Wei Ying was sitting at a cosy little inn in a town not too far from Yunping City, minding his own business while he drank some of the local liquor.
Or well, he was minding his own business until he overheard a conversation that piqued his interest.
“Have you heard? Ever since he became Chief Cultivator, Hanguang-Jun has been acting very out of character,” said one man. He was sitting at a table in front of Wei Ying with his back to him. All Wei Ying could see was the back of his balding head.
“Huh, how so?” said a second man sitting across from the first.
“Apparently he was very rude to Sect Leader Jiang Wanyin.”
Wei Ying snorted. Shows how well they knew Lan Zhan. Anyone remotely close with either of the two cultivators knew the relationship between them was… complicated, to say the least and Wei Ying was well aware he was the reason for this.
Nevertheless, he tuned back into the conversation.
“I also heard that he and Lan Qiren had a serious falling out,” the man said.
Oh?
“Over what?” the other man asked.
“I’m not sure, but my sources speculate it was over that incorrigible Wei Wuxian.”
Wei Ying sighed.
“Typical. That Wei Wuxian continues to cause trouble. Who knows why Hanguang-Jun defends him so,” the other man said.
Ouch. Seemed like no matter what Wei Ying did, or didn’t do, people were ready to assume the worst.
It had been many full moons ago that Wei Ying and Lan Zhan had gone their own ways. Lan Zhan took the path of becoming Chief Cultivator while Wei Ying had taken Lil Apple and become a wanderer, traveling the lands and helping out local communities by partaking in night hunts. But in all honesty? It sucked not having Lan Zhan by his side. The first few weeks saw Wei Ying turn to his side expectantly after hearing or saying something funny, only for Lan Zhan to not be there. That had been a habit he didn’t even know he had.
Did Lan Zhan miss him in the same way Wei Ying missed him?
The two men had moved on from talking about Lan Zhan, so Wei Ying was no longer interested in eavesdropping. It was getting late anyway and he was pretty tired; he hadn’t had much sleep the night before, due to a night hunt. He stood up, leaving some money at his table for the inn, and retreated to his room for the night.
When he lay down in bed that night, sleep did not come easily. He was too fixated on a certain Lan cultivator. When sleep finally did come, it was not peaceful. Images of Lan Zhan being punished plagued his mind. Lan Zhan’s back was bloodied and bruised, the markings of a whip indented on his back. Only, it wasn’t a regular whip. It was Zidian. Jiang Cheng was the one dealing the punishment.
When Wei Ying awoke, it was with a start. He was covered in sweat. Just what was that? He’d had plenty of nightmares before — some about the past, some about dogs, but never of Jiang Cheng punishing Lan Zhan and so violently too. Maybe he was coming down with something.
In any case, he got ready for the day and headed out. He was feeling famished, having not eaten much the day before so he bought some bread from a merchant outside and was munching away at it, wandering with Lil Apple by his side. Wei Ying didn’t have a set destination in mind; it was the way he enjoyed traveling: having complete freedom to take his time. He was starting to run a little low on money, too, so hopefully on this route he would run into some folks needing help with a night hunt.
It was afternoon by the time he caught sight of a little village in the distance. He was almost there when vivid images of Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng fighting clouded his vision.
Wei Ying fainted.
When he came to, it was to Lil Apple prodding his face with his nose.
What the heck? What was happening?
As he got up he noticed Lil Apple munching on the remainder of the bread he had saved from earlier. “Oi! You were meant to save some for me, Lil Apple!” Wei Ying said. Lil Apple just huffed.
Wei Ying patted Lil Apple’s back before turning him in the opposite direction. “That’s it. We’re heading to Lotus Pier.” Perhaps seeing Jiang Cheng in person will quell whatever’s going on in my mind, Wei Ying thought. It had been a while since he had last visited Lotus Pier and seen his brother. If he timed it right there was the chance that Jiang Yanli and Jin Ling would be visiting too… though that meant seeing the Peacock. He could deal with that, though. It was well worth it if it meant he got to see his beloved Shijie and nephew.
It would take at least a few days to get to Lotus Pier on foot, so Wei Ying took his time. If he was honest, he was a bit apprehensive about seeing his brother. Last time they’d parted it had been on somewhat emotional and awkward grounds brought on by the life-threatening experience from Jin Guangyao. He wasn’t sure where that situation had left them. But in any case, the length of time it took him to travel to Lotus Pier confirmed one thing: the visions of Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were not stopping. If anything, they were getting more frequent. Since his first fainting incident he had managed to identify when one was about to come on as his vision would begin to fade. As such Wei Ying leaned heavily on Lil Apple when he could sense one starting. He had gotten lucky in that most of the visions came while he was asleep and the few times they had come while traveling had been while he and Lil Apple were alone — meaning no one to fuss over him or create a scene out of it.
When he finally arrived at Lotus Pier, he was delighted to see that he had indeed timed it right. Members of the Jin sect were currently visiting, which included the Peacock himself but also Jiang Yanli and Jin Ling.
Of course the first one to greet him, if you would call it that, was Jiang Cheng. “Wei Wuxian! What are you doing here?” His tone was demanding as per usual.
Wei Ying rolled his eyes. “What do you think I’m doing here? Looking for the finest lotus roots? No, I was just nearby and thought I’d see how things are going.” It wasn’t a complete lie, Wei Ying reasoned with himself. “The fact that Shijie and Jin Ling are here is a bonus, of course.”
Jiang Cheng’s eyes narrowed on him, but he didn’t say anything.
“A-Xian!” came Jiang Yanli’s voice. Wei Ying turned and grinned when he saw his Shijie approach him, her arms wide. Wei Ying was quick to accept the hug. Jiang Yanli squeezed him tightly. When they separated she said, “How have you been, A-Xian? We have lots to catch up on.” Her smile was as sincere as it had always been.
“I’ve been well. But how about you and Jin Ling?” Wei Ying replied.
Upon hearing his name, Jin Ling appeared next to Jiang Yanli. Though he was not as forthcoming with the hugs; Wei Ying suspected the Peacock was brainwashing his son to not like his dear old Uncle Wei. (A suspicion that Jiang Yanli had assured him was in no way true last time they met. Though, Wei Ying was not quite convinced it didn’t hold some truth.)
“We’re doing well!” Jiang Yanli said, pulling Jin Ling to her side to give him a squeeze. “Look how big my boy has gotten!”
“Mom…” Jin Ling said, his cheeks a shade of red. “I’m nearly an adult. When are you gonna start treating me like one?”
Wei Ying laughed while Jiang Yanli just turned to Jin Ling and pinched his cheek. “You’ll always be my baby,” she said. Jin Ling crossed his arms, looking away with a pout on his face. He really wasn’t doing himself any favours with such a childish expression, Wei Ying thought. Wei Ying grinned before pulling him in to give him a noogie. Jin Ling protested but Wei Ying managed to coax a laugh out of him before letting him go.
“Let’s get you something to eat, A-Xian,” Jiang Yanli said, gesturing for Wei Ying to follow. “Have you been eating properly?”
Wei Ying was quick to follow. “Of course,” he said.
Jiang Yanli raised an eyebrow at him and then poked him in the ribs. “Doesn’t look like it,” she said but her admonishing tone was belied by the kindness in her eyes.
She led him through to what used to be his old room. “Wait here.” Wei Ying nodded. He took in his surroundings. Lotus Pier was still as he remembered it. Jiang Cheng had done a great job on re-establishing it and seeing to its maintenance over the years. He wasn’t sure who, if anyone, had his room now but judging by its bareness and the fact some dust had collected, he wagered that it was not in use.
Seeing Lotus Pier in all its glory really brought back memories. Some great, others not. He remembered when Jiang Cheng had finally accepted him into the family (all it had taken was Wei Ying’s fear of dogs and a remorseful Jiang Cheng); he remembered the first time he tried his Shijie’s lotus and rib soup (and boy hadn’t that tasted like pure happiness); he remembered mentoring younger sect members on how to use a bow and arrow to shoot down kites; he remembered the first time Madam Yu punished him and then he remembered the last. He’d had some great times but also, because of the Wen sect, some of the most traumatic times too.
