finished together.

            Wei Wuxian moaned as he felt the pulse Lan Wangji’s length gave. He looked up blearily, weakening even more at the beautiful expression Lan Wangji always had in these moments. His eyebrows had pulled together, his lips parted as his eyes closed even tighter.

            Wei Wuxian kissed his neck, biting it softly with a faint sound. Lan Wangji’s hands roamed over his waist and up his back to cradle his head. He lowered his own to kiss him again, groaning.

            I really can’t make Lan Zhan drink in public again…fuck…but he’s so beautiful…that was so good…

            Wei Wuxian shifted a little, surprised to find Lan Wangji still hard. His heart flipped, and heat returned to his stomach. He pulled back after a moment, searching Lan Wangji’s hazy eyes. “You want more?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flicked to his lips and back up. “Want you.”

            Wei Wuxian teased, “Oh? Want what? Want to be inside me? Want to fuck me so hard I can’t even walk afterwards? I want that, too. But we have to get back to the inn first, okay?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips brushed against his, and then he was taking his hand and leading him into the street.

***

Lan Wangji got them back to the inn in record time. They burst through the door to their room. Wei Wuxian barely managed to slide it closed again before Lan Wangji was on him.

            The kiss was messy and searing from the start. He groaned into it, picked Wei Wuxian up, and pinned him to the wall to grind against him.

            Wei Wuxian grunted and whimpered at how fast it all happened. He pulled away from Lan Wangji’s lower lip and teased, “You’re so horny when you’re drunk, Lan Zhan.”

            Even in his state, the word brought a blush to Lan Wangji’s earlobes. He sealed Wei Wuxian’s lips with his own, then yanked off their clothes carelessly.

            One thing Wei Wuxian loved so much about getting Lan Wangji drunk was how uninhibited he became. He moved with unapologetic urgency, as though he needed him and couldn’t or wouldn’t wait even a moment longer than necessary.

            Drunk, sober, even in Wei Wuxian’s dreams, Lan Wangji worshipped his body.

            Wei Wuxian hit the bed a little hard, gasping softly as Lan Wangji followed after him with a blindingly fervent kiss. He bit Wei Wuxian’s lip, making the other wince and pull back.

            “Ah, always biting, Lan Zhan. So rude when you’re drunk. You haven’t even tied me up yet!”

            Lan Wangji was mouthing at his neck as he spoke, his fingers leaving long marks on Wei Wuxian’s thigh as he hitched it over his waist. Hearing the last part, he wondered, “Do you want me to?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Yes!”

            Lan Wangji sat up. He took his forehead ribbon off and tied Wei Wuxian’s wrists together tightly. Too tightly.

            Wei Wuxian grimaced, “Mm, bit looser, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji always listened. He pulled it free at once and started over. Watching Wei Wuxian to make sure it was fine, he then tied the ribbon into several inescapable knots.

            Wei Wuxian, “Good boy.”

            Lan Wangji fell over him again gracefully, offering another searing kiss. One of his thighs pressed against Wei Wuxian’s length until it was embraced between his leg and Wei Wuxian’s stomach.

            Fluid leaked from its tip, rolling down to Wei Wuxian’s abdomen as he whimpered, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, no more playing, okay? Fuck me, please don’t make me wait.”

            Lan Wangji’s tongue ran across his skin as he kissed his way down his neck, grunting lowly at Wei Wuxian’s tone. He tried to reach for the small jar near the bed, but his hand was caught midway there.

            With a salacious grin, Wei Wuxian mused, “Let me.”

            He pulled Lan Wangji’s fingers to his mouth, accepting three of them. Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed up to watch, as though surprised.

            Wei Wuxian lavished his fingers with the same attention he had given his length on more than one occasion. Lan Wangji seemed captivated by the stretch of his lips; he pressed down softly on Wei Wuxian’s tongue, earning a quiet moan in return.

            Lan Wangji swallowed, parting his lips with a shaky breath.

            Wei Wuxian took his fingers deeper, rolling his tongue against them. He gave another low sound at the evident hunger in Lan Wangji’s eyes.

            After only a moment, Lan Wangji pulled his hand back and licked his way into Wei Wuxian’s mouth with a groan.

            The sound was returned, higher and breathier, when Lan Wangji’s fingers appeared low on Wei Wuxian’s body. He wrapped his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck.

            Even though he was technically drunk, Lan Wangji’s reflexes and movements had never suffered from alcohol. His fingers promptly found and pressed against the spot that had Wei Wuxian writhing and thrusting up. A broken moan leaked from Wei Wuxian’s throat. His length twitched when Lan Wangji didn’t retreat, instead grinding his fingers against that spot mercilessly.

            Wei Wuxian’s expression twisted beautifully. His lips parted with a startled cry as his eyes squeezed shut.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze was fixed on his features, drinking in every reaction. He angled his wrist lower, pressing up against the spot more firmly.

            Wei Wuxian’s body quaked. His stomach trembled, his thighs shook, and his toes curled. “Ah! L-Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, w-wait, I’m gonna—s-stop…fuck, Lan-Lan Zhan, please, please, please…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers retreated at the word stop.

            Wei Wuxian groaned as he backed away from the edge. Though it had been his idea, his length gave an angry throb, furious that it was denied.

            As he regained control, he reached between them to exact a little revenge.

            Lan Wangji’s breath shuddered out of him, and his head fell to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. Wei Wuxian stroked him in the slow, tight way he knew would have him gasping. Lan Wangji’s hips met his hand in small gyrations as his fingers gripped Wei Wuxian’s thigh.

            Wei Wuxian leaned into his ear, taking his earlobe between his teeth lightly. “Want you, Lan Zhan…want you to fuck me as hard as you can. Don’t hold back. Fuck me so hard I can’t even walk tomorrow.”

            Lan Wangji’s length pulsed faintly. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Will you be good and do what I ask, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji nodded. He lifted his head to kiss him. “Anything, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted. Even when he’s drunk and rough, he’s still my tender Lan Zhan. “Good boy, Lan Zhan, Hanguang-Jun, always so good for me. So beautiful. Love you so much.”

            Lan Wangji returned the sentiment with a whispered, “Every day.”

            Wei Wuxian quickened the pace of his hand. “Can you answer something for me, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s voice came out breathless even on the monosyllabic, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You like it when I call you Lan Er-Gege, don’t you?”

            Lan Wangji’s length gave another faint pulse. His breath caught, and his hand tightened.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “I knew it.”

            Lan Wangji leaned up to kiss him, cutting off whatever else he might tease him with. Wei Wuxian stroked him harder in retaliation, as though prodding.

            Finally at his limit, Lan Wangji broke from the kiss, took Wei Wuxian’s waist, and flipped him over.

            Wei Wuxian grinned as he gripped the edge of the bed in preparation. “Fuck me hard, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji leaned over him, biting his shoulder. “Mm. Mark your words.”

            Wei Wuxian glanced back at him. “Mark them for me.”

***

Hours later, Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitched. He frowned faintly, then opened his eyes to take in his surroundings.

            Wei Wuxian was asleep beneath him, wrists tied and looped around Lan Wangji’s neck. Lan Wangji was half on top of him, half on the bed, his arm slung over Wei Wuxian’s bare waist, and his leg pressed between both of Wei Wuxian’s.

            For a split second, Lan Wangji was confused. The last thing he remembered was eating dinner with Wei Wuxian, and now they were in bed together, and it was dark outside.

            Then he recalled Wei Wuxian offering him a cup of clear liquor with a pitiful pout.

            Wei Wuxian’s lips were curved slightly up, even in sleep. Marks lined not only his waist but his neck, his thighs, his back, and his arms from where he’d been held and bitten. His wrists looked red under the forehead ribbon, and his lips were still a deep red from the bruising strength of their kisses.

            Not that Wei Wuxian minded such roughness; in fact, he had more than once tried to get sober Hanguang-Jun to be as ruthless.

            Lan Wangji carefully lifted out from under his arms and sat up. They were both a mess, covered in each other’s release and sweat, some of which had dried, and some of which was still fresh—meaning they must have passed out only recently.

            He cleaned Wei Wuxian first, gently so as to not wake him, then himself. He untied the forehead ribbon, gazing at Wei Wuxian’s raw skin.

            As he was applying an ointment to soothe the burn, Wei Wuxian hummed and woke up.

            Groggily, he mumbled, “Mm…Lan Zhan…you’re awake?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered softly before he pretended to pout. “Lan Zhan, you’re so rough when you’re drunk.”

            Lan Wangji’s touch seemed to become subconsciously softer. “You reap what you sow.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “It wasn’t me this time! Normally, I’m the one teasing you into such a state, but this time, you tried to fuck me in the restaurant! When we got out onto the street, you pulled me into an alleyway and made me hump your leg until we both came. You wanted to fuck me there, too, but I managed to get us back here first.”

            Lan Wangji seemed at a total loss for a moment. The brazen words and suggestion made his earlobes darken even as he quietly pointed out, “…You made me drink.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned unapologetically, “True! I did make you drink…but only because I love you when you’re drunk. I love all versions of Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together. “Silly.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Hehe…but it’s true. Though…I think it might be difficult to walk tomorrow. You fucked me too hard, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji, “Then I will carry you.”

            Of course, that was what Wei Wuxian wanted. He grinned, “Ah, if you insist, Lan Zhan. I accept, I accept.”

            Lan Wangji leaned over. His lips brushed against Wei Wuxian’s, providing a stark contrast to the roughness from before. After a moment, he looked at him solemnly. “…Did I hurt you?”

            Wei Wuxian smiled and hugged him. “Of course not, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s next kiss was almost overwhelmingly tender.

            Wei Wuxian was quick to deepen it, giving a soft, satisfied hum. His tone was even softer when they parted. “Every day, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze brimmed with affection. “Every day.”

            Grinning, Wei Wuxian pulled Lan Wangji over him until they rested on their sides, then pressed his forehead to Lan Wangji’s neck.

            “We really do have to work on your alcohol tolerance, though. One cup, and you lose all sense of propriety! Not that I’m complaining, of course, but you’ll get us into trouble one day, hehe.”

            Lan Wangji murmured quietly, “That is fine.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Which part? Raising your tolerance or getting into trouble?”

            Lan Wangji, “Trouble.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed against his neck. “Oh? The honorable Hanguang-Jun doesn’t care if he gets into trouble anymore?”

            Lan Wangji, “I do not.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh? Am I such a bad influence on you? Hahahaha, who would have thought?!”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers interlaced with his.

            He didn’t even say a word, but the tenderness of the gesture had Wei Wuxian’s heart trembling. He wasn’t terribly surprised when he felt his eyes sting a little. With a sigh, he hugged Lan Wangji tighter. “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan. How is it that you can go from fucking me into the bed to making me cry like some young maiden? How can this be?!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched as he pressed them to Wei Wuxian’s hair.

            Wei Wuxian, “Ugh, how unbearable. I hardly ever cried in my old body, you know!” After a long moment, his voice grew quieter. “Honestly…you’re too good to me. What did I ever do to deserve you, Hanguang-Jun? Why do you love me so much?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened on his faintly. He didn’t answer that, either—but then again, how could he? How could such a deep, profound emotion ever be concisely explained? 

            Lan Wangji never used words when he could use action. Pulling Wei Wuxian to his lips again, he tried to convey his answer as best he could. 

Chapter Text

When Lan Wangji slid the door shut a little harder than necessary, Wei Wuxian knew for certain he was mad.

            Perhaps he should have taken that more seriously—another person might have—but instead, he found himself struggling not to laugh.

            It wasn’t that he thought an angry Hanguang-Jun was funny, per se, and it definitely wasn’t the circumstances he found amusing, either. It was just the concept of being in trouble that made it difficult to keep a straight face. 

            He had been this way since childhood. Nothing had ever worked reprimanding him—as countless seniors had learned the hard way. It didn’t matter how long he kneeled, how loud he was scolded at, or how hard he was hit, he never learned a lesson and spent almost the entire time grinning.

            And now that it was the one who loved him the most who was closing doors a little too hard and avoiding eye contact, he could barely hold back.

            There were two main reasons for this.

            Firstly, Hanguang-Jun seldom got angry, especially with him. Wei Wuxian couldn’t even remember the last time—in this lifetime, anyway—that he’d gotten him this mad.

            Secondly, whenever Lan Wangji did get angry, it always—without fault or exception—resulted in the kind of rough, mind-numbing, angry sex that only encouraged Wei Wuxian’s misbehavior. Even the mere thought of what was about to happen sent a thrill through Wei Wuxian’s entire body.

            For the moment, though, Wei Wuxian was focused so hard on not laughing that his stomach hurt. He could do nothing about the smile that broke out across his face.

            When he spoke, his voice was nearly a purr. “Lan Zhan~”

            Lan Wangji exhaled sharply. He set Bichen down on the bedside table with an audible clang.

            Wei Wuxian sauntered over to him. He placed Chenqing beside the crystalline sword, then reached for one of the fluttering ends of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon.

            He only managed to tug on it once before Lan Wangji, without turning around, moved the ribbon over his shoulder. “Do not pull.”

            Wei Wuxian curled his lips in, holding his breath to stop a laugh. From behind, he wrapped his arms around Lan Wangji’s waist and rested his cheek on his shoulder. “Is my Lan Zhan angry with me, mm? Too angry to even look at me?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply, but he was clearly unhappy with the low, sultry tone Wei Wuxian had adopted.

            Wei Wuxian raised a hand over Lan Wangji’s heart. Even through all the layers of clothing, he could feel just how fast it was still beating. He brushed his lips against Lan Wangji’s clothed shoulder. His next words were a little muffled by the fabric, but his tone was unbearably saccharine. “What is it, Lan Er-Gege? Mm? Talk to me, my beautiful Hanguang-Jun. You know how I feel about being ignored…you don’t want to hurt my feelings, do you?”

            Lan Wangji was still breathing a little fast in his anger. His eyebrows had pulled together in a deep frown. When he spoke, his voice was no longer neutral. “You are reckless, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed softly and let his lips drift across Lan Wangji’s neck. “Mm…it worked out, didn’t it?”

            Lan Wangji was mad but not so much that he’d break away from him. Still, his voice grew hard when he heard how nonchalant Wei Wuxian’s tone became. “Reckless and irresponsible. You could have gotten hurt. You do not think before you act.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled against his shoulder. “Well, we’ve always known that, haven’t we?”

            Lan Wangji unhooked his arms and turned around. He looked down at him with a complicated expression. “It is not funny.”

            Wei Wuxian’s hands dropped to Lan Wangji’s sash belt. He tugged at it idly, offering his most disarming smile. “I don’t think it’s funny, Lan Er-Gege. On the contrary…” He stood on his toes and moved until their lips nearly touched. “…you have my full attention.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw tightened. “You cannot behave this way every time and think I will forget what happened.”

            Wei Wuxian’s grin turned salacious. His hand reached lower. “Behave what way? What am I doing, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji caught his wrist before he could touch him. “This way. It is not funny. It is not dismissible to me.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart gave a faint tug at the way he said to me. He decided to stop playing temporarily, instead looping his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck. Their noses brushed as he searched his eyes. Quietly, he murmured, “I don’t think it’s funny, Lan Zhan, and I’m not trying to dismiss it. I never want to worry my Hanguang-Jun.”

            Tersely, Lan Wangji replied, “Then do not ever do it again.”

            Wei Wuxian knew he was serious—it was serious. But he had never liked such sincerity and only wanted to maintain it briefly.

            Flashing another grin he knew would anger Lan Wangji, he challenged, “Or what?”

            As expected, Lan Wangji’s expression darkened. His breaths moved faster with frustration. Anger gave him such a look that heat melted and pooled in Wei Wuxian’s stomach.

            Through his teeth, Lan Wangji said, “Wei Ying. It is not—”

            Wei Wuxian cut him off with a low, breathy tone. “What happens if I do it again?” He leaned into Lan Wangji’s ear. “Will Lan Er-Gege punish me?”

            For a split second, Lan Wangji seemed livid.

            Wei Wuxian grinned triumphantly when he saw the exact second Lan Wangji finally lost his patience.

            One of his hands gripped Wei Wuxian’s waist painfully hard. He lifted the other to Wei Wuxian’s neck and brought him to his lips for a bruising kiss.

            Wei Wuxian deepened it with a moan. He pressed himself against Lan Wangji and managed to pant, “Love it when you’re angry, Lan Zhan,” mere seconds before his sash belt was ripped off.

            The sound of the fabric tearing made Wei Wuxian’s length pulse. Lan Wangji’s strength was enough to bring him forward half a step. He chuckled breathlessly, in turn yanking Lan Wangji’s sash belt off, too. The stitches didn’t pop in the same way, but it still felt satisfyingly rough.

            Lan Wangji picked him up and pinned him to the wall. Wei Wuxian fell against it a bit hard, gasping with delight as Lan Wangji’s fingers dug deep into his waist. Anger seemed to radiate off Lan Wangji, filling Wei Wuxian’s stomach with arousal because when Lan Wangji was mad, he wasn’t gentle.

            The kiss was fittingly searing and messy. Breathy sounds leaked uninhibited from Wei Wuxian’s throat. He rocked his hips up to grind urgently against Lan Wangji’s stomach.

            Lan Wangji pulled from his lips and moved to bite his neck—hard.

            It earned a startled yelp and then a pleased whimper. Wei Wuxian’s fingernails dug into Lan Wangji’s shoulders at another rush of heat. “Ah…Lan Zhan…haa, that’s it…punish me…” When Lan Wangji bit down a little harder at the juncture between his shoulder and neck, Wei Wuxian shuddered and gasped.

            He used to be deathly afraid of such bites—from dogs, he still was—but he had grown to crave Lan Wangji’s teeth harmlessly scraping against his skin. Despite the initial flicker of pain, a dizzying ache left him throbbing for more attention. Rarely did he get Lan Wangji so angry.

            “Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji preferred action to words. Rather than take out his frustration with an argument, he vented it through burning kisses and deep touches. Returning to Wei Wuxian, he bit his lip, then explored his mouth, reaching up with one hand for his forehead ribbon. He caught Wei Wuxian’s wrists and bound them together.

            A long whine fell from Wei Wuxian. His hips rolled faster against Lan Wangji’s tensed abdomen, desperate for more, more, more.

            Lust and anger swirled around them, rendering one of them lightheaded with need and the other rough with exasperation.

            After a few heated moments, Lan Wangji stepped away from the wall and tossed Wei Wuxian onto the bed.

            Huffing at the landing, Wei Wuxian gazed up at Lan Wangji with reddened lips and heavily lidded eyes. A few fleeting seconds later, his trousers were torn off.

            Lan Wangji flipped Wei Wuxian over, brought him to the very edge of the bed, and pulled him up by his waist until he was kneeling.

            Wei Wuxian grinned and grabbed a fistful of the blanket. Both of them were still mostly clothed. Wei Wuxian loved it when Lan Wangji fucked him like that—all raw and urgent, without time or consideration for undressing.

            Lan Wangji had already taken him that morning—albeit much more slowly and significantly more tenderly—so neither of them was particularly concerned with preparation.    

            Instead, Wei Wuxian glanced over his shoulder and dared in a breathy tone, “Are you gonna punish me, Hanguang-Jun? Maybe if you’d punished me like this behind the Library Pavilion, I wouldn’t have broken so many rules at—ah!” The yelp was forced from his lungs when Lan Wangji thrusted into him in one go. White-hot pleasure drowned out the flicker of pain, and he fell to his elbows with another startled cry.

            Lan Wangji bent over him. One hand soothed across Wei Wuxian’s waist while the other reached for Wei Wuxian’s fingers, fisted tight in the blanket. He panted quietly, “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart trembled because, even angry, Lan Wangji’s priorities were never confused or forgotten. Always my tender Lan Zhan, even like this.

            Nodding hurriedly, Wei Wuxian begged, “Don’t stop, don’t stop, hnngh, Lan Zhan, f-fuck me, mark me, punish me, show me I was wrong for—ah!”

            Lan Wangji had leaned back up and pulled almost all the way out only to slam back in. His fingers left long lines across Wei Wuxian’s thighs and waist as he entered into a brutal pace.

            Wei Wuxian felt each and every thrust deep in his knees. He felt exactly where his bruises were forming from the wood beneath the thin bed covering, but such insignificant details were overwhelmed by the pleasure surging through him. He dropped his head to the bed, jolting with each movement.

            After a moment, he reached for his length with his tied wrists to jerk himself in time with Lan Wangji’s rhythm.

            A strangled sound fell from his lips as he found himself wet and leaking, as always. It was a bit difficult to work out the angle with his wrists tied, but he entered into a fast pace that had his chest heaving and his toes curling.

            He only managed a few glorious seconds of relief, though, before his hands were pulled away. Groaning in complaint, Wei Wuxian clutched the blanket. “Haa, L-Lan Zhan…you really are mad, haha…hnngh…fuck…haa…f-feels so good…always so good for me, Lan Er—Gege!” The honorific was torn from him a bit loudly with another hard thrust.

            Sweat beaded across their skin, slipping down in rivulets as Lan Wangji’s pace quickened even more. Wei Wuxian rolled his hips back to meet him. His fingernails bit into his palms even through the blanket, but he didn’t register the pain, only the blinding pleasure.

            Without warning, Lan Wangji pulled out of him and flipped him over onto his back. Wei Wuxian panted as his hips instinctively grinded up into the air, seeking relief. His length fell back against his clothed stomach, leaking and twitching as it was denied. The fluid soaked into his robes and stained them, but he was hardly in the frame of mind to care about such things. 

            Lan Wangji grabbed Wei Wuxian’s thigh, hooked it over his shoulder, and then slammed into him again.

            Wei Wuxian’s expression twisted with another moan. His hands scrabbled for purchase and found it in Lan Wangji’s collars. He clutched the silky fabric so tightly that his knuckles cracked.

            Lan Wangji leaned over him again, continuing his fast pace as he kissed and bit Wei Wuxian’s neck.

            Gladly baring it for more contact, Wei Wuxian writhed and rambled, “Feels so good, Lan Zhan. Love it when you—ah—when you fuck me angry like this. Haa, y-you’re so…mm…you’re so…hnngh, so fucking hard…” That hadn’t quite come out the way he’d meant it, but he didn’t even realize. His mouth fell open, and his mind blanked when Lan Wangji’s movements railed mercilessly against that spot within his walls.

            Every thrust forced him further up the bed until Lan Wangji finally pulled him back and held him in place. He gripped the underside of Wei Wuxian’s thigh, pressing it towards Wei Wuxian’s shoulder and spreading him open. His other hand rested at the small of Wei Wuxian’s back, lifting his hips up for a deeper angle.

            Wei Wuxian’s curses, moans, praises, and cries all streamed from him ceaselessly. Pleasure flashed across his skin and through his veins. His length pulsed against his stomach as it all built too high and—

            And right when it was about to bring him under, Lan Wangji pulled out of him again.

            Wei Wuxian cried out in dismay. He was too close to think rationally anymore; deprived of one source of pleasure, he urgently reached for himself to provide another. A single stroke was all he needed, just a flicker of contact to send him reeling.

            But Lan Wangji caught his wrists before he could touch himself, pinning them over his head on the bed.

            Wei Wuxian’s hips canted up into the air, desperate for something, anything. With fervor, he begged, “Lan Zhan! Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Hanguang-Jun, Lan Er-Gege, mercy! Please, mercy! I need—I was wrong! I was wrong, I was wrong—please, I’m so fucking close, Lan Zhan—please, let me—”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened on his wrists. “Not…not so loud, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian barely heard his words, whimpering at how low and thick Lan Wangji’s voice came out. It was positively dripping with need, and Wei Wuxian knew he was just as close. “Fuck me, Lan Zhan, please, please, fuck me, mark me—need you, want you—”

            Lan Wangji picked him up, kneeling on the bed so he could pin Wei Wuxian to the wall once more. With a harsh thrust, he entered Wei Wuxian again and continued his fast pace, grunting at his neck. He hooked one of Wei Wuxian’s legs over his arm, placing his hand against the wall to keep it high. Balancing Wei Wuxian with defiant care, his thrusts grew impossibly harder and deeper.

            Wei Wuxian clung to the front of Lan Wangji’s robes for dear life. Cries were pulled from him when Lan Wangji mercilessly began slamming into that spot again. Tears flooded his vision, and he threw his head back, whining and moaning with abandon.

            Lan Wangji had the presence of mind to remember where they were. He covered his mouth with his free hand, groaning, “Wei…Wei Ying…” He licked Wei Wuxian’s neck and bit into it. “Wei Ying…n-not so loud…”

            Wei Wuxian shuddered. He mouthed at Lan Wangji’s palm, then reached up to take two of his fingers into his mouth. He gave another heedless moan, biting them lightly. Lan Wangji’s length twitched inside him as he watched Wei Wuxian’s red lips spread around them. He pressed down on Wei Wuxian’s tongue with another soft groan of his name.

            Wei Wuxian’s tears slipped down his temples as a trail of saliva ran down his chin. He hollowed his cheeks around Lan Wangji’s fingers, lavishing them with attention. With urgency, he met Lan Wangji’s movements, but he felt frustration building in his stomach. Sometimes, he could come from Lan Wangji’s fingers alone grinding against that spot; other days, it took a bit more to get him there. And though he was close—and had been this entire time—he needed more.

            He tried to reach for himself, but his wrists were caught once again. In retaliation, Wei Wuxian whimpered and bit the fingers in his mouth a little harder.

            Finally, Lan Wangji pulled his hand away. He surged forward, kissing Wei Wuxian with a breathless grunt.

            A choked moan was offered in return. After a few seconds, the sloppy kiss dissolved into little more than panting against each other’s mouths. Lan Wangji’s fingers found Wei Wuxian’s, interlacing with them and squeezing them tightly. A moment later, he dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, panting almost frantically against his sweat-slicked skin.

            Wei Wuxian’s voice grew hoarse with his cries. Neither of them was in the frame of mind to care about volume anymore. His leg tightened around Lan Wangji’s waist, feeling his pace start to lose its rhythm.

            Wei Wuxian’s length pulsed in time with his heartbeat. With another deep thrust, he felt it all about to crash over him.

            But before it could, Lan Wangji changed their position again. He pulled Wei Wuxian off the wall and flipped him over to his knees again. Wei Wuxian’s fingers dug into the bedding as his pace started rough once more.

            He cried incoherently, “Please, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, mercy! I-I need—I can’t—f-feels so good, please, please, let me, haa, I need to—hnngh, please, please, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji’s hands tightened on his waist. He leaned over his back, kissing and biting his way across Wei Wuxian’s shoulders.

            The pleasure once more outweighed the flickers of pain. Wei Wuxian’s hips arched up and back, making the absolute most of the position. His thighs shook with need, and he glanced down hazily to see a long string of fluid connecting his length to the bed. He was dripping and aching with need, his length a dark, angry color. He tried in vain to reach for himself, desperate for contact.

            Lan Wangji caught his wrists again, panting, “No…Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s voice was thick with anguish. “Please, Lan Zhan—ah—touch me—I can’t—no more—mercy, mercy—I can’t—I need it—please, haa, please let me come, let me come, I need you, I need—”

          Lan Wangji lifted a hand over his mouth, fingers shaking faintly. “Not so loud…”

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t even see through his tears. He pulled Lan Wangji’s hand away, clutching it with urgency. “I need you, Lan Zhan, please, please, touch me, please, Lan Zhan, I can’t—I need you—please, touch me, touch me, please, I’ll do anything!”

            Lan Wangji gave a low and breathless groan. He pressed his free hand to the inside of Wei Wuxian’s thigh, so dangerously close to where he was weeping and pulsing. “Say you will not do it again.”

            Wei Wuxian would have agreed to anything at this point. “I won’t! L-Lan Zhan—haa—I won’t, I won’t I—hnngh—I was wrong, I was wrong—please, need you so fucking much, it hurts—please, touch me, need you—need your fingers, your hand, your—ah!” A sob ripped from his throat when Lan Wangji’s hand finally, finally encircled him. His hips thrusted forward into that tight grip, his body screaming with relief. Goosebumps rose across his arms as pleasure surged through him dizzyingly fast. “Ah! Yes, yes, yes! Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!” His voice gave out when Lan Wangji’s thumb swept over the tip of his length and came away slick. He felt Lan Wangji’s shuddering breaths at his shoulder and whimpered again. “Lan Zhan, s-so fucking—haa, hnngh—so fucking good…so—ah! I’m—I’m so close, please—Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji’s hand matched his pace, both of which sped up. He pressed his other hand to the bed below Wei Wuxian, groaning and curling forward as Wei Wuxian moaned and writhed beneath him.

