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Chapter Text

Mo Xuanyu’s knees ached from holding a bow in full prostration. Nothing else would have even gotten him the attention of his aunt and uncle, Lady and Lord Mo. Even so, he knew that it would take a miracle for them to actually listen to him.

“I do not believe we heard you correctly,” said Lady Mo, her voice knife sharp.

“I wish for Mo Ziyuan to return the items that he has stolen from me. He took my cultivation tools last night.” Mo Xuanyu rose to kneel but still stared at the floor. It was easier than looking at his aunt’s face. Of course, he was already at his breaking point, so what was one more stressor before he ended it?

“How dare you!” Lady Mo stood. She glared down at Mo Xuanyu with her hands on her hips until he met her gaze. He flinched away instantly. “How dare you accuse my A-Yuan! You’re a lunatic, how do you know that they were stolen? Maybe you destroyed them yourself? Get out of my sight!”

Mo Xuanyu had expected this. Even so, pain blossomed in his chest as anxiety attacked his heart. Amongst what was taken was some of his notes for the ritual. He had long memorized their contents, understood what he needed to do backward and upside down, but if anyone else realized what he had…

It took too long for him to get to his feet. A-Tong, one of the male servants, grabbed Mo Xuanyu’s arm in a bruising grip and dragged him up to his feet. There was a moment where he tensed and pulled back on the hold. His breath caught in his throat. A-Tong just held on tighter, ready for the lunatic episode that would come.

“Filth, coming to disrupt our honored lady and lord’s household with lies and slander,” said A-Tong, loud enough for his aunt and uncle to hear. As if A-Tong had not assisted Mo Xuanyu’s cousin with his theft. If he had been less worried about the truth within those notes coming to light, perhaps he would have countered A-Tong’s accusation.

Mo Xuanyu was dragged out of the house and the main compound before he could pull his arm from A-Tong’s grasp. After taking a moment to spit at the patch of grass in front of Mo Xuanyu, he marched back inside. Once he was alone the young man took deep breaths, trying to focus. His requests for his things to be returned was rejected, which meant he would have to push his plans forward. If Mo Xuanyu were found out, there was no hope of another chance. They would more likely burn the shack with him in it, then wave it off as an accident.

Mo Xuanyu’s hand balled into a fist, his nails scratching into his palm. The pain brought him back from his scattering thoughts. He would not allow those that had made his life a living torment be rid of him so easily.

He would do the ritual tonight.

Mo Ziyuan, in his haste to take whatever cultivation tools appeared the most interesting and dangerous to him, had not checked what was in the paper wastebasket in one corner of the shack. That was where Mo Xuanyu had stored the notes describing how to enact the body-giving ritual, and his account of living under the Mo Family roof. As he wrote it out, part of him wondered if he should add more names...

Flashes of faces and whispers invaded the front of his mind, making him curl into a ball and dry heave in the chilly silence of the shack. No, no he couldn’t add them. It was his own fault anyway.

Folded carefully between these scraps of paper was a small nail file that he had taken from his mother’s old cosmetics box. Mo Xuanyu had used a rock, over and over, to even out its edges until the end took on an uncharacteristically sharp point.

Before beginning the ritual, Mo Xuanyu took one last look at his complexion in the bronze mirror that rested on its side, knocked down during Mo Ziyuan’s search. His reflection showed him a ghastly sight. A face powdered white, with large red cheeks done up with rouge. His mother’s face didn’t look like that when he found her hanging one morning, in the months following his public disgrace. But it would still frighten Lady Mo as the vengeful spirit he summoned killed her, her son, her husband, and her servant.

He tested the nail file against his fingers. Blood welled up easily, but would it be enough? No. Of course not. He untied his belt and cut across his stomach and chest. It hurt, it hurt so much, but it was worth it, it had to be. He’d get his revenge on the Mo family. His thoughts skittered away like frightened spiders at even the most nebulous thought of getting revenge on anyone else that hurt him, too far away and the hurt itself too painful to contemplate for long.

“Blood as medium. Hand as means.”

He dipped his fingers into the cuts on his torso and painted the outer round of symbols and characters. With a brush his writing was neater, and this ritual needed things to be as accurate as possible. At the same time, it needed to be drawn by hand, even if his fingers shook. Once finished, he tightened his belt into place.

“Flesh to thy spirit, soul to the dust.”

Taking up the nail file again, Mo Xuanyu cut twice on each of his arms. First for Mo Ziyuan, second for A-Tong, third for Lord Mo, and the final, deepest, cut for Lady Mo. Using the blood that flowed down his hands from these new cuts he wrote in the inner symbols. Maybe he was just seeing things, but there seemed to be a faint red glow along the lines of the array.

“Awaiting the descent of the Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian!”

The array burst into red light and black smoke, blowing his hair every which way. The resentful energy attached to his soul was a pain far beyond anything that he had experienced previously. He tried to think only of calling the wickedest of spirits, the Yiling Patriarch, into his body to take it and enact his revenge, but his thoughts would go back to the same loop.

I don’t want to die, I don’t want to die, I don’t want to die. Awaiting the descent of the Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian. Awaiting the descent of the Yiling Patriarch, Wei Wuxian. I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die.

…Wei Wuxian, I don’t want to die...

Mo Xuanyu woke with the familiar sensation of his cousin kicking him in the ribs.

Familiar? I’ve never been awakened in such a rude manner!

An unfamiliar voice ringed through his subconscious, knocking him out more than the blow. It is not a voice he can give name to: it is masculine, and deeper than his own, but there is a hint of levity in its tone that sounded like the voice was getting unfairly scolded for pulling some kind of harmless prank.

Mo Xuanyu moved to grip at his head to protect it from the onslaught, only to find nothing to grasp.

His eyes opened. He could see his cousin, could hear Mo Ziyuan yelling vitriol at him, and he could feel the dried blood that stuck to his fingers, the sharp pain at his side and then his stomach as the foot connected once more. The kicks must have reopened his wounds, but this thought is only a faint string drifting around the other troubling strings. He could feel, but he couldn’t control . Mo  Xuanyu could not move his arms or twist his head, he couldn’t control anything. Panic welled up in him. He must have made a grievous error in the ritual…

Ritual? Hello, excuse me, could you tell me what’s going on? Why is that guy aiming spittle at my face?

“It’s my face.” Mo Xuanyu’s voice rang out, unknowingly interrupting Mo Ziyuan’s tirade. That earned him another kick.  

“What nonsense are you spewing from your mouth now? Learn your place! You’ve already been sent back by the cultivators, do you think you have any right to anything?”

Mo Xuanyu felt rather than made his body rise, only for it to crumble into a heap. Mo Ziyuan and the group that he had brought to destroy the room even further left soon after, leaving him there. Mo Xuanyu heard instead of said the next words that came out of his mouth.