He tried not to dwell on it. It wasn’t the time. He was at Lotus Pier at the same time as his Shijie, nephew, and brother — it was a happy occasion! No need for his woes.
As if Jiang Yanli could hear his train of thoughts, she came back through to him with a bowl in her hands. She placed it on the little table he was sitting at. Wei Ying was practically salivating at the aroma.
“Dig in,” Jiang Yanli said.
Wei Ying grinned. “You’re the best, Shijie,” he said. It had been so long since he’d had his Shijie’s lotus and rib soup. Too long, if you asked him. He grabbed the spoon and helped himself to the soup. Familiar flavours greeted his mouth and Wei Ying couldn’t help being transported back to the first time his Shijie had made the soup for him. It was still just as good as it had been then.
Jiang Yanli laughed. “Slow down, A-Xian. It’s not going anywhere.”
Wei Ying paused his eating to smile at her. “But I haven’t had it in so long and it tastes so good.” His Shijie just smiled at him.
“Wei Wuxian. How long do you intend to stay here?” came Jiang Cheng’s authoritative voice.
Wei Ying was so startled he almost choked on his soup. After recovering he looked to Jiang Cheng. “Jeez, Jiang Cheng. Way to scare someone.”
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. “It’s not my fault you’re easily startled. Anyway, Wei Wuxian, answer the question. How long do you intend to stay?”
Wei Ying put his bowl down and looked at Jiang Yanli. She was smiling fondly at the two of them. “How long are you and Jin Ling staying?” Wei Ying asked her.
“We’re leaving the day after tomorrow,” Jiang Yanli replied.
Wei Ying nodded and turned to Jiang Cheng. “The day after tomorrow.”
Jiang Cheng scoffed. “Fine.” Wei Ying sent him his most charming smile and then turned his attention back to the bowl of soup.
When he was finally finished, he noticed Jiang Cheng was still there, looking awkward. Wei Ying shared a glance with his Shijie.
“Come, join us, A-Cheng,” Jiang Yanli said. It was amazing how she could read him. And her smile was so comforting. Wei Ying didn’t think he liked anyone’s smile better… except maybe Lan Zhan’s, but that filled him more with excitement rather than comfort since he saw it so rarely.
Jiang Cheng looked torn, as if the decision was a tough one.
“Come on,” Wei Ying encouraged, patting the floor next to him.
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes but joined them. “I can’t stay for long,” he said.
Wei Ying grinned at his Shijie as Jiang Cheng moved to sit between them. But she and Jiang Cheng started appearing kind of blurry and then Wei Ying’s vision was fading altogether. Not now, he cursed mentally. But before he could fight it his head dropped forward and he was out like a candle.
—
The dream — if it could be called that, perhaps nightmare was more appropriate — started out differently than those he’d had previously. Unlike in previous dreams where it was just random violent scenes featuring Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng that made no sense, this one started out with dialogue.
“Let’s end this right now, Lan Wangji,” Jiang Cheng said, unleashing Zidian as he spoke.
“Yes. Let’s,” Lan Zhan said, his face devoid of expression as he unsheathed Bichen.
End what? Wei Ying wanted to ask, but they either couldn’t see him or were electing to ignore him; he was an outsider, no amount of flailing on his part would change that.
The two started fighting and it was intense. Wei Ying watched on nervously as their weapons clashed. It was a fairly even battle, neither side giving in. Dream versions of Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were equally matched.
“I won’t let you disrespect my brother,” Jiang Cheng said, as they clashed.
Lan Zhan did not reply.
Wei Ying was very confused. Disrespect him? What the heck did Jiang Cheng mean by that? If anyone was disrespectful between him and Lan Zhan it was him, Wei Ying, not Hanguang-Jun.
Nevertheless, Wei Ying watched as they carried on fighting. It seemed endless; neither appeared to be tiring.
Stop being stupid, he wanted to yell. I’m not worth fighting over!
And that’s when he noticed it. Lan Zhan hesitated briefly and looked directly at him. It was only for a fraction of a second but it was long enough that Jiang Cheng was able to capitalise on the moment.
Jiang Cheng managed to disarm Lan Zhan and had him pinned to the ground, Zidian wrapped around his neck.
“What do you think, Lan Wangji? Isn’t it time we end this?”
Lan Zhan just closed his eyes.
No. No! Wei Ying reached out, trying to run up to them but no matter how fast he ran he never got any closer. He tried summoning Chenqing or Suibian, but he couldn’t even do that. Just whose dream was this?
Jiang Cheng smirked and tightened his grip around Zidian. He looked just as menacing as Madam Yu had when she had whipped Wei Ying for the last time. Sparks of purple lightning surrounded the weapon and one look at Jiang Cheng’s face told Wei Ying he was serious. His face was the same as it was when he spoke about getting revenge on the Wen sect. He was just about to end it, his fingers squeezing the whip, when Wei Ying found his voice and screamed out. “No!”
—
Wei Ying awoke with a start. His arm was stretched out, reaching. He looked around. He was in his old bed at Lotus Pier. How had he got there? Then he saw his Shijie and Jiang Cheng looking down at him with concern in their eyes; Shijie’s worry was more obvious than Jiang Cheng, but he had long been aware of Jiang Cheng’s tells; the slight wrinkle in his forehead and the clenching of his jaw.
“No?” Jiang Yanli said, placing her hand on Wei Ying’s knee. Had he yelled that aloud? “Are you okay, A-Xian? You scared us back there, collapsing all of a sudden.”
“Lan Zhan… is Lan Zhan okay?” Wei Ying asked, trying to quell the uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach.
Jiang Yanli and Jiang Cheng shared a look. “I imagine he’s fine. He’s the Chief Cultivator, after all. Why wouldn’t he be?” Jiang Cheng said.
Wei Ying swallowed but his throat was dry. He nodded. “No reason,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck with a little laugh, but it sounded forced, even to his ears.
It was just a dream, or nightmare rather, after all. Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan had no reason to fight. In fact, them fighting would be of great concern to the cultivation world at large, and they were both smarter than to cause unnecessary worry to the sects.
“What was that all about, A-Xian?” Jiang Yanli said, her voice gentle as always but her eyes inquiring.
“Oh nothing. Must have just collapsed from joy at how good Shijie’s soup tastes!” Wei Ying tried, but Jiang Yanli did not look impressed. Nor did Jiang Cheng.
“Wei Wuxian…” Jiang Cheng said, the warning clear in his voice.
Wei Ying mentally cursed. How was he meant to get out of this one?
He sighed. “It was nothing. Just exhaustion from the long journey here and a bad dream. I’m all good now. Sorry to have worried you both,” Wei Ying said.
Jiang Cheng frowned and looked away. “I wasn’t worried.”
The slight rise of one of Jiang Yanli’s eyebrows made her look like she didn’t quite believe Wei Ying but she smiled at him anyway.
“Do you want to talk about it?” she asked, knowingly. Shijie really could read him like a book.
“Talk about what?” Wei Ying said, playing dumb. “I feel better already.” He forced himself to look his Shijie in the eyes and smile.
Jiang Yanli smiled back but there was sympathy in her eyes. “Very well then,” she said. She got up from where she was kneeling and squeezed his shoulder. “We’ll be back later. If you change your mind and would like to talk, come find me. Okay, A-Xian?”
Wei Ying nodded. Jiang Cheng was still eyeing him, poorly disguising his concern.
“I’ll be fine. Thanks for the soup, Shijie,” Wei Ying said.
“Always,” Jiang Yanli replied. She and Jiang Cheng left and Wei Ying was left alone.
One thing was clear: he needed to get to the bottom of these dreams and figure out why he was collapsing. Had someone put a curse on him? Perhaps, but he wasn’t aware of what kind of curse could do what this thing had been doing. How long would this go on? It wasn’t physically painful, save for the few times he’d fallen on the ground, but it was definitely mentally and emotionally taxing — especially the most recent episode. Wei Ying really did not want to witness his brother and best friend harming one another.