            Wei Wuxian bit into his own hand thoughtlessly, squeezing his eyes shut as his pleasure reached its peak.

            He came first, as always. The feeling hit him so hard that he couldn’t control the volume of his strangled cry. Even biting his hand did little to muffle it. His hips arched up, and his length pulsed violently in Lan Wangji’s hand. He grinded back and forth, chasing his pleasure so adamantly that his knee slipped out from under him. Lan Wangji caught him, stroking him through the blinding release with dedication.

            He followed right after, moaning Wei Wuxian’s name against his back. He slammed into him a final time and stilled, biting into his shoulder. His other fingers dug into the bed, knuckles turning white. The intensity of it made him more vocal than usual and left him repeating Wei Wuxian’s name in quiet, breathless groans.

            Both remained suspended for several long seconds, waves crashing over them and keeping them tensed. Lan Wangji’s hips began slow gyrations, his hand still working against Wei Wuxian’s pulsing length.

            Wei Wuxian choked on his moans. His limbs quaked, and his teeth sunk deeper into his hand.

            His pleasure was the first to fade, and then he collapsed heavily onto the bed. Lan Wangji followed him once more, dropping beside him.

            After a moment, Wei Wuxian grew far too sensitive to feel the blankets beneath him. He rolled over onto his back, a low, satisfied sound slipping from his raw throat.

            His mind grew fuzzy in the aftermath. One second, Lan Wangji was beside him, panting violently, and the next, a warm cloth was running across his skin, cleaning him with gentle movements.

            It took him a long time to regain some clarity. When he finally did, he managed to pull himself upright.

            Lan Wangji was returning to the bed with a cup of water. He sat close beside him and offered it with tender eyes. “Drink, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s throat was sore and dry. He gave an off-key hum, drank it greedily, and gasped upon finishing. When he spoke, his voice was wobbly. “I need to make you angry more often, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers were delicate on him now, soothing over the marks he had made. He found the deepest one—the imprint Wei Wuxian had made when he’d bitten into his own hand—and his touch grew even gentler. “I did not mean to be so…”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Hard?”

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitched at the wordplay.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “I love it when you are.”

            Lan Wangji refilled the water and passed the cup back to Wei Wuxian, who gulped it in one go. As he refilled it a third time, he wondered quietly, “…Why did you jump out like you did today?”

            Wei Wuxian drank this one more slowly. He thought about joking, teasing, or dismissing the subject entirely. Instead, he lowered the cup, tracing its rim with his thumb. “I was moving faster than I could think. I saw Hanguang-Jun surrounded by more than I thought he could handle, so…I got between you.”

            Lan Wangji hesitated and then exhaled slowly. “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “I know, I know. I know it’s stupid. My Hanguang-Jun can handle anything! But…in the moment, I just…I couldn’t…I was afraid that…” He trailed off with a sigh.

            Lan Wangji closed his eyes. He brought Wei Wuxian closer so he could hug him securely. “I am sorry.”

            Wei Wuxian was quick to shake his head. “Don’t be. We don’t say that to each other, remember? If anything, I’m the one who should be saying it.”

            Lan Wangji, “I was out of line. You were also worried.”

            Wei Wuxian turned in his arms. He set the cup aside, then pushed Lan Wangji back against the bed. He crawled over him and chuckled against his chest, “I guess that’s just the way it is now, mm? Us, always worrying about each other. That’s not so bad, is it?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers absentmindedly brushed the tangles from Wei Wuxian’s hair. “Please…”

            Wei Wuxian picked his head up. “Please what?”

            Lan Wangji, “…You must be careful, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and leaned closer until their lips were nearly touching. “Must I?”

            Lan Wangji, “I cannot…” He seemed to struggle before simply repeating, “Please.”

            Wei Wuxian’s heart shook at the weight of his first words. He could fill in the blanks, of course. Cannot lose you, not again.

            Eyes stinging at such a scenario, he closed the distance between them. The kiss was slow and tender, directly contrasting the heat from before.

            Lan Wangji’s fingers drifted across his jaw. Even after they parted, he didn’t open his eyes for a long time. When he did, his gaze burned with raw affection.

            Wei Wuxian took his fingers and pressed his lips against each one. “I promise, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji kissed him with a faint nod. He rolled them onto their sides, hugging Wei Wuxian tightly.

            Wei Wuxian snickered as he snuggled as close as possible. “After all…who am I to say no to Hanguang-Jun?”

Chapter Text

It was just after midnight and pouring by the time Lan Wangji returned to Lotus Pier. The rain beat against his umbrella relentlessly and pooled on the muddy sides of the road.

            Wei Wuxian had always told him that Lotus Pier was very different from the Cloud Recesses. It was on nights like tonight that that became even more apparent.

            Even if it weren’t past nine, the disciples of the Lan Sect would have already been inside on such a rainy night. Lan Wangji had spent countless nights of his childhood in such a way, meditating, studying, practicing calligraphy, or playing his guqin until either the rain stopped or it was time to sleep.    

            But despite the late hour and poor weather, several people were still wandering around Lotus Pier. They walked with one another, chattered happily, and waited in line for late-night snacks on the docks. Though Lotus Pier had indeed changed quite a bit over the years, Lan Wangji could easily picture a youthful Wei Wuxian on those same docks, eating happily and playing around.

            As Hanguang-Jun passed by the night-owl disciples, many were surprised to see that even the hems of his immaculate robes had somehow escaped the mud.

            Lan Wangji had been gone since early that morning. He had been called back to the Cloud Recesses to assist with a soul summoning ritual the elders of the Lan Sect had been struggling with for several days. Wei Wuxian, after some deliberation, had decided to wait for him in Lotus Pier.

            There were three reasons for this. One, he wanted to try to spend some time with Jiang Cheng again. Two, he knew A-Yuan and Lan Jingyi were gone on a night-hunt, leaving only the elders of the sect, who thought Wei Wuxian was evil and had turned Hanguang-Jun away from the righteous path, and Lan Qiren, whose opinion was undoubtedly even worse than that. Not wanting to make things difficult on Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian had thought it best if he stayed behind for a few hours.

            And three, he had teased Lan Wangji shamelessly that even the brief time spent apart would only make their evening together all the more passionate—though he had used an entirely different adjective.

            Though it was late, Lan Wangji had fully expected Wei Wuxian to still be with Jiang Cheng; after all, Wei Wuxian didn’t like being alone, and late nights were nothing new to him.

            However, when he reached the door to their room, he found it open a few inches. No candles were lit within, and it was utterly silent.

            Bichen unsheathed an inch to provide a radiant glow of icy light. It washed over the room, revealing a dark-clothed, rain-soaked figure sprawled face-down on the floor.

            At once, Lan Wangji lurched forward. He dropped the umbrella outside and hurried to the figure’s side, rolling him over with care. “Wei Ying?”

            The heady scent of liquor clung to Wei Wuxian like a second skin. It was so strong that it made a small crease form between Lan Wangji’s eyebrows.

            At first, the scent was a bit relieving—Wei Wuxian was drunk, not injured—but such solace was fleeting.

            “Wei Ying?”

            At the sound of Lan Wangji’s voice, Wei Wuxian stirred. His eyes opened blearily, and he blinked with open confusion. It took a moment for him to register who knelt beside him, and then he burst, “Lan Zhan!!! You’re back!!!”

            Lan Wangji checked him for injuries, fingers caressing the back of his head. “Why are you on the floor, Wei Ying?” As usual, his tone grew softer on the name.

            Wei Wuxian seemed puzzled once more. “The floor…? Oh! I fell.”

            “You fell?”

            “Yes!”

            “Are you alright?”

            “Yes!”

            “Why did you not get up?”

            “…”

            Wei Wuxian blinked a few times and then cracked up. “Hahaha, that’s a very good question, Lan Zhan! You always ask the very best questions, hahaha, did you know that, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t find any injuries and helped Wei Wuxian to his feet. He supported his weight as they walked. His own clothes were soaked through where Wei Wuxian’s damp robes pressed into them. When he softly repeated, “Are you alright?” it was clear he didn’t just mean physically.

            Wei Wuxian was busy touching every single thing on their path to the bed. He nearly knocked over an accordion room divider as he answered, “Yes! Spent the whole day with Jiang Cheng. Talked about lots and lots of stuff. Hehe, he’s still pretty funny when he lets his guard down. Did you know that he can be funny, Lan Zhan? I bet you didn’t. You’ve only seen his ugly sides…but he can be really funny sometimes. It was good, it was good. We also had a few drinks, hahaha.”

            Lan Wangji helped him sit on the bed. In a soft tone, he replied, “Mm. I can tell.”

            Wei Wuxian thought the response was too quiet. He stuck his lower lip out. “Are you mad?”

            Lan Wangji took his muddy boots off for him. “Of course not, Wei Ying.”

            Relieved, Wei Wuxian teased, “Though, it’s okay if you are. I like it when you’re mad, too.”

            From the state of his robes, it was obvious Wei Wuxian had stumbled and fallen more than once on the walk. Mud stained the knees of his trousers, very likely seeping through to the skin beneath, and one of his wrist ribbons was falling off.

            More worrisome, though, was the fact that he had begun to shiver. The cold rain had worked its way through his clothes, settling into his bones.

            Lan Wangji lit the candles within the room and murmured, “I will ready a bath.”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “Too tired, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji was lighting the last candle by the bed. At the statement, he leaned over and kissed Wei Wuxian’s forehead. “I will do the work. You must warm up.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Well, if that’s all, there are far better ways to warm me up…”

            Lan Wangji let the teasing comment slide as he filled a cup with water. He brought over. “Drink this…the whole thing. Mm. You must get out of these clothes, Wei Ying. I will ready the bath. Okay?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded vigorously. “Hehe, okay!”

            Lan Wangji turned to get the water going, working diligently and quietly. After a while, though, Wei Wuxian still hadn’t started undressing. He was just sitting on the bed, watching Lan Wangji with wide eyes.

            “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Nothing, nothing! Just…you look so beautiful tonight, Lan Zhan! I mean even more so than usual! So beautiful…and yet you’re over there, making up my bath and taking such good care of me…How did I get so lucky?! I feel so bad for everyone else that they don’t have a Lan Zhan. But…I also don’t want everyone to have a Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan! You can’t let everyone have a Lan Zhan; you’re my Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips pressed together as he rambled. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian seemed appeased, “All mine, hehe. Incidentally, I’m all yours, too! No one else gets a Wei Ying, either. Oh!!! Lan Zhan!!!”

            At the sudden shout, Lan Wangji glanced up. “What is it?”

            “Look, look, look! Look at me, look at what I found!!!” Wei Wuxian reached into his pocket to fish something out. It took almost a full minute for his fine motor skills to cooperate with him. “Got it! Here! For you! It’s in the shape of a heart. It’s heart-shaped, Lan Zhan! Isn’t that sooo cute? Do you like it?!”

            Lan Wangji took the rock from Wei Wuxian’s fingers. He looked at it before setting it on the bedside table with care. “Mm. It is very nice, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian was so happy that he kicked his feet, nearly clobbering Lan Wangji in the process. “I knew you’d like it, Lan Zhan!!! That’s why I picked it up. I saw it and thought, ‘Lan Zhan will love this!’” He suddenly grew very serious. He looked up at Lan Wangji with a pitifully sad expression.

            Lan Wangji knelt before him, reaching for his cheek. “What is it, Wei Ying?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Do you think it’s sad?”

            “Do I think what is sad?”

            Wei Wuxian clarified miserably, “The rock!”

            Lan Wangji, “Why?”

            Wei Wuxian seemed to be getting more upset. “Because…because I took it from its home! I separated it from its family, and now it can’t ever go back, because it can’t walk—Lan Zhan!!! What did I do?! I feel awful! How could I do that to such an innocent—”

            Lan Wangji took Wei Wuxian’s floundering hand. He kissed the back of it as he interlaced their fingers. “Shh, it is alright, Wei Ying. If it troubles you, we will return it. Do you remember where you found it?”

            Wei Wuxian brightened up at once and tried to stand. “Oh! Yes! Lan Zhan! Let’s go!”

            Lan Wangji caught him. “First, you must warm up, Wei Ying. You will get sick.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Okay, okay…then…can we put the rock back in the morning?”

            Lan Wangji, “Yes.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, relieved. “Okay, okay.”

            By that point, the water had finished boiling, so Lan Wangji stood to fill the tub.

            Wei Wuxian tried to undo his sash belt. After several long seconds of no success whatsoever, Lan Wangji took over.

            Wei Wuxian happily let him. “Hehe, Lan Zhan, you’ve gotten so quick at undressing me…”

            As Lan Wangji folded the dirty clothes and set them aside for washing, Wei Wuxian got up and stumbled over to the tub. He nearly tipped into it headfirst before Lan Wangji steadied him.

            “Careful.”

            Wei Wuxian cocked his head. “Since when do we have two tubs? Lan Zhan! Were you afraid we’d break another one? Hahahaha, what good planning!”

            Lan Wangji helped him into the hot water, at which Wei Wuxian moaned rather loudly. “There is only one tub, Wei Ying…How much did you drink?” He had seen Wei Wuxian drunk plenty of times, of course, but never to this degree.

            Wei Wuxian hit his palms against the surface of the water idly. “I don’t know! I stopped counting after…hmm…ten!”

            Lan Wangji stopped what he was doing, eyes darting up to Wei Wuxian’s. “Ten what?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned and let his head fall to the rim of the tub. He sang happily, “Jars! I bet Jiang Cheng that…that I could do it, hahahaha. The brat didn’t believe me! Can you believe that?! So, of course, I had to prove it to him. You know how I feel about being bet about something, Lan Zhan.”

            An unreadable look flashed across Lan Wangji’s eyes. With a complicated expression, he reached for Wei Wuxian’s wrist and used his spiritual powers to determine his condition.

            Wei Wuxian pouted again. “Don’t be angry…”

            “…I am not. But that is too much, Wei Ying, even for you.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded in agreement. “I know! It wasn’t even good liquor! Ugh! How unbearable!”

            Lan Wangji, “Do you feel sick?”

            Wei Wuxian bobbed his head. “A little. And a lot! In waves, Lan Zhan, in waves, hahahaha. A little and then a lot and then a little and then—oh…I’m making myself dizzy…”

            Lan Wangji didn’t find anything dangerous with his condition. He pulled a bucket over in precaution, then went over to get another cup of water.

            Already, Wei Wuxian was playing around again. He splashed water everywhere. “This really was a great idea, Lan Zhan! Is this water magic?! I feel sooo much better!”

            Lan Wangji handed the cup over. “I am glad. Drink this.”

            “That’s okay! I’m not thirsty.”

            “Be good and drink.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled and teased, “What happens if I’m good?”

            Lan Wangji gave him a tender look. “You will not feel sick.”

            Wei Wuxian slapped the tub as he laughed. “You have a point! Okay, Lan Zhan, okay. I’ll drink it…but only because you were funny, hahahaha.” He took it over and gulped it down greedily. Upon finishing, he smacked the tub again. “Good water!”

            Lan Wangji caught his hand when he tried to hit it a third time. “Careful. It will break.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Hahahaha, my fault, my fault. What a mess that would be!”

            Lan Wangji refilled his cup once more.

            Wei Wuxian pouted, “Again?! I can’t fit any more liquids, Lan Zhan. I’ll burst!”

            Lan Wangji, “Sip it, at least. Please.”

            Wei Wuxian gazed at him with unfocused eyes before he laughed. “Aah! How can I say no to you?! You really know how to play me, Lan Zhan! Alright, alright…” With both hands, he took the cup over and drained it.

            The gesture was so faintly childish that Lan Wangji leaned in to kiss his forehead. He removed his own outer robe, rolled up sleeves, and knelt by the tub.

            Wei Wuxian was in such a hurry to tease him that he almost choked on his water. “Lan Zhan, you’re on the wrong side of the tub…”

            Lan Wangji, “Be good and drink.”

            Wei Wuxian giggled quietly and went back to his cup.

            Starting with his shoulders, Lan Wangji gently cleaned his skin. He used slow motions that made Wei Wuxian relax into the hot water.

            As Lan Wangji ran the cloth over his body, Wei Wuxian got a familiar look in his eyes. Once Lan Wangji reached his lower abdomen, he teased, “Lan Zhan, you missed a spot…”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. “Do not misbehave.”

            Wei Wuxian’s laugh came out in a giggle. “But I need to be clean…”

            Lan Wangji finally smiled and continued with care. His back and stomach were easy enough to clean. His legs were trickier, because Wei Wuxian kept trying to play around, but eventually, he was able to clean the mud and sweat from Wei Wuxian’s skin. He draped the cloth over the side of the tub, refilled the water in Wei Wuxian’s cup, and then reached for the red ribbon Wei Wuxian always wore.

            As he let his hair down and used the tub’s spoon to wet the long strands, Wei Wuxian became incredibly still. He watched Lan Wangji with awe, smiling very softly. After a long moment, he reached up with one hand. Heedless of the water dripping off his skin, he ran his fingers down Lan Wangji’s cheek. “So beautiful, Lan Zhan…”

            Lan Wangji looked up at him tenderly. He took Wei Wuxian’s fingers and brought them to his lips before he continued with his task.

            Wei Wuxian began to babble, “You really are too beautiful, Lan Zhan! And far too good to me. I don’t deserve it at all. I love you so much it hurts, Lan Zhan, aah!” As if to confirm this, he pressed a hand over his heart. “It’s scary, Lan Zhan, how much I love you! I mean, it really does scare me sometimes, because…because what if…Lan Zhan, what if something ever…”

            Lan Wangji kneeled up to kiss him—first his forehead, then his cheek, and lastly his lips, where he lingered. “Shh, it is okay. I am here.”

            Wei Wuxian held onto him with wet hands. “I love it when you say that, Lan Zhan. It makes me feel so safe! Say it again!”

            Lan Wangji, “I am here, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned happily, “Okay, good! Because I’m here, too, Lan Zhan! I want you and only you forever! I won’t let anything or anyone ever separate us ever again!!!” A split second after the declaration, he burst with a loud, “Pfft! Hahahahahahaha, that was so cheesy, Lan Zhan!!! Did you hear that I just said?! Hahahahahaha, I can’t believe I just said that!” He slapped the tub harder.

            Lan Wangji caught his fingers gently and repeated, “It will break.”

            Wei Wuxian teased, “You’d know, of course…Hehe, okay, I’ll behave, I’ll behave. I’m behaving!”

            Lan Wangji returned to his hair, lathering the soap through the dark strands.

            Wei Wuxian settled back innocently. After another moment, he hummed, “You’re so good at that now, Lan Zhan…mm, feels so good, aah!!!”

            Lan Wangji smiled softly at the exaggeration. “Mm. I am glad.” He reached for the spoon again. “Close your eyes, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian sat up and complied.

            Afterwards, Lan Wangji helped Wei Wuxian to get out of the tub and dried off.

            The more tired Wei Wuxian was, the clingier he became. It was difficult to help him dress, what with Wei Wuxian simultaneously hugging Lan Wangji and undoing his work in an effort to get them both naked. Each managed to somewhat succeed in their respective tasks—Lan Wangji got him clothed, and Wei Wuxian managed to hold onto him.

            “Love you so much, Lan Zhan, aah!”

            Using the backs of his fingers, Lan Wangji lifted Wei Wuxian’s chin gently. He kissed him with an overwhelming tenderness, then returned the words with more gravity and sincerity than anyone had a right to give a drunk person.

            Wei Wuxian coiled around Lan Wangji like a snake and pulled them both into bed.

            Once they were settled, Lan Wangji began to rub his back soothingly. “Do you want to talk about it?”

            Wei Wuxian picked his head up off Lan Wangji’s chest. “Lan Zhan! How did you know there was something on my mind? …Can you read it?!”

            Lan Wangji gave him a soft look. His fingers drifted across Wei Wuxian’s cheek before returning to his back.

            Wei Wuxian dropped his chin to Lan Wangji’s chest again. “Mm, it’s nothing much, really. It’s just that Jiang Cheng and I talked about Shijie for a while.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes closed briefly at the way his tone faltered on the honorific.

            Wei Wuxian didn’t seem to notice it himself, instead laughing, “He reminded me of this one time the three of us tried to get a present for Jiang-shushu and Yu Furen! Hahahaha, do you want to hear about it, Lan Zhan?! It really was too absurd!”

            Lan Wangji nodded, “Mm. Tell me.”

            Wei Wuxian was delighted. He wriggled around into a more comfortable position and squeezed Lan Wangji tighter. “Okay!”

            He delved into the story, talking animatedly. At one part, he made himself laugh so hard that he began wheezing; by the time he finished, his eyes were a bit red.

            He fell silent for a long time, as though reflecting. Lan Wangji continued his gentle path on his back, his other fingers interlaced with Wei Wuxian’s.

            After a while, Wei Wuxian complained in a thick voice, “Tired, Lan Zhan!! I’m gonna die if I stay up any later.”

            Lan Wangji, “Sleep. I am here.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Don’t let me roll around, alright? I want to be hugged by you all night! Okay?!”

            Lan Wangji nodded and kissed his forehead. “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Every day, right, Lan Zhan?!”

            Lan Wangji’s tone was overwhelmingly tender, even to a drunk person’s ears. “Mm. Every day.”

            Wei Wuxian started to relax. “Hehe…love you sooo much…aah, Lan Zhan…you’re so…mm…so…”

            His words fell away as he grew limp.

            Lan Wangji kissed his hair. He turned them on their sides and used his spiritual energy to check Wei Wuxian once more. The water seemed to have helped.

            He pulled the blanket over them and waved out the candles. Listening to the soft sounds of Wei Wuxian’s breathing, he fell asleep quickly.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian was having a rather unusual dream. In fact, it was oddly reminiscent of when his and Lan Wangji’s dreams had been influenced by the Mo incense burner all those months ago. Only this time, he couldn’t recall lighting any form of incense before bed, and they weren’t even at the Cloud Recesses.

            Very much like those incense dreams, he was viewing the dream from the outside. Unlike those dreams, though, he couldn’t interact. He was merely an observer, watching the events play out with no control or ability to even be heard—which he had learned through trial and error.

            In another circumstance, such a powerless situation would have had all the makings of a nightmare, but for now, nothing bad was happening. He was simply following a dream ‘Wei Wuxian’ and ‘Lan Wangji’ down a narrow dirt path.

            Judging from the way his dream self was dressed, Wei Wuxian assumed this took place during his time at the Burial Mounds. But he couldn’t recall ever walking such a path with Lan Wangji in real life.

            Watching the dream unfold, he wondered how he had ever been so dense as to not realize Lan Wangji’s feelings in his past life, because it seemed so fucking obvious to him now. He knew it was only a dream—and perhaps he was projecting the way he knew Lan Wangji felt—but if the way ‘Lan Wangji’ was looking at ‘Wei Wuxian’ now was the way he’d always looked at him, Wei Wuxian really wanted to punch himself for never noticing.

            It was obvious the dream took place after the hunt on Phoenix Mountain simply because of the way ‘Lan Wangji’s’ gaze caught on ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ lips periodically—having had a taste already, ‘Lan Wangji’ seemed to want another. But of course, even a fictional ‘Lan Wangji’ was too disciplined to act a second time on such urges; in real life, he had been furious with himself for such behavior, and, even in a dream, Wei Wuxian knew he wouldn’t deliberately do anything like that again.

            Wei Wuxian’s teeth hurt a little as he saw a reflection of his previous self. He really did look insufferably arrogant.

            This ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ hair was long, some of it tied back with his signature red ribbon. His robes were black and red, billowing out behind him quite dramatically. The flair of those robes hid, for the most part, how slender he had become during his time on Luanzang Hill. He kept his hands behind his back, striding forward with a posture that suggested he owned the very earth he walked upon.

            At his side, ‘Lan Wangji’ didn’t seem to think he looked intolerable at all. His gaze lingered occasionally, never straying too far.

            Wei Wuxian really couldn’t bear looking at himself for long, so he turned his attention happily to ‘Hanguang-Jun.’

            Even in a dream, he was utterly beautiful—so beautiful that Wei Wuxian felt a pang in both his chest and his lower abdomen. He wished he could interfere with the dream, if for no other reason than to go over to ‘Lan Wangji’ and hug him as tight as he could—perhaps to make up a little for the obliviousness of his past self.

            Idly, he wondered, What would have happened if I’d ever seen in Lan Zhan’s eyes back then what I see now? Would I have even understood it? Probably not…So many times, he tried to communicate it in his own quiet way, and I was too stupid to notice. I really did piss so many days away.

            In the dream, ‘Lan Wangji’ was as elegant and regal as always. His robes were pristine and blindingly white, despite the dust of the road. He seemed as ethereal as a god amongst men, walking with a slow, dignified grace. One hand held Bichen while his other arm was kept elegantly behind his back, giving him an upright, righteous posture. His forehead ribbon fluttered behind him, swept away occasionally by the same breeze that ruffled his robes.

            At his side, ‘Wei Wuxian’ grew restless. He pulled Chenqing out and began to twirl it between his fingers casually. “Should be just ahead, Lan Zhan.”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ light-colored eyes drifted over to him before returning to the path.

            Again, Wei Wuxian wanted to punch every version of himself from back then, because how had he never seen the flicker of emotion such looks held?!

            In his usual indifferent tone, ‘Lan Wangji’ asked, “Where are we going?”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ mused, “Ah, didn’t I say?”

            ‘Lan Wangji,’ “You did not.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ clicked his tongue, “Ah, how discourteous of me. Lan Zhan—er, Hanguang-Jun, I have a rare treat for you! To thank you for helping with Wen Ning and to commemorate us running into one another again, I want to take you somewhere nice.”

            Nothing changed in ‘Lan Wangji’s’ expression, but his next step seemed to hesitate. “There is no need.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian,’ “To commemorate?”

            ‘Lan Wangji,’ “…To thank me.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ waved a hand. “Well, I’ll let you decide that after you see the place. I’ve heard it really is beautiful!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ glanced at him. His gaze fell a little, getting caught on a pair of curved lips before he looked ahead again.

            Wei Wuxian wondered if such thing had ever really happened so often when he hadn’t been paying attention—had Lan Wangji always been so easy to read, or was his own mind making Lan Wangji’s hidden desire more obvious?

            ‘Lan Wangji’ wondered quietly, “What sort of place is it?”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ grinned, “That would ruin the surprise, Lan Zhan. You’ll find out soon enough.” Seconds after the statement, ‘Wei Wuxian’ stopped twirling his dizi. “Ah! I can hear it!”

            Indeed, the subtle stream of water could be heard now through the trees.   

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ skipped ahead, seeming to retain a flicker of his past—and future—self.

            He arrived first, grinning in delight. He glanced over his shoulder with a teasing look. “What’d I say, Lan Zhan? Don’t you like it? Isn’t it pretty?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ stopped beside him, taking in the view.

            The hot spring was rather large, almost as big as the cold spring in the Cloud Recesses. Unlike the cold spring, though, steam coiled off the water and obscured much of the area.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ sighed contentedly, “You always stand in your sect’s cold spring; this will be far more enjoyable. It may not help with cultivation as much, but it’ll be a lot more fun than freezing. I can’t wait to get in there. Wanna know how I heard about it?” At once, he started shedding his clothes and telling the story. His robes fell away, revealing prominent collarbones and the sunburst brand beneath them.

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ gaze fell as ‘Wei Wuxian’ spoke and undressed—first to the brand, then to the scar on his abdomen Jiang Cheng had left, and lastly, to the soft muscles leading to his trousers—before he managed to look away.

            Watching, Wei Wuxian felt heat coil in his stomach at such a look. I wonder if Lan Zhan really wanted me this much back then, or if I’m just projecting how much he loves me now. But…aiyo, what a cruel dream that I can’t even touch him. Even crueler is that he isn’t here with me to watch this, too. Lan Zhan, where are you?! Look at your past checking me out with such heavy eyes!

