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Chapter Text

One day, after exterminating a particular wicked demonic cultivator, Jiang Cheng accidentally touched a black tinted mirror brimming with resentful energy and before Jiang Cheng realised what had happened, he had been transported to another world!

He had entered into a world of villains and magic. Of mischief and hidden secrets. The world of Twisted Wonderland. He survived the twists and turns. He survived the Overblots. He had made friends with the people there.

He felt…seen.

No pressures of raising a dying sect. No pressures of being a Sect leader. No duties that chain him down.

He could be just Jiang Cheng.

However, life was never in Jiang Cheng’s favour when one day he returns back to his original world.

The hollowness appeared once more and festered when he had returned to the world where he lost everything.

He misses them dearly…

Grimm…

The students…

The teachers…

And then five years later, Wei Wuxian returns back to life and the Cultivation world is surprised by the truths that are revealed. Some truths cut even deeper into Jiang Cheng.

Every time he looks at a mirror, he wonders.

Chapter Text

Jiang Cheng sighs. It has become rather dull here in Lotus Pier. Everything seems so peaceful it hurts Jiang Cheng’s eyes.

It is not a surprise that Jiang Cheng, the sect leader of Yunmeng Jiang is a lonely man. With a thorny personality like his mother, a foul temper and the inability to fully trust others, it is difficult for him to connect much with people.

Especially after the Burning of Lotus Pier and the end of the Sunshot Campaign, Jiang Cheng has no time for himself to be in a relationship. There are places that needs to be rebuild and politics that needs manoeuvring to ensure that the sect rises back up to its glory.

He hears the wretched rumours regarding his person. How unfortunate that the late Jiang Fengmian had a son that too much like his unloved mother. How he favours his ward Wei Wuxian more than his flesh and blood. A ward who is naturally gifted in the Six Arts and cultivation whereas his flesh and blood is slow to pick up in both areas. An average son who is overlooked by the talented ward.

Petty, jealous bitches. If only they knew just how much Jiang Cheng had sacrificed to ensure that Yunmeng Jiang remained as a Great Sect in the cultivation world.

Ever since the incident at Guanyin Temple, life has been a bore to him. He hopes for something interesting to happen. He had wasted no time to ensure that his nephew, Jin Ling’s position is protected from any who would try to usurp him in Lanling Jin.

Although he constantly worries for his nephew’s safety in that den of snakes, he had come to accept the facts that he must let Jin Ling learn on his own. But that doesn’t mean as his uncle, he would not be there when his nephew needs him to be.

He spares no thoughts for his former shixiong. After all the lies and secrets, his shixiong said that everything they had should be left in the past. All his debts are paid to Jiang Cheng’s family. After the incident, he had heard that Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji eloped and went off travelling around the world doing god knows what. Honestly, how shameless must those two be. To elope and fucking off to god knows where while the brother of the so called peerless Jade had his whole world crumbled and enter into seclusion.

There should be a limit to how much shamelessness one can have.

Jiang Cheng stares out from the window of his office to nearby lake in sight.

Memories from a time long past began to drift.

-FLASHBACK-

“Lets go for a swim Shrimpy!” A voice called out to Jiang Cheng from his musings. Jiang Cheng stares towards the source of the voice. The voice belonged to a tall boy with short, straight-cut hair that’s teal in colour, with short bangs and one long streak of dark-gray hair framing his right side. His eyes have complete heterochromia, with his right eye being yellow, and his left eye being olive-brown. Said boy didn’t waste and pulled Jiang Cheng towards a building. At the centre of the building, there is a large and wide swimming pool.

“Why are you bringing me here Floyd?” Jiang Cheng asks.

The teal haired male merely shrugged. “I got bored and wanted to swim. I saw Shrimpy there and thought he wants to go for a swim too.”

Well…Jiang Cheng had pretty much nothing to do. He and Grim had finished all their classes for the day and Grim wanted to take a nap back at Ramshackle dorm, so that left Jiang Cheng with plenty of time for himself. He was taking a walk to be alone with his thoughts until he encountered his senior.

“Alright then, but I didn’t bring any swimming attire you know? How can I go swimming if I have nothing to wear?”

A piece of cloth smacks Jiang Cheng in the face. After letting out a yelp of shock, he sees that it is a pair of swimming trunks in his hands.

“I got them just for you.” Floyd says as he proceeds to take off all his clothes until he bare naked under the sky.

Jiang Cheng’s eye twitched at the sight. Honestly, this boy does whatever he wants whenever he wants at the drop of a hat. One minute he would happy without care and the next he would be sulking and moody. Truly it takes patience to ever deal with Floyd and his mood swings. Jiang Cheng would be pissed by such an attitude, but he finds that he doesn’t really care much.

A happy Floyd is easier to take care of than a moody Floyd. Even his nephew isn’t this temperamental.

‘What a brat.’ Jiang Cheng sighs with affection inwardly.

After undressing, Floyd dives into the pool. A brief moment later, his head popped out to the surface with a more aquatic look to him.

“Jump in Shrimpy!” Floyd called out before diving back right into the water.

Ah right, Jiang Cheng almost forgot that Floyd is a merfolk. He recalled the first time he saw the Leech brothers in their merfolk form when he had to save his dumbass friends from their contract with Azul.

Changing into his own swimwear, Jiang Cheng ran and dive right into the pool.

As he is fully submerged in the water, he sees Floyd swimming towards him with a happy manic expression. Manoeuvring his body quickly, he dodged Floyd’s tackle and swam away. This however did not deter the eel merfolk at all as he twists his body and gave chase at Jiang Cheng.

Every time he tries to catch Jiang Cheng, the other boy would dodge his tackle.

This went on and on for 10 minutes until Jiang Cheng swam up to the surface to catch some air.

Jiang Cheng swam up to get some air. Few moments later, Floyd’s head also pops out to the surface.

“That was fun Shrimpy! The way how you managed to dodge and out swim me is interesting! I thought you were part merfolk with the way you swam just now.” Floyd says happily.

Jiang Cheng scoff. “Nah, I’m pure human. Just a child of lakes and rivers. The place where I am born from is filled with lakes and rivers. The moment I was born I was taught to swim and I was natural at it too.” He says smugly.

Floyd swims slowly towards Jiang Cheng and brings him to Floyd’s chest. The merfolk wrapped his arms around Jiang Cheng as he lays back to float the both of them. Jiang Cheng didn’t have it in him to resist Floyd and allows himself to relax on his senior’s body. He turns his body so that his face is facing upwards towards the sky. It seems like a nice cloudy day today.

“Ne…Shrimpy. Will you ever tell me about the scars on your chest? No pressure or anything but I’m just curious.” Floyd asks.

Eyes closed, Jiang Cheng felt Floyd’s fingers trailing at the scars on his chest. He should feel ashamed of his scars but Floyd isn’t someone who would betray his trust like that.

Taking a deep breath before letting go a sigh, he talks.

“This scar…it was given to me by some very bad people who wanted to hurt me.” He starts. “They hurt me because they believe that they were in the right to hurt me. Because no one could stop them.”

He feels Floyd’s arm began to tighten around him.

“If I ever meet these people Shrimpy…I’ll strangle them until they’re dead.” He says with a low and dangerous tone of voice.

Jiang Cheng wraps his left arm backwards and ruffles Floyd’s hair. It feels soft and silky in Jiang Cheng’s hand.

“Don’t bother Floyd. Those people are long dead. I made sure of that…” He murmurs at the end.

Floyd doesn’t seem to care much and both of them just relaxed in the middle of the pool without a care to the world.

They were there until Jade, Floyd’s twin brother had come to collect them as the hour was getting late and that they need to return to their respective dorms.

-FLASHBACK ENDS-

Jiang Cheng’s trip down memory road was interrupted by the appearance of his Second in Command. Yu Yejuan, a distant cousin from Meishan Yu who had joined Yunmeng Jiang and has so far been able to keep up with the duties at hand as a Second in Command. She’s also someone that Jiang Cheng himself has learn to trust all these years.

She steps into his office with grace and bows in greeting. “Sect leader Jiang. The hour seems to be late. It would be preferable if Sect leader were to take a rest. This disciple will ensure that the paperworks will remain as they are for tomorrow if Sect leader wishes to review them again.”

Jiang Cheng looks down at the scroll he is holding. He wasn’t even focusing on the contents and saw that the night sky had taken over the day. Damn…he must have gone deep with his memories.

“Very well. I’ll go to my rooms.” He said as he puts down the scroll on his desk and began to exit the office.

Yu Yejuan looks up to her sect leader with surprise. Normally she would have to fight tooth and nail to ensure that her sect leader gets the appropriate rest. Nowadays it seems that he looks…unfocused or even bored out of his wits. She fears if there is something wrong with her cousin but so far he hasn’t been showing any adverse behaviour to suggest otherwise.

After the incident of Guanyin Temple, her cousin looked dead on the inside.

Perhaps he had been like ever since that time where he had been missing for a week after hunting that one demonic cultivator. When he reappeared, he was still the same as he was. She had check with the healers themselves and they could not find any curse or illness inside the sect leader.

She watches him leave the office with a silent worry in her heart.

In his room to get ready for bed, Jiang Cheng looks at the vanity mirror in his room. All he could see is own sad reflection. He steps closer to the mirror and gently caress it with his fingers.

“Mirror mirror on the wall, show me their faces once more.” He chants softly.

A few moments passed. Another moment.

Nothing.

Just him and his reflection.

He sighs and slips under the covers of his bed. He closes his eyes and tries to sleep.

If there were any tears that night, only he himself would know it.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling is worried about his Jiujiu.

Although on the outside he looks well put, doing all his sect duties to the letter. But still there is something that is nagging at him that there is something missing about his Jiujiu.

He can’t put a finger on what it is but he knows it’s there.

Ever since Guanyin Temple, there is a hollowness surrounding his Jiujiu. He thought that it had something to do with Wei Wuxian, with what the truth of the Golden Core and all that. But that doesn’t seem like it too. Jiujiu made no mention of Wei Wuxian, even though he knows that Jiujiu knows that he has been hanging out too much with the Lan juniors and by extension with Wei Wuxian, Hanguang-Jun and Wen Ning.

Jin Ling is a bit wary of Wen Ning, but he has learned to slowly forgive the man or corpse but it would too soon for complete forgiveness.

But Jin Ling still made time to visit his Jiujiu and hang out with him whether ask for wisdom regarding on handling the sect or just spending time with him.

His Jiujiu always has that faraway look on him that Jin Ling doesn’t know how to approach the topic.

He had asked Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi and Ouyang Zizhen about this one night after finishing up a Night Hunt.

“I think you’re overthinking this, Jin-xiong.” Ouyang Zizhen says.

“Yeah, Young Mistress. You’re overthinking about this. This is Sandu Sengshou we’re talking about. He’s always alone. I mean with his uneasy personality and his reputation, no one is surprised by it.” Lan Jingyi shrugs.

Jin Ling turns to Lan Jingyi in anger. He grabs the collars of the Lan’s robes furiously.

“Have care what you say, Lan Jingyi! Despite what people might say about him, he is still my Jiujiu. I will fucking beat you if you ever disrespect him!” Jin Ling roars.

Before a brawl would incur between Ouyang Zizhen and Lan Sizhui acted quickly to separate the both of them from punching the other.

“What the hell is your problem!?” Lan Jingyi shouts.

“My problem is that you don’t shut the fuck the up!” Jin Ling roars. “I know that you are bias towards your fucking Hanguang-jun and Wei Wuxian’s opinions. If you don’t have anything useful to say, shut your whore mouth and get out of my sight!”

“That’s rich coming from you, Young mistress. Everyone knows that your uncle is a hateful man. Killing innocents just because he thought that they were Wei Wuxian. Even his people are afraid to go against his tyranny. Besides, his personality is so bad no one wants to deal with him. Even someone easy going as Senior Wei knows better to leave him than deal with him everyday. And wasn’t he the one that abandon Senior Wei and the Wen remnants when they needed help just so he could hold his power? What does that say about him? That he’s a hateful and angry man with no love in his heart!” The Lan retorts back.

“Jingyi! Enough!” Lan Sizhui shouts. “You have no business to say such things.”

Lan Sizhui turns to Jin Ling. “Jingyi always runs his mouth Jin Ling. Don’t take anything he says to heart.”

He tries to give an appeasing smile in hopes that his two friends would stop fighting.

“I can’t believe you lot.” Jin Ling murmurs as he takes out his sword and flies away regardless of the calling of his name by his friends.

A few months later, inside Koi Tower, Jin Ling was busy handling a number of trade documents regarding land disputes with another minor sect that Ouyang Zizhen entered into his office uninvited.

The Jin Sect leader raised his eyebrow at the sight. “I know that I allowed you guys free access to Koi Tower, but would it kill you to at least tell me when you’re coming so that I can prepare?”

Ouyang Zizhen bowed his head in mock apology. “Ah sorry about that Jin xiong.” He says. His expression turns a bit sombre.

“Regarding what you said about that day. About Sect leader Jiang?” He starts.

Jin Ling stops whatever he was doing; he puts down the documents and looks at the Ouyang heir with narrow eyes. He sits back up straight.

“Why? Are you going to be like Lan Jingyi and say bullshit about my Jiujiu?” He sneers.

Ouyang Zizhen shakes his head. “I mean to say that you are probably right that there might be something wrong about your uncle.”

Jin Ling stood up abruptly and goes to Ouyang Zizhen in a frantic manner.

“Well! Out with then! What do you know!?” He yells, worry evident in his voice.

“Last week, my father went to Lotus Pier to discuss some matters regarding trade and taxes with Sect leader Jiang. He brought me along in order to see how the process goes and maybe to show off to Sect leader Jiang.” Ouyang Zizhen rolls his eyes at the statement. As if Sect leader Jiang would be that impressed.

Jin Ling urges him to carry on.

Ouyang Zizhen clears his throat. “Right…It went like this…”

-FLASHBACK-

Ouyang Zizhen didn’t think that he should be here at this moment but his father would say otherwise. He knows that as the sect heir, he must learn all the ropes of what it means to be a sect leader if he is to inherit the Baling Ouyang sect when his father steps down from the position.

His father would often go to Lotus Pier to deal with Sect leader Jiang due to their sects being close by and that Baling Ouyang is in alliance with Yunmeng Jiang.

He suppose he was being naive, merely thinking that his father doesn’t linger too long with the Yunmeng Sect leader. How wrong his was.

His father is discussing all the taxes and the trade routes with Sect leader Jiang. It seems that said Sect leader is also listening very attentively to his father too. There is not a scowl in sight. Merely a frown of focus on his face.

“I think this would sufficient for both of us wouldn’t you agree Sect leader Jiang?” Sect leader Ouyang asks. He has a look of satisfaction on his face.

Sect leader Jiang merely nods. His face as serious as ever.

“Yes. This deal would be sufficient to both our sects. I am impressed Sect leader Ouyang.” Sect leader says.

Then Ouyang Zizhen’s father face turns into one of concern.

“Forgive me for asking this Sect leader Jiang…but…are you alright?” He asks.

Both Ounyang Zizhen and Sect leader Jiang turn their heads to Sect leader Ouyang in surprise.

“Whatever do you mean, Sect leader Ouyang? I am perfectly fine?” Sect leader Jiang tries to keep calm although he looks like he wants to be anywhere but here.

“Please Sect leader Jiang. We both know that there is something at hand here. Though not many see it, but as someone who could claim to be close to you due to the alliance of both our sects, I have a feeling that you are unwell.” Sect leader Ouyang starts.

Sect leader Jiang waves his hand away as if to wash away such concerns.

“I’m fine Sect leader Ouyang. I have been fine. There is nothing wrong with me.” Sect leader Jiang tries to placate Zizhen’s father. But it seems that his father made it clear that he is not pushing this aside.

“You have this faraway look about you that makes it seem as if there is something missing in your life. You don’t eat or drink enough. You look as if you see someone else whenever you talk to someone. You have been acting as if…as if you don’t belong.” Sect leader Ouyang says.

Now Sect leader Jiang is turning defensive. Ouyang Zizhen is afraid that his father might have gone overboard with what he said. He couldn’t tell whether to be impressed or scared by his father’s actions.

“I don’t know where you are getting these notions about my health, Sect leader Ouyang but you will cease this accusations.” Sect leader Jiang threatens. The violet sparks of Zidian is becoming more apparent on his finger.

Ouyang Zizhen’s father is still pushing on this matter.

“The only time you were like this is when I requested your aid to deal with that demonic cultivator…when you…” Here the Ouyang sect leader begins to falter. He looks scared and concerned for the other sect leader.