He needed to do something. He stood and was leaving his old room when he bumped into someone.
And that’s when the solution presented itself.
“Wei Wuxian, hello!” Nie Huaisang said. “Fancy running into you here.”
Wei Ying’s eyes widened. “Nie Huaisang? What are you doing here? Who else is even here?”
“I could ask you the same question,” Nie Huaisang said, fanning his face with one of his decorative fans. “But actually— “
“This is perfect!” Wei Ying interrupted. He put an arm around Nie Huaisang’s shoulders. “We should have a drink!” A bit of liquor would surely help, Wei Ying reasoned with himself. Or at the very least take the edge off things. And as wary as he was of Nie Huaisang, after all that had happened with Jin Guangyao, he couldn’t deny that the man was easy company.
Nie Huaisang laughed. “You never change, Wei Wuxian.”
Wei Ying grinned. “So is that a yes?”
“Sure.”
—
Wei Ying had never really paid much attention to the design of Lotus Pier. But now, after many drinks with Nie Huaisang, it was perhaps the most fascinating thing to study. Who ever thought of constructing a sect there really was a genius, Wei Ying thought. He and Nie Huaisang were sitting on the docks by the water. Nie Huaisang was ranting about how the decor in the Unclean Realm was not aesthetically pleasing, and how he wanted to change it but he kept getting convinced not to.
“‘Just think of your brother,’ they say, as if I don’t think about him everyday. It’s tedious. You know?” Nie Huaisang said.
Wei Ying just nodded in acknowledgment but turned his attention to the lake. The water looked so smooth and peaceful under the afternoon light. Too peaceful, actually. It was a surprise that Jiang Cheng hadn’t found the two of them and told them off. It wasn’t like they were behaving poorly — Wei Ying had actually considered this beforehand and had Nie Huaisang follow him to a quiet spot he knew of where they would likely be undisturbed or be a disturbance to anyone else. But still, Jiang Cheng was one who could detect Wei Ying’s mischief from miles away.
As if Jiang Cheng could hear exactly what Wei Ying was thinking, Wei Ying heard footsteps nearing and an all too familiar scoff.
“Why am I not surprised?” Jiang Cheng said, looking down at the two of them. Wei Ying grinned and offered him the bottle of liquor. Jiang Cheng didn’t acknowledge the movement and instead turned to look at Nie Huaisang. “I expect this sneaking off to drink from Wei Wuxian, but you too, Sect Leader?”
“Ah, Jiang Cheng! You misunderstand. Nie Huaisang and I had important business to discuss,” Wei Ying said.
“I wasn’t speaking to you, Wei Wuxian. Besides, as if I would believe such a tale. However, I am surprised you’re not hassling the Chief Cultivator.”
Wei Ying’s eyes went wide. “Lan Zhan’s here!?” He said and looked between Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng; they both nodded. “Why didn’t anyone tell me sooner?”
“I tried, but you interrupted me,” Nie Huaisang said.
Wei Ying smiled sheepishly. “My bad then. Anyway, this has been fine catching up Nie Huaisang, but I really have to see Lan Zhan!”
Nie Huaisang nodded. “Suppose I should get back to my responsibilities too.”
“See you around!” Wei Ying said, scrambling to his feet. He paused once he was standing and turned to Jiang Cheng. “Where is he exactly?” he asked.
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. “Should be finishing up in the meeting room.”
Wei Ying nodded. “Thanks.” And he ran as fast as he could back along the pier and towards the meeting room. He didn’t need to go far until he saw the familiar Lan sect robes in the distance and Lan Zhan to go with them.
Wei Ying’s eyes lit up. “Lan Zhan!” he called and rushed forward. But he was going so fast that he tripped over a crack in the pier and was sent crashing forward. Lan Zhan got to him before he could fall though, and caught him in his arms.
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said in lieu of hello. His face was very close to Lan Zhan’s. Up close he could see just how golden Lan Zhan’s eyes were; they were kind of mesmerising.
He then scrambled to get out of Lan Zhan’s hold, despite how comfortable it felt. “Sorry,” Wei Ying said. “I forgot that you don’t like touching.”
“If it is Wei Ying, I do not mind,” Lan Zhan said.
And wow, that sure was a way to make Wei Ying’s heart race. He was sure his face was as red as his hair ribbon. He had not forgotten how much he adored Lan Zhan — the time spent apart had been difficult and proof of that. He had, however, forgotten just how much Lan Zhan’s physical presence affected him. The man was beautiful, but there was far more than that to it. He was his soulmate (they’d both agreed on that); someone that he wanted to be with for life. Of course his physical presence would affect him.
“Lan Zhan, I’ve missed you so much,” Wei Ying said.
And was that a smile? It was so difficult to be sure when it came to Lan Zhan but Wei Ying liked to think he had mastered the art over their experiences together.
“And I, you, Wei Ying,” Lan Zhan said. And yes, that was definitely a smile.
It was only then that he realised they had an audience. Some younger Gusu Lan sect members were behind Lan Zhan. Many wore surprised expressions. He recognised Lan Sizhui as one of the few who remained unsurprised by their interactions. Jin Ling was also standing next to Lan Sizhui, standing out in his yellow Lanling Jin sect robes.
“A-Yuan! Wow, look at you!” Wei Ying said. He tilted his head to the side slightly and raised an eyebrow. “Did you grow even taller? You’re gonna make me feel short soon!”
Lan Sizhui smiled. “Senior Wei. I’m so glad to see you’re doing well!”
Lan Zhan stepped to the side as Lan Sizhui ran up to Wei Ying and gave him a hug.
Wei Ying smiled. Then there was a scoff. It was Jin Ling. “What’s wrong, Jin Ling? Do you want a hug too?”
Jin Ling turned bright red in the face. “No!”
“You sure?” Wei Ying said.
“Y-yes,” Jin Lin said, turning his face away.
But it was too late. Wei Ying and Lan Sizhui teamed up and together pulled him in for a hug. It was only a matter of seconds until Jin Ling relented and hugged them back.
When they separated, Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui were smiling at one another. A few of the other Gusu Lan sect members evidently felt left out, though, and hug-tackled the two of them. Wei Ying just laughed and turned to Lan Zhan. “How long are you here for?”
“We leave in a few days,” Lan Zhan replied.
Wei Ying’s eyes lit up. “We should catch up.” The sparkle left his eyes when realisation dawned on him. “Ah, but you probably have important Chief Cultivator business here, right? Actually, why even is everyone here? First Shijie and her Peacock husband and Jin Ling, then Nie Huaisang, and now you and the young Gusu Lan sect members? What is going on?”
“Sect Leader Jiang invited the sects to a night hunt competition,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying’s eyes widened. “No one tells me anything! When is it?”
“Tonight.”
Wei Ying grinned. “This is perfect, Lan Zhan! We can compete together, like the old days.”
Lan Zhan shook his head. “I am only spectating tonight, unfortunately.”
“Ah, of course. It wouldn’t be fair to have the Chief Cultivator involved.” Wei Ying sighed but perked back up. “But I guess it gives the younger generations a chance to shine, too. I’ll watch with you!” he said.
“That would be most welcome,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying smiled. He was so happy he felt like he could burst open at any time. Not only had he gotten to see his brother, Shijie and nephew — as well as eat Shijie’s lotus and rib soup — but he also had been able to see Lan Zhan and Lan Sizhui. What a day. And to top it off, he would be spectating the night hunt competition with Lan Zhan.
—
Shortly after Wei Ying had been informed of the night hunt competition, Yunmeng Jiang sect members rounded everyone up to lead them to the location for the event. The event itself involved travelling a fair bit over the lake water and to land that was abundant with trees and bushes — some travelled by sword, but Wei Ying travelled by boat with his Shijie (Lan Zhan had offered to fly with him, but Wei Ying didn’t want to risk fainting on Lan Zhan should whatever he was cursed with knock him out). The Jiang members had done a good job of setting up for the night; in the small clearing there was a large purple canopy for esteemed spectators to sit under; there were multiple colourful tables set up, each indicative of a different sect; and, to Wei Ying’s delight, there was tea instead of liquor on the Gusu Lan sect table. He still remembered that awful time Jin whatever-his-name-was tried to shame and force Lan Zhan into drinking alcohol. Wei Ying was grateful to his brother, and by extension the Yunmeng Jiang sect, for not being anything like that.