            ‘Lan Wangji’ was still expressionless. He moved his gaze to the side, watching the trees rustle in the light breeze. His posture was as upright and perfect as always, nothing at all to indicate the inner turmoil he must be feeling—the longingness of being so close to the one he loved and wanted but unable to touch, to look, to feel, to taste.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ had finished his explanation at the same time that he was kicking his trousers off, baring all. “Have you ever been in a hot spring before? I have! It’s really nice! It’ll help you relax.”

            In an indifferent tone, ‘Lan Wangji’ replied quietly, “There is no need.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ sat in the hot spring, giving a long sigh. “Mm, feels so good. Come on, Lan Zhan, why are you just standing there? I feel like you’ve turned into a lion statue. Don’t tell me you’re embarrassed to undress in front of me, hahaha. What’s there to be embarrassed about?”

            A breeze swept through the hot spring, carrying ‘Lan Wangji’s’ hair and forehead ribbon with it. His eyes fell to the ground, then slowly drifted to ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ profile when the latter leaned back against the rocks. His gaze caught again—first on the scars that lined ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ body from his experiments, battles, and accidents, and then on the softness of his skin, the outline of his delicate muscles, the slenderness of his waist, the brightness of his expression. ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyebrows pulled very slightly together, as though he knew it was wrong but couldn’t stop himself—even more so, as though he wanted to do something but held himself back.

            Wei Wuxian felt himself grow hot at such a lingering, wanting gaze. He knew for sure he was projecting now, because Lan Wangji had been far too composed, far too dignified, to behave in such a way back then.

            Grinning, he teased, “Ah, Lan Zhan, will you do something about it now that you finally have me all to yourself?”

            Of course, neither in the dream could hear him.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ remained completely oblivious to the look he was receiving. He continued boldly, “You and I have seen each other naked before, remember? Well, mostly naked. Besides, we’re both men, so what’s the big deal?”

            Wei Wuxian’s nose wrinkled. I really was a jackass like this, wasn’t I?

            ‘Lan Wangji’ looked away. He swallowed quietly, focusing on the trees again even as his earlobes darkened.

            Wei Wuxian simultaneously wanted to kiss him and hug him, because he clearly was suffering from his own restraint. How torturous must this be, even for a dream version of him? So close to the one loved—naked, to boot—and yet he couldn’t cross that line, no matter how much he wanted to.

            Perhaps it was wrong, but Wei Wuxian would be lying if he said he wasn’t incredibly turned on by this. In bed, he loved—craved—denying Lan Wangji a touch or a taste for as long as he could. He loved how much it riled Lan Wangji up, loved watching him fall apart, loved seeing the desperation in his normally impassive eyes build and build until Wei Wuxian finally let him take over.

            He edged closer to the hot spring, eager to see what would happen. How long would ‘Lan Wangji’ be able to stand it until he gave in? Would he get into the pond and kiss ‘Wei Wuxian’ against the rocks? Would he pull him out and roll them into the grass? Would he bend him over the edge of the hot spring and punish him for years of teasing? Would it be slow and deep and passionate, or would he fuck him hard and fast and desperate?

            However, the closer Wei Wuxian got, the more he realized there was something off about the pool of water his dream self was bathing in. There was a sweet, delicate scent wafting off with the steam—one all too familiar to him.

            Wei Wuxian blinked and then started cackling. Is the water actually…alcohol?! Hahahahahahaha, only in my dreams would that be the case! I really am easy to predict, aren’t I?

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ glanced back at his rigid companion once more. “Lan Zhan~, are you going to join me or not?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ replied quietly, “I will not.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ sighed and reached for Chenqing. “Alright, fine. Well, if that’s how it is, then I’m going to have to summon someone to keep me company. I think a beautiful young maiden is just what the Yiling Laozu needs.” He lifted the dizi to his lips.

            But before he could even play a single note, ‘Lan Wangji’s’ hand clamped down around Chenqing, squeezing hard enough to break a dizi of lesser quality.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ grinned victoriously and yanked the flute to one side.

            In reality, Lan Wangji never would have been so easily toppled, but in the dream, he went crashing into the hot spring without a sound.

            His robes were soaked through at once, clinging to his lower waist and thighs as he gave ‘Wei Wuxian’ a deadly look. He shook his head and seethed, “…Utterly shameless!”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ slapped the water with a laugh. “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan! You’re so predictable! I was only joking, and you took me so seriously, hahahaha!” He stood up. “How can you always act so jealous of dead things?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ immediately turned his head away, ears flushing a rich crimson as ‘Wei Wuxian’ walked closer. “…Wuliao!”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ beat over with a grin. He pressed the tip of his dizi under ‘Lan Wangji’s’ chin and turned his head back around. “Oh? What’s this, Lan Zhan? Are you getting…shy?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyes were a bit wide. His lips parted with his increasingly fast breaths. He indeed looked flushed, eyes fixed very firmly on ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ and nowhere else. “…Wuliao.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ purred, “Tch, you always say that, Lan Zhan. Am I really so boring to you? Then why are you getting so nervous, hm?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ gaze seemed to lose focus. He blinked, a small crease forming between his eyebrows.

            Watching, Wei Wuxian burst out laughing. He was intimately familiar with this look. Only in a dream could Lan Zhan get drunk off alcoholic hot spring water. This is a masterpiece! Hahahahaha!

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ wasn’t as amused. Concern flashed through his eyes, and he knelt before him, worrying, “Lan Zhan, I was only kidding. Are you okay? What’s wrong?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ pressed his fingers to his forehead. “I…” He stood unsteadily, frowning deeper.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ followed him and held his arm up. “Lan Zhan? What is it, are you alright? You look pale. Come on, let’s rest on the—”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyelids fluttered and finally slipped shut. His knees gave out, and he pitched forward.

            With a yelp, ‘Wei Wuxian’ managed to catch him but couldn’t hope to bear his weight. They both fell back into the shallow pool, one on top of the other.

            “Ah! Lan Zhan! You’re so…heavy! Get up! Lan Zhan? Lan Zhan, what’s wrong?! What are you doing?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ was completely motionless over him, face pressed against his neck.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ tried to scramble out from under him. “Ah! Why are you so heavy?! Lan Zhan! Hey, can you hear me? Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, please get up, okay? I’m sorry! I was only kidding! Are you awake? Are you conscious? Can you hear me?! Are you ignoring me on purpose?! Lan Zhan!!!”

            Wei Wuxian really thought he was being a bit dramatic until he glanced down between them. Heat climbed up his spine, and he snorted. There was no telling what drunk ‘Lan Wangji’ would do when he woke up to such an erotic situation…

            They had fallen a bit awkwardly, with ‘Wei Wuxian’ in the most awkward position of all. One of ‘Lan Wangji’s’ thighs was pressed up firmly between his legs.

            It really was quite a predicament, but an understandable one. After all, despite all his boasting and teasing, Wei Wuxian had never been with anyone, never even kissed anyone, before Lan Wangji. He’d never had an encounter like this, never had someone touch such a private place before. His body was reacting shamelessly to that touch now.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ panicked even more, likely imagining the last thing either of them needed was for ‘Hanguang-Jun’ to wake up and realize ‘the Yiling Laozu’ had gotten turned on by all this.

            “Lan Zhan, g-get off! Lan Zhan, I’m serious! What’s wrong with you?! Can you hear me? Are you alright? Get up, please, Lan Zhan!”

            Slowly, ‘Lan Wangji’ began to stir. He exhaled and lifted his head languidly off ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ shoulder. Confusion was written across his eyes—a look the watching Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but find utterly adorable.

            It took a moment for the drunk ‘Lan Wangji’ to realize the position he was in, laying on top of a naked ‘Wei Wuxian.’ He looked at him from the impossibly close distance but didn’t get up.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ swallowed thickly, “L-Lan Zhan? What are you doing?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ gaze fell. It tracked across his body, taking in every inch of him. He shifted a little to one side, revealing where ‘Wei Wuxian’ was now hard against his own stomach.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ didn’t often get embarrassed, but he covered his face with both hands. “Lan Zhan, just—don’t get mad, okay? I didn’t—this isn’t at all how it looks! It’s just, you fell on me, and I-I—really, it’s your fault, for…”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ breath shuddered out of him. His ears darkened even more as his gaze fixed drunkenly on ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ length.

            Watching, Wei Wuxian chuckled. He sat up on his knees, edging closer to watch how ‘Lan Wangji’ would react.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ was far less excited. He groaned, “Stop staring at it! It-it’ll go away. I wasn’t—I didn’t mean…would you get off already?! I just…just need to…” He trailed off when he saw the look on the other’s face—one that definitely wasn’t angry.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ finally lifted his gaze, pupils dilated.

            Even in the dream, ‘Wei Wuxian’ seemed to know what it meant. A blush creeped up his cheeks even as he feigned ignorance. “L-Lan Zhan, why are you looking at me like this? Are you mad?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ breathed a soft, “Wei Ying…”

            The sound was dripping with so much want, so much love, that Wei Wuxian’s lips parted. His heart flipped in his chest as heat shook through his body. He pointedly kept his hands off himself, but he felt his length pulse in response to such an utterance of his name. He couldn’t help but murmur back, “Lan Zhan…”

            In the hot spring, ‘Wei Wuxian’ also squirmed under the weight of such a tone. “Don’t get mad—this isn’t what it looks mmf!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ cut him off with an urgent kiss. His fingers lifted to ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ cheek as he pressed into his body again. Within seconds, he was deepening the kiss, parting his lips to lick his way into the other’s stunned mouth.

            Wei Wuxian watched breathlessly as ‘Lan Wangji’ made a soft noise. His hips grinded a little where they pressed against ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ leg, and Wei Wuxian tracked the movement hungrily. Fuck, he’s so beautiful. Lan Zhan!!! Where are you?! Why aren’t you watching this with me?!

            ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ eyes fluttered shut. His breaths rushed out of him, and he released a low moan when the thigh pressed against his length shifted. Pleasure spiked up his body, making his hands twitch.

            But after a heady moment, shock returned to ‘Wei Wuxian,’ and he pushed ‘Lan Wangji’ back enough to talk. He panted, “L-Lan Zhan, you’re acting so strange! What’s wrong? Why are you doing this?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ gazed at his lips, transfixed. “Wei Ying…”

            “Lan Zh—mmf!”

            This kiss was even more heated this time, soft, slick sounds echoing to Wei Wuxian’s ears before ‘Lan Wangji’ moved. He kissed down ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ jaw to mouth at his neck with an audible groan. As though he couldn’t bear to stay in one place, ‘Lan Wangji’ continued lower. He licked, bit, and kissed his way down ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ chest.

            Breaths heaving, ‘Wei Wuxian’ stared at him in open confusion. His fingers clutched at his robes as his length twitched between them. “L-Lan Zhan, wh—ngh, ah!” ‘Lan Wangji’s’ tongue pressed down against a nipple, sucking on it lightly.

            Wei Wuxian’s hips were grinding a little into the air as he watched. He bit his lip, fixated on where ‘Lan Wangji’s’ mouth moved against his dream self. He could even see the flicker of ‘Lan Wangji’s’ tongue when he pressed it down with another kiss.

            His hands curled on his thighs as his length pulsed again. It really is cruel that Lan Zhan isn’t here with me! I want him so badly right now, want him to watch what I’m watching, see what he does to me when he takes me apart like this…though, I suppose he always sees it…but it’s different like this!

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ trembled as ‘Lan Wangji’ continued to lick and kiss his way down his stomach. “L-Lan Zhan…wh-what are you—ah—what are you doing? Haa, what…hnngh, wh-what do you—Lan Zhan!” ‘Wei Wuxian’ panicked and grabbed ‘Lan Wangji’s’ collar when he reached the place where his length was leaking against his stomach. It twitched visibly at the sight of someone—especially ‘Lan Wangji’—so close to it. “Wh-what are you doing, Lan Zhan? Just…just what do you want?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ met his gaze heavily. “You.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ length gave another pulse. “You—what did you say?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ replied with burning sincerity, “I want you, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian’s hands inched higher up his thighs. Fuck, want him so fucking badly right now. He can’t just say something like that in my dream and not appear to fuck me!! How cruel! Is this punishment for all my teasing?!

            Before ‘Wei Wuxian’ could even process that statement or understand its implication, ‘Lan Wangji’ was taking him in his mouth.

            As ‘Wei Wuxian’ threw his head back and writhed at the wet heat, Wei Wuxian finally lost his resolve. He moved the heel of his hand to where he was straining against his trousers. A low moan rattled out of him in unison with his dream self, but he couldn’t care less about watching himself receive such care. He was fixated on ‘Lan Wangji,’ on the way his eyelids fluttered shut and his eyebrows pulled together, on the way his fingers clutched at ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ thigh and his own hips seemed to grind down once on the bed of the hot spring.

            Wei Wuxian wished more than anything that he was the one under such a touch. He knew exactly how dizzyingly good it felt—how his tongue laved over the tip with fervency, how his fingers caressed the sensitive underside, how he didn’t look away from Wei Wuxian, eyes drinking in his almost distressed expression whenever they were in such a position.

            Of course, even with such pleasure, ‘Wei Wuxian’ wouldn’t shut up. Confusion and pleasure broke from him in bursts as he held ‘Lan Wangji’s’ forehead ribbon tight in one hand. “Wh-what are you…ah! Lan Zhan, y-you don’t have to…mm…don’t have to…haa…h-how are you…Lan Zhan! F-feels so fucking…hnngh!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyes squeezed shut with such moans. He offered a low sound of his own, fingers digging into ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ thigh. The vibration sent a wild rush of pleasure up ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ entire body, and his subsequent moan echoed off the mountains around them. His hips thrusted up into the wet heat surrounding him, chasing the feeling with abandon now.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ held his waist down with one hand. He didn’t take much of him, covering the rest with his other hand as he lavished the head with attention—another projection of Wei Wuxian’s. Lan Wangji only gave him such attention now, after doing it a few times and learning what made Wei Wuxian writhe.

            Wei Wuxian’s brow was furrowed as he watched. His eyes felt glossy and hazy, flitting between the expression on ‘Lan Wangji’s’ face and the way his hips were moving against the bed of the hot spring, as though he couldn’t stop himself.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ cries grew more frantic, pleasure shaking his voice.          

            Hearing so many moans of his own name, ‘Lan Wangji’s’ expression grew almost pained. His fingers left long marks across ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ thigh as he continued in earnest.

            Wei Wuxian’s own hips were rutting into his palm. His other hand rested on the ground, keeping him balanced as he watched with want. Fuck, Lan Zhan, need you so fucking much. Where are you, where are you, where are you…

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ suddenly tensed up. He cried out, “Lan Zhan! W-wait, get off, I’m gonna—Lan Zhan!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ moaned, fingers tightening even more as he ignored the warning. His eyes fell shut again, brows knitting together.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ released another strangled sound, threw his head back, and arched his back as he came.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ pulled back a little but not away. Wei Wuxian watched with parted lips as ‘Lan Wangji’ swallowed ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ release, panting and grasping at ‘Wei Wuxian’ with urgency.

            Wei Wuxian’s vision went a little fuzzy as he watched ‘Lan Wangji’s’ hips stutter against the bed of the hot spring. In reality, it was very unlikely Lan Wangji would lose control and come from this—after all, he had incredible stamina—but Wei Wuxian could have such unrealistic dreams, couldn’t he?

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ gasped and moaned and cried out ‘Lan Wangji’s’ name, hips riding out the pleasure Wei Wuxian craved so much.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ finally gave a strangled, orgasmic groan of his own as his hips faltered.

            Wei Wuxian whimpered, his length pulsing as he watched ‘Lan Wangji’s’ expression crumple at the feeling.

            He didn’t have very long to appreciate it. The dream grew dark almost immediately after.

            Waking up instantly, Wei Wuxian felt a glorious pressure between his legs.

            He opened his eyes with a low moan to realize he’d been humping Lan Wangji’s thigh in his sleep. Lan Wangji was awake, gazing heatedly at him.

            Wei Wuxian moaned and picked himself up to crawl over Lan Wangji’s leg. “L-Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, can I—?”

            Lan Wangji kissed him with fervor and nodded. He pulled Wei Wuxian’s hips to him more evenly, fingers kneading into his backside.

            Wei Wuxian’s cries hitched. It only took two rolls for him to come. He broke from the kiss, releasing a strangled stream of, “Haa, haa, haa,” as he rode his pleasure out.

            Lan Wangji kissed down his neck, offering a low, breathy version of his name.

            Wei Wuxian was still hard even as he collapsed against Lan Wangji, whimpering softly. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan…hnngh…even in my dreams, you’re all I can think about…”

            Lan Wangji’s lips seemed to curve into a small smile. He bit his neck softly, then ran his tongue over the mark when Wei Wuxian gasped. In a quiet breath, he wondered, “What were you dreaming about?”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled. He kissed him with urgency again, straddled his waist, and bent to his ear. Nipping at his earlobe, he murmured in a silky voice, “Let me tell you all about it…”

Chapter Text

Surprisingly, there hadn’t really been that many times in Wei Wuxian’s life that he had ever felt particularly stupid. At times, perhaps a bit foolish, but not stupid. On the contrary, as a kid, he’d considered himself something of a prodigy.

            Which made today rather special, because today marked the first day in either lifetime that Wei Wuxian felt horribly—no, hopelessly idiotic.

            In hindsight, the merchant had tried to warn him.

            While passing outside the gates of a rather large city, a seemingly innocent merchant had been peddling his goods and offering small but expensive samples of a new type of dessert he was working on. Of course Wei Wuxian couldn’t ignore such a thing. The dessert had seemed mysterious and intriguing, and so he had bought several for the hell of it. He’d meant to take some back to Lan Wangji, but they had just been so good. Before the merchant could even finish his explanation of what was in them, Wei Wuxian had eaten them all. When the merchant had paled at how many Wei Wuxian had consumed, he’d just thought it was the artist’s woe of watching someone down so many desserts without properly appreciating them.

            And the day had started off so well, too.

            Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had risen early to set off from Lotus Pier with the Jiang Sect. All of them were on their way to the Nie Sect for a Discussion Conference—the Nie Sect’s first in over a decade. Of course, the Lan Sect would attend, along with many others. Jin Ling would be reunited with the boys he wouldn’t admit were his friends, and Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji would get to see Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi.

            They’d also get to see what had become of Nie Huaisang now that he no longer needed to feign helplessness.

            It was supposed to be a day full of intrigue, gossip, and surprises. It was supposed to be fun, damn it!

            But Wei Wuxian wasn’t having fun anymore.  

            His skin was hot, his cheeks were flushed, his vision felt unfocused, and, worst of all, he had been painfully, achingly, maddeningly hard—harder than he’d ever been in either lifetime—for well over an hour now.

            To call what he’d consumed an aphrodisiac would be a comical understatement. Wei Wuxian had tried his fair share of them, and they’d never felt like this. If he felt anything at all from them, it was usually a mild note of arousal, something that helped him get in the mood, not something that thrust him into it headfirst. He had never had an aphrodisiac wrap him in a dizzying wave of raw need, the urgency of which felt akin to the need to eat when starving.

            Another thick, heady wave of arousal crashed over him again. It thickened in the air around him until he felt certain he was exuding sexual desire in a visible aura.

            It wasn’t even that warm, and the road the Jiang Sect formation walked on was in more shade than sun, but Wei Wuxian’s entire body was slick with sweat. It slipped down his temples and disappeared under the collars of his robes. The need to rut against something, anything, everything, nearly overwhelmed his thoughts—nearly, because, despite the blood flowing steadily elsewhere, he was still desperately trying to cling to rational thought.

            The warmth over his skin was only minutely cooler than the inferno raging in his lower abdomen, which tingled and tugged at his throbbing, leaking length. It begged for literally any hint of a touch, growing unbearably harder at the way his clothes rubbed and teased him. He could feel the mess he’d already made in his trousers, and he hadn’t even been touched yet. His heart was erratic in his chest, and his hands trembled as he resisted the wild urge to palm himself into a quick, subtle release—a temptation that was slowly winning out as his fists edged a centimeter higher up his thighs.

            What made this situation even worse was the profound, debilitating knowledge that Lan Wangji was right there. Lan Wangji, whose fingers were long and slender enough to press against that spot inside him with pinpoint accuracy; whose tongue brushed against his, licked down his neck, and pressed against his skin with reverence and dedication; whose teeth nipped and tugged and bit; whose sweat, hair, and robes all fell around Wei Wuxian’s when they moved in sync with one another; whose thrusts were fervent and deep and perfect, driving with diligence into the spot Wei Wuxian loved; whose clever hands knew the best way to get him off the fastest, when they had no time for anything else; whose breaths burst against his skin unevenly; whose soft groans and whispered Wei Ying’s were more powerful than even the effect of this insane aphrodisiac.

            Wei Wuxian clenched his jaw and squeezed his eyes shut. His mind flashed with a heady image of Lan Wangji holding him close, panting against his neck as they chased their release together.

            His lips parted with a gasp that was mercifully lost amongst the noise around them.

            It had been a mistake to ride on Little Apple, whose jostling steps did nothing whatsoever to ease his suffering. But he knew his knees would give out the second he tried to walk, and there was no way he could be carried on Lan Wangji’s back without succumbing to baser urges and humping him like some kind of animal.

            In such a situation, Wei Wuxian could only lament how prominently they were featured in the Jiang Sect’s formation. He and Lan Wangji were in the most visible part of the entourage, second only to Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling.

            This was the only reason Wei Wuxian hadn’t already thrown himself over Lan Wangji and begged to be fucked—because he was still somehow, unbelievably, miraculously in some form of his right mind.

            But it really was getting absurd. His mind ruthlessly tortured him with all-too-clear memories of this morning when Lan Wangji had fucked him hard and breathlessly against the floor. They had originally been playing around in bed before accidently rolling off—which didn’t deter them in the least. Rather than get up, Lan Wangji had bent over him, pressing one hand on the wood beneath them while holding Wei Wuxian’s leg up with the other. His breathy Wei Ying’s still echoed in Wei Wuxian’s ears.

            Last night, Lan Wangji had fucked him slow and deep. It had gone on for half the night as Wei Wuxian cried and begged for mercy and moaned his way through the sweet, beautiful torture. Their fingers had been interlaced as Lan Wangji gazed at him with a lustful adoration that always made Wei Wuxian’s heart clench as much as his body.

            Fuck, he wanted that so badly now, wanted to see the way Lan Wangji always looked at him during those moments, like nothing else mattered. He wanted to hear the soft, low sounds he made when it all became too much to keep silent. He wanted to feel the way—

            Wei Wuxian clenched his jaw so tight that his teeth hurt. Fuck, this is the most ridiculous thing that’s ever happened to me. I’ve never been so turned on in my life! How the fuck am I supposed to make it to Qinghe like this?! I’ll pass out or shame myself before we’re even halfway there at this rate.

            Despite the arousal that verged on misery, Wei Wuxian thought he was doing a commendable job of hiding his situation. And for the most part, he was. No one knew anything was wrong with him.

            No one but Lan Wangji, of course.

            Because as soon as he glanced over at Wei Wuxian, he noticed the hunch of his back, the tightness of his fists, the tension in his shoulders, and the way he was deliberately curtaining his tied-up hair between them.

            Concerned, he walked closer to the donkey and lifted his hand to Wei Wuxian’s thigh. “Wei—”

            A startled moan slipped from Wei Wuxian’s lips at the innocent, tender touch. His hips jerked forward on their own, as if desperate to redirect the hand. This, in turn, made his length grind against the tight stretch of his trousers, resulting in a wild rush of pleasure that made his skin tingle and his heart lurch. He slapped a hand over his mouth, thanking every god he knew the name of that the sound of his moan had been almost entirely buried under the noise of the Jiang Sect’s formation.

            As soon as Lan Wangji heard it, his steps seemed to falter. “Wei Ying?”

            Wei Wuxian grabbed Lan Wangji’s hand, lifting it off his thigh with urgency and then curling forward at the loss with an almost inaudible whine. Fuck, want his hand on me, want him to touch me, kiss me, bend me over, stroke me, fill me—

            For a second, his resolve weakened. He pulled Lan Wangji’s hand a fraction closer, nearly giving into the wild desire to press it against his throbbing length to show him just how hard he was, how much he needed him; he almost brought it to him so Lan Wangji would breathlessly let him grind against his palm for the quick, careless release he so desperately needed—it wouldn’t take much, just a single touch, a single kiss, a single look…something to take the edge off, something to make this heat fade and his thoughts return to normal.

            But at the last second, he managed to regain control. Hearing the voices of his nephew and Jiang Cheng reminded him that they were far from alone.

            Lan Wangji interlaced their fingers. When he spoke, his voice contained a flicker of worry. “Are you alright?”

            Wei Wuxian nodded hurriedly. “Fine! Totally fine. But…ah, L-Lan Zhan, don’t touch me…please…”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers were contrarily squished between Wei Wuxian’s. “What is wrong? Do you feel sick?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed breathlessly, “No, no. Definitely not sick.”

            Lan Wangji, “Then what is wrong?”

            Another shaky, almost delirious chuckle broke from him. His length gave a harsh tug that made his hips twitch, because Lan Wangji’s voice was so deep, alluring, so…monotoned! How is this turning me on so much more?! Fuck, he really doesn’t have to do anything, does he? I can’t even blame this on the desserts I ate; this is just his effect on me…fuck, want him so badly…want to taste him. Want to take him in my mouth and watch how breathless he becomes. Want to—

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying?”

            Wei Wuxian whimpered at the soft way he always said his name. “Nothing, nothing, Lan Zhan. It’s just…” He cut himself off, squeezing his eyes shut when a fantasy of Lan Wangji fucking him against a tree broke through his thoughts.

            He could see it so clearly that his body clenched in anticipation. Lan Wangji would hold his thighs up, fingers digging into the supple flesh. His thrusts would be fast and deep, just as urgent for release as Wei Wuxian was now. He’d pant against Wei Wuxian’s neck, eyes closed, eyebrows knitted because it would just feel so—

            Fuck, please…need to cool down…

            Perhaps they’d collapse in the grass instead, and Wei Wuxian would ride him. He’d place his hands on Lan Wangji’s chest and watch him with parted lips, because his expression would be so fucking beautiful. Lan Wangji’s hands would be tight enough on his waist to leave bruises. He’d surge up when he couldn’t take it anymore and kiss Wei Wuxian sloppily because they’d both be too far gone for grace. His fingers would knead into Wei Wuxian’s backside as he urged him harder, faster, deeper.

            Wei Wuxian’s nails dug into his own palm. The sharp pain managed to drag back some clarity amidst the haze.

            Of course, his silence and pained expression worried Lan Wangji more. He reached for Little Apple’s reins. “We will rest.”

            Wei Wuxian hurried to catch his fingers, squeezing them with both hands. “No! No, no, that’s alright. I’m fine, Lan Zhan. I don’t want to-to draw attention. It’s fine, it’s fine.”

            Lan Wangji glanced over at him when he heard the husky note in his tone. “What is…”

            Wei Wuxian finally looked up at him, and Lan Wangji’s words trailed off.

            Because Wei Wuxian had given him this look so many times—hazy eyes, red lips, blush high in his cheeks, a crease between his eyebrows. It was the look he gave when they had been in bed for hours and the need to come had become almost painful—a look that said he was ready to beg with neither shame nor hesitation.

            Lan Wangji’s lips parted but no sound came out.

            Wei Wuxian tracked the motion, licking his own lips because fuck, he wanted to kiss him, wanted to feel his tongue, feel the vibration of his moan, hear the way his breaths quickened, hear the way—

            Wei Wuxian’s thighs shook with his restraint. “L-Lan Lan, Lan Zhan, mercy, please…please don’t look at me like that. In fact, it’s best if you don’t look at me at all. Don’t talk, either. Don’t…anything…” Wei Wuxian imagined licking his way into Lan Wangji’s mouth again before he managed to jerk his head away and clench his jaw.

            Lan Wangji seemed to be at a loss for a moment. “Do…do you need…”

            Wei Wuxian whined, “Please don’t finish that thought because yes, Lan Zhan…so fucking much…but even I know now is…is hardly the time.”