“Hmph, what did he expect? I’m dead. I haven’t spoken for heaven knows how long.” His gaze shifted to the mirror, back at his reflection. It was the same face that Xuanyu saw looking back at him before he began the ritual, only with some cracks in the powder.

A look of confusion mixed with disgust crossed Mo Xuanyu’s features. “Add a bloodred tongue to this picture and it would look just like a hanging ghost.”

Though he could not speak again, his thoughts answered back to the claims. What right did this voice have to judge his work? That was the intention.

“Huh? Oh, it’s you again. Wait, who are you?”

Mo Xuanyu felt a wave of irritation through the pain and panic. I should be asking that question. You’re the one who’s not supposed to be in here!

“Really now?” Mo Xuanyu’s gaze was drawn to his bloody fingers, and the now drying slashes on his arm, then to the bloody circular array still beneath him. Some debris from the broken objects covered it, but it was still there, drawn perfectly according to the notes. Because it looks to me that you attempted a ritual that did exactly that.

No it didn’t! Where’s the villainous ghoul? Where’s the Yiling Patriarch?

A laugh filled the shed, and it is strange for Mo Xuanyu to hear his own laughter, after so long. As unreal as the response that echoes through his mind in that voice once more.

Wei Wuxian, Yiling Patriarch, present!

Chapter Text

There was a long space of quiet. Mo Xuanyu wished that he could move his own arms, that they weren’t under the control of this spirit because he wanted to bury his face in his hands. He didn’t know if it was to laugh or cry. Maybe both.

I can’t believe that someone as blase as you can be the Yiling Patriarch. He replied instead, his words sent into the weird liminal space of thought. Even as he denied that Wei Wuxian is who he says he is, Mo Xuanyu knew that it was the truth. He drew the characters perfectly, despite the shakiness in his limbs. His call for the Yiling Patriarch was imperfect, marked as it was by intrusive thoughts, but there was no way that the ritual could have summoned anyone but whom he sought.

What? You doubt my authenticity? How rude. Wei Wuxian brought a hand up to his, to Mo Xuanyu’s , chin, and his voice went between from being between their minds and spoken out loud. It was strange for Mo Xuanyu to hear his own voice taking cadences that he’d never use. “Hmm… what would be a good way to convince you…”

The one-room hut was a mess. The blood array dominated the floor. Off on the side, the wastebasket was knocked over, and in one corner a wooden box had been smashed to pieces. White powder and rouge ground into the dirt like dried blood. However, there were a few sheets of rectangular paper that were missed by both the previous theft and the morning’s destruction. “Aha!”

His fingers pinched and pulled up one of these pieces. “This will do nicely. Happen to have any ink? Ah, no matter. Blood can work for it all in a pinch.”

Wei Wuxian swiped a finger through one of the cuts along his arm, then dragged the now wet digit like an ink brush, creating a collection of symbols that Mo Xuanyu immediately recognized.  A Spirit Flag.

Wait, you might not want-

Halfway through the process, Mo Xuanyu’s body started to pitch to the side in a faint. He tried to throw out his arms to catch himself, but they did not move how he wanted them too. Right, of course, not in control at all still. He fell face first to the floor.

Look, Mo Xuanyu continued. It’s not that I doubt you’re you. But… I was expecting someone meaner. You don’t seem to be the type to take bloody revenge on anyone. And I wasn’t expecting to remain here afterword .

Wei Wuxian groaned and slumped onto his side – their side? – his side. But his thoughts were still going a mile a minute.

I would bow at the kindness of that perspective on me from our short acquaintance, but really? I mean I was quite powerful when I was alive, but thinking of me as some vengeful demon is too much! My name has been besmirched in my absence. His hand raised and clutched at his head as if that motion could will the lightheadedness away. As for why you’re still here when I am, I don’t have the faintest idea why. There are only a handful of body relinquishing rituals recorded in historical memory-

Mo Xuanyu interrupted the tirade. But you were the one that left notes on how to do it.

...Well, my notes were more improving on conjecture than my own experiments! Either way, none of those past rituals were successful, and certainly didn’t lead to an incomplete… well, perhaps the better word is double-complete body relinquishing ritual. I will have to write down this new change to the theory! He then winced as another throb of pain came to his temples. “Maybe at another time.”

Knuckles quickly knocked against the hut. It wasn’t asking for an invitation to come in, but rather a familiar knock to tell someone to hold their tongue. Feelings of pain and irritation colored Wei Wuxian’s thoughts, bleeding over into Mo Xuanyu’s.   I can’t even voice my malcontent? I’m- we’re- already under guard, my voice can’t reach that brat. Who is he to you? One of the people you wanted me to kill?

Yes. Mo Xuanyu’s mental voice was coated in a brittle, bitter frost. My cousin, he takes my things. Him, his mother, and the servant A-Tong, they beat me regularly, call me mad… though that accusation is not far off the mark. And his father… Xuanyu trailed off, the feeling of frost growing before it abruptly halted and was forcefully pushed away. In any case, of them my cousin and my aunt are the worst of them.

Something… strange shifted into Wei Wuxian’s thoughts. It was similar to the irritation he had expressed before but different. It ran deeper, smoldering in his consciousness. The feeling scared Mo Xuanyu, but, for the first time in a long while, that feeling was not aimed towards him. Is that so.

Wei Wuxian then gradually moved up into a sitting position, raising arms and legs, testing their range of movement. Dull pain from the cuts returned, but it was not as much as before. Wei Wuxian’s hands then went to his waist, and before Mo Xuanyu could object, he realized he was tightening his sash, partly as a makeshift bandage for the cuts along his stomach. When he raised his hands back, the long sleeves of his tattered robes fell, showing his bony wrists.

Your body is very weak. I’m surprised you were even able to do the ritual. Good heavens, when was the last time they fed you?  

Mo Xuanyu took some time to recall. Well, Mo Ziyuan stole most of my tools the night before last. The night before that was when I washed in the donkey trough… so, three, four days from when they last remembered to put food through the door flap.

It was easier to remember the meal, though. Overcooked rice and some leftover broth from something. I think it had meat in it, based on the aftertaste.

While Mo Xuanyu related this, Wei Wuxian stood and stretched. He moved slowly. The body’s weakness needed to be battled every step of the way. There was little telling when it could faint on them again. Next step was getting outside the hut.

“Hey!” The manservant outside turned when the hut’s door opened. “Young master sai-”

He didn’t finish. Wie Wuxian grabbed his outstretched arm and used it to put him in a joint lock behind his back, and knocked him to the ground, giving an extra kick to the head to make sure he stayed down.

“Would love to chat, but we’re going to get some actual food now,” Wei Wuxian told the prone manservant. “Stay there for a bit.”

There was no response.