By the time Wei Ying and the others who travelled by boat had arrived, the competitors were lined up and grouped by sect. Wei Ying made his way over to Lan Zhan and sat next to him.
“Wei Wuxian…” Jiang Cheng started.
Wei Ying turned to face him. “Yeah?” He then saw Shijie pull on Jiang Cheng’s sleeve. Jiang Cheng turned to her and she just shook her head. Jiang Cheng exhaled loudly before turning back to Wei Ying.
“Nothing,” he said.
Wei Ying smiled and turned his attention to Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan sat properly, his posture good as he took a sip of tea. It was nice watching him. Wei Ying had missed this — missed him — so much. Lan Zhan, as if hearing his thoughts, turned to him. “Are you not comfortable?” he asked.
Wei Ying laughed. “You’ve got it all wrong, Lan Zhan. I am so comfortable right now,” he said just as a breeze swept by causing Wei Ying to shiver. “Although, I am a bit cold. Do you mind if I just—” He gestured to the space between them.
“I do not mind,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying took the opportunity to shuffle closer to Lan Zhan. They were close enough that their knees were touching, but not close enough to be deemed inappropriate. Afterall, Wei Ying didn’t want to be responsible for ruining the Chief Cultivator’s reputation. Well, maybe he did, a little. He wanted Lan Zhan any way he could have him, reputation be damned.
The night hunt commenced after Jiang Cheng had said a few words to everyone and wished the competitors good luck. Wei Ying didn’t know who the favourites of the new generation were, but he was cheering for Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui regardless.
Most night hunts were difficult to spectate in that the competitors had to venture far into the trees to be most effective. Tonight was no different. Once the competitors set off it was clear that they wouldn’t be able to see much.
Wei Ying leaned into Lan Zhan with his shoulder. “Hey, Lan Zhan. How do you think A-Yuan will do?”
“I imagine he will do just fine,” Lan Zhan said.
“With your teaching? Definitely,” Wei Ying said, admiring how Lan Zhan’s ears turned red under the praise.
Wei Ying sighed. “Life is boring without you, Lan Zhan.” He leaned in close and whispered, “Forget your duties and run away with me.”
Lan Zhan turned to Wei Ying and appeared as impassive as ever — to anyone that wasn’t Wei Ying. But Wei Ying had long been able to spot Lan Zhan’s tells. The ever so slight widening of his eyes and a clenched jaw as if he was physically restraining himself from emoting.
“Wei Ying,” Lan Zhan said. Just saying Wei Ying’s name alone, Wei Ying could hear the conflict in his voice.
“I know, I know. I’m only joking. I wouldn’t ask you to do that,” Wei Ying reassured him. “You’re too important. The cultivational world needs you.” But I need you, too, was left unsaid.
“Wei Ying, you are equally important,” Lan Zhan replied, looking Wei Ying right in the eyes.
That caused Wei Ying to chuckle. “We both know that’s not true.”
There was a crease in Lan Zhan’s forehead. He looked ready to argue back but Wei Ying just shook his head and placed a hand on Lan Zhan’s knee. “Anyway,” Wei Ying started, changing the topic. “I heard a rumour that you and Lan Qiren had a falling out. Is this true?”
Lan Zhan nodded. “We had some conflict over our… teaching methods when it comes to the students,” he said.
“Oh?”
“It is fine, though.”
Wei Ying wanted to ask more but got the impression Lan Zhan wouldn’t say much— particularly given where they were, so he dropped the topic.
The evening carried on with Wei Ying talking Lan Zhan’s ear off, with Lan Zhan’s occasional nods or sounds of acknowledgement. He talked about anything and everything, as he usually did when he was with Lan Zhan.
As dawn approached, competitors made their way back to the starting area. Once everyone was back the winners were announced. It turned out to be a three-way tie between Jin Ling, Lan Sizhui, and a Yunmeng Jiang sect student who Wei Ying didn’t recognise. Wei Ying was full of pride for all three of the winners, for while Lan Sizhui was like a son to him, and Jin Ling was his nephew, the Yunmeng Jiang sect student was an indicator of just how great a job Jiang Cheng was doing re-establishing his sect.
When Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling looked in his direction, Wei Ying waved. “Lan Zhan, you wave too,” he said, bumping his shoulder into Lan Zhan’s. Lan Zhan merely nodded in acknowledgment at the two students, though, which Wei Ying had known to expect. However, it didn’t matter, as Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling were clearly thrilled to have his and Lan Zhan’s attention. The two students turned to one another with matching grins. No doubt they would spend the day celebrating their victory.
As things wrapped up, Lan Zhan once again offered to carry Wei Ying back to Lotus Pier on his sword, but Wei Ying declined. “I want to keep Shijie company since she’s stuck with the Peacock’s mother,” Wei Ying said. Lan Zhan accepted the excuse and said he would meet up with him later, once they had rested. Wei Ying doubted Lan Zhan would get any rest, though. The man didn’t like to sleep outside of the Gusu Lan sect schedule.
Once back at Lotus Pier, Wei Ying wished his Shijie a good sleep and sought permission from Jiang Cheng to stay in his old room. He figured it would be okay since they had moved him there earlier when he had fainted, but he wanted to make sure.
Jiang Cheng was the happiest he had seen him in a long time. A night hunt victory for his sect must have felt rewarding; a reflection of all the hard work he had put in since he had been forced to take control so early in life. He even smiled when Wei Ying approached him. It was great but a tad unsettling since it had been so long since Wei Ying had seen him wear such a genuine expression of happiness. Nevertheless, his joy was contagious and Wei Ying smiled back.
“I’m gonna get some rest. Just wanted to ask if I could stay in my old room?” Wei Ying asked, feeling somewhat nervous about asking.
“Yeah, that’s fine. But… uh,” Jiang Cheng said. He looked like he was considering his next words very carefully. “You’re welcome here anytime, okay?”
Wei Ying wanted to reply with something cheeky, but thought better of it. This was like the olive branch Wei Ying had hoped for. Maybe they couldn’t return to the brothers they used to be, but perhaps they could forge something new. It would never be the same; tragedy had happened, people and sects had changed, but if they took away that comparison to old days, maybe they could develop something not necessarily better but different.
“Thanks, Jiang Cheng,” Wei Ying said, smiling. “I’ll be sure to visit more often. Congratulations on the victory.”
“Thanks. Sleep well, Wei Wuxian,” Jiang Cheng said. Wei Ying nodded and left to go do exactly that.
Only, he did not sleep well and he was annoyed that he thought he would. Because, of course, that was when the unwanted dreams came back to haunt him.
—
The dream started out different to the ones he’d been having. In previous dreams Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan had just existed in the void. In this dream there was an actual location involved. And that location was the entrance of the Cloud Recesses.
It appeared as if Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were having a very intense staring contest, just watching one another from afar. Why hadn’t they started fighting yet? Not that Wei Ying wanted that, but it just was what he had come to expect from these dreams by now.
It was then that Jiang Cheng released Zidian, giving it a test whip as he walked over to Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan unsheathed Bichen and also walked to meet Jiang Cheng in the middle. A little white bunny hopped by Wei Ying’s feet, so naturally he picked it up and absentmindedly started petting it. He was always powerless in these dreams but if he could at least protect the little bunny from the inevitable violence that was about to unfold, then maybe he wouldn’t feel so useless.
Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were now only separated by a couple of metres, both armed and ready to fight.
“It’s time for you to acknowledge that Wei Wuxian will never be good enough for you,” Jiang Cheng said.
Wei Ying gaped. Huh?
Lan Zhan nodded. “I know that,” he said.
What?
Jiang Cheng tightened his grip on Zidian. “Yet you still challenge me?”
“Yes. It is true. I will never love Wei Ying, but that does not mean he deserves to be imprisoned,” Lan Zhan said, his face not giving anything away.