            Lan Wangji looked ahead, nodding once very minutely. Wei Wuxian’s voice sounded wrecked already. He usually only sounded like this after an hour of edging.

            Wei Wuxian added quietly, more to himself, “It’ll pass, it’ll pass.”

            This made Lan Wangji glance at him with a very small frown.

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “I, uh, ate something I shouldn’t have.”

            Lan Wangji was even more confused. “Something that made you…”

            With a snicker, Wei Wuxian teased, “Horny?”

            Lan Wangji looked ahead once more to reveal a dark earlobe. “That was not what I was going to say.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I know, but teasing you is so…” He exhaled sharply when his mind conjured images of all the other ways he wanted to tease him. He wanted to murmur every dirty thing he’d never said in his ear and watch him fall apart. He wanted to lick a line up his length but avoid the leaking tip, wanted to hover over him and deny him contact, wanted to make him feel as desperate, as needy as he did.

            He whimpered, “Mercy, Hanguang-Jun, please, no more…”

            Lan Wangji swallowed a bit loudly, eyes fixed unseeingly ahead. “I have done nothing.”

            Wei Wuxian’s hips shifted as his length throbbed again. His trousers grew more damp with the fluid pulsing out of him. “You…you don’t have to do anything, Lan Zhan…I just…you’re so…hnngh…”

            Lan Wangji’s knuckles seemed pale when he reached for the reins again. “Let us stop.”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. “No, that’s too obvious.” He gazed at Lan Wangji’s profile with glossy eyes. Shamelessness creeped over him, and he grinned, “Why…are you getting hard now, too?”

            Lan Wangji parted his lips as his earlobe darkened even more. He didn’t look over, perhaps thinking it unwise.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes trailed down him slowly, over his immaculate robes, across the cinch of his sash belt around his slender waist, down the tassel that hung there and swayed in with each step. It was impossible to tell whether he was affected but judging from the look in his eyes and the faint flush of his ear, he definitely wasn’t unaffected.

            For some reason, teasing Lan Wangji seemed to take the edge off. Of course, he always loved riling Lan Wangji up, but now it gave him something else to focus on, somewhere else to direct the heat radiating off him.

            He leaned in close, careful with the volume of his voice. “Can’t stop thinking about this morning, Lan Zhan…how hard you fucked me…felt so good, Lan Zhan, so deep…want you so badly right now. Want you to bend me over, fuck me against a tree, roll us off the road…want to taste you, want to feel you deep inside me, want to hear the way you sound when you come…always so beautiful when you come…”

            Lan Wangji would never know how to handle such brazen words. Were they alone, he would’ve silenced Wei Wuxian with a kiss long ago. For now, he could only manage to give him a heavy look.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart skipped a beat when he saw how dilated his eyes had become. He grinned and whispered, “I know you love to watch me come, too—”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian imagined it was supposed to be a warning, but it came out too breathless to have the impact he was going for. Voice silky, he pressed on, “You love hearing me moan, love the way I feel around you…so hot and wet and tight…”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze looked almost drunk. “Enough…”

            Wei Wuxian’s length throbbed. “You love it when I talk like this, too. Love how hard I get you with just a few simple words…love hearing me moan your name…love it when I scream ‘Lan Er-Gege’ late into the night…”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to his lips. For a second, it looked like he might close the distance between them, formation be damned.

            Wei Wuxian squeezed his fingers. He pulled Lan Wangji’s hand higher up his thigh, dangerously close to where he was aching to be touched. “So hard, Lan Zhan…so hard for you…wish you could feel me, feel how much I need you, how much I want you deep insi—”

            He didn’t even get to finish the word before Lan Wangji was pulling Little Apple out of formation.

            Of course, this didn’t go unnoticed. Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling both stopped.

            Jin Ling saw the way Wei Wuxian was deliberately avoiding eye contact and glanced at Lan Wangji, who seemed as expressionless as ever. “Hanguang-Jun? Is…something wrong?”

            Lan Wangji’s voice betrayed no emotion whatsoever, remaining its usual deep, tepid tone. “Wei Ying does not feel well. We will rest and catch up.”

            His tone left no second option. Regardless of their own feelings on the matter, Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling were given no choice but to continue forward.

            Wei Wuxian forgot why he had even been resisting in the first place—the sooner the formation passed them, the sooner Lan Wangji could make him feel good, the sooner the heat would fade.

            He teased quietly, “Too hard to concentrate on the walk anymore, Lan Zhan?”

            Wei Wuxian really should’ve known better than to keep teasing him.

            The formation hadn’t even finished passing when Lan Wangji turned and kissed him like they were alone. His tongue was quick to deepen it, brushing against Wei Wuxian’s without hesitation.

            If the formation noticed the couple on the side of the road, they actively looked in the opposite direction.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into the kiss. His hips bucked up into the air to seek a friction that wasn’t there. Between kisses, he managed to pant, “Fuck…need you so badly…Lan Zhan, I can’t…please, want you…need you…your fingers, your mouth, your thigh…anything…take me, fuck me, touch me, fill me…please…”

            Before he was even finished, he was being lifted off the donkey. His length slid down against Lan Wangji’s hip and then his thigh as he found his feet. He broke from the kiss with a strangled moan, far too worked up for such an unexpected touch. His knees nearly gave out as his hips bucked forward. Lan Wangji gasped as he finally felt how hard Wei Wuxian was. He pulled him back to his lips with a faltering breath. Within seconds, he was picking him up again. He wrapped Wei Wuxian’s legs around his waist and carried him into the relative privacy of the trees.

            Little Apple gave an impatient huff and wandered off, fed up with the frequency of such situations.

            As soon as the pair fell into the grass, Wei Wuxian was rutting down against Lan Wangji’s thigh, moaning breathlessly, “Ah! L-Lan Zhan…f-feels so…so fucking good, Lan Zhan! Fuck, fuck, fuck…”

            He felt unusually sensitive, even more so than usual. His breaths grew shallow, and his eyes squeezed shut. After only a few brief seconds of contact, he realized why.

            A hot, fast, wild pleasure ripped through him. He pulled from the kiss to offer an almost pained sound, relief surging through him with blinding force. His hips rocked against Lan Wangji’s thigh greedily to prolong the feeling.

            Of course, Lan Wangji was more than familiar with the way Wei Wuxian looked and sounded during such moments. Despite how quickly it had happened, Lan Wangji wasn’t thrown. He murmured Wei Wuxian’s name, kissed down his jaw, and reached between them. With long fingers, he cupped Wei Wuxian through his trousers, offering a firmer grip to help him ride out the waves.

            Wei Wuxian writhed at it. Sparks flashed through his stomach and rippled across his body. The first proper touch was so good that it made him dizzy.

            But it didn’t last nearly as long as usual. Within mere seconds, the relief faded and was immediately replaced with another wave of arousal. His length didn’t soften in the slightest, unsatisfied with such a quick release.          

            His mind had officially lost all clarity. He felt Lan Wangji’s length twitch against his own thigh, and he suddenly couldn’t think of anything but Lan Wangji—his hands, his mouth, his fingers, his moans, his touch. He needed more.

            Far past the point of teasing, all he could do was beg, “Please, please, Lan Zhan, I can’t—I need you so much—please, fuck me, fill me, touch me, take—”

            As usual, he didn’t get to finish his rambling before Lan Wangji was groaning against his mouth and flipping them over. He tore Wei Wuxian’s clothes off rather carelessly, kissing his way down his body.

            Wei Wuxian panted and arched into his touch. A gasp shook from him, and he jolted when he felt Lan Wangji’s kiss close around a nipple. His tongue pressed down against the hardened bud, making Wei Wuxian throw his head back with a strangled, helpless moan. The already-sensitive area was rendered even more so under the influence of the absurd dessert he’d consumed.

            “Fuck, fuck, Lan—Lan Zhan—Lan Zhan—ah! …hnngh, f-feels so—hah—f-feels—” He choked when Lan Wangji switched to the other bud, teeth scraping against it lightly. Beyond shaking, all Wei Wuxian could do was whimper another low sound. His fingers laced through Lan Wangji’s long hair and tangled with his elegant forehead ribbon.

            After a moment of devotion, Lan Wangji continued his path down Wei Wuxian’s stomach. He bit at the skin over his hip as he pulled Wei Wuxian’s trousers off.

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes flashed open. He nearly blacked out at the sight of the elegant Hanguang-Jun between his legs. His own length was a red, angry mess on his stomach. He was covered in his own release, as well as the fluid leaking at the tip again in anticipation.

            Wei Wuxian had all of two seconds to recognize Lan Wangji’s intent. Tingling sparks rushed through his stomach brutally fast, making his head spin.

            Maintaining eye contact, Lan Wangji took him in his mouth.

            Wei Wuxian’s reaction was immediate. He shuddered and threw his head back into the grass. His back arched up off the ground as he resisted the wild urge to thrust into that wet heat.

            Lan Wangji had gotten significantly better at this particular activity of theirs. He had learned quickly and paid close attention to all the things that drove Wei Wuxian crazy. His tongue lavished him with attention, focusing mostly on the sensitive tip.

            Wei Wuxian’s thighs quaked as he tried to keep them apart. His chest flew, sending the sweat gathered along his skin rolling more quickly. He clutched Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon so tight that his hand shook. “L-Lan—Lan Zhan—Lan—Lan—ah! L-Lan Zhan—Lan Zhan—Lan—”

            Lan Wangji moaned quietly around him. His own fingers curled into the soft muscles of Wei Wuxian’s thigh as his gaze grew hazier.

            The vibration rushed up through Wei Wuxian’s entire body, and he choked on a gasp. “Lan Zhan! Hah, hnngh, I’m—L-Lan Zhan—Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji grasped Wei Wuxian’s leg more tightly, watching the one he loved fall completely apart.

            Wei Wuxian really did look beautiful in these moments, utterly lost in pleasure—eyebrows knitted together, lips parted, hair messy.

            His expression collapsed even more. His back came off the ground as he whimpered and moaned his way through a second orgasm. Heat raked up his body as Lan Wangji accepted his release with a soft sound.

            Lan Wangji’s gaze turned glossy as he admired Wei Wuxian. His own hips twitched against the ground, despite his almost unbreakable self-control—Wei Wuxian had always been the sole exception to that discipline.

            When it finally ended, Wei Wuxian fell back heavily. His breaths rushed as he struggled to reorient himself. His legs splayed to the sides, toes appearing to be permanently curled.

            Lan Wangji kissed his way back up his body, his own chest moving just as fast.

            Without hesitation, Wei Wuxian pulled him to his mouth, tasting himself on Lan Wangji’s tongue with a wanton groan. He reached between them to caress the place where Lan Wangji was straining against his own clothes. Lan Wangji’s breath shuddered at the touch, and his hips dipped into his hand in a momentary lapse of control.

            Wei Wuxian was still somehow hard between them, arousal racing through his veins on the heels of relief once more. He tore Lan Wangji’s sash belt off and flicked his robes aside, removing only the essentials to make the position work.

            He broke from the kiss, panting, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, please—”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers left marks across his body as he kissed him and nodded. He groaned softly and found Wei Wuxian’s hand. Interlacing their fingers, he entered him slowly.

            Wei Wuxian cried out and arched up. “Lan—ah—Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji kissed his neck. “Beautiful, Wei Ying…so beautiful…”

            Tears sprung to Wei Wuxian’s eyes at both the intensity of the desire coursing through his whole body and the tenderness of Lan Wangji’s voice. “Lan Zhan—”

            Lan Wangji’s hands tightened as their hips met. He dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, groaning very quietly when he felt the way Wei Wuxian’s muscles constricted around him.

            After a moment, he returned to Wei Wuxian’s neck. He licked, kissed, and bit at the skin there, leaving marks that would be visible for the rest of the week. Wei Wuxian didn’t bother to think about why that might be a bit inconvenient later as he bared his neck for more contact.

            When Lan Wangji began to move, Wei Wuxian’s noises became even louder. “Ah! S-so…hnngh, so fucking good—f-feels so—Lan Zhan…Hanguang-Jun…Lan Er-Gege—”

            Lan Wangji managed a somewhat admonishing, “Wei…Wei Ying…” for the honorific, but it was hardly effective.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “My good Lan Er-Gege—feels so good, Lan Er-Gege—”

            Lan Wangji moved to kiss him deeply. His fingers squeezed Wei Wuxian’s as his thrusts slowed and grew more deliberate, mercilessly grinding against the spot that made Wei Wuxian weak.

            Within mere seconds of such attention, Wei Wuxian’s body was seizing up. He broke from the kiss once more with a startled moan. His length gave a hard tug, and then streaks fell across his stomach. Lan Wangji’s fingers tightened, and he gave a low, breathless groan of Wei Wuxian’s name when he felt his muscles clamp down around him.

            Wei Wuxian writhed under the onslaught, his voice growing hoarse. “Lan—Lan Zhan—Lan Zhan—hnngh, ah, hah—L-Lan Zhan!”

            Lan Wangji’s thrusts slowed even more as he waited to see whether Wei Wuxian was satisfied.

            Evidently, he wasn’t. His length appeared as angry and red as before with no sign of softening.

            Wei Wuxian’s tears were running faster. “­More, Lan Zhan, please—need you—” He gripped Lan Wangji’s shoulders, tugging a little to indicate what he wanted.

            Lan Wangji understood. He rolled them over, moving both hands to Wei Wuxian’s waist.

            Wei Wuxian sat up and leaned over him, pressing one hand beside Lan Wangji’s head on the ground and the other on his cheek. He kissed and licked at the other side of his jaw, moaning languidly as he chose another slow pace to continue. Rapid breaths broke from him as he moved his forehead to Lan Wangji’s neck and squeezed his eyes shut.

            “Fuck, you feel so good, Lan Zhan…always so good for me…”

            Lan Wangji’s hands swam up his sides, then back down to his waist. He turned his head and bit Wei Wuxian’s earlobe lightly. “Every…every day, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian groaned at the small stammer, nodding furiously. “So fucking much, Lan Zhan, every day.”

            When he couldn’t take it any longer, he sat up over Lan Wangji. He arched his back and entered into a faster pace, losing himself in the feeling.

            Lan Wangji watched him with heavy eyes, admiring every inch of him. He groaned his name quietly, digging his fingers into his thighs. His hands traced across Wei Wuxian’s hips before holding him tighter.

            Wei Wuxian’s expression contorted. He reached for Lan Wangji’s hands, squeezing them for balance as he chased not only his own numbing release but, more importantly, Lan Wangji’s.

            Lan Wangji planted his feet on the grass. With the newfound leverage, he managed to thrust up into Wei Wuxian more deeply. Sounds fell from Wei Wuxian, growing hoarser the longer he used his voice. He threw his head back. His tongue passed through his lips intermittently before he realized what he was looking for.

            After another moment, he caved and pulled at Lan Wangji’s robes, hoping to silently communicate what he wanted.

            Lan Wangji understood again. He surged up to capture his mouth.

            Wei Wuxian moaned into the kiss. His tongue brushed against Lan Wangji’s messily, too incoherent to be graceful. Lan Wangji took Wei Wuxian’s waist to guide his rolls when he lost the ability to do so himself. He moaned quietly as Wei Wuxian’s sounds grew louder.

            Time passed in something of a hazy blur. Midmorning turned into midafternoon as they rolled in the grass. Wei Wuxian released twice more while Lan Wangji stroked, kissed, and guided him through both without faltering.

            Of course, Wei Wuxian knew better than anyone how immeasurable Lan Wangji’s stamina was, but such a demonstration of it always shook Wei Wuxian. Having seen and felt him come so many times, Wei Wuxian was shocked Lan Wangji hadn’t cracked even once.

            Wei Wuxian’s voice was beyond hoarse, and he knew he would feel utterly exhausted when it was finally over, but for now, all he could focus on was the need in his abdomen.

            They had changed positions countless times—Wei Wuxian on top, on his knees, on his back; Lan Wangji stroking him, fucking him, grinding into him; fast, hard, slow.

            Hours after beginning, Wei Wuxian was writhing on his back once more and clinging to Lan Wangji’s shoulders. Lan Wangji’s face was hidden against his neck, his breaths bursting across his skin as he maintained a steady and rhythmic pace. His hand was tight on Wei Wuxian’s thigh, keeping it high on his waist. His other hand was clenched in Wei Wuxian’s robes.

            Wei Wuxian shuddered as he grew closer, and then his eyes flashed open. It was building differently in his lower abdomen, impossibly heavier and stronger than before with a note of finality. Voice wobbly, he managed, “Lan—ah—Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan—hnngh, so…so close—come, ngh, come with me—please—”

            Lan Wangji grunted very quietly. He lifted his head, pressing his forehead to Wei Wuxian’s briefly before he hitched Wei Wuxian’s knee higher on his waist and quickened his pace.

            Wei Wuxian arched, eyes squeezing shut. A liquid fire rushed up through his body. Lan Wangji brushed his fingers against his length in a question, and Wei Wuxian nodded furiously, hugging him tighter. When Lan Wangji encircled his length, he barely had time to stroke him once before Wei Wuxian’s mouth was falling open. A violent explosion of pleasure burst through him so overwhelmingly that he couldn’t even make a sound. His breath caught, and his expression crumpled. His waist arched up as his head rolled back. His entire body constricted, tightening like a vise.

            Lan Wangji’s breaths shuddered. He groaned Wei Wuxian’s name, his thrusts finally, finally losing their rhythm. When it all became too much, he panted and pulled out of Wei Wuxian.

            Wei Wuxian hurried to reach for him, stroking him in the way he knew he liked.

            Lan Wangji gave a low, breathy sound that made Wei Wuxian tremble. Fingers tightening on his waist, he dropped his head to Wei Wuxian’s shoulder and finally, finally joined him.

            “Wei…Wei Ying…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian whimpered at the breathiness of his voice. He was already falling into exhaustion. He barely got to enjoy the way Lan Wangji sounded, the way his length pulsed, the way his hand swam up his body, and the way he panted Wei Wuxian’s name in broken breaths.

            After a suspended moment, Wei Wuxian collapsed to the ground, and Lan Wangji followed him, holding himself up with his elbows as he panted against Wei Wuxian’s shoulder.

            “Wei Ying…Wei Ying…”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyebrows pulled together. He offered a reedy, deeply satisfied sound. His length twitched feebly against his stomach, but at last, the heat was gone. He found Lan Wangji’s mouth, kissing him with languid movements.

            Lan Wangji was always so tender afterwards. With gentle hands, he cleaned Wei Wuxian, had him drink water, fixed his clothes, and pulled him into his arms.

            Wei Wuxian was barely conscious, humming occasionally and clutching at Lan Wangji whenever possible.

            When Lan Wangji curled up with him in the grass again, Wei Wuxian mumbled, “…Mm…stay here…for a bit, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji kissed his forehead. “Mm. As long as you want.”

            Wei Wuxian gave a drowsy sound. “So good, Lan Zhan…think you broke me…”

            Lan Wangji’s lips curved softly against his skin. “Love you.”

            It was rare for Lan Wangji to use those words themselves. Wei Wuxian pried his eyes open and moved his head back a little to meet Lan Wangji’s tender gaze. He smiled dreamily and reached for Lan Wangji’s jaw.

            The kiss was slow and soft, with Wei Wuxian unable to give back nearly as much as he wanted.

            “Love you so much, Lan Zhan…so much…can’t talk anymore…gonna…pass out, I think…”

            Lan Wangji hugged him tighter. “Sleep. I am here.”

            Such words were so simple, yet they always made Wei Wuxian feel so safe. His eyes slipped closed as he smiled again. With a soft hum, he drifted off.

Chapter Text

Despite a little tension, the Wen Sect’s Discussion Conference banquet was in full swing. Dozens of cultivators from the five biggest sects—as well as countless cultivators from smaller sects and clans—were all seated together in the lavish, sun-themed main hall of Qishan’s Nightless City.

            The tension came from many cultivators over a certain age. While the juniors cared little for such serious matters, their seniors were a bit too stiff, a bit too quiet. Of the five largest sects’ leaders, only Jiang Fengmian could be described as relaxed. Even Jin Guangshan glanced nervously at the Wen Sect, eager to please and wary of offending.

            Lan Qiren and Nie Mingjue were chief among those rigid with dissatisfaction, though Lan Qiren did a significantly better job of hiding it.

            Nie Mingjue had never been good at pretending to feel something he didn’t. He had never made his hatred for the Wen Sect a secret; being seated across from Wen Chao during the archery competition—when, in the past, they had all sat together as equals—was just another insult. He was one foul comment or snide look away from unleashing the full power of his saber.

            At least, that’s what it seemed like to Nie Huaisang, who sat at his elder brother’s side. He knew how his brother felt about the Wen Sect, of course, but he also worried it might cause trouble if the Nie Sect refused to give the Wen Sect at least a little face. So, with those around him, he ate and drank as though nothing was wrong, pretending—for his brother’s sake—that it was the happy celebration it was masquerading as. But he also did so quietly, since he feared his brother’s temper far more than any Wen Sect disciple’s displeasure.

            Unlike Nie Mingjue’s obvious stiffness, Lan Qiren seemed utterly refined and polite. Apart from the slightly dark expression that kept his features stern to a terrifying degree, he seemed his usual self.

            However, internally, he was frustrated in his own way. He was still in the exhaustive process of dealing with the waterborne abyss that had terrorized Caiyi Town. Of course, he and several others knew the Wen Sect had chased the spirit into Biling Lake, but even more obvious was the fact that they could never offer such an accusation. It wasn’t uncommon for the Wen Sect to put down perceived dissonance with fancy titles, and the Lan Sect could ill afford such a powerful enemy.

            Such a position only made Lan Qiren’s jaw tighter.

            Even at a festive banquet, the Lan Sect was quiet and kept to themselves. There were many rules in the Cloud Recesses about eating silently and maintaining one’s righteousness, so not a single Lan Sect disciple was out of order. No one drank anything but tea, and no member was caught speaking while chewing. Amidst the somewhat chaotic scene, the Lan Sect appeared every bit as peaceful as their cloud motif implied.

            There was, of course, one prominent person missing from their ranks. While Jin Guangshan, Jiang Fengmian, Nie Mingjue, and even Wen Ruohan all sat at the heads of their sects, the Lan Sect’s leader, Qingheng-Jun, was absent. No one took it as a slight, of course. It was well known that he had confined himself to secluded meditation for countless years.

            In his place sat Lan Xichen, who had spent his childhood and teenage years looking after the Lan Sect with his uncle. While his younger brother and uncle both wore blank, almost stern expressions, Zewu-Jun smiled warmly at servants and disciples alike. Countless people arrived to offer their respect for taking second and fourth places in the archery competition.

            Beside the Lan Sect, the Jin Sect was far less docile. Jin Guangshan had initially been worried about offending the Wen Sect, but what better way to offend someone than to reject their hospitality?

            Such an attitude served him well. He drank more than his share and grabbed at, flirted with, and otherwise harassed every single woman who had the misfortune of walking near his table—from his sect or not, servant or cultivator. With Jin Furen still at Koi Tower, he felt safe enough to do as he pleased.

            Jin Zixuan sat beside his father’s table with a dark expression. His father’s behavior was one reason, though he had more or less acclimated to it by now.  

            The second reason was harder to overcome. It was the displeasure he felt for coming behind Wei Wuxian of all people in the archery competition. Though he was celebrated liberally for achieving third place, Jin Zixuan couldn’t help but feel irritated by the fact that he’d been beaten by such an annoying person.

            It wasn’t that he thought the victory was unearned; as difficult as it was to admit, even he couldn’t deny Wei Wuxian’s strong cultivation.

            Of course, that only made him feel more annoyed. It irked him that Wei Wuxian could play around, take so little seriously, be so arrogant, and act so nonchalant and still get first place. He hated the feeling of losing to someone who didn’t even seem to take such a victory seriously.  

            Seated beside the Jin Sect and across the hall from the Lan Sect was the Jiang Sect. The two sides of the room couldn’t have been more opposite. While the Lan Sect was tranquil and collected, the Jiang Sect was, in a word, boisterous. They had been taught to be free and to cherish that freedom.

            So, while it wouldn’t be fair to say their side was the loudest, it definitely was far from the quietest. Each member cheerfully drank, ate, laughed, talked, and toasted one another. They spoke with wide smiles, shared food and drinks across tables, and overall enjoyed the feast to the utmost.

            Jiang Fengmian sat at the head of his sect, one of the few members eating with a quiet grace. Yu Furen and Jiang Yanli were the two most notable people missing, the latter of whom Wei Wuxian wished had come.

            Sitting beside Jiang Fengmian, he and Jiang Cheng were two of the louder ones in the sect. They joked, dared each other to try the more mysterious-looking dishes, and playfully shoved each other as they enjoyed the festivities. They weren’t blind to the tension in the room, of course, but they were less burdened by it. After all, Jiang Fengmian had instilled in them the belief that the future was unpredictable, but today’s meal should always be enjoyed.

            Throughout the feast, Wei Wuxian occasionally looked across the hall to find Lan Wangji glancing at him at the same time. Lan Wangji’s expression remained entirely indifferent, and he always broke eye contact first. Everything about him made it seem as though he had entered a state of Zen, where he remained unaware and undisturbed by his loud surroundings or the boy across the room who had carelessly yanked his forehead ribbon off.

            Countless people came to the Jiang Sect to congratulate Wei Wuxian for winning first place. Even a few members of the Wen Sect came by with sincerity. Drinks were shared, toasts were made, and, though it wasn’t at all the objective of the competition, the Jiang Sect even found itself earning a few new disciples from smaller clans.

            Finally, at the head of the dramatically designed hall, sat the Wen Sect on an elevated platform. Despite achieving no victories, theirs was the rowdiest of all the sects. They drank and celebrated liberally—with two notable exceptions.

            The first was Wen Chao, who was giving the Jin, Jiang, and Lan Sects all the same angry smirk—in particular the four juniors who had ranked highest in the competition.

            The second was Wen Ning, who sat quietly at his table with a longingness in his wide eyes. His gaze flitted to Wei Wuxian throughout the evening, both intentionally and accidently. He very much wanted to go over and talk to the other boy—to thank him, wave at him, congratulate him, something. But every time he got the courage to stand up and go over, someone else beat him to it and captured Wei Wuxian’s attention.

            Every time he saw how broadly Wei Wuxian smiled and how he made every visitor laugh, Wen Ning grew even more hesitant. He worried most about making things awkward. He often stuttered, and it only got worse when he was nervous. He didn’t typically talk to people outside of his sister or the disciples under him, who were just as quiet, and so he had no idea what to say to someone so outgoing.

            In such circumstances, all Wen Ning could do was remain in his seat and hope Wei Wuxian might start a conversation with him.

            Back on the Lan Sect’s side, Lan Xichen had also been paying attention to the Jiang Sect. He knew no one from his sect had yet gone over to congratulate Wei Wuxian—which wasn’t so much rude as dutiful. Once they sat down to eat, Lan Sect disciples were expected to remain in place until the meal was over.            

            Having finished what he could of his own dishes, Lan Xichen glanced at his younger brother. “Wangji.”

            Lan Wangji had also finished. “Xiongzhang?”

            “I am going to speak with Wei Gongzi and Jiang Zongzhu. Will you join me?”

            Lan Wangji faced straight ahead again. “I will stay.”

            Lan Xichen pursed his lips together.

            Though Lan Wangji seemed completely fine now, Lan Xichen knew he was still shaken from what had happened earlier. It was a combination of anger, embarrassment, and something deeper—a confusing, complicated emotion that he himself could not seem to understand, much less explain to another. And, while Lan Wangji cared little about what others thought of him, Lan Xichen knew it wasn’t easy knowing every member of the Lan Sect had seen Wei Wuxian pull off his most personal and private possession. After all, Wei Wuxian might not have known the significance and implication of such an action, but everyone in the Lan Sect did.

            But Lan Xichen also remembered how quiet Lan Wangji had been after Wei Wuxian had left the Cloud Recesses.

            He rested a hand on his younger brother’s shoulder. “He did not mean anything by it, Wangji.”

            Lan Wangji was utterly emotionless. “Mm.”

            Lan Xichen, “It seems he does not even know the meaning behind our forehead ribbons. If he did, he would not have done such a thing to you on purpose.”

            Lan Wangji’s eyebrows twitched faintly. “Mm.”