“Wonderful.” He then began to walk away from the shed. Where would there be some good food? And I would ask for drink, but in this state you’d probably collapse after one sip.

Mo Xuanyu rallied from the feeling of shock that was rattling through him. I… But we have no money. The guest cultivators should be arriving today, so there may be too many servants around to steal from the kitchens… unless...

Unless what? A grin crossed Wuxian’s face. Come now, where would be the easiest place for me to pilfer some food? While we eat, you can tell me about these guest cultivators.

Cook hates Lady Mo almost as much as she hates me. She might be distracted enough to not notice a few things going missing, and might not tell even if she does catch you. The kitchens are on the northeast side of the family compound.

His feet start moving in that direction. Any strange looks thrown his way were responded to with a carefree smile. That probably assured the servants that the other young master had officially lost it, and they kept their distance. Once they reach the back of the kitchens, Wei Wuxian sneaked a glance inside to find that it was clear, save for one person turned away from the door, sitting on a stool and peeling potatoes. The others seemed to have just left, with leftover food remaining on the center table.

Hm, while I would love to have one of those, I’ll stick with the ready-made.

Mo Xuanyu watched as his fingers turned nimble and quick, snatching up a spare bowl and then filling it with as much food as it can hold, not only from the table, but the still simmering pot. He stuffed one dumpling into his mouth to make more room, before silently backing out, all before the cook’s assistant had time to finish peeling one potato. He found an empty wall of the compound, and, despite the continual ache of his body, Wei Wuxian was able to swing himself up and sit on the roof, bowl and its contents intact.

“Ah, it’s so good to have food again,” Wei Wuxian nearly moaned, eating with his bare and bloodied hand from the bowl with relish. That Cook is fairly skilled! Could use some more spice, though. So, you mentioned guest cultivators earlier? Sounds like the perfect opportunity to wreak some havoc.

Wait… are you going to help with taking revenge on my family?

“Hm,” Wei Wuxian hummed while his mouth was still full, before remembering that he could reply in his thoughts. Well, since you didn’t complete the ritual, I don’t have the compulsion to kill them. And despite how despicable they are, I am not comfortable with killing them just like that.  

He then finished chewing, taking time to lick both crumbs and blood from his fingers. Mo Xuanyu could tell that the rumors about the Yiling Patriarch being an esteemed gentleman were also farfetched. Despite the gravity of the conversation, he continued to act very casually. But! I can certainly make their lives miserable for you, and cause them unimaginable shame. Your cousin is interested in cultivation tools, which means Lady Mo has put the idea into his head that he should be a cultivator. Let’s start by ruining his chances of that ever happening, and go from there?

Xuanyu contemplated a moment while Wuxian continued to eat. It wasn’t exactly what he wanted, but he would have to take it wouldn’t he? Even while he had been conducting the ritual, as much as he hated his family, hated what they did to him, how they hurt him, death had been hard to think of. But it served the purpose of the ritual, and it got rid of a quartet of fairly horrible people.

Okay, he said finally. When the guest cultivators arrive, almost everyone from the village will be there. If I know her, she’ll use the opportunity to push my cousin forward for cultivation training, when all he’s done is be envious of me for the past ten years, thinking that I was given what he deserved to have.

My, sounds exactly like a brat. And that mother no better. Wei Wuxian commented. That manservant with Mo Ziyuan, is also culpable. Is the father the same?

In his own way.

Ah, not talking then. Very well. Wei Wuxian took a few more bites, before speaking again. Let’s move on to talking about me. How long have I been dead?

Thirteen years. Xuanyu seemed to fold himself up in their mind at the question about Lord Mo, but uncurled a little as the topic shifted. He explained how there had been a large array trying to summon him for years, which wandered into more of the general history of what had happened while Wei Wuxian had been dead. Every fact he preceded with ‘My knowledge is two years old, but,’ but the information was presented concisely and clearly.

Wei Wuxian’s emotions shifted between smug incredulous, sadness, and then frustration. What would he gain from returning as a vengeful ghost? He might have been reviled by the cultivation world, but it wasn’t in his personality to come back as a malevolent entity. Despite his threats over the years leading to his demise. Thirteen years... feels like no time at all has passed for me, but could just be my memory acting up. Even when I was alive, it was never the best.

However, like before, he turned the discussion back to Mo Xuanyu. But two years… so that was when you came back to Mo Village? He set the bowl aside, having wiped it clean. Or were you forced back?

I was thrown out of my sect. The feeling of frost from earlier in their acquaintance came back, enhancing the feeling that he was folding in on himself again. Things happened. I don’t like to talk about it.

Wei Wuxian didn’t respond to that, his consciousness shrinking from the frost. Though it was only mental, he could still feel the chill of isolation. A shield that prevented anyone from getting too close. He decided on a better strategy. His hand rose and gently patted the top of his, and Mo Xuanyu’s, head. Painful memories. You don’t have to say more than you want to say.

Xuanyu flinched. Despite that, there was a pulse of gratefulness that filled the mind space they shared.

Before any more thoughts could be exchanged, the corner of their eye was drawn to a pair of floating figures garbed in white.  They descended from the sky and landed near the compound entrance doors.

Wei Wuxian pursed his lips together and whistled. “Gusu Lan Sect disciples… No matter how much time passes, they still look like they’re dressed for a funeral.”

Despite all of the emotional ups and downs of the morning -- Was it still really only just past morning? It seemed impossible -- Xuanyu laughed. You know? The uniform does look like funeral clothing. They look young.

“Glad to hear someone agrees with me. And yes, they do. Maybe this is a first job they have been sent on their own to cover, which means they might be here on other business besides Lady Mo’s ploy to get her son into a sect,” Wei Wuxian gracefully jumped back down from his perch, only stumbling slightly during the landing. That much food to a half-starved body might have been too much, and now he felt too heavy in the middle. It wouldn’t stop him, though.

The walking corpses. There have been stories of a few being around. Let’s hope they can keep their cool better than Lady Mo when she’s worked up.

Walking corpses, huh? Always good to have a few around. But, best to focus on the present.   Wei Wuxian tightened the belt again, then messed up their hair some more to look slightly more deranged, before walking forward.

Let’s go ruin Lady Mo’s day.

Chapter Text

As Mo Xuanyu had said, nearly everyone in the village had congregated in the family’s main compound, trying to catch a glimpse of the cultivators. And as Wei Wuxian promised, he had caused a remarkable scene, his voice going higher and more pronounced on certain words, speaking in riddles that hinted and outright accused the family of Mo Xuanyu’s mistreatment. All the while he weaved in and out of Mo Ziyuan’s reach, taunting him with accusations of stealing his cultivation tools, showing how greedy his cousin was. No matter how much Lady Mo attempted to keep her decorum, it easily cracked and flinched when she saw Mo Xuanyu’s-- or rather, Wei Wuxian’s-- smiling expression. Many servants and villagers covered their mouths in horror or to hide their snickers.