Just what the hell was going on in this dream scenario? Not only was Wei Ying getting roasted and imprisoned by his brother but his heart broken by Lan Zhan too? This was wild and he did not like it one bit.
But it was the I will never love Wei Ying that really stung. And the fact that Lan Zhan was still defending Wei Ying in this make-belief scenario made it even worse. At least if Lan Zhan had been acting completely out of character he could write the entire thing off. But as it was, he was his usual Lan Zhan self. Had Wei Ying been deluding himself all this time into thinking Lan Zhan actually had feelings for him? Maybe he had completely misread all their experiences together. He gazed down at the bunny in his hands, it was a welcome distraction. The only positive part of this entire episode.
Clanging sounds interrupted his train of thoughts. He looked up to see Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng fighting. Jiang Cheng had stowed Zidian in its ring form and was fighting sword to sword, his Sandu against Lan Zhan’s Bichen. In this dream episode, the two were equally matched. But it was somewhat eerie experiencing this level of violence in the usually peaceful Cloud Recesses. The only noise being that of swords clashing and the occasional grunt by Jiang Cheng.
Wei Ying was growing real tired of these dreams. He really needed to figure out what kind of curse, or thing, this was and resolve it soon. These dreams were too emotionally draining— this one especially.
The bunny chose then to jump out of Wei Ying’s hands and hop towards the fight. Wei Ying cursed and ran forward chasing after the bunny but it was quick and agile and managed to dodge his attempts to pick it back up. After launching himself at the bunny and landing flat on his front in failure, he looked up to see the bunny was right between Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng. And by the looks of things, they hadn’t seen it.
It may have just been a dream bunny, but it was Wei Ying’s only way of not feeling so powerless in these dreams especially after having failed to summon Chenqing in one of his earlier dream episodes. It was meant to be his dream, but the failure to summon any weapon had ultimately been a factor that had encouraged the idea that this was a curse.
Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng were about to clash once again but the bunny was in between them, none the wiser. Scrambling to his feet, Wei Ying launched himself forward, diving in between the fighters and sheltering the small bunny. Both swords were aimed in his direction. They were going to pierce him — it was unavoidable.
He screwed his eyes shut but not before seeing the slight widening of Lan Zhan’s eyes.
—
Wei Ying woke up, his eyes wide, and sat up straight on his bed. He put a hand to his forehead. He was sweating and felt decidedly gross. A bath was in order.
As he sat in the bath he watched as the sunlight streamed in through the window. Lan Zhan would definitely be awake. Probably didn’t even sleep since it was getting light as they finished up at the night hunt competition. Lan Zhan. Did Wei Ying even want to see him after that dream? Well, of course he did. But would Lan Zhan want to see him?
He smacked his forehead. It was just a dream, he told himself. It wasn’t the real Lan Zhan! He shook his head, as if that would clear the negative thoughts, and finished up washing himself.
Once clean, dressed, and ready to face the day, Wei Ying left the room and headed out of Lotus Pier to the docks out front. He wasn’t sure where Lan Zhan had stayed last night — hadn’t even thought to ask, but it was fine because he could already see a group of white robed cultivators in the distance.
The group was standing by a street vendor who Wei Ying knew to sell the juiciest apples. Maybe he would buy one. But as he caught up to them, he had this sudden feeling of inadequacy overwhelm him.
Wei Ying will never be good enough for you.
I know.
Lan Zhan spotted him before he could turn back though. “Wei Ying,” he greeted.
“Ah, hi Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying said, a bit overzealous. He was fidgeting with the sleeves of his robes and hesitated moving closer.
As usual, Lan Zhan looked ever so handsome and perfect. His long hair was neatly arranged in its usual style and the sunlight hit his face in all the right ways. He didn’t even have bags under his eyes, and Wei Ying was almost certain he wouldn’t have slept much, if at all.
Lan Zhan, on the other hand, did not hesitate in approaching Wei Ying. Before he did, though, he told the group of Gusu Lan sect cultivators to go ahead without him — he would catch up.
“Did you sleep well?” Lan Zhan asked.
Wei Ying’s eyes widened for a fraction of a second, thinking that Lan Zhan had completely figured him out. But that was impossible. He regained his composure and nodded. “Yeah, I did. What about you, Lan Zhan? Did you even sleep?” Wei Ying said with a cheeky smile.
“I will rest tonight,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying frowned. “Lan Zhan, you need to rest too, you know.”
“It is fine. As a spectator, I did not exhaust myself at the night hunt.”
Wei Ying folded his arms and sighed. “Alright. I’ll take your word for it, Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said. He looked behind Lan Zhan and could see the Gusu Lan sect students making their way towards the entrance of Lotus Pier. “What’s the plan for today?”
“The students will be attending a training seminar at Lotus Pier,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying’s eyebrows shot up in interest. “Being run by Jiang Cheng? I thought they’d all be celebrating the night hunt.”
Lan Zhan nodded. “They will likely celebrate this evening.”
“So…” Wei Ying said, biting his lip and looking off to the side. “Where does that leave you?”
“I am going to help supervise,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying smirked. “Do you really think if any students are going to need supervision, it’ll be yours? Live a little, Lan Zhan! You probably haven’t had a proper break in a long time. Let’s do something fun. Besides, you really think Jiang Cheng won’t be able to manage the students? If anyone can get those students to behave, it’s him.”
Lan Zhan took a few moments to think about it but then nodded. “Okay. Let me first compose a message to Sect Leader Jiang.” He pulled out of his robe sleeves a small piece of paper, brush, and ink.
“Oh! Let me!” Wei Ying said. If it came from him then at least Lan Zhan wouldn’t be blamed.
Lan Zhan handed him the writing instruments and Wei Ying started writing. He shielded the paper from Lan Zhan as he tried to peer over the top to see what he was writing.
“Now, now. Don’t you trust me, Lan Zhan?” Wei Ying said.
“Wei Ying, you know I trust you,” Lan Zhan said. Even he couldn’t disguise the slight disapproval in his voice.
Wei Ying grinned. “I know. But it’s nice hearing it from you every now and again.” He looked down at the paper and was happy with his work.
I’ve stolen Lan Zhan for the day. Sorry!
-WWX
He rolled it up and ran to catch up to Lan Sizhui before he entered Lotus Pier. He was speaking with Jin Ling in what appeared to be a very animated conversation.
“A-Yuan,” Wei Ying called out. Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling stopped walking and turned to see Wei Ying running towards them. When he was finally in reach, Wei Ying said, “Can you please deliver this to Jiang Cheng?”
Lan Sizhui took the rolled up piece of paper from Wei Ying. “Sure.”
“I’m stealing Lan Zhan for the day,” Wei Ying said.
“Surprise, surprise,” Jin Ling said, the sarcasm dripping from his voice.
Wei Ying ruffled Jin Ling’s hair. “When did you become so cheeky, huh?”
Jin Ling whacked Wei Ying’s hands away and desperately tried to tidy his hair. “Why must you be like this, Uncle!?” he said.
Wei Ying grinned. “Because I love you so much,” he said and attempted to mess up Jin Ling’s hair again. Jin Ling was too quick for him this time and dodged his hands. He smiled smugly at a pouting Wei Ying. “We’re going, Uncle,” he said and grabbed Lan Sizhui by the wrist.
“We’ll deliver your letter, Senior Wei,” Lan Sizhui assured him as Jin Ling pulled him away and through the entrance of Lotus Pier. Wei Ying just grinned as he watched them go.
“So,” Wei Ying said, turning to see Lan Zhan had caught up to him. “What would you like to do?”
“I am happy to let Wei Ying decide,” Lan Zhan said.
“There’s nothing you can think of that you would like to do?”
“I am doing it already,” Lan Zhan said.
Wei Ying raised an eyebrow. “And that would be?”
“Catching up with you.”
Wei Ying felt his face heat up in a matter of seconds. He was sure his face looked as red as those apples the vendor was selling. “Lan Zhan! You can’t just come out with stuff like that,” Wei Ying said, covering his face with his hands. He peered through his fingers at Lan Zhan and swore he could see him smiling, subtle but still there. (Though it could’ve just been his hopeful imagination.)