“That has nothing to do you…” Sect leader Jiang’s tone is getting lower and dangerous. Ouyang Zizhen is really afraid that his father might die here if he continues to go further with this. Just what is his father trying to achieve here by making the Sandu Sengshou lose his temper!?

“But Sect leader Jiang please-“

Now Sect leader Jiang’s face had become red with anger. Ouyang Zizhen did not expect that he could that bright shade of red.

“YOU WILL KEEP SILENCE ABOUT MATTERS THAT DO NOT CONCERN YOU, DO YOU UNDERSTAND!? ANYMORE FROM YOU AND…AND…” Sect leader Jiang’s breath has become heavy and angry.

“IT’S OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!!!!” And with that he slams his fist with Zidian’s violet sparks smashing the table to smitherens.

Everyone present looked shocked at what had transpired. Zizhen’s father had turned pale with fright.

Sect leader Jiang who had realised what happened, looked ashamed of himself and puts his hand to his face; his body slacking down with tiredness. It was as if the weight had finally dragged the upright sect leader down. Ouyang Zizhen couldn’t believe his eyes at the sight of the fearsome Sandu Sengshou right now.

“We’re done here for today Sect leader Ouyang.” Sect leader Jiang starts, voice very tired. “I will send this documents to my Second in Command to finalise them and to start implementing them to the merchants. You may leave to rest for the night. Forgive me if I won’t be able to see you off tomorrow.” With that, Sect leader Jiang turned around and walked away, leaving both Ouyang men alone at the meeting room.

“Father…”Ouyang Zizhen starts. “What happened?”

Sect leader Ouyang shakes his head and walks away from the meeting room as well. Ouyang Zizhen tries to follow his father’s pace.

“It was my fault, Zizhen. I shouldn’t have pushed him.” His father says.

Before Ouyang Zizhen could say anything, his father continues.

“This is a matter that doesn’t concern you as Sect leader Jiang says. Put it behind you.” His father orders him in a stern voice. “I feel as if Sect leader Jiang is slipping. No, I suppose the better term for it is that he is cracking. Like a mirror with broken shards. I’m afraid of what lies on the other side of the mirror.”

His father just shakes his head and walks away. Muttering about something mirrors and reflections. Ouyang Zizhen couldn’t hear much of it but keeps the information away when he has the chance to meet Jin Ling. Something like this is better to speak of face to face.

-FLASHBACK ENDS-

Jin Ling doesn’t know what to do with what Ouyang Zizhen had told him. Jiujiu is cracking? Cracking from what!? Is he going through a Qi deviation!? How can he help!? Is he going to lose another family member!?

How? What? Why!?

Ouyang Zizhen gently holds Jin Ling’s shoulder to comfort him. “Calm yourself, Jin Ling. It wouldn’t do you good if you’re being anxious.” He tries to soothe his friend.

Jin Ling tries to calm himself down. But he’s scared. He’s scared for his Jiujiu.

Jiujiu is strong…

Jiujiu is suppose to be here for him…

But what is causing Jiujiu this much pain that he couldn’t let his nephew help him?

‘Jiujiu…how can I help you? A-Ling is scared that you might be hurting so much that it will be too late…’

Chapter Text

Jiang Cheng is having a wonderful tea time at Heartslabyul with Riddle at the dorm’s lounge. His eyes close with bliss as the warm liquid goes down his throat. Trey really outdid himself with the flavour of this tea he brewed. Jiang Cheng really needs to ask him for tips; think of how much stress he would lose just by having a taste of Trey’s tea!?

Nothing beats a hard day’s work by drinking some wonderful herbal tea. Riddle wanted to hang out with him while Ace and Deuce were doing their dorm duties. Painting the flamingos and tending to the hedgehogs.

Those are some of the bizarre duties that he had ever seen and heard but then as he is in another world, far be for him to argue of such ways. So whatever bizzare thing that he sees in Twisted Wonderland, best he keeps it to himself.

Riddle sighs as he puts his teacup down. A look of content adorns his soft face. It’s cute that someone so small could hide that much explosive anger but it’s even cuter when he looks relaxed.

“Thank you for taking the time to hang out with me, Jiang Cheng. The duties of a dorm head often keep one too busy that it’s hard to find free time.” Riddle softly sighs. He pours himself another cup of tea. He looks at Jiang Cheng.

“Do you want some more tea?” He offers.

“Sure. Trey’s tea is fucking delicious!” Jiang Cheng happily exclaims.

Riddle gave him a mock look of exasperation but still pours him the tea.

“I would reprimand you for language but yes. Trey’s tea is outstanding. It brings a sweet aroma as well as a balanced taste to it that makes you want to drink more.” The red haired boy says.

Jiang Cheng nods his head in agreement.“Indeed senpai. It leaves you with a sense of calmness as well as a fulfilling emotion from the aftertaste.”

~Sigh~ Both boys sigh with bliss after taking another sip of the tea.

Suddenly a loud muffled crash is heard from outside at the garden area.

“Shit! We accidentally dropped this pink paint all over the hedgehogs.” A voice whom could be identified as Deuce says with a horrified tone.

“We? You mean you dropped the paint over the hedgehogs! Don’t put me together with you!” Another voice yells, which belongs to Ace.

They both continue to argue not knowing that their dorm leader could hear them from the lounge.

Riddle’s grip on his teacup began to tighten which if he were to grip it any longer, the cup might shatter.

“Those fools…” he starts; his face slowly getting angrier by the minute. “I’M GOING TO CHOP OFF THEIR HEADS IF IT IS THE LAST THING I DO!!!” Heartslabyul’s dorm leader roars.

Jiang Cheng rubs his forehead in irritation. So much for a calm evening.

Suddenly he had an epiphany.

He places his hand on Riddle’s shoulders before the senior could explode in anger.

“Calm down Riddle senpai.” Jiang Cheng says. Riddle senpai turns to him. His face is red with anger.

‘He looks like tomato…’ Jiang Cheng thinks. Best he keeps those thoughts to himself.

“Instead of just cutting their heads off. Why not make sure the punishment sticks? I’m pretty sure they have grown used to the head cutting.” This time Jiang Cheng flashes an evil smirk.

The red on Riddle’s face began to lessen as he looks at Jiang Cheng’s face. He raised his eyebrow as slowly sits back down; attention fully to Jiang Cheng. He seems interested. Jiang Cheng is a hard worker and a diligent student through all the times that Riddle has seen him. Despite the junior’s lack of magic when he first entered Night Raven College, he truly had proven himself as one of them, despite the trouble Ramshackle duo often get into. For that Riddle holds Jiang Cheng in high esteem.

“What do you have in mind, Jiang Cheng?” Riddle asks.

“I once studied at this place that has quite the absurd number of rules there. Although the rules of the Queen of Hearts is quite special. The rules there are even more absurd. There’s about 3000 rules as opposed to the 810 that you have. Some of them are even quite constricting.” Jiang Cheng says. Riddle looks shocked.

“3000!? Even the Queen does not make that many rules in fear of retaliation from her subjects!” Riddle exclaims.

“True.” Jiang Cheng shrugs. “But they have a certain punishment for rule breakers.” He leans forward towards Riddle, evil smirk still in place.

‘What a gremlin.’ Riddle thinks as he leans forward to meet his junior.

“They would make the rule breakers write all the rules. All 3000 of them.” He says conspiratly.

Riddle leans back and scoffs. “Writing? That’s all? Hardly enough to make them avoid trouble.”

“Well they had to copy the rules while doing handstands.” Jiang Cheng says.

“That way, they would more tired to do any rule breaking. But I don’t recommend it too often as they’ll get used but you get where I’m going with this.” He adds more.

Riddle goes into a thinking pose. Jiang Cheng was onto to something here. If Riddle plays his cards right and pieces into position…

Heh…hehehehehehehehe…Ahahahahahahahahahaha!!! His junior really helped him this time.

Riddle Rosehearts, dorm leader of Heartslabyul, founded by the severity of the Queen of Hearts, tips his crown to his gremlin of a junior. Now then. He stares out towards the direction where Adeuce had cause trouble. Apparently the duo are still bickering.

Hmph.

Very well. Let them have their way for today. For now he wants to spend time with Jiang Cheng and enjoy this wonderful herbal tea with him.

“Why don’t you tell me of your insidious plans-I mean…Your wonderful ideas, my dear kouhai? It appears this senpai might learn something new after all.” The red haired boy smirks at his junior.

Said junior also has the same expression as he looks at the wicked gleam in his senior’s eyes.

“Well…I have some that might be useful…”

The two prefects spent the whole evening plotting.

The whole Heartslabyul felt a cold shiver down their spine as though they know that something terrible is going to befall on them.

-The next day-

Jiang Cheng is relaxing at the Ramshackle lounge reading a text book on magical and mundane uses of herbs and plants. His right hand is busy scratching Grim’s head while the feline-like monster is busy reading another textbook on the history of magic that Professor Trein request the students read for their next class.

Suddenly the door to their dorm is flung wide open with a powerful slam. Grim jumped in surprise, his book dropped to the floor as he lands on top of Jiang Cheng’s head.

“Fuyaah!? W-what…w-who’s there!?” The monster stutters. Jiang Cheng however kept his eyes on his book and flip the next page uncaring.

In came Ace and Deuce looking dead to the world. Their bodies are shaking and they look absoleutly pale.

“Jiang Cheng…help us please…” Deuce begs. His voice weak from exhaustion. Fatigue clear to see on him.

“Damn that red tyrant…I thought having my head caught off was bad, he decided to be worse! This is tyranny! I won’t stand for this!” Ace yells. His body is shaking.

“Let me guess. He made the two of you to copy the entire rules of the Queen of Hearts. While doing handstands?” Jiang Cheng says nonchalantly. His eyes are still on his text book.

Ace and Deuce stare at Jiang Cheng in disbelief. How did he know!?

Ace’s eyes narrow. Wait…It couldn’t be…no way…

He points an accusing finger towards Jiang Cheng. “IT WAS YOU!?” He yells.

Deuce looks at Ace in shock. “What are you saying Ace!? Are you saying that…” The blue eyed boy now is catching up to his companion in suffering’s meaning. He looks at Jiang Cheng in betrayal.

“You…you were the one who influenced Riddle senpai with that punishment!?” He yells in disbelief.

Jiang Cheng puts his book down and stares at the duo.

“Well…I was just doing my part as a dutiful kouhai to help his senpai deal with such troublesome. Especially troublesome students with a penchant for pranks.” The curve of his lips began to widen as he stares at Ace.

Ace’s eyes twitch. “You…You petty bastard! Is this revenge for last week!?” He yells.

“Maybe…maybe not…” Jiang Cheng says playing innocent towards such accusation. It was neither a confirmation nor denial.

Deuce however looks sad. “Well that was Ace’s doing, but why me!?” He pouts at Jiang Cheng.

The Ramshackle dorm leader merely shrugs. “Collateral damage. I suppose.”

Deuce looked so betrayed by the statement.

Grim however was howling with laughter. “NYAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! SERVES YOU RIGHT FOR PLAYING THAT PRANK ON US, DUMMY ACE!” The cat monster is rolling on the floor, his paws holding his belly as tears began to fall from his eyes.

“Shut up you furball…” Ace mutters, completely humiliated. He drops his head down to the floor in defeat, no longer having the strength to argue with Jiang Cheng.

Taking pity on the sad sight, Jiang Cheng went over to both of them and carry them to the spare rooms of the dorm.

After putting both boys onto their respective beds, he told them both that he will inform Riddle of their whereabouts and that he would take care of them.

Honestly, these idiots…

But…

They are his idiots…and he would do everything for these precious idiots he calls friends.

Far distant in his memory, three boys in robes of black and red, green and purple robes slowly being replaced by an image of five people and small feline monster having the time of their lives.

A memory of man and woman that constantly bicker and argue, that always hurt his heart, replaced by a man with a bird-like mask who despite his flaws, is trying his best to be the father figure that boy needs. Another is a man with black and white hair wearing a fur coat who despite his stern scolding, would always tell the boy that he is proud of him.

A memory of a man, in robes of red and black, who left him alone to be with other people being replaced by a tall man with green eyes and black horns who is always there for him. His “Child of Man”, the green eyed man would lovingly call him and to the boy he would call him “Tsunotarou”, with equal measure as well.

Jiang Cheng stares at the mirror in his room again.

Ah…the memories of those days really are coming to haunt him isn’t it?

He feels alone…

So…so…alone…

“Everyone…will you ever find me? Can you come over to me…”

A deeper selfish wish that he kept locked deep in his heart, least that people in the cultivation world would discover such a weakness.

“Please take me home…”

Chapter Text

Three days ago Jiang Cheng had received a letter from his nephew. It was an invitation to go on a night hunt with him. It was also a way that nephew wants to spend time with his Jiujiu.

He’s touched that his nephew is still remembers him. After all, with Wei Wuxian’s return, it would not be a surprise that his nephew would follow someone more lively than his bitter uncle. Especially since he often spends most his time with the Lan juniors and the Ouyang heir.

But that’s good though, Jiang Cheng has accepted that he can’t be the one the stifle his nephew from making new friends. Those friends of his has nothing to do with him so he shouldn’t really care that much.

He sent a reply stating that he accepted the invitation and would be delighted to meet his nephew. He should really take this moment to get out more. Work is really starting to kill him.

He glances back at his deck where stacks of paper are beginning to pile up.

That brought him back to memory where he and Crowley were doing some late night paperworks.

-Flashback-

He had no doubt that Crowley was conning him again to help deal with the documents that the damn bird-mask man had procrastinated to finish. But it was fun helping his father sign all those papers.

“I don’t care what happens now, you damn shitty old crow. We are both going to finish this paperwork or die trying!” Jiang Cheng had said with a manic gleam in his eyes.

Crowley looked absolutely terrified.

“Please Jiang Cheng!” His father pleaded. “Have mercy on your father!!! Has this father not been ever kind and generous to you!?”

“Jiang Cheng pulled the headmaster by the scruff of his neck and dragged him to his desk before going to the other side; sat down and stared at his father before starting to look at the documents.

Knowing that escaping is futile, Dire Crowley started on signing the documents. He should’ve chunk the gremlin child to his friends when he had the chance but he was ever so generous to take time wanting to spend it with his child and now said child is pushing him to do this.

He subtly glance up to Jiang Cheng. His child is sorting through all the documents according from date to importance. His eyes are way too focused on the papers to look at his direction.

Such a hardworking child he has here…

Ah…Crowley wanted to have a better father-son bonding time with his sour little grape.

He refuse to lose to that Crewel who would often spoil the boy and Grim with fashionable clothes and having quality time between them. Crowley refuse this! He’ll show that he can be a better dad. But first he really have to finish all these paperwork that he had been procrastinating- he means holding off for the right time.

“Father, here’s the important documents you can take a look.” His serious son said as he passed the stack of papers to him. Crowley looked through all the documents and is impressed. His son truly is the best! He pats and ruffles Jiang Cheng’s head with a genuine happy smile.

“Good job my boy! This makes my work so much easier. Thank you son.” He says earnestly.

He did not miss the subtle look of surprise and happiness from Jiang Cheng’s face from being praised. His face then turns back to the frown look that he knows. “Thank you father, it was nothing.” Jiang Cheng tries to push it aside.

Deciding to say nothing, Crowley turned back to his work while Jiang Cheng does the same; both people enjoying the comfortable silence.

Divus Crewel knocked the office of Headmaster Crowley for some late turn in reports. It was his turn on the overtime shift and boy does he really not like them.

“Headmaster.” Divus knocks on the door. “Here are the reports for this year’s budget for the alchemy tools and ingredients.”

Silence. He knocks again.

“Headmaster? You there?”

Another moment of silence. Oh that shitty bird better not bail on him this time!

He opens the door without ceremony.

“Hey you shitty old crow! What’s the-“

Anything that Divus wanted to say died on his lips as he takes in the scene before him.

There is Crowley slumped back on his chair; looking like a zombie. There is also his son, Jiang Cheng slumped forward on the desk, non-moving at all.

“Crewel…help us please…” Crowley begs.

“What the hell happened here?” Divus asked, still trying to process the scene.

“Finished all the paperwork! At the cost of our souls and sanity!” Crowley chirps like the demented man he is.

He looks at Jiang Cheng and narrows his eyes at Crowley. Sensing a lecture in his way, the headmaster quickly explains least he gets whipped by the potions teacher.

“Tch. Idiots the both of you.” Divus merely says as he goes over to carry his silly son back to Ramshackle dorm. He picks up his son in a bridal manner before moving away from the scene.

“Father…is…proud…of me…hehehehehehe…I like to make Father…” his sleeping son mumbles. Crowley and Divus who heard this, turned soft at those words.

Crowley takes off his mask and gently pressed a kiss on Jiang Cheng’s forehead.