However, there was one point where Wei Wuxian went too far.

“I haven’t even gotten to what else he could have taken, coming in at night,” Wei Wuxian pointed an accusing finger at Yu Ziyuan. “Even though he knew that I was his cousin! I don’t care about your reputation, but don’t ruin my innocence!”

The entire room went deathly quiet, until Mo Ziyuan let out a loud scream and threw a chair at him. Lady Mo’s face turned white in fury. Lord Mo slinked out of the hall. In their shared headspace, where there had once been an amazed hilarity pouring from Mo Xuanyu there was now a snap of frozen air.

Wei Wuxian stumbled at the shift, confused enough to allow an opening for Mo Ziyuan’s hand to try and grab him-- only to be intercepted by one of the young cultivators. Wei Wuxian took that as a sign to take his leave, so he theatrically bowed to the young cultivators, then made his way out with the quickly receding crowd. However, before leaving the compound, he ducked away and doubled back to stand slightly hidden, just outside the hall, to overhear that the young cultivators had set up a perimeter of spirit attraction flags.

Once he got the information he needed and checked over the flags, he made his way back to the shed, rubbing his stomach. All the bouncing around with a full belly made him feel a bit ill, but not enough to still complain. At least the cuts had stopped bleeding. They cursed my tools while I was alive, yet use them after my death? Heh… hey, you’ve been quiet for awhile, what’s going on?

Xuanyu felt cold. It didn’t matter that it was phantasmal, but he could still feel it, project it, keep himself together with it.  While everything in the hall was funny, did you really have to imply the incest? At the same time, there was this underlying sense of awe in their shared mental space. Things had moved so fast in such a short time, that Xuanyu didn’t know how to keep up, and latching onto something that upset him was the only way he could conceive of how to move himself forward.

Wei Wuxian shrugged his shoulders. I got caught up in the moment. Beating and starving a dependent relative is frowned upon in polite society, but an incest implication is a true path for disgrace. Even more, it implies homosexual incest, which would be absolutely taboo--

I am a homosexual.

Huh?

I am a Cutsleeve. I desire other men and hold no desire for women.

There was a long pause as Wei Wuxian thought over these words, and his previous words. He slumped to the ground. “I apologize. I should have considered my words.”

Wei Wuxian didn’t realize that he said these words out loud, but doing so made him feel that they had more weight. Huh, he didn’t realize his new associate was a Cutsleeve. Then he considered it more, and shrugged his shoulders, finding he didn’t actually care all that much. It wasn’t as if they were in a situation to worry about romance of any sort. If it came up later, they could discuss it then.

It’s… It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.

It didn’t sound like something to brush off, but when some of the frost between their consciousness ebbed, Wei Wuxian returned to his normal, chattering attitude. I don’t think I’ve ever met a Cutsleeve in person, so that was rude of me to use it as a term to invoke shame, when it should not be.

Mo Xuanyu almost made it a forgiving action when he moved onto the other topic that had been nagging at his brain ever since Wei Wuxian had blown past the servant guarding the shack. Why are you helping me?

Wei Wuxian cupped his chin in thought, a small hum pursing through his lips. Well, despite your ill intentions in summoning me,  you still brought me back. I didn’t ask nor want to be, but now that we’re in the same situation, it’s better to help each other, no? I still want to ask how you came across my research notes later, I haven’t forgotten that.

Mo Xuanyu zeroed in on the sense of indifference that Wei Wuxian expressed. Indifference was fine, and seemed to be the source for how easily Wei Wuxian accepted their current circumstances. …Making the best of things. Okay. I can understand that.

Once more, Wei Wuxian smiled, or at least Mo Xuanyu thought he could tell he was smiling, based on the small phantom tug. Then us two souls are agreed. He picked up a blade on long grass and stuck it into his mouth, humming out a small tune, leaning against the side of the shed. That reminds me, I think I heard your name being referred to, but you never told me yourself. What is your name? Now that we’re in this situation, I can’t refer to you as ‘you’ and you calling me something like ‘most honored and esteemed founder’ would get old fast.

Wei Wuxian felt his eyes roll. Hey, you got some control back with that!

You are amused by the strangest things… and Mo Xuanyu. That is my name.

He took the grass out for a moment. “Mo Xuanyu.” Wei Wuxian spoke aloud once, twice, three times, then smiled again and put the grass back.

Why say it aloud? Hearing him say made Mo Xuanyu feel odd. It was his voice saying his own name but not his inflection. His name was also not said in a tone of dismissal or anger.

I know I won’t forget your name now, saying it aloud. Now, how old are you?

... Four and twenty. Why?

Wei Wuxian shrugged. Now thinking about how I should refer to you. I was... roughly the same age as you when I died, but shouldn’t I technically be considered your elder? Ah, we’ll figure it out later, but is “Xuanyu” your courtesy name? It’s a lovely one! Gives off the impression of flying off to lofty heights.

Or falling from one. There is a strange echo to his voice, as if repeating from an old memory. But while the pitch was different the sarcastic intonation was the same. As soon as it came, it passed. It is, but I’m not going to give you my birth name just yet. We’re not that close, despite circumstances.

How sad, I thought we were closer than close. Wei Wuxian’s voice had a teasing lilt, before his thoughts grew more muddled for a moment. Something undefined, unlike the sharpness of his previous emotions, drifted into their shared space. I feel like… I’ve heard that voice before.

Before Mo Xuanyu can ask though, the feeling passes. More likely, though, Wei Wuxian deliberately shifted his thoughts away from that self-inquiry. Oh well. Mo Xuanyu, you can refer to me however you like!

His eyes rolled again. It was hard to refer to this man with proper titles when he was so casual. Are you this friendly with everyone you meet?

You haven’t tried to do me harm, why should I be cold? Wei Wuxian replied as if this was obvious, before a smile came over his lips again. And, I can’t put my finger on it... but, I think there’s just something about you that I like. What about me?

Mo Xuanyu was confused. This man’s thought process was all over the place. What about you?

Have I made a good first impression?

Mo Xuanyu parroted Wei Wuxian’s previous response. You haven’t tried to do me any harm. ... And you’re helping me out when you don’t have to, for which I’m grateful. The wounds ached again

Wei Wuxian hummed, spitting out the piece of grass, gingerly getting to his feet and entering the shed. He gathered a half ripped pillow and blanket, then settled down into a corner. You sound tired. Let’s sleep until nightfall, and then we can find out more about these corpses.

Their sleep was light, and not all that restful. Despite everything they couldn’t do more than doze. When nightfall came, shouting from outside the shack woke both of them. They weren’t able to move before the shack’s door burst open. A hand grasped their arm. Mo Xuanyu panicked, but he couldn’t breathe, couldn’t shake, couldn’t speak because Wei Wuxian was still in control of his body.

