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Chapter Text

"Wangji-xiong!"

"What?"

"Your forehead ribbon is crooked."

"Ridiculous"

"It's true this time! It really is crooked. If you don't believe me, Let me straighten it for you."

Lan Wangji felt a tug on his forehead ribbon as it loosened from his head. Fingers tightened on the bow in his hand as he slowly turned to face Wei Wuxian. The moment both locked eyes on each other, a bright light encased the archery field and those nearby.

Consciousness slowly returned to Lan Wangji and he became aware of his surroundings. Around him, the others are slowly coming to and regaining their footing. They found themselves in a large hall decorated with ornate wood carvings along the walls and paintings in a style that could not be recognized by any of the cultivators. Several seats were spread out in front of a white cloth that hung on a rod that was suspended from the ceiling.

Lan Wangji joined his brother and uncle where they stood at the center of the room. "Xiongzhang."

Lan Xichen, "Wangji. Are you well? Any injuries?"

"Mn." replied Lan Wangji. His eyes are still scanning the room for any possible threats.

After ensuring there were no injuries, Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang joined the Lans. Followed by the Jins.

Jin Zixuan stood to his mother's side as she scanned the room. Confused as to why she was here as well since she was at Jinlin Tai while her husband and son attended the discussion conference, she wondered if her friend and future daughter in law will be there as well. Their engagement might be broken at the moment but she refuses to give up the idea of her A-Xuan marrying A-Li.

Across from the Lans, Yu Ziyuan and Jiang Yanli were confused as they were last at Lotus Pier only to wake up here. Jiang Cheng helped his sister to her feet while Jiang Fengmian helped Yu Ziyuan to hers.

Nie Mingjue, "Any idea where we are?"

Lan Xichen, "I'm not sure. We were on the archery field when Wei-gongzi -"

Sparks began to emit from Yu Ziyuan's ring as the words left Lan Xichen's mouth. "What has that brat done now? All he ever does is bring shame to his sect!" she shouted.

Jiang Fengmian, "San Niang..."

Lan Wangji's hands were fisted at his side as he glared at the ground. Wei Wuxian had pulled his forehead ribbon. He must know what the ribbon means. What it stood for. He had copied the rules so many times how could not know what it meant!

Jiang Yanli, "Where is A-Xian?"

The question brought Lan Wangji up short from his internal tirade. How did they not notice the lack of the troublemaker's voice? Looking up from his vigil of the ground, he sees Jiang Wanyin is equally taken aback. It was quiet... too quiet.

"He's here."

From the front of the room, Wen Ning held an unconscious Wei Wuxian up in a sitting position on the floor while Wen Qing checked his vitals. Seeing this, they all moved towards the trio with concern. Lan Wangji's heart gave an uncomfortable tug as he saw Wei Wuxian's pale complexion.

Jiang Cheng, "What's wrong with him? Why isn't he waking up?"

Wen Qing, "It seems whatever brought us here affected him more severely than the rest. His core is stable though his spiritual energy is low. It's as though an array had drawn too much spiritual energy from his core faster than it could replenish it at the time of activation."

"Will he be ok? It hasn't caused any lasting damage has it?" Jiang Yanli asked worriedly. A-Xian looked awfully pale.

Wen Qing, "He just needs a transfusion of spiritual energy to help kick start his core."

Jiang Cheng moved to take his shixiong from Wen Ning while giving him some of his spiritual energy. He didn't like how pale or how still his shixiong was. Wei Wuxian was not meant to be so still.

Lan Xichen, "It looks like an array is the cause of this then? There were no arrays on the archery field and Wei-gongzi would not have had the time to draw or even activate an array before we were brought here."

Turning to the Sect Leaders, Lan Xichen asked if they had seen anything from where they sat. Each in turn gave a negative reply.

Nie Mingjue snarled out, "Aside from the blatant display of disrespect in the seating arrangement and the Wen brat, nothing stands out."

"There was an array on one of the pillars on the way in." came a weak reply. They all turned to see Wei Wuxian regaining consciousness. "I saw it while I got lost looking for the archery field. It was a containment array so I figured it may have been to keep the targets manageable. I didn't have time to really look at it as the competition was starting."

Now back on his feet, Wei Wuxian looked less pale. He was still unsteady on his feet so Jiang Wanyin helped to steady him. Lan Wangji focused his gaze on Wei Wuxian's face, noting that color was returning to it and let out the breath he didn't know he was holding. The forehead ribbon incident is now completely forgotten.

Wei Wuxian gave a small smile towards Lan Wangji when he caught his eye to reassure the Lan that he was fine. ' Ah, Lan Zhan. I've figured you out. Your eyes...they give you away.'

A sudden flash of light brought everyone's attention back to the front of the room. Bickering can be heard as the light faded.

"He specifically told you not to touch the array!"

"I didn't! It activated on it's own!"

"Guys..."

"An array can't just activate itself, Young Mistress Jin!"

"Well it did! And stop calling me that!"

"Why are you even here?"

"Because I was invited!"

The sects looked at each other in confusion. In front of them were disciples in various Senior robes of differing sect colors but none were familiar to their sects. With them, though facing away from the room, were five adults also in robes of several Great Sects displaying their high rank. One wore the robes of the Qinghe Nie Sect Leader, one in the robes of the Yunmeng Jiang Sect Leader, one dressed in the Lan teacher robes, one in Lan robes reserved only for the spouses of the main family, and one in the robes of the Chief Cultivator.

"BOYS!-" the Lan spouse began to shout; causing Lan Qiren's eyebrow to twitch slightly.

Jiang Fengmian clears his throat, "Excuse us, it seems we may be in the same situation. Perhaps we can figure this out together?"

At his words, the young newcomers turn startled gazes behind their elders, disagreements forgotten. The adults turn back and freeze as their eyes land on the others in the room.

Chapter Text

"Oh Shit"

Lan Sizhui, "Jingyi!"

Lan Jingyi, "Sorry! Sizhui, look! I'd forgotten how Lan-xiansheng looked with a beard!"

Jin Ling went pale as he looked at a younger version of his uncle, "Jiujiu is going to kill me."

Lan Sizhui smirked. Wei-qianbei was the reason Lan-xiansheng had grudgingly stopped growing a beard. What was the point of trying to grow one when it "mysteriously" got shaved off the next morning?

Lan Qiren closed his eyes and stroked his beard to regain his composure. The image of him beardless struck a nerve as he remembered the antics of a certain female menace. He's certain that he knows who is to blame for his future state.

Hushed silence takes over the room. Unmoving up front, the travelers took in the faces of those who have been gone for three decades. Parents, siblings, and friends gone long before their time.

"Well that explains the travel aspect of the array. Time travel." whispered Ouyang Zizhen; grunting as JIn Ling's elbow jammed into his ribs.

"It's a fierce corpse!"

"Quick, kill it before it attacks!"

As swords were drawn from their sheaths, the younger cultivators pushed said fierce corpse behind them as they formed a shield around him.

A Lan senior disciple stepped forward with a bow, "We apologize for the unexpected fright. Wen-laoshi is our mentor and healer. A sentient fierce corpse, yes, but he is in full control of his actions. He poses no threat to anyone so long as those he cares for are not threatened. We can assure you that no harm will come to anyone."

'He's like a mini Lan Zhan! ' Wei Wuxian thought to himself.

The Lans study the man's mannerisms. He carried himself like a model Lan. Well-mannered and calm. His words are precise and to the point like Lan Wangji. There was a hint of steel in those words. A warning that he will not hesitate to defend if attacked.

When he rose from his bow, the man flashed a reassuring smile similar to the ones that often graced Lan Xichen's lips. Yet, there was a hint of familiar mischievousness in his eyes that reminded Lan Zhan of the boy who was driving him to distraction.

His forehead ribbon marked him as a member of the main family and the hairpiece his status as heir. If they were truly time travelers, was he Lan Wangji's son or Lan Xichen's?

"A-Ning? Why are you... what happened to you?!?!" Wen Qing gasps as her eyes snapped worriedly between her brother beside her and the fierce corpse. Wen Qionglin could only bow his head as he took in his sister's presence. It was so good to see her again, alive and healthy. Wen Ning pulled their sister into his arms to keep her from storming up front.

Jiang Yanli, "A-Cheng?"

Jiang Wanyin takes a stuttering breath in as his eyes land on his parents and sister. Drinking in the sight of them alive before him.

"A-Die. A-Niang. A-Jie", he manages out. Jiang Fengmian and Yu Ziyuan stared with wide eyes as they took in their son's appearance. Older and more confident. He had an aura of authority that one only gained from hardships and loss.  As he stumbled their way and pulled his sister into a tight hug, the years of grief crashed over him and overflowed. "A-Jie..."

Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng looked on in awe at the older Jiang Cheng. The growing sense of dread at his older self's reaction to his parents' and sister's presence caused Jiang Cheng to shift closer to Jiang Yanli.

Feeling like he was intruding, Wei Ying turned his attention to the remaining cultivators standing in front. Eyes landing on the older Lan Wangji.

'Lan Zhan sure ages well. He's gotten more handsome .' Blushing slightly, he focused his attention on the stranger in the Lan robes. The man looked like he was debating being sick in front of everyone or downright passing out.

"DA-GE!"

Nie Mingjue barely had a second to brace himself before his arms were full of a crying Nie Huaisang. Dressed in the robes of the Nie Sect Leader, his brother looked older and more mature. Stronger if the stranglehold he had around Nie Mingjue's waist was any indication.

Nie Huaisang, "Da-ge... You're here. You're here. You're really here... I've missed you so much!"

From his words, Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang realized what that meant. Nie Mingjue held his brother tighter and dragged the younger into the embrace as he had also started crying. Belatedly, Nie Mingjue noticed Huaisang still was not carrying a saber. He fought the ingrained habit of yelling at his brother for neglecting his saber... again. His brothers needed his comfort right now.

Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren could not take their eyes off the Lan Wangji in front of them. The man was dressed in the Chief Cultivator's robes and carried an aura of authority and no nonsense that a strong cultivator carries. Lan Xichen noted that his younger brother also looked... content and sure of himself as he walked forward to greet them.

Lan Wangji, "Shufu. Xiongzhang." there he hesitates before addressing his younger self, "Lan Wangji."

Lan Xichen, "Wangji." ' You seem happier.'

Amusement flashes in Lan Wangji's eyes as he meets Lan Xichen's eyes, "Mn." ' I am.'

Lan Qiren, "Wangji, will you introduce the senior disciple with the clan forehead ribbon?"

Lan Wangji, "Yes, Shufu."

At his vantage point in the front of the room, Wei Wuxian looked on as his shidi hugged Shijie. No, he no longer had the right to call her Shijie. He caused her son so much pain already. He felt Jin Ling shift to his side and turned his head to look at his nephew. Jin Ling's eyes were flickering between Jiang Yanli and Jin Zixuan taking in as much of them as possible. Wei Wuxian laid a hand on his shoulder and gave a gentle squeeze.

Jin Zixuan noticed the Jin disciple standing next to the unknown Lan. Why did the Lan hold a resemblance to his father but slightly like Wei Wuxian as well? The Jin looked almost identical to Jin Zixuan himself though he carried himself with an air of insecurity.

Jiang Yanli, "A-Cheng, was A-Xian not with you?"

The travelers turned their attention to the unknown Lan. Jiang Wanyin pulled away from his sister to return to his shixiong's side as Lan Wangji and Nie Huaisang did the same. All eyes on the room tracked their movement with confusion as no one was answering Jiang-guniang's question.

Lan Wangji grabbed Wei Wuxian's hand in a firm grip. 'I'm here.'  Wei Wuxian rewarded him with a fond smile. 'I know'

The time travelers gave collective bows to the room as Wen Qionglin stepped forward to greet them to the dismay of several.

Wen Qionglin, "This one is Wen Ning, Wen Qionglin. Titled The Ghost General. Formerly of Qishan Wen. Now Master Healer and Teacher of the Healing Arts of Gusu Lan."

The silence that followed his greeting was deafening. Before them was a fierce corpse that held his consciousness and free will. A fierce corpse who was also skilled at the Healing Arts.

Wen Qing and Wen Ning wondered what had happened to Wen Qionglin. Why was he now part of Gusu Lan?  How did he become a fierce corpse and a sentient one at that? Was that how he received the title of The Ghost General? He looked no older than Wen Ning was now so it had to have happened not too long from now.

Nie Huaisang stepped forward. "This one is Nie Huaisang. Sect Leader of Qinghe Nie. Connoisseur of all things Art and Information." That earned him eye rolls from Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian and a Lan equivalent of one from Lan Wangji. Nie Mingjue let out a huff of amusement at the offended sound the older Nie Huaisang made at their reaction.

Jiang Wanyin, "This one is Jiang Cheng. Jiang Wanyin. Titled Sandu Shengshou. Sect Leader of Yunmeng Jiang."

"Sandu Shengshou?" Asked Jiang Fengmian while Yu Ziyuan and Jiang Cheng looked pleased at the title given. Jiang Yanli and Wei Ying had proud smiles on their faces.

Jiang Wanyin, "It was the title I was given during the...* clears throat* the war." Murmurs and gasps of "War?" ran through the sects.

Lan Wangji glanced at his husband before stepping forward and presenting his bow. "This one is Lan Zhan. Lan Wangji. Titled Hanguang-Jun and Chief Cultivator.  I am the current Acting Sect Leader of Gusu Lan."

Lan Xichen took a deep breath. For his brother to be the Acting Sect Leader, it meant that something happened to both him and Uncle. Wangji did not seem to be grieving when he greeted them so perhaps not. He would most likely be in seclusion if that wasn't the case. Lan Qiren closed his eyes to contemplate what he just heard. Did history repeat itself?

All eyes turned to the Lan standing in front as he stepped forward and bowed.

Wei Wuxian, " This one is Wei Ying, Wei Wuxian- "

Chapter Text

The room waited for the man to continue his introduction; Jiangs and Lans alike didn't know how to respond. This man was definitely not Wei Wuxian. How dare he claim to be someone who is standing right there!

"Wow... and I'm the dramatic one?" Ouyang Zizhen deadpanned. His friends nodded in agreement. Jiang Wanyin pinched the bridge of his nose and Nie Huaisang looked away hiding his smile with his fan.

First to recover Jiang Cheng shouted, "Wei Wuxian? Bull shit! Who the hell are you? There's no way you're Wei Wuxian! You don't even look like him!" Pointing to Wei Ying at his side.

"THAT'S WEI-QIANBEI?!?!?!" Shouted three of the senior disciples.

Lan Jingy, "He looks nothing like how our books portray him!"

Jin Ling nodded his head in agreement as he pondered, "I wonder what else the books were wrong about?"

Ouyang Zizhen sighed dreamily, "He's so handsome!"

A complicated look crossed Wei Wuxian's face before he laughed and exclaimed, "Ah Chengcheng... look what a cute little angry grape you were!"

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING CHENGCHENG!?!?" shouted Jiang Cheng and Jiang Wanyin causing Wei Wuxian to laugh harder. Jiang Yanli giggled into her sleeve. Her brothers' antics will never change it seems.

Jiang Wanyin, "In all seriousness, that *pointing to Wei Wuxian* idiot is Wei Wuxian. It's... a long story. Finish your introduction already so we can find a way out of here."

Wei Wuxian, "Aiya, A-Cheng's so mean to his Shixiong. Ok ok! I'm finishing. This one is Wei Ying. Wei Wuxian. Titled The Yiling Laozu. Former Head Disciple of Yunmeng Jiang. Now Arrays and Talismans Grandmaster of Gusu Lan."

Lan Zhan's gaze remained on the man who supposedly was Wei Ying. He can see the tells in the way the man... Wei Ying... carried himself. Lan Zhan chanced a look over to Wei Ying. Wei Ying looked to be lost in thought with a complicated look on his face. What had happened in the future for him to be in a different body?

Jiang Cheng faced Wei Wuxian first then decided to confront Wei Ying instead, "You married into Gusu Lan?"

Wei Ying, "Why are you yelling at me? I haven't done anything!"

To Jiang Wanyin, Jiang Cheng demanded, "You let him marry into Gusu Lan? He hated it there!"

Jiang Wanyin scoffed in response, "Like we can stop them."

Lan Qiren, "Who?"

Confused, Wei Wuxian asked, "Pardon?"

Lan Qiren, "Who did you marry? You're wearing Lan Spousal robes so I ask you... who did you marry?"

Lan Xichen glanced at his brother as Lan Zhan stiffened next to him. Lan Xichen gave his brother an encouraging smile when he looked up from the floor. 'Wei-gongzi is too attached to Wangji. Marrying me is out of the question.'

The mischievous smile that spread on his face as Wei Wuxian turned to his husband gave the Jiangs a cause for alarm. They knew that smile meant trouble was brewing. Zidian sparked as Yu Ziyuan held her tongue. She can't risk insulting this older Wei Wuxian if he's now part of Gusu Lan.

Catching on to his intentions, the Senior boys tried to school their features as they waited for the shoe to drop. Lan-xiansheng's temperament back then was well known by all of them. Especially if it involved Wei-qianbei. There were several rules forbidding contact with Wei-qianbei as proof of that fact.

Lan Wangji turned to the disciples and instructed, "Introduce yourselves. Sizhui, you begin."

The Lan disciple stepped forward to introduce himself. The Lans were curious as to who this disciple was. He wore a forehead ribbon that only the main family wore. When he had spoken earlier, the disciple was well mannered and seemed to embody all the values of Gusu Lan.

Lan Sizhui, "This one is Lan Yuan. Lan Sizhui. Sect Heir and First Disciple of Gusu Lan. Youngest Talisman and Guqin Master."

He dares a glance at his parents and continues at Wei-qianbei's excited nod. "Son of Lan Wangji, Hanguang-Jun, of Gusu Lan and… Wei Wuxian, The Yiling Laozu, of Yunmeng Jiang."

"WHAT?!?!?!?"

*Thud*

Lan Xichen, "SHUFU!"

Wei Wuxian openly gaped at the man... boy... his son? Their son? Their son?

'Mine and Lan Zhan's son. Lan Spousal robes. Married into Gusu Lan. Lan Zhan... married. Oh my God...'

'Son? Wei Ying and I... a son?' ran through Lan Zhan's mind . 'He's wearing Gusu Lan Spousal robes. We're... we're married?'

Something released inside their hearts like a dam finally breaking as their eyes met.

'Oh'

'Oh'

Lan Jingyi, "I think you broke them, Sizhui." Eyeing Wei Ying and Lan Zhan with rapt attention.

Lan Sizhui, "Mn." Internally laughing at his future parents' dilemma.

Jiang Cheng, "WEI WUXIAN! WHO LET YOU RAISE A KID?"

Wei Wuxian flinched, "Technically, Lan Zhan raised him. I was..." He let the thought drop as Lan Wangji took a subtle breath in.

Lan Xichen helped Shufu to his feet as he regained his senses. Looking up to see his brother caught up in his thoughts, Lan Xichen shared a small laugh as he caught Jiang Yanli's laughing eyes. Making a note to tease his brother about it later.

Distractedly everyone turned their attention back to the front as the disciple dressed in red Senior robes of Baling Ouyang stepped forward with a bow. "This one is Ouyang Zizhen. Sect Heir to Baling Ouyang. Youngest Head Healer and First Disciple of Master Healer Wen Qionglin."

Ouyang-zongzhu openly gaped at this man who was to be his unborn son. His wife was only a few months pregnant at the moment and had her heart set on Zizhen as the courtesy name if the baby was to be a boy. He turned to Yao-zongzhu and the cultivators around him excitedly as they congratulated him, "That's my son... I'm going to have a son!"

The Lan that was in a shouting match earlier with the Jin disciple stepped forward next with a bow, "This one is Lan Jingyi. Second Disciple of Gusu Lan. Head of Discipline and Youngest Arrays Master."

Lan Qiren, "Lan Jingyi. You are my cousin, Lan HuiFan's son I take it." His tone sounded like everything made sense how this unruly man could be a Lan.

Lan Jingyi smiles sheepishly as he straightens from his bow, "Yes, Lan-xiansheng." At Lan Qiren's resigned sigh and Lan Xichen's amused smile, Lan Jingyi steps to the side.

Snapping out of his internal panic session, Wei Ying elbows his shidi to whisper with a laugh, "I like him! He's so unLan-like that he reminds me of me!" Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes and turned his attention back to the front.

The Jin disciple steps forward to introduce himself as he glances at Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian, receiving a nod of encouragement from each man.

Jin Ling, "This one is Jin Ling. Jin Rulan. Sect Leader of Lanling Jin. Sect Heir to Yunmeng Jiang. Youngest Archery Master." He takes in a deep breath to calm his nerves. "Son of Jin Zixuan of Lanling Jin and Jiang Yanli of Yunmeng Jiang."

Jin Guangshan appraised his grandson from where he stood. The man was handsome and carried himself with the pride of a Jin. The fact that he was dead did not sit well with Jin Guangshan. 'Perhaps he could tell me how I died so I can prevent it from happening.'

Liu Rushi and Yu Ziyuan became ecstatic at the news that they had a grandson. The years spent on trying to bring their children together paid off in the most spectacular way. Jiang Fengmian nodded in approval with a gentle smile on his face. Very proud of the man his future grandson will become.

Having had his suspicions confirmed, Jin Zixuan took a deeper look at his future son. The man shared his features but his eyes held a gentleness. Though his pattern of speech reminded Jin Zixuan of Jiang Wanyin, there were tells of Jin in his body language.

Jin Zixuan is not an idiot. He sees his sword, Suihua, in the cultivator's hand. He knew what that meant. And from the way the man's eyes were flickering between him and Jiang-guniang with a look of longing and heartbreak, it meant she was gone as well. Something tugged at his heart at that knowledge.

It seems their engagement was reinstated after all. Was their marriage happy? He had vowed years ago that he will never be like his father. If he and Jiang Yanli got married and had a child together, their marriage had to be one stemming from love. He wouldn't allow himself to settle for anything less.

Jin Zixuan couldn't help but look towards Jiang Yanli when he heard her gasp. Her eyes filled with tears but she looked... amazed and proud?  Amazed that this was their son. Proud of his accomplishments. Jin Zixuan caught her eye as she turned to look in his direction.

'Ah' . His heart stuttered at the hopeful look directed at him. Caught up in the wonder, he returned her smile wholeheartedly with a nod to their son to convey his pride in their son as well. The smile he received in return was brighter than anything he had seen. 'Oh. Oh, that's what Wei Wuxian meant. No one is good enough for her. But I can try to be.'

Chapter Text

Glaring at their future selves, Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying shouted, "YOU LET THE PEACOCK TOUCH OUR SISTER?!?!?!"

Jiang Wanyin shot an unimpressed look towards the younger duo, "A-Jie can handle herself."

"Remember the dressing down she gave Jin Whatshisname during the Phoenix hunt?" Wei Wuxian began cracking up as the memory popped into his head.

"Jin Zixun." Lan Wangji supplied. There was a hint of disapproval in his tone that caused Wei Wuxian to break out in another round of laughter.

Jin Zixuan took this opportunity to observe his future wife. She had a lovely smile on her face as she listened to her brothers' discussion. Her features softened as she laughed along with them. ‘Beautiful.’

Jiang Cheng moved to block Jiang Yanli from Jin Zixuan's view. That damned Peacock had the gall to touch his sister. Wei Ying slowly turned to glare at the Jin who had been the cause of his Shijie's tears. They were NOT going to let that go without a fight. Nobody hurts their Yanli and comes out unscathed.

"PPPPEEEAAAACCCOOOOCCCKKK!!!!" They advanced on Jin Zixuan with clenched fists.

"Boys." Jiang Yanli called.

"But Shijie!!"

"A-Jie!!!"

Jiang Yanli gave them a fond smile and slightly tilted her head as if asking a silent question.

The Senior quartet openly gaped as Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying visibly deflated and turned back around right before their eyes.

Jin Ling, expecting a fight, had prepared to step in front of his father. Now he stood with his mouth hanging open and eyes wide in wonder at the sight of his uncles looking chastised by a mere smile from his mother.

Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin chuckled in commiseration. They knew that smile. They dreaded that smile. Been at the wrong end of that smile one too many times. Thank you very much.

"Whoa!" Lan Jingyi gasped out. "It's true! She really is the only person who could tame Sandu Shengshou AND The Yiling Laozu with just a smile and mere words."

"A Goddess among men who deemed us mortals worthy enough to descend from the Heavens to grace us with her presence. Senior Wei swears her soup can heal any injury!" gushed Ouyang Zizhen.

Wei Wuxian, Wei Ying, Jiang Wanyin, and Jiang Cheng gave sharp nods in agreement. Jiang Yanli truly deserved the best life could provide and the sooner people realize that the better.

Lan Sizhui, often finding himself stuck in the middle of Lan Jingyi and Jin Ling's bickering, stepped forward to Jiang Yanli, "Jiang-guniang, could you please teach me how you do that?"

"You're A-Xian's son. That makes you my nephew so you can call me Yanli-gumu." Jiang Yanli replied. Speechless, Lan Sizhui dumbly nodded his head. Jiang Yanli hid her smile behind her sleeve and giggled softly.

Jiang Wanyin crossed his arms and huffed in amusement as Wei Wuxian laughed at their love-struck awed looks.

"Listen mini-us, it took two punches from me before the Peacock got his act together in my timeline. It looks like the work is already done for you. Jin Zixuan is a good and loyal man. Nothing like his father or cousin. He even built Jiang Yanli a lotus pond with his own hands. Just for Jiang Yanli. Give him a chance." reassured Wei Wuxian making sure to maintain eye contact with his younger self.

Jin Guangshan smarted at the insult to his character. "It seems Yunmeng Jiang had become lax in their discipline to allow such disrespect for a fellow Sect Leader. Or perhaps it is Gusu Lan who have fallen so low?" He sneered.

Every Jiang and Lan bristled in displeasure. Other cultivators nervously eyed the Sects in front. Unsure if they should step in to diffuse the situation.

Jiang Fengmian,  "What are you implying, Jin-zongzhu?"

Jin Guangshan, "Just that -"

"Respect is something to be earned, Jin- zongzhu ." Jiang Wanyin cut off Jin Guangshan's reply.

Wei Wuxian, "Plainly speaking Jin-zongzhu, you are the last person in this hall deserving of any respect. Least of all from me."

Jin Guangshan's face began to turn more purple as anger rose at their words. "How dare the son of a servant speak to me in such a way! Know your place and apologize to those superior to you."

Jin Ling, "Wei Wuxian's the one that's superior to you. You do not deserve the respect your title affords you. Nainai is more deserving of that privilege for all the disrespect and degradation you put her through with your disgusting habits. You left me with a vipers' pit masquerading as a sect to run. Lanling Jin's reputation is now better than it ever was, no thanks to you and Jin Guangyao."

Jiang Wanyin, "Jin Ling."

"Jin Ling." Wei Wuxian walked over to put a hand on his shoulder, "It's ok to be angry and you are justified in your anger but he is still your grandfather. Choose your words and actions carefully. Learn from his mistakes and do better, yes?"

Taking a steadying breath, Jin Ling turned back to Jin Guangshan. "Wei Wuxian has had a bad hand dealt to him all his life and I have become quite overprotective of people disparaging him over the years. Please accept my apologies, Yeye."

Jin Guangshan, having never been talked to in such a manner since becoming Sect Leader, became more indignant. "You would speak to your grandfather in such a manner for that *indicating to Wei Wuxian*? I see your upbringing was lacking the fundamentals that teaches filial piety. I will have to make sure any future grandchildren of mine will be properly educated so they do not turn out like you."

Liu Rushi, "Jin Guangshan!"

Before anyone could intervene, Wei Wuxian's eyes flashed red. His body dashed forward to wrap a hand around Jin Guangshan's throat. "Lacking fundamentals? You want to speak of fundamentals? I have led armies in a war that YOU were too much a coward to join. I have killed on those battlefields to protect my loved ones and retake my home while you pulled back your disciples from the fighting. I watched your son join a war and fought in YOUR place while you dallied your time away with prostitutes and servant girls in Jinlintai. I kept my mouth shut when you claimed credit for ending the war in the name of Lanling Jin like it was your due and not your bastard who ended Wen Rouhan's life."

"The Yiling Laozu...", whispered the boys. Heart thundering in anticipation. History books had described him as a demon without restraint or morals. His name drove fear into the hearts of everyone. The mere sight of his ghost flute was enough to scare away powerful resentful creatures. And now he's come out to play.

"Your greed destroyed the hard won peace that was supposed to come with the end of the war. You tortured, raped, and murdered innocent men, women, and children under the guise of "War criminals". And when I stood up against you, you had me destroyed. Because of you, I left my sect. Because of you, I had to leave my siblings.

Because of you, my name was spat upon and cursed as evil. My newfound family were slaughtered like sheep by the so-called Righteous cultivators in this very room. Unarmed civilians. Disabled and Elderly. Non-combatants who had no blood on their hands. A CHILD! I rescued them from YOUR labor camps. Labeled, by you, as war criminals because of their surname and the Cultivation World allowed it. Believing in your lies. Because of you, I lost EVERYTHING. So tell me, Jin Guangshan, who is lacking fundamentals here? Give me one good reason why I shouldn't gut you where you stand.”

"Wei Ying. Come back love. There is no threat here. Come back to me." Lan Wangji's words filtered through the haze as red eyes turned back to Grey.

Horror and shame swept the room at words Wei Wuxian bit out. Color drained from Jin Guangshan's face as he was dropped on the ground in an inelegant heap of golden robes. Fear crawled up his body as dark spots danced in the corners of his vision.

Finally feeling the arms wrapped around himself from behind. "Lan Zhan. Ah, I'm sorry. I lost myself."

"I'm here. You're safe. No need for sorry between us, remember?" Lan Wangji placed a kiss on Wei Wuxian's temple, drawing a smile from the younger man.

Jiang Cheng, "WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?!?!?!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Leave it."

Enraged, Jiang Cheng rounded on his older self. "What do you mean 'Leave it'? He's dripping with resentment. What the fuck have you gotten yourself into, Wei Wuxian?!?!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Jiang Wanyin, calm yourself. He knows what he's doing. And has been doing it for decades now. He's only a danger to himself these days."

"He's always a danger to himself. That's nothing new" Jiang Cheng couldn't help quipping back.

Yu Ziyuan eyed Wei Wuxian. Contemplating if the boy was possessed. Zidian sparked in her hand as she debated the best course of action.

Noticing the reaction, Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian behind him as Wen Qionglin flanked his left and Jiang Wanyin his right.

Lan Sizhui narrowed his eyes on the sparking ring. "Yu-furen. If you are contemplating on using Zidian on Wei-qianbei, I can assure you it will not work. Jiang-zongzhu... That is Jiang Wanyin has already...Wei-qianbei is not possessed."

Taking in the looks of horror around him, he focused his attention on the disciples. They have never seen him lose himself in so much anger and pain. Such a look will never cross their Wei-qianbei's face ever again if they had any say in it.

Wei Wuxian, "I'm sorry boys. I didn't mean to scare you-"

"Are you ok? Do you need A-Die or I to play Cleansing for you?"

"Are you hungry? I have some snacks here if you want!"

"Are you hurting anywhere? I have my emergency pack!"

" Do you need a hug? You said I give great hugs!"

Blinking at his four ducklings, Wei Wuxian's chest warmed at their concern and gathered the boys into a group hug. "Ah, I love you boys. Lan Zhan, our boys are amazing aren't they?"

"Mn." the corners of his lips twitch upwards.

Jin Zixuan joined his mother as they both bowed to Wei Wuxian.  "Wei-gongzi, On behalf of Lanling Jin-"

Wei Wuxian interrupted, "Please save your apologies. I just ask for you to not take anyone's words at face value. Believe but question the motive behind it. People wear many faces, even with family."

Clapping his hands together, Wei Wuxian diverted everyone's attention so they could figure out how they could go back to their own timelines. "Alright, let's split up and look for clues on how to get out of here!"

Chapter Text

'Shameless. Hanguang-Jun is shameless.' Lan Zhan internally chastised. Ignoring the longing that tugged at his heart as he watched Lan Wangji hold Wei Wuxian. ' But Wei Ying had suffered so much in this future. Why didn't I stop him from going down the crooked path? Jiang Wanyin had said he could control it but what about the damages to Wei Ying?'

His eyes scanned the hall to see everyone remained glued to where they stood. Jin Guangshan had been pulled into one of the seats by Jin Zixuan who was now on the side whispering with his mother.

Jiang Fengmian had a grip on Yu Ziyuan's arm while Jiang Cheng stood between them and Wei Ying. Jiang Yanli had her back to them as she spoke softly to a troubled looking Wei Ying.

Knowing eyes watched them behind a fan that was painted with the view of mountain tops peaking through the clouds. Attentively listening to the whispers and conversations that continued through the hall as one by one the cultivators recovered from their shock.

"What did he mean we let innocents be killed?

"The Wens are getting out of hand but what about the Jins?"

"Did you see how his eyes turned red?"

"I heard several smaller sects have been wiped out already."

"That's what I heard too!"

"Is no one going to ask them about the war?"

"We should find a way out of here quickly and prepare. Who knows what's happening outside right now?"

"What about Wei Wuxian?"

"Forget about him! What about the Jins?"

"What about them? They can't do anything if we refuse to listen to them."

"If what he said was true, the Jins are worse than the Wens!"

"That Jin Guangshan is truly shameless. His son needs to take over that sect to spare them more embarrassment."

"RIGHT!"

"Did he have to call us righteous in that tone of voice?"

"I no longer allow my female disciples to attend discussion conferences anymore because of that pig."

"I heard he tried to rape one if his men's wife!"

"Apparently even his bastard contributed more than he did!"

"He must be a powerful cultivator to be able to kill Wen Rouhan personally!"

"WEI WUXIAN! Are you expecting us to just ignore that you are cultivating resentful energy?" demanded Lan Qiren. The words the boy spoke that day in the Orchid Room echoing in his head:

'Spiritual energy is energy; resentful energy is energy as well. Spiritual energy is stored in the dantian. It can split mountains and fill oceans, available for human use. If so, then why can’t resentful energy also be used by humans?'

Lan Wangji, "Shufu, Wei Ying mastered Resentful Cultivation three decades ago. Wangji will help when he is needed. No harm will come"

Taken aback by his nephew's easy acceptance, Lan Qiren looked to Lan Xichen only to see him looking worriedly at Lan Wangji but not saying a word. If Lan Xichen won't say anything then he will!

"Lan Wangji! Demonic cultivation corrupts the mind and harms the heart! It is immoral and goes against nature itself! Against everything Gusu Lan stands for. Gusu Lan will never allow it nor him on its grounds!"

Noticing Lan Wangji's hardened gaze, Lan Xichen placed a hand on his uncle's arm to keep him from advancing forwards; "Shufu, perhaps we should let them explain. Wei-gongzi had mentioned something about the war. Perhaps something forced their hands. Wangji?"

Eyes narrowed and jaw set, Lan Wangji turned cold eyes upon his uncle, "Shufu, Gusu Lan Sect is not without fault. Not as righteous as you believe yourself to be."

Lan Qiren's face gained a red hue as anger seeped into his voice, "Are you so blind in your devotion to him that you would disregard the rules?"

Undeterred, Lan Wangji answered, "Rules are only excuses. Wangji devoted his life to the rules of Gusu Lan. Wangji failed Wei Ying because of those rules."

"Lan Zhan." whispered Wei Wuxian, trying to gain his husband's attention.

Unable to stop himself, Lan Zhan looked over to Wei Ying. 'I failed Wei Ying because of the rules? Was that why I wasn't by his side?'

"You disappoint me, Wangji. You were raised by the precepts of Gusu Lan so you wouldn't turn out like your father. It seems all was for naught." Lan Qiren spit out, chest uncomfortably tight.

Lan Zhan's eyes widened at his uncle's words. Panic runs through him at the thought of becoming like his father. Lan Xichen hurried to mediate. "Shufu, please! We do not know their situation nor what happened in the future."

Lan Wangji studied his uncle for a while longer before answering, "Lan-xiansheng, Gusu Lan precepts failed to protect me. Wangji has learned how far your respect and love for me extended three decades ago. If Wei Ying is unwelcomed, so is Wangji. Where Wei Ying goes, Wangji will follow."

Color drained from Lan Xichen's face as his stomach dropped at his brother's declaration. Gusu Lan had failed his brother in the future to the extent that he would readily leave if his husband was not welcomed?

"You-" began Lan Qiren only to be interrupted by the sounds of a whip unleashing.

"A-XIAN!" Jiang Yanli cried.

The smell of burning flesh drew everyone's attention towards the Jiangs.

Jiang Cheng, "A-NIANG, STOP!"

Yu Ziyuan, "If I don't make sure that brat never touches demonic cultivation now, he's going to bring disaster to the Sect! Jiang Fengmian, are you still trying to defend him even now? You see the demon he's going to become!"

Jiang Fengmian was restraining Yu Ziyuan's arms as Jiang Cheng stood before her shielding his siblings behind him. Wei Ying was turned away from them and hunched over Jiang Yanli as if protecting her from an attack. Jiang Yanli sank slowly to the ground from the added weight of his barely conscious body, refusing to let him hit the ground.

Bile rose in his throat as Lan Zhan went to Wei Ying's side. Gently he took Wei Ying from Jiang Yanli and propped him up chest to chest. Keeping a hand on Wei Ying's wrist, he began giving him spiritual energy to boost healing. Wei Ying has been hurt by someone who was supposed to be a mother figure to him. Punished for something he had not yet done. Had he been punished for less than that?

Jin Ling, Lan Sizhui, and Lan Jingyi rushed to flank Jiang Cheng as Ouyang Zizhen continued to Wei Ying's side. Wei Wuxian found himself once again behind his husband and Wen Qionglin.

Jiang Fengmian, "San Niang! A-Xian is still a child. There are other ways to teach him without resorting to threats and violence!"

White knuckled grip on his fan, The Head Shaker addressed the hall as a whole. "Wei-xiong is not the evil one. Demonic Cultivation was not his choice. It was the only path left available to him. You, Madam Yu, lost the right to judge him the first time your poisonous words were directed at him!"

With a pained sigh, Jiang Wanyin called Yu Ziyuan's Zidian to himself leaving behind a shocked Yu Ziyuan and a visibly relieved Jiang Fengmian.

Wen Qing rushed over to check the damage done, Wen Ning following close behind. A long bloody trail ran from his right shoulder down across his back. The whip had ripped through the layers of the black robes and blood stained the edges of the burned robe.

Taking the emergency pack offered by Ouyang Zizhen, she gently cleaned the blood from the wound. In doing so she found several more wounds like it underneath the robes in various stages of healing. A pained gasp escaped Ouyang Zizhen's lips. Anger ripped through Wen Qing like an uncontrollable fire. She lifted her head and met her brother's eyes who looked equally upset. Wei Ying slowly came to as the pain lessened from the energy transfer. If anyone noticed Lan Zhan holding onto him tighter, they didn't mention it.

"There are several wounds on his back in differing stages of healing. Some as old as a few years, some as new as a few days ago." Wen Qing recounted as she stood up. Furious eyes firmly on Yu Ziyuan, "All caused by the same weapon."

Lan Qiren blanched at the doctor's recounting of the boy's wounds. All anger at the demonic cultivation was replaced by white hot fury at the blatant mistreatment of a ward by his mother figure. "Yu-furen! What is the meaning of this? This is how Wei Wuxian is being raised in your sect? Jiang Fengmian, are you allowing such treatment in your home?"

Nie Huaisang stepped forward only to be stopped by Nie Mingjue. Nie Huaisang pleaded with his brother with tears in his eyes, "Da-ge, please... he's hurt!"

Nie Mingjue, "It seems Yu-furen believes it is fair to punish Wei Wuxian for something he has not yet done. If we are to allow that, every cultivator here should be whipped as well. Perhaps we should start with the person who wields a whip against her unarmed ward."

"Wei Wuxian is a disciple of Yunmeng Jiang. I have the authority to punish the brat as I see fit. If I believe he deserves to be whipped for his insolence and trouble making then I will. You dare to tell me how-" Yu Ziyuan's eyes rolled to the back of her head and her body dropped to the ground in a heap.

Three small needles protruded from her neck as all eyes landed on her. Wen Qing looked away with a self-satisfied smirk. At everyone's baffled looks, Wei Wuxian doubled over and clutched his stomach as he laughed without restraint. "Qing-jie! Qing-jie! That was amazing!"