After a few moments, when it appeared Lan Zhan had nothing to respond with, Wei Ying removed his hands from his face. “Okay. First thing on the agenda: food!”
“Have you not eaten?” Lan Zhan asked, his eyebrows slightly pinched.
“Not yet! But I saw you and your students standing by the vendor who sells delicious apples, so it put me in the mood for one,” Wei Ying explained. He grabbed hold of Lan Zhan’s hand and pulled him along to said apple vendor.
“Two of your finest apples, please!” Wei Ying said.
“Of course,” said the apple vendor. He then looked to the left of Wei Ying and did a double take. “Only the finest for you and the Chief Cultivator!” He picked two apples from his supply and handed them over. Lan Zhan reached across to pay for them but Wei Ying smacked his hand away and paid for them himself. Lan Zhan had constantly treated him in their travels before he became Chief Cultivator. It was only fair Wei Ying returned the favour.
“Let me pay for once, Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said.
The apple vendor laughed. “Ah, my wife used to do the same,” he said, eyeing Lan Zhan. “Said I paid too often and that she should treat us, even though she knew I had more money.”
Lan Zhan was quiet for a moment and then, “How did you get her to stop?” he asked.
“I married her, of course!” the apple vendor said, grinning. “Then what was mine became hers and vice versa.”
Wei Ying laughed nervously. That hit a little too close to home. He would marry Lan Zhan in a heartbeat, but unfortunately not even Lan Zhan’s kindness for Wei Ying could extend that far. No, that was just a fantasy tucked away deep inside Wei Ying’s head.
I will never love Wei Ying. Because even though it had just been a dream, it was true. Wasn’t it?
Wei Ying needed to get out of his own head. He smiled at the apple vendor. “Thanks. We’ll just be going now,” he said and pulled Lan Zhan along with him. Once they were far enough away from the apple vendor, Wei Ying offered Lan Zhan an apple. “Ha. That guy sure was funny. Right, Lan Zhan?” Wei Ying said.
Lan Zhan hummed in agreement. The two of them carried on walking along the docks, eating their apples. Occasionally, Wei Ying would stop and point things out to Lan Zhan. There was the artist who specialised in drawing animals, bunnies in particularly (Wei Ying promised to buy one for Lan Zhan when he had more money). There was the vendor who sold children’s toys, and lotus was growing in abundance in the lake. There was plenty to see and Wei Ying was having a great time. He hoped Lan Zhan was too.
It was as if the world was out to get him, though. Because as they were walking back to the entrance of Lotus Pier later that afternoon, Wei Ying felt his vision fading. The telltale signs of the curse were manifesting. If he was fast enough maybe he could avoid Lan Zhan witnessing him succumbing to the curse.
“Lan Zhan, I—” was all Wei Ying got out before he fainted.
The dream was, unsurprisingly, just like the others. Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were fighting with their swords. This time, though, Wei Ying was spared any dialogue or even a setting. They were back in the void.
Wei Ying sighed and just sat down and watched for what felt like a long time. Why had he been cursed so? If only he could figure it out but the only leads he had were Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan. As complicated as his relationship with his brother was, he knew Jiang Cheng would never curse him like this. And Lan Zhan? He would never.
“Wei Ying,” came Lan Zhan’s voice. But it wasn’t the Lan Zhan fighting. Wei Ying couldn’t source where the voice came from.
“Wei Ying! Wake up.”
Lan Zhan’s voice was all around him and the worry in his tone was clear.
Gradually, the void, along with Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng, started to fade as brightness seeped through. It was so bright it was making him squint until it became unbearable and he had to look away.
Wei Ying opened his eyes.
He was greeted by Lan Zhan’s face looking down at him.
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said. He looked around and saw that he was in his old bedroom at Lotus Pier. How long had he been out of it? Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli were there too. Both looked concerned, though they showed it in very different ways. Jiang Cheng with his frowns and Shijie with her lip biting.
Lan Zhan too was very expressive — but he always was when something went amiss with Wei Ying. His eyebrows were pinched.
“Wei Ying. You’re back,” Lan Zhan said, the relief clear in his voice.
Wei Ying smiled. “How long was I out for?”
“About two hours,” Shijie said. “Lan Wangji carried you here immediately.”
How was he going to explain this one?
Jiang Cheng cleared his throat. “I can already see the gears turning in your head of how you’re going to get out of explaining this, but we’ve already informed Lan Zhan that this isn’t the first time this has happened,” Jiang Cheng said, staring Wei Ying straight in the eyes. “Wei Wuxian. It’s time you told us the truth.”
Fuck.
Wei Ying laughed, but it was mirthless. “How can I tell you when I don’t even know what it is?” he said.
Lan Zhan nodded. “We will figure it out. Your Shijie mentioned you had a bad dream last time. Let us start there.”
Wei Ying sighed. He wasn’t getting out of this one. But maybe this was a good thing. Maybe they could find a cure for whatever curse this was. That was if they could figure out what the curse even was, though.
“It’s usually just you and Jiang Cheng fighting,” Wei Ying said. “It doesn’t make sense. I’m powerless in them — can’t even use Chenqing in my own dreams! It’s as if I’ve been cursed.”
“Usually? Has this been happening a lot?” Lan Zhan said.
“Yeah. But it only started about a week ago — give or take a few days,” Wei Ying said.
Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng shared a very long look. It was starting to make Wei Ying feel nervous. Were they going to re-enact his nightmares? That was the last thing he wanted.
“We need to take you to my Uncle,” Lan Zhan said finally.
Wei Ying’s eyes widened and he gripped the blanket underneath his fingertips. “Your Uncle? Lan Qiren? He’s the last person I need to see! He’ll probably just lecture me about how I deserved to be cursed.”
Lan Zhan shook his head. “No. This is his fault,” he said, his fists clenched.
Wei Ying tilted his head, completely lost. “What?”
Lan Zhan stood. “I will explain on the way there. Wrap up. It is cooling down outside.” He turned to Jiang Cheng. “Please let my students know that I will not be back until later.”
Jiang Cheng nodded. “Sure. But don’t you need me to come with you?”
Lan Zhan shook his head. “No. You are needed here. We will be fine.”
Jiang Yanli came to Wei Ying’s side bearing an outer robe for Wei Ying to wear. “Up you get,” she said. In his dazed state, Wei Ying complied and once standing put on the outer robe.
“Let us go,” Lan Zhan said.
“I’m not sure about this,” Wei Ying said, coming to his senses. “I really don’t want to deal with your uncle.”
“It is the only way.”
Jiang Cheng patted Wei Ying firmly on the shoulder. “You’re going,” he said with a tone that left no room for argument.
“Please go, A-Xian. I’m sure it will solve everything,” Jiang Yanli said.
He was always weak to his Shijie’s requests and, truthfully, he wanted to get this mess sorted out anyway. They started walking to the entrance of Lotus Pier. “Fine. But if things go pear-shaped none of you are entitled to my belongings.”
Jiang Yanli laughed while Jiang Cheng scoffed. “As if you have anything to take,” he said.
“You’ll regret saying that, Jiang Cheng. Trust me,” Wei Ying said.
“You big baby. You’re gonna be fine,” Jiang Cheng said. Wei Ying mimicked Jiang Cheng’s words in a mocking voice.
But before Jiang Cheng could berate him, Lan Zhan scooped up Wei Ying as if he was light as a feather. One arm was carrying him under his legs, the other supporting his back. He proceeded to carry Wei Ying onto Bichen with him.
“We will leave now,” Lan Zhan said.
“Good luck, A-Xian,” Jiang Yanli said.
“You know I can stand, right?” Wei Ying said, but he was ignored.
“Bye, Wei Wuxian,” Jiang Cheng said.
“Bye,” Wei Ying called out and waved as he and Lan Zhan ascended to the sky on Lan Zhan’s sword and they were off on their way to the Cloud Recesses.