They were dragged out of the shack and thrown forward. Wuxian managed to keep their feet under them as the crowd of angry and scared people corralled them forward to the direction of the courtyard.

Lady Mo wept angry, despairing tears over a cloth covered body. She threw accusations of murder at them while Wei Wuxian pulled the cloth back enough to expose the head of it. It took a moment to realize what it was: the corpse of Mo Ziyuan. Mo Xuanyu’s cousin was dead, drained of all his life energy and shriveled enough to almost be unrecognizable.

It was good that Wei Wuxian was in control, because Mo Xuanyu didn’t know what he would have done. This was what he wanted, wasn’t it? One of his tormentors was dead. Not the worst of them, that dubious honor he gave to Lady Mo, but now he’d never be able to steal Mo Xuanyu’s things again, or hurt him. Yet… he felt hollow. A life had ended, and that was not a minor thing. His revenge tasted like so much dust covering his soul. It was hard to remind himself that he had wanted this, that he had tried to kill himself for this. On having it happen, Mo Xuanyu realized that it wasn’t worth his life to have this revenge, no matter how despairing he had been the last two years and more.

Lady Mo tried to run at them with a dagger, but one of the Lan Sect cultivators held her back as she screamed at them, cursing Mo Xuanyu and calling for justice for her son.

Let her have her words, she’s just lashing out. Wei Wuxian thought, but his thoughts grew more calculated as he inspected the corpse. Sure enough, one of Mo Ziyuan’s arms was missing, which would point towards one of Wei Wuxian’s earlier threats about stealing from him again. However, as people continued to argue above them, Wei Wuxian continued to search the body, revealing a Spirit Attraction Flag tucked into Mo Ziyuan’s clothes. Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian reached the same connection.

“He had it coming!” Wei Wuxian muttered.

“What did you say?”

Mo Ziyuan had attracted whatever had killed him. It was no one’s fault but his own. And by the state of his corpse, Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian could tell no mere walking corpse could have done this, to be able to drain Mo Ziyuan so obviously and take his arm.

One of the cultivator’s took the Spirit Attraction Flag, and explained in a much more polite way. That sent Lady Mo into another barrage of accusations, her anger no longer being contained to just Mo Xuanyu, her usual target, but now to the Lan Sect juniors. Both of them noticed how their expressions turned darker, but they said nothing. A flare of anger and frustration coursed through Wei Wuxian, though. He stood up and faced Lady Mo, shoulders thrown back, no longer acting the lunatic.

And then, probably for the first time in her life, someone talked back at Lady Mo. Very thoroughly thrashed her and her son.

But Mo Ziyuan soon wasn’t the only one to fall. After Lord Mo uncharacteristically pushed Lady Mo when she attempted to order him around like usual, A-Tong was ordered to take him back inside. It was strange, since Lady Mo was the parent that always seemed to care about their son. Lord Mo had his own wishes, and as long as he didn’t cross Lady Mo or bring public disgrace, he could do as he pleased. Yet, soon after A-Tong took him by the shoulders and began to guide him inside, the manservant let out a high-pitched scream, and both fell to the ground. Beforehand, Lord Mo’s body shuddered, as if dropped in a lake of ice-cold water.

“The arm, the arm!” A maid screamed. Sure enough, Lord Mo’s arm was gone. Well, more accurately, the arm launched itself at A-Tong’s throat, strangling him and ceasing his screams. This sent the rest of the crowd that had gathered in the courtyard towards all potential exits, only for the candles to be blown out, even from the lanterns.  

The darkness was supernatural in nature. Mo Xuanyu could tell before the calmer of the Lan disciples took out a talisman. There was a feeling in the air as everyone huddled to each other, trying not to be the next victim of the monstrous left hand. It was strange that he had gone to A-Tong and Lord Mo as it’s next victims, instead of anyone else who was far closer.

Wei Wuxian, it’s only been attacking the people that I wanted revenge on. The question was why. But before it could be considered further, they caught sight of Lady Mo in the talisman’s fire light.

Her face was blank, arms hanging limply at her sides, hands barely visible. One hand was not a woman’s. There was no more time to question after that.

The Lan juniors weren’t having a good time of it. Wei Wuxian’s covert help - such as kicking the feisty junior into the path of the Hand’s attack so the protective spells in the Lan uniform robes would take the brunt of the damage - could only do so much, even after the Hand dropped from Lady Mo’s completely drained corpse.  We need more help, quickly.

“Ah!” Wei Wuxian said aloud, before running towards the area of the courtyard where the zombies were sealed. In the current chaos, no one noticed him clap his hands. “Come now everyone, wake up!”

Xuanyu’s own studies into Demonic Cultivation was mostly in the theory of Resentful Energy and crafting spells, rituals, and talismans. He’d not raised any dead on his own, or tried to summon any ghosts until offering his body to Wei Wuxian. It was humbling, to watch a master at work. And a bit amusing, considering that the corpses from the village were too scared of Wei Wuxian to be raised again.

Wei Wuxian clicked his tongue. “Hm, where can I… oh, of course!”

He turned to look back at the more recently dead corpses in the courtyard. Lesson time, Mo Xuanyu. They all just died, and in such an unfair way, too. They will be coursing with resentful energy. Which means, what?

More power than the others...

Precisely. So that means- Wei Wuxian hunched over Mo Ziyuan’s corpse, then Lord Mo’s, then A-Tong’s and Lady Mo’s, speaking the same phrase in their ears. “Wake up!”

The four lifeless bodies all rose, eyes pale, with awful hissing coming from their slack jaws.

-Instead of a walking corpse, you have a fierce corpse!

And with a simple command to tear the thing that caused their deaths apart, they ran with incredible speed towards the Hand. Yet, even with four newly risen fierce corpses, a group that based on his research would tear another corpse to pieces, were having incredible difficulty following Wei Wuxian’s command. With every slash or grab, the arm fought back with ten times the malice. The Hand was far too strong. How did the Spirit Attraction Flag lure in such a thing?

Frustration and urgency welled in equal measure in Wei Wuxian, and he curled his tongue, about to send out a sharp whistling command.

Two clear strokes of the guqin broke the air like arrows in flight.

Their source stood on his sword, silhouetted against the moon. The cold moonlight highlighted his fair skin and refined features. It contrasted with his hair, black as fresh ink and flowing in the night breeze. The man looked as if he was a jade statuette that had come to life through the blessing of Heaven. In one hand, he held a black guqin as easily as one might hold a sheet of paper. His gaze was clear and sharp, not yet looking at them…

Or perhaps the vision of physical perfection wasn’t looking at them because Wei Wuxian was actively running away from the courtyard.