“Father is proud of you too, my Little Lotus. Father will always be proud of you.” Crowley whispers gently.

Divus turns to Crowley. “We’ll be going out to have lunch tomorrow. If you are free, you’re welcome to join us.”

Crowley nods his head. “I should be free. I mean all this month’s paperwork is already settled thanks to this little one here. I can join you guys.”

Divus nods his head and heads off.

The next day, Grim, Jiang Cheng along with his two dads were enjoying a nice picnic at the Shaflands; enjoying each other’s company.

-Flashback ends-

Jiang Cheng heads towards the night hunt location that Jin Ling had instructed for them to meet.

According to his nephew, there have been a natural landslide that occurred a few days ago which had disrupted a huge graveyard in the area. Due to the disruption of their graves, corpses are reported to have been rising from their graves.

Jiang Cheng is having suspicions regarding this. One thing, his nephew invited only him alone to this night hunt. But two cultivators no matter their strengths, this won’t be a wise choice to make. He supposes that his nephew would bring his own Jin contingent to this hunt.

“Jiujiu!” His nephew’s voice brings him out from his musings. He turns and see both his nephew and his spirit dog, Fairy coming to his direction.

His nephew has really grown to be quite the young man. The little brat who once likes to cling to his Jiujiu is now a foot taller than him. And his is still growing!? Dear Seven, what did those peacocks there are feeding him!? Although he supposes that he too is too blame.

Don’t blame him! It’s not his fault that his nephew looks so adorable eating all the meals that he cooks for him. He’s like a little hamster with those chubby that Jiang Cheng had to restrain himself; least he pinches them until until his nephew cutely cries in outrage.

Focus Jiang Cheng. Focus. You’re really slipping into memory lane a lot lately.

“Jiujiu! Are you even listening to me!?” Jin Ling calls out. He is now pouting because his Jiujiu is not listening to him.

“I’m listening you brat.” Jiang Cheng says as he keeps his cool composure.

Said nephew merely rolls at his eyes and drags him towards the night hunt location. Both uncle and nephew were talking, well complaining in Jin Ling’s case, about their sects and how well the other is doing.

In Jin Ling’s case, he’s trying to find a way on what is going with Jiujiu lately. If he pushes more, it will only serve to make Jiujiu to clamp up harder despite the fact that Jin Ling is his nephew.

As the reach the hunting area, they both hear a familiar laughter in the air.

Jin Ling freezes and glances at his Jiujiu’s direction. Of all the fucking days those idiotic couple choose to appear, they had to appear now!

Jiang Cheng however felt…nothing. Only the slight annoyance that the “ever esteemed and righteous” Yiling Patriarch and Hanguang-jun dare make their annoying presence known to him. Besides, the past is in the past. He had learn to let it go anyways.

There they are. The clowns of tonight’s shitshow.

The Jiang sect leader wills himself to ignore their presence.
He sees the two clowns, the pet corpse and the two lan juniors making their appearance. One of the two Lans accompanying them saw Jin Ling and calls out for his attention.

“Hey there Young Mistress and…Sect leader Jiang…” calls out Lan Jingyi which became lower when he saw that the Young Mistress’s uncle is here with them.

Wei Wuxian who is next to Lan Wangji flinches at the sight of his former shidi. Seeing Wei Wuxian’s flich cause Lan Wangji to pull his husband behind and glare at the Jiang sect leader for daring to ruin their night hunt.

Jiang Cheng does what he does best. Ignore them while letting Jin Ling do the talking. Which is fine because he has nothing to say to them.

“Hey there Jiang Cheng…” Wei Wuxian calls out awkwardly.

Jiang Cheng doesn’t bother to look at his direction.

This however, enrages Lan Wangji. “Do not be rude, Jiang Wanyin.” He says.

Jiang Cheng tunes him out and walks away. Jin Ling stares at his jiujiu before looking back at the group. His Jiujiu is now becoming much colder than he was previously. Normally he would return a snap at people who annoy him, now he acts as if everyone is beneath him.

His Jiujiu moves with a grace that he never expect to see before. Jin Ling follows his Jiujiu to keep an even closer eye on him.

He suppose that he couldn’t avoid this moment all the time, there were bound to be days where Jiang Cheng will encounter those three. But in all honesty, he rather ignore them even if Wei Wuxian has a habit of riling people up to pay attention to him.

Pah! What does he care. That fool can hog all the attention he wants as long as it is far from Jiang Cheng’s area.

Unfortunately the clowns decided to follow them with the main clown trying to get his attention as well as being a fool in this night hunt by making stupid jokes and not taking it seriously.

Jin Ling mocks Wei Wuxian of his lack of seriousness which the other arrogantly replies that he’s the Yiling Patriarch, nothing will surprise him. He continues to ignore the couple, uncaring of the former shixiong who is wilting from being ignored and the glares of his two white robed ass kissers.

……

Fucking jinx. Wei Wuxian you fucking jinx!

That fool of a patriarch had to open his big ass mouth! From what was supposed to be clearing the area of corpses now has become a fight for survival.

Apparently the reason for the landslide that cause the disruption of the graves Is because a demonic cultivator is busy building an army of the dead to establish supremacy…or something like that.

Oh look at that, the Great Wei Wuxian is injured. The other demonic cultivator managed to get the drop on him with even superior flute skills. Must really hurt the ego there. His stone faced husband is now trying to protect him from the demonic cultivator while ignoring the fact that he too is injured.

The Wen corpse is busy protecting the Lan juniors, those three suffering heavy injuries as well.

He looks at Jin Ling next to him. Crap, this is a real shitshow they are in right now.

What can he do…?

Damn it! He can’t accept this!

WHAT CAN HE DO!?

‘Call my name,O Child of Man and I will find you wherever you are.’ A voice from a memory whispers at the back of his mind.

Could it work?

Can it work?

It’s been five years since that day.

Jiang Cheng looks back at his nephew. The light in his life.

The demonic cultivator laughs in triumph.

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Finally the great Sandu Sengshou will fall by my hands!” The craze look in his eyes widen even more as he gloats.

“Save me…” Jiang Cheng murmurs.

Everyone stills from Jiang Cheng words.

Even the demonic cultivator himself is quiet. Then he grins as he had finally made the bane of all demonic cultivators beg for mercy. This is the man everyone fears!?

“Begging for mercy, Sandu Sengshou? I didn’t realise that you would be this cowardly.” The demonic cultivator taunts again.

Jin Ling, Wei Wuxian, Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi and Wen Ning looks at him with shock.

Lan Wangji is openly glaring at him. “Coward.” He says.

Wasting no time, the demonic cultivator commands the fierce corpses to kill them all. The corpses rush towards the injured group of cultivators.

Jiang Cheng however stood and stare down at the demonic cultivator and screamed.

“Save me, Malleus! Tsunotarou!”

The undead horde are closing in on Jiang Cheng. Everyone behind him is yelling his name to get away.

Before any of the corpses could touch him, the clouds darken and flashed a bright green as bolts of emerald lightning struck down all the corpses nearing Jiang Cheng.

Then came a circle of blue fire as it creates a protective barrier between the cultivators and the undead army.

Everyone other than Jiang Cheng looks around in surprise.

Then they felt an immense aura of something very powerful approaching them. The other turned behind and saw a tall male with pale black hair and glowing green eyes. What is more surprising is that there a pair of large black horns on his head. He wears a black and green uniform and a black cape. He carriers with him a black staff with what looks like to be a spinning on top of it. Whoever this figure is, the others can see that he is dangerous and powerful.

“Nyahahahahaha! Taste the power of the Great Grim!” A voice that belongs to a grey furred feline like creature with blue eyes and a equally blue flaming ears resting on top of the horned man’s shoulder. There is a black and white striped bow tied around its neck which bears a purple crystal that rests against the feline’s chest. The feline’s pitchfork-like tail twirls with glee as its eyes landed on Jiang Cheng.

“Minion!” The cat monster calls. “Minion!” The monster jumps from the horned man’s shoulder with astounding agility and pounces towards Jiang Cheng.

Everyone tried again to warn Jiang Cheng but Jiang Cheng opens his arm to receive the pouncing cat monster.

“Grim!” Jiang Cheng yells.

“Jiang Cheng!” The monster named Grim cries. Tears appear to fall from his face.

Both of them are locked in a tight embrace. Jiang Cheng had tears in his own eyes as he couldn’t believe that his dearest friend is here.

The horned man walks towards the hugging duo. He places his hand on top of Jiang Cheng’s hair as a gentle smile appears on his face.

“We’ve finally found you, Child of Man. We’ve finally found you.” Malleus Draconia says.

Chapter Text

“Minion! How dare you leave the Great Grim! Didn’t you promised not to leave me…?” Grim cries in Jiang Cheng’s embrace. The cat monster cries as he nuzzles deeper into Jiang Cheng’s neck. He returns the hug with the same fervency.

Jiang Cheng couldn’t believe it. He stood in shock and did not move as if afraid that it might be a dream. But Grim’s soft fur nuzzling at his neck is as he had remembered it to be.

His partner is here! His beloved Grim is here! Grim! Grim! Grim! There are tears threatening to fall over from his eyes.

The gentle caressing hand on top of his head brings him to a slow realisation. He looks up and stares into the ever otherworldly green eyes of Malleus Draconia, his Tsunotarou. Even as tall as he is now, his Tsunotarou is still taller than him. Malleus’s eyes are now staring at him like nothing matters now in the world now that the two of them are here at this moment.

“Tsunotarou…I…I…” Jiang Cheng stutters. He’s still couldn’t believe it. He frees one hand from hugging Grim to grab Malleus’s hand that is on top of his head.

“It’s okay, Jiang Cheng. You don’t have to say anything.” Malleus takes Jiang Cheng’s hand and brings it to his lips. “My Child of Man, can you ever forgive me for taking this long to find you? Ever since that day…I regret so deeply that I…that all of us failed to reach you in your hour need. Can you forgive me for my weakness to being unable to help you?” Malleus looks so regretful and sad that it hurts Jiang Cheng’s heart.

Jiang Cheng gently pulls his hand free from Malleus’s and touch the latter’s cheek. His lips curls into a smile. “Silly Tsunotarou. I never blamed you or any of you for that day.” He says. “I guess it was merely my time to wake up from the dream and to face reality.”

Malleus and Grim look so stricken by his admission.

“Jiang Cheng…” Grim murmurs. Suddenly the cat’s face contorts to anger as he now smacks his paws at Jiang Cheng’s face in anger. “Stupid!” He smacks. “Stupid!” He smacks again. “Stupid human! Didn’t you say that we were going to be together!? Didn’t you say that we were going to be great wizards together!?” The anger turns to tears as Grim stops his assault and cries into Jiang Cheng’s neck.

Hearing Grim saying that reminded the sect leader of that day during the Guanyin Temple incident, where he had said those kind of words towards Wei Wuxian.

Speaking of Wei Wuxian, he turns his head towards the Lan group. All of them have looks of confusion on their faces as if they want to ask more questions. But then again…unlike Wei Wuxian, he keeps his promises. He has come to terms of letting go of the past and all that it pertains. But with his friends at Night Raven College, he finds that letting go off his past with them to be something far more difficult to do than that with Wei Wuxian.

His past with Wei Wuxian is riddled with lies and broken promises. His past with Night Raven is that of building respect and equal friendships.

He looks down at the crying Grim. He kisses the head of the crying cat while murmuring words of apology. “I’m so sorry, Grim. I’m so sorry.” He presses more kisses as he tries to console his precious Grim. “Yeah you better be sorry Minion!” Grim says as he slowly brings himself out from his crying.

“You owe me so many things! You have to give me ten…no. A thousand cans of tuna to make up for me!!!” His bratty partner yells in mock anger. Gosh he can’t believe that his partner is such a brat. Grim would give Jin Ling a run for his money on who could be the brattiest.

“Jiujiu. Who are those people?” Jin Ling asks. He slowly made his way towards his Jiujiu, taking careful steps as the strange horned man and the grey feline yao are staring at him.

“Jiujiu? You’re an uncle!?” The cat asks. He laughs loudly as if Jiang Cheng being an uncle is a funny thing to him. “NYAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! You’re an old man Minion!!! NYAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!” The horned man merely stares down at Jin Ling with a curious gaze before nodding his head in greeting.

“Greetings my Child of Man’s nephew. May I have your name?” Malleus says in a polite voice.

“My name is-“ before Jin Ling could say anything, Jiang Cheng already cut him off.

“I can tell you his name, Tsunotarou. His name is Jin Rulan, birth name Jin Ling.” Jiang Cheng answer with his eyes narrowed at Malleus. “Don’t think I don’t know what you are doing. That fae bull crap won’t work with me. I’ve seen enough of the tricks that the fae can do and I rather you don’t pull those tricks on my nephew. He’s very precious to me.”

Malleus gave Jiang Cheng a teasing smile. “I merely wanted to test something and I see the results. Forgive me Child of Man for my teasing.” He press a kiss on top of Jiang Cheng’s head.

“What the hell!?” Jin Ling’s eyes went wide with shock. It seems the others are just as shocked.

Jiang Cheng pouts. He leans into the tall fae’s chest. “We really need to work on your social cues, you silly fae.”

“That guy just kiss Sandu Sengshou and he likes it!?” Lan Jingyi loudly whispers.

The atmosphere between Jiang Cheng and Malleus popped like a bubble as they realise that they have company. Jin Ling is still staring in shock.

Oh right.

Jiang Cheng clears his throat. “This here is Malleus Draconia, a schoolmate of mine and a senpai. He is a very dear friend of mine.” With that Jiang Cheng smiles brightly at Malleus.

To the Lan group, they had never seen Sandu Sengshou smile like that. It was full of happiness without any restraint, like he was very glad to see that person. Wei Wuxian felt something heavy in his stomach as he sees the smile on Jiang Cheng’s face towards this…this stranger. He doesn’t like this horned demon who is making Jiang Cheng smile.

“Hey don’t forget about me Minion!” Grimm yells from Jiang Cheng’s embrace. The cat has made himself comfortable in Jiang Cheng’s arms. Jiang Cheng looks down at Grim and gives an amused huff.

“Right. This here is-“ “I am the Great Grim! The greatest wizard the world will ever see! Nyahahahahahahaha!!!” Grim introduces himself with great pride. “This is here is my human! Together, we are invisible! He feeds me, keeps me warm and is the bestest servant to ever serve this Great Grim!”

“Servant?” Jin Ling dumbly says.

“But the best of all, he’s my greatest friend and partner! Together we are the Twin Prides of Ramshackle!” Grimm ends with a smug smile.

The cat monster called him and Jiujiu as the Twin Prides…

Jin Ling, Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi glance at Wei Wuxian. If hearing about Malleus’s relationship with Jiang Cheng made his stomach drop, hearing that Grim and Jiang Cheng are called the Twin Prides shattered Wei Wuxian’s heart. That can’t be right? Jiang Cheng couldn’t possibly have replaced him with a cat of all things!? Did he really hate him that much that he would make the Twin Prides with someone one else? The Twin Prides were their thing!

Seeing his husband’s hurt expression made Lan Wangji hate Jiang Wanyin even more. How many times must this cruel, heartless man hurt his husband. Just who does he think he is to go around hurting people!? As much as he wants to run Jiang Wanyin through with Bichen, the person next to him is excluding a faint but powerful aura. For now he will stay his hand but he swears…he swears that one day Jiang Wanyin will get his comeuppance.

“Ah. I almost forgot.” Malleus says, bringing Jiang Cheng’s attention back to him. He slams his staff to the ground and a ball of green fire shoots up into the sky. “Grim and I did not come alone.”

A few moments later there are a number of figures in the sky that is heading towards their direction. As the figures come closer, it shows a number of people. Male, young in appearance with different types of clothing. Jin Ling squints his eyes to get a better view and has a surprised look on his face.

These people are flying on broomsticks! What in the world!?

The first three figures approach them first.

“LORD MALLEUS!!!” A youth with light green hair in the same black and green uniform as Malleus with different designs yelled out. “Lord Malleus! We were looking for you!” The green haired man loudly says as he lands.

“Please be quiet Sebek…” a silver haired man with same uniform as the one called Sebek lands next to him. “Lord Malleus.” The silver haired man greets Malleus. He stares at Jiang Cheng as it took him a second before his eyes widen in realisation of the person standing next to Lord Malleus.

“Jiang Cheng…” the silver haired man says in shock.

Sebek stops and stares at his companion. “What did you say Silver? Jiang Cheng!? Where is he!?” He asks as he looks around to find Jiang Cheng.

Silver points at the direction with finger, giving his junior the most deadpanned eyes he could muster. “Over there Sebek, the one next to Lord Malleus and with Grim in his arms.”