As if on cue, sounds of a flute began to flood through the hall as it slowly turned into a soft melody. The white cloth in the front of the hall begins to shift into different images along with the music.

A child is shown sitting in the lap of a female cultivator dressed in white and red robes. As the image pans out, they are shown sitting on top of a donkey being led by a male cultivator dressed in black robes.

Confused murmurs broke out in the hall. Was this some sort of trap? What kind of trick was this? No one has seen anything like this put into use. Even empathy could not be done on this grand of a scale.

Jiang Fengmian pulled the needles from his wife's neck, hoping that she would have calmed down.

“A-Ying, remember the things others do for you, not the things you do for others. Only when people don't hold so much in their hearts would they finally feel free.”

Jiang Fengmian and Lan Qiren froze at the sound of that all familiar voice. It may have been almost 16 years since they last heard that voice but there was no mistaking it.

Cangse Sanren.

Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying's eyes were glued to the scene shown on the cloth. "A-Niang. A-Die", Wei Wuxian whispered. A sense of familiarity overcame Lan Zhan. The child looked awfully familiar. Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan watched the scene with a barely there smile as baby Wei Ying turned a bright smile up at his mother. 'Cute.'

The image shifted to show the Cloud Recesses. Teenage Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng, and Nie Huaisang can be seen crossing a small stone bridge. Laughing at a shared joke.

Wei Wuxian, “Do I not seem decent enough as of right now?”

Jiang Cheng, “You’d definitely be a mark of shame in his entire teaching career.”

Laughter broke out throughout the hall from the playful banter and eased the tense atmosphere slightly. The days when they were 15 and studying in the Cloud Recesses seemed so far away now.

Viewers are shown flying through the clouds until they stopped above a dark cliff. All around are rocks and cliffs covered with what looked like resentful energy. Crows can be seen circling the area like vultures waiting to be fed. Even though it was daytime, no light was strong enough to cut through the resentment.

“Wei Ying, do you know where this is?”

Wei Wuxian's stomach dropped as the memory of that day rushed back. The others in the hall racked their brains to place the voice. Wen Qing narrowed her eyes at the sound of her cousin's voice. Wen Ning glanced at his sister in confusion. Why were they hearing Wen Chao's voice?

"Who is that?" asked Nie Mingjue.  The voice was grating on the nerves and he didn't even know who it belonged to.

Wen Qionglin, "Wen Er-gongzi, Wen Chao."

If they noticed the dark looks on Jiang Wanyin, Lan Wangji, and the older Nie Huaisang, no one dared to mention it.

Scene zooms in to focus on a group of Wen cultivators on their swords. Wei Wuxian is dangled between two of them. Wen Chao grabbed a fistful of hair and jerked Wei Wuxian's head back. “This place is called The Burial Mounds.” the voice sneered. "No living thing can enter this place and return. Body or soul. Don't dream of ever getting out of here."

Horrified gasps ripped through the hall as they realized what was going to happen. They collectively held their breaths hoping to be proven wrong.

Wen Chao's sword plunged through Wei Wuxian's chest. Laughter rang out as they watched the boy being thrown from that height; screams fading away the further he fell.

Jiang Yanli, "A-Xian!"

Jiang Wanyin and Lan Wangji turned their attention to Wei Wuxian. He had gone pale the moment he realized what was about to be revealed. Wei Wuxian never spoke about what happened when he had been thrown into the Burial Mounds. Whatever it was, it still affected him now.

"No one survives the Burial Mounds...it's impossible." whispered Lan Xichen.

Jiang Wanyin, "Wei Wuxian himself is a walking impossibility."

"WEI WUXIAN!"

Jiang Wanyin paled.

Jiang Cheng, "What the - ?"

"A-Cheng." Jiang Fengmian interrupted. That sounded worryingly like Jiang Cheng. But unlike his usual anger, this voice was filled with hate and disdain.

The white cloth changed to show black boots marching up a slope scattered with bones and dead grass. The image expanded out to show purple robes as they continued to march up what was actually a hill and began to blur out of focus.

The twinkling of a bell can be heard as the blurry image begins to become clear again; focusing on a front view of the purple robes. A Yunmeng Jiang Clarity Bell swinging from its belt. The image shifted again to focus on a clenched fist wearing a ring that was emitting purple sparks of lighting.

The Jiangs' attention was caught on the ring shown. Zidian.

"GO TO HELL!"

Shifting once again, the focus now on the hand wielding a purple sword as it found its target in the form of black robes.

Sandu.

Jiang Wanyin fell to his knees as he realized what was being shown on the cloth. 'No...Not this... Anything but this.'

"Jiujiu?" Jin Ling asked, exchanging worried glances with his friends. He couldn't understand his uncle's reaction to what was being shown on the cloth. He was shaking worse than back then at the Guanyin Temple.

Grey eyes opened wide in shock; quickly shifting to understanding. An arm clad in black robes pushing purple robes away as the other arm holds up a metal seal drenched in resentful energy.

'Those eyes…' Jiang Yanli covered her lips with her sleeves to keep from crying out. Her brothers...

"Shit! Where is this coming from? We need to stop it." Wei Wuxian frantically looked around the hall.

Lan Wangji grabbed Wei Wuxian's arm to stop his movements, eyes still glued to the cloth, "Wei Ying..."

Anger in purple eyes gives way to shock as the image zooms out to show Jiang Wanyin gently being pushed back by a wall of fierce corpses. Grey eyes filled with tears as the image zooms out to show a sad smile on Wei Wuxian's face.

"Wei-qianbei??"

"JIANG WANYIN! GET UP AND HELP STOP THIS THING!"

The scene once again focused on the metal in Wei Wuxian's hand and more resentful energy is forced into the seal.

The seal shattered as an explosion rocked through the Burial Mounds. 

Horrified, Lan Jingyi began to ask, "Is this..."

"... how Wei-qianbei died." finished Lan Sizhui.

“Great news! Wei Wuxian has died!”

Chapter Text

"NO! No No No. I... why did I...?" stammered out Jiang Cheng as he collapsed onto the floor. On shaky feet, Jiang Fengmian and Jiang Yanli stumbled into the nearby seats.

Yu Ziyuan pulled her eyes away from the scene depicted, a smirk on her face. "So you finally had enough of cleaning up after his messes. Good riddance." she sneered.

"YU ZIYUAN! If you can not contain yourself, I will ask Wen-yishi to sedate you once again." Warned Yu-zongzhu, staring down his daughter before returning his attention to the cloth. His heart was still unsettled from the scene before. Crooked path or not, the boy was still his adoptive grandson. He watched him grow up and even taught him how to write his first talisman!

Jiang Yanli, "A-Niang... please. Let's not make a scene."

Liu Rushi pulled her friend to sit in the seats opposite where everyone stood. Her behavior was becoming more inappropriate as time went on and she's only embarrassing herself in the end.

Words began appearing on the white cloth in a narrative. A melodic voice read the words out loud.

"The Wen Clan ran amok, and people suffered.

Righteous Clans banded together to launch the Sunshot Campaign to oppose the Wen.

Wei Wuxian, the Yiling Laozu, contributed heavily to the campaign. Turning the tides of the war.

Due to his demonic path and seemingly infinite power, some feared him.

Envied his power.

Even tried to control him.

When he refused, they had him set up.

Thus, he became despised by the public."

If looks could kill, Jin Guangshan would have suffered a painful death a hundred times over.

"Does anyone recognize that voice?"

"Maybe it's the person who brought us here?"

Two cultivators sat side by side near the end of the hall unnoticed. The cultivator in white leaned in to whisper to his companion, "That voice... it sounds like my master."

His companion, "You think she had something to do with this?"

Cultivator in white, "She may not be able to help Shijie but she would let the world burn if it meant saving him."

From her seat next to Yu Ziyuan, Liu Rushi growled at her husband. "A war hero... reduced to nothing but a vilified outcast because of your greed. Will all the riches of Lanlin Jin never be enough for you?!?!"

A tea cup is knocked over.

“The Yiling Laozu has died? Who could have killed him? ”

"No one killed me." murmured Wei Wuxian petulantly under his breath. Lan Wangji stiffened and began to withdraw within himself. Grief overcoming all his senses.

Wei Ying barely managed a smile as he felt Lan Zhan's grip tighten around his pulse point and his breathing stuttered slightly in relief. He was then pulled off the floor and into a seat in front. Lan Zhan's arm wrapped around his shoulders to prevent his wound from touching the hard back of the seat.

“His shidi, Jiang Cheng, of course!"

Jiang Cheng whimpered and curled in on himself from his place on the ground.

The scene morphed to show the steps of Nightless City. Rows of cultivators lined up behind their sect flags as cheers broke out.

"Yunmeng Jiang, Lanling Jin, Gusu Lan, and Qinghe Nie have all taken the lead and burned the Burial Mounds to the ground.”

"Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan, I'm here now. Look at me, Er-gege." Taking Lan Wangji's hand, Wei Wuxian placed it over his heart. "Here, do you feel it? My heart is beating. I'm here, husband."

Lan Wangi, "Wei Ying..." Pulling his husband into his arms, he kept a hand wrapped around the pulse point on Wei Wuxian's wrist.

“That Wei Wuxian. What an ungrateful bastard! The Yunmeng Jiang clan adopted him off the streets and even raised him as his own child."

A busy market is shown as the viewers are taken down an alleyway. A child in dirty torn rags huddled in fear; weakly trying to wave away several stray dogs as they growled and bit at him.

"A-Ying?" The child looked up to see a face with a kind smile on his lips. The man wearing purple robes scared the dogs away as he handed the child a melon slice. "I've found you at last. Let's go home and meet your new siblings, hmm?"

The child's responding smile was the brightest the cultivators had ever seen. Forgetting the situation for a moment, several female cultivators cooed at the cuteness. A small smile found its way onto Lan Qiren's lips before catching himself and schooling his features. Coughing to cover up the slip up when Lan Xichen gave him a knowing smile.

"How did he repay them? Yunmeng Jiang was destroyed! He even defected when he didn't get his way! Prime example of biting the hand that feeds him!”

Lotus Pier is pictured as flames ravaged everything in its path. A flag with a Lotus emblem embroidered on it fell from where it hung to drape over a mound of what looked like purple cloth.

Feeling vindicated, Yu Ziyuan stood from her seat and stalked up to Jiang Fengmian. "I TOLD YOU HE WILL BRING DISASTER TO THE SECT! NOW LOOK! YUNMENG JIANG WAS DESTROYED BY HIM! COME TO YOUR SENSES WHILE YOU STILL CAN!"

Eyes glued to the destruction on the cloth, Jiang Fengmian gave no reply. Fear and terror clawing at him. 'A-Cheng and A-Xian survived. I know that much. But what about the rest of us?'

Jiang Wanyin, "It wasn't his fault."

Yu Ziyuan rounded on him, "Weren't you the one who stabbed him? You're going to defend that disgust-"

Jiang Wanyin caught his mother so she wouldn't end up as a heap on the floor again and placed her in a nearby seat.

"She was warned." Wen Qing tsked as eyes fell on her. The woman needed some time to calm down and Wen Qing was more than happy to assist. If she felt any satisfaction in knocking the woman out, no one needed to know.

Jiang Wanyin, "If this thing is determined to show us what happened in the future I'm afraid she may react the same way again."

Wen Qing, "I have more needles."

Lan Jingyi whispered to his friends, "Sizhui, Wei-qianbei was right... your yima is terrifying." Three nods of agreement.

Rows of fierce corpses formed a barrier between Wei Wuxian and the cultivators trying to cut their way to him.

“Jiang Cheng was one of the main forces but his was not the killing blow. Wei Wuxian’s demonic cultivation had backfired and fierce corpses ripped him to pieces.”

Jiang Yanli, "Ripped..."

Jin Zixuan knelt in front of Jiang Yanli and gently took her hands, "Jiang-guniang, we'll make sure it never happens. I promise. We'll do what we can to prevent all this from happening."

Jiang Yanli gave him a grateful smile, "Jin-gongzi, please call me Yanli." Jin Zixuan stumbled out a reply, "Yanli... you... you may call me Zixuan." Liu Rushi vibrated with happiness as she watched the two blush bright red and shyly peeking at each other.

Staring at the white cloth Lan Qiren intoned, "This is the effects of demonic cultivation.  It will slowly drive the cultivator mad until they no longer recognize those around them. Slowly killing them from the inside like a Qi deviation."

He may have been distracted from the topic but he will find a way to steer the boy away from the crooked path. He was not safe at Lotus Pier with Yu Ziyuan so if he had to drag him back to the Cloud Recesses then so be it.

"That’s karma! His corpse army were like unleashed dogs, biting everyone. Not recognizing friend or foe!”

Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying both shivered at the comparison. Dogs... why did it have to be dogs?

“Three thousand cultivators were annihilated that night!”

“I heard that it was five thousand!”

Lan Jingyi, "They actually believed this crap? Are there even that many cultivators now?"

Jin Ling, "Five thousand? pft, More like less than 100." He crossed his arms over his chest and side-eyed the hall. Daring the cultivators to comment about not having done any of that yet.

'But... we haven't...'

Lan Sizhui, "Zizhen, wasn't your dad there that day? Did you ever ask him about it?" Said Sect Leader inched forward to hear the reply only to step back at Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan's identical cold stares.

Ouyang Zizhen, "I keep asking but he kept yelling at me and demanding for me to stop associating with The Yiling Laozu. I just stopped listening to his rants."

Ouyang-zongzhu, "Ouyang Zizhen! You!"

Ouyang Zizhen rolled his eyes and turned to his friends, "See? I'm not even born yet and he's already yelling at me! A-Die, go have a seat. Your feet must be tired from all this standing."

Jin Ling and Lan Jingyi had to hold back their laughs at the sect leader's red face. Yao-zongzhu and He-zongzhu placatingly pulled Ouyang-zongzhu back to a set of seats as he tried to give his future son a dressing down. Whispering to him about children needed to go through a rebelling stage.

Sounds of swords clashing rang out before Nightless City was once again shown. A strange array can be seen hovering in the sky out of view of the fight down on the ground. Cultivators in different colored robes were fighting each other as well as fierce corpses. A piece of metal can be seen weaving through the crowd as one after another, cultivators kill each other to get their hands on it.

"WHAT?!?!?!" The boys shot to their feet.  Anger slowly overtakes shock at what they've just seen. Lan Sizhui's clenched fist shook as he held in his anger. He had to remind himself these people were not the same ones who wronged his dad.

"They blamed... they placed the blame on Wei-qianbei when it was THEM killing each other?!?!?!" Lan Jingyi screamed.

Tears welled up in his eyes as Ouyang Zizhen looked at his father, "A-Die... you... he... That's why he never wanted to speak about that day. That's why..."

Years after Wei Wuxian returned, Jiang Wanyin had gotten drunk one evening and told Jin Ling about the day Jiang Yanli was killed. That Wei Wuxian wasn't to blame for it. But he never spoke about what else happened there. Now he had so many questions. How many more things would the history texts be wrong about?

"What is that piece of metal?"

"I've never seen it before?"

“I heard back then, Wei Wuxian was number four on the list of top cultivators. He was considered a genius at a young age. How did he end up in this situation? Not even a corpse to his name!"

After Wei Wuxian’s death, everyone was still uneasy.

No one could summon Wei Wuxian’s soul. Not even the lone cultivator who desperately awaited his reply.

The Cloud Recesses came into view as the viewers were flown through the gates towards the back hills. A lone figure dressed in white is playing Inquiry on the guqin in front of him. Several spirits can be seen around him but none gives the right reply. Golden eyes became downcast as he played the song again.

"Wei Ying, where are you?"

"Wei Ying, will you still come back?"

"Wei Ying, please..."

Blushing, Wei Ying tried to catch Lan Zhan's eyes but he stubbornly looked away. Heart thundering and ears pink.

Curiosity peaked in Nie Mingjue so he inquired, "Does the spirit have a choice to refuse to answer?"

Lan Zhan, "Mn. Will always know when spirits show. Spirits can't lie but can refuse to answer." 'Did Wei Ying refuse to answer because I wasn't at his side?'

"If even Wangji couldn't summon you, does that mean your soul was shattered?" Lan Xichen asked Wei Wuxian.

Deflecting from answering the question, Wei Wuxian stated "Ah, I have no memories of the time I was dead. For me it was as if only a day passed in between."

Lan Wangji, 'Even now he still doesn't answer.'

Lan Qiren, "If his soul was shattered then that means..." He let the thought drop as his eyes landed on Wei Ying and then Wei Wuxian. The traumas of a war was enough to break any strong cultivator's mind. Combine that with demonic cultivation and being vilified. Lan Qiren closed his eyes. He can see how one would want to end it all.

The first year... nothing happened.

Second year... nothing happened.

Third year... nothing happened.

Finally in the thirteenth year... nothing happened either.

Nie Huaisang, "I wonder why they state the years like that. Is there something significant about the 13 years?"

Hiding his smile behind the fan, The Head Shaker studies his younger self. 'Let's see how long it takes for you to figure out why Da-ge died.' His eyes flicker over to Jin Guangshan. 'As for you…' He turns his head and shares a smile with Liu Rushi.

"A-Xian." Jiang Fengmian quickly went to kneel before Wei Ying. Making sure the boy is looking at him, Jiang Fengmian gestured for Wei Wuxian to come to his side. Lan Wangji followed close behind.

Grabbing both their hands he begged, "A-Xian. Please. Promise me you would never ever take your own life. We will do everything we can to prevent these tragedies whatever they may be from happening. Please. Please, promise me. You are important to so many people. You are loved by so many."

Wei Wuxian looked up at his husband with a fond smile, "I promise, Sect Leader Jiang."

Jiang Fengmian furrowed his eyebrows at the formal address but chose to address it later.

Wei Ying had his head bowed and eyes set stubbornly to the floor. At Wei Ying's downcast look, Lan Zhan's brow furrowed.

"Wei Ying."

Wei Ying looked up at his call, "Lan Zhan?"

Lan Zhan, "Would like to stay by your side. If you will allow it."

Wei Ying, "I thought you hated me. I annoyed you so much!"

Ears red, Lan Zhan forced himself to look Wei Ying in the eyes. "Never hated Wei Ying. Do not mind your presence."

Lan Wangji, "Mn, love Wei Ying." At Lan Zhan's glare of betrayal and Wei Ying's wide eyed shock, Lan Wangji's face seemed... smug? Wei Wuxian wasn't the only chaos gremlin in this marriage but people did not need to know that.

"Aiya, Lan Zhan! You're going to give mini-me a heart attack." Cackled Wei Wuxian. "Why don't we all sit down and watch whatever it is that's being shown to us? Looks like we can't get out of here until it's over."

Each cultivator that had remained standing took a seat with their own sect. The time travelers sat together up front with the exception of the Head Shaker. He's sticking to Da-ge like glue until it's time to separate. Lan Xichen took the seat to the left of Lan Zhan while Lan Qiren sat to Lan Xichen’s left.

The hall suddenly dimmed as the viewers turned their attention back to the white cloth.

Chapter Text

A drop of black ink drips onto the cloth causing ripples as if the cloth was a pool of water. The ink spreads and forms into words:

13 years later...

Nie Huaisang let out a squeak as he excitedly tugged on his brother's sleeve. Lan Xichen laughed at his antics while Nie Mingjue became annoyed.

Nie Mingjue, "HUAISANG!" Making Nie Huaisang abruptly release the sleeve with an "EEEEP."

Liu Rushi went to remove the needles from her friend's neck. Yu Ziyuan sat up straight as she came to and looked at Madam Jin. "What happened, Rushi?"

Liu Rushi, "You were sedated when you became hysterical. We all agreed you needed some time to cool down."

Liu Rushi grabbed her hand. "Ziyuan, you need to pull yourself together. You are making yourself look unreasonable and to be honest, while I sympathize with your situation, I can not condone your behavior. Now, will you calmly join us or does Wen-yishi need to put her needles back in you?"

Still groggy from the needles, Yu Ziyuan put up a hand to placate Liu Rushi and nodded her head in agreement.

A run down room flashes on the cloth. A gust of wind  blows through the cracks on the doors and windows displacing papers throughout the room. Alarming amounts of blood painted an array on the floor. The image focuses on a figure in black kneeling in the middle of the array. His face obscured by his bangs. His words run together as he gets more and more agitated.

"I didn't want to use this spell but they're too much.

With my blood,

drawn by my hand,

I sacrifice my body to you,

my soul shall disappear...

I had no other choice.

Take revenge for me, Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian!"

Sparks of resentful energy enter the array as it lights up an eerie red. White light engulfs the cloth and blocks out the image

Slowly the image of the array trickled back in as the red glow died out. The kneeling figure collapsed to the ground as if whatever was holding him up let go.

Jiang Cheng, "Was that... Was that how you were brought back?"

Wei Wuxian, "Mo Xuanyu was so desperate for revenge on his family in Mo Village that he willingly sacrificed his soul to force my soul back into the world of the living."

Seeing through another's eyes, the image flickered a few times. Blinking to clear the vision only to be met with a fast approaching foot.

Instinct made some of the cultivators flinch away.

The man in black was kicked backwards and headfirst to the ground. A wave of nausea and dizziness kept him laying still on the ground.

Walking up to the white cloth, Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying studied the image. Minds working to figure out how they were brought here.

Wei Wuxian, "This seems like a modified version of Empathy. You are able to see and hear what the spirit or person sees and hears but not feel anything else. Almost detached yet not."

Wei Ying, "It isn't pulling on our souls or energies like Empathy would either. I'm willing to guess that there may be two arrays. One in our time, to contain us to this space as a form of Empathy."

Wei Wuxian, "And the other in my time with a time travel specification to bring us here when the boys were close enough to it."

'You dare kick the Yiling Laozu. How reckless.'

Anger radiated from those who knew Wei Wuxian. Whoever this person was, they were going to pay it back ten fold for that kick.

Wei Ying, "WAIT! Is it showing our thoughts too?!?!?" staring wide eyed at Wei Wuxian

Wei Wuxian, "Oh... no."

Confused by their reactions, the others looked to the time travelers for answers. Finding them looking confused as well.

A round face shoved its way into view. Bushy eyebrows sat on top of mud brown eyes. Face a sickly complexion. Spit flew as the boy began to shriek,

"Let me give you some advice. Don't daydream like that servant mother of yours. She was a servant. So you are a servant. Lowlife will stay lowlife. Lanling Jin's Sect Leader will never recognize you again after the crap you pulled!"

The Jiangs flinched at the familiar insults being thrown at Wei Wuxian.

Nie Mingjue, "Who is this brat?" His voice dripped with disapproval and disgust.

Lan Sizhui, "Mo Er-gongzi, Mo Ziyuan. Mo Xuanyu's cousin."

Jin ZiXuan stiffened at the knowledge that the man was one of his father's bastards. It seems his father has no qualms with bringing his bastards to Jinlintai in the next few years as a threat for his compliance.

Liu Rushi clutched a fistful of her skirt to keep from lashing out at her bastard husband. ‘Patience Rushi. Patience.’ No one threatens her son's rightful place as heir.

Jin Zixuan, "Wait... then does that make Wei Wuxian... my brother?"

Jiang Wanyin and Jiang Cheng shouted, "NO! He's my brother!" Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying howled in laughter. Jiang Yanli and Jiang Fengmian laugh into their sleeves.

Wei Wuxian, "A-Cheng... you two..." Everyone fought back laughter as both Jiang Chengs huffed and looked away with arms crossed.

Indicating the empty seat next to Liu Rushi, the Head Shaker asked, "Jin-furen, May I have a moment of your time?" Sitting down at her nod.

Nie Huaisang narrows his eyes as his future self cozy up to Jin-furen. ‘He's up to something.’

Nie Mingjue's "Huaisang's up to no good" alarms are blaring as he follows his younger brother's gaze to find the older Huaisang in a conversation with Jin-furen. He hadn't missed the hatred filled glares being directed at Jin Guangshan behind that stupid fan when he thought no one was looking.

On the cloth, Wei Wuxian has pulled himself up from the floor. Now kneeling, he leaned over the water basin. The face of a hanged ghost flashed on the cloth.

"GHOST!"

"A VENGEFUL GHOST!"

Rolling his eyes at their reactions, Wei Wuxian sat back down, "Calm down... it was just a painted face. Mo Xuanyu wasn't really an expert at face paints, you know."

Lifting his arms, he found several cuts crisscrossing them.

‘Spirits summoned through this ritual are forced into the summoner's body and must fulfill the summoner's wish. These wounds will worsen overtime. If the wish is not fulfilled in time, this body along with my soul will be ripped apart.’

Wei Wuxian flinched at the loud shouts that came from very close by. He had hoped this part would have been skipped over.

Jin Ling, "You fulfilled Mo Xuanyu's wish didn't you? I swear I'm going to break your legs for not telling us about something this important!"

Lan Wangji, "Wei Ying."

Wei Wuxian, "Aiya... calm down. Everything is fine now. See? All healed!" as he pulled up his sleeves to show everyone.

‘Wait...he didn't tell me his wish!’

The viewers watched with dread as Wei Wuxian shuffled through all the papers strewn about.

Plopping on the floor, Wei Wuxian pouted and kicked his feet like a child throwing a tantrum.

"Mo Xuanyu, how can you forget such an important step?!?!?" whined Wei Wuxian.

‘Shall I humiliate them? Beat them down?’

Standing up slowly on wobbling legs, Wei Wuxian lifted his head to reveal a smirk that sent chills down their spines. His eyes flash red.

‘Kill them all?’

The air in the hall seems to have been sucked out at that smile. The instantaneous switch from a childish Wei Wuxian to the Yiling Laozu gave some whiplash.

The Yiling Laozu, according to the rumors in the viewing said he slaughtered many, wouldn't blink at a few deaths. But the one sitting before them seemed like a completely different person.

The cultivation world expected blood and gore. Ruthless slaughter. Total destruction and annihilation if he were to return. Instead, here he was. Starving and being belittled by those weaker than him. Loud growls reached the viewer's ears as arms shakily crawled across towards the door.

‘Don't tell me I'm going to be the first villainous ghoul summoned...only to starve to death the first day…’

Laughter broke out throughout the hall at the boy's thoughts.

Nie Huaisang, "Speaking of hunger... we've been here for a while. Is anyone else getting hungry?"

Wei Ying, "Ahhh Shijie's Lotus Root and Pork Ribs soup sounds divine right about.... now?”

As Wei Ying spoke, bowls and cups began to appear on a table in front of the white cloth. A familiar smell wafted through the hall as two large soup pots materialized on the table as well as pots of tea.

"Was that table always there?"

"I don't remember seeing it there... odd"

Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin walked up to the pot and froze; eyes watering up before they each filled a bowl.

"Lotus Root and Pork Ribs soup. It's... it's Shijie's cooking! Lan Zhan! There's one without the ribs here! You can have a taste of Shijie's soup now!" cried Wei Wuxian.

Jin Ling rushed forward to fill himself a bowl, excited to be able to eat his mother's soup for the first time. Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi, and Ouyang Zizhen followed eagerly. Appreciative hums filled the hall as one by one the cultivators returned to their seats with a bowl of soup.

Lan Qiren, "Jiang-guniang, if this is a testament to your cooking skills, I am quite impressed. The soup was enjoyable." Everyone hummed in agreement.

Jiang Yanli bows in thanks, "I'm not quite sure how it happened but I couldn't be more appreciative to be able to provide some form of comfort."

Pulling himself up from the ground, Wei Wuxian made to leave only to find the door was locked. Voices drifted through the door that made Wei Wuxian smile mischievously. The servants, A-Tong and A-Ding, stood outside a door gossiping as it slams open, knocking the servants to the side.

A-Tong, "You...You...You...Do you want to die? I'm going to give you the beating of your life!"

Giggling like a madman, Wei Wuxian lands a kick to A-Tong's head causing A-Ding to shrink back in fear. A low dangerous voice spoke to the downed servant.

"How dare an errand-running child humiliate others like this."

Legs step over the unconscious body and continue to walk slowly away.

Mouths hung open as they looked between Wei Wuxian and the retreating back.

Nie Huaisang turns to Wei Ying, "Wei-xiong... you're really scary when you get serious like that."

Attempting to calm his heart, Wei Ying replied "I scare me too..."

Wei Wuxian laughed at that. "You know I can never stay serious for long! That's just not my way!"

The viewers are taken into the main house where villagers have crowded the doors. Trying to get a glimpse of the cultivators.

“It so happens that our family also has a young man who studied cultivation at a prominent sect-”

Servants' shouts can be heard as they try to wrangle a figure running through the courtyard. "Here! I’m coming. Right here! I'm the only one here who used to be a cultivator!"

The doors to the room burst open as Wei Wuxian comes barrelling through, tripping on the door ledge. He's saved from falling flat on his face when his arm is grabbed by one of the cultivators.

Lan Jingyi, "Hey! It's me!"

Looking up at the boy who caught him he noticed the cloud pattern on his forehead ribbon. ‘ He must be a descendant of Gusu Lan. What a coincidence.’

Troublemaking smile in place, Wei Wuxian releases his best madman giggle and he pushes into the boy's personal space and knocks him backwards.

"Are you the one that's hiding my things?"

"Wei-qianbei really took to acting like a madman didn't he?" Ouyang Zizhen asked. He wasn't there that day and was told in detail what had happened but this... he gets to see it himself!

The scene flashed to Wei Wuxian hugging a column tightly as servants tried to pull him away. Mo-furen shouting at him for purposely making a scene. Lan disciples seated across from the column tried to hide their laughter when Lan Sizhui turned a reprimanding look at them.

Wei Ying, "He really is a mini-Lan Zhan! Does he go "Mn" like him too?

"Yes!" responded the time travelers, causing Lan Sizhui to blush.

Lan Qiren nodded his head in approval. The disciple truly did take after Lan Wangji. Seeing the proud looks on the faces of  Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan made Lan Xichen want to bundle them all into a hug.

Wei WuXian, “He stole my belongings. I want them back. Does that also count as making a scene?”

Side glancing at the cultivators, Mo-furen spoke in a condescending tone, “Stealing? Robbing? We're one family here. He only wanted to take a look at your things. He's your younger cousin, what's wrong with him borrowing a few things? You're the older one, don't be so stingy with your things. It’s not as if they won't be returned.”

Jiang Yanli, "That's not how that works..."

Wei Wuxian, "Then return them."

"That woman is worse than her son. Who would dare act in such a way if she didn't allow it." Yu Ziyuan disapprovingly remarked.

The image flashes and this time Wei Wuxian stands before Lan Sizhui's seat.

"Next time, try stealing anything from me again. I'll cut off one of your hands!”

Mo Ziyuan's face scrunched up in rage at being so humiliated. ‘The lunatic dies tonight!’

Lan Jingyi broke out in laughter as he remembered this scene. "Look, Wei-qianbei just predicted the future!"

Jiang Wanyin once again pinched the bridge of his nose. All of this was starting to give him a migraine the size of Yunmeng.

Wei Wuxian checked his cuts as he walked out of the hall but none had healed. Heaving a sigh, he decided to head to the stalls to cause more mayhem. No one runs wild like he does!

Back in the hall, Lan Sizhui blocked the door as Mo Ziyuan made to follow Wei Wuxian. The Lans bow to a red faced Mo-furen as they are ready to leave the family drama.

“Your family business is not our concern so we will begin setting up the West Courtyard for tonight. Please remind everyone of the things that I’ve talked about—after nightfall, close all of the windows. Don’t come outside or break the seals. It will be dangerous."

Lan disciples are spread out throughout the yard as Wei Wuxian walks by.

‘Do I really have to kill the entire family? This forbidden ritual should have been long lost. Where did Mo Xuanyu learn it?’ Distracted by his thoughts, something fluttering caught his eye.

‘The clans called for my blood but they still use my inventions all the same.’

Wei Ying excitedly turned to Wei Wuxian, "You finished them? They work?"

Jiang Fengmian, "What are those flags? I don't believe I have seen them before."

Lan Sizhui, "Those are Black Wind Flags. They use Qi as living bait to lure resentful ghosts and creatures to where the flags are. This in turn, allows us to lure ghosts and creatures away from civilians so that they do not become harmed during the night hunt."

Lan Xichen, "That's quite brilliant, Wei-gongzi! Control over where the fighting will be avoided any potential disasters to non-cultivators as well as structures."

Lan Qiren and Nie Mingjue humms in agreement.

Jin Guangshan eyes the flag and contemplates his chances of talking Wei Ying into selling him full rights to the flags. This will bring tons of money if he's cornered the use of these.

Lan Jingyi catches movement in the corner of his eyes. Turning he sees Wei Wuxian removing a flag from the pole.

Lan Jingyi, “Please go back to your room. This isn’t a place a person like you should be.”

Jumping down from the roof when he was ignored, Lan Jingyi shouted as he grabbed the flag, "Stop that! That's not something you should be taking! Give it back or I'll hit you!"

"Jingyi, 10 times."

Sighing, Lan Sizhui pulls out a blank talisman paper along with a brush and ink. He gets the feeling there will be more punishments to be meted out today for them.

Internally crying, Jingyi bows, "Yes, Hanguang-jun. Wei-qianbei, I apologize."

Wei Wuxian holds back a smile, "It's nothing Jingyi. I was purposely being quite annoying. Lan Zhan, to be fair he was polite first."

Lan Wangji, "Mn. Sizhui, take off 5."

Though Gusu Lan joined the siege against him, these boys were not a part of it. They're too young to have felt the sting of war. Wei Wuxian had checked over the flag drawn as they tugged it back and forth. Though inexperienced, the flag was precise and correct. It would only attract those from within 5 li of Mo Village so it shouldn't be any trouble. Wei Wuxian decided to stick around to lend a hand if needed.

Lan Sizhui, "Mo-gongzi, it is getting dark. It is going to be dangerous here once we start. You should head back. Please ignore any sounds you may hear and stay inside."

Wei Wuxian looked up to see the embroidered cloud patterns on his robe. A man wearing a similar set of robes flashed on the cloth as if it was a memory. The madman's smile dropped as Wei Wuxian crouched down holding the flag in his hands.

The image of Lan Wangji merged with Lan Sizhui as he crouched down next to Wei Wuxian. "Is everything ok, Mo-gongzi?"

"It’s just a piece of cloth, what’s the big deal? I can draw better than this!” As if snapping out of his trance, Wei Wuxian threw the flag on the ground in a huff and stomped on it before running off with arms and feet flailing.

Laughter once again filled the hall at Wei Wuxian's antics. The adults were having a hard time trying not to reprimand him because they knew what he was trying to do. But they at least were comforted to know he didn't outright slaughter the family. Even if they deserved it.

"Of course you can draw it better... you invented it!"  Jin Ling laughed.

Back in the room Wei Wuxian settles against the wall and pulls out a leaf. As he plays a song, the image of the cultivator in Lan robes flashes into view again. Even though they could not see above his chest, in the man's hand was Bichen , Lan Wangji's sword. "Lan Zhan''

This song... Lan Zhan stares at the image as if it would give him the answers he needed.

In the courtyard, the song drifts over to the Lans currently standing guard on the roof. Lan Sizhui turns his head towards the song as if trying to place where he's heard it before.

Lan Sizhui, "Jingyi! This song sounds very familiar. We've heard it before."

Lan Jingji, "It sounds like a Gusu lullaby. Whoever is playing that song though... It sounds terrible."

"Jingyi. 5 more"

"Yes, Hanguang-jun."

Wei Wuxian settles in for a nap. It will be a while before the boys are finished anyways. The night sky gets darker as noise begins to filter through the doors, waking Wei Wuxuan up.

"Barge in and drag him out!”

“Notify the officials!”

“What do you mean ‘notify the officials’? Beat him to death!”

“Drag the mad murderer out and make him pay with his life!”

Chapter Text

"Are we missing something? A-Xian hasn't done anything but sleep in the room." Jiang Fengmian asked his fellow sect leaders.

Wen Qionglin, "I'm afraid even when asleep, trouble manages to find Wei-gongzi."

Flame torches convalesce in the West Courtyard. The whole household was awakened. Wei Wuxian is shoved to the ground in front of Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi. To their side, Mo-furen is wailing over a shrunken corpse on the ground. Left arm missing.

Wei Wuxian's earlier threat floats back into everyone's minds. Lan Jingyi's words now made sense.

"What are the chances..."

‘Did something go wrong with their formation? My inventions require extra care to be used safely but I made sure it was correct before I left-’

Suddenly, Mo-furen lunges at Wei Wuxian.

Jiang Yanli shoots up from her seat, instinctively running to protect her A-Xian. Instead, she found herself wrapped in the arms of both Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin. Confused, she looked up at her brothers.

Jiang Wanyin, trying to calm his racing heart, manages to cry out "A-Jie... please."

Her A-Xian and A-Cheng are shaking. Jiang Yanli's heart breaks. Her brothers... something must have happened to her for her brothers to react like this.

"Shi- Jiang Yanli,  please promise me you... Never EVER run into a battlefield. Never try to take a blow for me again. I don't care if you feel it is your duty to save me. You can save me just by being alive. A world without Jiang Yanli... your brothers can not be without Jiang Yanli."

Jiang Yanli, "You know I can't promise-"

Jin Ling, "A-Niang. You.. you took a fatal blow meant for Da-jiu at Nightless City and he lost the last tether of his sanity. Da-jiu was already blamed for A-Die's death and then he was blamed for your death as well. That was why Jiujiu...led the siege. Da-jiu and Jiujiu have never forgiven themselves for not protecting you better."

Swallowing down the lump in her throat, Jiang Yanli palms her brothers' cheeks. "You two have suffered so much, haven't you?"

Wei Wuxian easily stepped back to avoid the blow while Mo-furen shrieked, "It was you! You killed him! You bastard! He was just a child!"

Lan Sizhui stepped between Mo-furen and Wei Wuxian, "Mo-furen, your son's flesh and blood have been drained by evil spirits. Mo-gongzi did not do this."

Angered, Mo-furen shoved his hand aside. "You all heard him today. He threatened to cut his hand off! Just Look! I'll Kill you!"

The glint of a knife blade catches Wei Wuxian's attention. His mouth twitches, trying not to laugh, as he ruffles his fringe and lets out a loud wail, "Don't kill me! Help me! She's trying to kill me!"

Lan Qiren's eyebrows twitched once before he closed his eyes and tried to meditate. This is going to take 20 years off of his life by the end he's sure.

Running around like a maniac, Wei Wuxian trips over Mo Zixuan's body and dislodges his robes before sitting down on a nearby railing. Watching as Lan Sizhui picks up a Black Wind Flag that fell out of the robes.

Speaking loud enough for everyone to hear, Wuxian comments, "He even dares to steal this kind of stuff... No wonder the evil spirit possessed him."

"This is why civilians shouldn't mess with things they don't understand."

"Yes! They can't defend themselves from the foul without our help! Spirit possession is hard even for us cultivators."

Lan Jingyi, "Mo Ziyuan ordered his servant, A-Tong, to steal the flag to frame Mo Xuanyu and to get him killed in the process. Unfortunately, resentful ghosts and creatures don't discriminate who its victims are and he made himself a target with the flag."

‘Three wounds equals three lives. Mo Ziyuan stole the flag and got himself killed. I created the flag therefore the ritual accepted it as my kill. An unfortunate accident.’

Lan Qiren, "The ritual seems to have lax definitions of how a wish is fulfilled. Wei Wuxian. You said you created this self-sacrificial ritual?"

Wei Wuxian, "No Lan-xiansheng, I found the ritual while I scoured the library at Qishan Wens' Yiling Supervisory office for information about... um research. Ah wait... the supervisory offices don’t exist yet. Huh, anyway! I found a book about arrays and rituals while researching and Wen Qing let me read it. It was interesting so I memorized it. I later improved on the ritual to remove the archaic requirement for additional human sacrifice. Aside from self sacrifice, that is. I mean, can you imagine being forcibly shoved into a body and then find out you have to slaughter 50 children before you can even begin working on fulfilling the summoner's wish. If you don't complete it within the first day, your body and soul gets destroyed. How senseless and evil the ritual would become? So I changed it! I didn't expect for it to change the way it interprets fulfillment though. I still don't know for sure how Mo Xuanyu got his hands on it."

Nie Mingjue, who had been carefully watching the movements of the time travelers, noticed the sideways glance that Wei Wuxian threw towards the Head Shaker as he said the last words. Suspicion nagged at him as the Head Shaker calmly opened his fan to fan himself, not looking Wei Wuxian's way.

Lan Wangji, "After the siege of the Burial Mounds, Lanling Jin took possession of all Wei Ying's notes. Kept Suibian as a trophy." Anger flashed in his golden eyes at the memory.