            Lan Xichen sighed softly. “Wangji, if you do not speak to him now, will you not regret it once we return home?”

            Finally, Lan Wangji’s expression darkened. He seemed annoyed by the reminder—perhaps even more so because he couldn’t refute it. As though forced, he sighed quietly. “Fine.”

            Lan Xichen smiled and stood. “Shufu, we will return soon.”

            Having not heard their conversation, Lan Qiren only nodded in silence and stroked his goatee.

            Wei Wuxian was still laughing with Jiang Cheng when the Two Jades of Lan appeared. He was so immersed in their banter that he didn’t even notice their arrival.

            The rest of the Jiang Sect wasn’t half as unaware. Many of its members gasped themselves into silence. Of course, everyone knew how beautiful the Two Jades were reputed to be but seeing them so close in person was an entirely different experience. Several pairs of eyes stuck to the brothers.

            The two had been used to such attention since they had both turned thirteen and seldom noticed anymore.

            They stopped by Jiang Fengmian’s table, saluting in unison with respect. “Jiang Zongzhu.”

            At the sound of their voices, Wei Wuxian’s laughter cut off and his smile brightened. His own voice was impossibly warm as he called, “Lan Zhan!!”

            Lan Wangji’s light-colored eyes met his briefly. In an utterly indifferent tone, he returned the greeting politely. “Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian heard the tone, of course, and tried not to comment on it.

            Jiang Fengmian was in the process of returning a warm greeting of his own. “Lan Gongzi, Lan Er-Gongzi. Congratulations on achieving two victories in today’s competition. Truly impressive.”

            Lan Xichen, “Thank you, Jiang Zongzhu. In fact, we wanted to offer the same respect to Wei Gongzi. I have always known the Jiang Sect’s archery skills are unparalleled and that Wei Gongzi is the Jiang Sect’s brightest disciple, but it was a pleasure to see such talent in person. It was a truly well-earned victory, Wei Gongzi.”

            Wei Wuxian waved both hands, uncomfortable with such sincere praise. “Ah, it was nothing, it was nothing. All it really proves is that I spend far too much time slacking off and shooting paper kites, haha.”

            Jiang Fengmian smiled as he lifted a cup to drink.

            Jiang Cheng, on the other hand, wasn’t nearly as endeared. He shook his head, as though appalled but not surprised. “You’re so shameless…”

            As though reminded of something, Wei Wuxian snapped his fingers. “Oh! Lan Zhan! After the banquet, I heard some of the Wen Sect’s people are heading to a lantern lighting!” Jiang Cheng looked sharply at his shixiong and was ignored. “Apparently, it’s some important day for the Wen Sect or something. Jiang Cheng, Nie-xiong, and I are going to check it out. Come with us!”

            Lan Wangji shook his head once. “I—”

            But Lan Xichen spoke faster. “That sounds like it would be very nice. Allow me to thank you for the invitation on Wangji’s behalf, Wei Gongzi. Wangji, you should go. Shufu and I have some matters to discuss with Nie Zongzhu.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flicked to his older brother. “I will join you.”

            Lan Xichen smiled, “I fear I have put enough on your shoulders as it is, Wangji. Please, take tonight for yourself. I insist.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw clenched. He cleared his expression and looked ahead. Sternly, he nodded a single time.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Great! It starts in about an hour. Meet us in the plaza in thirty minutes, and we’ll go together, okay, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji glanced fleetingly at him before nodding again. “…Fine.”

            He and Lan Xichen saluted Jiang Fengmian respectfully and departed.

            When they were far enough away, Lan Wangji asked quietly, “Why did you do that?”

            Lan Xichen was trying his hardest not to smile. “You seemed like you wanted to go.”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened. “I do not.”

            On the opposite side of the room, Wei Wuxian was getting an earful from Jiang Cheng.

            “Why did you invite him? You didn’t even tell him the truth about what we’re doing, that we’ll have to sneak in to see it; do you really think Lan Er-Gongzi will be okay doing something like that with us? Besides, he was clearly forced to accept by his older brother. He doesn’t like you or any of us. Why do you always have to tease him and make more trouble?”      

           Wei Wuxian was laughing long before he was finished. “You’ve said a mouthful! I don’t even know where to begin, hahaha. Firstly, Jiang Cheng, I’m not teasing him; I really do want him to come. Secondly, it’s not like it’s forbidden for us to go or anything. Don’t be so dramatic. It’s just—”

            Jiang Cheng raised an eyebrow. “Strongly discouraged?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Exactly! Which he doesn’t even have to know, because it’s not like they’ll even know we’re there. And even if they did, they won’t kick us out or imprison us or anything.”

            Jiang Cheng muttered, “They might. It’s the Wen Sect. They think they can do whatever they want.”

            Wei Wuxian continued, “Thirdly, he’s just hard to read. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t get lonely or want to do things with kids his own age.”

            Jiang Cheng, “He’s even sterner than his uncle, and you think he wants to watch a lantern lighting with a bunch of kids? Admit it, this is all just because you feel guilty about earlier.”

            Wei Wuxian frowned at him. “What a weird thing to say. Why would I feel guilty? I didn’t do anything wrong.”

            Jiang Cheng snorted, “You think you’re fooling anyone? It’s obvious you feel guilty for making him leave the competition, so you’re trying to make it up to him. Which is stupid, because if that’s what you want to do, you should just leave him alone, since that’s clearly what he wants.”

            Wei Wuxian plucked two jars of liquor off the tray of a passing servant. He slammed one down on his shidi’s table. “Jiang Cheng, I’m afraid you’ve grown delirious without a proper drink. Here, take this and stop talking about stuff you don’t understand.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You—! You’re hopeless. Why do I even bother? You already pissed him off today, and now you’re desperate to do it again. Is it that you won’t stop messing with him until he stabs you?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “How is this messing with him? I wasn’t playing a joke on him; I was being sincere! Messing with him would be inviting him to meet us somewhere and not showing up. Which you know I’d never do to anyone.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Even if you weren’t messing with him—”

            Wei Wuxian scoffed, “I’m not!”

            Jiang Cheng, “—would he really have any way of knowing that? You’ve already gone out of your way so many times to prank him.”

            Wei Wuxian, “If you’re talking about the—” He glanced at Jiang Fengmian. The sect leader clearly wasn’t listening to them, but Wei Wuxian lowered his voice anyway. “—the book, that’s all in the past. He’s not mad about that anymore.”

            Jiang Cheng, “And his forehead ribbon?”

            Wei Wuxian poured himself a cup of liquor. “How was I supposed to know he’d get so mad about it? The way he acted, it was like it was attached to his body or something. I just wanted to help him straighten it; it’s not like I pulled it off on purpose. It was just an accident.”

            Jiang Cheng snorted. “Uh huh, and you say you don’t feel guilty. I lost count of how many excuses you just made.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ugh! Shut up, Jiang Cheng! Hurry up and pour your drink, or I’m getting started without you. I want to see who can finish their jar first.”

            Jiang Cheng wasn’t so easily distracted. “You should have at least asked me before inviting him.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Why would I have done that? You would’ve said no, and I would’ve done it anyway.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You’re surprisingly self-aware for such a punk.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You’re the punk. Now hurry up; we only have half an hour.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I’m not competing with you. That’s stupid.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Scared you’ll lose again?”

            Jiang Cheng slammed his hand on the table and grabbed his cup. “Fine. You asked for it.”

Chapter Text

Nie Huaisang had been waiting near the Wen Sect’s main hall for ten minutes. It wasn’t that he was annoyed at the delay, per se, but rather that he was growing anxious. The lantern lighting would be starting soon, and if they didn’t arrive in time, they might miss the whole thing!

            He flicked his fan open, eyes darting to the main hall’s exit before returning to the plaza.

            It was said that the sun never set in Nightless City, and the Wen Sect had made that as literal as it was metaphorical. The Sun Palace sat atop a long flight of stairs that gleamed with candlelight. Floating lanterns were strung over the steps every meter or so, nearly blocking out the sky. They obscured the stars and made the walkway glow with fiery light. Standing within such a well-lit plaza, it certainly did almost feel like daytime.

            Nie Huaisang fanned himself quickly, growing more impatient the longer he waited. Ten minutes had turned into fifteen, and he became certain they would miss everything.

            Right when he was about to go back into the main hall to find them, Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian appeared. They were laughing and shoving one another, clearly not in any sort of hurry.

            The sight of them made Nie Huaisang relax, even as he sighed softly.

            He loved his older brother as much as he feared him, but some part of him, deep down, had always wished he’d had a relationship with his brother that was something like what Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng had with each other—a relationship that, beneath all the mocking, teasing, and fighting, seemed playful, supportive, and endlessly loyal.

            After all, Jiang Cheng had certainly given Wei Wuxian a hard time about the fight with Jin Zixuan last year, but after Wei Wuxian had gone back to Lotus Pier, Nie Huaisang had seen how Jiang Cheng had defended his shixiong’s name when others had tried to gossip about the event.

            Wei Wuxian waved as he saw the other boy. “Nie-xiong! Sorry if you were waiting long. I had to thrash Jiang Cheng in a drinking contest.”

            Jiang Cheng snorted. “I think you mean that the other way around.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I told you the last one didn’t count. Someone came over to talk to me! I couldn’t just ignore them. You were the one who cheated by still drinking when you knew it wasn’t fair.”

            Jiang Cheng smirked. “You were the one who wanted to do it in the first place. I told you it was a dumb idea.”

            Nie Huaisang knew they would go back and forth all night if he didn’t intervene. “Jiang-xiong, Wei-xiong, are you guys ready?! I think they’re starting soon, and I’m not sure I know the way. We should go!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Wait, has Lan Zhan come by?”

            Even the name of the other boy was enough to startle Nie Huaisang. “Lan Er-Gongzi? No, thank goodness. Why? Do you see him somewhere?!”

            Wei Wuxian, “No, not yet.”

            Nie Huaisang, “Not…yet?”

            Jiang Cheng crossed his arms, as though settling in for a show.

            Wei Wuxian, “Yeah! He’s coming with us!”

            Nie Huaisang almost dropped his beloved fan. “He—what?! Why?!”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “I invited him, of course.”

            Nie Huaisang gaped, “You—what?! And he agreed?!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Of course!”

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. “You’re so shameless. He did not agree. He was forced to agree by his older brother.”

            Nie Huaisang closed his fan and clutched it with both hands. “Wei-xiong, Wei-xiong, what do you mean you invited Lan Er-Gongzi? You invited…Lan Wangji…Lan Er-Gongzi…one of the righteous Two Jades of Lan and the sternest person in the whole Lan Sect…t-to break into a private affair in another sect’s home…”

            Jiang Cheng gave Wei Wuxian a dry look as Nie Huaisang continued to break down in the background. “See? Even he gets why this was a terrible idea.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Have you ever heard an idea you liked?”

            Jiang Cheng punched his arm. “I liked this one just fine until you decided to invite someone else out of guilt.”

            Nie Huaisang, “Guilt? Guilt for what?”

            Wei Wuxian ignored the question, “Come on, Jiang Cheng! Where’s your sense of adventure?! It’s more fun if there’s more people. What’s the point of a covert operation if it’s just the three of us?!”

            Jiang Cheng, “Can you repeat that? I don’t think you heard yourself.”

            Nie Huaisang, “…But…but, Wei-xiong, Lan Er-Gongzi is famous for not liking fun!”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “That’s a bit of a stretch, don’t you think?”

            Nie Huaisang shook his head so fast that his hair whipped back and forth. “No, Wei-xiong! You don’t understand! I’ve known him for at least two years! He has never gone anywhere with anyone his age!” He began to count on his fingers. “He doesn’t like laughing, he doesn’t like talking, he doesn’t like looking at porn books, he doesn’t like to eat fun things, he doesn’t like groups, he doesn’t like—”

            Jiang Cheng cut him off, “—you, Wei Wuxian. He doesn’t like you. In fact, and I can’t stress this enough, he hates you.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “How can he hate me?”

            Jiang Cheng, “I want to hit you so hard sometimes. How can he not?!”

            Nie Huaisang, “I think he’s right, Wei-xiong. After you left last year, Lan Laotou couldn’t stop ranting about you.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “And? What does his uncle have to do with him? They’re two different people. Can they possibly share the exact same mind?”

            Nie Huaisang allowed, “Well…no, but it’s just…I’ve never seen Lan Er-Gongzi be so rude to anyone before. He’s revered for his good manners! Even people he hates, he treats with respect. But, with you, he’s always so angry and stern…”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Exactly! You already said it yourself; even people he hates, he treats with respect, so how can he hate me if he doesn’t treat me with any respect at all?”

            Jiang Cheng, “You have no face.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Besides, remember I told you I ran into him with Shijie when he and his brother were night-hunting in Yunmeng? He didn’t try to kill me then. And he could have! He actually had a lot of chances to, hahaha.”

            Nie Huaisang, “Well, that could just be because he has very good manners. Or…usually does, around everyone…”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Everyone but me?”

            Jiang Cheng, “Obviously. And do you know why?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Remind me?”

            Jiang Cheng went to punch his arm, but Wei Wuxian darted aside. He saw a flash of white at the same time and turned around with a grin. “Lan Zhan! You came!”

            Lan Wangji was passing through the massive doors from the Sun Palace. His expression seemed as indifferent and icy as always.

            Nie Huaisang flicked his fan open to hid behind while Jiang Cheng looked away unhappily.

            Lan Wangji stopped before the trio and nodded once at Wei Wuxian. “I apologize for being late.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “That’s one thing I like about you, Lan Zhan. You don’t make excuses for yourself. It’s okay, it’s okay. I thought I saw you and your brother talking to some people when Jiang Cheng and I came out. We only just got here, too.”

            Lan Wangji nodded again.

            Wei Wuxian, “Are you ready, then? I think they’re starting soon!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t look at him. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Great! Let’s go!”

            Nie Huaisang, “Er…yes. This way.”

            Amid the bright night, the four juniors started down the long staircase to the plaza.

            Jiang Cheng glanced at the elaborate décor and muttered, “So absurd.”

            Wei Wuxian hummed in agreement. “It really is a bit too much. They’ve covered up all the night sky; we can’t even see the stars! There’s a sun everywhere I look. See? There, there, here, there, there—” At here, he pointed to himself before gesturing to the walls.

            As though moving instinctively, Jiang Cheng shoved him as hard as he could, so hard that Wei Wuxian almost tumbled down the rest of the stairs.

            Lan Wangji caught his arm. Immediately, he looked displeased with the reflex, pulled his hand back, and looked away.

            Wei Wuxian slapped his own hand over his mouth to cover a shocked laugh and shoved Jiang Cheng back. “You want to kill me?! What is it, you disagree with what I said?”

            Jiang Cheng gave him a dry look. “Wholeheartedly.”

            Wei Wuxian pretended to be hurt. “Are you trying to say I’m not the light of your life?”

            Jiang Cheng, “You wouldn’t be the light of anyone’s life even if you somehow burst into flames.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ah, so cruel…Lan Zhan, what do you think about this?”

            Lan Wangji shook his head minutely. “Wuliao.”

            Wei Wuxian mimed a heart wound. “Ah! How can this be?! You’re both so—”

            Nie Huaisang, “Shh, Wei-xiong! We’re getting close now!”

            Lan Wangji realized a bit late that everyone was being deliberately quiet. He hadn’t known Wei Wuxian to be quiet purely out of respect; even in the Lan Sect’s ancestral hall, Wei Wuxian had played around and laughed.

            He stopped when he realized the only reason they might be quiet now.

            Wei Wuxian stopped, too. “What’s wrong? We’re almost there!”

            Lan Wangji gave him an emotionless but unsurprised look. “We are not allowed to go. Are we.” His tone held no trace of a question.

            Wei Wuxian, “What do you mean? Of course we are!”

            Lan Wangji, “Do not lie.”

            Wei Wuxian sighed, “Fine, okay, perhaps it’s a little…discouraged for others to show up, but it’s only because they don’t want excessive noise! And we’ll be so quiet, they won’t even know we’re there! We’re just going to watch!”

            Lan Wangji didn’t feel like commenting on the notion that Wei Wuxian thought he could be quiet. “Ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Come on, Lan Zhan, it’ll be sooo pretty! Other sects aren’t like yours. Your sect says something and means it, but others’ rules are more…flexible!”

            Lan Wangji repeated tonelessly, “Flexible.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Yeah! We won’t get into any real trouble if we’re caught because we’re not actually doing anything wrong, you see?”

            Jiang Cheng muttered under his breath, “Does he really think he’s talking Lan Wangji into this?”

            Nie Huaisang whispered even quieter, “It seems he does.”

            Jiang Cheng, “What an idiot.”

            Wei Wuxian overheard, of course, and kicked Jiang Cheng’s shin. “Besides, Lan Zhan! I heard that when Wen Sect lanterns get high enough, they set off little sparks that look like a thousand little suns! It’s a little on the nose, admittedly, but who cares, so long as it looks nice!”

            Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. It was obviously hopeless.

            As expected, the other boy straightened his posture impossibly more and said sternly, “If others are not permitted to go, then we will not.”

            Wei Wuxian gave a disarming smile. “Lan Zhan~…would I ever get you into trouble? Honestly, it really isn’t a big deal.”

            Before he could add anything else, a small voice appeared behind them. “E-excuse me. Are you…are you guys hoping to see the lanterns?”

            Everyone turned around in unison to see another boy their age walking closer.

            However, having four pairs of eyes suddenly land on him, his cheeks flushed, and he jolted to a stop.

            “I-I’m sorry! I wasn’t—I wasn’t eavesdropping o-or anything. I was—I was just walking by and heard you guys talking.”

            Wei Wuxian recognized his sunburst robes and wide, nervous eyes and snapped his fingers. “Hey, it’s you! Wen…Wen, uh…Wen Qionglin! Right?”

            The other boy flushed even darker. “U-um, yes. But you c-can just call me Wen Ning, if you—if you want.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Wen Ning it is, then! This is Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng, and, of course, the illustrious Lan Wangji in the flesh!”

            Wen Ning offered a quiet salute. “Lan Er-Gongzi, I am honored to meet you. Jiang Gongzi, Nie Gongzi.”

            Lan Wangji returned the salute with respect. “Wen Gongzi, the honor is mine.”

            Nie Huaisang smiled and waved with his fan in response. “Wen-xiong! Wei-xiong told us about your archery skills!”

            Wen Ning flushed tomato red. “O-oh, I-I’m not—I mean, I’ve never…um…”

            Wei Wuxian saw he felt awkward and hurried to move on. “Hey, are you going to see the lanterns, too? Do they really look like a thousand little suns?”

            Wen Ning smiled hesitantly and nodded. “They do! I can—I can take you if you want! You’re not r-really supposed to go in if you—if you don’t have someone from the Wen Sect to, um, vouch for you. Silly rule, I know…”

            Lan Wangji gave Wei Wuxian a dry look.

            Wei Wuxian grinned back and turned to Wen Ning. “You’d vouch for us?”

            Wen Ning nodded eagerly, “Yeah! I-I can totally do that. There are a few rules for—for going in, but I can, I can tell you them on the way.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Great! We can all watch together! Unless you’re meeting people there, of course.”

            Wen Ning seemed to perk up a little. “O-oh! No, I-I don’t have anyone to watch with. My, um, my sister isn’t here, so…but yes! I can vouch for you! That would be no—no problem!”

            Wei Wuxian had always been too friendly too fast. He lunged forward to grab the other boy’s wrist, pulling him between himself and Lan Wangji. “So, you’ll watch with us, then?!”

            Wen Ning flushed darker, “Ah, um—y-yes, I would…like to. If you don’t mind, that is.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Great! Five is even better than four! We were planning on breaking in—I mean walking in!” he added loudly to tease Lan Wangji again. “We were planning on walking near the area and watching from very, very far away, but this is way better!”

            Wen Ning gave a shy laugh and started walking. “Ah, o-okay! Then, um, let’s go th-this way. It’s quicker.”

            Wei Wuxian and the rest followed behind him. “Thanks, Wen Ning!”

            The other boy waved a hand. “Oh, th-there’s no need to, um…to say that. Actually, I wanted to say it to you…”

            Wei Wuxian wondered, “Oh? What for?”

            Wen Ning blushed, “For, um…before the archery competition began, for, you know…t-talking to me and being so nice.”

            Lan Wangji’s light-colored eyes drifted to Wei Wuxian slowly.

            Wei Wuxian gave Wen Ning a broad smile. “There’s no need, there’s no need! You really are a great archer.”

            Wen Ning laughed nervously. “No…not really. I didn’t mean to make you lose face after you, um, vouched for me…”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “Don’t worry. I lose face at least twice a day.”

            Jiang Cheng wondered dryly, “How can that be? You have to have a face to lose it.”

            Wei Wuxian’s laughter bounced off the walls, drawing Lan Wangji’s gaze again. “That was actually funny, Jiang Cheng!”

            Jiang Cheng shoved him back a step. “You can shut up.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered and returned to Wen Ning. “You really are good. You just need to be a bit more confident, but that can be worked on. If you ever have the chance to, you should definitely come to Lotus Pier! I can show you around and help you train!”

            Lan Wangji’s steps faltered.

            Jiang Cheng turned around at the same time to smack Wei Wuxian. “You really do think you’re a role model, don’t you?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Aren’t I? I did get first place, after all…”

            Jiang Cheng, “You’re so full of yourself! You’ve gotten even worse lately. There’s no helping you.”       

            Wen Ning hurried to intervene. “Ah—I-I didn’t mean to cause a problem!”

            Wei Wuxian grinned as he dodged Jiang Cheng’s next smack. “Ah, don’t take him too seriously. He punches about as well as he shoots arrows…”

            Jiang Cheng, “You—!”

            Wei Wuxian cackled, “Ah! Mercy! Mercy! I was only—ow! I was only kidding!!! Jiang Cheng! If you don’t stop right now—hahahaha—I’m going to thrash you!”

            Jiang Cheng, “Ha! Try it, see what happens.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Ow! Ah! Mercy!”

            Wen Ning glanced at the others to see if this was normal and did a doubletake. “Oh, wh-where is Lan Er-Gongzi? Is he not coming?”

            Wei Wuxian stopped fighting with Jiang Cheng. “Ah? He was just beside me. Where’d he go?”

            Jiang Cheng fixed his robes. “Probably had enough of your mouth and took off. I would if I could.”

            Wei Wuxian snorted, “Your life would lose meaning without me.”

            Jiang Cheng, “I think it’d be a lot easier, actually.”

            Wei Wuxian, “You’d turn into a bitter, sarcastic brute without me. I keep you young, Jiang Cheng.”

            Jiang Cheng, “You keep me on my toes, anyway.”

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand, “You guys go on ahead. I’ll go search for him and catch up to you!”

            Wen Ning glanced nervously at the others, whom he didn’t know, and then back at Wei Wuxian. “I-I can help you look, if you’d like.”

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s okay! You guys go on in and find a good place to watch! I’ll find Lan Zhan and meet you there.” With that, he waved and started jogging back the way they’d come.

            Wen Ning’s eyes widened. “He…he calls Lan Er-Gongzi by his birth name?”

            Jiang Cheng, “Yep. He’s presumptuous like that.”

            Nie Huaisang chuckled, “You get used to it.”

            Wen Ning, “O-oh…um, it’s this way.”

            Nie Huaisang, “You mentioned a lot of rules before?”

            Wen Ning began to lead the other two again. “Oh…um, not a lot. But…a few. The first one is the most important. Once we get there, we’re not supposed to talk anymore. It’s actually, um, forbidden.”

            Jiang Cheng, “Looks like Wei Wuxian will have to watch outside after all.”

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian had backtracked nearly to the Sun Palace when he finally caught up to the other boy. Most cultivators were still at the banquet, so the flash of white robes ahead was easy to spot.

            Lan Wangji had already crossed the plaza and almost reached the staircase to the Wen Sect’s main hall.

            “Hey, Lan Zhan! Wait for me!”

            Lan Wangji stopped below the stairs but didn’t turn around.

            Grinning, Wei Wuxian slid to a halt beside him. “Lan Zhan! You walk so fast. I thought I’d have to search all of Nightless City just to find you.”

            Lan Wangji’s voice was neutral. “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “What do you mean? You wandered off! I thought Lan Zhan was older than three, hahahaha—ah!” He pretended jumped aside when Lan Wangji gave him a sharp look. “How scary! Don’t hit me, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji just shook his head and looked past him. “Why are you here? You said the ceremony will start soon. You will miss it.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Well if I miss it, it’ll be your fault. You’ll have to make it up to me, because I’ll be so sad if I don’t get to see it.”

            Lan Wangji replied indifferently, “If that is the case, then you should go back.”           

            Wei Wuxian, “You’re right, we should go back. Why’d you leave in the first place? Did you forget something?”

            Lan Wangji still wouldn’t look at him. “You have enough people to join you.”

            Wei Wuxian made a face. “Don’t you want to watch, too?”

            Voice tepid, Lan Wangji answered, “No.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh? Changed your mind, then?”

            Lan Wangji, “I did.”

            Wei Wuxian tried not to laugh and failed. “I have to say, Lan Zhan, you’re a terrible liar. I suppose that’s what happens when your sect prohibits it, hahahaha.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw seemed to tense. “I am not lying.”

            Wei Wuxian cackled, “You are! You still are, hahaha! This is just like when you’d watch us in the Cloud Recesses. You always looked like you wanted to join us, but you never—ah, wait!”

            Lan Wangji had flicked his sleeves and stormed off.

            Wei Wuxian caught up at once. “Don’t you know it’s rude to walk away when someone’s talking to you? Everyone always says you have the best manners in the world, hahaha. Why is it that you never give me any face, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply. His gait quickened as he walked upstairs toward the Sun Palace.

            Wei Wuxian ran ahead to cut him off.

            Lan Wangji tried to go around him, only to be blocked again. Finally, he leveled a dry look ahead, unwilling to make eye contact. “What do you want.”

            Wei Wuxian pouted, “You won’t even look at me when you speak to me? Lan Zhan, you’re just getting ruder and ruder.”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw clenched.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Okay, okay. What I want is for you to come back with me! Won’t your brother be so disappointed in you if you return after only fifteen minutes?”

            Lan Wangji, “Why?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Because he wanted you to have fun!”

            Lan Wangji, “No. I mean, why do you care whether I am there or not? There are plenty of people to keep you company.”

            Wei Wuxian touched his heart. “Lan Zhan, how can you imply something so cruel? I didn’t invite you because I was bored or wanted just anyone to come. If that were the case, I would’ve asked lots of other people to come, too.”

            Lan Wangji seemed frustrated. He struggled with how to reply, opening his mouth before closing it. Unable to express what he wanted, he settled for only half the problem. “You treat everyone exactly the same.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Oh? Is it that you want to be treated special, Lan Er-Gege?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression darkened considerably with the honorific. He tried to pass Wei Wuxian again.

            Wei Wuxian stuck an arm out, hurrying to block him. “Stop trying to leave, Lan Zhan. I’m not going to let you, so you might as well just give up and do what I want instead.”

            Lan Wangji turned his head away. He was clearly angry but did indeed stop trying. He took a moment to regain control over his voice, then asked tonelessly, “What do you want?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I already told you! I want you to come to the lantern lighting with me.”

            Lan Wangji, “No. What do you actually want?”

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin and laughed, “Ah, you’ve seen through me so quickly. Fine, fine, fine…I’ll be honest with you, then, Lan Zhan. This is rare for me, so you better listen up! You see, the thing is, I wanted to apologize.”

            Lan Wangji looked ahead once more, appearing to have entered a realm of Zen. “That is not necessary.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Really? I think it is. Because you still won’t even look at me. Look, I’m not sure what I did, exactly, but I clearly upset you more than ever—so much that you’re trying to avoid me, which you haven’t done in the past. So…tell me!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze flickered to him. “Tell you what?”

            Wei Wuxian gave a disarmingly warm smile. “Tell me what I can do to make it up to you. I’ll do anything you ask, anything at all. Tell me!”

            Lan Wangji shook his head. “…Wuliao.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “What? I’m serious this time! You always think I’m messing with you when I’m not. If you don’t want to come with me to see the lanterns, then tell me what you do want! Want me to copy the Lan Sect rules again? Want me to kneel for the rest of the night? Want me to find you another rabbit?”