Sebek looks properly at where Silver is pointing. True enough, that is Jiang Cheng standing there next to Lord Malleus.

“Jiang Cheng! Human!” Sebek yells as he dashes at the human. Arms wide open.

Grim seeing Sebek’s fast approaching, screeches, hurriedly climbs up to Jiang Cheng’s shoulders as Sebek wraps his arms around Jiang Cheng’s waist and hoists the latter up the air.

“Human! I missed you very much Human!” Sebek yells as he swings Jiang Cheng around. There are small droplets of tears from his eyes as he keeps yelling Jiang Cheng’s name.

“It’s.” *swings* “good.” *swings* “to.” *swings* “see.” *swings* “you.” *swings* “again.” *swings* “Sebek.” *swings* Jiang Cheng greets in between swings. Grim however is screaming for help from the swinging as well as cursing Sebek’s enthusiasm.

Malleus’s eyes narrows and clears his throat. “Sebek. I believe that’s enough.” He commands.

Sebek, realising that he is within the presence of his lord, stills and puts Jiang Cheng down. He bows quickly in respect. “Forgive me Lord Malleus! I acted gracelessly in front of your very presence. I submit myself to your punishment!” Sebek says loudly.

“Fufufufufu…as expected as Sebek. Always passionate~” said a voice behind Wei Wuxian. Both Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji turned around with the latter swinging his sword but it only hits the air.

“My…my…” the voice appears; now behind Jiang Cheng as two small arms wrapped themselves at Jiang Cheng’s chest. “How easily startled, those two are. With one of them swinging a sword right at me~.”

Jiang Cheng turns his and smiles. “Lilia…you’re looking well.”

Lilia Vanrouge presses his cheek to the other man’s cheek, rubbing them together in affection. “I’m always well and healthy, my boy. What of you? How have you been?”

Gentle lilac eyes stare at the mischievous scarlet eyes. There seems to be a connection between the two that not many are privy to. Lilia hums for a brief moment before smiling cheerfully. He kisses Jiang Cheng’s cheeks. “Whatever it is, I miss you dearly my boy.”

Then the other figures land and Jiang Cheng’s hearts is beating like crazy and it’s not the nerves.

It is happiness and excitement.

“JIANG CHENG!” Everyone from Night Raven calls out.

Chapter Text

“Jiang Cheng!” Everyone from Night Raven College calls out.

Ace, Deuce, Jack, Epel, Ortho, Riddle, Trey, Carter, Leona, Ruggie, Azul, Jade, Floyd, Kalim, Jamil, Vil, Rook and Idia are here!

Jiang Cheng runs towards his friends with tears in his eyes.

The first years were the run towards their long lost friend. Jiang Cheng’s arm are wide open as he receives the assault of hugs from his friends.

“Jiang Cheng! We miss you man!” Ace yells as he tightens his hold.

“Yeah! We miss you very much.” Deuce agrees as he tries not to cry.

“It’s good to see you.” Jack greets.

“Jiang Cheng! We’re finally here!” Ortho happily says.

“Holy fuck you’re tall! What the hell you bitch!? Whatever happened to the short people solidarity!?” Epel exclaims as he now realises the difference in height between the two of them.

Everyone lets go of Jiang Cheng and realise that Jiang Cheng had grown tall.

‘Fuck…’ Was the thought in the first year group.

A hand appears out of nowhere and smacks hard on the lavender-haired boy’s head.

Epel yelps in pain from the smack.

“Where are your manners, Baby Potato? Don’t embarrass our house by acting like a hooligan.” Vil says as he looks at Jiang Cheng.

‘How interesting…’ Vil thinks.

The Little Potato before him is no longer a potato but a beautiful and deadly Monkshood. The ugly rage within the boy is no longer there from last Vil had seen him.

However, the boy is now a man, tall and proud before the Pomefiore dorm leader. The rage that was once akin to an ugly weed is now something like a magnificent thunderstorm. If Vil were to be honest with himself, it reminds him of the time that Malleus had caused a thunderstorm when the Diasomnia dorm leader had lost his temper, with only Jiang Cheng himself able to calm him down.

“You’ve become more beautiful, Little Potato. No…you’re no longer a potato.” Vil says as he cups Jiang Cheng’s cheek.

Jiang Cheng leans into the blonde senior’s hand. “I’ll always be a potato compared to you, Senior Vil.” He smiles.

That brought a soft chuckle to the blonde. This cheeky Potato.

“Hey. I don’t mean to ruin the vibe here, Kitten but I think we are in a serious situation.” The lazy voice from Leona pulls Jiang Cheng and the other cultivators to their current situation.

Ah right. The demonic cultivator and the army of fierce corpses. Right…totally slipped from Jiang Cheng’s mind. He looks at his NRC friends. It seems they too are now made aware of this situation.

“Those stinky zombies are trying to break through my barrier Nya!” Grim yells from Jiang Cheng’s shoulder.

That got everyone’s attention.

Grim is right. Jiang Cheng almost forgot that they were dealing with a demonic cultivator.

Said demonic cultivator is giving his all in destroying Grim’s barrier, either by blasting bolts of resentful energy or having his undead minions slamming onto the blue barrier. So far there are no success but Jiang Cheng supposes that they can’t have that.

“Ne…Shrimpy~ you’re thinking of doing something bad aren’t ya~?” Floyd appears and casually wraps his arms his favourite Shrimpy. The times without Shrimpy had boring in Floyd’s life. To him, Shrimpy is an interesting person, but only a select few would ever get to see it, which Floyd is ever glad that he is one of those few. Even on days that Floyd’s mood would turn sour, Jiang Cheng’s presence alone could make it bearable and even Jade and Azul could see that he has a way of grounding Floyd so that he doesn’t get into too trouble.

“This demonic cultivator is causing too much trouble, Floyd. He disrupted the graves of the dead in order to make an army of corpses to kill us. I guess me in particular.” Jiang Cheng explains.

“Because you are Sandu Sengshou, the hunter of demonic cultivators? Well…this is certainly an interesting situation.” Lilia says as the fae senior is now scanning the battlefield. Already some of the Night Ravens seniors are now assessing their situation and preparing strategies for a counterattack.

“Are we dealing with another Overblot or are we dealing with a dark wizard?” Ace asks. He’s twirling his magical pen as both he and Deuce get into position.

“I suppose a dark wizard is closer term to what we have.” Jiang Cheng replies. He turns to his friends. “I just want everyone to know that this is a matter of life or death. This demonic cultivator will be aiming to kill us, so be on your guard.”

“That is true, my precious son.” A new voice comes.

Dire Crowley and the other Night Raven staff had made their appearance.

“As your kind and generous Headmaster, you are given permission to use your high level spells for self-defence. Use your Unique Magic if you must. If you are locked in a battle against a foe who wishes to kill you, end their life first.” The raven masked mage says.

The students nod their heads in understanding.

“What is it that we need to do Jiang Cheng?” Riddle as the Heartslabyul members ready themselves, magical pens at the ready.

“I need Heartslabyul, Octavinelle, Scarabia, Pomefiore and Ignihyde to form a defensive circle around the injured.” The Jiang sect leader points at the Lan group and his nephew. “Savanaclaw and Diasomia will be on the offense. However, the first years are to remain with defending group.”

“What!? That’s not fair man!” Ace yells. The other first join in on the protest.

“I need you guys to protect my nephew. Please…I trust you to protect him.” Their friend gently says as he looks over at Jin Ling.

Ace, Deuce, Jack, Epel, Ortho and Sebek glance over at Jin Ling. The yellow robed boy kinda looks like a younger Jiang Cheng that if Jiang Cheng hadn’t said anything, they would assume he was Jiang Cheng’s younger brother.

“Ah…you’re leaving us to babysitting duty…” Ace grumbles. “Fine…but you owe me for this you know? Ace’s babysitting duties don’t come cheap after all.” The ginger grins.

“True…true…here I am getting excited to fight some zombies only to put on the bench. I’m with Ace on this one.” Deuce adds.

“Tch…you really need to compensate us for this.” Jack grumbles as he goes over to guard Jin Ling.

“Look at him. Tall, muscular and already commanding us little people to do his commands. So unfair right Ortho?“ Epel that little shit cries his crocodile tears.

Ortho’s face falls with fake sadness. “True…true…Jiang Cheng really has changed. Woe to us little people. He only plays for the big boys team.” The blue flaming haired A.I dramatically woes.

“Honestly, I don’t mind helping Human, but I feel a bit disheartened.” Sebek adds.

Jin Ling glares at the first years. How dare they make light of this situation and making demands out of Jiujiu when lives are at stack. Look at Jiujiu, he’s so not impressed by what these idiots are saying.

“What a shame. Here I thought I would that if we survive this, I would treat my dear beloved friends to some Lotus Rib Soup. But alas. It seems like doom is coming to us all.” Jiang Cheng turns with disappointed sigh. “Better yet, I thought I would cook said soup by hand to show how much I appreciate my friends but such a pity.”

Everyone from Night Raven stood still as Jiang Cheng said those words. There is a hungry gleam in their eyes that is very unnerving to Jin Ling and the Lan group. Very unnerving.

“Soup you say?” Deuce says in a quiet mumble.

Ace and Epel however gave Jiang Cheng their biggest shit eating grin.

“Well why didn’t ya say so earlier ya bitch?” Epel says happily.

“If you started with soup we could have finished this earlier.” Ace continues as he now slings an arm around Jin Ling and acting as if their best buddies.

“What are you-?” Jin Ling startlingly questions Ace.

“Don’t worry Jiang Cheng’s nephew. We’re gonna make sure no bad zombies are gonna harm a single hair on you.” Ace explains with a big grin.

“Yeah I’m all pumped up now. Bring it on you walking corpses!” Deuce fists his hands as he looks more excited.

Vil shakes his head at the juniors. “Idiots. Idiots the lot of them.” He mutters in disappointment.

“Shi shi shi…it seems that we really have to take this seriously eh Leona?” Ruggie chuckles.

Leona gives a small smirk. “Apparently so.”

“Ne ne…you’re gonna make me that tasty soup right Jiang Cheng? I really like that soup!” Grim exclaims in excitement from Jiang Cheng’s shoulder. Jiang Cheng pets his partner’s head with gentleness. “Of course I will. Anything for my sweet baby boy.” Jiang Cheng coos.

Sandu Sengshou turns towards the cracking barrier. Any moment now an undead army will burst through, but that stupid demonic cultivator is gonna get a nice welcome from the wizards of Night Raven College.

“Alright everyone. Let’s show this demonic cultivator a proper Night Raven welcome shall we?” Jiang Cheng says as everyone gives out a pure villainous smile.

The barrier breaks as the fierce corpses come in.

The villains of Night Raven College are more than ready.

That demonic cultivator won’t know what hit him.

Chapter Text

“Finally this barrier breaks! You won’t escape your fate Sandu Sengshou!” The demonic cultivator yells before seeing the presence of the NRC students.

“What the…” the demonic cultivator mutters before pulling himself back. It doesn’t matter. He has the numbers by his side and has dreamt for this moment!

He will finally kill Sandu Sengshou, Hanguang-jun and the Yiling Patriarch and prove himself the superior Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation!

“This guy is really pathetic. How troublesome…” Leona drawls in a bored voice. The presence of the corpses are the only challenging thing here. The one controlling them however, is a weak prey pretending to be a predator. Although he has his tricks but in the end, the victors here will be them. Jiang Cheng stood between him and Malleus who are standing their ground against the incoming tides of raging undead.

“I agree, normally controlling this much corpses would take a heavy toll on the caster, but that guy seems just fine. I suspect there’s another reason why he’s able to control that many corpses.” Jiang Cheng states as he turns to Idia and Ortho.

Both of the Shroud brothers noticed the sect leader’s gaze and turn to him. “Is there something you need, Jiang Cheng?” Idia asks. Jiang Cheng nods his head. “I need a wide scan of the environment we are in. I want to know if there is another source of power that this guy is using.”

Idia turns to his younger brother. “Ortho, turn on your magical scanners and go wide.” Ortho cheerfully nods and turns on the scanners and observes. Ortho’s yellow eyes seem to glow as the Magi Scanners do their work.

“Magi Scanner activate. 100ft, no results. 200ft, no results. 300ft, no results. 400ft, no results. 500ft, no results. 600ft, abnormalities detected. There are four anchors placed in four cardinal directions. Source of power seem dark and malicious. Transferring all date to you, Big Brother.” His eyes dim as he completes his findings. Soon, a holographic screen appears in front of Idia.

“The dark wizard is drawing his power from those anchors. It’s regulating the use of his powers, allowing him to properly control all the zombies. Destroying those anchors will weaken his control over them.” Idia explains. “If you want a powerful backlash, all of the anchors need to be destroyed simultaneously. The energy will return tenfold to the caster.” He adds a little bit more.

Jiang Cheng nods his head. A change of tactics it is then. Oh well.

“Malleus, when you’re ready.” Is all that the purple robed sect leader says as the zombies are very much close to them.

With one graceful slam from the Diasomnia dorm leader’s staff, a wide wave of greenish energy pushes the corpses away about ten to twenty feet away from them. Jiang Cheng and the other seniors took this opportunity.

“Let’s go everyone! Split into four teams and take down those anchors! Idia! Send us the coordinates for those anchors!” Jiang Cheng orders. A quick spilt of teams where someone gets a blue screen of the coordinates of the anchor are made.

“Ace. Deuce. Jack. Epel. Ortho. Sebek. Seems like you’re getting your wish after all.”

The six first years look at their friend in confusion. Wish? What wish?

Jiang Cheng turns to them with a shit eating grin.

No…no way…THAT FUCKER!!!

“You…you mad bitch!” Epel yells in indignation.

“Have fun fighting these zombies you fuckers!“ Jiang Cheng cackles as he and Malleus, Grim, Leona and Dire Crowley made their way northwards to deal with one of the anchors there.

The other seniors and staffs also took the opportunity to move, leaving only the firsts years to protect Jin Ling and the Lan group.

The demonic cultivator yelled in fury as he gave chase after the fleeing Sandu Sengshou, not before giving a command to the other corpses.

“Kill the others.” He commands them and the corpses march towards the NRC first years and the other cultivators.

“That whore!” Ace yells. “That absolute whore! How could he do this to us!” The ginger head proceeds to send out a bolt of lightning which burns one of the corpses to ashes.

Deuce sighs with acceptance. Jack does the same. They forgot that Jiang Cheng has the same kind of menace as them in their friend group. He wasn’t called the “Demon King of NRC” for nothing.

“You can take the demon king out of NRC but you can’t take the demon king out of the man.” Deuce says. He coats his right fist with fire magic as he punches an approaching corpse down. “But it’s good to see him again. Though…he looks taller now isn’t he?”

“I’ll say. And sharper features too. Those cheekbones could cut someone I swear.” Epel responded after him. “I guess the baby-faced trio is down to two members.”

Those strange people were casually talking amongst themselves as they skilfully blast any of the corpses that come their way that it made Jin Ling’s head hurt. These were Jiujiu’s friends? Who are these people!? And from the way that they spoke of Jiujiu, they made it seem like he’s a delinquent or something. But the way they are talking about his Jiujiu as if he’s close to them makes Jin Ling a bit happy.

No one in the cultivation world would ever give their time of day to befriend Jiujiu due to their assumptions of the Jiang sect leader’s unsociable behaviour.

Too angry, they whispered. Too rude. Too prideful. Too moody. Always disagreeable. No love in his heart (as a certain someone had once said which Jin Ling accidentally overheard them talking about Jiujiu. The only reason he has not put another sword into that person is because he has no proper political backing and he cares for his friends although, he’s beginning to have some doubts now.)

It hurts Jin Ling that is what people thought of his Jiujiu.

‘That’s impossible. Jiujiu couldn’t possibly be someone like that.’ Jin Ling thought.

Jiujiu is very organised, gentle, kind, warm, a bit sarcastic if you could read him but all and all, very loving. But Jiujiu is also prone to loneliness and self-doubts that would eat him for long periods of time.

Thus, Jin Ling swore that he will always be there for him just like his Jiujiu had done for him.

But these people. Jiujiu looked overjoyed at their presence. He looked twice as happier than Jin Ling had ever seen before in his life. Perhaps…perhaps they can help Jiujiu!

“Excuse me.” Jin Ling called out. One of the peculiar people turns to him, a tall dark skinned wolf demon or man? Jin Ling isn’t sure.

“Yes? You need something?” Jack asks as he turns to Jin Ling. He whipped his hand to casually shoot out a fireball to a running fierce corpse without even looking. Jin Ling would say in his heart that he is impressed by such a display.

“Ermm…I don’t really know how to say this…” Jin Ling starts. “My name is Jin Ling and I’m Jiujiu’s nephew? You are Jiujiu’s friends?” He wanted to ask more but with the current situation, he suppose this all he could ask.