Yu Ziyuan studies Jiang Wanyin as she states, "It is standard practice to return the sword of a deceased cultivator to their family. He may have defected but they should still have returned his sword to Yunmeng Jiang."

Jiang Wanyin couldn't meet his family's eyes. "I... Jin Guangyao knew I was in no state to make a proper decision after the events of Nightless City and used it to the Jin's advantage. I was still angry and he knew that in my anger I would refuse to take Wei Wuxian's sword. So when they made a show to present the sword to me... I did exactly as he expected. I refused to even touch it. They took no effort to hide that they were looking for Chenqing, the Ghost Flute, and I neglected to tell them that it was in my possession."

Liu Rushi, "Jin Guang yao?" Her hopes that this Jin Guangyao was a lost sibling of her husband was dashed when the Head Shaker spoke next.

"The Nies and Er-ge... ah, that is... Zewu-jun knows him as Meng Yao right now. Da-ge never told me why he was kicked out but I could only find out that Meng Yao was kicked out the same day the head guard died. Allegedly, Jin Guangyao turned spy for the allies during the Sunshot Campaign and was the one who killed Wen Rouhan. Jin-zongzhu recognized him only after he, Da-ge, and Er-ge became sworn brothers. Though he was named Guang instead of Zi, effectively cutting him from the line of succession."

Lan Xichen noted the underlying anger in the Head Shaker's tone. Although they were Nie Mingjue's sworn brothers, the Head Shaker had referred to him as Er-ge out of habit but Jin Guangyao is only ever referred to by name in a detached manner.

With downcast eyes, Wei Wuxian observes the Lan boys' darkened faces and clenched fists as Mo-furen berates them.

Mo-furen, "Worthless fools. What summoning spirits. What catching demons? You can't even protect a child. What good are you?"

Nie Mingjue, "This woman is a real piece of work."

The Lans' expressions all became dark with offense. This woman dares to treat disciples of Gusu Lan in such a manner.

' After all these years the Lan Clan still remains the same. What good is being so polite now? Let me show them how it's done.'

"Peeh!!" Jumping from the railing, Wei Wuxian blocks the boys from Mo-furen's view.  The image focuses on Wei Wuxian's arm as they cross in front of his chest. Another cut slowly healed and faded away.

Wei Wuxian, "A child? How old was your son? He was at least 17, right? He's old enough to understand the basic commands. Did they or did they not tell you to not break any seals? Did they not tell you to stay inside no matter what you hear? He snuck out at night to steal something that's dangerous. Is that their fault? Or his?"

Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingy's face brightens in grateful relief and the cloth becomes blank.

Lan Xichen stands to bow to Wei Wuxian in gratitude. "Thank you for coming to Gusu Lan's defense, Wei-gongzi."

Chuckling uncomfortably, Wei Wuxian waves off the gesture. "Ah... it was nothing. Really!"

The image returns as a talisman shoots out to land on A-Tong's forehead and activates. Resentment poured out of the body and A-Tong's corpse fell to the ground. Left arm missing.

'A ghost repelling barrier? Impressive for someone this young.' Wei Wuxian compliments as he sees the talismans glow to confirm it was still intact.

Wei Wuxian's big smile and Lan Wangji's nod in agreement at the compliment made Lan Sizhui blush and Lan Jingyi straighten his back with pride. Ouyang Zizhen and Jin LIng bump their shoulders. Wei-qianbei is always free with his compliments and affection but to know he approved of them even before he even knew them was endearing.

Lan Jingyi turns as Lan Sizhui lands next to him. "We set this up earlier but it's not damaged. Maybe this thing wasn't a fierce ghost?"

Frowning, Lan Sizhui looks around his surroundings looking for clues. "Mn. One victim in seven days, possibly qualifies as an unsuppressed fierce ghost according to standards set up by the Yiling Patriarch. But three have been killed in a row. It's far more ferocious."

Surprised, Lan Qiren asks, "A standardized system of identifying resentful creatures?"

Ouyang Zizhen, "It's the standard basis all clans have been using for the past 30 years to help prepare for night hunts. Wei-qianbei has updated it throughout the years to include 25 additional rankings for cursed objects and man-made abysses."

Nie Mingjue, "Impressive. Do you think you'd be able to recreate it when we get back, Wei-gongzi?"

Wei Ying took a minute to think about what he would need to accomplish such a task, "Given time and resources I will be able to."

Lan Zhan, "Will help Wei Ying." Ears turning red when Wei Ying sent him a smile.

Wei Wuxian bumped shoulders with Lan Wangji to whisper, "I forgot how adorable you are at that age." To Wei Ying, he says, "I can go over the basics with you so you will have a starting point."

Lan Jingyi, "That's troublesome. What should we do now?"

Lan Sizhui, "Send the signal."

Nodding, Lan Jingy frowns before stating, "If there's no Seniors nearby to back up when we send the signal then..."

Lan Sizhui, "As members of Gusu Lan, we can't leave the people here to die. Even if we die... we must hold on until backup arrives."

Nie Mingjue, "Gusu Lan Sect truly are the model of what a cultivator should strive to become. Your disciples are truly exemplary."

The Lans stand to bow to Nie Mingjue in gratitude. Seeing the boys' camaraderie with each other, the future seems a little brighter for the cultivators.

Lan Jingyi whispers to Lan Sizhui, "Think they'll forget about my punishment?" Although he had meant it as a whisper, his voice was still loud enough for the elder Lans to hear. Lan Qiren clears his throat and shoots him a silencing glare causing the Nie brothers and Wei Ying to laugh.

The image follows the boys' determined gaze as it comes closer to the moon then to pull backwards to show a cultivator in white staring out into the night. One arm bent behind his back. The strumming of a guqin can be heard from behind. As the Cloud insignia blooms in the night sky, the cultivator turns to gather the guqin before flying in that direction.

Lan Xichen, "Inquiry?"

Wei Ying, "Lan Zhan! What's it saying?" When no reply comes, he looks to Lan Zhan. His eyebrows were furrowed as if displeased by something.

Lan Wangji, "Played Inquiry wherever Wangji went. Looking for Wei Ying. Souls did not know who Wei Ying was."

Gasping loudly, Lan Jingyi grabbed Lan Sizhui's sleeve. "Did Hanguang-jun secretly follow us because it was your first night hunt without him?"

Smiling, Lan Sizhui nodded. "Hanguang-jun always worried whenever I went on a night hunt without him."

The cloth switches to Wei Wuxian crouched on the ground as he mumbles to himself. Cheek supported by his left wrist. The cloth covering his forearm becomes transparent so the viewers can see the final and deepest cut heal and fade away.

Wei Wuxian, "Forget it, let's finish this quickly. I can't leave until..." Finally noticing that his arm no longer stung with movement, he pulls back his sleeve. The cuts have all healed. 'Mo Ziyuan and the servant's death would have healed two of the cuts. Then deepest cut would have been for Madam Mo. That means…'  

Madam Mo comes into view as her slumped form starts to twitch.

"What is this thing? It's possessing and killing in rapid succession!"

"Could it be a ghost?"

"No, it's too vicious to be one!"

Wei Wuxian felt a presence at his side so he peeled his eyes away from the scene to find Wen Qing standing in front of him. Wen Ning shyly smiles at him from behind her shoulder. The look on her face was so familiar that he instinctively held out his left arm to her without her having to ask.

Wen Qing's eyes widened slightly in shock at the action before settling back to a determined neutral expression. Grabbing his arm, she pulls up his sleeves to examine any scars before checking his pulse. She reached for his core and nearly dropped his wrist from the amount of spiritual energy coursing through his meridians. He and Lan Wanji look at her with laughter in their eyes as Wei Wuxian puts a finger to his mouth. It was a secret they didn't want to share just yet.

Nodding her assent, Wen Qing lets go of his wrist.  "There are no visible lasting effects from the cuts. Your spiritual pathways and meridians are unclogged and undamaged unlike what is usually found in those who try to control resentful energy."

Wen Qing returned to her seat, mind occupied by what she's just encountered. Have they managed the impossible?

Time skips again as the viewers are brought back to see Wei Wuxian once again running away from a yelling Lan Jingyi while laughing. Mo-furen stood up slowly from where she had fainted. Her left arm twitched as she pulled herself up straight. The nails on her left hand begin to grow longer as the hand starts to flex. The image focuses on her head as it lifts and her eyes snap open to reveal the white pupils of a fierce corpse.

Wei Ying, "It's the left arm. They're all being possessed by something in the left arm."

Lan Zhan. "Mn."

Leaning on a column, Wei Wuxian observed as the boys pieced together the clues with a smile on his face.

Lan Sizhui, "The left arm! Get in formation!"

'Those two are pretty good at this.' Laughing quietly to himself, Wei Wuxian messed up his hair and let out a wail as he ran towards the boys. "Don't leave me here all alone! I'm scared!" The boys look up and roll their eyes as he runs behind them.

Time skips again as Wei Wuxian caused another scene and runs to hide behind the rock formation in the garden. Mo-furen's left arm breaks free of the binding talisman and twists and aims for Lan Sizhui.

"Sizhui! Watch out-" Lan Jingy gets out before he finds himself hurling towards Lan Sizhui from a kick to his back. Incantations on his robes began to glow when the arm grabbed a fistful of Lan Jingyi's robe.

Quickly throwing off his outer robe, Lan Jingyi rounds on Wei Wuxian, "You lunatic, why did you kick me? Are you trying to get me killed?!"

"It wasn't me!" countered Wei Wuxian before quickly hiding behind the stone decoration again.

Lan Wangji made to add more punishment for Lan Jingyi's shouting but Wei Wuxian called to him. "Aiyo, Lan Zhan! He just lost his composure from my great acting! Give him some leeway for me?"

After a moment, Lan Wangji agreed. "Mn. If Wei Ying wants."

Lan Jingyi slumps in relief and shoots Wei Wuxian a bow in appreciation for saving his forearms.

Lan Qiren lets out an exasperated sigh. "Lan Jingyi. How exactly are you the Head of Discipline?"

Wei Ying doesn't hold in a laugh. "Who better to mete out punishment than one who knows how to interpret the rules and exactly how to circumvent it!"

Lan Sizhui, "That was exactly what Wei-qianbei said when he suggested Lan Jingyi to Lan-xiansheng for the position. Even Lan-xiansheng admitted that it was a great argument and he approved the recommendation. There has been less rules being broken as of yet."

Wei Ying, "So... how many rules had he broken for me to come up with this idea?"

Lan Sizhui, "Only one other person has broken anywhere near as much rules as Jingyi has."

Always up for gossip, Nie Huaisang asks, "Oh? And who is that?"

Jiang Wanyin deadpans, "Wei Wuxian."

Realizing the arm is repelled by the incantations on the Lan robes, Lan Sizhui called to Lan Jingyi. "The spell on the clothes work. Now!"

Jin Ling, "Da-jiu! Did you know about the incantations on the robes?"

Wei Ying, "Oh that's easy! When Jiang Cheng and I were at the Cloud Recesses for studies we had to wear student robes! Lan Zhan and I were attacked by fierce corpses once and I realized that the robes had incantations sewn into them. It only works once if the being was really powerful though. I've thought about trying to do something like that as well for Yunmeng Jiang when I got back home. And well... things happened."

In the back of the yard, Wei Wuxian casually walks up to the corpses of Mo Ziyuan and A-Tong. Smiling, he lets his eyes flash red before bending to speak into the corpse's ear.

"Still sleeping?" The eyes on the corpses snap open. Stumbling to their feet, they sway slightly; awaiting orders.

The hall is stunned silent. Here's proof before their eyes that Wei Wuxian has the power to control fierce corpses without effort. Aside from his madman act, his mind is clear and functioning at a high capacity. Everything they knew about demonic cultivation is being challenged as they continue to spend time with the demonic cultivator.

Finally finding her voice Yu Ziyuan screams, "WEI WUXIAN! YOU-!" Liu Rushi quickly pulls Yu Ziyuan to sit back down. Whispering to her in low tones.

Nie Huaisang, "Did... did he just..."

Jin Ling, "WHAT?!?!?!?! THAT'S IT?????" Turning to fully face Wei Wuxian while his arm points to the white cloth in question.

Ouyang Zizhen, "Wait. Wait. WAIT! Just two words?"

Lan Jingyi, "No blood drawing or complicated spell? You just... speak and... they do?" Arms flailing wildly as he gestured as if that would explain what "do" encompasses.

Wei Wuxian, "Ah... it is if you're me. Demonic cultivation in itself is difficult and harmful to master if you do not know what you're doing. This is a topic we can discuss once we're back in our time. It's not a topic for... current company." His eyes flicker to Jin Guangshan to drive the point home. Catching his meaning, the boys bowed and returned to their seats.

Lan Qiren looked thoughtfully at Wei Wuxian. "From your reactions, has Wei Wuxian not explained his cultivation method to you?" 'Is he not teaching them his tricks?'

Lan Sizhui stood to answer Lan Qiren, "Wei-qianbei has explained the general common knowledge such as controlling the resentful energies with Chenqing and his talismans. As much as we ask, Wei-qianbei refuses to explain in further detail on topics he deems unsafe or harmful to others. Aside from a classroom setting or a teaching moment, Wei-qianbei does not speak about demonic cultivation. Though there are many who claim to be his disciples, Wei-qianbei refuses to teach anyone how to cultivate with resentful energy. This is the first time we've seen Wei-qianbei actually awakening a corpse. He will only do it if the situation is dire enough."

Jin Ling, "Any demonic cultivators we run into are given the Yiling Laozu dressing down before they are shipped off to the Cloud Recesses for healing or to Lotus Pier for rehabilitation."

Yu Ziyuan, "Rehabilitation?" Jiang Fengmian, also curious, looks to his older sons.

Jiang Wanyin, "In the years that Wei Wuxian was gone, I gained a reputation for hunting down and torturing demonic cultivators. In truth, only those who are beyond redemption and those who refuse to repent for their deeds are executed. Those willing and able to give up demonic cultivation are given resources and land to work so they can make a comfortable living. Those with... potential and aptitude... are sent to Qinghe."

"Qinghe? Why Qinghe?" Nie Mingjue asked. He was curious how his brother would run the sect after he was gone. The boy never liked to learn how to properly use his saber and wanted nothing to do with clan politics. Choosing to play with his fans, paints, and birds.

The Head Shaker, "I train and maintain the largest information network known to the cultivation world. Those sent to me are vetted and given training and jobs according to their abilities."

Wei Wuxian, "To put it bluntly, he has spies everywhere. If it happens, he will know about it before you do. Qinghe isn't the richest Great Sect for nothing, Nie-zongzhu." Wei Wuxian catches Nie Mingjue's eyes and gives him a smile, "I've told him many times you would be proud of his efforts and accomplishments." Although his words were said with a smile, there was an undercurrent of a warning. 'Don't give Huaisang reason to doubt those words.'

Nie Mingjue, "Though I am determined to stick around for a long time, It is comforting to know Qinghe will be in good hands. My brothers have good friends who support him. I'm excited to see what plans you have for the future, Huaisang."

Viewers are thrown for a shock when they find themselves in a dim dungeon. A figure with long black hair is slumped in a kneeling position on the ground. Thick chains welded to the walls are clamped on its arms, legs, neck, and torso; preventing it from moving even an inch. Hair had fallen to cover its face.

"Still Sleeping?" , Wei Wuxian's call filters through the air. The chains begin to rattle as the figure shakes its head to the side as if trying to listen for more instructions. Dislodging the hair that had fallen on the right side of its face. Unfocused white pupils stare back at the viewers as its head is lifted to reveal the figure's identity, Wen Qionglin.

Wen Qing stares up at the image of her brother chained up like a beast. Anger wells up inside her as she continues to watch.

From Wei Wuxian's tense shoulders, the time travelers knew he was barely holding his anger in check. They knew Wen Qionglin was locked up by Jin Guangshan for 13 years but Wen Qionglin hadn't been aware of his surroundings to know what had happened to him.

Wei Wuxian spoke again in a commanding voice, "Do you see the left arm on your Mom?"

Heads slowly turned to where Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi were battling Mo-furen.

"Tear it apart."

Blurs fly past Lan Jingyi as he is thrown back by the arm. Coming to a stop before Lan Sizhui, both boys looked up as the winds cleared. Their eyes widened in excitement as they were greeted with a rare sight.

Lan Jingyi, "Zombie fight?! Never seen this before!"

Neither had anyone else from the past. Sure, they've fought fierce corpses themselves but never a zombie fight. It was quite brutal and exciting.

The arm tears through A-Tong's corpse and Mo-furen lunges towards the Lan boys when a single guqin note rings out. The spiritual energy behind that note stops Mo-furen's corpse in its track. A second strum pins it to the ground.

Lan Wangji floats above the roof on his sword. Hands on the guqin in front of him, strumming the notes of Eradication.

"Hanguang-jun!" the boys shouted. Never mind the rule on Being discourteous and loud is harmful.

Lan Qiren, "Lan Sizhui. Lan Jingy. 100 copies each."

Collapsing further into his seat, Lan Jingyi cried, "hhhhhaaaaa????"

Lan Sizhui, "I beg your pardon, Lan-xiansheng. This disciple wanted to verify our punishment. You want us to copy the rules 100 times each?"

Not understanding the Lan disciples' stress, Lan Qiren inquired, "Is copying the rules 100 times something that distressing to a Gusu Lan disciple?"

Lan Wangji, "Shufu, Disciples now copy rules in a handstand. 100 copies will be cruel."

Lan Qiren, "I see. In that case, 20 copies each. You must maintain composure no matter the situation."

"Yes, Lan-xiansheng."

'It's him!'

From his hiding place behind a column, Wei Wuxian drinks in Lan Wangji's appearance. After so many years he has grown more handsome. Any trace of baby fat that clung to his cheeks at fifteen is now long gone.

'Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan. Still wearing those mourning clothes.'

Lan Qiren, "MOURNING CLOTHES!!! WEI WUXIAN!!! YOU!!!!"

Lan Xichen, "Shufu, I'm sure Wei-gongzi never intended to say those words out loud. If you think about the irony, he's now wearing said robes."

Chuckling sheepishly, Wei Wuxian rubs the back of his neck.

'Ah... I still love him like I did when I Was 15.'  With a sad smile, Wei Wuxian turned tail and ran. 'I have to get out of here before he sees me and tries to punish me!'

Lan Sizhui briefs Lan Wangji of what had occurred at the manor before his arrival. About Mo-gongzi using demonic cultivation to help them throughout the night only to disappear in the excitement of Hanguang-jun's arrival. Lan Wangji catches movement in the corner of his eye and gives chase. He stops when he lands in the middle of an empty street. Looking around with hopeful eyes after 13 years.

'Wei Ying, is it really you?'

Chapter Text

'A nightmare.' That's what this has to be right? A nightmare. The ones where your biggest fears give you hope only to smash it to bits. Lan Zhan is looking at him. Lan Zhan whose face is always devoid of expression. Whose eyes betrays his deep feelings. Staring at him as if Wei Wuxian has sprouted an extra head. His heart shatters. 'It hurts.'

Something must have shown on Lan Zhan's face because hurt flashed in Wei Ying's eyes as he turned away from him. Lan Zhan doesn't like it. Doesn't like whatever conclusion Wei Ying's mind supplied him. He has to fix it.

"Wei Ying..."

"WEI WUXIAN! Please tell me I'm not hearing what I think I'm hearing." bellowed Jiang Wanyin; startling Wei Ying. "Not you! The older, more stupid you!"

"That depends on what it is you think you're hearing." snaps an irritated Wei Wuxian. He could recognize the look on Wei Ying's face and the direction his thoughts were heading to. Lan Zhan had seen it too and was about to address it when Chengcheng started shouting. The angry grape.

Jiang Wanyin, "You mean to tell me that you and that shameless, petty, and sorry excuse of a brother-in-law of mine have both been stupidly and I do mean STUPIDLY in love with each other since you were 15?"

Lan Zhan's unfocused eyes are staring into the middle distance as his brain repeats 'Wei Ying loves me. Wei Ying! Wei Ying... loves me!' on loop.

Curiosity got the better of the younger boys so they added up the years.

Ouyang Zizhen, "They met at 15. Senior Wei died when he was 21? 22?." Several stiffened at the reminder.

Lan Sizhui, "21."

Lan Jingy, "That's 6 years. He was resurrected 13 years later."

Jin Ling, "19 years?!?!?!"

Jiang Cheng, "You were pining for Lan Wangji for almost two decades like a love sick maiden?!? What the hell, Wei Wuxian!"

Blushing furiously as all eyes turn to them in surprise, Wei Wuxian weakly objected, "HEY! I was dead for 13 of those years! You didn't have to put it like that..."

The reminder that Wei Wuxian was dead for 13 years jolted Lan Zhan back to reality. Grabbing Wei Ying's hand, Lan Zhan tried to get his attention again. "Wei Ying."

Jiang Wanyin is so done.

Jiang Wanyin, "Oi, baby Wei Wuxian! For a genius, you're stupid. Lan Wangji willingly tied your wrists together with the Lan forehead ribbon. That means you're engaged. Bowing to an ancestor right afterwards means you're married. Congratulations, you and Lan Wangji have been married since 15."

'MARRIED?!?!!?' Wei Ying gapes at Jiang Wanyin like he just told him he's not allowed to pick lotus seeds anymore. Jiang Wanyin plops back down in his seat next to Jin Ling, arms crossed.

Lan Xichen's eyes study Lan Zhan, who seems to be growing more frustrated at being interupted. Trying to place when this event would have happened. The boys had gone missing for a day after he had sent Wei Wuxian to the Cold Pond to heal. 'Was that when it happened?'

Lan Qiren looked like he wanted to Qi deviate and descend to the high heavens. Face turning a purple that can rival Sect Leader Jiang's dark purple robes.

Uncaring of the dilema he just started, Jiang Wanyin continues on, "You can now skip to year 19 of your stupid pining and profess your grand love. And look! Jin Guangyao's not even here holding a wire to your throat this time! You're welcome."

"SHIJIEEE! Chengcheng is picking on your Xianxian!" whined Wei Ying as he turned to Jiang Yanli causing her to giggle.

Suddenly, Wei Ying is gently pulling his hand free from Lan Zhan's grip. Desperation begins to claw its way up his chest so Lan Zhan gave a yank on their joined hands for Wei Ying's attention. Feeling a yank on his hand, Wei Ying spins back to look at Lan Zhan.

The momentum of both movements propelled Wei Ying into Lan Zhan's chest and their lips met. Eyes widening and cheeks flushed. Lan Zhan's free hand grips Wei Ying's hip and instinctively pulls him closer.

"FINALLY!!" the whole hall erupts in cheers and laughter.

At the show of impropriety, Madam Yu screams, "WEI WUXIAN!!! HAVE YOU NO THOUGHT FOR YUNMENG JIANG'S REPUTATION?!?!?!?"

"LAN WANGJI!!!! WEI WUXIAN!!! HOW DARE YOU BEHAVE SO... SO...! SHAMELESS. UNRULY-" a pruple faced Lan Qiren begins to shout.

"Causing noise is prohibited. Do not succumb to rage. Do not disrespect the younger. Do not make assumptions about others. Do not insult people. Harmony is the value. Be careful with your words. Maintain your own discipline. Shufu, please remember yourself and the disciplines of Gusu Lan." intones Lan Wangji over the screaming of the elders, effectively silencing the hall.

When Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen turn in surprise towards Lan Wangji, the time travelers bow their heads to hide their smiles. Hanguang-Jun only ever adopted this demeanor when he has to deal with Sect Leader Yao these days.

Wei Ying and Lan Zhan pull apart. Wei Ying covers face with his hands to hide his warm cheeks. A smile blooms on Lan Zhan's face as he watches. Wei Ying spins on his heels and ran to hide behind Jiang Yanli's seat. Grey eyes peeked out from behind her back. Finding Lan Zhan still looking his way, Wei Ying hides his face between her shoulder blades. 'Cute.'

The meek voice of Nie Huaisang breaks through the stunned silence. "Perhaps we should return to the viewing?"

Returning to their seats, the cultivators once again turned their attention to the white cloth. Wei Ying still hiding behind Jiang Yanli.

The boys continue snickering and laughing at his reaction. Their Senior Wei may put on an act of being shameless but genuine affection given to him always flusters him.

Wei Wuxian runs across the courtyard after destroying evidence of the array from the room. Coming to a stop at the stables, he finds the donkey he had said hi to earlier as a madman tied up to a trough. Excitement shows in his face as he mounts the donkey and pulls her reins.

Except...

The donkey only stares at the crazy man on its back while it chewed on its hay. Unimpressed and in no hurry to move.

Once again, laughter fills the hall at Wei Wuxian's struggle with the donkey.

The scenery changes to lush trees lining the road that leads to a mountain shaped like a Buddha resting. Wei Wuxian sits near a well but moves to the side when rogue cultivators seemed reluctant to come by to refill their skeins. Suspicious of the mask on his face that he'd picked up along the way to help make his madman identity more believable.

One of the men walks around holding out a compass. "So weird. The arrows are not even moving and we're so close to Dafan Mountain already."

'Compass?'

His friend stands from the well and hands him his water skein. "Maybe your compass is broken. Buy a new one before going on more night hunts. We're about 10 miles out from Dafan Mountain so we can't rest for too long otherwise there will be nothing left for us."

Overhearing their conversation,  Wei Wuxian inquired, "Excuse me! Is there something in Dafan Mountain?"

The men look over at him like they just noticed he was there. The second cultivator looked him over before he answered. "You probably didn't know Dafan Mountain was once blessed and boasted a spiritual spring but it for some reason it declined. Recently there are rumors of soul-eaters taking several souls."

"No. I don't think so. There's probably no monsters here. See? The compass' arrows have yet to move!"

Intrigued by another money venture, Jin Guangshan summarized, "A compass that that's meant to point out monsters?"

Lan Qiren hums thoughtfully, "It does seem to be very useful."

"Do you have one with you so that we may take a look at it?" Jin Guangshan asked the young boys.

All four look at him straight-faced and none answers him.

Wei Wuxian cackles and turns to Jiang Wanyin, "Look A-Cheng, Lan Zhan's been rubbing off on them!" Jiang Wanyin only rolls his eyes. Neither reprimanding the boys for their disrespect to Sect Leader Jin.

Wei Wuxian backed away as the two cultivators began bickering.  Sometimes you get more information just by listening to people talk.

"Then why are there people exhibiting soul-less symptoms? Maybe your compass is broken."

"Impossible! You know who created this compass?"

"What are you implying? Of course I know! Wei Wuxian's crafts are not all perfect. Is his stuff infallible?"

"That's not what I meant. I never said his stuff are all perfect. Don't put words in my mouth!"

"His inventions aren't all fool-proof."

"I've used this for years! Never has it failed me!"

"You've got a lot of faith in him, don't you? What, is he your dad or something?"

"He is my idol!"

Having been thoroughly ignored, Wei Wuxian leads Lil' Apple away.

"Another invention, A-Xian?" Jiang Fengmian asked. The boy was known to think of ideas to improve on everyday things but he had never actually produced any tools of note.

Wei Wuxian, "It was something I tinkered with while at the Burial Mounds. I only made a basic prototype before.. before everything went downhill."

Jin Ling, "The Compass was one of many things Lanlin Jin commandeered."

A young woman runs up the mountain. At the top, she suddenly stops as she looked out towards a cave from the nearby mountain. Suddenly, as if pulled her body Jenks forward and she starts to dance and contort her body.

Once done, she contort her body into a final pose. Right leg bent and lifted in towards her left leg. Left arm lifted and bent towards her face while her right is lifted above and bent away from her head. The view pans around her to show Wei Wuxian standing to the side looking worried.

Behind him an elder female is running towards the young woman and desperately her name. "A-Yan!! Please stop dancing!"

They are brought to a forest where the sounds of a donkey in distress filled the hall. The scene changed to show numerous spirit binding nets littered the forest. Several had people and the most prominent one had a donkey thrashing about in it.

Recognizing the scene, Jin Ling slunk down in his seat to look less conspicuous. A-Niang's going to kill me if Jiujiu doesn't get to me first.

Staring up from the ground with hands on his hips was Wei Wuxian. 'A spirit net! Never thought I'd see one somewhere this remote. Must be someone rich... there's so many of them!'

"Don't worry, Lil Apple! I'll find a spiritual sword to cut you down." Wei Wuxuan shouted at the donkey. The sounds of footsteps running warned him there was someone approaching so he hid behind a tree.

A young man dressed in the golden robes of Lanling Jin sprints through the forest. Bow in hand, he approached the net ready to tackle a creature, to be met with... a donkey.

"What?! A donkey?! Over 400 spirit nets and not even a ghost. A handful of no-clan losers and a stupid donkey!"

"A-Ling." Jiang Yanli frowned at her future son's tone. From behind her, Wei Ying looked between Jin Ling and Jiang Wanyin. Realization dawned on Wei Ying as he shot up from his hiding spot, "OH MY GOD! You're Jiang Cheng's personality in the Peacock's body! No, no.... that won't do. Big me! You need to intervene!"

Laughing loudly, Wei Wuxian shakes his head. "It's too late for that! He's doomed to follow in their footsteps. But don't worry! Deep down, he secretly has Jiang Yanli's heart and kindness. He doesn't show it often since he's inherited the emotional constipation."

Jin Zixuan, "Hey!! There's nothing wrong with my emotions!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Says the man who kept insulting his future wife when he's secretly in love with her. So yes... you are emotionally constipated."

Wei Wuxian shot Jiang Wanyin an unimpressed look while still facing Jin Zixuan, "Pot... meet kettle." Earning him an offended "HEY!!" from both parties.

"Lan Zhan!" Wei Ying ran back to his seat to grab Lan Zhan's arm. "You have to help me! Look at the great job you did with Sizhui! We can't let Jin Ling turn out like the Peacock!"

Happy to have Wei Ying next to him again, Lan Zhan grabbed his hand and nodded. "Mn, will teach with Wei Ying." Heart flipping as Wei Ying gives him the brightest smile and then shyly lay his head on Lan Zhan's shoulder.

Recognizing the insignia on his robes, Wei Wuxian thought, 'Jin Clan of Lanling. Rich indeed. Just my luck to run into Gusu Lan and Lanling Jin.'

Jin Ling sneered at Wei Wuxian when he became fed up with his presence. "Get the hell out of my sight you disgusting lunatic!"

'This kid needs to be taught a lesson.' Wei Wuxian called after Jin Ling as the boy walked away, "I'm still your senior! Is that how your mother taught you to behave?"

"What did you just say?!?!?!" Jin Ling whirred around and attacked with his sword drawn.

Easily dodging the attack, Wei Wuxian activated a talisman before placing it on Jin Ling's back. The talisman released a gluttonous spirit that expanded twice its size before falling on top of Jin Ling, pinning him to the ground.

"Lost before you could even start..." tsks Lan Jingyi.

Sighing, Jiang Yanli shakes her head in fondness and motions for him to join her. "A-Ling. No matter the words that are being said, you shouldn't attack people. You can solve more with words than violence."

Chastised, Jin Ling bowed his head. "Yes, A-Niang."

Jiang Yanli gives him a hug before pulling him into the seat between herself and Jin Zixuan. Jin Zixuan studied his future son. The boy seems to have grown into a man more settled with himself. It was obvious the boy loved his uncles. "if you'd like... we can spar at the back of the hall when there is a free moment."

Surprised, Jin Ling nods and smiles. Excited at the idea of finally being able to spar with his dad.

Kicking and struggling on the ground, Jin Ling cursed at Wei Wuxian. "Mo Xuanyu, you've really gone insane! Daring to study the dark arts? Let me up! You're a dead man when I tell my uncle about this!"

Crouching down to get a closer look at Jin Ling, Wei Wuxian prodded, "Uncle? Why not your father? Who is your uncle?"

"I'm his uncle." a familiar deep voice cut through the night. Purple robes stepped into the clearing as the moonlight reflected on a Clarity Bell. "Any last words?"

Jiang Cheng couldn't take his eyes off his older self on the cloth. Sure he looked older but he also looked angry. Very angry.

Wei Ying stood up to take a closer look. "Jiang Cheng! How dramatic you've become!  'Any last words?', look at that entrance!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Shut up!"

The viewers are taken along the river where Wei Wuxian is at the river bank splashing his face. Voices of the released rogue cultivators float to where he sat.

"Wei Wuxian is a monster!"

"Jiang Yanli treated him like her own brother! She believed in the wrong person!"

Carp Tower comes into view as two figures stand in front of a large golden window. Their golden robes blended in with the light spilling in from the window. A baby cradled between them. Jin Zixuan dangles his sword's tassle above the child as it reaches for it. Jiang Yanli smiles softly as she hugs the baby to herself.

Jin Ling's eyes were glued to the scene before him. His parents doting on him as in infant. The years old ache and pain in his heart returns ten-fold. Warm arms wrap around him and he takes his eyes away to find his parents with their arms wrapped around him.

They're at the bottom of a hill. Standing above are hundreds of golden robes of Lanling Jin and several white robes of Gusu Lan. Archers line the edge of the hill all aimed at two lone figures walking in the valley below.

Nie Mingjue, "An ambush?"

Lan Xichen frowned at the amount of Lans on the hill. They were either there with his or the elders' permission. That was concerning.

An arrow is fired, unprovoked, but is caught by the Wen Qionglin. A man in golden robes stands before Wei Wuxian throwing insults towards Wei Wuxian. He picks up a box from the ground and sneers at it. "You think you have the right to give Lanling Jin's next heir a present? Remove the curse, demon!"

Wei Wuxian, angered and annoyed, shouted back "Who are you to tell me that when I was invited to the celebration for my nephew? I think you have a bigger problem on your hands. Focus on finding who cursed you because I did not curse you."

The box is crushed along with the bracelet inside it. Angered, Wei Wuxian, "YOU!"

Jiang Cheng, "Who's the asshole insulting Wei Wuxian?!?"

Speechless and confused, Jin Zixuan answered, "My cousin, Jin Zixun. What...?"

Jin Ling turned watery eyes to Wei Wuxian. "You... you brought me a gift? and that... THAT BASTARD... he destroyed it." Wei Wuxian gave him a sad smile.

Lan Sizhui held in his anger as he turned to a surprised Lan Wangji, "Are those Lans there on Sect Leader Lan's permission or the elders? History texts seems to have left out that LANS were at the ambush too!"

Lan Wangji had a hard glint in his eye. Wei Wuxian was Lan Wangji's bottom line. No one hurts his Wei Ying and leaves unscathed. He committed the faces of those Lans to memory for when they returned. "Jingyi, keep record."

Lan Jingyi, who had already began to memorize their faces, smirked, "Yes, Hanguang-jun."

Another set of golden robes moves forward to reach Wei Wuxian. A fist punches through golden robes. A white pupiled feral Wen Qionglin stood slightly in front of Wei Wuxian. Arm dripping in blood.

Wei Wuxian's angry expression morphs to shock, horror, and finally devastation as Jin Zixuan collapses to the ground. "A-Li's still waiting for you-"

"A-XUAN!" came Madam Jin's anguished cry. Those in the hall had to look away from the scene.

The family of three froze in their seats. Although it was never outright spoken of, Jin Zixuan knew that he had died. To have confirmation... it was jarring.

Growing up, Jin Ling had always been told that the Ghost General had been commanded by Wei Wuxian to kill his father. The truth about Qiongqi Path came out when Wei Wuxian returned, however, no one knew all the details. He blamed Wen Qionglin for his father's death for years until recently when he decided to let the anger go.

Nightless City looms in front of them. The clans are vowing to kill Wei Wuxian and scatter his ashes. Chilling laughter rings out as the clans turn towards the roof. Wei Wuxian sits on the rooftop twirling his dizi. "Wei Ying! Today you will answer for killing my son and nephew!" Jin Guangshan shouts.

Jin Zixuan sits confused at what he's seeing. "But... my death was an accident. Wen Qionglin was defending Wei Wuxian."

Madam Jin eyes her husband with unconcealed hatred. "It wouldn't matter. If it meant he got what he wanted, your death would serve only as an excuse to rile up the rest of the cultivation world against Wei Wuxian. Isn't that right, Sect Leader Jin?"

Scoffing, Jin Guangshan chose not to answer. Whatever it was his future self was willing to sacrifice his heir for, he will find out.

Wei Wuxian laughs, "Who was the one who said if Wen Ning and Wen Qing surrendered to Carp Tower that all matters would be let go? Whose ashes did you just scatter? Now, who's the one who said they will lay siege to the Burial Mounds?"

Hearing their names, the Wen siblings looked to Wei Wuxian for an explanation.  He only shook his head and mouthed Later.

Lan Xichen frowned at the words.

An arrow is shot, once again unprovoked, this time it pierces his chest. Barely missing his heart. Wei Wuxian looks down to find the shooter, a Jin disciple lowering his bow, as he pulls the arrow free from his chest.

Jiang Fengmian is on his feet and turning to face Jin Guangshan. "Is this how Lanling Jin disciples are trained? To attack others unprovoked?  That is twice now that A-Xian has been shot at without warning. I am honestly reconsidering the alliance between our clans."

"Jiang-xiong. Come now, you would let a servant come between our decades long alliance?" Jin Guangshan asked placatingly.

Having grown tired of the very same insults being thrown at his brother, Jiang Cheng stood next to his father. "Wei Wuxian is my brother in all but blood and the Head Disciple of Yunmeng Jiang. He is no servant."

Jin Guangshan scoffs again and turns back to watching the scene.

Jiang Fengmian narrowed his eyes at the insult to his son. "Yunmeng Jiang will not ally with those without morals."

The arrow is thrown back at the Jin disciple with deadly accuracy. It pierces his heart. "WEI WUXIAN! YOU DEMON! You dare to kill indiscriminately?"

To that, Wei Wuxian laughs. "I see. You are allowed to attack me with no repercussions. But when I defend myself, I am a demon killing indiscriminately?"

"A-XIAN!!"

"Shijie??? What is she doing on a battlefield?!?!" A frantic Wei Wuxian puts away his dizi to look for his shijie.

Never EVER run into a battlefield.

Jiang Yanli, dressed in mourning robes, lay in Jiang Wanyin's arms. Bloody slash down her back. Wei Wuxian, finally at her side, kneels before her.

"No!"

Wei Ying shoots to his feet, eyes unmoving from the Jiang Yanli on the screen. "Shijie!"

"I thought you said you could control it!" Jiang Wanyin screams at him.

"This isn't me! I've stopped already!" Wei Wuxian shouts back.

Jiang Yanli notices movement behind Wei Wuxian. Eyes widen in alarm as she pushed Wei Wuxian to the side. A silver blade pierces through Jiang Yanli's throat.

Never try to take a blow for me again. 

"SHIJIE!"
"A-JIE!"
"A-LI!"
"A-LI!"
"A-NIANG!"

"WEI WUXIAN! You ungrateful monster! Jiang Yanli treated you like her brother and you still killed her!"

The world goes dark.

"I feel so sorry for her child. Orphaned at only 1 month old."

Jiang Fengmian and Yu Ziyuan slowly lowers themselves back into their seats. Not able to trust their legs to hold them up any longer.

Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying are collapsed on their knees. Nie Huaisang came to support Jiang Cheng into a chair as Lan Zhan does the same for Wei Ying as he numbly stares forward.

Lan Qiren watched Lan Wangji stroke his husband's back as the boy relives the worst night of his life. Jiang Wanyin was not looking any better. The younger boys looked as though they would skin every cultivator in this room if given the chance.

Lan Qiren doesn't blame them. The sheer injustice of what was shown made him sick.

'How could I say such a thing to him? How could I...'

The already distraught cultivators flinched when the sound of a slap broke through the thick atmosphere.  On the cloth, Wei Wuxian had raised a hand and slapped himself for his words towards his nephew.

Shock and sadness shook his body when he looked at his uncle. "Da-jiu... please. Don't hurt yourself anymore. You've already apologized and I've already forgiven you."

Lan Xichen, "Why don't we take a short break? Perhaps there will be tea?"

As if by magic, pots of tea and tea cups appeared on the table in front.

Hidden by the shadows, a man in red leans against the wall. "Gege, are you sure I can't just feed him to one of the ghosts?"

"A-Ying can handle himself." Giggled the man next to him.

Chapter Text

Black boots casually land on a stone pathway. Unhurried yet steadily approaching its destination. As it approaches a room, hands clench around a scroll before entering. Seated at the table are two figures in an animated discussion.