            Lan Wangji thought he was mocking him. His expression darkened. “Ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Lan Zhan, I really am very serious. I’ll do whatever you want to make you not be mad anymore. You’re so scary when you’re mad, because you give me the silent treatment, which is the worst thing in the world. Yell at me all you want, but don’t ignore me. You know how I am, Lan Zhan. I want attention most of all.”

            Lan Wangji looked further away. “Absurd.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, you’re using up your vocabulary so fast already.”

            Lan Wangji tried to walk away.        

            Wei Wuxian, “Ah, stop, stop, stop. I really am sorry. It’s just so easy to tease you…but I really want to apologize. Let me make it up to you! I’ll do anything. I’ll beg, I’ll plead—I’ll kneel for you!” At once, he dropped to the wide step beneath him and looked up with a grin. “How’s this? Better?”

            Lan Wangji took a step back. “You are absurd. Get up.”

            Wei Wuxian winced, “You know, this really is a good punishment. In the Cloud Recesses, your paths weren’t nearly as hard as this step. I’ll stay here as long as you like until you think I’ve learned my lesson. Does that make you less mad, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s jaw tightened, contrarily appearing much angrier. “Get up, Wei Ying.”

            Wei Wuxian shook his head. He edged closer on his knees, musing, “Hey, Lan Zhan, on second thought…you better hurry up and forgive me soon, or someone might come out and see me on my knees for you and wonder what we’re doing…”

            Lan Wangji’s ears darkened as rage flashed across his eyes. “Utterly shameless!”

            Wei Wuxian cracked up. “I was only kidding, Lan Zhan, hahahaha. You’re always so serious. We’re both men anyway; what could they think we’re doing? Hahahahaha—”

            Lan Wangji’s grip on Bichen grew so tight that his knuckles paled.

            With a grin, Wei Wuxian wondered, “Is it a fight you want? Will that make you feel better?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to struggle for a moment. “I want you to leave me alone.”

            From his knees, Wei Wuxian snatched Lan Wangji’s wrist when the other boy tried to leave.

            Lan Wangji’s voice turned icy. “Let go.”

            Wei Wuxian tightened his hold. “Just listen for a second, okay?”

            Lan Wangji, “Let go.”

            Wei Wuxian, “In a minute. Look, I know you think I messed with you on purpose earlier, but I really didn’t! I wasn’t lying, either. Your forehead ribbon really was crooked, and I—”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes flashed with fresh anger as he tried to free himself. “Be quiet.”

            Wei Wuxian, “—I just wanted to help fix it. I grabbed it just to—”

            Lan Wangji’s expression became frightening. “If you continue to speak, you will be silenced.”

            Wei Wuxian blinked in surprise. He won’t even let me talk about it? What an overreaction!

            Before he could reply, the doors to the Sun Palace opened. A few cultivators came out and saw the pair below.

            Lan Wangji wrenched his arm away and took the stairs down to the plaza.

            Wei Wuxian got up and chased after. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, wait up!” He grabbed Lan Wangji’s arm to try to stop him.

            Lan Wangji pulled away and walked more determinedly.

            Wei Wuxian, “Stop! Just listen to me for a second! I just want to—” He tried to reach for the other boy’s sleeve again but missed. His fingers closed around the fluttering end of a pale ribbon.

            Lan Wangji’s reaction was immediate.

            Bichen unsheathed with a loud shing, and then the icy blade was slicing through the air.

            Wei Wuxian was so shocked that he laughed. “So you did want to fight! Okay, Lan Zhan, okay.” Suibian’s sheath crashed against the crystalline blade as he blocked the swing. “If this makes you feel better, we can fight for the rest of the night! We can even—” He hesitated when he saw the look in Lan Wangji’s eyes.

            It went beyond fury, a mixture of rage, humiliation, and shame that Wei Wuxian could only identify as hatred.

            It was the same look he’d had on the archery field earlier that day, right before he’d left.

            Wei Wuxian realized how much he’d messed up and backpedaled—both physically and verbally. “Wait, wait, Lan Zhan! I didn’t mean to touch it again! I really just wanted to apologize! I didn’t mean to—”

            Lan Wangji swung Bichen impossibly harder, his entire body shaking. “You are insincere, disingenuous. You have no respect, no discipline!”

            Wei Wuxian unsheathed Suibian. He caught another blow that seemed like it might run him through right there. The clash of their swords echoed through the plaza. The white blade whined against the crystalline one as Wei Wuxian parried. He was starting to get a little mad himself at how relentless Lan Wangji was being.

            He shouted over the noise, “Look, this isn’t only on me! This is your fault, too, because you left while I was trying to apologize! If I’m not sincere, maybe it’s because you won’t let me be when I try. You’re always so suspicious of me, Lan Zhan, always thinking the worst. I just want to be friends with you!” He parried a final hit before making a bold decision. “Forget it. I’m not fighting with you anymore.” True to his word, he dropped his blade.

            Lan Wangji hadn’t expected such a move. His sword was already swinging through the air, mere centimeters from Wei Wuxian’s neck before he stopped it.

            Wei Wuxian hadn’t even flinched. With a grin, he teased, “See? I told everyone you don’t hate me. If you hated me, you wouldn’t have stopped.”

            Lan Wangji stared at him a moment before he straightened. He sheathed his sword with an even louder ring. When he spoke, his voice shook very faintly. “From today forward, I want you to leave me alone.”         

            He turned and walked away, white robes fluttering in the breeze.

            Wei Wuxian gave a doleful sigh. He knew if he went after him now, it’d only result in another fight. He needed to give Lan Wangji time to cool off.

            He sheathed Suibian and walked off in the opposite direction.

***

The banquet was still in full swing when the Lan Sect departed. Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren led the white-clothed disciples out of the Sun Palace.

            Lan Xichen inhaled slowly, appreciating the sweet tinge of the air outside the main hall.

            Lan Qiren was contemplative as they took the stairs down to the plaza. “Nie Zongzhu has requested we continue to instruct his younger brother for another year.”

            Lan Xichen smiled warmly. “I do not imagine Huaisang will be very happy about that.”

            Lan Qiren’s mouth set unhappily. “He does poorly due to his own inattention.”

            Lan Xichen, “It is not that he lacks attention, Shufu. He merely has passion in other fields than cultivation.”

            Lan Qiren nodded once. It was no secret that Nie Huaisang was a terrible student with poor marks, but Lan Sect disciples weren’t supposed to talk about others behind their backs. Having already said too much, Lan Qiren changed the subject.

            “Where is Wangji?”

            Lan Xichen, “I insisted he take the night for himself. He has worked very hard lately.”

            The tension in Lan Qiren’s shoulders loosened as he spoke of his beloved nephew. “Mm. He has made much progress.” He seemed to remember something and grew serious again. “But he left the Wen Sect’s archery competition before it was finished. It is unlike him to be so disrespectful.”

            Lan Xichen, “He knows he was wrong. He has suggested he copy Virtue twice as punishment for his discourteousness.”

            Lan Qiren, “Mm. That will do. What happened?”

            Lan Xichen began honestly, “Wei Gongzi—”

            Lan Qiren’s expression darkened. “Why am I not surprised? What did he do?”

            Lan Xichen, “I am afraid he pulled Wangji’s forehead ribbon off during the competition.”

            Lan Qiren stopped cold. He stared at Lan Xichen with wide eyes and a quivering goatee. His skin paled, and for a moment, he was at a loss for words. Furious, he managed, “He…he did what to Wangji?!”

            Lan Xichen raised a soothing hand between them. “He did not seem to understand the significance of such an action. It was merely an unfortunate accident.”

            Lan Qiren seemed personally offended on Lan Wangji’s behalf. He fumed, “He is too disobedient. Jiang Zongzhu has been too soft on him; he takes nothing seriously and does great harm to others.”

            Lan Xichen replied softly, “He did not mean to harm Wangji. It was an unintentional.”

            Lan Qiren was quiet for a long time before sighing. “That being the case, copying Virtue once will suffice. Tell Wangji.”

            Lan Xichen nodded graciously. “Yes, Shufu.”

            Lan Qiren, “It is almost nine. Find him and return to your rooms, Xichen.”

            Lan Xichen saluted his uncle with respect and turned right instead of left at the bottom of the stairs.

            Wei Wuxian had mentioned a lantern lighting when he invited Lan Wangji out, so Lan Xichen looked for someone to ask for its location.

            However, before he could find a member of the Wen Sect, he spotted his brother near a railing across the plaza. The railing was all that separated the edge of the courtyard from a precipitous drop, but the view from it was spectacular. When visiting Nightless City in the past, Lan Xichen had often stood in a similar place to admire the smoky mountains beyond.

            But it wasn’t the peaks Lan Wangji watched now. He stood before the railing elegantly, one arm behind his back. His head was tilted up a little, watching hundreds of lanterns drift through the evening sky.

            The lanterns rose from another part of the city. When they reached a certain height, sparks flew off and ignited into a thousand shining suns.

            Lan Xichen stopped beside his brother. Though Lan Wangji’s expression appeared blank, there was something in his eyes that seemed almost melancholic as he watched.

            Lan Xichen’s voice was soft when he spoke. “Wangji, did something happen?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t answer at first. “It is nothing to worry about, Xiongzhang.”

            Lan Xichen, “Where are Wei Gongzi and the others?”

            The pause was even longer this time. “I do not know.”

            Lan Xichen fell quiet. His brother continued to watch the lanterns almost impassively.

            After a moment, Lan Xichen offered, “They are indeed pretty. The Wen Sect’s method of lighting them is quite unique. I have heard many times of their grandeur but never seen it.”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            Neither mentioned how difficult it was to enjoy such a display, given the harm the Wen Sect had done in recent years.

            Lan Xichen asked after another long pause, “Did you and Wei Gongzi have another disagreement?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to search for the right words before giving up. “It is not worth discussing, Xiongzhang.”

            Lan Xichen, “I suppose not, so long as you are fine.”

            Lan Wangji nodded once. “I am.”

            Lan Xichen knew that if his brother had a problem he needed or wanted help with, he would tell him. Until then, it was better not to pressure him into answering.

            “Shufu asked me to find you. It is almost nine…” He hesitated. “…but we can stay a while longer if you would like. There is time.”

            Lan Wangji gazed at the lanterns, but it was clearly not the Wen Sect on his mind. “There is no need. It is late.”

            Lan Xichen, “Alright.”

            With a final look, the brothers turned and walked another path.

            Many of the sects were still attending the banquet, so the streets were quiet. The Lan Sect had been given guest rooms in the same courtyard as the Jin Sect, but it was likely the other disciples would not arrive so early.

            When they reached the courtyard to their rooms, both brothers paused when they saw a black-and-grey clothed figure lounging near the doors. A long blade of grass swung from the boy's lips as he hummed quietly to himself. He didn’t seem to notice their arrival, too busy disturbing an ant pile.

            Lan Xichen didn’t miss the way Lan Wangji’s eyes caught on the other boy with a flicker of hesitation before his expression returned to neutral.

            Lan Xichen smiled, “Wei Gongzi, what a surprise it is to find you here.”

            Wei Wuxian looked up and returned the smile as he got to his feet. “Zewu-Jun! I didn’t know you were staying here, too. I was waiting for Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Xichen, “I am afraid it is almost nine, Wei Gongzi.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “I know! I’m not staying. I just wanted to make sure Lan Zhan got this.” He gestured with his boot to a small sack near one of the doors. “There are precious goods in here! Someone would definitely want to steal it if they saw it sitting abandoned, haha. For you, Lan Zhan.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t even look at it. “There is no need.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “Well, too bad. I brought it all the way over here and got lost twice trying to find your room, so you’d better like it. Anyway, I better be getting back before Jiang Cheng thinks you pushed me off the mountain.” He saluted Lan Xichen with respect. “Zewu-Jun. See you later, Lan Zhan!”

            Like nothing had happened between them, Wei Wuxian skipped away and disappeared.

            Lan Wangji didn’t move.

            Smiling privately, Lan Xichen went to his own door. “Good night, Wangji.”

            Lan Wangji nodded once. “Good night, Xiongzhang.”

            Only after his brother was gone did Lan Wangji walk forward. He picked the little sack up and opened it slowly. A piece of folded paper lay atop a large pile of pale, peeled lotus seeds.

            Lan Wangji opened the letter slowly. His eyes drifted over the messy characters.

            “Lan Zhan, you’re a hard person to shop for! I’ve never seen you eat anything but plain rice, and no shop in the entire city sells such a boring meal. So, I got you my favorite snack instead, lotus seeds! I didn’t know if you knew how to peel them properly, so I did it for you. But I didn’t eat any! I promise, haha. Anyway, they’re not as good as the ones from Lotus Pier, but they’re not bad, either. Hope you like them!”

            The note finished off with a scribbled apology and a sad face.

            Lan Wangji read the letter twice before folding it with care. He went inside and set the small sack on the table in the center of the room. He put the letter on the bedside table.

            As he undressed for bed, his gaze drifted to the sack of lotus seeds.

            After some deliberation, he opened it and took one out. It was a creamy pale color and looked better than the ones he’d pulled from the lake near the Cloud Recesses all those months ago.

            He tasted it slowly. It was sweet and fresh with a small burst of flavor. It was clear why Wei Wuxian would like such a snack.      

            He closed the sack again and got into bed.

            It was only afterward that he processed what Wei Wuxian had said.

            To find, buy, and peel so many seeds, write the letter, and find the Lan Sect’s guest rooms all within the past hour meant one thing: Wei Wuxian had missed the lanterns.

            For the first time in years, Lan Wangji found it difficult to fall asleep at nine.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji’s fingers were running a gentle path along Wei Wuxian’s back. It felt so good that Wei Wuxian’s eyes fluttered shut, and he smiled happily.

            They had arrived back at the inn well after midnight—which was entirely due to Wei Wuxian. He’d wanted to sample every single food stall near the docks of this new city, and then he’d been so miserably full that he had insisted they walk it all off to feel better.

            As soon as they’d gotten into bed, Wei Wuxian had thrown himself over Lan Wangji, hugging his neck and listening to his soft breaths. It was very late, but he wasn’t ready to sleep at all.

            Considering the hour, at the very least Lan Wangji should have been tired, but he could sense how wide-awake Wei Wuxian still was.

            Feeling the way Wei Wuxian had begun to shapelessly draw over his robes, Lan Wangji turned and brushed his lips across his forehead.

            Wei Wuxian grinned at the gesture and nuzzled even closer. “Lan Zhan, can I ask you something?”

            Lan Wangji’s voice was, as always, tender on even just the single syllable. Wei Wuxian had noticed his tone growing softer and softer with him of late. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Do you remember your childhood?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. Many things.”    

            Wei Wuxian picked his head up from Lan Wangji’s shoulder with a broad grin. “Really? Tell me some! Did you ever have a rebellious phase? Was there ever a moody Lan Zhan? Before me, I mean.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched with affection. “I spent most of my time studying with Xiongzhang or training with Shufu.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Most of your time?”

            Lan Wangji, “Once a month, Xiongzhang and I were permitted to see our mother. We did not train on those days.”

            That statement hung in the air a moment. Though his tone was entirely neutral, the fact that the studious Lan Wangji had taken a whole day off meant that what Lan Xichen had said was true: Lan Wangji really had looked forward to those days with his mother.

            Wei Wuxian wanted to ask more, but he faltered. Is it wrong to ask about his mother? Will it make him sad?

            Lan Wangji read the hesitation in his eyes. His fingers delicately ran across Wei Wuxian’s cheek. “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I was wondering if you remember much about her. Your mother, I mean.”

            Lan Wangji nodded once. “Mm. I do.”

            Wei Wuxian smiled, “That’s good, right? What was she like? She must have been very gentle.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze drifted just over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “Mm. I remember she was very kind. She was also playful, though. She liked to laugh, like you.” Lan Wangji’s eyes returned with tenderness. “She liked to try to get us to laugh, as well.”

            Wei Wuxian snickered, “What an ambitious woman!”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Did it ever work?”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched very faintly. “…Yes.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “Oho! How impressive, Lan Furen!” He played with Lan Wangji’s collar absently. “So, you really did look forward to it, then? Seeing her?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. We both did.” His fingers traced the length of Wei Wuxian’s red ribbon before returning to his back and resuming their path. “It was not until I was older, after she was gone, that I learned the truth of her situation. At the time, I did not know why she was not always around, nor did I know why we seldom saw our father.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Did you see him once a month, too?”

            Lan Wangji, “We did not. While our mother was kept in the Jingshi, our father had devoted himself to a life of secluded meditation. I recall him breaking it only once in the days before our mother died.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Only once? Wow, something important must have happened then.”

            Lan Wangji nodded slowly. “When I was still very young, Xiongzhang fell ill.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Was it serious?”

            Lan Wangji, “He was not expected to live.”

            Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened. “That serious?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. His fever held for many days. I did not leave his side.”

            Wei Wuxian whispered softly, “Were you scared?”

            Lan Wangji’s fingers seemed to slow. “I was. At the time, I was too young to properly understand the finality of death. But Shufu was scared, and therefore, so was I. Our mother was allowed to stay with us. It was the only time she was given permission to leave the Jingshi. It was also the only time I had ever seen her cry.”

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t explain why, but he found himself hugging Lan Wangji more securely. “Your father came, too?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm. Our father visited only once during that week. He sat with us for several hours in silence, then returned to secluded meditation.”

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t imagine what that must have been like. Awkward? Sad? Complicated?

            He decided not to ask. “What happened to Zewu-Jun? How did he get better?”

            Lan Wangji answered honestly, “I do not know. Shufu and the others were certain he would die, yet one morning, his fever broke and he woke up.”

            Wei Wuxian exhaled slowly. “Wow, I never knew that had happened. I’m glad he was okay.”

            Lan Xichen was the only person who had ever understood Lan Wangji; Wei Wuxian didn’t want to imagine Lan Wangji losing him at such a young age. What would a child as stubborn as Lan Wangji have done? Would he have kept returning to Lan Xichen’s room, waiting for the impossible? He would have lost not only his mother but his brother, left in the company of only his stern uncle.

            Wei Wuxian ducked his head into Lan Wangji’s neck and hugged him tighter. “You said he only broke seclusion once before your mother died…did you see your father more after?”

            Lan Wangji, “Not very often. He did not break seclusion lightly, but there were a few times, years later, that he asked to see us.”

            Wei Wuxian remembered the silent way Lan Wangji had cried in the cave of the Tulu Xuanwu. “What was he like?”

            Lan Wangji seemed to consider his response. “At the time, I thought he was dutiful. Honorable.”

            Wei Wuxian pondered, At the time. “Did that change?”

            Lan Wangji, “No. But now I think I understand him better.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t hear anything in Lan Wangji’s tone, but the words made him want to shelter him somehow. “What do you think now?”

            Lan Wangji, “I think he was lost.”

            Lan Wangji didn’t add more, and Wei Wuxian didn’t press. He heard clearly the word Lan Wangji wanted to use: Broken. After all, Lan Xichen had drawn a pretty clear picture for how Qingheng-Jun must have felt. Protecting the one he loved, yet denying himself the pleasure of seeing her smile, hearing her laugh, exploring the world with her. But also knowing that she was his wife not by choice, that she didn’t love him, that she might leave if she could.

            As a kid, such a tragic concept wouldn’t have made Wei Wuxian so sad but being with Lan Wangji had changed his perception of love.

            He couldn’t imagine Lan Wangji marrying him to save him, only to never see him again. 

            He tightened his hug again and changed the subject.

            “What age did you start cultivating?”

            Lan Wangji, “Shufu began to teach me to cultivate through the guqin when I was four.”

            Wei Wuxian made a noise of surprise. “So young? Did you enjoy it?” He lifted his head and stuck out his lower lip. “It must’ve hurt your little fingers so much.”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze softened. He brushed the backs of his fingers across Wei Wuxian’s cheek. “I enjoyed it very much.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Which part did you like best? The music or the way it felt to form your golden core?”

            Lan Wangji, “The music, at first. I was taught Inquiry at a young age; it was only after I learned to communicate with spirits that I began to focus more on cultivation. The more Shufu gave me to practice, the more I wanted to improve. When I was given free time, I continued to practice in private.”

            Wei Wuxian ran his thumb across Lan Wangji’s lower lip. “How studious! I’d expect nothing less of Hanguang-Jun! What about swordplay? When did you begin learning that?”

            Lan Wangji, “When I was six.”

            Wei Wuxian was surprised again. That was the same year his mother had died; which had come first?

            He mused, “So young! Did you ever hurt yourself?”

            Lan Wangji shook his head faintly, “Shufu instructed me with wooden swords until I improved enough.”

            Wei Wuxian nodded approvingly. “Good, good. You were so hardworking when you were young, Lan Zhan! Unlike me, hahaha. I spent all my time playing, hehe. Was your uncle always as strict as when we were teenagers?”

            Lan Wangji, “Mm.”

            This made Wei Wuxian pout again. “It must’ve been so hard on you, having such high expectations from your elders. You were just a little kid, after all.”

            Affection pooled within Lan Wangji’s eyes. “It did not trouble me.”

            Wei Wuxian, “If you say so…ah! If only we’d met sooner, Lan Zhan! I could’ve played with you and gotten you into so much trouble.”

            Lan Wangji, “What kind of trouble?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned happily, “All kinds! I would’ve shown you how to hunt pheasants and where to find the best loquats. We could’ve crept across lakes and stolen jujubes and run around the Cloud Recesses at night to catch fireflies. We could’ve skipped class and gone to Caiyi Town to buy candy and toys. Did you have any toys, Lan Zhan? Surely you had some, right?”

            Lan Wangji’s thumb traced the lower line of Wei Wuxian’s smile. “Probably more than one, but I remember a pellet drum most clearly. My mother had given it to me.”

            Wei Wuxian perked up, “I had one, too!! Well…I suppose most kids do, haha, but still! After my parents died, before Jiang-shushu found me, I vaguely remember someone giving me one! I loved it sooo much and played with it every day! …Until it broke, and then I was so sad I thought I’d die! Hahaha, can you imagine?!”

            For whatever reason, something about the statement or Wei Wuxian’s tone made Lan Wangji lean forward. The kiss was impossibly tender, and Wei Wuxian melted into it happily. He crawled a bit closer to make the angle better.

            When they parted, he grinned and teased, “I bet you would’ve liked me as a kid, before you got all serious.”

            Lan Wangji, “I liked you when I was serious, too.”

            Wei Wuxian’s laughter bounced through the room. “True! How true, though you hid it so well, Lan Zhan! I really had no idea. Hm…but when we were really little, I bet we would’ve had so much fun together. As kids, we could’ve played together all over the Cloud Recesses and Lotus Pier…later, we could have found secret places and explored every inch of each other.”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched. “…Shameless.”

            Wei Wuxian giggled at how soft his tone was, even on the reprimand. He licked his lips and moved closer, stopping mere centimeters from Lan Wangji. Quietly, he breathed, “Want to know what I think, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to his mouth and rose slowly. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian, “I think your uncle would have wanted to kill me back then.”

            Lan Wangji whispered, “Why?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Because it would have been so obvious. Even back then, he would’ve been able to see this look in your eyes. Everyone who saw us together, even as kids, would have always known how much you love me, how much you want me, every day.”

            Lan Wangji exhaled softly and closed the distance between them. His lips moved against Wei Wuxian’s in a deep, languid kiss.

            As it always did, such heat sparked a fire low in Wei Wuxian’s abdomen. He smiled into the kiss with a muffled sound.

            After a moment, he threw his leg over Lan Wangji’s waist and climbed over him. He pulled back breathlessly to kiss down Lan Wangji’s jaw, then murmured silkily, “Mm…want to know what else I think, Lan Zhan?”

            Lan Wangji’s hands had drifted under Wei Wuxian’s robes to clasp the softness of his thighs. “Mm.”

            Wei Wuxian entered into a very slow grind, his voice growing breathier. “I think…I won’t be able to sleep until you wear me out…”

            Lan Wangji’s eyes were closed. He turned his head, letting his nose drift across Wei Wuxian’s jaw. “Mm. Mark your words.”

            Before Wei Wuxian could even grin, Lan Wangji was kissing him once more.

            A thrill rushed through him. He quickened the roll of his hips gradually until they were both breathless. Lan Wangji’s hands pulled and pinched at his waist, encouraging the small gyrations.

            Wei Wuxian pulled Lan Wangji’s robes open. He explored his chest, growing hotter at how hard Lan Wangji’s heart was already pounding. As the kiss’s urgency grew, his fingers drifted up to Lan Wangji’s neck. On their path, though, they brushed against the sunburst brand below his collarbone.

            Wei Wuxian’s touch softened. He ran his thumb over the scar with tenderness.

            One of Lan Wangji’s hands rose to Wei Wuxian’s cheek. His fingers curled softly against his skin, keeping him close with burning fervency.

            Wei Wuxian’s lungs were already bursting. He removed his own clothes haphazardly. Lan Wangji waited until he tossed his robe aside, then surged up and brought him closer. He changed the angle of the kiss, tongue brushing against Wei Wuxian’s. One hand brought Wei Wuxian’s rolls faster while his other fingers laced through his hair.

            As Wei Wuxian smoothed Lan Wangji’s robes over his shoulders, his fingers were met with the endless scars marring his skin.

            Some days, Wei Wuxian felt things more strongly than others.

            Today, it swelled in his chest, welling up in his eyes and tightening like a vise around his heart. Tears slipped down his cheeks until he tasted a tinge of salt in their kiss.

            Lan Wangji’s hands lifted to his cheeks. His thumbs caught the flow of those tears almost shakily. His own eyebrows knitted together at the surge of emotion. It thickened in the air around them, weighing over them as prominently as the humidity outside.

            They didn’t use words this time. They didn’t need them.

            It was evident in every touch, every sound, every gasp.

            As the moon drifted across the sky, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian remained lost in one another. Moving in unison, nothing else mattered. Even when the sky turned a soft violet with dawn, neither so much as noticed.

            Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon tangled together with Wei Wuxian’s red one, caught between their interlaced fingers.

            Last year on this day, fall lectures were beginning. Lan Wangji had walked a moonlit path to stand below the wall where he had first met a bright, cheerful soul. His memory had always been good; even after so many years, he could still hear the ring of Wei Wuxian’s laugh, could still remember the warmth of his smile.

            Last year, Lan Wangji had been no less in love with Wei Wuxian than he had been twelve years prior. Though he appeared to have moved on, those who knew him best—Lan Xichen, Lan Qiren, and even the young Lan Sizhui—could see the imprint such a bright soul had left on his own.

            As dawn broke, Lan Wangji moved with Wei Wuxian, fingers squeezing his. Foreheads pressed together, they shared every breath, every moan, every heartbeat.

            Last year, Lan Wangji had been alone.

            Now, he would never be alone again.

Chapter Text

When Wei Wuxian woke up, he expected to see Lan Wangji beside him. In the past, when they had used the Mo incense burner, the result had been a bit unpredictable. Sometimes he and Lan Wangji were together, and sometimes they saw each other’s dreams separately. Tonight appeared to be the latter.

            Wei Wuxian was a bit too excited to see another of Lan Wangji’s dreams. When they had returned to the Cloud Recesses, Wei Wuxian had suggested they use the incense burner again for fun and had barely let them finish dinner before lighting it.

            Now, he looked around in delight, wondering, Well, well, what do we have planned here, Lan Zhan?

            He stood in the center of the Library Pavilion. Though the second structure looked identical to the one the Wen Sect had burned down before the Sunshot Campaign, Wei Wuxian instinctively knew this was the original.  

            He couldn’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. The last dream of Lan Wangji’s he had seen here had been enlightening, to say the least.

            Wei Wuxian turned slowly, taking in the view.  

            It was a cheerful day outside. The massive magnolia tree beside the Library Pavilion was in full bloom. Large, pale blossoms splayed on the branches, and the occasional petal drifted in through the open window, filling the room with a sweet scent. Each one landed behind a slender, white-clothed figure who sat properly at a small desk.

            Seeing him, Wei Wuxian’s face lit up.