“We are his best friends and classmates.” Ace replied as he ducked from a claw swipe before bursting out a strong gale to blow the fierce corpse away. “In fact, I was his first friend of course!” The ginger haired smugly says.

Deuce scoffs at Ace. “If I recall, you were an ass towards him. Making fun of him and all.” The other sputters in shock. “But we made up in the end of course! So we became friends!”

“Don’t listen to that lying ginger. If anything, I’m the first friend.” Deuce tells Jin Ling. Ace throws a fireball that nearly hits Deuce. The blue haired guy ducks at the last minute as the ball of flame hits another corpse. “Oi watch it clumsy!” He yells.

Ace pokes his tongue out in mockery.

“Oh right…we haven’t introduced ourselves did we? I’m Ace Trappola.” The ginger haired male says.

“Deuce Spade.” Says the blue haired male.

The wolf-like guy smacks one corpse down. “My name is Jack Howl.”

“I’m Epel Felmier. A pleasure to meet you.” Says the petite lilac haired boy with a kind expression that quickly turns into a more violent one as he whacks a corpse near him by the knees and blasts it away with a powerful gust of wind. “Eat shit, fuckface.” He mutters.

“Greetings. My name is Ortho Shroud. A pleasure to meet your acquaintance, Jin Rulan, nephew of Jiang Cheng.” Says the weird looking boy with flaming blue hair? Or is his head on fire!? Jin Ling doesn’t think asking now is important.

“Nephew of Jiang Wanyin, I am Sebek Zigvolt, servant of the great young master Malleus Draconia and close friend of your Jiujiu! It is great honour to meet you!” Says the green haired male who is quite loud and formal.

Well…Jin Ling suppose it’s nice to meet them as well? (Jiujiu, you have a lot to answer for. How dare you keep such secrets from A-Ling! How is A-Ling suppose to greet your friends!? They look younger or are they the same age as Jiujiu!? JIUJIU!!!!!!)

Said Jiujiu sneezes suddenly as he dashes to their target location.

“Are you alright, Child of Man?” Malleus asks in worry.

Jiang Cheng merely waves off the concern. “I’m fine Tsunotarou really.”

“My son! Don’t tell me you’re unwell now. Let this kind and generous father have a look at you!” Crowley cries in exaggerating worry.

All he got in return was his son looking at him deadpan. “I’m fine old man. I have a feeling a certain nephew of mine is unhappy with me and I have a lot to answer for.”

“You mean the one in yellow robes?” Crowley inquires. “Yes, that one.” Jiang Cheng replies.

“I see…well when we are done here, I would like to get to know of my grandson. I just think that he looks just like you that I thought you were brothers or he’s your son.”

“Yeah. I get that alot.” Jiang Cheng smiles. “I’m sure we’ll have a nice family outing one of these days eh, Father? I miss you quite a lot you know?”

The bird masked man smiles warmly in return. “Well…I’m here now, my precious son. I’m here now.”

Our precious Flower of Evil. We will never let you go.

Chapter Text

Jiang Cheng’s group manages to reach the location of the anchor. The demonic cultivator has not yet reached them. He turns to the others.

As they approach the anchor, they saw what it looked like. A twisted totem made from a number of mangled corpses tied to a pole within a array of runes fuelled by resentful energy.

The very sight of it disgusts those who saw it.

“How unsightly. To think such barbaric methods are being used for this. I suppose there isn’t any law regarding necromancy in this land, my son?” Dire Crowley asks.

“To the cultivation world, the dark arts of the Yiling Patriach are too heretical and defiles the very order of nature. Then again, it also defies the very concept of spiritual cultivation itself. To easily gain power without creating a golden core. Without hard work. To disrupt the spirits of the dead and prevent them from peacefully obtaining reincarnation or entering the afterlife.“ The Yunmeng Sect leader explains to his father figure. He pauses.

“Even if someone were to regulate it. To create laws for it, I don’t think its founder would even consider taking the responsibility of it. He’s too busy with freedom in his life to consider of such things. Perhaps he thinks that other people would clean up on his messes.” He mutters in a bitter tone.

Then again, Jiang Cheng wouldn’t consider himself an all around good person to take up that job. He thinks of the demonic cultivators that he had captured all those years ago. Before he appeared at Twisted Wonderland, all who followed his brother’s cultivation path were hunted down without mercy. It didn’t matter whether they would be Wei Wuxian reborn or not. Demonic cultivation will not harm anyone anymore.

But he had seen things at Night Raven College. Things that would probably count as demonic cultivation if they were to be used here. But there, even if there were spirits and dead people walking up and about; something about it felt natural.

Jiang Cheng had a hard time with that fact during his time there. But as he stayed in Ramshackle dorm, the ghosts there had been nothing but kind to him. Mischievous but not one of them are a tormented soul shackled to the world of the living.

When he returned back to his original world, he still continues his hunt against demonic cultivators. However, while the rest of the cultivation world believed that he had tortured and killed them, Jiang Cheng had other plans for them. Those who have truly strayed from the path of redemption, he executes them without hesitation. But to those who haven’t yet strayed, he gives them a choice. Abandon the dark arts and become a disciple of Lotus Pier or if they wish to remain with the dark arts, swear an oath of loyalty to Lotus Pier and be bound by the laws of Sandu Senghou.

‘Stray from morality and death will your reward.’ He had mentioned to those that wished to continue cultivating in the ghostly path. He names them as his Black Lotus; a secret of Lotus Pier that the cultivation world will never find out. Their duties include collecting and guarding all knowledge regarding demonic cultivation, conducting approved experiments from Sandu Sengshou himself and even updating the use of demonic cultivation itself. He finds that sometimes to fight monsters, you would have to use monsters of your own.

His thoughts go to his senior, Idia, and his dear friend, Ortho. The relationship of the Shroud brothers was both heartwarming but also tragic. In some ways, it kinda reminds him of his relationship with Wei Wuxian. But unlike his relationship with Wei Wuxian, he couldn’t help his jealousy towards Ortho at one point. Why didn’t Ortho hate Idia for what he did to him!? How could Idia do that to his little brother!? But as he spent more time the with Shroud brothers, it was not in his place to say anything. What they had was trust to the other.

“Because big brother cares for me. And I care for him too. I trust him just like he trusts me. I care for and trust you too Jiang Cheng.” Ortho once said. Despite his metallic body, his friend gave him the warmest hug that night; tears endlessly flowing down his face.

“Can anyone take out their phone for me? I want to check something.” Jiang Cheng asks.

Leona fishes through his pocket and hands him his mobile phone. Jiang Cheng quickly opens the device to examine it for something.

During his time at Night Raven College, Jiang Cheng had spend most of his free time learning and understanding technology as well as internet culture from any of his friends, mainly Cater and Idia. When he first entered that world, he had the biggest culture shock of his life.

Everything was so modern and different; from the buildings, to the everyday appliances and even the culture! He however, refused to be the laughingstock of Night Raven for failing to adapt to their modern technology and culture. So anytime he was free, he would either make his way to the library to get books on these matters. Hell, once he had managed to strike a friendship with Cater, who is the biggest social media user, and Idia, who is a master of technology, it didn’t take long for Jiang Cheng himself to be good at it. He would say that he’s excellent at technology despite in Ace’s words, “A grandpa from a medieval world.”

He strangled the ginger with his thighs until said ginger begged for mercy.

As expected. There’s no signal here. There goes that plan. But wait…maybe there is something Jiang Cheng can do with this.

“Leona. Is it alright if I tamper with your phone for a bit?” Jiang Cheng asks the lion beastman.

Leona huffs.

“Do whatever you want. If you break it, you pay for it, you got that Kitten?” Leona lazily says.

Jiang Cheng couldn’t stop himself from rolling his eyes. He looks back to Leona’s phone. Hmmm…adding a bit of spiritual power here and a entry of codes there.

*Ding!*

Oh god! It worked! He managed to created a phone signal with cultivation!

He quickly types out a quick message to the second and third years.

‘SIGNAL SHORT. HAVE REACHED TARGET. SIGNAL FLARE FROM MALLEUS. BEGIN DISMANTLING ANCHORS.’ - JC

‘And send message.’ Jiang Cheng hits the send button.

“Get ready everyone. We’re gonna start now.” Jiang Cheng

He turns to Malleus and nods at the Diasomnia dorm leader. Malleus returns the nod and slams his staff once more.

A green bolt of fire fires off straight into the sky.

From the other directions of the anchors, the other members of Night Raven saw the signal. Vil saw the green fire up in the air and looked back to his phone to his Little Potato’s message that had been sent through Leona’s contact number. He snapped his phone shut and turns to his group.

“Let’s begin.” He simply says.

“Alright everyone let’s not waste time!” Lilia happily says as his group circle around the anchor, magic pens at the ready.

“The signal is lit. Let us begin.” Riddle orders his team.

The dismantling process begins as they try to disenchant the power of the arrays. Whenever Yunmeng Jiang would go out on night hunts, Jiang Cheng would bring three of his Black Lotus with them. Two seniors and a junior. Especially when the hunts involve with demonic cultivation, the Black Lotus do come in handy with their expertise.

Now that he’s with his friends and family from Night Raven with him. With guidance from Jiang Cheng, it’s almost easy to dismantle the anchor.

“Stop right there! Don’t you dare destroy my arrays!” The demonic cultivator finally manages to reach them. He looks so out of breath as he spent most of his energy trying to chase after Jiang Cheng and his friends. Behind him is a large army of corpses, ferocious and ready to tear them apart.

Hmmm…this seems to be a problem.

Dire Crowley steps forward.

“Now young man. I must ask that you turn around and walk away for I am generous and kind enough.” The crow masked headmaster says.

Said demonic cultivator merely scoffs.

“Walk away?” He says in disbelief. “There is no walking away from this. Sandu Sengshou will die today. I will make sure of it!”

The yellow glow in Crowley’s eyes narrow. How disappointing. To turn down his kindness and also to threaten his son. Such disrespect will not go unpunished.

“You dare think that you can kill my son? In front of his father!? Such arrogance!” The feathers on his coat began to rise up as magical energy crackle around him, making him look more threatening. Any Night Raven student would take this as a sign that you don’t wanna mess with the headmage when he gets like, a sure fine way to know that you fucked up real bad.

But the demonic cultivator had no such inkling. “Sandu Sengshou’s father? You? You are no Jiang Fengmian. A mere lunatic that’s what you are!”

He gathers resentful energy around his hand, a cruel smile on his face. “It doesn’t matter. You’ll die either way.”

To Dire Crowley, that is simply a false statement. He will win and that is that.

He is Jiang Cheng’s kind and generous father after all!

(No it was not meant to one up Crewel, Crewel’s the favourite dad. (He will win that title from Crewel, just you wait!!!))

He points his cane towards his enemy.

This will be fun after all.

Chapter Text

The demonic cultivator struck first as bolts of black smoke make their way towards the crow masked mage.

“Hmph. How foolish.” Crowley says. With a flick of his finger, the incoming blast dissipates into harmless black smoke. Well, Crowley will give points for trying but alas, such unruly people must face the consequences of their actions. The demonic cultivator shoots more and more black bolts of death towards the masked man only for said man to easily swipe them away. Growing more and more frustrated, he shouts out a command to his undead servants to kill Crowley.

The corpses move with unnatural speed and ferocity as they try to claw their way towards Crowley.

The cane on his hand begins to glow a soft blue light and with a grace of a dancer, Dire Crowley dodges each strike from the fierce corpses and whacks them in retaliation. The corpses fell down like a sack of potatoes.

‘A pity. I thought this would be more challenging.’ The headmage thinks as he swings his cane to swipe another charging fierce corpse away from the others. ‘Sloppy. I’ve seen lesser necromancers with better control of their undead. Let’s just finish this nonsense.’

“My dear son. How much longer until the array is dismantled?” Crowley calls out.

Jiang Cheng whose eyes are closed as he’s focusing returns the question. “Just a few more minutes Father. We’re almost done.”

“Well then. Let me help finish this quickly.” Crowley says as he sprints past the corpses protecting the demonic cultivator. The demonic cultivator could not react fast enough as Crowley’s clawed hand grabs him by the collars of his robes and with an expertise movement throws him down to the ground and swiftly kicks him at the stomach which promptly knocks the demonic cultivator out.

Crowley stands up and gently fixes his coat and hat. A simple chant with a click of his finger, a wave of powerful magic blasts the corpses surrounding him. All obstacles are now cleared as the Night Raven’s headmage turns to the group.

“Now then. Let’s wrap things up shall we? We’ve delayed long enough.” He says. He joins the circle and sends out his magic to dismantle the array.

With Crowley joining in, the array breaks as a column of light flares up to the sky. Three other columns of light from different directions also appear as the other teams have successfully completed their task.

As the flares died down so too are the fierce corpse as they dropped like puppets without a string. All the four groups gather back to where the first years and Jin Ling were left behind. The passed out demonic cultivator is being dragged by Crowley with his “Whip of Love”. By the looks of it, that cultivator is not waking up anytime soon.

“Hmph. Now that issue is solved.” Crowley begins. He goes to Jiang Cheng and wraps him in a hug.

Jin Ling who is observing this notices that his Jiujiu did not reject the hug but seems to lean into the other man’s embrace. His Jiujiu looks so calm and dare he says happy. There is another man with a strange black and white hair who pulls Jiujiu away from the masked man and fusses over him, is that a blush on his Jiujiu’s face!?

Never in his wildest dreams does he see his strict Jiujiu being fussed over by someone who looks like his age and blushing.

“Baba please! I’m fine Baba.” Jiang Cheng says as Divus continues to inspect and fuss over him.

“Don’t be ridiculous my puppy son. You looked ragged before we came here and I for one will not have it if there’s an overlooked injury on you.” Crewel explains.

Jiang Cheng turns to his friends and the other three teachers to which most of them either are snickering at his dilemma or giving looks of apology. So much for that. He turns to his Crowley.

“Father…” he says.

Crowley only shakes his head. “As much as I want to, I’m afraid your Baba is right. We can’t overlook any injuries that might be hidden. Let your Baba look after you.”

Seeing that he has no help from there too, he lets himself be.

“Jiujiu…why did you call him Baba and that man Father?” Jin Ling questions. He looks so confused by what’s happening. On one hand, his Jiujiu is so happy but on the other hand, Jin Ling needs answers.

Jiang Cheng steps away from Crewel. The blush is still on his face. Right. He should have start with that.

“Right.” Jiang Cheng coughs. “Let me introduce my family and friends to you Jin Ling.” He starts. He doesn’t know why he’s feeling this flustered but he really wants Jin Ling to accept the family he founded at Twisted Wonderland.

Before he could begin the introductions, Crowley puts his hands on his shoulders.

“Please my son. Allow us to spare you the trouble.” Crowley says.

He goes to face Jin Ling and the rest of the Lan group.

“Allow us to introduce ourselves.” He starts.

Chapter Text

“My name is Dire Crowley. Head Mage of Night Raven College, an all-boys school of magic in Twisted Wonderland.” Said the crow masked man. He bows his head in a respectful manner towards Jin Ling.

At this point, Jiang Cheng, after being released from Crewel’s fussing goes to check over Jin Ling over his condition. Jin Ling accepts his Jiujiu’s fussing without question while still staring at Dire Crowley. An all-boys school? A magic school? Twisted Wonderland? What the what!?

He turns to his Jiujiu hoping that he would explain further.

“Sect leader Ouyang requested aid from me about a demonic cultivator problem within his area.” Jiang Cheng starts.

To which Lan Wangji let out a subtle “tsk” and a glare at Jiang Cheng from the mere mention of hunting demonic cultivators. Such an act however, was not missed from the eyes of some of the Night Raven people who choose to ignore for now.

“When we had defeated the demonic cultivator, we started to clear the area of any of resentful or demonic energies. That is where there was an artifact that the demonic cultivator was working on. We didn’t know what the mirror does but all we know is that it was filled with resentful energy. As we try to contain the mirror, the energy exploded around me as I was the one closest to it.” Jiang Cheng explains. He looks at his nephew as Jin Ling’s eyebrow narrowed from his story.

“Next thing I know, I woke up from inside a coffin.”

That got a surprised reaction from Jin Ling.

“What!? A coffin!? You died!?” His nephew’s eyes went wide and yells in surprise. Jiang Cheng rolls his eyes at his nephew. “No you brat! As you can see I’m still alive and kicking! The only thing that would drive me to an early grave is how bratty you are.” He pinches Jin Ling’s left cheek.

His nephew flails indignantly from his uncle’s pinching.

“Ow! Ow! Ow! Jiujiu! Please!” the young Jin begs. Jiang Cheng lets go with a huff.