Chapter Text

"A mere servant and a clanless nobody dares to threaten and attack a Sect Leader. Lanling Jin will bury you! No matter how brave you are, there will be repercussions!" Jin Guangshan screamed.

Chapter Text

Looking at the array, Hua Cheng realized what this opportunity presented. What they can finally do to help A-Ying.

Sitting up, he asks, "If this array is meant to do what we think, then... couldn't we build on this and make sure that A-Ying gets the life he deserves with all the loved ones he's lost? The ground work is already there."

Chapter Text

"I..." Lan Qiren struggled to speak. His throat was sore and his neck bruised.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying are immediately on their feet as their eyes fall on their grandmother. The woman of legend. One that had always been a dream of theirs to meet. She's here! Sharing excited glances with their beloveds, the boys move to greet her. In his excitement, Wei Ying stumbles and is saved from embarrassing himself by Lan Zhan's grip on his forearm. Eyes never leaving her for more than a few seconds, Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying bowed low to greet their grandmother.

Chapter Text

Pebbles crunch under white boots as it makes its way towards the Hanshi. A knock on the door pulls Lan Xichen from his meditation.

Chapter Text

"Perhaps we should take a break?" Suggested Nie Huaisang as he eyes Meng Yao on the ground.

Chapter Text

The scene focuses on the robes of the Lan disciple holding the discipline ruler as he lifts the ruler to strike. Only to zoom out seconds later as a disciple whip slashes across white inner robes. Red blooms across the slash, soaking the robes.

Chapter Text

Movement on the ground drew the attention of the viewers away from the cloth and to the figures laying on the floor.

Hua Cheng, "Look who's decided to join us."

Meng Yao was the first to regain consciousness followed by Jin Zixun and Su She. The three were confused how they got there until they remembered what happened right before they were knocked out by the unknown men.

Scanning the hall, Meng Yao's eyes landed on his father first then moved to Jin Zixuan. The older time travelers observed as longing crossed Meng Yao’s face followed by jealousy, anger, and hatred in rapid succession. It was quickly covered up with a false smile, however, when he noticed that he was being observed. 

Decades of "what if" scenarios that played in Zewu-jun's mind came back to the surface. What if he had been more aware of Meng Yao's struggles? What if he had convinced him that Jin Guangshan's approval had no bearing on their brotherhood? What if he had shown Meng Yao that his father was only using him to further his agenda? 

Suddenly everything seemed irrelevant in that unguarded moment Zewu-jun and the others had just witnessed. No matter what he chose to do, Meng Yao would still continue down his destructive and deadly path. The last knot in Zewu-jun's heart finally untangled and eased from its grief.

Meng Yao stood to join Nie-zongzhu but was suddenly blocked by a fan held up against his throat.

"Huaisang!" shouted Lan Xichen as he rushed forward to assist Meng Yao. An arm holding Liebing halted his path. Shocked, Lan Xichen turned to question Zewu-jun but the look of deep loss and resignation on the man stopped him cold. 

"N-Nie Er-gongzi? Zewu-jun?" Meng Yao asked, confused.

Not bothering to hide his anger, The Head Shaker hissed, "It took me 13 years to expose your evil deeds and bring about your demise in my time. This time, Da-ge and Xiao Huaisang will know EXACTLY what you are capable of and how far you're willing to go for that man whore father of yours! I will end your miserable life myself if you EVER plot to hurt anyone related to Qinghe Nie or Wei Wuxian again. I don’t care what the circumstances are. I WILL END YOU!"

Meng Yao recoiled from the venom in the always-gentle Nie Huaisang’s voice. He looked to Nie Mingjue for an explanation only to be met with his darkened angry face and Nie Huaisang’s horrified one. Numbly, he replied, “I don’t understand...Nie-zongzhu, Nie Er-gongzi, have I done something wrong?”

Nie Mingjue stared at Meng Yao for a moment before replying, “We’ve been brought here to view past and future events. It seems we’ve been joined by a couple people from the future and… Immortal Beings. Baoshan Sanren, Martial Gods, and Ghost Kings to be exact. It has been quite enlightening.”

“Future?” Meng Yao whispered, mind already running through all possible scenarios that could lead to such hostility from Nie Huaisang towards him. Nie Mingjue was Nie Huaisang's bottom line. He must have unforgivably hurt them in this supposed future.

“Zixuan?” Jin Zixun got to his feet. As his eyes landed on He Xuan, however, he reached to unsheathe his sword. “YOU! How dare you attack a Lanling Jin disciple! Do you know who I am?”

He Xuan turned unimpressed eyes on Jin Zixun as Hua Cheng led Xie Lian back to their seats. The Martial Gods shook their heads at Jin Zixun’s idiocy and they also returned to their seats.

“Stop, Zixun!” Jin Zixuan jumped to his feet to try to stop his cousin from attacking the Ghost King but it was too late. The cultivators flinched in sympathy when a pained scream ripped through the hall. Jin Zixun clutched his broken fingers to his chest as his sword flew from his hand and embedded itself into his shoulder with enough force to pin him to the wall.

Su She, who was standing between Meng Yao and Jin Zixun, threw his sword to the side and scrambled to the ground in fear. Crawling over to where the Lans were standing, Su She looked to them for protection. That was when he realized there were two sets of Lans standing before him. 

The older nephew and uncle duo looked down at Su She with disgust and hatred as the younger two seemed to be having a silent conversion. For a moment, a familiar indignation flared in Su She's chest. These Lans dared to look down on him just like Lan Wangji always did. One day, he will show them who is better and he will knock them down from their pedestals.

Wen Qing instinctively made to go check on the injury but is stopped at Wen Qionglin’s head shake. The hatred and anger clearly etched on his face reminded the Wen siblings of what they were shown of the labor camps, that Jin Zixun was one of the guilty perpetrators. That he was the one who killed her brother. Wen Qing sat back down and resolutely ignored the man’s pained cries. It was then that she swore that Jin Guangshan and his lackeys would be getting no help from her.

Lan Wangji ran up the steps as three fierce corpses gave chase. Halfway up the steps, Lan Wangji spun on the ball of his foot to break off a flowering branch. Lan Wangji infused spiritual energy into the branch before attacking a nearby fierce corpse and throwing the corpse several feet backwards. More fierce corpses replaced the beaten corpse to attack.

The incident had been forgotten in the wake of the fight between Wei Wuxian and Jin Zixuan. Lan Qiren puzzled,“How did they escape from the Mingshi?”

Lan Xichen eyed Su She before he answered, “The disciple on guard was… distracted when the corpses broke free. They spent a good amount of time looking for Wangji and Wei-gongzi after that with Jiang-gongzi.” 

Lan Qiren caught Lan Xichen’s eye movement and asked even though he suspected what the answer was going to be, “Which disciple was it?”

Color had drained from Su She’s face when he realized they were being shown things that happened in the past. He was the disciple on guard that night the fierce corpses broke free. He had spent a good portion of the night complaining to a fellow Lan disciple about Lan Wangji's arrogance and disdain for others that he had not paid attention to the Mingshi’s wards.

Lan Xichen, "Su Mingshan."

Looking at the faces of the other cultivators in the hall, Su She realized they already knew what he did when they faced the Waterborne Abyss that day. That he intentionally put Wei Wuxian in danger to save himself. And now, because of a moment of distraction, he's under scrutiny again.

Deciding it was best to lay low and not draw any more attention to himself, Su She withdrew to the back seats. 

“Lan Er-gongzi, your guqin!” His guqin, Wangji, was thrown his way. Jumping over the fierce corpses’ heads to catch his guqin. With one strum, he knocked all the fierce corpses down to be subdued.

Jiang Wanyin came up to Lan Wangji when he noticed Wei Wuxian was not with him, “Where is Wei Wuxian?”

“We got separated.” replied Lan Wangji. He had lost sight of Wei Wuxian once they were initially set upon by the fierce corpses.

Pei Ming, “Impressive... I look forward to when you join us.”

Standing, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian bowed to Pei Ming. “Wangji and Wei Ying will not disappoint.”

Both the older and younger Lan-xiansheng and Zewu-jun observed the exchange with confusion. Were the Gods expecting Wangji and Wei-gongzi to ascend and join them? Just how much has their cultivation advanced in the recent decade?

The scene shifts to several fierce corpses chasing a white robed figure through the woods. A tree branch is broken off and hurled towards a fierce corpse, hitting it directly on the forehead and slamming it against the tree.

Moving quickly, the white robed figure weaves through the trees before quickly rounding on the fierce corpses to fight off the corpses with his bare hands. It has been hours and his energy is beginning to flag.

Nie Mingjue, “How far in the back hills did he end up?”

Jiang Cheng, “I had climbed to higher ground for a better vantage point when I heard the tree crash. We were probably a little past the waterfall.”

Nie Mingjue, “That’s quite a distance to go on foot. I’m surprised he hasn’t collapsed yet.”

"They're still alive?" pondered Wei Wuxian as he tried to catch his breath. The corpses manage to pull themselves back up and let out a loud roar before once again attacking.

Dodging the fierce corpses attacks, Wei Wuxian took stock of his situation. "I can’t kill them all without my sword…" His thoughts trailed off as his attention grabbed by the corpses once again advancing on him. 

Xie Lian, “Ah… that reminds me. We haven’t finished your training A-Ying. Next time, bring your sword.”

Xie Lian and Hua Cheng’s eyes narrowed when Wei Wuxian nervously rubbed the back of his neck and gave Xie Lian a non-answer. Once again, he was deflecting when asked about his sword.

In an effort to get away, Wei Wuxian jumped up into a tall tree. Almost immediately, the corpses rocked against the tree to knock Wei Wuxian off or the tree down. A third fierce corpse jumped over the heads of those rocking the tree to climb towards Wei Wuxian.

Lan Xichen, “Why do these fierce corpses seem to move faster than normal?”

“I’ve found fierce corpses who are under control behave more fiercely and their attack speeds doubled and sometimes tripled depending on the corpse.”

Feeling began to return to Jin Guangshan’s limbs as time went on. Although the silencing spell was lifted for him to eat, it seemed that they forgot to recast it. Jin Guangshan decided to remain silent and unmoving to better observe Wei Wuxian. With such a stiff unfeeling husband like Lan Wangji, it won’t be long before he can entice Wei Wuxian to Lanling Jin with the promise of beautiful men and whatever he desires. Any weakness shown now will be the advantage he needed to get Wei Wuxian under his control.

The aggressive shaking of the tree caused it to tilt and begin to lift from the ground. Wei Wuxian jumped off the branch just before the fierce corpse reached him and landed below the tree. 

The tree finally gave way and fell over. All that the viewers saw was Wei Wuxian turning wide eyes towards the falling tree and it's shadow was fast approaching where Wei Wuxian stood.

The ground shook when the tree fell, kicking up dirt and dust.

Jiang Yanli, “A-XIAN!”

The viewers watched with dread even though Wei Wuxian was in front of them, alive and well. Lan Zhan hadn’t realized how dire Wei Wuxian’s situation was that night. They had met up in the end but aside from looking fatigued and suspiciously covered in resentful energy, he had looked fine and did not complain about any injuries.

Jiang Cheng smacked the upside of Wei Ying’s head, “You idiot! Of course you wouldn’t tell us you were injured. From now on, I’m forcing you to go to the healers after any night hunt no matter if you’re visibly hurt or not.”

The dust settled as Wei Wuxian’s vision cleared and he struggled to stand. The tree had knocked him down to the ground but was stopped from crashing to the ground by another tree. A movement near a downed tree caught Wei Wuxian’s attention. "A rabbit?"

The growling continued as the fierce corpses attacked again. Wei Wuxian made a last minute decision to scoop up the black rabbit and tucked it into the front of his robe. 

Mu Qing glanced at Wei Wuxian as if he’s just figured out a grand mystery, “Why do I feel like this is an indication of things to come?”

Pei Xiu agreed, "There's definitely a pattern emerging."

Sharp claws slashed his arm as sharp teeth advanced on an already tired out Wei Wuxian. Instinctively, he threw an arm out to protect his head and block the fierce corpse’s bite.

Lan Zhan fought the instinct to rush forward and block the bite for Wei Wuxian. Wei Ying's hand on his arm reminded him that this was a past memory. 

Shocked grey eyes opened when no bite came nor any other attacks. The killing intent drained from the fierce corpses as wisps of resentment were pulled from it and into Wei Wuxian’s outstretched arm. “Resentment?” 

The black wisps twined around his arm and proceeded to latch onto his skin and attacked his body. Black veins crawled up his arms, legs, and neck as Wei Wuxian collapsed on his knee from the pain that lanced through his body.

‘Again he’s exposed to resentful energy while on Gusu Lan territory.’ thought Lan Qiren. “Why was it only Wei Wuxian who was attacked by it again and again? It’s almost as if... Was Wei Wuxian being targeted by the resentful energy?” Lan Qiren questioned out loud.

“Think of it as an army. Individually, it will have no true objective. Which is what cultivators usually deal with. Once it has something to latch onto or a stronger voice amongst them directs them, then they become tenacious in their focus.” explained Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian clutched his chest as a golden orb flashed on the screen but soon it too was attacked by the resentful energies. The resentful energy surrounding him masked him and the fierce corpses simply walked past him.

Wen Qing immediately walked over to Wei Ying and wordlessly demanded his wrist to examine his golden core. Satisfied with what she saw, Wen Qing relayed, “There’s a small amount of resentful energy still around his golden core but it can easily be removed with Gusu Lan’s Cleansing.

Lan Zhan, “Will play for Wei Ying when we return.”

Wei Wuxian could easily remove the resentful energy but who’s he to come between his younger self and husband spending time together. Having expected Wei Wuxian to simply remove the resentful, Jiang Wanyin and Lan Wangji were surprised when he remained silent. That was… until he winked at Lan Wangji and stuck his tongue out at Jiang Wanyin.

Jiang Wanyin, “Pest.”

“Wei Wuxian! Your sword!” Jiang Wanyin flew towards his shixiong and threw Wei Wuxian his sword before landing to strike at the fierce corpses.

Looking up in time to see Suibian embed itself in the ground before him, Wei Wuxian stared at it with uncomprehending eyes. His body was still weak from exhaustion and the attack from the resentful energies.

“Wei-qianbei! If the resentful energy were this damaging with just a small amount… how did you manage it during the Sunshot Campaign?” asked an excited Lan Jingyi.

Curious, the past cultivators and Immortal Beings witnessed the older time travelers one by one looking anywhere but at Wei Wuxian.

Arousing further suspicion, Wei Wuxian eventually deflected, “It was a war… you make do.”

Noticing his shixiong hasn’t moved to grab his sword, “What? Are you too scared to hold your sword?”

Willing some energy into his arm, Wei Wuxian reached for his sword, “Non... Nonsense.”

Finally noticing something was off with his shixiong, Jian Wanyin’s eyes focused on the wisps for black resentful energy wrapped around his wrist. “You…”

Jiang Cheng, “Didn’t you promise not to go down that path? Like that encounter wasn’t enough to-”

Lan Wangji, “Enough, Jiang Wanyin!”

Jiang Wanyin, “It wasn’t a promise he could keep if you expected him to return from the Burial Mounds. Wei Wuxian finds his own way of keeping the promises that matter the most whether you like it or not. You will come to learn there is more than one way to keep a promise and not all promises can be kept. You all need to stop blaming him for things he has no control over. And he needs to stop taking the blame for everything.”

Speechless, Jiang Fengmian looked to his wife. Though in pain, her expression showed refusal and denial. His heart sinks as he comes to the realization that no matter what was said or done, his wife may never accept Wei Wuxian even after all this is over. There is much he will need to do if he doesn’t want to lose his adopted son and the last link to Wei Changze for good.

The strums of the guqin stopped the fierce corpses in its tracks announcing the arrival of Lan Wangji. Jiang Wanyin moved to stand in front of Wei Wuxian, covering his sword hand from Lan Wangji’s line of sight.

The scene shifts to Wei Wuxian chasing after Jiang Cheng as they walk through the Cloud Recesses. "Jiang Cheng! Why are you in such a hurry?"

Jiang Wanyin shrugged his shixiong off and huffed, "Wei Wuxian. You are familiar with Lan Wangji now. Why don't you join his clan and stay here at the Cloud Recesses? Don't come back to Lotus Pier."

Jiang Wanyin huffed sarcastically as Jin Ling laughed at his uncles’ antics, “Looks like I can predict the future too.”

Jiang Cheng contemplated his words. At the time he spoke out of anger and jealousy and thought Wei Wuxian understood like he always did. ‘Was his cheerfulness all an act? Was this the reason why Wei Wuxian left? Because I made him feel unwanted and unappreciated?’

Wei Wuxian threw an arm around his shidi again as they continued to walk, "What's wrong with you? Lotus Cove is much better. Only the three thousand family rules would finish me off. Let's go meet up with the rest!"

Lan Wangji is seated at a desk in front of the Library Pavilion’s window as he hears a creaking noise coming from the window. Within moments, Wei WuXian’s beaming face popped up outside the window. Climbing the magnolia tree outside of the Library Pavilion, Wei Wuxian jumped inside. “Lan Zhan, I’m back! Did you miss me?”

“He can’t miss you if you don’t go away, Wei-xiong!” teased Nie Huaisang to the amusement of the younger travelers. This gained him yet another pout from Wei Ying.

Lan Wangji returned to his task of copying texts without acknowledging him. Wei WuXian deliberately took his silence for agreement, “I know, even if you don’t say it, that you definitely missed me.”

Lan Jingyi grimaced, “Is he trying to flirt?”

Ouyang Zizhen, “This is painful to watch…”

Pulling Wei Wuxian from the window sill, Lan Wangji pushed him up against the wall before roughly claiming his lips. Wei Wuxian’s arms wrap themselves around Lan Wangji’s neck to pull him closer. In one fell swoop, Lan Wangji bent down to hook his arms under Wei Wuxian’s thighs and lifted him to straddle Lan Wangji’s hips. 

The younger boys quickly averted their eyes. They did not sign up for this…

This shift pushed their bodies closer and the friction between their groins sent pleasurable waves through their bodies. Unconsciously, Wei Wuxian wrapped his legs around Lan Wangji’s waist and moaned escaped from his lips as he grinds down.

Jin Ling, “Oh my God, someone make it stop!!!”

Lan Jingyi, “Sizhui! Stop covering my eyes, I swear I wasn’t looking!”

Unable to help himself, Wei Wuxian broke down laughing at his younger self’s flushed face. ‘This is nothing, Little Me. Just you wait… ahahahahaha.’

“Look at you, rising to the bait already!” Wei Wuxian teased from his perch on the window sill, smashing the fantasy. “You’re so easy to rile up.”

Lan Wangji fought to recompose himself and focus back on what was in front of him. Angry with himself for losing focus, Lan Wangji bit out a terse, “Leave."

The hall let out a collective breath. Though no longer surprising, the sudden switches in what was real and what was fantasy was still quite jarring.

Wei Wuxian, "And if I don’t leave, are you going to throw me down?"

The fantasy popped back into Lan Wangji’s mind at the other’s accurate taunting. Wei Wuxian appeared to have read something on Lan Wangji’s face when he added, “Don’t look like that! I’m here to apologize with a present!”

Feng Xin, “I’d be weary of presents from you, A-Ying…”

Shi Qingxuan, “Only if your name is Lan Wangji, Nan Yang.”

Needing the boy to leave him alone, Lan Wangji refused without thinking twice, "No."

Wei WuXian reached into his robe and pulled out two rabbits, one black and one white, to present to Lan Wangji, “Are you sure?”

Seeing the spark of interest in Lan Wangji’s eyes, Wei Wuxian explained, “I found the black one last night in the backwoods and it reminded me of the rabbits in the Cold Cave. I went back there and freed all the rabbits there and kept this one. I even left the forehead ribbon on! What do you think? Do you want them?”

Four sets of wide eyes focused on Wei Wuxian in surprise. The rabbits?

Lan Sizhui, “The rabbits were originally from you?”

Lan Jingyi, “Things make sense now…”

Lan-xiansheng and Lan Qiren’s eyebrows twitched. ‘So that’s where those rabbits came from.’

Lan WangJi still stared at him without any reaction and turned to walk towards the window to hide his red ears.

Wei Wuxian, “If you don’t want them, I’m gonna give them to someone else.”

As if someone had told him they were taking away his guqin, Lan Wangji quickly said, "Stop. Who are you giving them to?”

Wei Wuxian turned around and raised an eyebrow when Lan Wangji asked “I’ll give them to whoever’s good at roasting rabbit meat.”

Lan Jingyi, “What is with you and threatening to roast those rabbits!”

Wei Wuxian shrugged, “I caught them… so I can roast them if I wanted to. Not that I will, Lan Zhan!”

Lan Wangji, “Mn.”

Lan Wangji, “Killing is forbidden in the Cloud Recesses.”

At that, Wei Wuxian replied, “Fine. I’ll kill it outside and then bring it back to roast it. You don’t want it, anyway, so why do you care about it?”

Lan Jingyi chuckled at Wei-qianbei’s words, “Well… that’s one way to circumvent the rules. I can find no fault in that. And since you’re a guest disciple, you’re not expected to abstain from eating meat. The perfect solution.”

Lan Sizhui, "Please don't try it, Jingyi..."

Lan WangJi took a breath and bit out, “Give. It. To. me.”

‘You never say what you really want. So I’ll do it for you.’ Wei WuXian grinned on the windowsill, “Now you want them? You’re always like this.”

Lan Xichen smiled at the idea of someone other than him being able to read his little brother. He was right about Wei-gongzi being a good choice for his brother to become friends with. He did not expect it to develop into something more serious but so long as Wangji is happy. That’s all that matters.

Wei Wuxian pulled out a piece of lettuce to give to the rabbits. As the two rabbits played with each other, they began to wrestle with each other. The white rabbit finally pinned the black rabbit to the ground. “Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan! Look at how one is on top of the other…”

Freezing in the middle cleaning up the ink smears caused by the rabbits, Lan WangJi commented, “They are both males.”

After checking for himself, Wei Wuxian put the rabbits back down, “They really are male. I didn’t even finish what I was saying. What were you thinking about? I’m the one that caught them and didn’t even notice. Where were you looking-”

Laughter rang out throughout the Library Pavillion as Lan WangJi finally threw Wei Wuxian out of the window and slammed it shut.

Jiang Cheng, “How does Yunmeng still have any face with a Head Disciple like him?!?!?”

Wei Wuxian feigned offense, “Hey! I’m a catch! Right, Lan Zhan?”

Lan Zhan, “Mn. Perfect.”

“Lan Zhan!!! Think of my poor heart!” cried Wei Wuxian as he nuzzled Lan Wangji’s chest.

Disciples gathered on a hilltop overlooking the back hill’s waterfall. Zewu-jun and Lan-xiansheng oversaw the yearly ritual as disciples made their lanterns in groups.

Xie Lian, “Lanterns?”

Zewu-jun, “It was a tradition for the disciples to make and release blessing lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival each year."

Lan Xichen, "Was?"

Lan-xiansheng, " The Cloud Recesses postponed guest lectures after… events... that occurred after A-Xian was resurrected. Xichen entered seclusion to mourn and reflect. I… I was set in my ways and together with the Elders, refused to acknowledge Wangji and A-Xian's marriage. So Wangji seceded from the Sect to travel the world with A-Xian and the role of Acting Sect Leader fell on me once again. Wangji refused to allow any disrespect to be shown to his spouse by Gusu Lan or anyone in the Cultivation world. When they offered him the role of Xiandu, Wangji said he would only accept if every Sect apologized for the injustices they forced upon A-Xian. He only returned to the Cloud Recesses after the Elders apologized for their role in Jin Guangyao's schemes."

Shocked at the extent Lan Wangji would go to for his spouse, decisions and plans had to be reevaluated.

Wei Wuxian ran up to Lan Wangji excitedly, “Lan Zhan! Let’s set a lantern together to make a wish! We’ve shared so many life or death experiences already!”

Lan Wangji took a step away from Wei Wuxian and turned away, “I'm used to being alone.”

Pouting, Wei Wuxian whined, “You can change your habit! My lantern is especially made for you. Look!”

Wei Wuxian holds out the lantern that he had painted a rabbit on. Something in his heart warmed as Lan Wangji looked at the rabbit drawn by Wei Wuxian and a small smile crossed his face. 

Whispering to each other, the younger boys conferred, "This explains so much. That rabbit lantern Hanguang-jun gave Sizhui after Yi Cheng must have meant something too!"

Lan Jingyi, "Was that when they confessed?"

Jin Ling shivered at the memory of that night at the Guanyin Temple. "No… they confessed at the Guanyin Temple before I got dragged there. They were still just as shameless as back then… urghh."

Wei Wuxian took in the small smile as his heart did a flip and he nervously chuckled, “You smiled.” Wei Wuxian fought the urge to reach out and stroke Lan Wangji's cheek. 'What will it take for you to smile like that at me?'

One by one, the disciples released their lanterns and made a wish.

Nie Huaisang, “I wish I can graduate successfully and don't have to come back here again.”

Nie Mingjue raised an eyebrow at his brother. "And did you pass?"

Lan Xichen laughed into his sleeve as Nie Huaisang and the Head Shaker covered their faces with their fans. "Whether or not you passed Gusu Lan’s Guest Lectures became insignificant in the face of war, Da-ge."

For a moment, Nie Mingjue had forgotten that his brother was also a victim of war. Whether or not his experiences were different from those on the front line, it still had a tremendous effect on him. Life's hardships have changed his little brother. Now that Huaisang is the hardened version that he's always pushed his brother to become, he's not  sure he likes it.

Wei Wuxian, “I, Wei Wuxian, wish I can always stand with justice and live with no regrets.”

Lan Wangji stared at Wei Wuxian in awe as he made his wish. As if something finally made sense in his mind, Lan Wangji made his wish as well. 

‘I, Lan Wangji, wish I can always stand with justice and live with no regrets.”

Xie Lian, “Gusu Lan puts emphasis on education and the pursuit of knowledge. Do you pray to Ling Wen Zhen Jun?”

Lan Qiren, “We do, Your Highness. Along with General Tai Hua.”

Xie Lian, “Oh? I do believe they may be joining us after they complete their own tasks. General Tai Hua has been asking after A-Ying recently.”

WHAT?!?!? More Martial Gods? Just exactly what kind of person is this Wei Wuxian?!?!?!?!

The Cultivation World of the past slowly felt the fingers of doom closing around them.

Chapter Text

Smiling at the scene, Wei Wuxian gives his husband a kiss before walking over to Wei Ying. “Little me, let’s have a talk.”

Wei Ying gets from his seat and bounces over to where Wei Wuxian stood, “Ok! How did you get the compass to work? Is it the same basis as the lure flags?”

Wei Wuxian doesn’t answer until they’re far away enough from where the rest can hear. “Wei Ying. There are some things I need to show you before it’s shown to everyone. You need to be prepared and have your emotions sorted out before that happens.”

Taken back by Wei Wuxian’s serious tone, Wei Ying nods. “What do I need to do?”

Wei Wuxian, “We’re going to perform Empathy.”

At the front, cultivators watched as He Xuan walked to the table where food once again appeared and began to eat. Deciding to not upset the Ghost King by getting food for themselves, they forced their attention back to the cloth and resumed watching.

Lan-xiansheng is shown sitting at a stone table underneath a magnolia tree in the early morning. Elegant fingers filter across a white porcelain tea set. Pouring himself a cup of tea, Lan-xiansheng contemplates the past few days. Since the incident with the fierce corpses, Wei Wuxian has been quiet. Almost rule-abiding.

A Lan disciple bowed as he approached, "Lan-xiansheng."

Lan-xiansheng, “Wei Wuxian must be up to something again. Go and investigate it.”

Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang hunched over laughing alongside the younger boys as amusement filled the hall. 

Wen Qing, "From what we've seen, I'd be suspicious too if Wei Wuxian suddenly started following the rules."

The Lan disciple proceeded to bow again, however, the sound of fabric ripping filled the hall. Lan-xiansheng eyes the wide-eyed and red-faced disciple suspiciously as he nervously backs away with his hands hidden behind his back.

A pained cry drew attention to where Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying sat across from each other.

Jiang Cheng, “What is he doing?!?”

Before he could finish asking, Jin Ling had already shot towards the back while removing his Jiang bell from his belt. Lan Wangji made his way towards the two before he answered, “Empathy.”

Wen Qing is on her feet in no time at that answer. Empathy is draining on one’s spiritual energy. Wei Wuxian may have an impossibly large amount of spiritual energy but Wei Ying does not.

All eyes are on Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying as they pull out of Empathy. Wei Ying flinches as Wen Qing grabs his wrist to check his spiritual energy but quickly apologizes. “He’s going to need a minute to get his bearings again.” Wei Wuxian informed them as he held a hand out to Wei Ying. “Let’s return to our seats. You’ll probably be seeing what I’ve shown him later on anyways so there's no need to question him further."

Curious eyes follow Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying back to their seats. No one has ever attempted to perform Empathy and here these two are, just jumping into it at the back of a hall full of people.

The lighting changed as the afternoon light settled throughout the forest. The calmness of nature settles over the viewers. As they admired the serene forest, a flash of white darts silently across the scene.

Switching views again, the viewers are shown the back of a Lan cultivator as he watches Wei Wuxian walk out from between the trees. A pheasant hanging from his sword that was swung over his shoulder, he had a big smile on his face as he whistled a Yunmeng drinking song.

Those from Yunmeng and the areas nearby recognized the song and chuckled at the bawdy song.

Wei Wuxian suddenly looked up as if he finally sensed the presence of another. Alert gave way to surprise and then to excitement as Wei Wuxian smiled brightly in recognition. "Lan Zhan!"

"Killing is prohibited in the Cloud Recesses." Came the displeased reply.

A sense of loss flooded Wei Wuxian at his tone. Jiang Cheng’s words from earlier in the day flashed through Wei Wuxian's mind. ' You've gone and offended Lan Wangji. He definitely hates you now, Wei Wuxian!' 

Lan Zhan looked to Wei Ying as he caught the other looking down at his feet. Eyebrows furrowed as if puzzling out a dilemma. 

Putting on a brave front, Wei Wuxian smirked and flicked his head towards the stone marker used to mark the border between the lands. The marker stood between them and it read:

The Cloud Recesses

Wei Wuxian was outside the borders of the Cloud Recesses. Lan Wangji let out a sigh as Wei Wuxian walked back towards the forest, humming another drinking song.

Nie Mingjue laughed, "Well… he's not wrong."

Feng Xin chuckled, "He was always finding loopholes in our rules for him."

Hua Cheng huffed in amusement while Xie Lian laughed, "We once told him he could only go where we could see him and he ran off a little while later. When San Lang finally found him, A-Ying said 'I had A-Die's butterfly on me so he could see me through that!.' So technically he did exactly as we said no matter where he went."

Jiang Fengmian felt a twinge of bitterness as he listened to the Heavenly God's story. 'A-Xian called him A-Die. But I was always Jiang-shushu to him.'

Lan-xiansheng and Zewu-jun walked down the steps of the Cloud Recesses as they intended to check on the progress of the Waterborne Abyss suppression. On their way down, several Lan disciples and guest disciples were struggling to make their way up the steps. The guest disciples' struggles were understandable as they are not used to the large set of steps. But the Lan disciples… it should have been second nature for them to climb these steps.

The disciples greet Lan-xiansheng and Zewu-jun as they pass them on the steps. As they straightened from their bows and continued their ascent with seemingly renewed energy, Zewu-jun noticed a few of the disciples looked to have gotten plumper in the face. 'Odd.'

Those who attended Gusu Lan’s lecture with Wei Wuxian shared knowing looks. They would not have survived all of the Lans’ meals without him.

Lan Wangji is on night patrol again as a movement catches his attention.  He turns towards where the figure was creeping along the ground before jumping up onto the roof. "Wei Ying. Do not sneak out by climbing over the wall in the Cloud Recesses."

Nie Huaisang, “Uh oh, someone’s in trouble…”

Jiang Cheng, “Busted.”

Wei Wuxian looked back at Lan Wangji from the roof with a mischievous smile. "Lan Zhan! I didn't climb over the wall-"

The view zooms out to show the rest of the wall and the door Wei Wuxian was currently standing above.

"...I climbed over the door." Wei Wuxian finished.

The boys are laughing so hard that they have hunched over in their seats. Their laughter is joined by the Nies as well as the Immortal Beings.

Lan Jingyi, “Wei-qianbei! Oh my god, you’re amazing!”

“...climbed over… the door…” Ouyang Zizhen gasped out in between laughs.

Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen’s eyes widen when they notice Lan-xiansheng’s lips slightly twitched upwards. Now more curious about their close relationship than ever, Lan Qiren makes a note to speak with his counterpart when possible.

Lan Wangji let out a resigned sigh. As Wei Wuxian's laughter floated to where he stood, his heart felt lighter. He turned and continued his patrol. Landing on the other side of the wall, Wei Wuxian turned back to watch Lan Wangji walking away with a sad smile.

Unease settles into their bones the more Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan watch. As they are being shown these scenes, Lan Zhan began to worry that his behavior towards Wei Ying when they had first met had caused a misunderstanding. Even though Lan Wangji has spent the past decade showing Wei Ying how much he is loved, there were still moments where Wei Ying would pull away from everyone. Could this shed some light on why?

The next afternoon, Lan Wangji steadily made his way to the kitchens. Earlier one of the kitchen staff mentioned Wei Wuxian had come by to bring lunch in his room but he had grabbed an entire pot of rice when he did so.

Having received no answer to his knock, Lan Wangji opened the door to Wei Wuxian's room. Wei Wuxian's back was to him as he ate. The pot of rice sat empty by his side.

"Wei Ying. Do not eat more than three bowls of rice in the Could Recesses. You got too much rice."

Lan Sizhui smiles as Lan Jingyi snickers to his friends, “Hanguang-jun allows Wei-qianbei to eat as much as he wants.”

Wei Wuxian paused while eating as he turned around to look at Lan Wangji with wide innocent eyes. Chopsticks still held up to his mouth. His cheeks were puffed up with rice like a chipmunk storing food. The sight made Lan Wangji's heart melt and his ears turn red. 'Cute.' 

Swallowing his food, Wei Wuxian pouted, "I didn't, Lan Zhan. It's just my first bowl of rice!"

Jiang Wanyin once again pinched the bridge of his nose. “Why do you act like this? How does Lan Wangji even deal with you?”

“Because I’m adorable!” retorted Wei Wuxian. Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang pretend to vomit at the reply.

He turned fully to show Lan Wangji his "bowl" of rice. Lan Wangji's eyebrows twitched before he pulled Wei Wuxian out of his room.

Jin Ling, "Is that a serving bowl from the kitchen?!?!?"

Lan Jingyi, "Holy shit!"

Lan Sizhui, "Jingyi!"

Lan jingyi, "Sorry Sizhui! But... if you think about it. The rules never stated what size bowls were allowed. It's brilliant!"

The boys continue to debate the rules as Lan Wangji looks on. His eyes softened as Sizhui laughs at something Jingyi had said. This was the future he fought for. His son and his friends, carefree and unburdened. Uncaring of Sect or status.

"Lan Wangji."

Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan turned their heads towards the voice. Immediately gaining their feet, they bowed and waited for instructions from the Immortal. 

"As Lan Yi had accepted A-Ying into the Lan family, I accept you into ours. Welcome to the family." Baoshan Sanren declared as her disapproving eyes landed on Yu Ziyuan. “You have the approval of your Familial Ancestors, no one can forsake or refute your union.” 

Jiang Fengmian solemnly nodded his head in acceptance. As Wei Wuxian’s maternal grandmother, her words held more weight than his or his wife's.

As Baoshan Sanren's eyes landed on Lan Qiren, he nodded in acceptance as well. The words of an Elder Ancestor will always take precedence over the current Leaders and Elders.

Happiness burst in Lan Zhan's chest as he met the eyes of an equally happy Wei Ying. 

Wei Wuxian found himself once again copying texts in the Library Pavilion. He sat across from Lan Wangji, plotting, while he and Lan Wangji ate lunch. 'If wasn't for the stupid Peacock and his dog, Lan Zhan wouldn't have found my Emperor’s Smile! Pets aren't allowed in the Cloud Recesses!" 

Jin Ling looked at his dad in excitement, “You had a dog? I never knew!”

Jin Zixuan takes note that his dogs were gone by the time Jin Ling was old enough to know the difference, “I actually had several. The one Wei Wuxian was talking about is named Blossom.”

“Blossom?” Lan Jingyi whispered to Lan Sizhui and Ouyang Zizhen. “I see where Jin Ling got his naming sense.”

Wei Ying bursts out laughing. “Oh… this makes so much sense! Jiang Cheng...Jin Ling inherited his naming sense from both you and the Peacock.”

Jiang Cheng scowled, “Says the guy who named his sword Suibian .”

Wei Ying, still laughing, says, “Technically… Jiang shu-shu did!”

Lan Wangji, "Wei Ying, focus on eating."

Wei Wuxian looked down at the dishes on the table and whined, "I will focus on eating, but can't we eat something else? These are plain and tasteless."

The clinking sound of ceramic rolling on wood pulled Lan Wangji's attention to the floor. A dark jar rolled past him and stopped at Wei Wuxian's knee. Lan Wangji turns to check the window behind him when Wei Wuxian gasps and holds up a jar with stars in his eyes. "Lao Gan Ma!!!" And proceeds to pour four spoonfuls onto his rice. "There's no rule that says spicy food is forbidden in the Cloud Recesses! Lan Zhan, do you want some too?"

Shudders run through the boys as they flashback to eating bright red congee.

Cultivators gape at the amount of chili being piled onto the bowl of rice. That much would burn any taste buds in their mouths. Who can even eat that much spice?!?!

Lan Wangji warily eyed the bright red bowl of rice with trepidation, "No."

Wei Wuxian poured a spoonful over the rice in Lan Wangji’s bowl, "Try some! Don't stand on ceremony!"

Lan Wangji, "No."

Never one to give up, Wei Wuxian tried a new tactic. "It is chili that brings us together! The first requirement for marrying... someone… girls... from Yunmeng is being able to eat spicy food."

Nie Huaisang sighs, “Wei-xiong… I really do feel bad for Wangji-xiong.”

Lan Wangji looked up from his bowl of rice to look at Wei Wuxian. Trying to decipher if he's speaking the truth.

'Ah… that got his attention." Ignoring the sudden ache in his heart, Wei Wuxian prepared to push forward but was stopped when Lan Wangji picked up his spoon and scooped a spoonful into his mouth. "You... you really ate it. I was just kidding. You…"

The ache in his heart grew more intense as he watched Lan Wangji continue to eat his rice until everything was gone. "Is... there someone you like in Yunmeng? What's her name? Which clan is she from? I'll ask about her."

Lan Wangji pushed through the burning in his mouth, "Wei Ying."

Shoving his feelings to the side, Wei Wuxian replied, "I know, I know. You're being shy. Don't worry. I won't tell anyone."

Groans fill the hall as Wei Ying flushes red. “That wasn’t what you meant was it…?”

Lan Zhan’s ears turn bright red and he grabs Wei Ying’s hand, “Mn.”

The scene zooms outside the window to show Jiang Wanyin and Nie Huaisang crouching below the window outside. Having done their part to deliver the chili sauce, the two tiptoed away.

"You will still hold a wedding ceremony." Hua Cheng demanded from his seat. "A-Ying deserves more than a simple hand-fasting in an ice cave."

Smiling at his side, Xie Lian clasped his hands before him, "I've always imagined the day we would see our little A-Ying dressed in red." Looking towards the back, he added, "Restrictions will be lifted so that the Heavenly Officials can attend A-Ying's wedding."

"I will send out the communications, Taizi Dianxia." A female voice replied. Attention turned to the back where a female dressed in simple black robes had stepped through the door carrying a scroll.

Pei Ming, “What took so long, Ling Wen Zhen Jun?”

Ling Wen Zhen Jun?!?!?! The Number One Civil God? Excitement built as the cultivators stood to greet the Civil God. Confusion quickly spreads when no one else stepped through the door.

"Where's Ling Wen Zhen Jun?"

"I thought General Ming Guang just addressed him?"

Disgust showed in Ling Wen's eyes as she walked past the Jiangs and Jins. Her eyes land on Jin Guangshan and she scoffs. The man's eyes were roaming her body appreciatively. Feeling spiteful, Ling Wen shifted to her male form. Pei Ming and Ling Wen shared a smirk at Jin Guangshan's horrified confusion. Realization dawned on the cultivators as they openly gaped at the Goddess they've been worshipping as a God.