Wait! Wei Wuxian! Why are we fleeing from the handsome man that just saved us?

Because we have just both been taken from a certain death, and I don’t want to return to it anytime soon!

Mo Xuanyu tried to take control of their movement to turn back and look one more time, despite the image already being seared into his memory.

It was surprising how easy it was for Wei Wuxian to navigate the compound now, until he reached the small stable near the shed. Mo Xuanyu had a faint realization that this would probably be the last time he would see it, as Wei Wuxian quickly untied the donkey that had been sleeping there, climbed onto his back, and urged it forward. They rode off into the night, away from the dimming chaos of Mo Village.

Chapter Text

The journey so far had been relatively uneventful, but not to say it had been pleasant. “Little Apple”, the donkey, (Wei Wuxian decided on the name, not Mo Xuanyu), could graze for the most part, but preferred to try and steal fruit from orchards passed along the way. They only nearly escaped once or twice, but Apple proved enough of a distraction for Wei Wuxian to steal a robe drying after being washed, some vegetables, and even some paper from an open window. The second night after they left Mo Village, they finally had a full night’s rest.

Something odd occurred in the night: Mo Xuanyu awoke not to the murky liminal space he was slowly growing used to, but to the full feeling of grass underneath him, and the ache of some of the scabbing of his cuts breaking when he moved to the side. He had control of his body back. For a moment, Mo Xuanyu wondered if all that had happened was some long-winded hallucinatory episode, but then...

Good morning, Xuanyu! Hm, seems you have control today. How peculiar!

… How are you still so blase about everything?

Mo Xuanyu couldn’t see it but could certainly imagine Wei Wuxian shrugging. It’s a gift.

The change allowed him to make the vegetables they stole into something edible, and with a needle he found in a stray part of his robes and some more blood, he made a functional spirit trapping pouch.

This has lead them to their current situation: opening up a coffin in a graveyard with Wei Wuxian giving a practical lesson on summoning spirits from corpses.

Now, you need to speak softly to it.

Mo Xuanyu rubbed his fingers against each other,  just a bit nervous, before concentrating on the open coffin. “Okay... wake up.”

The corpse’s head quivered. He lifted it towards Mo Xuanyu, only then to turn back on his side, as if willfully ignoring him.

A small snicker came from Wei Wuxian,  but he quickly calmed himself. You just need to be a bit more forceful, make it clear you’re in charge. It would take too long to sweet talk him, so better to assert your authority.

First, you say speak softly, then you say be more forceful, make up your mind!

Apologies, many apologies. Sometimes you have to find your own style, and some corpses are more willful than others.

Mo Xuanyu centered himself, glaring somewhat at the corpse. “Wake Up.”

Now, the corpse rose to meet the command, spine straight and awaiting further orders.

Mo Xuanyu sighed, before he responded to his confusing teacher. Well, they were people once. Maybe this man was a soldier, once upon a time.
Hm, is that what you’re able to tell by his clothes?

Mo Xuanyu gestured to his back. Posture. From his clothing...

He walked around the corpse like a drill sergeant, hands crossed behind his back. Not wealthy, so not a lot of grave goods. Also, based on his first reaction... I'd say that there was some bit of resentful energy, he didn't want to be a soldier.

Wei Wuxian did nothing to hold back his feelings of admiration at how he discerned this much, and it made Mo Xuanyu feel slightly awkward. Very good, full marks. If I was actually grading you on this. Now tell him to wait like a good boy when we wake up a few others. Do what you think is right in how to convey that order.

Mo Xuanyu gestured his hand at the corpse, as if at a servant, or commanding a trained pet. “Wait Here. You'll have friends soon.”

The soldier stared at him with pupilless eyes but did what was ordered, climbing out of the grave, only to remain standing beside it.  

A bit willful in death.

“Well, that happens sometimes. Some people just don't know when to die.” Mo Xuanyu replied, keeping his tone light. “Like me.”

Despite making more morbid jokes than that on a regular basis, Wei Wuxian didn’t seem humored by the response. Do you regret that it didn’t work?

Xuanyu scowled. He didn’t want to deal with this now and moved over to the next grave to start digging. What do you expect me to say?

A few minutes went by where no sound came to Mo Xuanyu but the shovel moving through dirt and the slight wheeze from the soldier’s corpse.  Eventually, though, a voice replied. I’m not sure. I mean, I guess when I died I was in a similar position. I didn’t want to live anymore, that was for sure.

Mo Xuanyu could vaguely remember hearing gossip about the death of the Yiling Patriarch. It wasn’t much, but the death had sounded brutal, and painful. His whole body had been ripped to shreds… and even when trying to prepare for the ritual, a part of him wondered if his soul would end up the same. Ripped apart so much that no scrap was left that could be discerned…

But, now, I want to live, Wei Wuxian continued. You summoning me gave me a second chance in some ways, even if it didn’t seem that way on the first day. Truly, even with what happened these past few days, I feel nothing but gratitude. Does... staying, even after the ritual, feel like that to you?

The shovel hit something that wasn’t earth as Mo Xuanyu found he had no real answer. It was hard to feel gratitude to a situation this absurd. I... I don't know. I didn't plan this far. Hell, I wasn't planning beyond getting to the next night.

T hat’s the challenge: your perspective! Mo Xuanyu, the secret to surviving life is improvising. If you try to plan too far ahead, you will feel bogged down by your choices... though, I guess I had the opposite problem. Hahaha!

Despite his apparent light-heartedness, Mo Xuanyu felt no actual humor cross over. A strange contradiction, but one that Mo Xuanyu couldn’t pinpoint fully yet. Wei Wuxian was turning out to be nothing but contradictions.

I've not had a lot of choices... Mo slowly uncovered the coffin that he's unearthed, using the shovel for leverage, and blinked in surprise with what he found. A semi-fresh corpse, but one far too bloated to be from the process of decay alone was inside. ”...Well, a glutton.”

Indeed. His spirit will be just as heavy, hopefully. How do you plan on coaxing him?

Mo Xuanyu crouched down using the spade for balance, and a smirk drew up his mouth.“Get Up. There’s Hot Pork Buns.”

The corpse climbed out of the coffin and joined the soldier with an unnatural amount of speed.

Well, that worked. If you love food and hadn’t gotten any in a long while, that’s an incentive.

Mo Xuanyu continued to wear his smirk as he stood up. Tailor both to yourself and the spirit or corpse you're trying to control, isn’t that right?

Haha! Yes, yes. I think we’ll just need one more for now.

Mo Xuanyu suddenly felt a disconnect with one of his arms. It was no longer in his control.

I can take over digging duty. Want me to try and control both? You’ll still build up muscle then!

Mo Xuanyu watched with growing exasperation at Wei Wuxian attempting to put his hand back on the spade. Do I look like someone that needs muscle? That’s for tall handsome guys like the one you ran away from.