“That hurt you know.” Jin Ling whines as he tries to soothe his injured cheek.

“Anyways.” Jiang Cheng continues as if nothing happened. “I woke up from a coffin and found out I was in a different world and somehow managed to get myself enrolled into Night Raven College since Father.” He gives a side eye to Crowley to where the man himself looks away and sheepishly smiles. “Is a gracious and kind man.”

Crowley coughs.

“Well…I am indeed a gracious and kind man.” He smiles brightly.

Everyone from Night Raven merely rolls their eyes as if such a thing has been heard far too many times for their liking.

“And the rest is history. Anyways it would be best to introduce them.” Jiang Cheng says.

Crewel takes this moment to step up.

“My name Divus Crewel. I am teacher of Science and Potionology.”

“My name is Mozus Trein. I am a teacher of Social Studies and History. This is my familiar, Lucius.” Trien introduces. Lucius meows in respond.

“I am Ashton Vargas, athletic trainer and flight instructor!” Vargas loudly proclaims with a enthusiastic voice.

Sam waves cheerfully at the cultivators.

“Names Sam. I run a shop at the school and take care of any supplies needed. Pleasure to meet you little demons.” Sam waves cheerfully.

Jin Ling turns to the other boys in strange uniforms. What kind of bizarre clothing do these guys wear?

“In that case, let me introduce you to my friends, Jin Ling.” Jiang Cheng says as he shows he friends to the others.

Riddle steps forward and salutes in respect to the others. The red haired male is shorter than Jin Ling but his posture and attitude is that of someone who has the grace of a leader. It makes Jin Ling a bit envious of such a sight.

“Greetings to you, Jiang Cheng’s nephew. My name is Riddle Rosehearts. I am head warden of Heartslabyul, the house that is founded on the Queen of Hearts’ spirit of strictness. This here is my right hand, Trey Clover.” Trey steps forward and bows.

“Cater Diamond.” Cater steps forward and bows.

“Ace Trappola.” Ace waves and smiles. “Hi!” To which Riddle glares at him as the ginger head quickly bows in respect.

“And finally, Deuce Spade.” Deuce steps forward and bows, although a bit nervous.

Leona steps forward and bows in his lazy way of greeting. “Name’s Leona Kingscholar, head warden of Savanaclaw, the house founded on the King of Beasts’ spirit of persistence.” He yawns. “This is my second in command, Ruggie Bucchi.”

Ruggie waves lazily. “Shi shi shi~ Hello everyone.”

“And this is our freshman, Jack Howl.” Jack’s face as stern as ever when he gives his greeting. Jiang Cheng looks at Jack with a happy smile on his face, goes to pat Jack on the head.

“Smile a bit Jack!” He says.

Jack who bows his head to Jiang Cheng as Jiang Cheng gleefully rubs the white haired man’s ears. There’s a small blush on Jack’s face as Jiang Cheng happily scratches the other. Safe to say, his actions were quite a shock to the cultivators.

Azul steps forward, his mannerisms reminded Jin Ling of his late uncle, Jin Guangyao, except that there’s a flair of dramatics that Jin Guangyao couldn’t ever bring himself to do.

“Respect and salutations. I am Azul Ashengrotto, head warden of Octavinelle, the house founded on the Sea Witch’s spirit of benevolence. Truly it is honour to be in the presence of great people.” Azul says.

Jade and Floyd step forward simultaneously. “Greetings, I am Jade Leech.” Jade starts. “Name’s Floyd Leech.” Floyd continues. “We’re the Vice Warden of Octavinelle. Should you require a desire fulfilled, we are willing to help.” Jade smiles.

Floyd however has turned his attention to Jiang Cheng and goes over to him. The tall teal haired man wraps him arms around the purple robed man in a tight hug.

“Shrimpy! I missed ya so much! Don’t you miss me too!?” Floyd excitedly yells as he swings Jiang Cheng left and right.

“Down Floyd! Down!” Jiang Cheng yells. His head is buried deep at Floyd’s chest. “Of course I missed you too, you big eel!”

Floyd misses his shrimpy very much. He never wants to squeeze his Shrimpy very much and never let go.

Meanwhile Jin Ling is looking at the scene with even more confusion. ‘Shrimpy!?’ What is even that nickname!? And why is Jiujiu even allowing that guy to hug him so casually.

After that, Kalim steps forward along with Jamil. Kalim bows with proper posture as he greets. “Hello, my name is Jamil and this is my Vice Warden Jamil. We are from Scarabia, the house founded on the Sorcerer of the Sands’ spirit of mindfulness.”

“We hope to not trouble you as guests of this realm.” Jamil adds in soft voice. Now that guy reminds Jin Ling of his late uncle. Call him crazy but he could feel that the guy called Jamil definitely reminds him of Jin Guangyao.

Vil steps forward and bows. “Greetings to all, I am Vil Schoenheit, Dorm Warden of Pomefiore, the house founded on the Fairest Queen’s spirit of tenacity. This is my Vice Warden, Rook Hunt and my junior, Epel Felmier.”

Both Rook and Epel bowed in perfect harmony as they greet the cultivators.

Idia shyly steps forward, preferably wanting to be anywhere else but here. “I’m Idia Shroud and this is my brother, Ortho Shroud. We’re from Ignihyde, the house founded on the King of the Underworld’s spirit of diligence. Nice to meet you I guess?”

Ortho elbows his brother. “Big brother, you need to be more polite.” Said brother merely shrugs. “What use is a mob like me going to do in front of those main characters?” He mumbles.

Jin Ling takes into the appearance of both Idia and Ortho, unsure how he is to comment on it.

Idia then moves to hide behind the crowd, seeing as he’s already used up his social energy for the day.

Malleus came forward and his presence alone made Jin Ling and the others step back with wariness as the the horned man seemed to exclude an aura of power and nobility that the cultivators hesitate.

“Greetings to you Children of Men. I am Malleus Draconia, Head Warden of Diasomnia, the house founded on the Thorn Fairy’s spirit of nobility. This is my Vice Warden, Lilia Vanrouge and these are my knights, Silver and Sebek Zigvolt. We are honoured to be here.” Malleus greets them.

Jiang Cheng smiles softly as Malleus finishes his speech. He goes over to the horned man and takes the other’s hand to his.

“It’s nice to have you here Tsunotarou.” Jiang Cheng softly says.

Malleus turns to Jiang Cheng with smile of his own.

“I’m glad to be here with you to my Child of Men.” Malleus answers.

They both seem to be in their own world that Jin Ling had to cough loudly to get their attention.

“While we thank you for your assistance, what is the purpose of your presence here, if I may be so bold to ask?” Jin Ling asks.

“Oh that’s easy. We’re here to bring Jiang Cheng back with us!” Kalim cheerfully answers.

A moment of silence falls around the cultivators.

“WHAT!?” Jin Ling yells.

Chapter Text

“What do you mean you’re bringing Jiujiu back with you!?” Jin Ling screams.

The other cultivators that gathered also looked stunned.

Ace looks at then as if they’re dumb. “Jiang Cheng is our friend. Of course we are bringing him back with us! What else are we here for?” The ginger answers.

Injured he may be, but the young Jin Sect Leader still stands up ready for a fight.

“I’m not gonna let you take him away! He’s my family!” Jin Ling yells. The audacity of these strange people coming from Heaven knows where and trying to take his Jiujiu away. No!

Jin Ling won’t allow it!

His Jiujiu belongs here with him!

He’s Jin Ling’s family!

Meanwhile, Jiang Cheng who had heard this went silent. All of them are here to bring him back to Twisted Wonderland, back to Night Raven. Try as he can, he cannot deny that returning to Twisted Wonderland where his deadbeat-but-trying father, his Baba and his friends all reside would be the choice he wants to take.

But he’s no longer that kid who accidentally got transported to that magical world and made a family there. He’s a Sect Leader and he has duties here.

Twisted Wonderland is a dream and here is reality. And he must always choose reality as disappointing as it may be.

Jiang Cheng shakes his head. “My nephew is right. I cannot go back to Night Raven College with you.” As he slowly lets go of Malleus’s hands.

Malleus’ eyes watch as the other lets go. Though his face would not show it, the light in the fae’s emerald eyes began to dim.

The other NRC students and staff looked shock.

“What do you mean you’re not coming with us!!” Ace and Deuce both yells.

“We kicked our asses to come here and save you!” Ace continues.

Jiang Cheng began to back away.

“Because as you can see, time had passed long already for us. I am a leader of a Sect and there are people who need me and I can’t just up and leave just like that! I have a duty to my people!” Jiang Cheng yells back.

Try as he may to want to just take that hand and go with them, he cannot.

He has a duty here. He has people who need him here…

Despite the small voice inside him that says that he doesn’t belong in the cultivation world as well…

The other NRC students want to try and say something but feel like they cannot.

Despite wanting to protest, Jiang Cheng was right on one thing. This is his world and he can’t just up and willy run away like that. For all the time that they’ve known Jiang Cheng, they know that Jiang Cheng will always be bound by responsibility and duty.

“Besides.” Jiang Cheng continues. “I’m no longer a student of Night Raven anymore and I’m not a resident of Twisted Wonderland, so by all means I don’t have any rights to be there.”

Dire Crowley lets out a small cough.

“Actually my boy, you never actually finished your studies and there was no letter of expulsion or anything that states you are not a student. And for that matter, technically, you are kind of a resident of Twisted Wonderland.” Crowley says.

Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling look at Dire Crowley in stunned silence.

The Lan group stared in confusion from Crowley’s words.

“What…? What do you mean? What does that mean? Father if you have something to say, please say it.” Jiang Cheng looks at the his bird-masked father.

Divus Crewel steps closer to Jiang Cheng. Jiang Cheng looks at him hoping for an answer. “Baba?”

“Well you see son, do you remember those papers that we asked you to sign?” Divus starts. “That time where me and Crowley said that we were going to adopt a baby and we needed a witness to sign the papers?”

Jiang Cheng ponders. He vaguely recall being asked to sign some papers that one time.

Wait…

Wait a damn minute…

“The baby is you. Me and Crowley were adopting you. And those papers are magically and legally binding. So in technicality, you’re part of Twisted Wonderland. Also, you didn’t really finish your education cause you know,” Crewel air fingers. “Disappeared from us and all that and your father never really took your name off from the school’s records.”

That…what…

He knows that he looks up to Dire and Divus, the both of them were the ones who tried to make sure that Jiang Cheng’s stay in Night Raven was comfortable, with Divus taking the first step to ensure that Jiang Cheng is well adjusted and educated and Dire who came in later. Divus acted so much like a parent that he just couldn’t stop calling him Baba and Divus even took it in stride.

But he didn’t think they would adopt him.

“Wait, so that means we’re family?” Jiang Cheng asks.

Both Crowley and Crewel nod their heads at Jiang Cheng’s question.

Laughter began to spill from his mouth as he lets a mirthful laugh, shocking everyone surrounding him.

“Has Minion gone crazy?” Grim quivers, as he grabs onto Ace’s shoulders.

“Jiang Cheng? Are you alright?” Kalim asks with a worried expression.

“Ortho, is he descending to madness!?” Idia exclaims. Ortho looks at the purple robed man and tilts in confusion.

“My scanners show that he’s fine and just laughing, Big Brother.” The younger Shroud brother says.

“Jiujiu…?” Jin Ling looks at him with worry.

The Lan group couldn’t even get a word out, with Wei Wuxian looking at his former shidi as if he’s already lost his mind.

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Jiang Cheng laughs. He wraps his arm around his stomach.

“I’m in a huge conundrum here. On one hand, I’m the leader of one of the Great Sects, a man who has gone through every turmoil and suffering. But on the other hand, I find out that I’m still a student and haven’t graduated yet. Fuck, my pride is telling me that I need to finish studying cause what kind of a sect leader am I if I didn’t finish my studies? It’s so hilarious!” Jiang Cheng laughs again.

A few moments later, he stops and wipes a tear that escaped from his eyes.

He turns to his Father, Dire Crowley and his Baba, Divus Crewel.

“It seems we’ll have to make a compromise. I can’t leave my sect but also it would be bad of my character if I didn’t finish my studies even if they are from another realm. And you are also family. If you like, I would love to show Lotus Pier and Yunmeng to all of you.” Jiang Cheng states.

Crowley nods his head.

“We are delighted to accept your offer.” The Headmaster says.

“That settles it.” Jiang Cheng nods and looks at his nephew and the other cultivators. “But firstly, we need to tend to the injured first. We’ll head to Lotus Pier. Are there any objections, Hanguang-jun?”

The Second Jade said nothing but stare at Jiang Cheng, either with confusion or anger, which he’ll just take it as a silent yes. The injured need to be taken care of and Jiang Cheng has quite the number of guests to make room at Lotus Pier.

He suppose that luck has has decided to give him a Cheshire Cat’s grin this as he never thought that the relationships he had made on that one moment had come back for him.

“Malleus, would you be dear and send us to Lotus Pier?” Jiang Cheng smiles at Malleus as he takes the tall Fae’s hand.

Malleus stares at Jiang Cheng for a few moments, then clasps his hand around Jiang Cheng’s with tenderness.

“Of course, my dear Child of Man. I know where it is. I have seen your home once upon a dream to know where to find it.”

With a flare of powerful magic that shook the earth, causing the Jin Ling and the other cultivators to be caught off guard by such a display of power.

With a flash of green, they all find themselves at Lotus Pier.

“Welcome to Lotus Pier.” Jiang Cheng says to his friends.

Chapter Text

With flash of green, everyone suddenly found themselves at the grounds of Lotus Pier. Honestly Jiang Cheng was a bit surprised that Malleus could teleport them inside the grounds but then again, Malleus is listed as one of the most powerful mages of the world, if anyone could do feats of magic of this calibre, it would be him.

“Thanks Tsunotarou.” Jiang Cheng says as Malleus looks down at him with a soft smile.

“It is of no issue, my dear Child of Man. For you, I would do anything to make you happy.” The horned fae answers.

“INTRUDERS!” The voices of Yunmeng disciples began to enter the vicinity. Ah right, Jiang Cheng should step in to avoid any problems.

“Stand down!” Jiang Cheng yells as his second in command and his disciples enter the area. All of them stopped with confusion on their faces. Weapons not drawn but kept at the ready as they take in the sight before them.

“Sect leader Jiang?” Yu Yejuan asks she looks at the people of NRC, then to Jin Ling and finally to the Lan group. “Is everything okay? This is quite the group you’ve brought.”

Jiang Cheng shakes his head. “Right now, Sect Leader Jin and Hanguang-Jun’s group need to be brought to the healers. We’ve ran afoul with a demonic cultivator who took us by surprise in the night hunt. These people helped us out. Speaking of, cousin, did you know that I’ve been adopted and I’m still technically a student!?” He says the last bit almost comically.

Yu Yejuan looks at her Sect Leader with wide eyes. “Respectfully cousin, what the fuck!? When!? How!? What!? Where!? Who!? Why!?”

Jiang Cheng shrugs nonchalantly. He pulls both Crowley and Crewel with him, both of his arms wrapping around theirs.

“Meet my Father, Dire Crowley and my Baba, Divus Crewel. They adopted me during that time with the incident of the “Ouyang Sect” case.” Jiang Cheng explains. “The mirror took me to another dimension where I don’t think I’ll survive without their help.”

His second in command took a moment to register his words.

Yes, that incident where their sect leader was sucked into a black mirror filled with resentful energy and disappeared for many a weeks. It was almost a political downfall for Yunmeng Jiang. With their Sect leader gone, people are gonna start asking questions. What about the young master Jin who will wonder where his Jiujiu is. What will become of the sect without the protection of their Sect leader’s fearsome reputation.

But Yu Yejuan supposes she should count her blessings for not one sect decided to fuck around with Lotus Pier or try to throw their weight around them. By the time, Jiang Cheng had returned to wherever he was, things seem to be moving along normally, as if he had never disappeared into thin air.

She looks at both the men who her Sect leader’s arms wrap around like he’s showing them off very proudly. They’re dressed so weirdly. One of them has weird black and white hair and wears a fur coat while the other wears a bird mask. She looks at the rest of the group that her Sect leader brought with him.

They really out of place here, she suppose that further solidifies her cousin’s words of being at another dimension. But then again, weird things happen when you’re a cultivator so she decided not to do anything unless these people decided otherwise.

“I understand Sect leader. Where shall our new guest be housed in?” She asks.

Jiang Cheng tilts his head for a moment before answering.

“I’ll take them to Ramshackle dorm.” Jiang Cheng says. Yu Yejuan merely nods her head and lets her Sect leader and his entourage pass through.

Jiang Cheng smiles at her, which shocks her even more that he’s smiling so widely, as he leads them away to some other part of Lotus Pier.