The evening air came with a strong chill; Wei Ying was grateful to Shijie for the extra outer robe and also for being held so closely to Lan Zhan who was hot like a furnace.
“Time to explain, Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said. He stopped fidgeting with the collar of Lan Zhan’s robe and peered up at him. His eyelashes looked so long from this angle. Lan Zhan stood out. He was stunning, even in the dark of the night.
“Uncle has unintentionally cursed you,” Lan Zhan said.
Well, at least that was succinct. But he needed to hear the details.
“Uh. That’s a lot to take in. You should probably start explaining,” Wei Ying said.
So Lan Zhan started explaining and it went like this: the Gusu Lan sect had hosted a series of lectures for students from all the sects. Jiang Cheng had sent a few students to attend. One of the Yunmeng Jiang sect students had thought it would be fun to test out a curse on Lan Sizhui. Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan were both contacted, seeing as it involved their respective sects, and met up with Lan Qiren to discuss the incident.
“The curse is just a rumour. But even if it did exist, the Jiang sect student’s golden core is not strong enough for it to work,” Lan Qiren had said to both Jiang Cheng and Lan Zhan. The three of them were in one of the classrooms, though it was empty of students.
“How do you know it does not work?” Lan Zhan asked.
“Easy. I tried it on that incorrigible Wei Wuxian many years ago when he was a student here and it did nothing.”
Lan Zhan’s eyes widened a fraction. “Uncle! Why would you try to curse Wei Ying?” he said, anger seeping into his tone.
“Yeah. Explain. What even is this curse?” Jiang Cheng said, his arms folded.
“Yes, yes. Allow me to explain. It is not so much a curse as it is a disciplinary tool. Well, it would be considered that if it actually worked, but it is just a tale. What it is supposed to do is interrupt a student’s daydreaming by making them see, or imagine, unpleasant images. Now, I know it did not work on Wei Wuxian because I experienced no consequences. Almost every curse comes bearing some type of burden for the person casting it; this one is no different.”
“Uncle. I can not believe you would stoop to such lows,” Lan Zhan said.
“I can,” Jiang Cheng said. Lan Zhan shot him a look of disapproval. “What? We both know he wasn’t the easiest student to look after. It doesn’t justify Lan Qiren’s behaviour, but it does explain it.”
“I am not entirely convinced it did not work,” Lan Zhan said.
Lan Qiren sighed. “Let me prove it to you. I will target you with this supposed curse. It will not work, but even if it were to, there is a simple cure.”
Jiang Cheng gaped. “What? You can’t be serious!” He looked between Lan Zhan and Lan Qiren.
Lan Zhan nodded. “If it is as you say it is, then there will be no problem.”
Lan Qiren nodded before summoning his guqin onto the table and sitting down.
“It is a song?” Lan Zhan asked.
Lan Qiren nodded and gestured for Lan Zhan to sit in front of him. “I tried playing it to an item of Wei Wuxian’s, not Wei Wuxian himself,” Lan Qiren explained.
“Hold up,” Jiang Cheng said. “I thought you said one of my students did this? None of my students play the guqin. That’s a Gusu Lan sect specialty.”
“Correct. But it appears one of your students likes the flute. I can only imagine who has influenced that,” Lan Qiren said. “As for the song itself, I haven’t a clue how they found that. I suggest you ask them later.”
Jiang Cheng nodded.
“I am going to direct this just at you, Wangji. Sect Leader Jiang, please step to the side,” Lan Qiren said. Jiang Cheng complied while Lan Zhan sat opposite Lan Qiren at the table.
Lan Qiren started playing the song. It was a rather simple song with a pleasant melody. It wouldn’t be a hard one for a novice to play. Lan Qiren played it with much grace, until he got to the final few notes in which he used a little more force.
As Lan Qiren hit the final note, Jiang Cheng and Lan Qiren watched for a change in Lan Zhan, but nothing happened. That was until a few moments later. Lan Qiren gasped and pointed as a small blue light hovered over Lan Zhan’s head but then bounced off to hover over Jiang Cheng’s, before it finally settled on a bunny illustration created and signed by Wei Ying. The light turned red and the illustration just absorbed it.
“Well. That has not happened before,” Lan Qiren said. “Do you feel any different?” Lan Zhan shook his head. Lan Qiren continued, “I also bear no consequence. Therefore it is a dud.”
Jiang Cheng cleared his throat. “I think it’s a bit early to write it off like that. We did just see a light be absorbed into that illustration.”
“Do not be silly. I have proven that it is a dud of a song and therefore inconsequential,” Lan Qiren said, standing up and putting away his guqin. “But I do ask you to have a word with your student. Find out how they learned about that song and ensure he does not play any more songs that carry harmful intentions, accident or not.”
And that was it.
Wei Ying gaped. “What on earth?” he asked. That explanation was a lot to take in. There was a slight unwelcome feeling in his throat. He had missed out on so much. Lan Zhan and Jiang Cheng’s worlds still went on, regardless of his presence. It unsettled him.
“That is why Uncle and I fell out. I was mad at him for attempting to ‘discipline’ you with that song many years ago,” Lan Zhan said. “I did not think much of it at the time when I really should have, but I think when the curse hit your bunny illustration, it transferred to you, Wei Ying. This would have been around the same time as you started experiencing the effects.”
Wei Ying huffed. “Why am I not surprised this is not the first time your Uncle has attempted this. In any case, I hope Jiang Cheng had a word with the student. Did you check to see if A-Yuan was okay?”
“Of course,” Lan Zhan said. “I asked that he report to me if he experienced any of the effects.”
They landed by the entrance to the Cloud Recesses. Lan Zhan put Wei Ying down.
Wei Ying put a finger to his chin. “It still doesn’t make sense, though. It was clearly directed at you but it bounced off you and Jiang Cheng before settling on the illustration.”
“I have a theory it has something to do with resentful energy,” Lan Zhan said as they entered the Cloud Recesses. “But let us find Uncle first.”
—
The sun was beginning to rise by the time they found Lan Qiren sitting by his table in a secluded area of the main hall. He looked worse for wear with dark bags under his eyes, and dishevelled hair.
“The curse worked, Wangji,” Lan Qiren said and coughed. “Forgive me.”
Lan Zhan approached his Uncle and put a hand on his shoulder. “I know, Uncle. That is why Wei Ying and I are here. The curse transferred to him.”
Lan Qiren’s eyes widened. “Wei Wuxian. I am sorry,” he said.
Wei Ying was feeling particularly unsympathetic. After all, this was all Lan Qiren’s fault. “Save your apologies for later. We need to know how to cure this,” he said.
Lan Qiren nodded. “Wangji, you need to play Cleansing from the Song of Clarity collection. I have tried but the curse has made me too exhausted and as such my fingers too unsteady.”
Lan Zhan nodded and summoned his guqin at one of the tables, sitting behind it.
“Just that? That seems too easy,” Wei Ying said.
“As a disciplinary tool, it is not intended to be a strong curse and as such should have an easy enough reversal for those musically skilled.”
Wei Ying scoffed. “Not a strong curse. Right.” With the amount of angst he’d been put through as a result of the curse, it felt like a slap in the face for Lan Qiren to say that.
Lan Zhan began playing Cleansing and Wei Ying’s mind started to calm down almost immediately. Lan Qiren appeared relieved, too, with the tension in his shoulders visibly easing. Wei Ying watched, entranced, as Lan Zhan’s fingers slid over the strings. His playing never failed to impress Wei Ying. Lan Zhan made it look so elegant yet effortless but Wei Ying knew (from experience) that it really was a lot harder than Lan Zhan made it look.
“How do you feel?” Lan Zhan asked and it took Wei Ying a moment to realise he’d finished playing.
“Good. At peace,” Wei Ying said.
Lan Zhan turned to Lan Qiren. “Uncle?”
Lan Qiren nodded. “I believe it worked.” He turned his attention to Wei Ying. “Wei Wuxian,” he said, hesitating. “I believe I owe you an apology. I am sorry.”
“I will accept your apology after you have written out the Lan sect rules fifty times,” Wei Ying said, smirking.