Ling Wen continued her path to the front after pausing to hand Jin Zixuan, who had scrambled to his feet and looked on with confusion, a scroll. She stopped before Wei Ying and reached out to hand him a wrapped package, doing the same with Wei Wuxian.

A pleased gasp escaped Wei Ying's lips as he opened the package. "Lotus seeds! Thank you, Goddess… God… your… highness…?"

The Heavenly Officials chuckled at Wei Ying's confusion when a soft "Ling-shushen." drew all eyes to Wei Wuxian. He was looking down at the lotus seeds in his hands with a soft sad smile on his lips. "Are these…?"

The cultivators looked on as Baoshan Sanren, the Heavenly Officials, and Ghost Kings' faces softened and became fond as they looked at Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying. They sucked in a breath at the overwhelming outpouring of love in that moment. Xie Lian spoke up, “They bloomed not too long after we planted them. This is the first time we’ve harvested them, however. It didn’t feel right to enjoy them without you.”

Realization flashes in Wei Ying’s eyes and his smile drops. He continued to eat the seeds absentmindedly but that makes Lan Zhan look at him worriedly.

A knock on the door pulled Lan Qiren from his meditation. Having received permission, Lan Xichen entered the Yashi to greet his uncle. Once seated, he pulled a book out from his sleeves and handed it over to his uncle.

Lan Qiren, "How to Survive in the Cloud Recesses?"

Lan Qiren's face got redder and redder as he flipped through the book. 

“We need to find that book, Sizhui!” Lan Jingyi whisper-yelled.

"WEI YING!!!!!!!!!"

All over Cloud Recesses, Lan Qiren's angry yell could be heard. Even from the back hills where Wei Wuxian and Nie Huaisang were fishing in the lake.

Nie Huaisang broke down laughing from where he had fallen in the water, "Wei-xiong, you've done it now! Now both Lan Qiren and Lan Wangji hate you!"

"I can’t help it if they're a bunch of sticks in the mud!" laughed Wei Wuxian. Though the laughter did not reach his eyes.

“You wrote a book? On how to circumvent Gusu Lan’s rules?” Nie Mingjue breaks down laughing. “Genius! I like you, kid!” Nie Huaisang and the Head Shaker beam up at him like he said they could buy more brushes and paint for the month.

Shi Qingxuan excitedly announced, "Leave the wedding planning to Jiang-guniang and I!" Pei Ming and Ling Wen rolled their eyes at the former Wind Master’s enthusiastic cry before flushing at her next questions . “But… which one is the bride?”

Lan-xiansheng clears his throat before smirking, “Wei Wuxian’s inventions and talismans have brought in more than enough profit in our time. Enough to pay any dowry ten times over. Gusu Lan will not need a dowry.”

Oh... that answers that question. The Lans gaped at Lan-xiansheng. Did he… did he just…in front of everyone??!?!

“Shufu!” Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying flush red as Lan Zhan’s ears match their faces. Zewu-jun hides a smile at Lan Wangji’s smugness. The Heavenly Officials and Ghost Kings’ eyebrows and faces twitch at the insinuation. ‘A-Ying… our little A-Ying…’

Nie Mingjue could no longer hold back his laughter and full bellied laughter cuts through the hall as the image on the cloth changes.

Chapter Text

White robed disciples walked along a long wall as Lan-xiansheng's voice droned on reciting the story of Lan An and his soulmate.

Giggling, Wei Wuxian studied one of many panels on the wall as he spoke, “So, the Lans' ancestor was a monk? Now all the rules make sense… how could a person like him produce such unromantic descendants?”

Wei Wuxian laughed, "Little did I know how romantic they really are! Right, Shidi?"

"Shut up!" Jiang Wanyin hissed under his breath. The time travelers chuckled at the flustered man as Jiang Cheng caught the smile he was trying to hide. 'Did I fall for a Lan as well?'

A group of Jin disciples stood before the panel depicting Lan An. "I wonder how exceptional 'The One' really was… We're not short on beautiful women right now!"

"Mei Feng was a beauty in her own right. A little quiet though…" mused Pei Ming out loud. It was a moment before he noticed the others getting quiet and looked back. "What?"

"Lao Pei… please tell me you didn't have a thing with the Lan ancestor's wife." Ling Wen inquired as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Of course not! She had already met Lan An." Pei Ming replied before adding, “I had a thing with her sister.” Shocking the cultivators as the Heavenly Officials rolled their eyes.

The Jin disciple standing next to Jin Zixuan turned to him and asked, "Jin-gongzi, who do you think looks best?"

Jin ZiXuan’s heart stopped and color drained from his face as the memory of that day flooded him.

Walking past the group, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin happened to hear the conversation. 

"Do you even need to ask? He's engaged. So of course he would have to pick his fiance."

"He is? Who is this lady? She must be extraordinary!"

A small smile graced Jiang Yanli's face as she watched.

Looking over to Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying, Jin Zixuan's palms began to sweat. Their faces were darkened with anger and their hands were fisted in their laps. 'I guess they're still mad…'

Liu Rushi frowned at her son's reaction to the scene but her attention was pulled to the cloth before she could ask him what was wrong.

Fed up with the gossiping, Jin Zixuan spoke up, "Drop it."

The smile dropped from Jiang Yanli's face and Jin Ling's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. 'I thought my parents loved each other before they got married.'

"What do you mean 'drop it'? Are you not happy with your engagement to my Shijie?"

Turning around to where the angry voice came from, the group was met with the sight of a very angry Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian. The ever present smile on Wei Wuxian's face was replaced with a furious scowl. 

Shivers ran through the boys as they watched. Wei-qianbei never gets angry unless someone he loves is hurt or insulted. The times that he does get angry, it's never pretty for the offenders. 

Whispers break out as disciples begin to realize the situation.

"It's that plain girl, Jiang Yanli?"

"No wonder Jin Zixuan…"

"What a shame!"

"I hear her cultivation is as low as a child's"

“I heard it was arranged from birth and not by choice!”

Jiang Fengmian frowned. The boys had refused to elaborate on what happened with the Jin heir even with the threat of punishment. It seems they'll be shown the reason for Wei Ying's actions that day.

Jiang Yanli shifted her gaze to the floor. This wasn't new to her. She knows what others say about her when they think she can't hear them. Throughout the years she had built a mask of false cheer whenever needed. To show that their words did not bother her. To pretend to be the docile and ignorant girl they believe her to be.

"WHO THE HELL DO THEY THINK THEY ARE?!?!" Jin Ling shot to his feet. His body shook with barely restrained anger. Ouyang Zizhen pulled his friend back into his seat as he glared at the disciples in the scene. "They don't even know her!"

"Is there anything about her that can make me happy?" Jin Zixuan looked down his nose at them.

Yu Ziyuan and Liu Rushi's furious eyes snapped towards Jin Zixuan as Jin Ling glared at his father. Tears pooled in Jiang Yanli’s eyes; her suspicions about the cause of the fight confirmed.

"I don't understand." All eyes turned towards a scowling Jin Ling. "I thought you were in love. I grew up being told that my parents were so in love. That they couldn't wait to get married. But… you... you just disregarded her in front of everyone. I can't even imagine doing something like that to someone I loved."

Jin Zixuan's heart flipped as warmth bloomed in his chest. 'We were in love? Were they lying to comfort his son as he grew up?'

Sighing, Wei Wuxian stood to kneel before Jin Ling. "Your parents… they had a rough start in their relationship. It was an arranged marriage and their only examples of marriage were your grandparents' marriages. You can see how things are."

Joining Wei Wuxian at his side, Jiang Wanyin put a hand on Jin Ling's shoulder. "Your father had his fair share of idiotic moments and your Da-jiu put him in his place as you will probably be seeing. When all is said and done, your parents were madly in love and they love you just as much. Do not doubt that."

Still frowning, Jin Ling snuck a look at his parents. His father was lost in thought while his mother stared at the cloth in front with tears in her eyes.

Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian stepped closer as their hands clenched tightly into fists. "You…"

Jin Zixuan, "What? Am I wrong? If she’s unhappy, then tell her to get rid of this engagement! I don’t care for your Shijie. If you care so much for her, why don't you ask her father for her hand! Doesn’t he treat you better than treating his own child or something?"

"JIN ZIXUAN!" screamed Yu Ziyuan, momentarily forgetting the pain from her broken arm. "I don't care if you dislike the engagement. How dare you disparage my daughter!"

Gasps filled the hall as a pale Jin Zixuan got to his feet and bowed to Jiang Yanli. "I'm so sorry! I was angry with being powerless in the situation and lashed out without thinking!"

Jiang Yanli turned her face away from Jin Zixuan to hide the tears in her eyes. "There is nothing to forgive. The engagement was forced upon you and you were not given a choice to accept or refuse."

Jin ZiXuan’s heart dropped to his stomach as he straightened from his bow. Anxiety ripped through his body as his mind grappled for something… anything to make the situation better. “Please… Jiang-guniang. I-I let my fears cloud my judgement. My-my only examples of marriage were my parents and… I-I didn’t want that. Our future selves seem to have realized something about each other. Please… give us a chance to find what they did.”

Jiang Yanli sighed, “Jin-gongzi, our parents are our only examples of what marriage is like. I know the toll it takes on everyone when there is no mutual affection. I’ve always hoped for a love match and I am willing to wait for someone who will love me as much as I love them. If what my brothers have said is true, then I have hope that we can find that with each other.”

The small smile on Jiang Yanli’s face gave Jin ZIxuan hope that maybe he hasn’t completely ruined things with her. Having returned to their seats, Wei Wuxian snickered as Jiang Wanyin rolled his eyes.

At everyone’s curious glances, Wei Wuxian laughed. “That’s an improvement over his confession at Phoenix Mountain. I wonder if we’re going to be seeing that. It was priceless! You should have seen his face!”

Jiang Wanyin moved to throw a punch but was pulled back by Wei Wuxian before he himself punched Jin Zixuan. Disciples rushed to pull the two apart before Nie Huaisang ran to grab a Senior disciple. 

The scene shifts from the fight to the Yashi where Jiang Fengmian and Jin Guangshan sit before Lan-xiansheng in the Yashi. Seeming to make up his mind on something, Jiang Fengmian broached the topic regarding the engagement. "I was against this engagement in the first place but agreed as both our wives wanted it. But the situation as it is now, it looks like neither of the children are keen on it. It's best we don't force them." 'Not unless we want their marriage to turn out like ours.'

Shock crossed Jiang Yanli and Yu Ziyuan’s face. They hadn’t expected Jiang Fengmian to care about whether or not Jiang Yanli’s marriage would be a happy one.

"What do the children know? Jiang-xiong, pay them no mind. They will do what we as the parents tell them to." Jin Guangshan pleaded before he brought the tea cup to his lips to hide his smirk.

Outwardly, he showed concern over dissolving the engagement. Inwardly, excitement coursed through Jin Guangshan as Jiang Fengmian spoke. He had been against this engagement since his wife brought it up. There was no benefit to marriage. Yunmeng Jiang did not have enough wealth and they couldn’t be cowed. The Jiang girl was no beauty and her cultivation was laughable at best. She would be an embarrassment as the future Jin-furen with only her name to benefit the sect.

"Embarrassment?!?!" Liu Rushi rounded on her husband. "You're the embarrassment here, you disgusting ingrate!"

Jiang Fengmian's eyes narrowed at his one time friend. "Seeing as you think so lowly of Yunmeng Jiang, we will rescind all alliances and trades with Lanling Jin if Jin Guangshan retains any kind of influence there."

Liu Rushi, " I assure you, Fengmian. He will be stripped of all power and influence when we return."

Seething with anger, Jin Guangshan's fingers flinched before he forced himself to remain silent and immobile. For his plan to work, they can't know he's no longer silenced or paralyzed. 'You're going to regret going up against me when that demon is under my control!'

Meng Yao caught the movement as he was studying his father's reaction to these things being shown. He has already deduced that his silence through all this meant that he was restricted from talking somehow. His father had also been immobilized by the needles in his neck that seemed to have worn off if he could move his fingers. But why was he pretending he was still immobilized. What was he planning?

Jiang Fengmian sighs before setting his tea cup down, "Jin-xiong, we can set the engagement for them but we can’t carry out the marriage in their place. They are the ones who will be spending the rest of their lives together." 'Yanli deserves someone who loves her.'

Once again, Jiang Yanli is pleasantly surprised. A smile graced her lips as she met his eyes and a smile forms on his in return. For the first time in a long while, she sees the love her father has for his children in his eyes.

Putting on an act of reluctance, Jin Guangshan agreed to dissolve the engagement. As Jiang Fengmian had been the one to bring up dissolving the engagement, he didn't have to worry about his wife's wrath. 'Now I can secure a stronger alliance. Qin Cangye has a daughter… what's her name? Qin Su? She would be a good choice.'

Yu Ziyuan and Liu Rushi's furious glares hone in on Jin Guangshan but before they could do anything, disgusted groans fell from the time travelers lips to the past cultivators' confusion. 

Head Shaker addressed Jin Zixuan, "I would stay far away from that if I were you…far far away."

Hearing his daughter being insulted, Qin Cangye marched from his seat to stand before the Head Shaker, "And pray tell what's wrong with my daughter?"

Unfazed by the looming man, the Head Shaker simply fanned himself to the shock of Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang. "There are details that will come to light with this viewing and… well… you will soon understand. I would prepare myself for some unpleasant surprises."

Nie Huaisang leaned forward to whisper to Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng as their eyes tracked the Head Shaker. "Future me is amazing!" Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng nodded in agreement. 

Qin Cangye, "You-"

Ling Wen interrupted, "Jin-gongzi, perhaps you and your mother should take a look at the scroll I handed you earlier. To avoid…distasteful surprises."

Now curious, Liu Rushi walked to her son's side as he unrolled the scroll. As they read what was written on the scroll, Liu Rushi's face became more and more red with anger while all color had drained from Jin Zixuan's. 

Without warning, Liu Rushi launched herself at her husband. Her nails scratched his face as she slapped and punched him. "YOU VILE… DISGUSTING... MONSTER! I'LL HAVE YOU CASTRATED AND PUT DOWN LIKE THE RABID DOG THAT YOU ARE!"

Instinctively, Jin Guangshan grabbed her wrists to keep her from doing further damage. That broke Jin Zixuan out of his trance and he rushed to pull his mother out of his father's reach. Wen Qing immediately moved to once again paralyze Jin Guangshan to his dismay. 'Troublesome woman! I won't let this go so easily!'

Jin Zixuan pulled his mother back to his seat as she continued to thrash and kick while screaming insults towards his father. His mind is still on the list of names on the scroll as his stomach turned at the thought of what his father had done.

"Madam Jin… please calm yourself. This is most unbecoming!" Qin Cangye tried to intervene and stood between Jin Guangshan and his wife.

"Calm myself?!?!??! CALM MYSELF?!?! You read this yourself and see if you can calm down." Lie Rushi continued to yell as she threw the scroll at Qin Cangye. Jiang Yanli pulled her to sit between herself and Jin Zixuan then grabbed her hand to draw soothing circles on the back of it.

Qin Cangye unrolled the scroll with furrowed eyebrows and began to read. Before long, shock and eventually anger overtook his features. Marching over to where Jin Guangshan sat, Qin Cangye grabbed him by the collar and yanked him out of his seat. 

Punch after punch landed on Jin Guangshan's face, each more powerful than the last as anger continued to build inside Qin Cangye. Eventually several Sect Leaders were able to pull him off of Jin Guangshan. "My wife?!?!? You dared to lay your hands on my wife?!?!? My A-Su...oh my god..."

It took several more tries from the Sect Leaders to pull Qin Cangye back to calm down as he continued to launch himself at Jin Guangshan. "Laoling Qin will no longer have any ties to Lanling Jin. We will be seeking justice for the rape of my wife by Jin Guangshan." Qin Cangye growled out as he finally allowed the stunned Sect Leaders to pull him back into a seat. 

One thought was prominent in everyone's mind: If Jin Guangshan dared to rape his closest ally's wife… What female would be safe then?

Jiang Fengmian, "Jin-furen, Jin-gongzi. So long as this man is still alive, my daughter will never step foot into Lanling nor will she be left alone in the presence of any Jin."

Jin Zixuan closed his eyes in defeat before he nodded to acknowledge Jiang Fengmian's words. "I will personally assure that Jiang-guniang will always have a non-Jin chaperone when I visit Lotus Pier." 

Jiang Fengmian nods in return. "You and your mother will always be welcomed in Lotus Pier."

Pei Ming stared at the lump of flesh that was Jin Guangshan with disgust. "Only weak men force themselves on women to feel superior. I am ashamed to know that you are amongst my followers."

Zewu-jun, "Perhaps now would be a good time to take a short break. I'm sure everyone is in need of refreshments."

"Gege, I will be right back. I forgot something back in the Ghost City." Hua Cheng stood to leave. "Why don't you catch up with A-Ying?"

Xie Lian, "Mn. Hurry back, San Lang."

Sharp eyes followed Hua Cheng as he walked to the door and pulled out his dice. 'If I can get those dice, perhaps there is a way for all of us to get out of here before anything more unsavory gets revealed.'

As everyone broke into small chatter, Wei Ying excused himself from his friends and made his way over to Wei Wuxian with Lan Zhan at his side. Before losing his nerve, Wei Ying asked, "The lotus seeds… were they… were they the ones from the Burial Mounds?"

Wei Wuxian let out a sad sigh, "They were. Years after… my death, I returned to the Burial Mounds with Xie- I mean Baba and A-Die." He quickly amended after receiving glares from his parent. "There were several that survived all those years so we transplanted them to Puqi Shrine. They're a labor of love and a reminder of the family that I lost. We have a pond at the back of the Jingshi, perhaps I can plant these to carry on the memory."

Taking the seat that Jiang Wanyin had vacated during the break, Wei Ying sat beside Wei Wuxian and scratched the side of his nose nervously. 

Lan Wangji radiated amusement as he watched Wei Ying build up the courage to ask his questions. Although it was Wei Ying's soul that he fell in love with, he couldn’t stop himself from taking in the face that he never thought he would ever be able to see again. 

"So…" Wei Ying begins. "What happens now? Will everything we do after we get out change your timeline?"

Wei Wuxian takes a moment to consider the options. "Time is a series of overlapping ribbons of a sort. There will be moments that overlap between two timelines before they diverge and one changes direction. I believe this would be one of those moments. It shouldn't affect our timeline as much as it does yours since it will diverge and change directions from here."

Wei Ying, "But there's no definite way of knowing until we get out?"

"Right!" Wei Wuxian smiled before his eyes narrowed in suspicion as the Heavenly Officials exchanged subtle glances.

As if suddenly remembering something important, WeiYing jolted in his seat."Wait… how come the Gods can leave but we can’t?"

Xie Lian, "Ah… that's because of the array. Those related to you and your timelines are brought here by the array. Any additional persons are able to be brought in but they won't be able to leave until the array has served its purpose. Since the Heavenly Officials and the Ghost Kings are related to A-Ying during his death and because we are no longer humans, we fall outside the limits of the array. We can come and go as we please."

"Where did you say you found the array again?" Wei Wuxian asked. Now curious to take a much closer look at the array.

Xie Lian, "We found it in Qishan. Actually, it was drawn on a pillar leading into what would have been an archery field."

Wei Ying, "That's where I saw the array in our timeline! Do you think someone in the past would have to draw and activate the array in both timelines?"

Lan Wangji, "Perhaps the array appeared in your time once the array in our timeline activated."

Lan Zhan, "Mn. Time travel has never been done before. That is more likely."

"Awww isn't Lan Zhan the smartest?" Sighed Wei Wuxian as he leaned into a smiling Lan Wangji’s chest. Wei Ying and Lan Zhan exchanged shy smiles as Wei Ying blushed red again. "I'm never going to recover from this… my face is going to permanently stay red"

Lan Zhan, "Mn. Cute." Causing Wei Ying to blush even more red to Wei Wuxian’s amusement. 

"Oye! Lao He, move out of the way so others can eat too!" Shouted Shi Qingxuan before he shifted to his male form.

"There's plenty of room. It's not my fault they're scared to approach me." He Xuan shrugged between bites. The table continued to replenish food as it's eaten so he’s made himself comfortable there.

Shi Qingxuan, "Everyone ignore the grumpy Calamity and come eat!"

Mu Qing and Feng Xin eyed the table with suspicion as food continued to appear as they were taken. Laughing at their distrust,  Xie Lian reassured them. "This is food conjured from A-Ying's memories and are his favorites. Most of them are food that his Shijie cooked. A few seem to be what Lan Wangji has cooked for him though I would… steer clear of those. You know his love for spice."

At the mention of Wei Wuxian's love for spice, many began to sweat bullets. Mu Qing's tongue began to tingle and his taste buds shrink in fear. Feng Xin and Pei Xiu backed away slowly from the bright red dishes and automatically reached for something to drink as if to stave off the phantom burning in their mouths. 

Hua Cheng returned as everyone had finished their meals and settled himself next to Xie Lian. At Xie Lian's questioning glance, he replied, "I had to pick up something that I forgot to bring along for A-Ying."

Clearing his throat, Lan-xiansheng inquired if everyone was ready to continue. With that, they all turned back to the cloth. 

The image changes as Lan Wangji stops behind a column in front of the Ancestral Hall. 

Lan Wangji’s eyes widened with concern as his eyes landed on a kneeling Wei Wuxian, whose shoulders were shaking slightly. 'Wei Ying'

“Not only was I punished for fighting but I also made Jiang-shushu have to come all the way here.” Wei Wuxian cried as tears ran down his cheeks. Lan Wangji took a step towards Wei Wuxian with furrowed eyebrows, however stopped when Wei Wuxian slumped forward on both hands.

Wei Ying and Wei Wuxian watch the scene in confusion. 'What...?'

“Peacock, how dare you use your spiritual power during the fight!” Wei Wuxian groaned out in pain as he clutched his chest.

"That… that didn't happen…" Wei Ying spoke. The others looked at Wei Ying and Wei Wuxian as they continued to watch with their eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

“Wei Ying!” Lan Wangji quickly moved to Wei Wuxian’s side. 

Wei Wuxian turned and curiously looked over his shoulder at Lan Wangji. No tears or injuries in sight. “Lan Zhan, what are you doing here? Were you punished, too?” 

Wei Wuxian, "Oh!!"

Wei Ying breaks down laughing, "Oh!!!! Oh my god, Lan Zhan! Did you really think..."

The scene zooms over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder as he turns back around and bends over an ant hill in the ground. “You know what? I found an ant hill. Let me teach you how to play with it.” 

Lan Wangji’s face darkens and his eyebrows twitch as he watches Wei Wuxian continue.

The sight of Lan Wangji and Lan Zhan's red ears pushed their amusement over the edge and both Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying bent over laughing.

“First, put bait in it.”

*Twitch*

“Then, get a twig.”

*Twitch*

 “Finally, stab the nest with the twig. Isn't this fun? Lan Zhan, give it a try!”

The entire hall has now erupted in uncontrollable laughter. Lan Qiren huffed in resigned defeat seeing how his punishment had no effect on the boy whatsoever. It was then that he noticed with surprise that Lan-xiansheng was also chuckling along with the rest.

Lan Wangji, “You were punished to kneel and reflect... but you play with ants?”

Giggling, Wei Wuxian holds up the twig with ants crawling all over it to his face, “But these ants are so cute! Are you sure you don't wanna stab it?”

Lan Jingyi laughed so hard he fell over on top of Lan Sizhui's lap, "Oh my god… I can't…"

Ouyang Zizhen and Jin Ling were leaning shoulder to shoulder clutching their sides, "Wei-qianbei! I knew you were my hero for a reason!"

Now angry, Lan Wangji flicks his sleeves and turns to leave. “So unteachable.”

Catching Lan Wangji leaving out of the corner of his eyes, Wei Wuxian turns to question him with a pout. “Lan Zhan? Why are you leaving? Lan Zhan! What a shame... You haven't seen my masterpiece yet.”

“I don't think he ever wants to see you again.” Jiang Wanyin approached with a sneer on his face as he watched Lan Wangji stalk off. “Look at how well-behaved you are, finally kneeling properly.”

Lan Wangji watched the scene as he felt his heart drop. 'Was this why Wei Ying believed I hated him? Because everyone told him I did?'

‘This punishment is nothing compared to those at home’ Wei Wuxian laughed as he boasted, “Of course! I kneel all the time. But Jin Zixuan is a spoiled peacock so he’s definitely never been punished to kneel before. If I don’t make him feel the pain of kneeling to the point that he cries for his parents, my last name isn’t Wei.”

Wei Wuxian's thoughts sobered many from their amusement. If what they've already witnessed earlier was a regular occurrence at home, then of course kneeling is nothing compared to it. Yu Ziyuan can feel the angry glares directed towards her and forces herself to ignore it. The Heavenly Officials watched on curiously as they noticed the hateful glares sent Yu Ziyuan's way. Something happened before they arrived it seems.

“Aren't you ashamed of what you’re saying?” Jiang Wanyin quietly said, “Father rushed here for you.”

Jiang Cheng looked down at his hands. 'Please don’t let them show my thoughts…'

Sombering from Jiang Wangyin’s words, Wei WuXian began looking around, “Shijie didn’t come, did she?”

Jiang Wanyin, “Why would she come? To see how you lost face for her? If she did come, wouldn’t she already have come to your side and brought you medicine?”

Yu Ziyuan couldn't hold back the snort that escaped her lips and mumbled. "Like she's some servant…" 

Once again sighing, Wei Wuxian looked down to the ground with a frown, “… It’d be nice if Shijie came.” 

Rolling his eyes, Jiang Wanyin smacked Wei Wuxian’s arm. “If you didn’t push me back, I would have balanced out the other side of Jin ZiXuan’s face.”

Once again putting on a smiling face, Wei Wuxian smirked, “Nah. He looks uglier right now, with an asymmetrical face. I heard that he values his face a lot. He’s probably horrified with how he looks right now. Hahahaha…”

Jin Zixuan can feel phantom pains on his face where Wei Wuxian had punched him. Without using spiritual energy, he was pretty strong.

Jiang Wanyin rolled his eyes while Wei WuXian wiped away a tear from laughing so hard, “I should have let you hit him. Then maybe Jiang-shushu wouldn’t have to come. But I had no choice!”

"You're right. He wouldn't have come. He only ever drops everything for the likes of you!" Yu Ziyuan bit out. Her anger barely restrained due to her pain. Why wasn't her golden core healing her arm?

Jiang Fengmian, "San Niang! Enough!"

Jiang Wanyin shrugged. Even though Wei Wuxian’s words were casual, it was unfortunately true. His father never rushed to another sect for something related to him, whether it was big or small. 

Jiang Fengmian was taken back by Jiang Cheng’s thoughts. That's not true. Jiang Cheng had never given him a reason to have to drop everything and rush to his side. The boy may cause trouble with Wei Wuxian but never anything as serious as the trouble Wei Wuxian causes. Does that make it seem like he wouldn’t do the same for his kids?

As if he knew Jiang Wanyin's thoughts were starting to spiral, Wei Wuxian threw an arm around his shoulders. "Go on. You don’t need to stay with me. If Lan Wangji comes back again, you'll get in trouble. If you have time, go sneak a look at Jin Zixuan and describe how idiotic he looks kneeling down to me later!"

A short while later, Wei Wuxian turned around as the sound of pebbles crunching beneath boots drew closer to him and smiled. 

"A-Xian. Come on, let's go home."

Hua Cheng, "What is the punishment for fighting in the Cloud Recesses?"

Lan Xichen, "Depending on the severity and the cause, it ranges from copying of rules, strikes from the discipline rulers, or expulsion."

Hua Cheng, "So they were both expelled?"

Lan Qiren coughed to clear his throat, "Jin-gongzi  was punished with kneeling and copying the rules."

Hua Cheng's narrowed at Lan Qiren, "But A-Ying was expelled. Because of his past transgressions or because you believed he was the cause of the fight?"

Lan Qiren, "Wei Wuxian was the aggressor. It took several senior disciples to pull them apart."

Mu Qing, "So you assumed A-Ying was the instigator and expelled him without question. Well now we know he wasn't."

Xie Lian, "And if it was Jiang Wanyin who had been in the fight instead of A-Ying?"

Lan Qiren, swallowed before answering, "He would have been given the same punishment as Jin-gongzi. The Sect Leaders would have been notified but their presence would not be required."

Feng Xin rolled his eyes, "Should have let Jiang Wanyin punch him, A-Ying. He'd only get a slap on the wrist like the other sect heir over there. What's a little embarrassment if he's defending his sister?"

"I think Gusu Lan needs to review their ancestors' teachings before they stray much further." Baoshan Sanren intoned, displeasure clear in her words.

Night has fallen on the Cloud Recesses as crickets chirped in the night. White boots stopped in front of a small ant hill and a stick was gently stabbed into it. A mass of ants crawled out and began to make its way towards the bait that was already placed on the ground before it.

Wei Ying perked up at the scene. "You went back to see it!"

Lan Zhan, "Mn."

Lan Wangji dropped the stick in his hand when he stepped back as the image zoomed out and more of the ground could be seen. As the ants found the baits, images started to take shape. 

A wolf with his face turned towards the second image.

(Lang)              (Wang)

A chicken.

(JI)

 "You cheeky boy!" Lan Wangji ground out between his clenched teeth and turned to leave.

Once again, Nie Mingjue's laughter was the loudest in the hall. "That's it! I'm adopting you as an honorary member of Qinghe Nie, Wei Wuxian. I'm not taking no for an answer!"

"Good riddance!" muttered Yu Ziyuan under her breath. The rest of the Jiangs frowned at the announcement. Yet another person is claiming the rights to take Wei Wuxian away from Yunmeng Jiang. They can't let that happen.

Chapter Text

The Head Shaker shared a look with Jiang Wanyin, Lan Wangji, and Zewu-jun. Nie Mingjue's easy acceptance of Wei Wuxian, even with the knowledge that he became a demonic cultivator in that future, answered several of their "what if" questions.

What if they had shown that they'd be willing to at least listen to the reasons for Wei Wuxian's actions? They would then have at least a fraction of the knowledge they had today. So many innocent lives would have been spared.

What if they had shown him that he wasn't as alone as he was made to feel? Things wouldn't have ended in so much tragedy. The brotherly bond between Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian wouldn't still be as fragile as it is today.

What if they had insisted on seeing things for themselves instead of just taking the Jins' words at face value? Then the labor camps would have been uncovered sooner and the guilty parties would have been punished instead of civilians being tortured and slaughtered. 

What if they hadn't taken Jin Guangyao's pretty words as truth and allowed it to rile them up? 

What if they had paid more attention to why Wei Wuxian, someone who was so proud and confident in his sword skills that he came off as arrogant, would suddenly no longer carry his sword? 

What if they questioned why Wei Wuxian would suddenly throw his life away to protect any Wens when he had slaughtered so many during the war?

What if… Wei Wuxian never came to Lotus Pier?

Being here in this place and being shown all of their missteps and mistakes… it pulls up painful memories and digs up traitorous feelings. Not just for them… but for Wei Wuxian as well. For the one soul that the cultivation world had, and still is, wronged in so many ways.

Wei Wuxian maintains that he was no saint nor was he completely innocent in his actions. His morality during the Sunshot Campaign was still an uncomfortable debate for many. The rules during wartime and the rules during peacetime were vastly different. 

One can hold on to their morality, humanity, and righteousness during peaceful times. But in wartime… one cannot be in a war and still hold on to their morality. Their righteousness. Their humanity may be barely hanging on by a thread but morality? Righteousness? When you must choose between your death or your enemies'... those ideals take on new meanings. No one can survive the horrors of war and come out the same. No one.

Sunlight glistened across the water filled with both white and pink lotus blooms as a boat tread its surface. A black robed hand dips into the water on the side of the boat. The image moves upwards to show Wei Wuxian staring melancholically out over the water. 

Jiang Fengmian turns a worried glance to his ward from where he stood at the bow of the boat. Wei Wuxian had been quiet since they left the Cloud Recesses. It wasn't like him to be so quiet and still.

Those who knew Wei Wuxian… knew this look well.

The Heavenly Officials and Ghost Kings knew. They'd often catch A-Ying staring off at a point beyond where only he could see and lose himself in his memories when it returned with the last few fragments of his soul.

Gusu Lan knew. Those were the days where Wei Wuxian would be more subdued. The Cloud Recesses would be more silent. Even the birds couldn't find a reason to sing. On those days, the notes of Clarity played in turn on different instruments would float through the air until sunset. Each Junior and Senior disciple is determined to master the song. Because their Wei-qianbei was worth it.

Yunmeng Jiang knew. The private pavillion that once belonged to Yu-furen became off-limits to all but family. Meals were delivered by the elderly cook who was away attending her daughter's first birth when Lotus Pier fell. Although subdued on those days, disciples trained harder and longer. They won't allow anyone to think that Yunmeng Jiang was too weak to defend Wei-qianbei again.

From their seats, the past cultivators observed the sudden shift in the hall. The worried glances thrown towards Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying by the future cultivators spoke volumes. Unease settles deep in their bones as they realize things will only get worse from here.

The sounds of the market floats to them and pulls Jiang Fengmian's attention away. 'Home,' he thought with a smile. 

The beautiful scene of Lotus Pier slowly comes into view as the docks take shape and the many vendors begin to sprout in the horizon. A figure in purple robes stood waiting on the docks. 

Appreciative chatter fills the hall as Jiang Wanyin and Wei Wuxian soak up the view of their childhood memories as tears form.

Ah, Lotus Pier as it's meant to be before it all went wrong. This was the Lotus Pier of their childhood. Even though Jiang Wanyin had rebuilt it to look almost exactly alike, it was never the same Lotus Pier again. Scorched earth and blood stained slabs of rock serve as reminders of the tragedies and violence they'd witnessed. 

Jin Ling watched the changes in scenery with wide awed eyes. This was the Lotus Pier his mother grew up in. The wooden planks that once held her footprints. The street vendors who greeted her with affection and respect. 

Wen Qionglin lowered his head. The last time he saw this Lotus Pier it was in flames. Its occupants piled high without care or respect. Its owners' blood seeped into the ground before he and his men collected their bodies for burial. This was a Lotus Pier that still haunts him.

The viewers watch as, right before their eyes, Wei Wuxian's melancholy is forcefully pushed aside and a bright smile is pasted on his face the moment he recognizes the figure.

"Oh A-Xian…" Jiang Yanli cried out with tears in her eyes. She knew Wei Ying put up a front with everyone but she never knew just how much of his pain he was hiding from her.

Xie Lian once again fists his hand to keep calm. The Jiangs have single-handedly destroyed A-Ying's sense of self worth. It becomes more and more apparent with each scene they watch. As if feeling his agitation, Hua Cheng wrapped an arm around his shoulder and pulled him close. Although his face was calm, Xie Lian could feel Hua Cheng's anger rolling off him in waves.

On the dock, vendors continue on with their day. The melon vendor notices the purple robed figure and calls out. "Jiang-guniang, you're here early! Did you want to try some fresh melons?"

Turning towards the vendor, Jiang Yanli gave him a large smile. "Thank you but that's alright!"

'Beautiful.' Sighed Jin Zixuan. Ouyang Zizhen swore there were hearts in his eyes but Jin Ling cringed at the mere thought of his parents ever acting like his Da-jiu and Hanguang-jun. 

Many of the cultivators have never met Jiang Yanli in person until this moment. All that they knew of her were from rumors and hearsay. That she was no beauty. Rather plain if rumors were to be believed. But in reality, she shone bright around her loved ones. That made her beautiful. Though she seemed weak, her true strength showed in the way she carried herself. In the way that she was able to diffuse many tense moments with mere words. No, Jiang Yanli was not weak.

"SHIJIE!!!"

Surprise showed on Jiang Yanli's face as she watched Wei Wuxian jump up and down in the boat. "A-Xian?" 

"Shijie! I'm back!" Wei Wuxian shouted as he jumped from the boat when it was still a ways away on to the docks. 

Concern clouded Jiang Yanli's face at once, "Watch out, be careful!"

"Shijie! I missed you so much!" Wei Wuxian pouted childishly as he ran up to Jiang Yanli. 

Jin Ling, "What are you? Five?"

Wei Wuxian stuck his tongue out at his nephew, not even bothering to respond with words.

"How old are you to be missing your Shijie after only a few months away?" jokingly chidded Jiang Yanli.

"Xianxian is three!" Wei Wuxian flashed a bright smile while holding up three fingers.

The boys fell over laughing as the female cultivators "awww'd" at the joke.

Lan Jingyi, "Jin Ling! You gave him too much credit. He's three!"

Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying pouted to Lan Zhan and Lan Wangji, "Lan Zhan!!!! They’re making fun of us!"

Lan Wangji swept Wei Wuxian's fringe from his eyes before addressing the boys. "Do not pick on A-Ying."

"Mn, He is only three."  added Lan Zhan. More laughter filled the hall at Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying's outraged gasps.

Chuckling at the long running joke, Jiang Yanli smoothed back a stray hair on his head. "I thought you'd be gone for one whole year? Why are you back so soon?"

Wei Wuxian sheepishly scratched his neck. "I... it's because I missed you too much and wanted to come home!"

Jiang Fengmian smiled fondly at their interaction as he alighted from the boat. He caught the tail end of their conversation and internally cringed as Wei Wuxian requested his lotus soup to be "so spicy it makes you cry".

"A-Die" Jiang Yanli greeted her father as he approached. 

Giving her a smile in response, Jiang Fengmian inquired, "Where is your A-Niang?"

"At... the drill ground."

Involuntary shudders ran through the Jiang and Wei boys. Noticing their reactions, the cultivators quickly became curious as to how Yunmeng Jiang trained their disciples. They're a sect known for their freedom and unrestricted style of fighting. Though they have always been a lively and carefree group at Discussion Conferences, their rankings in competitions remain a testament to their name and proof of why they remain one of the Great Sects.

A sea of purple comes into view as rows upon rows of Yunmeng Jiang disciples line up. Each figure stood in a horse stance with heavy weights in each hand held straight to their sides.

"Hold it!" A commanding voice cuts through the field.

"Yes... Furen."

"If you don’t have the strength to do something as simple as this, how will you fight spirits and monsters? Do you want to run headfirst to your death? Hold it for two more hours!"

"TWO HOURS?!?!"

"H-How long were… were they holding that position before then?" Yao-zongzhu stammered out.

"They were at the three hour mark." Yu Ziyuan replied with a scoff. This was just light training for them.

Nie Huaisang paled at her words. "Jiang-xiong… maybe I shouldn't come to study at Lotus Pier."

"That's fine. Wei Wuxian can train you at the Unclean Realm." Nie Mingjue smirked at his brother as he paled even more.

A scowling Yu Ziyuan comes into view, perched on a chair on the dais overlooking the drill ground. Her thumb absentmindedly twirling a purple ring decorated in lightning bolts.

"You should be focusing on improving your skills instead of fooling around and taking after that good-for-nothing Wei Wuxian!"

Behind Yu Ziyuan stood her two maids, Yinzhu and Jinzhu. Both maids sported identical scowls as their master.

"We sent him to Gusu to learn and he still managed to cause trouble and cause Yunmeng Jiang to lose face. Are you still going to follow his lead?"

The atmosphere in the hall suddenly dropped several degrees as frowns made its way onto the Immortal Beings' faces. The cultivators sat uneasy in their seats at the sudden shift.

Hoping to cut off her mother’s tirade, Jiang Yanli hurried to greet her mother. "A-Niang."

"Yanli." Yu Ziyuan's eyes softened at the sight of her daughter before narrowing again at the sight of Wei Wuxian mid bow behind her husband and daughter. "Yu Furen." 

"San Niang, haste makes waste. The level of cultivation these children can reach is their own destiny. If you push them too hard, it may be detrimental."

Nods and murmurs of agreements followed Jiang Fengmian's words. A cultivator's skill is directly related to their own abilities. 

"While it is beneficial to push their limits, too much and too fast will cause irreparable injury or worse, qi deviation." warned Lan Qiren. 

Rage built in her chest at his words. "Always defending them, that's why they won't achieve anything! Especially Wei Wuxian! He picks fights with others and you clean up his mess. Such impudence!"

Wei Wuxian flinched and looked to the ground at the mention of his name. He and Jiang Yanli mentally prepared themselves for the age-old fights.

Mu Qing, "I don't know about you… but I'm getting awfully tired of hearing A-Ying's name pulled into every argument."