Yu Yejuan turns her attention to Jin Ling and his friends along with Hanguang Jun, his husband and their pet corpse.

Though seeing the Second Lan heir and his ever so popular husband and their little followers injured raise a spiteful satisfaction inside Yu Yejuan. It’s not everyday you get to see the people who dares to make mockery of your Sect leader in the position of needing help from the person they made a mockery of. But that’s her opinion.

She focuses more on Jin Ling, who seems to be looking at the direction of where his Jiujiu went. Is he feeling like he’s been abandoned? Is he jealous of these new strangers that seem to hog his Jiujiu’s attention? She can’t tell yet.

“Sect leader Jin.” She starts.

“Can you help us to the infirmary, Yu-jie?” Jin Ling says. “We were quite unprepared for tonight’s Night Hunt.”

She nods in understanding. “Of course Sect Leader Jin, let us get you all to infirmary.” She quickly calls to the other disciples to tend to the Lans, Wei Wuxian and the Ghost General.

“What’s the deal with Jiang Cheng huh? Why did he calls those two men his fathers? Where did those people even come from? Can someone explain something to me?” Wei Wuxian who had been silent most of the time now speaks after the initial shock.

“Yeah what was that all about?” Lan Jingyi also pipes up.

Yu Yejuan sneers at their direction. “That is neither the concerns of the Lans nor of the Yiling Patriarch. This is Jiang sect matter and also family matters.” She answers them with no nonsense tone.

Wei Wuxian flinches from her tone to which Lan Wangji glares at her for her rudeness. Which is to say she cares not of second young masters and their weight throwing. Seeker of justice her ass.

She shoos them away to the infirmary to where the disciples silently follow and guide their injured guests without a word. Despite the loud noises of certain patriarch. The captured demonic cultivator is lead to their jail cells and will await for punishment.

She turns back to Jin Ling.

“You alright?” She questions the young man.

“They wanted to take him away you know? Those people with Jiujiu right now. They wanted to bring him back to their world.” The Jin Sect leader starts. Yu Yejuan’s eyes widen with shock at Jin Ling’s words. Is Jiang Cheng going to be okay!? Why did she allow him to be alone with them!? Are they going to take away now!?

Jin Ling holds her hand to stop her from rushing to where Jiang Cheng is.

“Jin Ling what-“ She says.

“I protested at them for trying to take my Jiujiu away, but it was Jiujiu who said that he can’t follow them. He said that whatever time he had with them had passed and that even if he did follow them, he wouldn’t feel like he belonged.” Jin Ling stared again the direction where his Jiujiu went. “But when I saw Jiujiu with them, he looked so young Yu-jie. So young and so happy. A selfish part of me screamed that he’s my Jiujiu and he should stay here with me. But another part of me never saw Jiujiu that young and happy and guiltily I wanted to see him that way even if it meant letting him go.”

The young sect leader looks down.

“Jiujiu stays because there’s me and the Yunmeng Jiang sect to look after. Despite how much I tend to be annoyed whenever he hovers around me, I love Jiujiu so much that I don’t really care that he hovers around me. But I also know that lately Jiujiu is hurt somewhere inside. Somewhere that I can’t see and it scares me Yu-jie. It felt like he would break one day and I wouldn’t even know it. And when he called those two men his fathers and when he was with his friends, you should have seen it Yu-jie. You wouldn’t even believe that’s Jiujiu right there and then.” He grips his knuckles hard that he might draw blood from them.

“Right now, I won’t do anything yet. I need to know if these people will take care of Jiujiu right. I won’t meddle yet but I hope I get to talk to Jiujiu about this. Jiujiu took care of me for all my life, to ensure that I love a happy life and I want to do the same for him.”

The second in command was stunned by the words that Jin Ling had said.

It’s true that their sect leader had that weary look about him. After the incident, he did seemed out of place for awhile before going back to his usual self. Then there was that incident at the Ancestral Hall and Guanyin Temple that just seem to return that out of place mood he’s been having. She kept seeing him looking far away as if trapped in a memory before returning and feeling disappointed.

At first she thought that he was having memories of Wei Wuxian. After the former had decided to leave their past in the past and walked away with Hanguang-jun, which she is still pissed at the incident at the Ancestral Hall. They had no right! No right to come there as if the hall belongs to them and dare attack and insult her leader in front of his ancestors.

That fucking corpse dare to use truth to hurt him! She will cut that wretched Wen spawn’s head and hang it by the ruins of Nightless City like a fucking flag. Or perhaps cut him to pieces and bury him where his sister died if she’s feeling vindictive.

But now it appears that is not the case. The memories are not of stupid people that walked away but of a family he had found in another realm. A found family and friends that would cross dimensions to come rescue him.

Damn it all…

She sees the young Jin’s dilemma now.

Chapter Text

-FLASHBACK-

Jiang Cheng found a plot of land that wasn’t used by the sect as they were rebuilding. True after the Sunshot Campaign and the Siege of the Burial Mounds, Yunmeng Jiang tried to expand their buildings and areas. It took many works and projects to get where they are now. So one day when going out for a walk one fine day, he saw a interesting plot of land. Quite a few distance from his sect but not that far, this one seems like a private island here. So he did the most rational thing, he goes there to investigate. The island had a small forest he presumes and deeper he goes into the woods, the more he feels like this island is not ordinary island. The area where he is walking now feels more bigger than he anticipated.

Out from the woods he reaches a huge clearing. Far ahead he sees what appears to be a ruin of a building.

‘That’s strange. How is it that throughout all my life, I’ve never seen this place before.’ He thinks as he walks to the ruined area. The closer he gets the more he feels like he’s not where he is.

One is that the energies of the land are weird. Not resentment but not spiritual either but there are powers at work here that’s making him feel weird. Hand careful on Sandu as he almost reaches the ruined area. He first scans the area for any threats and after confirming there are no threats to worry about, he takes in the sight of the ruins.

It looked someone had lived but the whole place is in crumbles. There’s pillars and solid foundation but that’s about it. It looked like there was a house build here.

“What the heck happened here?” Jiang Cheng said out loud.

[Ruined…lonely…empty…] A voice is heard.

Jiang Cheng unsheathes Sandu as he looks for the source of the voice.

“Whose there!? Show yourself spirit!” Jiang Cheng yells.

[Lonely…owner…no one…] the voice continues.

“Who lived here?” Jiang Cheng questions.

[Friend…owner…gone…long…remember…not…anymore…] the voice answers. [You…familiar…but…not…recognise…]

‘Familiar? How am I familiar but it doesn’t recognise me? Did one of my ancestors live here?’ Jiang Cheng wonders. Best he asks. “Did an ancestor of mine lived here?”

[No…not Jiang…not cultivator…feel familiar…] the voice answers.

That’s not helpful at all. What is this thing? Does Jiang Cheng need to exorcise it? But it doesn’t feel like resentful energy.

[You…new owner…feel familiar…stay?] the voice now asks.

“You want me to be your new owner? Why should I? I don’t know you.” Jiang Cheng fires back. He should probably leave this place. Any longer and he might not really leave here.

However the voice answers him and this time it’s tone was final and happy. Almost childlike.

[Stay!You are new owner! Happy for new owner! Feel familiar! Happy! Happy! Will rebuild again!] the voice chimes out.

What in the ever loving fuck!? Rebuild!? Owner!? Before Jiang Cheng can do anything, the ground begins to shake and he feel and see energy began to gather around the ruined building. Wood and stone rises from the ground. Manifestations of strange powers began to fill the air as the ruined building began to rebuild itself.

Next thing Jiang Cheng knows, the building of his memories and dreams appear.

Ramshackle dorm. The dorm where his life in Night Raven College and Twisted Wonderland began.

“What the…what in the absolute fuck…”Jiang Cheng’s eyes widen as he takes it all in. The doors of Ramshackle opens and he steps inside. Everything was the same as it was before. He wonders through the lounge and it feels like he never left Night Raven.

But he supposes that this house is not done showing more weird shit, he goes up to the other rooms and lo and behold, it opens up to the other dorms. All seven dorms!

Heartslabyul, Savannahclaw, Octavinelle, Scarabia, Pomefiore, Ignihyde and Diasomnia.

One door even lead him to a replica of Night Raven College itself! The classes, the sport field and heck even the greenhouse.

The more he wandered the more he discovered about this place. Though this place on limits itself to only Night Raven College and the dorms and the were doors that did not lead to other parts of Twisted Wonderland.

A vast realm but there is no residence here.

But still…

What the fuck!? Was someone from Twisted Wonderland had came here to this world!? Was this what the voice meant by familiar? Not an ancestor but someone from Twisted Wonderland themselves had come here and settled? The more questions he ask himself the more he is confused.

The house recognises Night Raven College and could manifest rooms to copy them but of course it’s not a portal to Twisted Wonderland, otherwise he would have seen his friends.

There’s a sliver of disappointment but with what he has, it makes it feel like what he had experienced was not some weird dream or illusion but a memory that is real.

He goes back to Lotus Pier and tells his Second in Command that he discovered a new place but didn’t specify. All he said was that he called it Ramshackle Dorm and it would be his secret place whenever he felt like taking a break from the politics and stupid people.

-FLASHBACK ENDS-

So when Jiang Cheng had shown his Dads and friends of the Ramshackle dorm that he found, needless to say everyone was shocked.

“This is literally Ramshackle dorm right in front of our eyes man!” Ace and Deuce yell in combination. Jack and Epel both nod their heads in confirmation.

“Well when I first found this place and it turned into this, it got even weirder.” And Jiang Cheng guides them all to a room where it shows the Hall of Mirrors. He guides them to each of the dorms that Ramshackle has provided.

Crowley finally speaks up after the tour from Jiang Cheng. “What you have here my son, is a Miracle.”

Jiang Cheng tilts his head at Crowley’s words. “A Miracle? What’s that?”

“Miracles are the most rarest forms of magic that ever existed. No mage knows how it originates but there are tales of a family called the Madrigals who lived in a land called Encanto where the power of a miracle had blessed their lands and created a home for them.” The Headmage explains to everyone.

“Well that explains it. This house also manages to procure items that only exists in Twisted Wonderland. I never really brought them out from here but they did provide, which is weird by the way.” Jiang Cheng says.

“The fact you managed to discover a land blessed by a Miracle is something else. Truly exceptional.” Lilia comments with a wide smile on his face. Malleus seem to smile too at Lilia’s words.

Everyone looked impressed by it. Jiang Cheng turns his head away to his reddening face. It wasn’t even that special. All he did was just walking to take a break from being a Sect leader and the land itself decided it liked him.

“Anyways, it’s getting late and I think it’s best if we all go to bed tonight. Besides, I need to check up on my nephew.” Jiang Cheng tries to sound confident.

“Sure sure Mr Big Tough Guy. After fighting a horde of zombies I can say that I’m beat.” Epels as he stretches his limbs.

“I suppose so dear Trickster. A good rest is all we need isn’t it, Roi du Poison?” Rook looks to Vil. Vil nods his head as he walks to the mirror leading to Pomefiore. He gently places his hand on Jiang Cheng’s shoulders. “It is good to see my Dear Lotus flower.” And the blond haired man walks away.

Everyone soon goes to their respective dorms that is prepared but not without saying that they’ll see Jiang Cheng tomorrow morning. Everyone seem to be moving except for Grim who seem to be waiting for him.

“Grim? What are you doing here?” Jiang Cheng asks as he goes to pick Grim up.

“Waiting for you of course! I haven’t seen you for a long time Henchman. I missed you so much…” Grim mumbles the last part. He snuggles deeper into Jiang Cheng’s chest. Oh how Jiang Cheng’s heart weeps at the sight of his proud and mischievous baby. Those times separated have not been kind to the both of them. They’ll have to make up for all that lost time together.

“Do you want to meet my nephew Grim?” Jiang Cheng asks. Grim looks up to Jiang Cheng with big eyes.

“Sure. I just want to stay with you though Henchman. I missed ya so much nya.”

Chuckling, Jiang Cheng tightens his hold on Grim as he steps out from Ramshackle and makes his way to Lotus Pier.

He definitely has a lot of things to explain to his nephew and second in command.

Chapter Text

Jiang Cheng, with Grim on his shoulder, made their way back to Lotus Pier. The night seems to be calm and quiet. A bit cold too but that’s okay, Grim’s fur and flames really make him quite toasty as the cat monster nuzzles closer to Jiang Cheng’s neck. Grim looks at the scenery of Lotus Pier with a curious that can kill a cat.

“There’s so many Lotus flowers here Henchman! This place really looks like royalty! Who’d thought you’d be a rich person Nya!” Grim exclaims as they come across the infirmary. Thankfully the head healer is still awake and she bows her head in greeting as Jiang Cheng comes closer.

“Sect leader Jiang. We have tended to the injured and so far no major injuries. With a bit of rest, they will fine tomorrow. Hanguang-jun and his ilk are staying at the guest quarters, though I hope not to hear his husband’s voice at any point in time, least I cause an incident.” The head healer huffs. “I swear for all his genius, he deserves a whack in the head.”

Jiang Cheng lets out a laugh. “Pity that even wee love tap would incur the wrath of the ever gracious Jade Lan.”

Grim tilts his head in confusion. “Are we talking about someone?”

Jiang Cheng just pats his partner’s head. He wonder’s if he could gossip with his friends about his apparent dislike for the second Lan. He doesn’t really hate the Lan man, but he’s just annoying to Jiang Cheng. The mere fact that he thinks he can disrespect Jiang Cheng to his face and get away with it really hackles his nerves. Where does he get the face to think he can disrespect a sect leader and face the consequences?

The only luck that Jade has is that Jiang Cheng has no time for pests and drama. But with the current situation, that Jade’s pettiness is no match for the collective egos that is his friends. He may not have realised that Wei Wuxian’s core now sits inside him but he’s not dumb enough to know that he managed to gather simps in Twisted Wonderland.

And he’s not ashamed to say that he too is a simp. Like hello, he has eyes. But dear oh dear, does he have a lot of things to settle. First his nephew. Then his fathers. Finally those whom he had pursued in Night Raven. Truthfully, he wonders if old flames can burn again. But that’s a talk for another time.

“I need to look for Jin Ling, is he here?” Jiang Cheng asks the head healer. The head healer shakes her head. “Sect leader Jin made his way to your sleeping chambers, Sect leader Jiang. Not my place to say when a nephew wants quality time with his Jiujiu.”

Jiang Cheng nods his head and thanks her. He walks away to his rooms. Well his nephew sure doesn’t waste time.

“Is your nephew not happy with us, Henchman? Is that why you look tense? Do I need to ruffle him up?” Grim asks.

“Don’t be ridiculous Grim. Despite him being a brat, he’s still my brat. Although I do feel like I need to break his legs when he gets on my nerves.” Jiang Cheng grumbles lightheartedly. The duo reached to Jiang Cheng’s sleeping quarters. True to the head healer’s words, when Jiang Cheng enters his room, his nephew is already there waiting for him.

Jin Ling turns and sees his Jiujiu, and also that weird cat yao that his Jiujiu is strangely familiar with.

“Jiujiu.” Jin Ling starts. Gods this might even be difficult than he imagined. How does he even start?

“A-Ling, come here and sit with me. I know you have many questions.” Jiang Cheng guides his nephew to sit on Jiang Cheng’s bed. Grim takes this opportunity to jump from his shoulders and land onto the bed, kneading the fabrics with his paws as he makes himself comfortable.

“When I was trapped at the other world, I felt like there was no way for me to go home. That was a moment of terror for me, to leave behind my sect and you. But I also felt that I know that you all will be fine without me. My sect was already strong enough that even without me, they can stand on their own and you will always have the protection of Yunmeng should the Jins do anything.” Jiang Cheng says.

Jin Ling stares at his Jiujiu with poorly hidden horror. His Jiujiu wouldn’t return back to his world!? He could have lost his Jiujiu forever!?

“At first, there was that fear that I wouldn’t survive at Twisted Wonderland. Everything was so bizarre A-Ling that I could tell you the things I saw and experienced you wouldn’t believe me. The culture and lifestyle there was so different than what I was used to. Even the technology was vastly superior than what we have here. But I wasn’t going to let something as culture and lifestyle ruin my chances of survival, so I learned, which is lucky of me that the place I got sent to is a place of learning.” Jiang Cheng turns to Grim.“Remember how we met for the first time Grim?” He snickers.

Grim puffs his chest at those words.

“Hmph! You tried to kill me! That’s mean of you Nya!” Grim yells.

“In my defence, a strange talking monster threatened to burn me alive if I didn’t strip my robes and give it to him.” Jiang Cheng counters back. Jin Ling looks at Jiang Cheng in confusion.