Lan Qiren’s face turned red almost immediately. Anger or embarrassment, Wei Ying couldn’t tell. Lan Qiren opened his mouth to speak but was evidently at a loss for how to respond. After a few moments he gave up and exhaled. “I will do it.”
Wei Ying’s eyes widened. He looked to Lan Zhan, who also wore a look of surprise — albeit more subtle than Wei Ying’s. Wei Ying went up to Lan Zhan and leaned into him with his shoulder. “I didn’t think he would actually agree,” he murmured. “Should’ve had him do more.”
“Wei Ying…” Lan Zhan said, but even he couldn’t hide the ever so slight amused curl to his lips. He turned to his uncle. “Uncle, we are leaving now. Rest up. I will be back to check up on you later.”
Lan Qiren nodded. “Thank you, Wangji.”
Wei Ying and Lan Zhan left the main hall. “Where to now?” Wei Ying asked.
But his question was left unanswered as they saw Jiang Cheng standing, waiting for them outside of the main hall.
“Jiang Cheng! What are you doing here?” Wei Ying said.
Jiang Cheng looked to the side, hesitant. “I came to check things were okay.”
“Aw, you do care,” Wei Ying teased, which had Jiang Cheng turning red.
“Wei Wuxian!”
Wei Ying held his hands up in a placating manner. “Sorry, sorry. What about Lotus Pier, though?”
Jiang Cheng sighed. “They will manage a few hours without me.”
“Let us talk in the classroom. It is warmer there,” Lan Zhan said and started walking in the direction of said room. Wei Ying was grateful. Lan Zhan must have noticed Wei Ying was starting to shiver. Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng followed Lan Zhan to the classroom.
Once they were in the empty classroom, Jiang Cheng turned to Lan Zhan. “So is he cured now?” Lan Zhan nodded in confirmation. “And you told him everything?” Lan Zhan nodded again. Jiang Cheng nodded, satisfied. “Good,” he said.
Jiang Cheng turned to Wei Ying. “What do you plan to do now, Wei Wuxian?”
Wei Ying had been expecting the question. “I don’t know,” he said. And it was honest. This whole experience had put his purpose into question.
Jiang Cheng looked at him, frowning. “You know, if you had been around you would’ve known about all of this.”
Wei Ying frowned. “Are you trying to guilt me, Jiang Cheng?”
“No. I’m just stating the obvious. You’ve missed a lot, Wei Wuxian.”
“I know,” Wei Ying said. “But travelling on my own has been great fun! I’ve met so many new people and experienced a lot.” And it was true, for the most part. But he would be lying if he said he hadn’t missed being with his family and friends.
“It’s not me you have to convince of that,” Jiang Cheng said, watching him.
And shit. Jiang Cheng was right, wasn’t he? Catching up with his family and friends had really implanted some doubts in his head about what he wanted to do from here on out. What was his purpose? Was he really meant to be a lone traveller?
“Anyway,” Jiang Cheng said, interrupting Wei Ying’s thoughts. “Since you’re okay I’m going to head back. Make sure you come by and see A-Jie before she, the Peacock, and Jin Ling leave.”
Wei Ying nodded. “Will do. See you later, Jiang Cheng.”
Jiang Cheng gave a final wave and left the classroom. Wei Ying watched as Jiang Cheng mounted his sword and flew off.
Wei Ying sighed and turned to Lan Zhan. “Ah, what now, Lan Zhan?”
“The jingshi. I want to speak with you,” Lan Zhan said.
“But I’m tired of speaking.”
“Wei Ying…”
“Okay, okay. We can speak in the jingshi.”
When they arrived at the jingshi, the first thing Wei Ying did was flop onto Lan Zhan’s bed. “Ah, Lan Zhan. I could just fall asleep right now. Cleansing really cleared my mind.”
“I am glad,” Lan Zhan said as he sat on the end of the bed next to Wei Ying.
Wei Ying sat up. “What was your theory about resentful energy anyway?”
“The song sounded as if it fit in with the Collection of Turmoil. Which, if the case, might explain why it targeted your illustration and transferred to you.”
Wei Ying nodded for him to continue.
“It is likely the curse latched onto the illustration because it could detect traces of resentful energy. Resentful energy is all it would latch onto, hence why it never worked years ago when Lan Qiren tried. That had been before you started demonic cultivation.”
Wei Ying tilted his head. “Resentful energy from a bunny illustration, though?” Then it dawned on him. He smacked his palm with his fist. “Ah, because we carried it with us while we were engaging in night hunts, right? Some of the resentful energy left the smallest trace on that piece of paper. And since I was the source of that piece of paper, it transferred to me.”
Lan Zhan nodded. “That is my theory, anyway.”
“Makes sense. And I suppose you and Jiang Cheng were the ones in the dreams because the curse bounced off you both initially,” Wei Ying said. Lan Zhan nodded.
Wei Ying flopped back on the bed. Lan Zhan’s bed sure was comfortable and softer than he thought it would be. He could get really cosy there. Especially if he had Lan Zhan to cuddle into. Shit. He hadn’t meant to get carried away with yet another Lan Zhan fantasy. His mind just couldn’t avoid dreaming up situations that would never happen.
“Wei Ying. We should discuss the content of your dreams under the curse,” Lan Zhan said, gazing down at Wei Ying.
Wei Ying turned his head to the side. Ah, fuck. He needed to avoid Lan Zhan’s knowing gaze. “Why?” he said, but he knew what was coming.
“Because I saw glimpses of them while playing Cleansing.”
“It’s done now, though. Everything’s fine. They were just dreams.”
“Then why are you avoiding looking at me?” Lan Zhan said, but his voice was gentle.
Wei Ying turned his head to stare directly at Lan Zhan. “I’m not. It’s just… A lot.” He went to look away, but Lan Zhan guided his face back to face him.
“I know your relationship with your brother is complicated and is between you two, so I will not go there. But Wei Ying, what you saw and heard from me, was not the real me.”
Wei Ying gulped. “Lan Zhan…”
“The version of me you saw in those dreams was a manifestation of your subconscious thoughts, feelings, and fears.”
“I get it, Lan Zhan. I get it.” His eyes were starting to feel watery. “So don’t you dare.”
But Lan Zhan continued. “You have convinced yourself that you are not good enough for me and even convinced yourself that I would never love you.” Lan Zhan pulled Wei Ying up to sit next to him and placed his hand over Wei Ying’s. “And Wei Ying, you could not be further from the truth.” He pulled Wei Ying’s hand up to his chest, placing it over his heart. Wei Ying gasped as he felt Lan Zhan’s heart racing fast.
“I love Wei Ying with my entire being. What will it take to convince you of that?”
And just like that, Wei Ying started crying, unable to hold back the tears. Lan Zhan pulled him close and let him cry on his shoulder. The tears were the result of so many mixed up emotions, positive and negative. It felt so freeing to be able to cry so openly.
After Wei Ying had got all the tears out, he separated from Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan offered him a handkerchief and said nothing. As Wei Ying finished wiping his eyes and nose, he smiled at Lan Zhan.
He reached out for Lan Zhan’s hand and held it tightly in his own. “I love Lan Zhan with my entire being, too.”
Lan Zhan squeezed his hand back. This. This was what Wei Ying wanted. He wanted to be a part of Lan Zhan’s world and stay by his side everyday. And beyond that, he wanted to see Jiang Cheng and Shijie more regularly. He wanted to watch Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui grow. He wanted to attend night hunts and see the next generation of cultivators flourish.
He wanted it all. And he could have it. If he just let himself.
It was a lot to process and an unusual feeling. But it was true, wasn’t it? He could have it. He didn’t have to be on the outskirts and alienate himself from everyone he loved. And he could still travel, too, but perhaps he didn’t have to go it alone.
Wei Ying smiled, a few happy tears rolling down his cheeks. Love, of all kinds, was powerful and overwhelming. And maybe it would take some time to get used to, the feeling of being loved and reciprocating that love, but Wei Ying knew it would be worth it.
Wei Ying looked to Lan Zhan. He couldn’t wait to get started.