Pei Xiu, "How old was A-Ying when they brought him to Lotus Pier?"

Ling Wen, "He was nine. He's 15 here."

Feng Xin, "We're already tired of their arguments and we've only been here for a few hours. A-Ying's been enduring this for at least six years. Ling Wen, help him ascend already!"

Shi Qingxuan, "He can be the new Wind Master!"

"NO!!!" 

Jolted from their seats at the Heavenly Officials and Ghost Kings' shouts, the cultivators turned confused eyes towards them.

"Did you forget the last time you let A-Ying hold your fan after I fixed it… again? Five towns were under water. Five!!!" He Xuan asked.

Feng Xin, "30 of my temples are still being rebuilt from that spectacle! No, thank you."

Mu Qing huffed, "I'm still pulling arrows out of the training fields and the Martial Gods' palaces near it."

Hua Cheng, "Nope. I'm still rounding up dispersed ghosts from my dungeons. A-Ying is not allowed anywhere near the Wind Master’s Fan. Ever."

Mu Qing, "No Meteor Hammer."

Ling Wen, "No Wuse Bi."

Xie Lian, "I've already hidden the Yu Pipa."

The list grew as the Heavenly Officials and Ghost Kings continued on.

Pei Ming, "No bricks." 

Wait...Bricks????

Wei Wuxian nervously chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck at the shocked gapes he received. "In my defense… I was a 10 year old ghost boy."

Lan Sizhui chuckled, "It's a good thing that Hanguang-jun built your workshop in the back hills then."

"Thankfully the Cloud Recesses is still standing in one piece." Lan-xiansheng sighed to the amusement of the Lans.

Wen Qing, "Looks like we'll have to Wei Wuxian-proof everything from now on."

"San Niang!"

"What? Am I wrong? He's always messing around and now he has disgraced us in Gusu! He knows that Yanli and Zixuan are engaged but he still fought with Zixuan!"

Eyes turned to Jin Zixuan, making him blush. "Sorry..."

Quick to intervene, Jiang Yanli pulled her mother’s attention to her. "A-Niang, don't be angry. They said Jiang Cheng is doing well in Gusu. Even Lan-xiansheng praised him."

"That boy… At least he didn't let us down. Jinzhu, Yinzhu, let's go." Yu Ziyuan's features softened at the mention of her son before turning to leave the drill ground.

"Shijie to the rescue!" cheered Wei Ying as Jiang Yanli giggled into her sleeve. 

Jiang Wanyin and Jiang Cheng watched the cloth in awe. 'Was… was that… a compliment? From A-Niang?'

It was obvious that Yu Ziyuan loved her children. Her demeanor changes when she focuses solely on them. It softens her a little. It's the beauty of a mother's love.

The Jiang disciples maintained their bows until Yu Ziyuan was no longer in sight. They eye Wei Wuxian and Jiang Fengmian as if gauging whether it was ok to approach or not.

Chuckling in amusement at his disciples' antics, Jiang Fengmian cleared his throat. "Your shidis haven't seen you for a while. Go and greet them."

Not needing further encouragement, the disciples' faces brightened before Wei Wuxian tackled the first disciples in his way with glee. "Did you miss me?"

Nie Mingjue smiled at the joy on Wei Wuxian's face. "It's very obvious that he loves them."

"DA-SHIXIONG!" 

The drill ground shook as ecstatic disciples pounced and piled on Wei Wuxian. Play fighting soon ensued as Wei Wuxian "fought" the younger disciples.

Lan Xichen chuckled, "And they love him just as much."

Lan Sizhui sighed happily, "He loves their company. This is how he is around all the disciples. His 'Ducklings' as he likes to call us."

"Did they also punish you like this in Cloud Recesses?" 

Wei Wuxian, "No, even worse! They made me copy books!"

That earned a couple chuckles and coos. Some agreed, they'd rather endure physical punishment than have to sit and copy text.

"Did you meet Lan Wangji?"

"Is he really as good as they say?"

Wei Wuxian, "He's as good as they say, if not better! We are neck to neck in skill! It's amazing!"

"They say he can freeze people if they get too close. Is that true?"

Chuckling at the disciples' question, Wei Wuxian ruffled one of the junior disciples' hair. "He's just a man, not some monster!"

Lan Zhan's ears turned red as happiness spread through his chest. 'Wei Ying.'

"Do they really have 3,000 house rules?"

Wei Wuxian, "It's true! They even cut them on a huge rock in seal script! It was hard to read so I didn't bother."

The barrage of questions continued as they exited the drill ground to prepare for dinner.

Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying watched on with heavy hearts. The image of their shidis' bodies piled on top of each other overlaps with their smiling faces in their minds. 

Jiang Cheng felt a twinge of jealousy in his chest. Though they all train and spend time together, the shidis weren't as close to him as they were to Wei Wuxian. His temperament isn't the only thing to blame. His insecurities played a part as well. 

The position of Head Disciple is normally taken up by the heir. But in Yunmeng Jiang, one's skills are the deciding factors, not one's right to inherit. Hence, Wei Wuxian was Head Disciple. He was just better. In skills. In learning. In making friends. In embodying the sect moto.

Hours later as the sun slowly set over the calm waters of the Lotus Pier, the figure of Jiang Fengmian approached the pavilion where Yu Ziyuan sat. "San Niang."

"It's late, what are you doing here?" Yu Ziyuan asked without looking towards Jiang Fengmian. 

Jiang Fengmian let out a sigh. Looks like there are really no private moments in this viewing. Though it was no secret that their marriage is rock, for others to witness and possibly judge their actions… it felt jarring.

Jiang Fengmian stopped before the table. "I went to your room looking for you but Jinzhu said I'd find you here."

Yu Ziyuan continued to look out into the water as she sipped from her tea cup. "What did you need?"

Though the surrounding was peaceful, there was still a palpable tension. 

Jiang Fengmian slid a jewelry box on the table towards Yu Ziyuan. Barely glancing at the box, Yu Ziyuan smirked condescendingly over the rim of her tea cup.. "You know I don't care for jewelry."

With a sigh. Jiang Fengmian opened the box to reveal a beautiful dark green jade hair pin before taking a seat. "This hairpin is of good quality and quite beautiful so I bought it for you."

Liu Rushi could smack her friend then and there. Here was Yu Ziyuan's husband, the man she adamantly claims holds no affection for her, buying her a beautiful hair pin. He knew it suited her so he bought it. But here she was… rejecting such a gesture like it was dirt under her fingers without even taking a glance at it.

Several silent moments passed before Jiang Fengmian let out a breath and spoke. "San Niang, Jin-zongzhu and I discussed Yanli and Jin Zixuan's engagement while we were in Gusu."

"That was no discussion. It was manipulation on Jin Guangshan's part to throw all the blame on you." Yu Ziyuan ground out as she angrily glared at the heap of golden robes on the ground.

It looks like no one's going to help the man up from the ground. Good.

Side glancing at Jiang Fengmian, Yu Ziyuan interrupted, "Rushi and I arranged their marriage since they were little. Is there a problem?"

Anticipating an argument, Jiang Fengmian took a breath and pressed on. "Jin-zongzhu and I have decided to call off the engagement."

Finally giving Jiang Fengmian her full attention, Yu Ziyuan rounded on her husband. "WHAT!?!? Why would you do that?"

Jiang Fengmian, "All this time, seeing Yanli, I thought the two loved each other. But it seems I was wrong. We shouldn't force them."

"Yanli and Zixuan have met several times throughout the years. It's obvious she likes him. Did Zixuan say something rude? He's too young to understand things now. Zixuan will realize what a good girl Yanli is after he gets to know her. His mother and I are good friends and our families have always been allies from the beginning. Their marriage with cement our alliance with Lanling Jin." Yu Ziyuan spoke as she turned her attention back to the water.

It was no secret that Meishan Yu and Ya'an Liu were fearsome allies. While Meishan Yu boasted first class spiritual weapons, Ya'an boasted the best teas and medicinal herbs all around. Due to their sect's unwavering alliance, Yu Ziyuan and Liu Rushi grew up together and eventually became sworn sisters. 

An alliance with one meant an alliance with both sects. What Jin Guangshan failed to remember was, an alliance with Yunmeng Jiang came with Meishan Yu in tow. In snubbing Yunmeng Jiang, an alliance with Meishan Yu is now off the table. Their first class spiritual weapons are no longer made available to Lanling Jin.

Jiang Fengmian, "Marriage means spending their lives together. If they don't love each other but they're forced to be together just for their families' interests-"

Yu Ziyuan again cuts him off. "Just like us, right?"

Once again exhausted with having the same arguments, Jiang Fengmian attempted to de-escalate the situation. "San Niang, you know that's not what I meant."

"Wei Ying, that ungrateful brat! Always causing trouble wherever he goes!" Yu Ziyuan shouted.

"What?" several confused voices asked.

Nie Mingjue also voiced his confusion, "What exactly does Wei Wuxian have to do with why those two shouldn't be forced to get married?"

Lan Xichen, "I don't quite understand either…"

"Again… you are blaming him for everything." Jiang Fengmian shook his head.

Slamming her teacup on the table, Yu Ziyuan stood from her seat. "Shouldn't I blame him?!? None of this would have happened if he hadn't fought with Zixuan! You've favored him since the day you brought him here! If it was Jiang Cheng who had been in the fight, would you have rushed to Gusu? No you wouldn't!"

The Head Shaker, "Why are you constantly comparing those two when you can't make your point? What does Jiang-zongzhu's supposed favoring of Ying-ge have anything to do with whether or not he would rush to The Cloud Recesses if it was Cheng-ge who got into a fight? Lan-xiansheng demanded their presence post haste so they both came. If Lan-xiansheng had only suggested he come, I highly doubt he would even make the trip. It wasn't about who was in the fight but how his presence was requested."

Unable to stand the man's disrespect, Yu Ziyuan stood to her feet. "What we discuss is between my husband and I. How dare you address me in that manner. I will not have a child speak to me in that tone."

The Head Shaker, "You seem to forget that this child you're speaking down to is the Sect Leader of Qinghe Nie. I have tried to be respectful as you are my sworn brother, Cheng-ge's mother. However, your mistreatment of Ying-ge, my eldest sworn brother, now nullifies any societal obligations I have towards you. Get over yourself."

Seeing Nie Mingjue's thunderous glare directed at her, Yu Ziyuan realized her mouth had landed her into trouble once again. Scoffing to hide her discomfort, Yu Ziyuan sat back down beside Jiang Fengmian. 

"We're sworn brothers!?!?!" asked Nie Huaisang, Jiang Cheng, and Wei Ying in unison. 

"After a few ups and downs, yes. Now you just drive Shufu crazy with your monthly… ah… get togethers in Caiyi. Emperor’s Smiles in tow, of course." Zewu-jun chuckled along with their older counterparts at their shock. 

Jiang Fengmian, "San Niang!"

Yu Ziyuan scoffed at Jiang Fengmian as she turned to leave, "This time he got between Yanli and Zixuan. Who knows what troubles he will cause next time? But that's alright, isn't it? You'll be there to clean up after him!" An ugly sneer appeared on her face before she began to walk away. 

Displeased, Baoshan Sanren eyed Yu Ziyuan. "So you are placing blame on the boy because you couldn't stand losing an argument. Just like how you place the blame on him for every wrong you perceived."

"It wouldn't matter what kind of trouble comes along, it would still be Wei Wuxian's fault in her eyes." Observed Wen Qing. Wen Ning nodded in agreement at her side. Knowing what they knew of Wen Rouhan and his sons, they would exploit that for their own purposes. 

Across the pavilion, Wei Wuxian stood hidden behind a pillar. Heart heavy and head bowed as he watched the two Yunmeng leader's interaction. 'Good job Wei Wuxian. You caused another fight.'

"It would have still happened eventually." Jiang Wanyin explained. "Jin Zixuan's behavior and attitude towards A-Jie became worse during the war. He and Wei Wuxian would have come to blows one way or another. If anything, I would have joined him if I weren't the Sect Leader."

Jiang Wanyin looked Jin Zixuan in the eyes for several moments, "You were an ass. You humiliated A-Jie and made her cry. Wei Wuxian knocked some much needed sense into you a few more times before A-Jie forgave you."

"And I'll do it again, even knowing you two will end up together. Make Shijie cry and I'll rearrange your ugly face." Wei Ying threatened. 

Jin Zixuan held up both hands in surrender as he nodded in agreement. "I swear I'll do whatever it takes to make her happy!" earning him scoff from the brothers.

Turning on his heel, Wei Wuxian made his way back to his room. Passing a courtyard along the way, he notices Jiang Yanli quietly contemplating at the stone table. 'Shijie…'

His right foot was halfway down one step before he stopped and pulled it back. His heart tugged painfully knowing he was the cause for her broken engagement. 'I don't deserve to appear before Shijie…' 

This displeased Jiang Yanli.  Her brothers should always feel it's his right to appear before her.

Before he could turn around and leave, Jiang Yanli called out to him. "A-Xian, is that you?"

Having been caught, Wei Wuxian made his way towards Jiang Yanli with his head bowed. "Shijie. I'm sorry... I-"

"Silly…" Jiang Yanli stopped his words. "It isn't your fault."

Wei Wuxian still didn’t raise his head. "... I made you sad."

"A-Xian, sit down first." Jiang Yanli pat the seat next to her telling Wei Wuxian to sit down.

Once Wei Wuxian was seated, Jiang Yanli began to pour tea for him and herself. They took a moment to savor the tea before she spoke again. "Ever since I can remember, A-Niang has told me Jin Zixuan would be my future husband. Though I've only met him a few times, a man full of charisma like him is hard not to like. Recently, I've been really thinking about things between us. I realized... I didn't love him as much as I had thought. I mean, I could see myself spending my life with him. But if we don't love each other…"

Her words pierced Jin Zixuan's heart. He caused her to feel this way.

"Shijie…" Wei Wuxian still did not lift his head to look at Jiang Yanli.

Jiang Yanli, "He must have said something unpleasant about me, right?"

Wei Wuxian turned his face away from Jiang Yanli as he pouted, "He didn't. I just... don't like him so I punched him...that's all."

Signing outwardly, Jiang Yanli patted Wei Wuxian's head. "A-Xian. We grew up together, I know you too well. You can't fool me. You never hit people just because you don't like them. Although Jin Zixuan is great, I'm willing to wait for a man who truly loves me so I can spend my life with him."

Ouyang Zizhen whispered, "Yao-zongzhu and my father would have been beaten to a pulp 100 times over already if Wei-qianbei goes around beating people he doesn't like."

Lan Jingyi rolled his eyes, "They would have been if Wei-qianbei was in the hall that day they questioned if Hanguang-jun should be allowed to be Chief Cultivator if he's willing to let Wei-qianbei 'corrupt' the juniors."

Jin Ling faced his father, "Even when he hates you, he doesn't disparage you when you deserve it. He'll protect A-Niang from your disdain but he'll also allow her to make her own choices regarding her happiness. That's how he shows his love."

Lan Sizhui, "Mn. He'll shield and protect you but he won't suffocate you with it."

"Like a big angry umbrella!" shouted Ouyang Zizhen. When he got no reply, he looked to find his friends looking at him like he's grown an extra head. "You know… he shields and protects you but doesn't suffocate like what an umbrella is for when it rains. And he gets angry when people hurt you… so big angry… umbrella?"

Lan Jingyi, "Why are we friends with him again?" Gaining shrugs from Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui. 

Ouyang Zizhen pouts, "GUYS!!!!"

"Shijie… Jin Zixuan will never be good enough for you. He's spoiled and so vain. You deserve someone much better than him!" Wei Wuxian adamantly declared. 

'Shijie will find a man that loves her as much as she loves him and then A-Cheng and I will give her the grandest wedding that puts those Jins to shame! Teach them to look down on Yunmeng Jiang!"

'This truly feels like an invasion of privacy. I'm afraid this wasn't what we intended when Shufu and I created the array.' Zewu-jun let out a sigh.

"You and Shufu created the array, Xichen-ge?" Asked an incredulous Wei Wuxian. Zewu-jun looked up to find shocked eyes directed at him.

"Oh… did I say that out loud?"

Chapter Text

Leaving the sneak peak for the drama.

Thanks for sticking it out with me! ^_^

Unedited Sneak Peak:

Jiang Wanyin hastily untied his top from around his waist and pulled it on while the disciples scrambled to grab their tops. Yu Ziyuan's ire suddenly turned to Wei Wuxian.

"Wei Ying! Do you want to die!?"

Wei Wuxian flinched, "I'm sorry, Madam Yu! I didn’t know Shijie would come looking for us! I’ll go get changed right now!"

Yu Ziyuan became even angrier, "You dare run? Come back right now and kneel!"

Purple lightning slashed across the screen. 

A painful scream ripped through the hall as all the viewer's horrified eyes focused on Yu Ziyuan's trembling form on the ground before them. Purple lightning streaks begin to appear on Yu Ziyuan's back. Before anyone could react, their attention is pulled back to the cloth by a muted grunt.

Wei Wuxian stumbled but caught himself as streaks of purple lightning branched out from a large slash running diagonally on his back.

Chapter Text

“Xichen-ge?”

“A-Xian.” Lan-xiansheng breathed out a sigh before continuing. “Although it has been several decades since these events took place, Xichen and I… We still have our regrets. I know you have forgiven us because it is in your nature to forgive. But we could not forgive ourselves. My inaction and narrow mindedness indirectly contributed to your death and Wangji's scars.”

“Shufu-” Wei Wuxian began but was cut off.

“No one has lost more than you, A-Xian." Zewu-jun looked at his brother-in-law sadly. "No one has given more of themselves nor sacrificed more. All you received in return was scorn, disdain, and injustice. Yet, you still forgave and saved us after you returned." 

The Jiangs' attention was diverted to Jiang Wanyin as they tried to make out what he was mumbling under his breath, "...stupid idiot...sacrifices...stupid plans...no sense...self preservation...always injured...break his damn legs."

Lan-xiansheng, "You took the young disciples under your wing and protected them although their sects called for your death time and time again. Even when the Jin's treachery was exposed and your innocence proven, the older generations still did not change their ways. The attempt on Wangji and A-Xian’s lives by the remnants of Jin Guangyao's followers and the Moling Su Sect showed us that things needed to change."

Suddenly Meng Yao and Su She found themselves the focus of the time travelers' hateful glares. 

'The way they're glaring at me. Is that me? Jin… Guangyao? Instead of Zi yao… to keep me out of the line of succession. I got Father's acceptance like I promised A-Niang. But judging by their words and glares, I must have done something terrible to receive it.'

'Why are they glaring like that? He's just the son of a servant. So what if I pushed him off. They have no proof. Did they expect me to just let myself get swallowed up by that Abyss? Moling Su Sect? I've never heard of them. Maybe I founded my own sect-?'

"Moling Su Sect? I do not recall a sect by that name." Jiang Fengmian's question brought Su She out of his thoughts as the remaining sect leaders asked each other the same question. If Yunmeng Jiangs were to protect A-Xian, he would need to know who the enemies are.

"Su Mingshan founded his own sect based on the musical techniques and teachings of Gusu Lan in Moling with the help of Jin Guangyao after the war." Answered Lan Sizhui. 

"After he was expelled from Gusu Lan for giving up additional sect secrets to Wen Xu to save his own life. It’s embarrassing when people realize he was once a Gusu Lan disciple." Lan Jingyi scoffed before throwing a disgusted look Su She’s way. All the blood drained from Su She's face. That explained the Lan's disgusted looks...

"I can’t imagine Xichen was too happy with Jin Guangyao's decision to help the traitor." Nie Mingjue commented.

"No, but it was not my place to interfere with the affairs of Lanling Jin." Zewu-jun replied. 

"Why would he help a traitor build a sect?"

"Maybe he didn't know?"

"Oh! He was doing it to curry favor and gain supporters!"

"Not only was he a traitor, he's a thief too!."

"Stealing another sect's secrets and teachings to build your own sect. Despicable."

"He was willing to sacrifice someone else’s life to save his own… why are you even surprised?"

"Their horrible playing made my ears bleed once. I always carried cotton to stuff into my ears in case I ever encountered them after that." Ouyang Zizhen grimaced. The statement caused several to laugh.

"Ungrateful assbutt." Jin Ling spat out as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Assbutt?" The cultivators mouthed to each other in confusion. Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin chuckled at their nephew. Looks like he inherited his father's awkward use of curse words.

"You may not have done all the things your future self did yet but from what we've already been shown, you were rotten even before you met Jin Guangyao." Lan Sizhui spoke up again.

Meng Yao felt the anger rolling off of the cultivator next to him. He was now curious as to what the cultivator did to gain the ire of Gusu Lan's disciplined masters and the other sects.

Indignation flared in Su She's chest. "Who do you think you are to speak about me in such a tone? Is this how you speak to your Senior! You are arrogant little pricks just like Lan Wangji! You disrespectful vermin are unworthy to even lick my boots!!"

Su She found himself lifted into the air as his neck was painfully squeezed by tendrils of resentful energy. Frantically trying to free himself from the chokehold, Su She thrashed about. A red-eyed Wei Wuxian stood before Su She with a smirk. With a flick of his wrist, Wei Wuxian sent Su She smashing into the ceiling before being slammed into the ground. Wei Ying stared at his future self with wide unbelieving eyes. 'A flick... A goddamn flick!"

More black tendrils wrap around Su She's arms and legs to suspend him face up off the ground. Wei Wuxian's smirk grew. "I've been wanting to do this since they dropped you here."

SNAP! Su She cried out in pain as his arms were pulled outwards until they broke at the elbows. 

SNAP! The cultivators flinched at the sound of bones breaking, this time at the shoulders.

"That was for disrespecting my husband."

SNAP! Another pained scream as his legs are pulled until they break at the knees. 

SNAP! Phantom pains now plague the cultivators as they watch his legs break at the hips. Scared to bring the man's wrath on themselves. 

"That was for calling my little ducklings vermin." Wei Wuxian threw over his shoulders as he casually walked back to his seat. "Don’t worry… there's more where that came from, saved especially for you."

Shock and fear was palpable through the hall. Wei Wuxian's display of power did not go unnoticed by Jin Guangshan who had regained consciousness when Su She hit the ceiling. This power the boy possessed… he needs it.

Lan Jingyi laughed as he crossed his arms over his chest to look down at Su She. "You are not qualified to be our senior."

"Jingyi." Lan Wangji called out, causing Lan Jingyi to halt his laughter and bow to Hanguang-jun nervously. Lan Wangji hid a smirk at Lan Jingyi's familiar rejoinder before speaking again. "Deduct 20."

"Thank you, Hanguang-jun!" Lan Jingyi happily replied as he squealed internally. ' The Gods have heard my prayers!' Chuckles from the Heavenly Gods made Jingyi freeze and nervously laugh. 'Oh shit… they heard me because they're right here!'

"Su Mingshan, your actions against Wei Wuxian while he was rescuing you from the Waterborne Abyss is abhorrent. Gusu Lan does not tolerate such scheming and treacherous behaviors. Once we return, you will collect your belongings and vacate the premises. You are expelled and banished from Gusu from here on out." Lan Qiren announced. Using the scene that was still fresh on everyone's minds, this gave them the perfect validation. 

"You can't banish me based on some illusions! I do not accept that ruling! You have no evidence!" Su She yelled from where he stood before his chair.

Nie Mingjue, "We as a whole have accepted that the events depicted here are in fact true. Qinghe Nie will support Lan-xiansheng's ruling."

Jin Zixuan, "Lanling Jin will also support Lan-xiansheng's ruling."

Jiang Fengmian, "Yunmeng Jiang also supports Lan-xiansheng's ruling. Su She is also banished from Yunmeng Jiang for the attempt to harm our Head Disciple." For once, Yu Ziyuan was in agreement with banishment only because she refuses to allow the schemer to step foot on their land.

Su She slumps in pain and defeat as the remaining sect leaders all offer their support alongside the Great Sects. Meng Yao remained silent as he continued to study everyone in the hall. His father was once again slumped over in his seat but his wounds didn't seem to be healing.

Nodding his head in approval to his counterpart, Lan-xiansheng continued to explain. "It wasn't until A-Ling returned A-Xian's notes that we began to form a plan."

A-Ling? Just how close was everyone in this future of theirs? Even the no-nonsense Lan-xiansheng is calling the Jin boy so intimately.

Perking up at the mention of his notes, Wei Ying turned excitedly to Wei Wuxian. "Notes? You wrote notes about time travel?" Before Wei Wuxian could answer, Wei Ying turned to Lan-xiansheng. "You used Big Me’s notes to make the array? How many tries did it take? What elements did you include? How long does the array last for?"

Lan-xiansheng shook his head in amusement as the time travelers and Immortals laughed at Wei Ying's eagerness and questioning. Lan Zhan pulled Wei Ying’s sleeve to pull him back down into his chair.

Wei Wuxian sighed, "Those notes were the ramblings of a mad man writing like he was running out of time. Most of it shouldn't have existed in the first place. So much could have been avoided if I had taken the time to properly shield them from outsiders."

“You are so much like your mother that I sometimes forget that Wei Changze was your father. While your mother easily forgives and forgets, your father internalizes his emotions and hurts. Taking blame when it was not his to take.” Lan-xiansheng spoke softly. Jiang Fengmian took a breath in to steady himself as he knew the following conversation will be a hard one.

Lan-xiansheng, "Yes, they should have been shielded and some shouldn't have even existed. The fact that you had all that knowledge and the power to carry it out in revenge but never did is proof of your character. As we will all see… that same knowledge in another’s hand almost brought an end to the cultivation world due to their greed."

Jin Ling. "After the events at the Guanyin Temple, I began to clear out the Treasure Room at Jinling Tai. There were artifacts and records that dated back to Jin Guangshan’s time as Sect Leader. When I found Da-jiu's notes, I also found Jin Guangyao's notes on their… experiments. Although they were written in his hand, they were all approved with Jin Guangshan’s seal. He had ordered them even before the Sunshot Campaign had ended. Lists of names, ages, and genders. Torture methods. Amounts of deaths. Causes of those deaths. The level of pain exacted. Most of them were Wens but several were beggars they plucked from the street or slaves they bought from traffickers. All because they wanted the power that Da-jiu possessed. I had never been more disgusted to be called a Jin."

The more Jin Ling spoke, the angrier everyone became. The level of depravity was staggering. This was a Sect Leader of one of the Great Sects. Someone of means and power.

This, however, got them thinking it was a curse to be amongst one of the Great Sects. Lan-zongzhu secluded himself and his wife away even before their kids were born. The reason behind it was still a mystery to everyone including the Lan disciples themselves. Elder Nie-zongzhu suspiciously suffered a Qi Deviation during a night hunt and was killed by the beast when his saber broke. The same saber Sect Leader Wen touched earlier that week. It is rumored all the Sect Leaders of Qinghe Nie died or will die from Qi Deviation.

Jiang-zongzhu silently endures his wife's criticisms and insecurities. He turns a blind eye towards his children and the unjust abuse of his ward while also showing favoritism towards him. Sect Leader Wen is merciless, power hungry, and just about declared war against everyone. His power as Chief Cultivator went to his head and he craved more. 

But the worst of them all had to be Jin-zongzhu. If they're to believe what they're being shown, then he has also raped and abused women of all status and ranks. Jin-zongzhu ordered the torture and murders of countless innocent lives for a dangerous power that did not belong to him.

If this was what it meant to be a Great Sect, their small mundane lives were far more appealing and safe.

Jin Zixuan, "Would you be able to give me a list of what you found and where they would be located? It will help your Nainai and I deal with the Sect Elders when we return."

Jin Ling nodded but Jiang Wanyin spoke before he could continue. "The Elders are aware of everything, do not let them convince you otherwise. After the second assassination attempt on his life, I refused to allow Jin Ling to be at Jinling Tai without me. He lived at Lotus Pier until his 10th birthday. Looking back on it later, I realized Jin Guangyao was too eager and accommodating to have A-Ling off his hands."

"A-Li and A-Ling will never have to fear for their lives at Jinling Tai. I will rid that place of every snake. Family or not, Lanling Jin will not fall to depravity." Jin Zixuan angrily announced. Realizing what he had called Jiang Yanli, he sputtered as Yanli giggled.

Ouyang Zizhen and Lan Jingyi shook their heads. Ouyang Zizhen clicked his tongue, "They are definitely father and son…"

"Mn."

"Using your notes on Empathy and time disbursement as well as your more recent findings on the functions of the Mo Incense Burner, we had intended to pull the past cultivators who had a deep connection to you into a dream-like state to present them with the events of the future." Lan-xiansheng carried on.

Wei Wuxian hid his red face against his husband's chest as Lan Wangji's lip twitched slightly upwards. Wei Wuxian's face grew even more red as Lan Wangji bent his head to whisper in his ear. Now, Wei Ying is intrigued. 'Mo Incense Burner, huh?"

Zewu-jun, "Even if they didn't believe what they saw, at least they will be given a seed of doubt should events play out as they did before. At least for myself, I knew it would have been. However, hearing others' thoughts and… fantasies, were not part of the array. Neither was it meant to bring anyone that didn’t have a deep connection with A-Xian. We don't know what changed."

“That would be our doing. Though we didn’t factor in the…uh... private moments.” Baoshan Sanren spoke up. “Taizi Dianxia, Hua Chengzhu, and I wanted to right the wrongs that fell upon A-Ying. To give him a chance at a better life."

"As we said earlier, we found the array in Qishan." Explained Xie Lian. "After studying the array, we concluded that the array was meant to send those who were connected to A-Ying in the past into a confined space to be shown memories of their future."

Hua Cheng, "We made several modifications to the array to bring their future selves into the confinement and viewing as well. Jiang-guniang and the Wen's deaths weighed heavily on A-Ying. We knew he would appreciate seeing them alive again."

Ling Wen, "Using the scrolls we had at Ling Wen's Palace regarding arrays, the Heavenly Officials searched to find ways to make things as safe as possible with no negative impacts to your Golden Cores unless specifically altered by a Taizi Dianxia or Hua Chengzhu."

Unease filtered through the hall as the Cultivators witnessed Crimson Rain's smirk grow wide at the last statement. It was then that they remembered he and Blackwater had left and came back a few times. 

"Did...Did they make adjustments to the array? Is that why my Golden Core isn't healing my arm?" Asked Yu Ziyuan even though she already knew the answer.

"Yes. A-Ying can't be the only one suffering all the pain by himself now can he?" Hua Cheng replied in a bored tone. The Immortals only smirked as realization dawned on the cultivators. If their Golden Cores were rendered useless in healing, they will have to rely on Wen-yishi to heal them. It'll be better to stay in her good graces then!

Lan Zhan frowned in concern. "Will Wei Ying's injuries not heal either then?"

"No, if anything his healing had sped up the last time I checked his bandaging. As if he's connected to his future self's Golden Core and it's aiding the healing process" Wen Qing replied to Lan Zhan's relief. Wen Qing eyed Wei Wuxian again, still trying to wrap her mind around it.

"Cangse had been working on several theories regarding time disbursement so when I saw that element in the array, I knew A-Ying had the same ideas as his mother." Baoshan Sanren said as she watched her grandsons perk up at their mother's name.

Wei Wuxian, "A-Niang theorized about time as well? Was she theorizing on how to improve Empathy and Inquiry as well? What about counteracting the effects of resentful energies on naturally occurring precious metals? Do you think I can get any of her notes? I would love to pick her brains about some of my theories!"

Chuckling at her grandson, Baoshan Sanren pulled a package from her sleeves. "I knew you would want your mother's notes, they are yours to keep."

Both Wei Ying and Wei Wuxian ran up to Baoshan Sanren and reverently took the package from her before returning to their seats to go through the notes. 

Nie Huaisang, "So, Xichen-ge and Lan-xiansheng came up with the array using Wei-xiong's notes. Then Taizi Dianxia, Hua Chengzhu, and Baoshan Sanren altered it using Wei-xiong's mother's notes."

Without realizing it, his younger self was giving himself away. He was now too invested in the mystery to hide his intellect behind his fan. Nie Mingjue was looking at his younger brother with new eyes if the incredulous look on his face was any indication. 

The Head Shaker smirked at Nie Huaisang. "Not realizing the array was changed, Xichen-ge and Shufu sent us and the boys to Qishan under the guise of a night hunt. When we got close enough, the array activated and brought us here."

Nie Huaisang, "So that means the second array appeared when that one activated? But Wei-xiong saw it even before the archery competition started. Was there a delay somehow?"

Wei Wuxian, "It may have taken the array a while to pinpoint me in the past considering I was in a different body with a different Golden Core. It would have had to search out a secondary anchor tied to my soul that existed in both timelines…" His voice trailed as his eyes met Jiang Wangyin’s. Oh. "Well now that we know how we got here… let's go back to the viewing so we can get out sooner!"

Noticing Wei Wuxian's sudden drop of the topic, the Immortals narrowed their eyes. The future cultivators all had varying looks of discomfort and regret on their faces. Curious.

Jin Ling, "But wait though… I returned his notes ages ago. Why now?"

Zewu-jun looked to his uncle before Lan-xiansheng spoke. "Though our bonds have been healing, there was still a sense that things were not completely right. A-Xian was never his true self in front of anyone but Wangji or the boys. Xichen and I have only caught glimpses of the carefree boy he used to be when they thought no one else was around."

Zewu-jun, "Though Wangji said he forgave us, he was colder and more unyielding in front of the Elders. They had hurt him and Shufu and I had allowed it to happen. My blind trust in someone I considered a sworn brother over the words of my own brother destroyed the unconditional trust Wangji had in me. We would give up anything to erase their pains and hurts.”

‘ Wangji has learned how far your respect and love for me extended three decades ago.’ Lan Xichen was shocked to hear the extent his relationship with his brother had deteriorated but Wangji’s words rang loud in his mind. ‘Huaisang said I believed Jin Guangyao's words over his and Wangji's. Could it be…?’

Sparing a glance at Meng Yao, Lan Xichen spoke to his future self, “You said you took the words of your sworn brother over that of Wangji’s. What was it regarding?”

Zewu-jun closed his eyes as if answering the question pained him. “Huaisang and Wangji did not believe the rumors regarding A-Xian’s… change in cultivation and temperament. Though Wangji was confused and frustrated with not being able to help, he believed A-Xian’s actions had valid reasons. They both pleaded with Da-ge and I to not believe the lies. To go see the truth for ourselves. Wangji was more concerned that the resentful energy was wreaking havoc on his body and heart than A-Xian hurting others. But I chose to believe someone I thought would never lie to me.”

Lan Xichen, “And my… our sworn brother?”

Zewu-jun froze for a moment as he looked towards Nie Mingjue and Meng Yao. He had refused to look their way as it hurt to see them alive before him. One he unknowingly helped kill and the other he stabbed with Shouyue. Nie Mingjue caught the flash of pain that crossed Zewu-jun’s features. His eyebrows furrowed as he ran through the words his brother spoke of earlier.

Zewu-jun, “He perpetrated those rumors."

"And Da-ge? What did he do?" Nie Huaisang reluctantly asked. He was afraid of what the answer would be.

"His resentment of the Wen surname blinded him from believing there were any truly innocent lives nor those who were threatened into submission. He refused to hear anything in defense of Wei Wuxian. The only person who knew me and accepted me anyway. I refused to speak to Da-ge for months after he returned from the siege of the Burial Mounds. He had helped to kill my best friend. He refused to listen to his own brother and condemned an innocent man to his death without even trying to find all the facts!" The Head Shaker screamed.

"A-Sang…" Wei Wuxian tried to comfort his sworn brother. Jiang Wanyin walked over to place a hand on his shoulder. 

"Jin Guangyao's incitement caused a further rift between us. After Jin Guangyao oh so graciously sent us a gift of new brushes, Da-ge went into a rage and broke all of our brushes and paints before setting them ablaze. My hands were severely burnt for several weeks because of that." The Head Shaker calmly recounted to Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang's horror. 

Meng Yao turned his attention to the older Nie Huaisang. Why would he try to cause a rift between the two brothers? Unless… his father had ordered it.

Nie Mingjue knew his hatred for the Wens stemmed from Wen Rouhan's discreet murder of his father. He had vowed vengeance and retribution on the Wen dogs the day of his father's funeral. He trained harder and pushed his limits further. He could feel the rage building up more each day and he trained. It was only a matter of time before a Qi Deviation would take him but not before he ends Wen Ruohan. Older Huaisang's words felt like cold water being dumped on him. He had allowed his anger to control him. To allow innocent people to die just for their last name. Even the Wens were not that heartless to kill innocent children for their surname.

Shaken by everything he just heard, Lan Xichen's voice quivered, "How could one man cause so much turmoil? What could have made us trust his words so irrevocably?"

"Shufu forced me to flee with the ancient texts and scrolls while Wangji defended the Library Pavilion when the Wens broke through our wards. He was conveniently there as I escaped and sheltered me until I returned to jumpstart the Sunshot Campaign. He further gained my trust when he "risked" his life to spy on the Wens and pass information to us." Zewu-jun recounted.

"He preyed on your kindness and took advantage of your willingness to see the good in others, A-Huan" spat Jiang Wanyin. 

"He did, A-Cheng. But my actions were my own." Zewu-jun sent him a soft smile.

Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng’s eyes widened at their casual endearment. Suddenly Wei Ying let out a gasp, pulling everyone's attention to him and a red faced Jiang Cheng.

"OH MY GOD!!!!!"

Chapter Text

Jiang Cheng slapped a hand over Wei Ying's mouth to stop the words threatening to spill out of his mouth. 

"Mmm mmph m mmmmph mm mmh mmpmph!"

You Have a crush on Lan Xichen!

"Shut up, Wei Wuxian!"

"Mmm mmph hmh!"

You love him!

"I said shut the fuck up, Wei Wuxian!"

"Mmhh mmmh mmph mmm m mmh mph?"

Does that make you a Lan too?

"Wei Wuxian, I swear to God if you do not shut the fuck up-" Jiang Cheng suddenly shrieked and pulled his hand from Wei Ying's mouth. "Why the fuck did you lick my hand!?!?!"

Chuckles pulled the boys' attention back to the others in the hall to see the past cultivators looking at them confused. Jiang Yanli was chuckling into her sleeve with a knowing glint in her eyes. The time travelers were out right falling over laughing. Jiang Wanyin's face was red as he huffed and crossed his arms.

"Shall we return to the viewing, husband?" Asked Zewu-jun. Internally cooing at his red-faced husband. 

HUSBAND!?!?!?

Jiang Cheng sputtered and mumbled quietly under his breath, "Hus...husband...who'syourhusband?"

Wei Wuxian burst out laughing at his younger brother. "Xichen-ge… I think you broke him! Look at how red his face is!" 

"Poor Chengcheng won't ever recover if you continue to tease him." Joked Wei Ying.

"Will you both shut the fuck up and watch! A-Huan, stop encouraging them!" Jiang Wanyin snapped. Zewu-jun chuckled in amusement as Lan Xichen watched their interaction. 'Ah...now I understand now.'

"Is this why Wangji is currently the Acting Sect Leader?" Lan Xichen asked Zewu-jun. 

"We spend a third of the year in Cloud Recesses and another third at Lotus Pier. When I am at Lotus Pier, Wangji takes over as Acting Sect Leader and Sizhui assists him. And when A-Cheng is at the Cloud Recesses, A-Xian takes over as Acting Sect Leader in Yunmeng with Jin Ling to assist him. The remaining months in between Wangji and A-Xian travel and go on night hunts."

"You allow that boy to run the sect in your absence?!?! He caused its destruction and you still give him free reign of the sect? How stupid could you be?!?!" Yu Ziyuan shouted.

"A-Niang, Wei Wuxian is my second heir. Why wouldn't he have free reign to the sect?" Jiang Wanyin watched his mother’s reaction carefully. 

"HE'S YOUR WHAT?!?!?" 

"Jin Ling and Wei Wuxian are my heirs. Jin Ling has taken over Lanling Jin so that leaves Wei Wuxian as my heir until Xichen and I adopt a child or Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji adopt another kid as A-Zhui is the Gusu Lan hier." Jiang Wanyin explained, not leaving room for debate. 

Yu Ziyuan slumps down into her seat. "The Jiang bloodline…"

"Flows through Jin Ling as much as the Jin blood does. As will any other children A-Jie will have." Jiang Wanyin's tone indicated the topic was settled. 

"As Jin Ling will be the Jin's heir, A-Jie's second born will be my heir alongside Wei Wuxian." Jiang Cheng announced, ignoring his mother’s scowl.