“Well…it started like this…” and Jiang Cheng tells his nephew that starting of his experience at Night Raven College as well the adventures that he and friends experienced together. Throughout Jiang Cheng story, Jin Ling listened with apt attention as he takes in his Jiujiu’s facial expressions as he continues.

His Jiujiu had experienced a whole different life. He even was transported to a world where he couldn’t access to his Golden Core!? He couldn’t use his cultivation at all and yet still his Jiujiu thrived.

Jin Ling also some questions.

“So what’s the deal with you and the horned man? You seemed very close.” Jin Ling questions.

“Hmm? You mean Tsunotarou? He’s a very dear person to me. We kinda dated during my time there.” Jiang Cheng confesses.

Eyes widen by the casual confession that is his Jiujiu. His Jiujiu, the one blacklisted by matchmakers, the one who scowls first before anything, the one who he suspects may not cutsleeves, is in a relationship with another man!? Jin Ling is getting more surprises each day!

“Well…”. Jiang Cheng shrugs. “I did also dated Floyd, Leona, Jack, Epel, Sebek, Silver, Trey, Carter, Deuce, and Ace.”

“Wait…you dated those guys too!?” Jin Ling yells.

“At the same time.” Jiang Cheng nods.

“You…you’re not pulling my leg are you Jiujiu? You’re not just saying this to get a reaction out of me right?” Jin Ling stutters, still in shock by his Jiujiu’s confession.

“This is me being truthful. Honestly, I’m still surprised that they came for me.” Jiang Cheng lays back down on his bed and stares at the ceiling. There is a warm feeling creeping up inside the more he thinks of that time. Everyone came. Grim came back to him. Malleus answered his call. If this is a dream, he dares not wake up from this.

Jin Ling however is just staring at this new side of his Jiujiu that he never thought he’d ever see with his own eyes.

His Jiujiu has always put up a stern and strong front with other people. Only rarely does he show such a vulnerable side to anyone. Hell, rarely Jin Ling himself see this side of Jiujiu and he’s been raised by Jiujiu for all his life.

He’ll need to see this Night Raven College people before he makes his judgement. Wei Wuxian is still kicking a fuss about these new people that Jiujiu apparently knows and Jin Ling thinks vindictively that is what that man deserves. While he may respect the Yiling Patriarch’s intelligence and charisma, he still decided to walk away from Jiujiu and hurt Jiujiu.

Jin Ling had tried once to get Jiujiu and Wei Wuxian to reconcile but Jiujiu quickly nipped it in the bud, citing that if two people no longer want anything to do with each other, it would be impossible for them to reconnect. The fact remains that Jiujiu felt hurt by Wei Wuxian’s actions and decided that no longer shall he chase after the past.

They both grew up. They both walk different paths. They both just don’t have anything in common. That is what Jiujiu said. But it still worried Jin Ling when after Guanyin Temple, Jiujiu began to have that distant look in his eyes. Perhaps instead of Wei Wuxian, the memory of the past was that of Jiujiu’s friends from another world.

“Well A-Ling, tonight has been a rather long night and I’m tired.” Jiang Cheng says as he gets up to get change into his sleeping wear. Jin Ling gets up to follow him to prepare as well.

Once they both changed into their sleeping clothes, Jiang Cheng picks up Grim and cradles the cat monster to his chest. Grim already fast asleep, subconsciously burrows deep against Jiang Cheng’s body.

“You two seem really close Jiujiu.” Jin Ling says, observing the two with a curious expression. “It reminds me of me and Fairy.”

“Grim’s my partner. I don’t know how to explain it, it’s like we’re both two peas in a pod. We didn’t get along initially but in due time, we both just respected and care for each other very much, despite the fact he gets into trouble for his own tendencies to get carried away.” Jiang Cheng smiles fondly as he looks down at the sleeping Grim.

Both uncle and nephew then settle themselves on Jiang Cheng’s bed. Jin Ling inches closer and wraps his arm around Jiang Cheng, being careful of Grim sleeping in his Jiujiu’s arms.

“I love you Jiujiu. I just thought you should know that.” Jin Ling says, closing his eyes to sleep.

“I know brat. Tomorrow morning I’ll take you to Ramshackle dorm and introduce you to everyone.” Jiang Cheng murmurs before he too drifts into slumber.

Chapter Text

When morning comes, Jiang Cheng woke up to a feeling of oddity. Was last night something from a dream? He would think of it that way, until he feels the weight of Grim on his chest. The monster is still sound asleep, letting out small murmurs about food once in awhile.

Jiang Cheng lets out a small chuckle as he pulls both himself and Grim out of bed. He turns to see his side of the bed to be empty.

It seems that Jin Ling is already up and ready, no doubt wanting to see this place that Jiang Cheng had never showed to anyone. But with the thought of Jin Ling, he goes to the thought of the Lans and Wei Wuxian there. No doubt Wei Wuxian wants to be in on whatever secrets that Jiang Cheng had hidden from the world and Lan Wangji will be there to glare anyone who looks at Wei Wuxian the wrong way. Should he be worried?

He gives it a few thoughts.

Nah, he doesn’t care.

His friends can protect themselves and if those two try to do anything, Jiang Cheng will kick them both out with force. He’s not going to be lead by the nose according to Wei Wuxian’s whims. Like his former martial brother had said, let the past remain in the past.

“Come on Grim. Wake up or we’ll be late for breakfast.” Jiang Cheng cajoles his sleeping friend. The magical promise of food alone manages to awake the sleeping monster. “Huh? Wha…? Breakfast!” Grim’s sleepy eyes opened wide at the mention of breakfast. He looks up to Jiang Cheng with excitement in his blue cat eyes.

The man chuckles at his dear friend’s antics. Oh how he had missed this.

“Yes Grim. Breakfast. We’re going to Ramshackle Dorm to eat with the others. Also I promised all of you Lotus Soup didn’t I?” Jiang Cheng says.

“SOUP!!! I WANT TO EAT YOUR SOUP JIANG CHENG!!!” Grim yells. The cat’s body now is vibrating with eagerness.

“Calm down you beast! We’ll need to pick up my nephew first before we go.” Jiang Cheng holds Grim tightly in his arms, so that the cat doesn’t run off with impatience. After getting ready the duo began to make their way to the Sword Hall, no doubt that’s where he’ll find his nephew there.

And he was right. There his nephew and also his Second in Command along with the Lan group who seem to be having a stare off. Wonder what that seems to be about? Not that he cares, as he found himself lately of not caring for much for the drama of other people.

Hmmm…maybe he is getting old…

He clears his throat and several heads turn to face him, finally made aware of his presence.

“Jiujiu!” “Jiang Cheng!” “Sect leader Jiang!” Yells Jin Ling, Wei Wuxian and Yu Yejuan simultaneously. Jin Ling and Yu Yejuan both glared at Wei Wuxian, who ignored them to stare at Jiang Cheng.

“Come on A-Ling. We’re going to Ramshackle Dorm. I need to prepare breakfast for everyone there as I did promise to make Lotus Rib soup cause by the Sevens help me if I forgot to deliver my promises last night; I’m going to be pestered to death.” Jiang Cheng says.

“Why don’t you start by explaining who are those guys huh? And why did you call those two men your father? Uncle Jiang is your father, how could you replace him just like that?” Wei Wuxian questions.

Several heads turn to Jiang Cheng, who only shrugs from the question. “It just came naturally I suppose. I was some lost youth who wanted some love and attention and Father and Baba were kind enough to give me that.” He said with casual sarcasm as he along with Grim in his turn to walk away. “You can just join us cousin, I’m sure you’ve been itching to know my secret hiding spot.”

Yu Yejuan looks like she wants to accept but decided not too. Let her cousin keep his secrets, it’s what he deserves.

Wei Wuxian however wants to say but Jiang Cheng beats him to it.

“Of course, you want to meddle in my affairs, far be it from me to stop the Great Wei Wuxian and his illustrious husband. By all means, let it not be said that I am horrible host.” And he keeps on walking, not caring whether or not they follow him.

Grim pokes his head to peek over Jiang Cheng’s shoulder as he stares at the Lan group.

Truth to be told Grim doesn’t know what to feel about those people from last night. The one in black is so noisy and from what Grim could tell, it appears that his Henchman and that have some history together. The one in white however is always glaring at his Henchman, with his hand close to unsheathing his sword. If that man dares, Grim will bring down Hellfire on him! No one touches Grim’s partner!

Not then and certainly not now!

Wei Wuxian turns to his husband, a silent plea to his eyes that he wants to follow Jiang Cheng, and who is Lan Wangji to deny his husband anything. He will keep a close eye on Jiang Wanyin so that he doesn’t do anything to hurt Wei Ying. That man is cruel and twisted and it baffles Lan Wangji how that man continues to hurt Wei Ying even after Wei Ying had sacrificed himself to save Jiang Wanyin. He will never forgive Jiang Wanyin for that.

The journey wasn’t quite silent as Jiang Cheng and Grim were just talking about anything and nothing about their lives, laughing about some inside joke that left the others in confusion.

“It’s so weird to see Sect leader being this casual. Isn’t he always I don’t know? Grumpy and scowling?” Lan Jingyi whispers to Lan Sizhui to which the latter nods subtly as both Lans stare astonishingly at the sight of Sandu Sengshou who is happily chatting with the cat yao in his arms. The cat wiggled out from Jiang Cheng’s arms and climbed up to his head and prattles about weird things that neither Lan Jingyi nor Lan Shizui had heard of.

Magift tournament?

Halloween?

Night Raven College?

And the fact that Sandu Sengshou can keep up with the yao is mind boggling.

“My Jiujiu is just chatting with a friend he hadn’t seen for a long time. I don’t see what the issue is?” Jin Ling glares at Lan Jingyi.

“You have to admit it, Young Mistress. It is strange to see him like that.” Lan Jingyi says.

“Oh? I suppose that seeing my Jiujiu smiling and happy is a bad thing?” Jin Ling sneers. Lan Sizhui holds his shoulder to calm him down.

“That’s not what Jingyi meant, Jin Ling. After what most would say about your Jiujiu, it does seem strange that’s all. But it is not a bad thing to see him smiling and happy. Right Jingyi?” Lan Sizhui turns to Lan Jingyi with a raised eyebrow. Lan Jingyi just shrugs and looked away, not wanting to ignite another fight.

Last time Jin Ling had been very upset by Lan Jingyi’s careless words and despite Lan Sizhui’s attempt to calm both sides down, it didn’t work. For all that his uncle seems stern, Jin Ling is fiercely protective of him and will snap at anyone, even his own friends from badmouthing his Jiujiu. Something which he prefers not to do.

He has seen his father’s attempts of being petty with Sandu Sengshou, with at times outright dismissing and disrespecting the other Sect leader. Lan Sizhui had to play peacekeeper so that the other Sect leader does not take offence and declare war against Gusu Lan.

Not that he doesn’t have faith in the capabilities of his fathers and his clansmen, but is it really worth antagonising someone like Sandu Sengshou?

Since his memories as Wen Yuan began to return, there were some fears that Sandu Sengshou might kill him if the sect leader discovered his identity. According to Wen Ning, it was the Wens lead by Wen Chao who had attacked Lotus Pier which caused the deaths of the late sect leader and his wife, the parents of Jiang Wanyin. To which Wen Ning added that just because Wen Chao had destroyed his sect doesn’t mean that all the Wens are bad.

Lan Sizhui might disagree with Wen Ning on some things. Sect Leader Jiang had every reason to hate the name Wen and all associations of it. Perhaps his actions to lead the Siege of Burial Mounds was too extreme but his anger was understandable. Even more as his memories return and by the stories told by Wen Ning, Sizhui ashamedly had moment of distrusting the Lan Sect for their part of the siege despite being raised and cared by both Zewu-jun, Hanguang-jun and Teacher Lan.

But still, for all the rumours of Sandu Sengshou’s short temper, not once has the man lash out and called for vengeance against Gusu Lan for Hanguang-Jun’s actions against him.

Lan Sizhui really hopes that his clan members doesn’t give Sandu Sengshou a reason to be angry.

After the long walk, the group finally reached the edge of Jiang Cheng’s secret hideout.

Without saying anything, Jiang Cheng and Grim just walked towards the small island and vanished from their eyes.

Wei Wuxian and Jin Ling both called out his name in surprise until Jiang Cheng’s head popped out into existence.

“What are you lot waiting for? A parade? Come on in.” He said before disappearing again.

Feeling a bit confident, Jin Ling began to follow where his Jiujiu went and then followed by his friends and their seniors.

What they saw was a sight to behold.

A building of exotic design lay ahead of them surrounded by tall iron fences and a gate.

“Welcome to Ramshackle Dorm. This was…is the home that I lived at Twisted Wonderland. I’m sure the others are getting ready as we speak.” Jiang Cheng led them towards the door and knock on it.

Deuce and Ace answered the door with wide smiles on their faces.

“Well, well, well buddy. Seems like you’re just in time to make breakfast! And what better meal to eat than the soup that was promised!” Ace say with a shit eating grin.

Deuce hums in agreement. “I’m pretty sure that everyone is already anticipating for the meal.”

Jiang Cheng rolls his eyes.

“Yeah, yeah whatever. Go tell the others to get ready. Also, can you get me Trey, Jamil and Jade to help me in kitchen. Making the Lotus Rib soup alone is a hassle.”

“I can help you Jiang Cheng!” Wei Wuxian gladly volunteers.

“No thank you.” Jiang Cheng rejects quickly and walk inside the dorm.

Coming into the living room, Malleus walks over to Jiang Cheng. The dark haired fae gently grabs Jiang Cheng’s hands and brings up to the fae’s lips, gently kissing his beloved Child of Man. Jiang Cheng smiles at the action though his cheeks seem to redden.

The other cultivators stared in disbelief.

“Good morning, my Beloved Child of Man. I see that you are in good spirits.” The tall fae smiles at Jiang Cheng’s blushing face.

“Good morning to you, Tsunotarou. I’m here to make breakfast and I did promise to make Lotus Soup.”

Malleus’s eyes widen with excitement.

“Ahahahahaha…of course you did promise.” Mallues releases Jiang Cheng’s hands. “Very well, I won’t keep you much longer. We wouldn’t want the others to be starving mad if we delay much longer.”

Jiang Cheng laughs and wraps him arm around Malleus’s waist; his buried into the fae’s chest as he basks into the warmth of his favourite person.

He pulls out from the hug; big smile on his face as he walks to the kitchen.

“Welp, time to make some breakfast.” The Jiang sect leader says and off he goes, with Grimm in tow to where it would to the kitchen.

Mallues turns around and sees the rest of the stunned cultivators. “I suppose I should show to the living room while we wait for the meal to be ready.”

Questions seem to rise from Wei Wuxian and Lan Jingyi as they try to get Mallues to explain to them what was it that they saw just. Though he kept his face cool and calm, he did feel a tinge of irritation from them. Though it will do no good if he were smite them all with a lightning bolt.

Jiang Cheng would not appreciate having to clean the charred floor and remains.

Jin Ling, the nephew that Jiang Cheng has often talked about to Mallues steps forward and faces him.

How brave. So much like his uncle. Malleus can respect that.

He will need to play if he is to get Jiang Cheng’s nephew’s good side.

“I don’t think we were properly acquainted. My name is Jin Rulan, birth name Jin Ling, Sect leader of Lanling Jin and Jiujiu’s nephew. A pleasure to meet you.” Jin Ling greets.

“Mallues Draconia. Prince and Heir of Briar Valley, Descendant of the Witch of Thorns, House Warden of Diasomnia and Bound by Fate to Jiang Cheng. It is also an honour to meet you also.” Malleus returns the greeting.

“Bound by Fate you say? To my Jiujiu?” Jin Ling questions, curiosity in his voice.

Mallues nods. “Why yes, your Leadership. He is someone I hold dearest to my heart and we are bound by the string of Fate to stand with each other.”

“I see. Very well then, if my Jiujiu has chosen someone to stand by his side, far be it from me to stand between both of you. It seems you would know what happens if you hurt my Jiujiu.” Jin Ling stares directly to Malleus’s eyes.

Malleus smiles. All teeth but a hint of teasing. “I like you. Have no fear, I know full well that if I ever hurt my Child of Man, I would struck down by thousands of curses and even then that would not be enough.”

“I guess I can be civil with you, Prince Draconia.” Jin Ling looks around the place.

Malleus chuckles and lends out his hand.

“Would you like me to give you a tour?” The fae offers. The Jin sect leader takes the fae’s hand with confidence.

“I would be delighted.”

Both fae and nephew walk away as Malleus tells to Jin Ling the tales of Ramshackle dorm and its importance to Jin Ling’s Jiujiu.

The other cultivators quickly followed them.