You’re still focused on him?  Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but let annoyance bleed into his voice. Did you never hear of Hanguang-jun? He would capture us and force us to repent! I mean, we weren’t on bad terms, but seriously, he just kept saying almost whenever we met that I should go back to Gusu with him to lock me up. He would never accept our existence.

“Look, I’ve only had the ‘tender’ attentions of my uncle and my cousin the last two years, attentions I did not want for a variety of reasons. Let me have my fantasies.” Xuanyu looked over the grave they had dug up, crouching to get a better look at the corpse. “Does it matter that this one is older than the other two?”

Despicable. If Mo Xuanyu closed his eyes he could almost get the impression of the disgusted face made when Wei Wuxian thought of Mo Xuanyu’s very much not missed relatives.   … Age shouldn’t matter so long as some resentment remains. Let’s wake him up and see how he reacts.

“Hmm… Wake Up.”

Back to the topic at hand, Lan Zhan is very pretty and very upstanding. So… I guess you could do worse for a fantasy- hey!

The corpse took hold of his hand, face still limp in a death mask, but its mouth was parted and brought an awful stench across his face. Its other hand began to travel up his wrist, seeking more skin.

Wei Wuxian immediately took control of their free arm, punching the corpse’s skull with enough force to cave in what was left of their nose into the skull. Mo Xuanyu tore himself away from the touch, panic locking into his throat and chest and making it difficult to breathe. Without another word, Wei Wuxian took control of their right leg, and with cruel efficiency slammed it on top of the corpse’s head, caving the skull in and making it collapse back into the grave.

For a few minutes, neither of them spoke. Apple must have heard Mo Xuanyu’s labored breathing, and he trotted his way next to the grave to stand where he had huddled into himself.

This lead Wei Wuxian to speak up. The jackass was a better comfort than he was, how pathetic. Are you alright?

“I'm... fine. I'm fine.” If he said it out loud, maybe that meant that it would be true. Mo Xuanyu hugged Apple's neck and concentrated on the feel of the donkey's fur under his hands, of a living thing that was warm and alive and didn’t hurt him. His next reply sounded surer. “I'm fine.”

Wei Wuxian wanted to say that he wasn’t. Their heart rate and the heavy feeling still in his chest told him that more than the words, but he didn’t know if that would be wise, so he did what he had done for himself before: he moved on.  Two spirits will be enough. When you feel ready, use the pouch.

Mo Xuanyu held Apple tighter for a moment longer, forcing himself to breathe. “Right... right.”

He took out the pouch and the scraps of paper he had prepared, walking up to the two corpses they uncovered. With a few words, his eyes felt hot with the power of resentful energy, the pouch levitating slightly out of his grasp, and the papers soaring towards the targets, slapping onto their foreheads. Their bodies began to shake until the papers slid off and floated into the pouch. The spirits were transferred. With the ritual completed, and no longer housing the resentful energy necessary to retain their form, the bodies rumbled at an accelerated rate, soon crumbling into dust.

Once Mo Xuanyu sealed the pouch, Wei Wuxian spoke up once more. You did a good job.

I didn't think the last one would want to interact. With the main business sorted, Mo Xuanyu returned to exchanging their thoughts.

Who knows. Maybe the spirit was the last of his line and died without friends or family to honor him. Either way, he shouldn’t have done that.

Mo Xuanyu shrugged. Not like he's the first to try anything. He tied the pouch to his side again, surprised by the slight change in weight. Let's move on. Why did you want to go to Mount Dafan again?

Not really any set plan, but I heard from that group of rogue cultivators that it's hosting a Night Hunt. Might be a way for us to earn some money, and then go from there.

Not like I got any better ideas. And the graves?

It felt like Wei Wuxian was shrugging. Leave them, he said.

Leave them... So everyone can see that they've been dug up and looted...

Wei Wuxian looked over the three open graves. It had never occurred to him to cover up evidence of his activities. The entire cultivation world knew of his methods and based on what Mo Xuanyu had said, it wasn’t like he was the only one now. Do you really want to fill in the graves?

It would certainly mean that it will take a while longer before people realize that a demonic cultivator has gone through and alert Sect Leader Jiang. He tortures and kills people like us.

Mo Xuanyu’s felt his body go still, but not of his own volition. Wei Wuxian’s voice was measured, but the onslaught of emotions that bombarded his mind and carved a hollowness into Mo Xuanyu’s stomach gave him away. He does what?

Mo Xuanyu took a moment to choose his words carefully. Jiang Wanyin hates demonic cultivators. When he finds one, he brings them in for interrogation. Very rarely do they leave his presence alive. Control of his legs returned, so he began the tedious reburial process. Or so the rumors say.

With how cheery he could act, Mo Xuanyu had expected that when the energy Wei Wuxian brought to their shared space dimmed, he would feel a sense of peace. He didn’t. It just made everything else duller.

A joyless laugh echoed inside him. He would. He wouldn’t want to risk the chance of me returning.

This response that made Mo Xuanyu pause in his work. “I'm sorry.”

He pictured Wei Wuxian shaking his head with a forced flippantness. Don’t be. It was me who sent him on the warpath. If anything, I should say sorry to you. Staying here has made you even more of a target.

Mo Xuanyu took a few moments to wrap his head around how in the hell Wei Wuxian came to that conclusion, shoving the spade into the dirt with an unnecessary amount of force as he replied. Well, it's my mistake that fucked up the ritual, so that's my own fault. I'm still sorry. Based on your reaction... you were once close.

Yes. We were raised together. For most of my life I thought that I would always be his right-hand man, but... well, a lot of things happened that I could never take back, so I broke that promise to him. Like before, Mo Xuanyu felt it when Wei Wuxian avoided thinking about something too much and decided to focus on something else. ...You have a crude mouth, Xuanyu.

“I can be cruder if you like.” Mo Xuanyu replied in a teasing manner, before the space and the situation caught up with him, and he went back to spading dirt back over the graves.   ...Ignore that, I don't actually mean that.

Embarrassment tinged with something else flooded their consciousness but was quickly rung back in before Mo Xuanyu thought to ask. Well, let’s move on to a different topic. I’ve been rowing our figurative boat for the last few days. Is there anything you want to do once we have money?

Mo Xuanyu was reminded that he still had the “hanged ghost” makeup on, which was now cracking. I would love to get the powder off my face. And it'd be nice if...

His grip on the shaft of the shovel tightened for a moment. … If we could get a book? I used to read a lot, but haven't really read anything in two years.

Of course. Any book you want.

He hadn’t expected that sort of answer. A book didn’t necessarily keep them alive, and some of them could be expensive, but Wei Wuxian replied without hesitation. A genuine smile broke over Mo Xuanyu’s face, and it was the first that he's made since they've been together. When I pick my book, you better remember that you said "any book."