Jin Zixuan looked to Jiang Yanli to find her smiling fondly at her brothers. "That is acceptable with Lanling Jin."

"I am proud of you, A-Cheng." Jiang Fengmian spoke up at last, shocking both Jiang Wanyin and Jiang Cheng. "Yunmeng Jiang will accept any child you decide as their future leader."

"Fengmian! You-" Yu Ziyuan tried to reason but Jiang Fengmian held up his hand to stop her.

"Gusu Lan accepted an adopted child as its heir. Yunmeng Jiang will not be close-minded and unwilling to adapt to the changes in the world around us. It goes against what we stand for. A-Li’s children are also Jiangs no matter their last name. My children's happiness is all that matters." Jiang Fengmian declared.

"Well said, Jiang-zongzhu." Lan Qiren praised. "My nephews' happiness is most important. I will handle the Elders when the time comes. They will never get the chance to lay a hand on my nephews. Though after this, I'm sure they will no longer be an issue."

"No, they won't be." Smirked Wei Wuxian. 

Nie Mingjue eyed the older Nie Huaisang and Wen Qionglin. "Do you have anything to tell me since we're on the topic? Are you and Wen Qionglin together?"

"DA-GE!!!!!!" Both shouted in response as laughter broke out. Wen Qing glanced at her flustered brother out of the corner of her eye before turning her attention to his older self. Though his face was unable to express extreme expressions, his eyes were still opened wide as he shook his head in denial. 

'You have no idea...' The Head Shaker mentally laughed.

"Let’s return to the viewing before they start pairing everyone up." Joked Wei Wuxian as everyone moved to return to their seats.

Time sped forward as the image filtered through daylight and nighttime over the water.

A boat once again treads through the lotus filled water. Jiang Wanyin sits at the bow of the boat looking out into the water. Passing through a dense section of lotus leaves, something catches his eye. Leaning over the side of the boat, he narrows his eyes in suspicion at a body floating face down.

"I thought everyone in Yunmeng knew how to swim?" Asked Nie Mingjue.

"They do." Jiang Wanyin replied in a tired tone and Wei Ying snickered.

The image focuses on the black robes of the floating body as Jiang Wanyin, not even blinking an eye at the fact that there was a body in the water, pokes his sword into its back. When he receives no reaction back, he leans further over the side of the boat to poke the side of the body.

Jin Ling. "You… why did you just poke the body like it was nothing?!?!" Jiang Cheng just shrugged.

One second Jiang Wanyin is leaning over the side of his boat, the next he's fallen back into the boat, drenched head to toe. 

A cackling Wei Wuxian hangs onto the side of the boat. "Welcome home Shidi!"

"WEI WUXIAN!!!!!!"

"Is it always like this with those two?" Jin Zixuan asked in between bursts of laughter.

Jiang Yanli giggled and nodded, "Sometimes they do worse."

Thin clouds drifted past mountain peaks as the sun settled higher in the sky. Bird song accompanied by the sounds of running water enhance the quiet and serenity of the Cloud Recesses. 

Two white robed figures stood motionless and upside down on one hand in meditation before the Lanshi. 

Ouyang Zizhen, "Woah… how long do you think they've been in that position for?"

Lan Sizhui, "Hanguang-jun does handstands to train and meditate for hours on end. I've joined him in these sessions since I turned 6." Those moments were amongst several that Sizhui cherished since his father's movements were still limited due to his injuries growing up.

Ouyang Zizhen,  "No wonder you guys have insane arm strength!"

Lan Jingyi, "Of course! It doesn't just happen on its own, you know!"

'Let me tell you, Lan Zhan! Lotus pods with stems have better seeds than those without.' The memory of Wei Wuxian's words pulled Lan Wangji out of his meditation. 

"Xiongzhang."

"Yes, Wangji?"

Lan Xichen patiently waited for his brother to gather his thoughts. After a moment, Lan Wangji asked, "Have you picked lotus seed pods before?"

Unsure where the thought had come from, Lan Xichen looked at him before answering, "…No. If you want to eat lotus seeds, we can send for them. There's no need to pick the pods ourselves."

As if contemplating whether or not he wanted to send for some seeds, Lan Wangji tilted his head downward, "Xiongzhang, did you know…"

Zewu-jun tilted his head towards Lan Wangji in silent questioning when he let the question hang in the air.

Lan Wangji, "...Lotus pods with stems have better seeds than those without?"

"You believed him?" Jiang Wanyin asked incredulously.

Jiang Yanli giggled before putting on a serious face, "A-Xian, you shouldn't be telling people such things."

Wei Ying pouted, "But it does taste better!"

"That's the excuse you use to steal them from the old man." Jiang Cheng scoffed.

Lan Xichen's eyes shone with amusement as he listened to his brother. "Oh? That's not something I've ever heard of. What makes you ask all of a sudden?"

Lan Wangji, "It's nothing. Time to switch to the other hand."

Effortlessly switching hands, the brothers once again resumed their handstands. Zewu-jun angled his head to look at his brother to continue their conversation when something caught his eye and made him smile. "Wangji, you have a guest."

A black rabbit hopped its way down the wooden hall towards the brothers. Twitching its nose, the rabbit made its way to Lan Wangji and cuddled close to his hand.

"Lan Zhan! You kept them?" An excited Wei Ying asked.

"Mn." 

Lan Sizhui, "There's a whole section in the back hills filled with them now."

"But they're both males! Where did the others come from?!?!" Wei Ying asked.

"Xiongzhang." Lan Zhan replied.

Zewu-jun, "How did it find its way here?"

"Go back." Lan Wangji told the tiny explorer. 

Ignoring the command, the rabbit nipped at one end of Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon and pulled it as if it wanted to drag Lan Wangji away with it.

An amused Lan Xichen commented, "Perhaps it wants your company."

Seeing that Lan Wangji was not moving, the rabbit circled around him erratically. Once again amused at the rabbit's behavior. Lan Xichen asked, "Is this the boisterous one?" 'Just like the one who gifted it.'

Ouyang Zizhen laughed, "It really is like Wei-qianbei!"

Lan Wangji let out a small exasperated sigh, "Mn."

Lan Xichen, "There's no harm in being boisterous. It's adorable. There should be two of them, correct? The two are often together, why has only one of them come? Does the other prefer the quiet as opposed to adventuring outside?" 'Like its owner.'

"It will come." said Lan Wangji with a small smile.

As if summoned by his words, the white rabbit came into view as it hopped down the hallway in search of its rambunctious companion. The two chased each other until they settled down beside each other next to Lan Wangji's hand.

Lan Jingyi laughed along with his friends, "They really are just like Wei-qianbei and Hanguang-jun!"

Lan Xichen, 'What are their names?'

Lan Wangji shook his head. It seems he had no intention of telling Lan Xichen their names.

"I accidentally heard you call them by their names last time. They have lovely names." Lan Xichen chuckled as his brother's ears turned red.

"What did you name them?" Wei Ying asked, causing Lan Zhan's ears to turn red.

"Xiao Ying." Lan Wangji's eyes glisten with amusement at Lan Zhan's betrayed glare. "And Xiao Lan."

Snickers came from the younger boys as a blush forms on Wei Ying's face. Jiang Wanyin and The Head Shaker pretended to vomit while Jiang Yanli and Nie Huaisang chuckled.

In the Lanshi, the Lan brothers are seated before a tray of assorted fruits. As they exchanged quiet words regarding their day and their lessons, Lan Wangji’s attention caught on the slices of watermelon in the tray. 

'Goodness Lan Zhan! Your sect’s food is terrible. I'd rather eat fried watermelon rind with chilies.'

"Wei Wuxian! Gusu Lan Sect’s food is meant to be healthy and beneficial to your body! You-!" Lan Qiren shook his finger at Wei Ying.

"A small amount of spices added while cooking will not make the meals less beneficial. There has been less curfew breaking by the guest disciples having to go to Caiyi for their meals since we added spices." Lan-xiansheng interrupted. Leaving a flabbergasted Lan Qiren and a thoughtful Lan Xichen. 

Lan Xichen brought a slice of watermelon to his mouth, however, he stopped when he noticed Lan Wangji staring at the plate.

"Xiongzhang."

"Yes, Wangji?"

Lan Wangji, "Have you eaten watermelon rind before?"

Jiang Cheng groaned and slapped his forehead. " Wei Wuxian… you're an idiot."

"..." confused, Lan Xichen asked, "...is watermelon rind edible?"

After a moment of silence, Lan Wangji answered, "Mn, I heard it can be stir-fried."

At a loss for words, Lan Xichen spoke. "Perhaps it can…"

Jiang Yanli, "Perhaps you can pickle it or candy it. I will make it for A-Xian to try one day"

Wei Ying pouted, "Shijie…"

Lan Wangji, "I heard it tastes quite good."

Lan Xichen, "I have never tried it."

Lan Wangji, "Neither have I."

"..." once again at a loss for words, Lan Xichen cautiously ventured, "Do you want the kitchen to stir-fry some for you?"

Lan Wangji looked contemplative for a moment before he replied in the negative. Lan Xichen visibly let out a sigh of relief before chuckling at his brother's behavior. 'I'm sure I know where all these questions are coming from now.'

Jiang Cheng rubbed his temples as Jiang Fengmian smiled. "A-Xian has always been curious and childish at heart, please don't take his words too seriously Lan Er-gongzi."

"It is of no consequence." Lan Zhan replied with a bow of his head.

The viewers are brought back to Yunmeng as the sun blazes down upon the Yunmeng Jiang Dueling Hall. The air rippled with hot steam that rose from the ground. The heat felt so palpable to the viewers that it felt like the air around them rose in temperature as well.

A dozen topless boys lay atop the wooden floor boards in a corner of the Dueling Hall. Curtains lined the area and hid them from the rest of the hall as well as shielding them from the scorching sun. Doing their best imitation of scallion pancakes, they occasionally flipped themselves over before letting out dying groans.

Gasps came from female cultivators as they turned their heads away with a blush.

"Shit…" Wei Ying whispered softly under his breath. Catching Lan Zhan's attention immediately as he frowned at the boy's reaction. 

Lan Wangji caught the reaction and looked to Wei Wuxian to find he had the same look as his younger self.

"It’s…"

"So…"

"Hot…"

"I wish it was as cool as the Cloud Recesses here." Wei WuXian thought as he sprawled out amongst the boys. 

Nie Huaisang, "Didn't you say you hated it at the Cloud Recesses, Wei-xiong?"

Wei Ying, "Doesn't meant I don't miss the cooler weather, Nie-xiong."

As he flipped over, his back came into view.

The hall fell silent as all eyes landed on Wei Wuxian's back. Lan Zhan held onto Wei Ying's hand tighter to ground himself.

The Immortals were instantly on their feet and staring horrified at the image before them.

"When Wen-yishi described the injuries to Wei Wuxian’s back, I hadn't imagined it to be this bad!" Shouted Nie Mingjue. Nie Huaisang silently cried by his side, unable to take his eyes off his friend's back.

Since Wei Wuxian had returned in Mo Xuanyu's body, the future cultivators had never seen the state of his original body. Seeing the rage on Lan Wangji's face, Wei Wuxian squeezed his hand and gave him a reassuring smile.

"YU ZIYUAN!" Ruoye shot from Xie Lian's arm and wrapped itself tightly around Yu Ziyuan as she cried out from the pain in her shoulder. "What kind of mother would hurt a young child!?!? A resentful ghost is a better mother than you are! What kind of monster are you?"

Yu Ziyuan is once again slammed to the ground. Before Xie Lian can do any further damage, Jiang Fengmian stepped in front of his wife. "Taizi Dianxia, please calm down! I swear to you, Yunmeng Jiang will punish my wife accordingly when we return. Please, I beg you to calm down."

"We left A-Ying in your care because we thought a family would be a better place for him than being with a Heavenly Official and a Ghost King. You allowed this to happen in your own home, Jiang Fengmian!" Hua Cheng snarled at him.

"Yunmeng Jiang's judgement can no longer be trusted." Pei Ming agreed.

Lan Qiren, "If it is acceptable to you, your highnesses, Gusu Lan and Qinghe Nie will handle Yu Ziyuan's punishment when we leave here." Nie Mingjue nodded in agreement. 

"It is a private family affair. Yunmeng Jiang should be allowed to handle it within themselves!" Shouted Elder Yu-Furen.

"Meishan Yu will not interfere." Yu-zongzhu declared as he glared at his wife. "We did not raise our daughter to treat children in such a manner!"

"Very well." Reluctantly, Xie Lian released Yu Ziyuan. "We will hold you to your promise to serve justice for A-Ying."

The Gusu Lan and Qinghe Nie leaders bowed to the Immortals before returning to their seats. At this rate, everyone in the hall is going to be in deep trouble with the Gods before the viewing even ends.

Coincidentally Jiang Cheng, who had laid opposite of him, flipped over at the same time. Their arm and leg collided one on top of the other. 

"Jiang Cheng, move your arm! It's like a piece of coal!"

"Move your leg!" Jiang Cheng hissed back as the two began to slap and kick each other.

Jin Zixuan watched the scene with a small ache in his heart. 'Is this how siblings act? The Lans and Nies seem to have different kinds of relationships though.' He glanced over to Meng Yao. 'Would he turn out differently if I helped and accepted him as my brother? Should I try?'?

The shidis all complained through the back and forth of "Fuck Off!" And "You first!". 

"Stop arguing, already!" 

"It gets hotter just listening to you two argue. Look! I’m even sweating faster!"

"Fight outside if you have to!"

"Please fuck off together, won’t you?"

"We’re begging you!"

Wei Wuxian, "You heard them! They’re telling you to leave!"

Jiang Cheng, "They’re clearly telling you to leave!"

Jin Ling, "Wow… you guys are worse than me and Jin Chan on a good day!"

Jin Zixuan, "Jin Chan?"

Jin Ling, "He's my cousin. Zishen-shushu's son."

Lan Jingyi snickered, "Another Jin-xiaojie."

As quickly as it started, the arguing stopped when the swishing of a dress against the wooden ground forced the boys apart as if struck by lightning. Right as the bamboo curtains were lifted to reveal a lavender-clad Jiang Yanli carrying a tray of cut watermelon.

A collective sigh of relief rolled through the boys. Excited shouts of "Shijie!" and the shuffle of bodies getting covered up by the more shy disciples made Jiang Yanli giggle. 

"At least some of them understand propriety." Mumbled Yu Ziyuan under her breath. Her face has become more pale from the pain in her shoulder. Being slammed onto the ground did not help matters. 

Jiang Yanli, "No sword practice today? You're not slacking off are you?"

Wei Wuxian and the boys protested about the heat and scorching sun as they each grabbed a slice of watermelon.

Watermelon peels piled up on the plate when Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin began to compete again. Wei Wuxian was completely engaged in the eating contest until his eyes drifted towards the watermelon rinds. His memory of Lan Wangji's unamused reaction caused him to laugh out loud.

Lan Sizhui smiled as he watched his Baba on the cloth, "Even so far apart, they still have each other on their minds."

Quickly alarmed, Jiang Wanyin shot his shixiong a suspicious look. "What are you planning this time?"

Wei Wuxian laughed as he grabbed another piece, "Nothing! Don't worry! I’m not gonna do anything. I was just thinking of someone."

"Who?" Jiang Wanyin asked, still suspicious.

Wei Wuxian, "Lan Zhan."

Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes at the answer. "Why are you thinking of him all of a sudden? Reminiscing copying sect rules?"

"It’s fun to think of him!" Wei Wuxian spit out. "He’s just too amusing to be left alone."

Lan Jingyi, "To think it took them 19 years to be together… that's a story for the books!"

Ouyang Zizhen, "Let’s write their story and all the juicy details when we get back! Romance of the Ages: Hanguang-jun and the Yiling Laozu ."

Lan Jingyi, " Romancing the Yiling Laozu ."

Ouyang Zizhen, " The Jade and his Lotus ."

Jin Ling, "Will you two shut up? I don't need to think about my Da-jiu's love life!"

Lan Sizhui, "I'm not sure I want to read about my parents' love life either."

Nie Huaisang leaned forward to whisper to the boys, "I'd like to read it! Send one to future me if you write the story, I'm sure we'd gladly distribute it for you."

Lan Jingyi and Ouyang Zizhen looked at each other excitedly before nodding their heads at Nie Huaisang. 

Wei Wuxian. "I told him his sect’s food is terrible and I’d rather eat stir-fried watermelon peel with chilies. Come have fun with us at Lotus Pier, I'll take him to all the good places to eat -"

Wei Wuxian's watermelon slice was slapped from his hand before he could finish. 

"Are you crazy? Why did you invite him to Lotus Pier? Are you that tired of living? Stop inviting him here!" Jiang Wanyin demanded before looking away, missing the look that flashed on his shixiong's face. 

Pasting a pout on his face, Wei Wuxian cried out. "Calm down, will you? My poor watermelon! I was just being polite… we all know he wouldn’t come. Have you ever heard of him going anywhere to have fun? Why are you reacting like this? I never knew you hated him so much."

Jiang Wanyin cleared his throat and shifted in his seat while Lan Wangji's eyes quickly shifted to the floor and back, making both Wei Wuxian and Zewu-jun laugh.

Jiang Wanyin, "I’ve got nothing against Lan Wangji. If he came, my mom would have more fuel. Comparing me with someone else’s kid. You won’t get away unscathed either."

Wei Wuxian slapped his shidi's back and boasted, "There's nothing to be scared of! If he does come to visit, you can tell Jiang-shushu to have him sleep with me. I’ll definitely drive him mad in less than a month!"

Nie Huaisang smirked behind his fan, "My my, Wei-xiong. Already planning to hog Wangji-xiong all to yourself, huh?"

Wei Ying sputtered, "That… that wasn't what I meant!"

Jiang Wanyin laughed, "You want him to sleep with you for an entire month? You’d be stabbed to death within the week!"

Nie Mingjue laughed, "Or he might enjoy it!"

"Not until AFTER you are married!" Hua Cheng spoke through clenched teeth.

Wei Wuxian waved away the idea, "I'm not scared of him! If we're seriously fighting, he might not even be a match for me!"

Jiang Wanyin observed his shixiong while the others cheered him on before mocking his thick skin. As infuriating as it was, Wei Wuxian wasn't just boasting without the skills to back it up.

Lan Xichen, "Wei-gongzi's skills are something to behold."

The others agreed. Just from what they've seen, Wei Wuxian definitely has the skills to back up all his boasting.

Jiang Yanli sat down between the two when they began to shove each other again. "Who are you two talking about? A friend you made in Gusu?"

Wei Wuxian gave his shijie a bright smile, "Yeah!"

Jiang Wanyin rolled his eyes, "What a shameless ‘friend’. Go ask Lan Wangji if he wants you as his friend."

Faking outrage, Wei Wuxian gasped out loud. "Fuck off. I’ll bother him until he wants to be my friend. Shijie, do you know Lan Wangji?"

"Who doesn't know Lan Wangji?" mumbled Jiang Cheng under his breath.

"Mn. We are friends." Lan Zhan said as he looked at a smiling Wei Ying. 

Jiang Yanli, "I do. Lan Er-gongzi is described by everyone as handsome and talented. Is he really that handsome?"

"He is!" Replied Wei Wuxian without hesitation. 

Jiang Yanli raised one eyebrow at his response, "Compared to you?"

Wei Wuxian's face became serious as he thought about it for a moment before using his thumb and forefinger to indicate a pinch. "Maybe just a little bit more handsome than me."

"Mn. Closer than friends." Lan Wangji nonchalantly added. Wei Wuxian cackled as Lan Zhan and Wei Ying once again flushed red. 

Jiang Yanli smiled and took the plate of peels away, "He must be very handsome then. It’s good that you made a new friend. You two can visit each other in your free time."

Seeing her brothers' faces in response to the idea of going back to Gusu Lan, Jiang Yanli giggled. "Why not invite your friend to come stay at Lotus Pier for a while?"

Jiang Wanyin, "Don’t listen to his nonsense, A-jie. He already offended half of the Cloud Recesses. Lan Wangji would never want to come visit him."

Wei Wuxian, "I don't know what you're talking about! He will come!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Wake up, will you? Lan Wangji told you to get lost, or did you forget?"

Wei Wuxian, "What do you know!? I know for sure he secretly wants to come visit with me here. As a matter of fact, he would love to!"

"I did come visit. Yunmeng is beautiful." Lan Zhan explained. 

Wei Ying pouted, "Lan Zhan! Why didn’t you come find me! I would have taken you around the place!"

Lan Zhan, "Did not stay long. There was a rain storm." 

Jiang Wanyin, "I have to ask myself everyday just where do you find all this confidence?"

Wei Wuxian, "Aiya… Stop thinking about it. If I asked the same question for so many years and never got an answer, I would’ve given up a long time ago."

Jiang Wanyin shook his head and prepared to retort when the sounds of aggressive footsteps drained the color from all the boys' faces.

"I was wondering where everyone disappeared to. As expected…" a stern voice sneered.

Arms and legs flailed as they ran out from behind the curtains and into the hall just as Yu Ziyuan turned the corner. 

Eyebrows raised in question. Were they really that terrified if Yu Ziyuan?

'Oh shit…' thought the disciples as they spun on their heels and ran in terror. The scowl, now familiar to all the viewers, on her face morphed into anger as she took in the undressed state of the disciples. 

"You boys! Can’t you see that A-Li’s here? Who taught you brats to dress like this in front of a lady?!?!?"

The elder female cultivators grunted and nodded in agreement. Martial siblings or not, they still needed to dress properly when a lady was present. 

"Jiang Cheng! Put some clothes on! You look like a barbarian! What would people think of me if they saw you walking around like this?!?!?"

Jiang Wanyin hastily untied his top from around his waist and pulled it on while the boys scrambled to grab their tops. Yu Ziyuan's ire suddenly turned to Wei Wuxian.

"Wei Ying! Do you want to die!?"

Pei Ming, "So others get yelled at for being dressed indecently. But A-Ying gets threatened?"

Ling Wen, "A bit of an extreme contrast, if you ask me."

Wei Wuxian flinched, "I'm sorry, Madam Yu! I didn’t know Shijie would come looking for us! I’ll go get changed right now!"

Yu Ziyuan became even angrier, "You dare run? Come back right now and kneel!"

Purple bursts of lightning slashed across the screen. 

A pained scream ripped through the hall as the viewers' horrified eyes focused on Yu Ziyuan's trembling form on the ground before them. Purple streaks begin to appear on Yu Ziyuan's back. Before anyone could react, their attention is pulled back to the cloth by a muted grunt.

Wei Wuxian stumbled but caught himself as streaks of purple lightning branched out from a large slash running diagonally on his back.

One by one, the viewers realized what just happened. The injuries that Wei Wuxian received on the cloth were reflected on the person inflicting the injuries. 

Hua Cheng smirked as he looked down at Yu Ziyuan. "I altered the array to share A-Ying's pain with those who caused him said pain with ill-intent. So every whip, every lashing, every injury… you will feel it too."

Wei Wuxian shared a look with Jiang Wanyin. They both knew what was coming.

"A-Die… you said that the pain will be inflicted only if the person had ill-intent, right?" Wei Wuxian asked before meeting Wen Qionglin’s wide eyes.

"Yes." Replied Hua Cheng. 

"If it was something necessary and I asked for it to be done, then the person won't feel the pain… right?" Wei Ying asked as Jiang Wanyin and Lan Wangji finally realized why they were asking.

"Why do you ask?" Now suspicious, Hua Cheng asked. 

"Just… just wondering." Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying answered in unison. Not meeting anyone's eyes.

Narrowing his eyes at both boys, Hua Cheng confirmed once again, "As long as the person is not causing you harm with malicious intentions, they will not feel pain."

Wei Wuxian let out a breath and smiled, "Ok… good. That's good." 

Now all the Immortals and past cultivators are eyeing Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying with suspicion.

"I want A-Ying removed from Yunmeng. Whether it is to Qinghe or Gusu or a split between the two, it does not matter. The Jiang siblings can be allowed to visit." Xie Lian demanded.

Jiang Wanyin and Jiang Yanli wanted to protest but they knew this was something that had to be done if their future was to be changed for the better.

"But-" Wei Ying began to protest.

"It's for the best Little Me, you know that." Wei Wuxian cut him off.

"I know… Can Lan Zhan come with me if I go to Qinghe for a short time?" Wei Ying asked Lan Qiren. 

Lan Qiren, "If you wish to split your time between Qinghe and Gusu, as long as Nie-zongzhu is amenable to it, I will allow it."

Nie Mingjue, "I'll have a room prepared for Wei Wuxian when we return."

"A-Ying and Lan Wangji will be in separate rooms or so help me, I will tear your sects apart!" Hua Cheng threatened. 

"I.. what? Why would we be sharing a room? We… he…it's not.." Wei Ying once again sputtered. 

"They will be in separate rooms and chaperoned appropriately, Chengzhu." Nie Mingjue bowed to hide his grin as Lan Xichen turned his head to hide his behind a cough.

"Give them the first set of rooms on the right in the Family Wing." The Head Shaker smirked behind his fan when Nie Huaisang's eyes lit up with mischief. The rooms in the Family Wing are connected by a door disguised as a bookshelf.

"I will be dropping in occasionally to ensure things are being properly handled." Feng Xin stated with a disgusted look towards Yu Ziyuan. 

"As will I." Mu Qing stated.

"Don’t expect any of the Jiang ships to return until I am satisfied with your punishment." He Xuan turned away and sat back down at the table.

Yu Ziyuan flicked Zidian back to unleash another strike.

"A-Niang, do you want some watermelon…?"

Stopping in her forward movement, Yu Ziyuan looked at Jiang Yanli in confusion. 

Lan Jingyi, "Looks like Jiang-guniang's skills could work on just about anyone!"

Ouyang Zizhen sighed, "If only I can find someone like her back home!" 

The distraction gave the boys a chance to run and make themselves sparse. Realizing what her daughter was doing she pinched her cheek, "Eat, eat, eat. All you do is cook and eat!"

Fighting back tears from the pain in her cheek, Jiang Yanli mumbled. "A-Niang, A-Xian and the others were hiding here to relieve the heat before I came here to find them. They didn't do it on purpose. Do… Do you want some watermelon? Eating watermelon in the summer is great for cooling down and quenching thirst. I’ll cut them for you. I don’t know who gave them to us but it’s really sweet." 

Flicking her eyes between the plate of rinds and her daughter, Yu Ziyuan's anger grew and she crossed her arms over her chest. The more Jiang Yanli spoke about watermelon, the more she craved it.

Wei Ying chuckled, "No one can resist the call of a watermelon! Especially in the sweltering heat!"

Chapter Text

The hall remained silent as they watched Wei Ying with shocked expressions. They're watching him being punished unfairly yet he's here making jokes like it didn't matter. If this happened to them, would they still be able to don a happy expression?

Jin Zixuan's hands fisted in his lap. He had to force himself to not snap at his future mother-in-law for her rough treatment of her daughter. When he felt a small hand covering his fist, he looked up to see a smiling Jiang Yanli. 

"You're perfect the way you are." The words left his lips before he realized what he was saying. His heart, however, flipped as a blush bloomed on her face.

“Perhaps the gates of the Cloud Recesses should be opened to A-Xian’s siblings should they ever need it. Regardless of their surname.” Lan-xiansheng suggested with a side glance to his younger counterpart. 

“That’s a great idea, Shufu!” Zewu-jun cheered as he shot Wei Wuxian a smile.

Something in Lan-xiansheng’s wording caught Lan Xichen’s attention. “Regardless of...surname?”

“As you have all witnessed, A-Xian has an uncanny ability to… gain…new family members.” Zewu-jun chuckled.

Lan Sizhui smiled, “I’ve stopped keeping count on how many uncles, aunts, grandparents, and siblings I've gained over the years.”

“We… We will consider it after this viewing concludes.” Lan Qiren compromised. He still could not come to terms with his future self’s close relationship nor how acquiescent he was to Wei Wuxian’s suggestions. What exactly happened for him to so willingly trust the troublemaker?

"Wait. Wait. Wait!" Wei Ying raised a hand before turning to Lan Sizhui. "Did you say siblings?"

Realization bloomed on Lan Sizhui's face. "Oh…"

Wei Ying turned to Lan Jingyi. "You heard him say siblings, right? Siblings. As in more than 1?"

Lan Jingyi, "Uh, Wei-qianbei…"

“Speaking of uncles.” Baoshan Sanren suddenly stood from her seat and called out, “Xingchen. Zichen. Shouldn’t you come to greet your nephew?”

From the back, two figures stood and walked towards the front as the cultivators turned their attention to them. The two unknown cultivators stopped before Baoshan Sanren and bowed.

“Xingchen greets Master.”

“Zichen greets Master.”

The younger time travelers stood from their seats when their seniors stood. The last time they saw either Daozhangs, one was a fierce corpse with his tongue cut out and the other’s soul was shattered beyond repair.

Song Lan turned to Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji before he and Xiao Xingchen bowed to them in greeting. “Wei-gongzi, Lan Er-gongzi. It is good to meet you again in happier circumstances.”

Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji shared a shocked glance before returning the Daozhang’s bow. “You… You remember us? How?” Wei Wuxian asked.

“Master felt the pull of my spirit when she last descended. She found Zichen and brought him back to her mountain. Since we were on Master’s mountain, locked in a healing meditation, the energy of the mountain altered how we were pulled back here by the array and pulled our souls into our past bodies instead.” Xiao Xingchen explained as he gave Wei Wuxian a smile.

"Then when we leave here, will you return to your own timeline or will you be remaining in your past bodies?" Wei Wuxian asked, now curious as to what elements were included in the final array.

"They will remain in their past bodies." Baoshan Sanren answered with a smile. "I believe aside from A-Ying, no one more than these two deserves a second chance."

"Ah! This means they can find A-Qing!" Ouyang Zizhen excitedly shouted. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji  chuckled at the young disciples' bright smiles.

"Little me, come here!" Wei Wuxian called Wei Ying to his side. "This is The Bright Moon and Gentle Breeze, Xiao Xingchen, and his cultivation partner, The Distant Snow and Cold Frost, Song Lan. Song Zichen. Xing-shishu is mother’s shidi."

"Yunmeng Jiang's Wei Ying, Wei Wuxian greets Xing-shishu and Lan-shishu!" Wei Ying greets with a large smile on his face.

The Jiangs shared pensive glances as they watched the exchange. Their hearts unsettled as they realized the gravity of what is going to happen once they leave this hall. 'Another person with familial claims to A-Xian.'

"Let’s return to our seats and continue the viewing. We still have quite a ways to go with the memories." Zewu-jun smiled as everyone returned to their seats with Xiao Xingchen and Song Lan moving closer to the front to sit.

Zewu-jun and Lan-xiansheng moved to sit next to Jiang Cheng as the upcoming events will be painful for both him and A-Xian.

Boats carrying the Jiang disciples lazily drifted down the river. Passing the oar to 6th Disciple,  Wei Wuxian flopped back down with a pout. He let out a whine to cover his flinch when his robe rubbed against his back causing it to sting. "So unfair. Everyone wasn't dressed either. I was the only one who got punished!"

Jiang Wanyin, "Because it hurts our eyes the most looking at your nakedness!" Laughter breaks out as fellow disciples throw compliments about Wei Wuxian's many qualities that could be the cause of his punishment.

"Why am I not surprised that seeing Wei Wuxian being punished is so second nature to the Jiang disciples?" Nie Mingjue commented.

"That's why he's so laid-back about the punishments he got in the Cloud Recesses." Nie Huaisang added.

Lan Qiren nodded in agreement, also not liking easy acceptance displayed. "Compared to home, our punishment was child's play."

Wei Wuxian gave him a look before suddenly diving into the water. Within seconds, Jiang Cheng was the only one left in the boat as all the shidis followed Wei Wuxian's lead into the water. "What the hell are you doing?!" demanded Jiang Wanyin.

The boat flipped over, belly up, in the water when Wei Wuxian struck it hard from the opposite side. One by one the disciples popped up from the water as Wei Wuxian climbed on top of the boat to sit cross-legged.

"Does the array return the equal amount of pain to the person who causes it?" Lan Xichen cautiously asked. 

They've all noticed how much pain Yu Ziyuan was in when she received the rebounding strike. If it's of equal strength, Wei Wuxian should have collapsed on the ground as well. Zidian is a first class spiritual tool. It's designed to inflict trauma and pain.

"The same amount of pain and damage." Hua Cheng replied with a sneer towards Yu Ziyuan. 

"Pathetic." He Xuan eyed Yu Ziyuan as she leaned painfully into her husband's side. "The boy took a direct hit to his back and was still able to continue on as usual. You can't even sit up properly? You call yourself the master of your tool?"

Mu Qing, "What does that say about A-Ying's pain tolerance?"

"What does it say about how he gained that pain tolerance?" Feng Xin's eyes flashed with anger.

Pei Xiu, "He has been conditioned to not feel pain."

Wen Qing's concerned gaze landed on Wei Ying. "Years of repeated exposure to pain will do that to a person."

After a few moments when Jiang Wanyin still hadn't resurfaced. Nothing except for a string of bubbles. Wei Wuxian wiped his face in confusion, "Why is he taking so long?"

Sixth shidi swam over and exclaimed, "Did he drown!?"

Jiang Cheng snorted in disgust. "No self-respecting Yunmeng resident would drown so easily!"

Wei Wuxian, "Impossible! Did you forget who you're talking about?"

A loud shout came from behind him and suddenly he was thrown in the water as the boat once again was flipped over by none other than a laughing Jiang Wanyin.

The boats picked up speed as they're directed towards a specific patch of Lotus blooms and seed pods. One by one the boys broke off a pod at the stem to peel seeds from the pods.

Jiang Wanyin looked over to watch his shixiong. Lately, he had been able to catch Wei Wuxian in moments where he thought no one was watching. When his smile cracked. Moments he covers up the moment he feels someone watching him.

Wei Ying, "You noticed?"

Jiang Cheng huffed, "It's easy when you know what to look for."

Wei Wuxian broke off a few stems and peeled one open to toss the round seeds into his mouth. "If I treat you to lotus pods, what will you treat me to?" He hummed absentmindedly to himself. 

'Lan Wangji again…' Jiang Wanyin sighed to himself before shouting at his shixiong. "Who are you treating now?"

Wei Wuxian laughed as he refocused, "Haha, Definitely not you!"

The boys continued to bicker and fight as they drifted in the water.  As Wei Wuxian readied himself to launch another lotus pod at Jiang Wanyin's face, he suddenly hushed everyone and made them duck down. "We’re dead! The old man’s here today!"

Wei Wuxian turned to Jiang Wanyin, "That reminds me! Who takes care of that farm now?"

"His grandson maintains it now. The old man was there when the Wens came." Jiang Wanyin replied with a sigh.

"Oh."

The familiar scene of the Discussion Conference in Qishan began to play on the cloth. Disciples from the different sects wandered around as they conversed with their friends and fellow disciples. Jiang Wanyin stood amongst his shidis as he looked around for Wei Wuxian.

Lan Xichen, "It seems we've caught up to our timeline now."

Further from the field, Wei Wuxian walked up an incline trying to find his way to the field. “What kind of place is this? Why is this place so hard to navigate? If I could just find someone to point me in the right direction!”

The sound of a bowstring being struck drew his attention to the left. Walking further towards the sound, Wei Wuxian came upon a Wen disciple practicing archery. ‘Firm and steady hand. Posture standard but still beautiful. Who is this excellent archer?’

Wen Qing turned to her brother, "This was when you met Wei Wuxian?"

Wen Ning smiled and nodded. "Mn!"

The boy took aim and released the arrow. The arrow flew smoothly towards the target and hit dead center alongside the others. The boy had another arrow notched even before the arrow found its mark.

Wei Wuxian, “Bravo! Good Shot!”

"Very impressive, Wei-gongzi." Jiang Fengmian complimented as the rest nodded in agreement and added their own compliments.

"Th- thank y-you!" Wen Ning stood from his seat and bowed to the sect leaders. 

Yu Ziyuan scoffed at his side. "You would spare a compliment for a stranger but not for your own son!"

Jiang Fengmian shook his head, "San Niang. We can discuss this when we get back."

Yu Ziyuan laughs, "When we get back? Do you really think after all this, we'd really have time to "talk"?"

Jiang Fengmian, "San Niang-"

With a startled yelp, the boy released the arrow. The arrow flew across the cloth as a black and red robed chest came into view at the end of the arrow’s path.

Everyone's stomach dropped as the arrow flew. They knew he survived but it was still heart-stopping.

The chest turned to the side as a hand shot out to stop the arrow in its path. Wei Wuxian’s smiling face came into view with the arrow in his hand. “That was close! Don't worry! Which one of the Wen Sect’s young masters are you? You're such a good archer! I've never seen such good archery from your sect before…”

“I’m sorry!” shouted the boy before he ran behind a cluster of boulders.

Laughter breaks out at the boy's reaction and Wei Wuxian's shocked face.

Jin Ling laughed, "You barely met the guy for a few seconds and you already scared him away?"

Lan Jingyi huffed between laughs, "That's a great ability, Wei-qianbei!"

"I keep telling you that your face will give people nightmares!" Jiang Cheng fell over Nie Huaisang as they both laughed harder.

"Am I that good-looking? So charming that I scared him away?" Wei Wuxian stood shocked for a moment before grabbing his own chin. "Aish, forget it. This place is a maze. Where is the archery field anyways?”

Both the older and younger Jiang Wanyins and Nie Huaisangs pretended to vomit at Wei Wuxian's words. That earned them pouts from Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying.

“Well…” A soft voice rang from behind a large boulder. An arm reluctantly shot out from behind it and pointed to the right “It's over there.”

Wei Wuxian followed the direction the hand was pointing to with his eyes before smiling and bowing in greeting. “Thanks! This one is Wei Ying, Wei Wuxian of Yunmeng Jiang. May I have your name, gongzi?”

The boy shyly stepped out from behind the boulder before returning the smile and bowed. “I... I'm Wen Ning, Wen Qionglin of Qishan Wen.”

"And like that he made a new friend." Stated Lan-xiansheng, shaking his head at how easily his nephew-in-law made friends."

"Sometimes all it takes is a simple greeting." Zewu-jun smiled.

Back on the Archery Field, Wei Wuxian's eyes caught on an array drawn on a post near the entrance. He was about to take a closer look but was pulled away by a yell. Jiang Wanyin finally laid eyes on his errant shixiong. “Wei Wuxian! Where did you run off to?”

Wei Wuxian propped his right arm on Jiang Wanyin’s shoulder, “This place is like a maze and I got lost finding my way here. Luckily someone helped me out! So much pomp and circumstance! Aiya… so much red. Why are we forced to wear the Wen guest robes for a competition anyway? What’s going to happen today?”

Before Jiang Wanyin could answer, Wei Wuxian is distracted by the sound of a bowstring being plucked. Looking back over his shoulder, Wei Wuxian spots Lan Wangji, also dressed in red, testing out his bow.

‘He looks good in red too. Is there a color he wouldn’t look good in?’ Wei Wuxian sighed internally before fixing a smile on his face. “Wangji-xiong, when did you get here?” 

"You'll both be wearing red soon enough, Wei-xiong!" Nie Huaisang nudged his friend with a wink.

"Yah! That wasn't what I meant!" A red-faced Wei Ying shot back.

Lan Wangji spared him only a glance before turning and walking away, only to be blocked by Wei Wuxian. “We were classmates at least once, why act so cold?”

Taking a calming breath, Lan Wangji spoke, “Excuse me.”

Wei Wuxian, “I missed your birthday last year so I especially got you a gift!”

Lan Wangji, “It's not necessary.”

Wei Wuxian pouted to his husband, "So cold Lan Er-gege. Not even giving any face to your zhangfu!"

"Mn." Lan Wangji looked into Wei Wuxian’s eyes. "Will give face to my qizi."

"LAN ZHAN!!! YOU!!!" Wei Wuxian gasped wide-eyed at his husband. 'That smug look on his face!'

Jaws dropped as they stared at Lan Wangji as if he's sprouted an extra head. Did the Second Jade just call Wei Wuxian his wife?!?!? 

“Come on, don’t give me the cold shoulder! I put a lot of effort into it.” Wei Wuxian held up a book so that the title showed, Erotic Instructions and Tips for Love for Begininers. “That time I really didn't know you had never read something like it. So this time, this is an entry-level one!”

“Ridiculous.” Lan Wangji’s eyebrow twitched as he reigned in his expression and walked away.

“Wangji-xiong! Your forehead ribbon is crooked!” Wei Wuxian shouted after him.