            Fifteen-year-old ‘Lan Wangji’ was hard at work, looking every bit as strict as Wei Wuxian remembered. He sat with perfect posture, one hand holding up an ancient book while the other copied its characters with clear, precise strokes.

            Wei Wuxian’s heart melted seeing such a young version of him. Though it wasn’t his first time, it never failed to elicit the same reaction.  

            “Lan Zhan!! You look so young!! Hahahahaha, look at your stern little face, hahahahaha, ah, I’m gonna die…”

            Of course, ‘Lan Wangji’ couldn’t hear him. He continued writing with an indifferent expression.

            This ‘Lan Wangji’ looked so similar to the older one, yet so different. His features were still a bit boyish at the edges. His long hair was a little shorter, barely brushing his waist. Twin strands fell neatly down his front, unperturbed by the occasional breeze that swept in through the window. His body was even more slender, his waist thin and graceful beneath his sash belt. He sat very properly, his back straight and his head held high as he worked with an expression so solemn and serious that Wei Wuxian wanted to both hug and taunt him simultaneously.

            He lamented, “Lan Zhan! Why aren’t you here so I can tease you?!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ dipped his brush in ink and began a new line of characters. Wei Wuxian watched with curiosity, wondering where this dream might take them. He plopped down beside ‘Lan Wangji’s’ table and tapped his fingers against the wood. Only then did he notice the two small rabbits curled up beside the impossibly serious boy. The black-haired one was nuzzled against the white-haired one, kicking lightly in its sleep.

            Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but laugh. He would never get over how adorably hilarious it was to see someone so stern love such soft little animals.

            Before he could comment on the matter, though, the doors to the Library Pavilion crashed open.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ didn’t react to the noise at all, though Wei Wuxian’s soul nearly left his body. He slammed his hand down on the table and scolded, “You brat!” to his past self, who couldn’t hear him.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ was also fifteen in this dream and looked it in every way.

            As soon as he saw himself, Wei Wuxian faltered. Did I really look this carefree once?

            After another moment, he mused, Lan Zhan really kept me in his thoughts so clearly…

            ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ eyes were bright, his smile even brighter. He seemed to flaunt his youthfulness with every movement. His hair was tied up high, bouncing and swaying cheerfully as he sauntered into the Library Pavilion.

            At a closer look, though, it was clear ‘Wei Wuxian’ had run the whole way there. His cheeks were a bit flushed, and his skin gleamed with a thin sheen of sweat that he wiped with his sleeve. His breaths were still racing, and his robes were a bit messy.

            He hid it well, though, ambling over with a casual grin, hands behind his back.

            “Lan Zhan! You’re early!”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ didn’t even look up from his work. “It is you who is late.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ feigned confusion. “Am I? I don’t think so. Of course, I always come at the same time every day, so you must be earlier than usual. Were you so eager to see me that you couldn’t wait to come here? Ah, Lan Zhan, you should’ve said something sooner! We can spend time together outside, too, you know.”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ ignored his tone and replied neutrally, “If you are late again, you will copy it an additional time.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ dropped to his spot across from the other boy, sitting as improperly as ever. He flashed another grin. “Ah? Not going to punish me this time, Lan Zhan?”

            Without interest, ‘Lan Wangji’ retorted, “Is it that you want to be punished?”

            Watching, Wei Wuxian pursed his lips together. He knew the young ‘Lan Wangji’ hadn’t meant that to come out the way it did.

            His younger self, however, had no trouble twisting it.

            Grinning, he teased, “Lan Zhan! What an indecent thing to ask.”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyes flicked up. He was utterly expressionless, but his earlobes darkened a little. “You…Shameless!”

            “Me? I’m not the one who said such a thing, Lan Zhan, really. How can someone as proper as you ask such an improper question?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyebrows tightened faintly. “You are deliberately twisting my words. You know what I meant.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ rested his chin innocently in his hand. His grin grew impossibly more teasing. “I really don’t think I do. Do you want to punish me for something, Lan Er-Gege?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ expression grew even colder. He went back to writing, choosing to look at the characters instead of the boy opposite him. “Do not call me that.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ snickered, “Why not? You don’t like it? Does it embarrass you, Lan Er-Ge—”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ said in a tight but otherwise neutral tone, “If you call me like that again, you will be silenced. Sit properly and begin your work.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ glanced at his own posture. His knees were up and spread open as he rested back on his hands. It was indeed improper, so, with a grin, he sat up. He dropped his arms on the table, then leaned over it. The motion brought him much closer to ‘Lan Wangji,’ giving him a clear view of the small puffs of fur beside the serious boy.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ gave another broad grin, “Hey, Lan Zhan, guess what I heard yesterday.”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ didn’t seem particularly interested. “What?”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ mused, “I heard that pets aren’t allowed in the Cloud Recesses.” ‘Lan Wangji’s’ hand hesitated over the page. “Believe it or not, I really didn’t know about that when I gave them to you, hahahaha. But you kept them anyway! I can’t believe it! Was your uncle mad? How’d you convince him to let you keep them? Did you tell him where they came from?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ was still completely expressionless, but his ears had grown darker. “If you copied like you were supposed to, you would have learned that rule weeks ago.”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ laughed, “True! But you didn’t answer my question…” He rose to his knees and leaned further across the table. “You’re so stern and strict that you abide by every rule. So then why did you keep the rabbits?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ kept writing, though he seemed uncomfortable.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ fingers walked across the table. “Ignoring me, Lan Zhan? How cold…” He stopped near where ‘Lan Wangji’ was still writing. After a brief hesitation, his fingers lifted and rested over ‘Lan Wangji’s’ hand.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ froze. His eyes flicked up sharply. “What are you doing?”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ leaned closer. “Haven’t I made it clear already?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ tried to pull away, but ‘Wei Wuxian’ followed. “Sit prop—”

            His words were cut off, and his eyes widened as ‘Wei Wuxian’ closed the distance between them.

            Watching the tender kiss, Wei Wuxian wasn’t nearly as surprised. His heart melted as he chuckled, “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan…what a sweet dream.”

            ‘Lan Wangji’ was frozen for a long second, and then he reeled back. When they parted, the soft tch of the kiss made his ears darken. “Wei Ying! Wh-what are you doing?!”

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ grinned, “Kissing you. Surely you know about this? I’ve done everything I can think of to make you do it first, but you’re just so stubborn, Lan Zhan…” He tightened his fingers over ‘Lan Wangji’s’ and tugged gently at his collar. “What’s wrong? Didn’t like it?”

            ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyes fell to ‘Wei Wuxian’s’ grin. After fighting with himself for a moment, he surged forward.

            Watching, Wei Wuxian’s heart shook even more when he saw how ‘Lan Wangji’s’ eyebrows pulled together—finally giving into the thing he wanted most.

            ‘Lan Wangji’ gasped quietly and reached for the other’s cheek to keep him there.

            ‘Wei Wuxian’ smiled into the kiss.

            An instant later, ‘Lan Wangji’ deepened it. He knelt up to meet ‘Wei Wuxian’ better, fingers lacing through his hair.

            Slowly, the room began to fade.  

            It wasn’t obvious at first, but then Wei Wuxian noticed the way the colors of the books began to melt away. The spines bled into dozens of bright colors that dripped and pooled on the floor. The shelves around them fell back, soundlessly colliding with one another until they disappeared. The colors in the room waned until the magnolia tree was all that remained, and even that withered.

            In place of the Library Pavilion, images began to slowly flash by—so many that Wei Wuxian wondered when, exactly, Lan Wangji had had this dream, because the places that came to life around them were all too familiar—places in Gusu, Qishan, Yunmeng, even Yiling. The images molded into one another, sprawling and expanding before dissolving, while the two in the center remained caught in an intimate embrace.

            In the Cloud Recesses, they were fifteen, kissing each other from opposite sides of a small desk. At the Wen Sect’s archery competition, their kiss was just as tender, just as passionate, as ‘Wei Wuxian’ clutched a thin, pale ribbon between his fingers. In the cave of the Tulu Xuanwu, beside a bright fire, their lips remained interlocked, fingers intertwining. On Phoenix Mountain, their bodies crashed to the forest floor breathlessly, the kiss growing hungrier, more desperate, as hands explored and tugged at clothing. In Yunmeng, atop a building with fluttering red curtains, the kiss was even deeper, their fingers so tight around each other’s that their knuckles were pale. Deep within the Demon-Slaughtering Cave of the Burial Mounds, ‘Lan Wangji’ held ‘Wei Wuxian’ close, fingers digging into his pale waist as ‘Wei Wuxian’ moved over him.

            The message of the dream was clear and tugged at Wei Wuxian’s heart. Every missed chance, every time he hesitated, every time he regretted not staying at my side. Could have been like this all along.

            The dream shifted again. As the scene in the Burial Mounds faded, another took its place.

            In it, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian travelled down a long forest path. Wei Wuxian sat atop Little Apple, cheerfully playing Chenqing. The sweet, melodic sound of WangXian drifted through the air, each note ringing with longingness.  

            Lan Wangji watched him play with affection. His fingers were loose around the reins, his steps even and slow as he listened.

            Upon finishing, Wei Wuxian twirled his dizi and grinned, “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, we can stay just like this, right? Forever?”

            The last time Wei Wuxian had said something like this, Lan Wangji had gotten embarrassed and looked away.

            This time, his expression only softened.

            With tender eyes, he nodded, “Mm. Every day.”

Chapter Text

Then

Wen Qing cursed under her breath. Using her wrist, she swept short strands of hair away from her eyes. The impatient gesture earned her little more than a thin smear of dirt over one eyebrow, but she hardly noticed.

            At the moment, she was too busy grumbling to herself. “…Goes into town for radish seeds and brings back potatoes…How many times have I told him that they’re too hard to maintain? But does he ever want to listen to what I have to say? No, of course not. Why should the Yiling Laozu bother with anyone else’s opinions?”

            Wen Ning was kneeling in the dirt beside her. He worked just as hard as her, but the labor was far less arduous for him. While his sister was rendered breathless, flushed, and sweaty, he seemed no more troubled than if he were sitting still. His skin was no longer capable of sweating or reddening, and he had no need to breathe.

            Though his sister’s tone was harsh, Wen Ning knew her words held no real enmity, and they both knew Wei Wuxian wasn’t the type to dismiss other people’s thoughts or views.

            Despite her bitter words, when Wen Ning looked up at his older sister, he really felt an immense sense of admiration. Though he resembled a corpse in appearance, he could still feel things very deeply. He couldn’t cry, but he could feel overwhelming grief; he couldn’t smile, but he could feel boundless joy.

            Now, he couldn’t help being awed by his sister. She had grown up in far different circumstances, treated with dignity and respect. She had never had to do the things she did now, had never dirtied her hands or toiled in the soil for hours on end. It wasn’t that she’d never worked hard—after all, she hadn’t become one of the best medics in the cultivation world for nothing—but it was a different sort of labor that consumed her days now.

            Neither of the siblings had ever been particularly athletic. His sister had chosen a path to exercise her mind, and he had followed quietly in her footsteps. So, though the farm work shouldn’t have been as grueling as it was, his sister was more prone to suffer sore muscles and strained limbs. But most of the Wen Sect’s remnants were too young, too old, or too weak to sow the earth, leaving only a few who could manage the workload.

            Still, she had never once complained about her numerous duties on Luanzang Hill. And Wen Ning knew that her gratitude to Wei Wuxian far outweighed her frustrations.  

            Wen Qing was still muttering to herself, “…If he comes back with a bag of potatoes again, I’ll bury him in the fields and see how he likes it…”

            Wen Ning’s lips pulled up into a stiff smile. “Jiejie, don’t be angry.”

            Wen Qing threw another dead plant into the wheelbarrow a foot away. “I’m not!”

            Wen Ning’s dead eyes seemed amused. “You sound angry.”

            Wen Qing tore her rake through the ground to soften the dirt. “Well, I’m not. I’m annoyed. This is the fifth dead plant this week. I told him potatoes wouldn’t grow here; they’re easy enough to get started but are too hard to look after. He wanted to pout and whine and act all charming—I don’t care how boring radishes are! At least they’d fill our stomachs or sell in town so we can buy clothes for A-Yuan. Autumn is almost over! We have too little food from the summer harvest and not enough money to buy anything else.”

            It was clear to Wen Ning how long his sister had been bottling all this up. It burst out at once, in little more than a breath.

            Wen Ning didn’t know what to say at first. He dug a new hole to buy himself a few seconds. Though his hands could be quite terrifying under certain circumstances, he handled the new seedling with great care. “I think Wei Gongzi takes comfort in meals. He wants everyone to not just feel full but…safe.”

            Of course, Wen Qing already knew this.

            She was quiet for a moment before adding, “That’s fine when we can afford that luxury. But we don’t always even have a meal every day. The fact is, this mountain isn’t meant to grow anything. It’s hard enough to find water for us to boil and drink, let alone to waste on finicky plants.”

            Wen Ning’s expression was blank, but his mind was turning over her tone. He knew it obviously wasn’t anger but concern that made her sound so cold. She worried for not only her brother but for every single person on this mountain—Wei Wuxian included. Perhaps Wei Wuxian the most; after all, she owed him a debt she could never repay and seeing the consequences of it weigh on him bothered her more than she let on.

            But when she got worried, it often manifested itself as anger.

            Wen Qing sighed heavily as she watered the new seed. “If this one wilts too, I’m sending him back down the mountain for radish seeds. We only have a small window of time for planting; we need things that will actually grow. I’ve been too lenient on him so far, letting him get away with such things because I felt bad. First the lotus plant experiment and now the failing crops. If a plant can’t grow somewhere, it can’t grow there! Being stubborn won’t magically fix that!” After a moment, she added, “Do you know what potatoes need to grow, A-Ning?”

            Wen Ning shook his head, looking up at her with wide-eyed curiosity.  

            Such looks always reminded her of the way he used to be.

            She continued, “Sun. They need lots and lots of sun, and there is no sun on this mountain. It’s blocked behind layers of resentment and clouds.”

            Wen Ning nodded thoughtfully, as though he had learned a new piece of wisdom. He took up the wheelbarrow and pulled it over to the next plant that had died.

            Wen Qing set to work uprooting it. It would have been much faster for Wen Ning to do, but she used such physical labor to vent the feelings locked in her chest.

            After a moment, she asked neutrally, “Have you seen him today?”

            Wen Ning shook his head in silence.

            Wen Qing pressed her lips together. “…Did he eat this morning?”

            Wen Ning, “Mhm! The tray was empty outside the cave when I went to get it.”

            Wen Qing sighed softly in relief but muttered with indifference, “Hmph. Good. At least he won’t starve to death, locked up in that cave.”

            As she repeated the process of pulling the dead plant from the ground, Wen Ning happened to glance up. His eyes caught on an approaching figure, and he jumped to his feet. He really was too fast now as a fierce corpse; one careless motion, and his sister was sprayed with dirt.

            Wen Qing scowled unhappily, “A-Ning! What are you—” She followed his stunned gaze to the path leading up the mountain and also froze.

            There were only three people Wei Wuxian had allowed the patrolling corpses at the foot of the mountain to let pass—only as a precaution, though, not because he actually expected them to come.

            When Wen Qing recovered from the shock, she remembered to greet the approaching figure with respect. Though covered in mud and sweat, she still saluted him earnestly. “Hanguang-Jun. I hadn’t expected to see you here again.”

            Lan Wangji’s clothes really were too nice for such a filthy setting. For half a moment, Wen Qing worried the mud that had accumulated at the edge of the small farm would dirty them, but not even the dust from the path seemed to stick to the hems of his white robes.

            With one hand, Hanguang-Jun held Bichen, and with the other, he carried a massive sack. Though it bulged with items, he didn’t seem burdened by the weight at all.

            When he heard her voice, he stopped just outside the potato field. Expressionlessly, he set the sack down in a clean spot and returned her salute. “Wen Guniang.”

            She was rather taken aback by the level of respect he offered. Given everything, it didn’t feel entirely appropriate, but Hanguang-Jun was nothing if not dutiful.

            Wen Qing felt a little self-conscious about the dirt staining her sleeves. She folded her hands to make it less noticeable. “What brings you to Yiling?” 

            Lan Wangji answered, “A night-hunt.”

            Wen Qing gestured to the sack with her chin but didn’t release eye contact. “This is…?”

            Lan Wangji, “A few things I was given but do not need.”

            Perhaps Wen Qing should’ve found this odd, but it wasn’t entirely unheard of. Sometimes, when villagers were saved by passing cultivators, they would offer trinkets or food or whatever they held of value, if they had no money to spare. Since Hanguang-Jun was well known for “being wherever the chaos is,” of course he would have been offered many such random items.

            However, when Wen Qing went over and opened the sack, it was clear some of these hadn’t been given but rather bought.

            There were indeed more than just a few things inside. Several bags of seeds rested at the bottom—seeds for expensive or rare vegetables that weren’t temperamental, required little water, and could be grown even in winter. Piled over them and carefully wrapped to keep them clean were several dozen steamed buns from the nearby town, still warm. There were several sets of porcelain and chopsticks and tucked into the side were many seasonings for cooking. One sachet in particular caught Wen Qing’s attention. Even from afar, the powder stung her nose.

            Wei Wuxian had complained more than enough times for everyone to know he preferred his food spicy.

            Ever since Hanguang-Jun had come to Luanzang Hill last, Wen Qing had casually wondered at the relationship between them. It clearly was not as hostile as the rumors said and nowhere near as simple.

            Wen Qing tied the bag up again and stood. “Thank you, Hanguang-Jun. This is…” She struggled to finish the sentence. Anything she came up with was over-the-top or too casual.

            Truthfully, these items were lifesaving, but such weighty terms were indeed difficult to say.

            Lan Wangji replied, “There is no need.”

            She didn’t miss the way his eyes drifted over the encampment, as though searching.

            Wen Qing glanced at her brother, who was still frozen in place. “A-Ning, take this to the kitchen and wait for me there. Careful, it has porcelain.”

            Wen Ning, “Mm!” He hurried over and saluted Lan Wangji with awkwardness. “Lan Gongzi…” Right after, he took the bag and jogged away.

            Wen Qing flipped her rake over on the ground so it was spikes-down. “Wei Wuxian is working in the cave.” She couldn’t bring herself to say its ridiculous name aloud—what ‘Demon-Slaughtering’? “I’ll take you to him.”

            Lan Wangji, “There is no need if he is busy.”

            Wen Qing wasn’t really in a position anymore to worry about offending anyone, so she replied straightforwardly, “It’d be rude to come all this way and not bother to see him, don’t you think? How would I even explain that to him? If nothing else, Hanguang-Jun, I think it would hurt his feelings.”

            Lan Wangji parted his lips to reply but none came.

            Put in such a position, he could only agree.

            Wen Qing ushered him forward. “This way, then.”

            By now, the path was well worn from travel. It led around the edge of the Wen Sect remnant’s encampment and further up the mountain. Soon, the crudely built houses disappeared, and cold, twisted trees took their place. They arched overhead, as though ready to drag travelers under. Ahead, the Demon-Slaughtering Cave gaped, as if prepared to swallow them whole. The entire mountain seemed to throb with a dark, resentful energy; it hung in the air, heavy and oppressive.

            Wen Qing was quite used to the ominous aura of Luanzang Hill. Months ago, she and the rest of the Wen Sect had had no choice but to entrust their lives to this demonic place. But as she walked beside the expressionless Hanguang-Jun, she suddenly saw Luanzang Hill for what it truly was. She began to sense just how wrong the air felt, how disturbing and unsettling.

            But perhaps it wasn’t the heavy resentment in the air or the lack of sunlight that made Luanzang Hill seem so grim today. Perhaps what was more disconcerting was that such a bright soul had been condemned to such a hellish place.

            At least, that’s what Wen Qing thought when she glanced at Lan Wangji and saw him stare blankly at the mouth of the cave.

            When they were halfway to it, she heard him begin quietly, “How…”

            But nothing else followed.

            Wen Qing was rather surprised. Though she hadn’t known him well before, she was more than familiar with his reputation. Lan Wangji had always been sure-footed. When he spoke, it was never without hesitation, always concise and clear. However, suddenly remembering the way he had held Wei Wuxian’s hand to feed him spiritual energy the day Wen Ning had gone on a rampage, she supposed it wasn’t all that unexpected.

            She glanced at him, feigning indifference. “How what?”

            He didn’t hesitate again. “How is he?”

            Wen Qing thought he was referring to that day, too. Frowning, she said, “He’s fine, of course. A-Ning didn’t do much damage. It only took a couple days for his wounds to heal.”

            When Lan Wangji didn’t reply, she realized she’d misunderstood.

            She amended, “Ah.” For a moment, she wasn’t sure how to reply, but in the end, she decided to be honest. Lying would have been unconvincing anyway. “It’s been hard on him, despite what he pretends. He misses his family. He’s been locked up in this cave for over three months now. I can’t get him to come out for anything. He says he’s working and will be done soon, but what work could keep him so preoccupied for so long?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze fell to the path.

            After a moment, he spoke again. “Has there been no word from them today?”

            By ‘them,’ she assumed he meant Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli.

            This was a bit confusing. “Today? No, not that I know of. Why? Has something happened outside?” Her first thought was that Wei Wuxian’s sister had given birth, but it was a few weeks early for that.

            Lan Wangji shook his head in answer but didn’t offer a further explanation.            

            With anyone else, Wen Qing might have demanded one, but whatever methods she might have used in the past would have been worthless against Hanguang-Jun. If he didn’t want to talk about something, he simply wouldn’t.

            She supposed it also didn’t really matter. The affairs of the cultivation world no longer applied to them, and if it involved them, they would know sooner or later.

            When they reached the cave, Wen Qing didn’t bother to make their entrance quiet. “Wei Wuxian! Wei Wuxian! Where are you? What’s this mess?? It’s gotten even worse since last time!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze drifted over the many talismans, compasses, and other unnamable objects that littered the cave floor. Countless flags and scraps of paper were discarded in the same manner, one category painted with cinnabar runes and the other tightly packed with characters and scribbled figures. The handwriting was beyond messy but uniquely Wei Wuxian’s. Though their short time together in the Library Pavilion had been years ago, Lan Wangji recognized it at once.

            Discarded among the designs and diagrams were a few toys—crudely carved butterflies and wooden swords. On a few sheets of paper were the clumsy drawings of a child featuring a dark-clothed figure and a small boy, both with curving eyes and wide smiles. In one drawing, the dark-clothed figure was burying the boy waist-down in what appeared to be a field; beside the boy, other children sprouted from the ground like turnips.

            Seeing this, Wen Qing wanted to scold Wei Wuxian all over again for putting such nonsense in Wen Yuan’s head. 

            She didn’t miss the careful way Hanguang-Jun walked around the objects, but she was far less considerate, openly kicking things out of the way to clear space. “Apologies, Hanguang-Jun. I’d excuse him by saying he doesn’t get many guests, but the truth is, he’s just careless.”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “It is fine.”

            Wen Qing called out again, “Wei Wuxian! I know you’re busy, but you can spare an hour. Wei Wuxian! Answer me when I call for you. Wei—” She stopped as soon as she rounded a corner. Her lips twitched, and she sighed heavily through her nose.

            Wei Wuxian was asleep on the cold stone floor, of all places. He had clearly been sitting where he now lay, working. There were many loose papers and objects circled around him. Each paper contained a piece of a diagram for some new contraption he was trying to bring into existence. Such a sight alone was enough to make her grimace. His last experiment had made her think the whole mountain was collapsing in on itself.

            For now, though, his work had been forgotten. He lay on his back, one arm tucked under his head. Lying on his torso and wrapped up tight in his long robes was Wen Yuan, who had seemingly been swallowed up whole by the dark clothes keeping him warm. Like the child, Wei Wuxian looked particularly soft. The dark aura that surrounded him these days had faded, replaced with a faint smile that persisted even in sleep.

            Lan Wangji’s expression seemed to falter. In a hushed tone, he said, “We should not disturb them.”

            Wen Qing happened to disagree—for several reasons.

            For one, Wei Wuxian had locked himself up in this cave for far too long already. She knew it even before she saw him, but afterwards, it was confirmed. His skin was particularly pale, almost sallow from the lack of sun. The undersides of his eyes seemed bruised from staying up too late and sleeping too little, and his waist was thinner than ever. Though he wore deliberately loose clothing, the outline of his figure was prominent—far slenderer than when they’d first arrived on the mountain.

            Wen Qing might not have been capable of dragging him out into the fresh air, but maybe Hanguang-Jun was.

            Second, she had no idea how long the two had been sleeping. If she really thought about it, she hadn’t seen Wen Yuan since early that morning. If they had been asleep even half that time, the toddler wouldn’t go down easily come bedtime.

            The third reason was the simplest. Wen Qing didn’t want to see the look on Wei Wuxian’s face if he learned someone from his past had arrived and left while he slept.

            She crossed her arms with a stern expression. “Wei Wuxian!”

            The shout finally startled both man and toddler awake. Wei Wuxian seemed to choke on his next breath. Without opening his eyes, he complained, “So scary…”

            Wen Yuan gave a huge yawn, wiping his eyes with the back of one tiny hand. “Xian-gege?”

            Wei Wuxian patted the boy’s face clumsily. “Shh, she won’t hurt you.”

            Wen Qing, “Him, no. But you, I haven’t decided yet.”

            Wei Wuxian shuddered. “How scary…aren’t doctors morally opposed to harming others?”

            Wen Qing, “Last I checked, I was a farmer, not a doctor.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “You’re both. And farmers shouldn’t hurt people, either.”

            Wen Qing’s lips twitched, but she hid the slight smile by kicking Wei Wuxian’s leg. “Why are you sleeping on the floor?!”

            Wei Wuxian, “Aiya! You’re so cruel.”

            Wen Qing continued bitterly, “It’s fine you want to risk your own health, but A-Yuan is still a child; the cave floor is too cold for him. What are we supposed to do if he gets sick?”

            Wei Wuxian defended, “He tackled me! I’m the victim here. I was minding my own business working when he suddenly forced me to the ground!”

            Wen Yuan giggled, as though he found the memory hilarious.

            Wen Qing shook her head. “What, you’re no match against the strength of a three-year-old?”

            Wei Wuxian, “Are you looking down on him because of his age? Wen Qing, I never knew you were so prejudiced. How can this be?”

            When it came to words, very few out outlast Wei Wuxian. Never one to banter, Wen Qing barked, “I’ve had enough of you. It’s time to get up. Come on, both of you!”

            Wei Wuxian raised his hands to his ears. “So loud…the cave echoes, you know?”

            Wen Qing, “I can get louder! I already told you to get up. You have a guest.”

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “A guest? Since when do we have—” He finally opened his eyes.

            The one beside Wen Qing certainly struck a breathtaking, almost godly figure. His white robes contrasted so starkly with their homely surroundings that Wei Wuxian wasn’t entirely sure he was awake.

            He gave a tired grin and rolled onto his side. “Oh? Lan Zhan, it’s you?”

            Lan Wangji was looking at him expressionlessly. He seemed to hesitate before quietly replying, “Wei Ying.”

            Wen Qing hadn’t ever been a maiden prone to blushing, but she averted her eyes when he spoke. Even an outsider like her picked up on the subtle tender note in his usually monotoned voice.

            Of course, Wei Wuxian didn’t notice.

            He chuckled, “Am I dreaming, or has Hanguang-Jun descended upon Luanzang Hill?”

            Wen Qing couldn’t take much more of this. “Ugh, would you get up already?! Is this any way to greet a distinguished cultivator? You’re so shameless, even I feel embarrassed for you! A-Yuan, come on, wake up. No, no, don’t go back to sleep. Come on, let’s go find Popo, alright?”

            Wen Yuan was too little to know the name Hanguang-Jun and didn’t really know much about receiving guests, but when he finally opened his eyes and blinked up at the figure beside Wen Qing, he surged upright. “Gege! Gege came back!” He immediately wrapped himself around Hanguang-Jun’s leg, squeezing it for dear life.

            Lan Wangji looked down at the extra weight on his leg. He was utterly expressionless, but his fingers were gentle when he patted the boy’s head. He then reached into his qiankun sleeve and produced a small pellet drum. “For you.”

            The toddler received it with shining eyes. “Thank you!! Thank you, Rich-gege!”