Pausing his steps, Lan Wangji shot a hand up to fix his forehead ribbon only to find it straight. Flicking his sleeve, Lan Wangji left with a scoff that made Wei Wuxian laugh.

Nie Huaisang, "Wei-xiong, You… you really don't fear death do you?" 

"Why?" Wei Ying asked. "It’s not like he would actually kill me."

"It's your funeral." Mumbled Jiang Cheng. 

The archery field is filled with disciples from each sect lined up under their Sect’s flag. The banging of drums signaled the beginning of the Discussion Conference and a voice announced the entrance of the Sect Leaders.

“Sect Leaders of Lanling Jin Clan, Yunmeng Jiang Clan, Qinghe Nie Clan, and Lan-xiansheng, Lan Qiren, have arrived!”

Making their way up to the view platforms for the heads of the Sects, the Sect Leaders take note of their seating arrangements, the raised platform to the left, and the raised dais towering over the middle. As each sect’s flag is flown over where their sect leaders are seated, it becomes painfully obvious as to who would be sitting at the raised dais above the rest of the sect leaders.

Knowing what they know now, the Sect Leaders looked back on this day with new eyes. The signs were all there. The smaller sects were seated on lower platforms so they did not fully see how the Greater Sects were arranged.

Angered by the insult, Nie Mingjue turned around to leave the platform when he was stopped by Lan Qiren. “Nie-zongzhu, easy.”

“Our four Clans and Wen Clan have always sat together as hosts and guests. Now Wen Ruohan thinks he is above us and our leader!”

Lan-xiansheng, “He announced he mastered a hidden powerful skill and overtook three established clans in the North. He no longer has to pretend to be friendly with us now that he has become more powerful.”

"Hidden power." Wei Wuxian scoffed. "Tell me, Qing-jie, has Wen-zongzhu started to threaten you with A-Ning's safety to ensure you help him counter the effects of resentful energy yet?"

Wen Qing stared at Wei Wuxian in surprise. "He...Yes. I have been helping him since last year."

The Head Shaker, "Wen-yishi, your skills would be better appreciated in Qinghe. Nie-zongzhu has a promise to keep even though he seems to have forgotten he made it in the first place."

By his tone, Nie Mingjue took a longer look at his younger brother who was forced to grow up too soon. While he looked older, his brother had an air of grief that surrounded him. But not only that, there was anger. An anger in his eyes that accompanied sharp words when he spoke.

Nie Mingjue, “Great. I'm done with all this hypocrisy and falsities anyways.”

“Nie-zongzhu, please. I know you wanted to avenge your father. But the Wens' influence has grown immense. They will continue to be ruthless if not more so. For your sect’s sake, bear it for now.”

“Exactly. There is no need to be angry, Nie-zongzhu.” Jin Guanshang stepped up onto the platform before taking his seat. “Sit down and have a drink.”

"And look where that got us." Jiang Wanyin sneered at Jin Guangshan. The decades-long anger at the disease infested pile of shit dressed in gold before him spilling to the top. "Tell me, Jin Guangshan. How far stuck up his ass are you right now? Do you think that makes you immune to what's to come? I have news for you. Wen Ruohan still came for Lanling Jin's wealth and properties."

Jin Guangshan took offense to being talked to in such a way. But wisely chose to remain quiet lest he causes them to silence him again.

Jiang Fengmian, “Where I sit is of no importance. I'm more curious to see who's more superior than us to be seated so grandly over there.”

The Sect Leaders took their seats and poured themselves a cup of tea. As they made small talk, Jin Guangshan surveyed his fellow Sect Leaders and the raised platform in front of him. Obviously Wen Rouhan held whomever that was going to sit across from him in higher esteem than others.

‘It will do Lanling Jin good to garner their favor.’ Jin Guangshan thought to himself as he took a sip of his tea. Seconds later, he’s spitting out his tea at the announcement of the new arrival.

“His Lordship Wen Chao has arrived!”

Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin's faces darkened as the source of their tragedies stepped into view. The temperature in the hall suddenly dropped and a chill spread through the cultivators. 

Wen Chao, with an arrogant sneer on his face, made his way up the platform and promptly sat in the seat across from the sect leaders. As if just remembering that he’s supposed to show some sort of respect to the sect leaders, Wen Chao shallowly bowed from his seat with his head turned away from them.

Smirking, Nie Mingjue looked over to Jiang Fengmian, “Jiang-zongzhu, are you satisfied with your answer?”

Slamming his teacup down on the table, Lan-xiansheng bit out, “Such arrogance precedes coming chaos.”

"Disrespectful!"

"What do you expect from the Wens?"

"They think they're superior to us!"

"Need I remind you that there are Wens here who do not deserve to be clumped in with the likes of Wen Chao?" Wei Wuxian's cold voice reminded the cultivators. 

The change from his usual cheerful tone warned them that any disrespect would not be tolerated. Su She's state was a stark reminder of what happens when you disrespect someone Wei Wuxian cared for.

“His Lordship, Wen Ruohan!”

Wen Rouhan entered the raised dais and took his seat. The viewers are shown the view of the platform and the archery field from Wen Rouhan’s right side. Seeing his son seated arrogantly across from the fellow sect leaders as they mask their anger and offense, Wen Rouhan let out a satisfied smirk before calling for the competition to begin.

"Is war truly unavoidable?" Lan Xichen sighed.

"Even if we wanted to, there's no stopping Wen Ruohan." Wen Qionglin spoke up. "My uncle is too obsessed with power and the resentful energy only adds fuel to it."

"His plans are already in action." Wen Qing added. "Even those named Wen are not safe from him. Our lives are forfeit the minute we open our mouths."

Back on the archery field, targets are placed in a variety of patterns and challenges as each disciple moves about to different targets. Jiang Wanyin stands behind his shixiong with his arms crossed and a scowl on his face as he watches Wei Wuxian make a fool out of himself to get Lan Wangji’s attention. 

His attention is drawn away by another cultivator with a forehead ribbon. Dressed in red, Lan Xichen stepped up with perfect posture to take aim before releasing arrow after arrow until his quiver was empty. 

Jiang Wanyin caught himself staring with his mouth hanging open and blushed before turning away. Missing the smile Lan Xichen sent his way upon noticing the younger boy watching him.

"You know, A-Cheng. When I said I thought you were never coming back because you found someone in Gusu, I didn't know it would come true." Wei Ying laughed as his shidi's face burned red.

Lan Jingyi, "Oh! Is this the start of Zewu-jun and Sandu Shengshou's love story?"

Ouyang Zizhen, "It started in the Cloud Recesses too! Looks like the Cloud Recesses is the place to go if you want to meet your Forever. It's so romantic!"

Jin Ling, "Will you two cut it out? I'm going to have nightmares!"

Wei Wuxian pulled out a food basket that one of his shidis was holding for him and showed Lan Wangji its bright red contents, “I also brought you a specialty of Yunmeng, Spicy Mantis Shrimps!”

Lan Wangji does not even spare a look into the basket and only focuses on watching the Lan disciples shoot.

"Is that thing even edible?!?!?!"

"I can smell my taste buds dying."

"It's so red! Did they drown the shrimp in chilies?!?"

"Wei Wuxian! No one likes that level of heat but you!" Jiang Cheng shouted.

Jin Ling, "How do you still have taste buds?!?!"

Putting the basket down, Wei Wuxian pulls a scroll from his sleeve. “I know how much you love calligraphy! I wrote this especially for you!” Unrolling the scroll, Wei Wuxian held it up for Lan Wangji to read what it said: Lan Wangji is so handsome!

Lan Wangji turned his back to Wei Wuxian as he proceeded to step up to shoot. His red ears go unnoticed by Wei Wuxian.

“Lan Zhan! Look at me! Which one did you like?” Wei Wuxian pressed on, “If you didn’t like any of them, I can get you something else!”

Finally having had enough of Wei Wuxian bothering him, Lan Wangji notched an arrow and aimed it towards Wei Wuxian, causing the latter’s eyes to widen with shock and duck. “Help! Lan Zhan is trying to kill me!”

Lan Jingyi, "Whoa! Did Hanguang-jun actually aim an arrow at Wei-qianbei!?!?!"

Lan Sizhui, "Well, remember the text books said Hanguang-jun and the Yiling Laozu constantly fought and that Hanguang-jun even hated him."

Jin Ling, "Pft, Yeah… hated him so much he married him." 

Lan Wangji let loose his arrow and it skimmed past Wei Wuxian and hit the target behind him.

“Lan Er-gongzi hit the bullseye!”

Lan Wangji lowered his bow but he missed the mischievous glint in Wei Wuxian’s eye as seconds later an arrow whizzed past him and split his arrow in two.

“Wei-gongzi hit the bullseye!”

Jiang Cheng pinched the bridge of his nose. "Once… just once, I would like to be able to go to a discussion conference where you don’t bother Lan Wangji!"

"Be careful what you wish for." Jiang Wanyin warned.

“Wei Ying.” Lan Wangji called out through gritted teeth.

“What?” Wei Wuxian asked in an innocent tone. “The target isn’t just yours alone. Why can't I shoot at it too?”

“Whatever.” Lan Wangji notched another arrow and split Wei Wuxian’s arrow in two.

“Lan Er-gonzi hit the-” before the announcer could finish, Wei Wuxian released another arrow and split Lan Wangji’s arrow again.

“Wei-gongzi hit the-” Lan Wangji retaliated.

“Lan Er-gongzi-”

“Wei-gongzi-”

“Lan-”

“Wei-”

“Lan-”

“Wei-”

“Lan-”

“Wei-”

“Lan-”

“Wei-”

“Hit-”

“Hit-”

“Hit-”

The cultivators watched with their mouths hanging open as shot after shot, the previous arrow would be split by the following arrow. 

The younger boy's eyes were flickering on the cloth as they watched their Seniors' skills be put on display.

"Well… that explains his skill with the bow even as a 4 year old ghost child." Feng Xin laughed. "I still have your bow in my palace, A-Ying. I will drop it off to you one day."

"Thank you Feng-shushu!" Wei Wuxian smiled in response. 

Finally both quivers were emptied and the announcer can finally take a break to catch his breath. “They… they both hit the bullseye!”

Wei Wuxian stood before the targets to admire their hard work. “Your arrows and mine have mixed so well! They look like well-arranged bouquets!”

"Come on! How can you say that's not romantic!?!?!" Shouted Ouyang Zizhen.

“You were being contrary on purpose!” Lan Wangji glared at him.

Wei Wuxian simply shrugged. “You didn't accept any of my gifts. I had to do something.”

“You-!” Lan Wangji was beginning to lose his temper when a bouquet of arrowhead feathers was shoved into his arms.

“Here! Your birthday gift!” Declared a smiling Wei Wuxian. “Lan Zhan, do you like it?”

Temporarily entranced by the smile, Lan Wangji tightened his grip on the so-called “bouquet” before turning away with red ears. “Boring”.”

"See? Romantic!" Ouyang Zizhen said once again with a pleased look on his face.

Jin Ling rolled his eyes, "We heard you the first time!"

"This is why you're still unmarried!" Lan Jingyi tsked.

"You're not married either!" Jin Ling retorted. 

Lan Sizhui, "Guys! Is this really the time?"

Nie Huaisang turned to Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, "Your wedding must have been amazing! You have to tell us about it!"

The past cultivators and Immortals leaned forward in their seats with smiles on their faces as they waited for details on the men's wedding. The smiles slowly dropping as more time passed and the looks on the future cultivators' faces became awkward. Lan Zhan's heart dropped. Something was wrong. They said they were married...

"A-Ying?" Xie Lian prompted.

"Ah, you see..." Wei Wuxian grimaced as he scratched the back of his head. "Lanzhanandieloped."

"Speak like a human, idiot!" Jiang Cheng shouted.

"Lan Zhan and I eloped." Wei Wuxian repeated as he avoided eye contact with his adoptive parents. The hall remained silent for a moment before hell broke loose in the form of furious Heavenly Gods and Ghost Kings.

"LAN WANGJI! WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?!?!" demanded Hua Cheng.

Lan Wangji stood before Xie Lian and Hua Cheng as he bowed deeply. "Wangji failed to provide Wei Ying with the wedding he deserves."

"Lan Zhan! I told you we didn't need one!" Wei Wuxian interjected.

"You couldn't even give him a proper wedding?" Mu Qing and Feng Xin asked together before both crossing their arms over their chests.

"The cultivation world was still not accepting of A-Xian even though his name was cleared." Lan-xiansheng explained. "I am ashamed to say that the Gusu Lan Elders, myself included, refused to allow Wangji and A-Xian to marry."

"I, unfortunately, had just secluded myself and refused visitors so I was not informed until it was too late. Gusu Lan's Elders did not believe Wangji would leave the sect for Wei Wuxian. They underestimated the 13 year grief Wangji endured. Wangji left the sect to travel with A-Xian and when they finally returned, they had already eloped."

"The son of a servant dares to dream of wearing red and taking bows. To a Young Master of a noble sect, nonetheless!" Yu Ziyuan sneered. "How laughable!"

"San Niang!"

"A-Niang!"

"A-Niang!"

"YU ZIYUAN!" The voices of the Immortals shook the hall.

"Yu-furen, aren’t you tired?" A voice came from the door in the back. All eyes turned towards the back as a red-robed figure walked through the door. The older time travelers shot up from their seats as a familiar face walked towards them.

"Constantly comparing your family to imaginary standards only to find them lacking? Why can't you be content with your privilege and status? Why take it out on Wei Wuxian if you are unhappy?" The figure continued. "Even if you are not tired, your family must be."

Confusion is evident in the faces of the past cultivators as their eyes flicker from Wei Wuxian's tearful eyes and Wen Qionglin's wide eyes. Wen Qing furrowed her eyebrows at their reactions to the newcomer.

With a small smile, the figure bowed in greeting to Xie Lian and Hua Cheng before turning to face the cultivators. "A-Ning. A-Xian."

"Jie…" whispered Wen Qionglin.

Wei Wuxian's knees buckled and he fell back into his husband's chest as arms wrapped around his waist to steady him. "Qing-jie…"

Chapter Text

Wen Qing watched as her older self made her way towards Wei Wuxian and Wen Qionglin. Their reactions puzzled her until she remembered what they were shown previously. She had been turned to ash by the Jins. The two men had not seen that version of her for over two decades.

Recalling that Wen Qing had fallen victim to the Jin's greed mere years from now, the past cultivators were confused as to how this version of her was here before them. There were no signs to indicate that she was a ghost or even a fierce corpse like her brother. It was obvious that she knew the Heavenly Gods and Ghost Kings. But, what exactly was she?

They observed the stark difference between the Wen Qing of their time and her older self. Although her face was fierce, her eyes softened when they landed on Wen Qionglin and Wei Wuxian. While the younger Wen Qing carried herself with maturity, her older self exuded confidence while her eyes carried deep sorrow.

They say the eyes are the windows to one's soul. If they looked into every one of the time travelers' eyes, would they find similar sorrows? Loss? Grief? Death? Destruction? Betrayal? Forgiveness? Repentance?

The older Wen Qing stopped before Wen Qionglin and reached a hand out to cup his cheek. If the fierce corpse could produce tears, they would be falling from Wen Qionglin's eyes. Instead his eyes drank up the sight of his sister in her resplendent glory.

Gone were the gaunt cheeks and dry cracked lips from their days in the Burial Mounds. Her brown eyes looked back at him with unshed tears before firm hands pulled him into a hug. He gently wrapped his arms around his sister, being careful not to crush her with his strength. "Jie!"

"A-Ning!" Wen Qing breathed out. "Jiejie is sorry I was not able to stay by your side longer."

"You're here now!" Wen Qionglin replied eagerly. "You're here now."

Wen Qing released her brother as her eyes locked on Wei Wuxian. Walking over to stand before the man she has long accepted as a younger brother, Wen Qing reached out a hand to cup his cheek. Wei Wuxian's eyes met hers as he leaned his cheek into her palm with a sad smile.

In a flash, Wei Wuxian's ear is firmly pinched between her fingers as she pulls his head down to reprimand him as a mother would an errant child. "WEI WUXIAN!!"

"Ouch! Ouch! Qing-jie! That hurts!"

Future and past cultivators flinch at the all too familiar torture technique employed by the matriarchs of their families. Looks of sympathy are sent Wei Wuxian's way but no one moves to intervene. One knows better than to get in between a pissed off lady and the target of her fury.

"THE NEXT TIME YOU DECIDE TO BUILD A 'GARDEN' IN THE GHOST CITY OR THE HEAVENLY COURTS, STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM THE MEDICINAL HERBS FIELDS! DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG IT TOOK ME TO CLEAR YOUR STUPID DEVIL'S VINE?!?!?! 6 YEARS!" Wen Qing continued to rage.

"AND DON'T GET ME STARTED ON THOSE STUPID MONSTROSITIES YOU DREW WITH THE WUSE BI! WHAT 10 YEAR OLD KID DRAWS CREATURES THAT INSANELY POWERFUL?!?!?! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!?!? DO I NEED TO STAB YOU WITH MY NEEDLES FOR YOU TO LISTEN?!?!" Wen Qing finished as she panted to catch her breath.

Wei Wuxian, "At least it wasn't radishes!"

Silence overtook the hall as cultivators watched with mouths hanging open. Wen Ning exchanged shocked looks with his sister as they turned back to the scene in front of them. 'Jie doesn't like touching others unless she's treating them. Wei-gongzi really did become closer to Jie and I in the future.'

Several silent moments passed as the older Wen Qing continued to glare at Wei Wuxian. Slowly, a soft chuckle rose from Wei Wuxian's throat. Before long, more chuckles followed.

Lan Jingyi, "Uhm… Wei-qianbei? Are you ok?"

Jiang Wanyin, "He's finally lost what's left of his mind."

The chuckle grew to full on laughter when Wen Qing herself let out a chuckle. A stiff smile cracks on Wen Qionglin's face as he slightly tilts his head to the side. Before anyone could make sense of the situation, Wen Qing had released Wei Wuxian's ear and pulled him into a hug. "I'm sorry, A-Xian. If I had known our surrender would have made no difference, I would not have willingly gone to Jinlintai. Things would have been different."

Wei Wuxian shook his head and pulled back in her arms. "Qing-jie! You did what you thought was best for the rest of us. You couldn't have known he would go back on his words."

Wen Qing, "But I saw all those men he sent to try and recruit you. I saw all the things they tried to do to get to you. I should have questioned their offer. Gone to Hanguang-jun or even Jiang Wanyin. We shouldn't have just left you there immobilized."

Wei Wuxian hushed her cries as he rubbed her back. "It’s in the past now. We're here together with our family. But, Qing-jie… how?"

Wen Qing released a sigh. "When I came to after the events at Jinlintai, I found I had been roaming aimlessly through Lanling for years. The Jins were so caught up in their ‘victory’ over the Yiling Laozu that they refused to take on any night hunts that were considered beneath them. That left their civilians to fend for themselves or to find rogue cultivators therefore I was able to freely move around for so long."

The leaders of the Great Sects frowned at this bit of information. Dealing with resentful creatures and beings were the jobs of cultivators. Each sect owned their own lands and territory therefore they were obligated to maintain safety for the civilians who reside there.

It's common for sects to differ the smaller nighthunts to less experienced disciples but they were never fully ignored or denied help. If this happened for years then were the other sects complacent as well? Or were they too scared to say anything like with the Wens?

"That was when I learned that the Jins still incited the other sects after our surrender to lead a siege on the Burial Mounds and massacred everyone. That Jiang Wanyin himself stabbed you before your fierce corpses tore you apart.” Wen Qing narrowed her eyes at Jiang Wanyin as she spoke.

Wei Wuxian laughed nervously, "Ah… Qing-jie. Let's discuss that later. I'm sure we'll be shown what happened then sooner or later. This array is quite… thorough."

Glaring at Wei Wuxian, Wen Qing replied, "Fine. But don't expect me to change my mind about him." Wei Wuxian nodded as Jiang Wanyin looked anywhere but at the older Wen Qing.

"I spotted Jin Guangyao slipping into a questionable brothel. He had traces of resentful energy that seemed similar to those emitted from the amulet on him so I followed him. I saw him meet with Xue Yang and ordered him to ‘clean up’ a loose end for him.”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes looked to Meng Yao to watch his reaction. “He ordered Xue Yang to burn down a brothel in Yunping. He built a Guanyin temple in its place.”

Something flickered in the man’s eyes before it was quickly replaced with a blank expression. Eyes still on the man, Wei Wuxian continued. “Only one person survived that night. Only because she was nice to Madam Meng and her son. However, she was locked away still so that no one could link him to the crime.”

Meng Yao’s eyebrows furrowed as he thought back on his time at the brothel. The only person that was nice or even willing to help himself and his mother was Sisi. If he truly gave in to his fantasy of burning the brothel to the ground, something had pushed him to that point. It was a big leap from dreaming of doing something so evil to actually doing it. No matter how much he despised that place and the women inside it.

Unbeknownst to him, four pairs of eyes were observing him. Wei Wuxian and Zewu-jun observed the man to gauge if his murderous scheming and manipulations had already begun. Nie Mingjue and Lan Xichen watched the man for any hint of the deceptive man his future self had become. Even after everything they’ve been told about Jin Guangyao, it was hard for them to reconcile this man before them with the one in the future.

Wen Qing, “I followed Jin Guangyao back to Jinlintai where he headed to a hidden part of the dungeons. It was there that I found A-Ning chained to the wall and unresponsive like his consciousness was once again gone. They had drawn a spirit containment array there as a fail safe and I was trapped there alongside A-Ning. Jin Guangyao often came with either Jin Guangshan, Xue Yang, or that one over there -" she points to Su She. "- to try different ways to control A-Ning but they failed. Jin Guangyao eventually gave the order to drill those nails into A-Ning’s head.”

“Nails?!?!”
“What kind of monsters think of these things?!?!”

Zewu-jun closed his eyes to absorb the pain that came with Wen Qing’s words. He had held hope that Jin Guangyao did not actively partake in trying to recreate Wei Wuxian’s mastery over resentful energy. They knew Jin Guangshan had ordered it to be done and Jin Guangyao would delegate the tasks to others like Xue Yang. Jin Guangyao died before a full investigation could be done so the full extent of his involvement and crimes were still unknown. Knowing he had willingly instigated Nie Mingjue’s Qi deviation with his own hands was already a hard pill to swallow. Now they will know just how far he went to please his father.

“I only recognized Xian-ge as master. No matter what was done, they would never be able to fully control me against my will even with those nails.” Wen Qionglin explained.

Wen Qing, “Then one day I heard Wei Wuxian’s voice and A-Ning broke free from the chains. When he escaped, the containment array was destroyed and I was able to leave. Hua Chengzhu found me and brought me back to the Ghost City."

Xie Lian, "Wen-Shenyi worked her way to become the Ghost Doctor the past decade. It was only recently that she ascended as the new Goddess of Medicine."

'Goddess of Medicine? Me?' Wen Qing watched wide-eyed. Never in her wildest dreams would she have thought to ascend. Immortality was rare enough as it was.

Seeing her internal struggle, Shi Qingxuan spoke up. "Wen-yishi, the potential to ascend is determined when your soul is born. The determining factor is how you cultivate that potential. Your tireless efforts to save people and your thirst for medical knowledge is the reason for your ascension."

"What's more important…" Xie Lian pulled her attention to him. "Is that you did not allow yourself to fall into the pits of resentment that would have corrupted you. Though, I wouldn't have blamed you if you did."

"I knew you were meant for grander things! Now we have to make sure you're on your way to ascension again! Only this time, no one is dying!" Wei Wuxian smiled brightly at her as Wen Qionglin nodded at his side.

Wen-Shenyi bowed her head towards Xie Lian before walking over to Su She. Little by little, she healed the man's broken joints. "I do not like you. The things you have done in the past are despicable and underhanded. I am only healing because you have yet to commit the wrongs of your future self. But disrespect Wei Wuxian and his loved ones again, you will have me to contend with."

Memories of an angry Wen Qing chasing Wei Wuxian around the Burial Mounds settlement flashed in Wei Wuxian and Wei Ying's mind. A shiver wracked through their bodies. And people thought the Yiling Laozu was fearsome! They've never faced a pissed off Wen Qing!

"Speaking of family!" Wei Wuxian grabbed Lan Wangji and Lan Sizhui by the arms and pulled them in front of Wen-Shenyi. "You remember my husband, Lan Zhan, right?"

"Lan Wangji? The man you wouldn't stop talking about? The man whose virtues can't be touched by mere mortals? The one to bring smiles to your face whenever he visits the Burial Mounds? That Lan Wangji? As if you would let me forget." Wen-Shenyi asked with a small smile on her face.

"Just how did it take them almost 20 years to be together?" Asked Jiang Cheng.

"It's Wei Wuxian." Jiang Wanyin replied. And for some reason… it made sense to everyone.

Clearing his throat, Wei Wuxian continued with an embarrassed chuckle. "And this is our little radish, Lan Yuan. Lan Sizhui."

Lan Sizhui stepped forward to greet to his aunt. The woman who helped raise him in the Burial Mounds. "A-Yuan greets Qing-gugu."

"A-Yuan?" Wen-Shenyi's eyes shot towards Wei Wuxian before flicking to Wen Qionglin. Both nodded as tears began to fill her eyes. Her hand shot out to cup both of Lan Sizhui's cheeks while her eyes looked over his features to find any sign of the little boy she once knew.

"You look so much like your father. When I heard that everyone in the Burial Mounds were killed, I thought..." Wen-shenyi pulled Lan Sizhui into a tight hug. "Thank the Heavens you're safe!"

Wei Wuxian, "Lan Zhan found him and brought him back to The Cloud Recesses. Adopted him as his own son."

Wen-Shenyi bowed deeply in gratitude to Lan Wangji. "Our family owes you a great debt, Hanguang-jun."

"It was what should be done. " Lan Wangji replied. "A-Yuan is Wei Ying's son. Our son."

Curious to the origins of his grand-nephew, Lan-xiansheng asked, "Wen-Shenyi, if you do not mind my asking. Who are Lan Sizhui's birth parents?"

Wen-Shenyi faltered for a moment while locking eyes with her younger self. After a moment, she finally replied. "While everyone was at the Archery Competition, Wen Rouhan sent Wen Xu to Dafan to bring back my family as reassurance for my continued cooperation to help him stave off the effect of resentful energy. Wen Xu had an...obsession with my cousin Wen Yan and used this opportunity to force himself on her. A-Yuan was born during the war not long before Nie-zongzhu beheaded Wen Xu. Jin Zixun shot his mother with an arrow as she ran away after he raped her after the war. The rest, along with Wen Popo, A-Yuan, and 5 other children, were sent to the labor camp at Qiongqi Path."

Pain crossed Zewu-jun's features. "There were 5 other children?"

Wen-Shenyi, "Only A-Yuan survived by the time Wei Wuxian freed the remnants from the labor camps. If he hadn't come when he did, I'm not sure if A-Yuan would have made it."

"So much pain and suffering, all for the greed of two men." Xie Lian sighed. "Shall we return to the viewing? There's much more to learn and questions might be answered as we go along."

As everyone returned to their seats, Wen-Shenyi sat down next to Wen Qionglin and held his hand as she smiled towards Lan Sizhui. Her family is together again.

"Hundreds of evil spirits dwell in this stone forest. Whomever shoots the most evil spirits wins. Flares will indicate Sect color when targets are hit. Wrong shots or missed shots are indicated by black flares. Those result in disqualification and you must immediately leave the field. Open the array! The archery hunt officially...BEGINS!"

Each Sect lines up to enter the hunting grounds from their allocated entrance. Wei Wuxian watched on as the Wens shuffled around to fill their spots. "The Wen Sect’s…terrible archery skills are on the same level as each other. It wouldn't matter who goes. Why even fight for a spot?"

“Another one! We’re still short one! Hurry it up!” Wen Chao shouted from his seat.

In the bustle of Wen disciples rushing to fill spots for the archery competition, Wen Qionglin stood waiting to be noticed and hopefully picked. After the frantic shuffling settled down, one of the group leaders finally noticed him. “Wen Qionglin? You want to participate too?”

“This was the guy that everyone in the future is so scared of?”
“Maybe he was more scary once he got turned into a fierce corpse?”
“Well… he’s sitting right there in front of us. Does he look scary to you?”
“He looks… adorable actually.”

Wen Qionglin shifted uncomfortably in his seat while the past cultivators continued their discussion about him.

Ouyang Zizhen, “Well… at least they’re not trying to kill you anymore.”

Wen Qionglin nodded his head as another disciple laughed, “I’ve never seen you pick up a bow and you want to participate?! Don’t waste the spot.”

The group leader noticed Wen Qionglin wanted to protest so he interjected, “Alright, alright. If you go out there and lose your own face, it’s not my problem.”

Wei Wuxian laughed at the man’s statement. ‘Lose face? If anyone in the Qishan Wen Sect had the skill to bring any face to you, it’d be him!’

Nie Mingjue scoffs, “They should have let him participate instead of Wen Chao. Maybe then they would have at least ranked in the top 10.”

Lan Xichen nods, “With what we have seen, he has a good foundation to do well.”

Wen Qionglin lowered his eyes to the ground as he bowed his head. Embarrassed by the sudden attention. Before he could turn around to leave the field, a voice called out.

“Who said that he’s never picked up a bow?” Wei Wuxian asked. “He has. His archery is quite good!”

Wen Ning smiled as he watched this moment play out on the cloth. Even though he embarrassed himself and Wei Wuxian, it was still one of the best days of his life. The day he met someone who was genuinely kind to him.

Everyone looked at him somewhat surprised. They then turned to look at the boy. Wen Qionglin's face was rather pale to begin with. Because of how everyone’s eyes centered on him, it immediately became bright red.

Wen Chao's attention was pulled to the disciple who had spoken up. "You… You're that… Wei Wuxian? I hear that your archery is pretty good."

"Good enough for shooting pheasants." Wei Wuxian shrugged.

"Our evil spirit targets are nothing like your stupid pheasants. They won't stay still and wait to be shot." Wen Chao sneered. "Wen Ning, he said you can shoot. Let's see what you've got."

Mu Qing, “Is he really that stupid?”

Shi Qingxuan, “Obviously he has never hunted pheasants in his life.”

Feng Xin, “Or there’s something wrong with the Qishan Wen pheasants.”

Wen-Shenyi, "Wen Chao only stood by as the Wen disciples did all the work."

Shaking from nerves, Wen Qionglin answered in a low voice, "… I… I only just started practicing recently…"

Wen Chao interrupted impatiently as he looked away to sip his wine, "There’s a target over there. Shoot an arrow for us to see. If you make it then go, if it’s not then leave."

Space was made around Wen Qionglin and the target. His hand shook as he tightly clenched the bow. Wei Wuxian placed a hand on his shoulder when he noticed the boy's lack of confidence, "Relax. Just do it like you did before."

Lan Sizhui, "Wei-qianbei has always been a great teacher."

"He's not the Head Disciple for nothing, you know!" Jiang Cheng responded with a hint of pride. Jiang Fengmian had a small smile on his lips as he nodded his head in agreement.

Lan-xiansheng, "He has the ability to connect with the students in a way that we’re not able to. And that's what makes his skills so invaluable."

Wen Qionglin shot him a grateful smile before he took a deep breath and drew his bow. Wei Wuxian shook his head and sighed internally. 'The way he's shaking… Looks like he's never shot in front of others. That's going to cause him trouble.'

The arrow flew a short distance and didn’t even reach anywhere near the target. Mocking laughter ripped through the Wens as Wen Chao spit out his wine as he laughed.

“How is that any good?!?!”
"If he thinks that's good, this competition is going to be easy!"
“I can do better with my eyes closed.”
"What a joke!"

"Great, you're so great!" Wen Chao wiped his mouth before sneering. "What are you still standing there for? Waiting for me to kick you out? Find someone else for that final spot!"

"I can’t believe this is one of the young masters of a Sect!"
"They've grown so powerful that they can't be bothered to be nice to their own fellow disciples."

Red-faced, Wen Qionglin turned to run away, self-conscious and embarrassed.

"Hey, don’t run! Qionglin-xiong!" Hearing his name being called, Wen Qionglin stopped and turned to see Wei Wuxian behind him.

"Why are you running?" Wei Wuxian asked.

Head hanging low, Wen Qionglin stammered,"… I’m sorry."

Confused, Wei Wuxian asked, "Why are you saying sorry to me?"

Wen Qionglin, "Y-You recom-m-mended me. B-But I made you... lose face."

Wei Wuxian, "Did I lose face? You haven’t shot in front of others, have you? Were you nervous?"

"Wen-gongzi, it's not easy to perform in front of others especially if it's the first time. You did exceptionally well." Jiang Fengmian complimented.

Nie Mingjue and Lan Xichen nodded in agreement. "For someone who is essentially self-taught, your skills are quite impressive." Nie Mingjue added.

Lan Xichen, "In the future, if you would like more practice, The Cloud Recesses will always welcome you."

Blushing from the compliments and encouragement, Wen Ning stood from his seat and bowed to the Sect leaders in gratitude. "Wen Ning t-thanks you f-for your kind words and w-will continue t-to work on my s-skills."

At Wen Qionglin's nod, Wei Wuxian continued. "Have some confidence! To tell you the truth, you're a better shot than anyone in your sect. Out of all those I have seen, only three people are better with the bow than you."

Jiang Cheng caught the tail end of the conversation as he walked over, "What troubles are you causing this time? Three of what?"

Wei Wuxian smirked as his eye twinkled mischievously before pointing at Jiang Wanyin. "For example, this one. He’s not as good as you."

Jin Ling, "You're one of the best archery teachers now. I even trained with you for a while."

Jiang Wanyin looked at his nephew in shock, "You did? When was this?"

"Right before the last Discussion Conference in the Cloud Recesses. Wen Qionglin happened upon me in the back hills." Jin Ling scratched the back of his head. "My nerves were getting to me because it was right before the Elders' evaluation to become an Archery Master."

Jiang Wanyin furrowed his eyebrows, "I thought Wei Wuxian helped you with that."

Jin Ling, "They both did. Wen Qionglin stepped in when Da-jiu had to attend to his duties."

Jiang Wanyin's face scrunched up before he shoved Wei Wuxian from the back, "Yah! Do you want to die?!?"

Wei Wuxian forced his face to remain calm as pain shot through his back from the lashing he received last night for asking Shijie to help him cook the dish for Lan Wangji.

"There's nothing to be nervous about. Keep practicing in front of others and you'll gain confidence in no time! Next time, you'll leave all of them shocked and amazed!" Wei Wuxian encouraged the younger boy.

'He has potential. But without proper guidance, he's going to end up hiding his true self and never develop his talent.' Wei Wuxian thought to himself as he continued to encourage the younger boy with helpful corrections in his stance and where to focus for faster growth and improvement.

Wen Qionglin stood captivated as he listened attentively. His eyes trained on Wei Wuxian with awe and admiration as he nodded his head uncontrollably.

Lan Xichen, "Wei-gongzi-"

Wei Wuxian chuckled, "Xichen-ge, at this point shouldn't you be less formal with me? At least call Little Me and I, Wuxian."

Chuckling, Lan Xichen amended, "Wuxian, how many lessons are you in charge of in The CloudRecesses?"

"Aside from Talismans, I'm also in charge of Archery and a few different sparring workshops along with nighthunts."

Lan Qiren, "Sparring workshop?"

Lan-xiansheng, "He trains the disciples to use dianxue as well as hand to hand combat while their Golden Cores are locked away."

Gasps can be heard around the hall at the mention of locking away someone's Golden Core.

"Why would anyone willingly lock away their Golden Cores?"
"I'd rather die than do that!"

"Then that is probably why you didn't make it out of the Sunshot Campaign alive." Jiang Wanyin retorted. "We all rely heavily on our Golden Cores and that is also our weakness."

The past cultivators look at Jiang Wanyin as his words sank in. His tone and conviction hinted at something that none of them wanted to acknowledge. His words sounded almost as if he's experienced it himself. But he was able to control Zidian earlier so it couldn't have been him who lost their core.

Several discerning eyes snapped to Wei Wuxian in trepidation. His behavior and the fact that he was avoiding questions regarding his sword or the lack of it, became red flags. But Wen-yishi had checked him before and said everything was normal.

Watching the Wen boy idolizing his shixiong made something in his chest sour. Jiang Wanyin hurried to pull his shixiong away, "Where did you come up with all this nonsense? The competition's starting soon. Get your ass into the field right now!"

Wei Wuxian continued to speak to Wen Qionglin in a serious tone, "I’m going to head out now. Later, you can see how I shoot when I'm on the field and see what I meant."

Impatiently Jiang Wanyin dragged him away. "See how you shoot? You really think that you’re a role model or something?!?"

Wei Wuxian pretended to think for a moment before replying, "Am I not?"

Jiang Wanyin, "Wei Wuxian! I haven’t seen anyone as shameless as you!"

Nie Huaisang, "Wei-xiong! You're my inspiration! I will paint a new masterpiece in your name!"

Wei Ying, "Nie-xiong… I charge for my time! A master cannot give away his secrets for free!"

Nie Huaisang, "Ah! I will send my best collection your way! Oh! Wait! No, no, no! I have to amass a new collection to… assist… you-"

Hua Cheng glared at Nie Huaisang, "Nie Huaisang. I will lay fire to all your precious treasures if you complete that sentence."

Fear flashed in Nie Huaisang's eyes before he cowered behind his older brother. His eyes silently communicate with Wei Ying that he will still send the goods over.

On the rocky competition field, the Jiang disciples stand amongst rocks and stone pillars. Each looking in a different direction in search of targets.

"Where are the evil spirits?"

Feeling like they are wasting time, Jiang Wanyin spoke up. "Let's split up and meet at the exit."

Jiang Cheng covered his face as Wei Ying let out a snort. Their reactions sparked curiosity in the younger time travelers.

Wei Wuxian follows behind Jiang Wanyin as they flatten themselves against the rocks to squeeze into a tight space between the rocks. "Where on earth are you leading us?"

"Shut up and stop complaining! Just keep up." Jiang Wanyin shouted back at Wei Wuxian before turning back around to continue forward. His head slammed against a low hanging stalactite.

For a moment, the cultivators only flinched at the man's pain. Who hasn't felt the pain of running into something while not paying attention?

Wei Wuxian and Jiang Wanyin are on all fours crawling through a low tunnel as Jiang Wanyin led the way. "Hey! Why don't we just go back to where we started? Don't worry, I won't tell anybody where we were."

"Shut up!!" Jiang Wanyin turned his head back to yell at Wei Wuxian, not paying attention to the path before him. His head slams into a low ledge as he turns his head back towards the front again. Wei Wuxian's laughter rings through the cavern.

Laughter breaks out this time as the poor man rubbed his forehead.

Nie Mingjue, "Maybe you should stop looking at Wei Wuxian whenever you're in a tough spot. It would cause less… headaches."

Jiang Wanyin rubs his forehead as they make their way through several stone openings. The sky got darker as they walked.

"Hey, Jiang Cheng."

"What now?"

"Look!" Wei Wuxian pointed to the sky where three shadow puppets flew.

"Those are... the evil spirit targets!" Jiang Wanyin exclaimed in excitement, grabbing the attention of the puppets. Pulling an arrow from his quiver, Jiang Wanyin "injured" one puppet but before he could notch another arrow, another was inches from his face. There was no time to deflect so he braced for impact.

"A-Cheng!"

An arrow flew across the cloth and pierced through the puppet from behind.

"You're welcome!" Wei Wuxian shouted from a high ledge as he shot down the remaining puppets with ease.

"Whoa!"
"Impressive!"
"And so quickly too!"

Nie Mingjue, "Those puppets seemed faster and more vicious than previous years. Did you notice that, Xichen?"

Lan Xichen, "I did. Though I didn't think they would come that close so forcefully."

Wen-shenyi, "Wen Ruohan infused some resentful energy into each one to make them more vicious and harder to hunt. He was experimenting with resentful energies and forcing me to treat the damage caused to his body from it."

Wen Rouhan was messing with resentful energy? They've seen the power Wei Wuxian exuded, how much worse would Wen Ruohan become? He didn’t have the morals or the willpower that Wei Wuxian does to stay on the straight and narrow. The sooner they took the Wen sect leader the safer it would be for everyone.

Jiang Cheng chanced a glance at his mother. He had missed his chance to score the first points in the competition and even had to be rescued. Although pale, Yu Ziyuan's face clearly showed her disappointment.