            Wei Wuxian burst out laughing. He finally stood, almost reaching Lan Wangji’s height as he dusted off his robes. “Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan. Look at you! Don’t tell me you came all this way just to give him more toys?”

            Lan Wangji met his teasing gaze without reply.

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “You shouldn’t have bothered. You’ve already bought his love! Did you know, Lan Zhan, he hasn’t stopped talking about you since you left. It’s always ‘Rich-gege gave me this’ and ‘Rich-gege told me that.’ Do you know what he calls me?! Poor-gege! Ugh! How unbearable!”

            Lan Wangji’s lips twitched faintly.

            Wen Yuan pointed out in a somewhat confused tone, “But Xian-gege is poor…”

            Wei Wuxian, “A-Yuan, how can you say such a thing? Once your new dad shows up, you want to embarrass me, is that it?”

            Wen Yuan startled, as he did every time Wei Wuxian teased him about this. “I-I-I didn’t call him dad!”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze seemed particularly soft even as he shook his head. Only someone like Wei Wuxian could have so much fun teasing a toddler.

            Wen Qing looked down. Wei Wuxian’s eyes were indeed brighter than they had been in months. Though he was always prone to smiling, it seemed more relaxed now, more natural. For some reason, the sight made her chest tighten; to her, the ghost of his former self was even more of a reminder of how unpayable her debt truly was.

            Wen Yuan began clacking his toy, too embarrassed to speak. After a few seconds, the soft beats echoing through the cave stopped, and he hung himself on Lan Wangji’s leg again. “Will you stay for dinner this time?! Xian-gege said he would cook tonight!”

            Wen Qing burst with a dry hah.

            Wei Wuxian touched his chin. “So excited that you can’t contain yourself?”

            Wen Qing, “So amused that you think you’d be allowed within ten feet of the kitchen after last time.”

            Wei Wuxian pouted, “Look at how everyone treats me, Lan Zhan. You’d eat my food, wouldn’t you?”

            Wen Qing was too embarrassed to stay longer. How anyone could treat a cultivator as prominent as Hanguang-Jun so casually was far beyond her. “Ugh, I don’t want to see you anymore. A-Yuan, come on, let’s give them some time to talk. Let’s go show your new toy to Popo.”

            The toddler clung to Hanguang-Jun even tighter. Written across his face was a big, fat no.

            Wen Qing gave him a stern look. “A-Yuan. Let go of Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji glanced at the boy. “It is fine. He can stay.”

            Wen Qing sighed, “If you’re sure. I’ll be in the kitchen, then. Hanguang-Jun.” With that, she turned and left.

            Wei Wuxian laughed, “A-Yuan, you’ll cut off his circulation with such a grip! Come, come, come.” When Wen Yuan didn’t let go on his own, Wei Wuxian stooped over to pick him up. Wen Yuan smiled happily at Lan Wangji, almost as tall as him in Wei Wuxian’s arms.

            The boy’s grin was only outmatched by the one holding him. Before Wei Wuxian could speak, though, he realized the cave was entirely too dank and dark for such an esteemed guest. “Ah, let’s go outside.” Winding through the cave’s maze-like tunnels, he mocked himself, “Look at how dingy my place is. Even after all this time, I still don’t have tea or somewhere for you to sit! What a terrible host I am, Lan Zhan, I’m sorry.”

            Lan Wangji looked down. “There is no need.”

            As Wei Wuxian walked, he shivered faintly. “Tch, Wen Qing wasn’t wrong about the floor. A-Yuan, you didn’t get too cold, did you?”

            The toddler was captivated by his new toy, twirling it back and forth. Realizing he’d been asked a question, he shook his head.

            Wei Wuxian, “Really? You really didn’t mind the floor?”

            Wen Yuan, “I wasn’t on the floor.”

            Wei Wuxian, “?”

            Wen Yuan giggled at his expression, “Xian-gege is comfy…”

            Wei Wuxian, “What?! You used me as a pillow? Who gave you permission to use me, the Yiling Laozu, as a pillow?!”

            Wen Yuan was laughing louder. Such a bright sound really did feel at odds with the Demon-Slaughtering Cave’s reputation.

            Wei Wuxian huffed, “Next time, I’m using you as a pillow. How does that sound?”

            Another giggle burst from the boy. “Xian-gege is too heavy…I’d die…”

            Wei Wuxian mimed a wound to his heart. “Aiya! A-Yuan, how can you say such a hurtful thing? If I were a maiden, I might faint dead away from such an implication.”

            Wen Yuan just giggled again, too caught up playing to reply.

            The clack of the drum soon outmatched their voices, and the conversation died down.

            Wei Wuxian glanced over at Lan Wangji as they walked. I wonder what brought him here today. It’s a bit shameless if I think it was just to see me…I really had thought our last meeting would be the last for a long time. It’s only been a few months, and he’s come back again. And what a coincidence that it just so happens to be today.

            Wei Wuxian suddenly smiled. He was immersed in his own thoughts and didn’t brace himself for the daylight. As soon as he stepped out, the light stabbed into his eyes. He gasped and shielded his face with his hand, instinctively backing into the cave once more. The step made him collide with Hanguang-Jun, who hadn’t expected such a reaction.

            Lan Wangji steadied him with a hand on his arm, which disappeared just as fast. “What’s wrong?”

            Wei Wuxian laughed at himself. His eyes even began to tear up from the pain, and he wiped them with his sleeve. “It’s nothing, it’s nothing. I’m just so happy to see Hanguang-Jun.”

            Lan Wangji sighed without response.

            Wei Wuxian realized it looked a bit silly for such weak sunlight to have such an effect. “I guess I’ve been inside too long. It’s A-Yuan’s fault I didn’t come out earlier. I would have, but if he doesn’t sleep at around this time, he gets fussy.”

            The toddler giggled, “No I don’t…”

            Wei Wuxian squinted at him, “Are you calling me a liar? He’s Rich-gege, and now I’ve been demoted even more to Lying-gege!” His hand dove for Wen Yuan’s ribs, tickling mercilessly.

            The motion elicited a shrieking laugh from the usually quiet boy. It shot clean across the forest, all the way to those in the small settlement atop Luanzang Hill. “Xian-gege, Xian-gege, Xian-gege, no, stop! Hahahahahahaha!!!”

            Wei Wuxian’s own laugh chased the toddler’s down the path.

            Lan Wangji watched, lips twitching.

            When Wei Wuxian was satisfied with his revenge, he stopped tormenting the toddler and instead rocked him in his arms. “If I set you down, will you be good?”

            In a creamy voice, Wen Yuan replied, “I’m always good…” His tone implied that he was confused, even hurt, by such an implication.

            Wei Wuxian, “No running around and no tugging on Hanguang-Jun, okay?”

            Wen Yuan nodded very solemnly, “Okay.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Let me hear you say it in your own words.”

            Wen Yuan, “No running, no tugging on Hangang…Hanguan…Hang-gang…”

            Wei Wuxian let him struggle for longer than necessary before laughing and repeating slowly, “Han, guang, jun.”

            Wen Yuan, “Hanguang-Jun.”

            Wei Wuxian pinched his cheek. “Good boy.”

            As soon as he was set down, Wen Yuan gravitated closer to Lan Wangji. True to his word, he didn’t hang off his leg but instead sat by his boots to play with his new toy.

            As Wei Wuxian’s vision adjusted, he stepped out from under the cave and also stopped next to Lan Wangji. He closed his eyes, breathing in slowly.

            Lan Wangji looked over at him and then down.

            Years ago, during his time in the Cloud Recesses, it had been nearly impossible to get Wei Wuxian to stay indoors for more than a few hours at a time; three months would have been unthinkable.

            After a moment Wei Wuxian opened his eyes and grinned, “So, what brings Hanguang-Jun to the illustrious Luanzang Hill today?”

            Lan Wangji almost seemed to hesitate before replying, “A night-hunt.”

            Wei Wuxian, “Oh?” He glanced sideways at the other, wondering in a dark voice, “Am I the prey?”

            Lan Wangji, “Of course not.”

            Wei Wuxian burst with a pfft. “You always take me so seriously! Lan Zhan, ah, Lan Zhan, you never change, no matter how old you get. It’s okay, it’s okay. Sometimes, it’s good to be consistent. It’s comforting, really. No matter how much time passes, Hanguang-Jun will never change. That should be a poem. I’ll call it, ‘The Seasons Change but Hanguang-Jun Does Not.’ What do you think? How is it?”

            Lan Wangji looked straight ahead, replying neutrally, “I think you are ridiculous.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “What, not wuliao?”

            Lan Wangji fixed his sleeves with indifference. “That too.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, but in his chest, something tugged at his heart. What’s this…don’t tell me I actually missed Lan Zhan saying ‘wuliao’ to everything I do and say? How could that be?

            Lan Wangji seemed to look for something to say, finally settling on, “I did not know you could cook.”

            Wei Wuxian answered at once, “Oh, yeah. I cook all the time. I’m really good at it.”

            Wen Yuan wrinkled his nose and looked up. “Qing-jiejie said you weren’t allowed to cook anymore…”

            Wei Wuxian, “Tch, why do you only hear me when you want to correct me?”

            Wen Yuan giggled and returned to his game.

            Wei Wuxian suddenly thought of something. On a whim, he asked, “Hey, Lan Zhan, how long do you have?”

            Lan Wangji, “What do you mean?”

            Wei Wuxian, “I mean, do you have to head back right away, or do you have time for a walk?”

            Lan Wangji looked at him. “I have time.”

            Wei Wuxian reached into his sleeve and pulled out a talisman. “Good.” He tossed it in the direction of the cave, sticking it to a wall at the entrance. It gleamed a brilliant red before dissolving. He flashed a grin at Lan Wangji. “Precaution. Let’s go, A-Yuan!” He swept the toddler off the ground, and together, the three descended the mountain path.

            As they walked, Wei Wuxian mused, “Tell me, Lan Zhan, has anything major happened outside?”

            Lan Wangji, “What would count as major?”

            Wei Wuxian replied, “Of course only the most important things. For example…if you’ve finally found a girl to marry?!”

            Lan Wangji’s brows seemed to furrow slightly. “Please do not speak of such ridiculous things.”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “Is it so ridiculous? C’mon, surely there’s someone who has caught your eye? A good little Lan Sect girl who follows all the rules and also thinks humor should be prohibited?”

            Lan Wangji didn’t reply.

            Wei Wuxian, “Alright, alright, don’t get pouty. You don’t have to share. It’s okay if you haven’t found anyone. I haven’t either, if it makes you feel better. Apparently, not many girls are interested in demonic cultivation, can you imagine that? I know what you’re thinking! But what about all the rumors?! The ones that say I kidnap virgins by the dozen and spend all day and night ravishing them, but ah—look around. No virgins here.” He grinned, glancing sideways at Lan Wangji. “Well…maybe one?”

            Lan Wangji looked away. “Can we speak of something else?”

            With a loud laugh, Wei Wuxian relented. “Fine, fine, fine, I won’t mention it again. Hm, what about…” He slowed, then finally stopped. “Have you heard any news from the Jin Sect?”

            Lan Wangji’s gaze returned. He decided to forego abstract terms. “She is happy and safe.”

            Wei Wuxian’s vision grew blurry. On a day like today, that was especially good to hear. He nodded once, voice steady as he began walking again. “Good. Jin Zixuan has been treating her alright?”

            Lan Wangji, “From what I have heard.”

            Wei Wuxian chuckled, “How could you have heard such things from another sect? Could it be that you asked after her on my behalf?”

            It was only an offhand comment, but Lan Wangji’s silence made him wonder if that was indeed the case.

            Wei Wuxian walked a step closer. “Thanks, Lan Zhan. There’s no way for an outcast like me to hear such things.”

            Lan Wangji said quietly, “There is no need to thank me.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t seem to hear, thinking quietly. After a moment, he wondered, “Then what about things in Yunmeng?”

            Lan Wangji’s expression grew stern. Tersely, he answered, “I have heard nothing from Yunmeng.”

            Wei Wuxian didn’t make much of Lan Wangji’s tone. He simply figured no news was good news. 

            They were nearing the foot of the mountain. In the past, the Wen Sect had set up a massive wall around the perimeter of Luanzang Hill to prevent others from venturing into the ominous mountain—less for people’s protection and more so their doors wouldn’t be banged down by concerned citizens. When Wei Wuxian had fled to Yiling, he had broken that wall down. Replacing it was an army of corpses that patrolled the area, walking sluggishly.

            Wei Wuxian was about to courteously ask after the Cloud Recesses and Lan Xichen when the sound of the disgruntled walking corpses drifted over to the pair.

            Lan Wangji instinctively reached for Bichen’s hilt before remembering their purpose.

            Wei Wuxian waved a hand at the same time. “Don’t worry, they’re just mine. They’re keeping the border. Surely you saw them when you came up?”

            Lan Wangji, “…Is such a method truly necessary?”

            Wei Wuxian mused, “What an odd thing to ask. Would I do it if it wasn’t necessary? Do I seem so bored to you? Of course it’s necessary. The cultivation world wants the Wen Sect remnants; this is the only way I can secure their safety. No one dares to do anything to me when I leave but many have tried to come up the mountain—brave souls crusading against the Yiling Laozu, blind fools who think they can end a battle before it begins.”

            Wei Wuxian’s voice had grown hard and dark as he spoke. Glancing at the child in his arms, who had also heard this change in tone, Wei Wuxian smiled and added lightly, “Ah, don’t worry, Lan Zhan. The corpses I put here don’t hurt anyone seriously. They just keep the line.”

            Lan Wangji parted his lips to reply but let the comment fall away unsaid.

            Wei Wuxian saw him restrain himself and looked away bitterly. Even if he didn’t say it, Wei Wuxian knew what Lan Wangji was thinking. He supposed it was too much to think someone from the Lan Sect could possibly understand his current situation.

            But he didn’t want to fight with Lan Wangji today.

            Looking back, he changed his tone. “Hey, Lan Zhan, there’s a place I’ve been wanting to check out, I just haven’t had the time. Since you’re here, why don’t you come with me?”

            Lan Wangji met his eyes and nodded. “Alright.” 

            Adjusting the toddler’s weight, Wei Wuxian smiled. “Don’t worry; it’s not far.”

Chapter Text

Shortly before the start of the Sunshot Campaign, the night before they were to be sent to the Qishan Wen Sect for indoctrination, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng had been playing around Lotus Pier as usual. Though it was late, the Jiang Sect’s residence was wide awake. Food stalls were open all night, and without a curfew, juniors and seniors alike wandered around outside.

            Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng had planned to spend their last night of freedom searching for lotus seed pods. At night, it was far easier to sneak into other people’s lakes and, though Jiang Cheng denied it and always blamed Wei Wuxian when they got caught, such nighttime adventures were fun for him, too.

            On their way to the lake, they found Jiang Yanli sitting alone, staring up at the moon. It was unusual for her to be awake at such an hour, so both were concerned. They worried Yu Furen’s bitter words at dinner—about the Wen Sect starving them and keeping them as hostages—may have frightened their sister. They wandered over to her, each set on cheering her up in their own way.

            Their concerns were spot on; Jiang Yanli was indeed very anxious about her brothers being sent off. Despite their best efforts, she remained only half-hearted.

            Jiang Yanli wasn’t an apprehensive person by nature, so the two had seldom seen her upset; on the contrary, she had always been a warm sense of comfort throughout their childhood. Her soothing nature could even bring Yu Furen out of her angriest outbursts.

            However, tonight, she struggled. She knew little about what the Wen Sect was doing, but she had heard from others that they were becoming more and more aggressive. Her mother wasn’t one to rail against other sects out of spite alone, and Jiang Yanli worried that her mother knew something she didn’t. Yu Furen’s angry fear was contagious, seeping into Jiang Yanli and making her feel helpless to shield her younger brothers.

            But how could she voice any of this to either of them? She was their older sister, and as such, she felt it was her job to comfort them, not the other way around.

            So instead of talking about her worries, she made a request.

            After they went to the indoctrination and returned to Lotus Pier, the three of them would go out and do something together. It was her own feeble way of putting a positive spin on the following day’s departure. Rather than worry about them every day, she could instead look forward to the day they would be together again. Similarly, if either of the boys found themselves homesick in Qishan, they could anticipate their upcoming trip.

            Jiang Yanli already had the perfect place in mind.

            In Yiling, she had heard of a large, beautiful garden allegedly inhabited by a gentle flower spirit—similar in nature to the one Wei Wuxian had nearly annoyed to death in Tanzhou but far more reclusive.

            It was said that centuries ago, an ordinary woman from the local village had gone to the nearby valley the day her husband died. She had no other family; her parents and her husband’s parents were long gone, and she had no children. All she had left was this valley, where she and her husband had spent countless hours together. 

            At first, she was content with simple visits. She would bring a book her husband loved and read the words aloud. But unless she spoke, the valley was silent; unless she moved, the valley was still. Even ravens avoided that desolate place. With her cheerful husband for company, she had never noticed how bleak it was; without him, it was all too clear.

            Finally unable to stand the silence, she decided to create a garden. If no life would grow there naturally, she would offer it on her own. She began with the flowers her husband had favored and looked after them with dedication. But this valley was stubborn. The seeds she planted never grew, and the plants she brought dried out in the sun.

            If the valley was stubborn, the woman was even more so. When seeds didn’t grow, she planted new ones. When plants died, she brought more. Through her persistence, she discovered only one type of flower would grow there: chrysanthemums. She loaded the valley with them, and then she waited.

            The following autumn, the valley overflowed with chrysanthemums of all colors. Violets, greens, whites, yellows, reds—they peppered the garden, brighter and fuller than anyone had ever seen.  No longer was that valley silent; it teemed with birds and bees and butterflies. As the flowers thrived, so did the woman’s love for the valley. It began to fill the hole in her heart and gave her peace and solace where she otherwise had none. She looked after it as a mother would her children, devoting more and more of her time to it. When the local villagers discovered her work, they named the valley Longevity Garden, to symbolize both the flower itself and the woman’s enduring labor.

            The woman enjoyed two autumns in Longevity Garden before she followed her husband. After she was gone, the villagers worried about the garden. Without her love and devotion, would the flowers wither? Would the valley return to its previous state, barren and empty?

            To everyone’s surprise, during the next year, the blooms were as full and bountiful as always. Even without anyone to care for them, they returned with vigor. In the mouths of the villagers, this could only be the work of something supernatural. Before long, a legend began in that small village, one that told of a woman whose love was so great that it birthed a gentle spirit. Formed from tenderness, the spirit stayed unseen in that garden and looked after it in the woman’s place.

            The legends only grew more ornate with time. Some said the garden was a beacon for troubled travelers, where lost souls could find peace and tranquility, no matter how heavy their burdens. Others claimed the spirit itself called out to such souls and welcomed them with the same love that had created it. Still others claimed that a rare white moth could be seen in the garden, and that the moth must be the spirit, there to offer refuge to those who needed it most. 

            Of course, none of these legends were true; they were only rumors spread by villagers that grew more romantic throughout the years.

            But the garden itself had withstood the test of time. To the present day, Longevity Garden was well-known in parts of Yiling for its endless waves of chrysanthemums and for the spirit that love had borne.

            It was to this place Jiang Yanli wanted to go.

            And so, that night, Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian promised the three would travel there together when they returned from the indoctrination. It finally managed to put their sister at ease; smiling at the two, she went to bed, but Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian sat there in silence a while longer.

            The three never did make it to that valley. After the incident at the Cave of the Xuanwu, Lotus Pier was destroyed, the siblings were split up, and Wei Wuxian went missing. By the time he returned, the Sunshot Campaign was well under way, and afterwards, everyone forgot about their promise that lone night so many months ago.            

            It was only after his sister had married that Wei Wuxian remembered her wish. Of course, there was no way to contact his siblings; he had officially betrayed the Yunmeng Jiang Sect, and Jiang Yanli was now Jin Furen. The things that had been so simple when they were kids had become so much more complicated.

            Initially, he’d had no intention of going; the place had been reserved for the three of them together—how could he journey there alone? But then Lan Wangji had surprised him by showing up. Wei Wuxian had been thinking of that garden and their innocent promise for months. He couldn’t go alone, and he couldn’t ask anyone from the Wen Sect to go, not even Wen Ning.

            Somehow, asking Lan Wangji didn’t feel wrong.

            As luck or fate would have it, the garden was less than an hour from Luanzang Hill.

Chapter Text

At first, Wei Wuxian was deep in thought, but it wasn’t long before he started up again. He was someone who liked to be familiar with others and he also liked things to be light and easy; despite the weight of the last few months, it was almost effortless to return to his cheerful, teasing self with someone from his past. He talked for a large portion of the journey, jumping topics and growing more animated the longer he went on. The further they traveled from Luanzang Hill, the brighter his eyes became.

            He reminisced about their days in the Cloud Recesses, lamented the loss of Emperor’s Smile, inquired about the state of the waterborne abyss, and joked about the conditions of his own living situation. He talked about Wen Qing, Wen Ning, Wen Popo, and Si-shu. With Wen Yuan, he shared some of the more amusing or notable events that had occurred within the last few months. Chief among them was the discovery that wine could be made on the mountain.

            Knowing nothing about the sack Lan Wangji had brought, he moved onto the topic of their failing crops and Wen Qing’s increased impatience with him—which he couldn’t help but find funny. People always feared the Yiling Laozu and his ghost flute, and yet she had no problem threatening him, sticking him with needles, and chewing him out for buying the wrong kinds of seeds.

            At first, Lan Wangji merely listened. After a while, his gaze caught on the enthusiasm in Wei Wuxian’s eyes, the easiness of his smile. Eventually, he even began to reply in one-to-two-word answers, which gradually lengthened to fuller sentences.

            Wen Yuan, while the other two talked, seemed utterly transfixed by Hanguang-Jun. To the toddler, who had spent the better part of a year on Luanzang Hill and before that had been in a prison camp, Hanguang-Jun was immeasurably cool. He watched him closely and even began to mimic his composed posture. Walking between the two adults, he straightened up, put one arm behind his back, and rested the other near his waist, imitating the way Lan Wangji carried Bichen.

            Wei Wuxian was the first to notice. As soon as he happened to glance down, he burst into a fit of laughter. His teasing brought a bright blush to the toddler’s cheeks and a vehement denial. After a while, Wen Yuan was so embarrassed that he even started to cry, and then Wei Wuxian felt so guilty that he swept the toddler up and let him sit on his shoulders.

            The travelers who passed them on the road never could have guessed that the amiable pair could possibly be the rumored enemies Yiling Laozu and Hanguang-Jun. 

            By the time they reached the narrow path that meandered off the main road, the two were walking in step with one another.

            Wen Yuan wondered in a creamy voice, “Are we there?”

            Wei Wuxian set him down and held his hand. “Almost! Should be just up ahead.”

            Wen Yuan, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege, where are we going?”

            Wei Wuxian grinned, “I guess I might as well say, hm? Back in Yunmeng, I heard about this valley. It’s called Longevity Garden, and it’s filled to the brim with only one type of flower! There are even rumors that a spirit lives here, but no one’s ever actually seen it, so it’s probably just a rumor. Let me see if I can remember the story…centuries ago, there was a woman who—”

            As he spoke, he reached the uphill crest to the sprawling valley. As soon as he saw what lay within, he stopped.

            Lan Wangji looked up at him. “What is it?”

            Wei Wuxian’s expression had faltered. He dropped the toddler’s hand. The light that had begun to shine in his eyes was extinguished at once.

            “Wei Ying?” Lan Wangji followed his gaze.            

            The valley rang with silence.

            Before them was not a sea of flowers or even a few beds of blooms but a blackened field of ash. It was clear a battle had taken place there. Many trees at the edges were severed and dead, and the tattered remains of banners were scattered across the valley—flags with the sun and flames sigil and a few with the head of a beast. Any life that had once thrived there had been burned beyond regrowth.

            A flash of rage descended over Wei Wuxian’s expression. Resentment cut through his chest like a knife, and a whirlwind of heat rushed through his body.

            It was rare for him to want to reminisce about Lotus Pier; on most days, unless he was drinking, he preferred to think of other things. But today, he had hoped to find some solace in fulfilling that simple, forgotten promise.

            Seeing the garden—and everything it was meant to represent—reduced to nothing more than a casualty of the war made his vision shake.

            Lan Wangji saw the change at once. “Wei Ying.”

            Blood pounded in Wei Wuxian’s ears. His jaw was tight, and his hands curled into fists. He wanted to hit something, but what could he hit? He wanted to shout and yell and curse, but at who? It all churned in his chest, helpless rage fueling bitter hatred. 

            He reached for Chenqing at his waist, finding some level of comfort in gripping the ghost flute.

            Lan Wangji tracked the motion and urged, “Wei Ying—calm down.”

            Overhead, a cloud moved in front of the sun as Wei Wuxian stared at the scorched earth. A sense of loss and devastation welled up inside him, darkening his vision. Even darker thoughts consumed him until resentment seemed to curl off his robes in waves.

            Lan Wangji stepped in front of him. “Do not look anymore.”

            Beside Wei Wuxian, Wen Yuan was gazing quietly into the garden when something caught his eye. He gasped and tugged gently on Wei Wuxian’s robes. In a small voice, he murmured, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege! Look!”

            After the Sunshot Campaign, Wei Wuxian’s anger had grown to the point that very few people could bring him back from the brink—so few, in fact, that it seemed limited to just one: Jiang Yanli.

            But hearing the soft, innocent voice of the toddler made the rage in Wei Wuxian’s chest lesson fractionally.

            Wen Yuan reached for Wei Wuxian’s hand, clasping his pinky. He called a little louder, “Xian-gege, Xian-gege, look, look!”

            Lan Wangji watched Wei Wuxian struggle with a complicated expression.

            It took Wei Wuxian a moment to be able to look down at the toddler. “…What is it?”

            Wen Yuan pointed into the burned garden with shining eyes. “Butter—butterfly!”

            Wei Wuxian shakily followed his finger. At first glance, it did indeed look like a butterfly. Its wings were wide, but they arched back instead of up. They were a yellow so pale, they seemed white, nearly glowing amidst the dark valley around it.

            Not a butterfly but a moth. It flitted by the entrance close to them, then circled back over the scorched earth. Only after it landed on a strip of green deep within did Wei Wuxian realize that it wasn’t all destroyed.

            Though dwarfed by the onslaught of destruction, there were fresh signs of new life. Beyond the scorched garden, tucked between two peaks and a sea of trees, was a field of grass.

            The heat slowly ebbed away until Wei Wuxian only felt tired. His hand fell away from Chenqing. He reached for the toddler instead and lifted him up.

            Wen Yuan hugged his neck with one arm and kept pointing with the other, tracking the moth.

            Wei Wuxian closed his eyes and exhaled. “I had thought…” He shook his head bitterly, but the rage was already gone, leaving something heavier in its wake. “Never mind. Let’s go—”

            He was on the verge of saying Let’s go back when Wen Yuan looked at him with wide, pleading eyes.

            “Butter—butterfly!”

            Wei Wuxian gave a ghost of a smile. “…Let’s go in, then.”

            Lan Wangji, “Wei Ying—”

            Wei Wuxian, “It’s fine, Lan Zhan. Let’s just go.”

            Together, the three walked across the burned garden. The blackened dirt clung to the hems of Wei Wuxian’s dark robes, unseen. A swirl of ashes was kicked up around them, until it felt like the whole world was black.

            When they were halfway through, the clouds moved past the sun, and the light pierced the darkness.

            Beyond the charred field, a few browning stems withered under the sun. Whatever flowers had remained there had long since dried up. Only one still retained its bloom, stubbornly clinging to life. The pale moth drifted past it and into the trees. Wen Yuan wanted to go after it, but at the sight of this singular blossom, Wei Wuxian froze. He set Wen Yuan down. With the moth nowhere in sight, the toddler instead gravitated to the flower. He crouched by it, admiring it with a tenderness beyond his age. 

            Wei Wuxian realized he had lost a fraction of control in front of Lan Wangji and wanted to make up for that. He didn’t want the other to lecture him anymore on the so-called cost of the ghost path, so he crouched next to Wen Yuan.

            He reached for the lone flower. Brushing his fingers against the underside of its delicate petals, he murmured, “It’s pretty, right?”

            Wen Yuan nodded hurriedly. “Very pretty!”