Wei Wuxian couldn’t see it, but he felt the smile, and he had an urge to ask Mo Xuanyu to go to the nearest reflective surface and smile again, just so he could see it properly. But he held that thought back. It wouldn’t make sense for him to do that.  

He did, however, laugh at the teasing. This was grounds where teasing made sense.   I am a man of my word!

Mo Xuanyu raised an eyebrow. And if I manage to find a book of porn for people like me?

Doesn’t matter to me! I mean, it can’t be that different from other pornography I’ve seen. Pornography was pornography, right? Even if it depicted two men, it wasn’t like they could do much. Hands and mouths were the only options. But then he thought more about the reason why Mo Xuanyu would desire Cutsleeve porn, and.. oh, oh! Hmm... though if you want to have “alone time” we might need to figure out a way to do that.

I’m kidding. I don’t… Xuanyu mentally choked on his words. He felt the form of what he wanted to say, but it felt too… intimate. At the same time…

Ah, you never had the chance to explore that with how hard your life was, and because you desire men. I see, I see.

Wei Wuxian did not see at all. Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes. I very much was not going to say that.

But he continued to speak in an insufferably sympathetic tone. There was nothing to be sympathetic about. You didn’t need to, I will not pass judgment.

Mo Xuanyu sighed, deciding it would be best to finish with the graves. When he was done, he pat his shovel against the ground one last time, assured the evidence was buried. Now to put the shovel back and get out of here.

Maybe I can teach you how to steal some food when we get to the next town. Wei Wuxian commented and felt the soreness in Mo Xuanyu’s body when he stretched after the tedious labor. And I know I said you could choose, but another thing to get when we have money- bandages and ointment for those cuts.

Mo Xuanyu lifted his arm to inspect the deep cuts on one of his arms and sighed when blood began to run down his forearm. Which we've reopened.

The concern hit Mo Xuanyu’s even before Wei Wuxian’s voice. Oh, no. Are you feeling ill? Maybe we should steal some clothes off a line again and make our own.

No. The dull ache returned, reminding him of the other scars scattered over his body from the ritual. None of them were healing properly. Well, yes, we should. But I'd rather we'd not be here if anyone comes along.

… Alright. Once we’re away from this village we’ll find a place to rest before nightfall. If we get enough sleep, I might be able to switch back.

After putting the shovel back in the shed where he had originally found it, Mo Xuanyu walked out of the graveyard, dragging his feet so a trail wouldn’t be so obvious on the softer earth. Apple ambled over to him from where he had gone to nibble at some grass.

Wei Wuxian let out a derisive snort. Perfectly docile for you, huh. Get on Little Apple, he can carry you for a while.

Mo Xuanyu smirked, before climbing onto the donkey’s back. He scratched at Apple's neck affectionately as they rode off.

The sun had started it’s descent when they had finished gathering information from the village of Buddha’s Feet. There were a number of angry cultivators grumbling amongst themselves about some big shots who had come to participate, and a number of the stories about the village’s citizens who had lost their souls. All in all,  it was an eventful morning for Wei Wuxian, who was in his element talking to people. His natural charm worked even on the people most reluctant to talk to him.

That charm, however, was getting him nowhere with the donkey. “Good evening, Little Apple! Mind if I take a-”

Apple moved away in a quick side step. Wei Wuxian stumbled a little, catching himself before he could fall on his face.

Mo Xuanyu snickered. If Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, he could imagine the other sitting cross-legged and grinning at him. The embarrassment was almost worth it.

Every time I try to be nice he rejects me! It’s unfair!

Well, you're not his master. And you don't know how to be nice to him.

Wei Wuxian stomped one foot. Apple sniffed at the dirt, trying to find a perfect blade of grass to eat. He’s ugly and acts like a brat. How is there any way I can be nice to him?

Don't call him ugly, for one.

So I lie?

Mo Xuanyu’s exasperation settled in their mind like a tide pool. Be like a courtesan, find something positive to say.

What is he, some young master? Wei Wuxian sighed and turned his attention back to Apple with a smile that didn’t have any bit of honesty in it. “Well, you sure have been working hard, haven’t you? Here, let me get you something.”

With a flourish worthy of a Xiqu performance, Wei Wuxian pulled out a shiny apple from his sleeve. It was the same one that a little girl cultivator, journeying with her family, had given to them.  

Apple was far more interested in the fruit than Wei Wuxian’s honeyed words and moved a little closer.

Meanwhile, Mo Xuanyu also coaxed with his words, acting as the instructor for once. This was the first time Wei Wuxian ever had this cynical a lesson on charming others. Again, think like a courtesan. Everyone is a young master or lady, if they have the money.

How would you know how a courtesan acts?!

Wei Wuxian yelled in alarm in their thoughts, but he kept the smile on his face and his speaking voice light. “That’s it, come here…”

The donkey stopped walking but leaned his head further in an attempt to take a bite, but Wei Wuxian moved it out of his reach.

“I will let you have it if you would allow me the honor to ride up the mountain on your back--”

Wei Wuxian swore for the remainder of his second life and after that Apple waited to make sure his mouth was open before he spat at his face, a direct hit in a wide spray.

I've known one.

Known one what? Xuanyu, you have to be more specific, since right now I’m hoping none of that jackass’s spit got in my mouth.

Mo Xuanyu tried to mentally shrug off the revelation. Don’t worry about it. More Jin Sect crassness... Oh, just put the damn thing on a string.

Wei Wuxian wiped the bottom half of his face, further smudging the powder and rouge. It wasn’t exactly how either he or Xuanyu wanted to wash off the makeup, but they couldn’t help that at the moment. He picked up a nearby tree branch and made a makeshift pole. It took him until he had successfully climbed onto Apple’s back by tricking him with his ‘lure’ to process what Mo Xuanyu had said. So you were kicked out of the Lanling Jin Sect!

Of all the things for him to pick up on now. ...Yes. Though Wei Wuxian had been nothing but varying levels of good cheer and nonchalance, Mo Xuanyu waited for the worst reaction. Back at Mo Village, everyone knew who his father was, everyone knew that he had been sent back a disgrace, and both facts made it hard to leave back when he had the mental wherewithal to consider it. That mental state had completely vanished in short order.

But, once more, Wei Wuxian replied in a way he should have come to expect. Well, most of them are jackasses, so good you aren’t affiliated anymore!

Did he not understand how backhanded that response was? Thanks, I suppose.

Wei Wuxian took hold of Apple’s mane to keep balance as he yanked the prize once more out of reach, making the donkey pick up the pace. You don’t sound happy. They must have not appreciated you, so why cry for them?

... My brother appreciated me. But... Things happened. The feeling of frost blossomed like so many pale flowers. I'm a bit useless with normal cultivation.

This is obvious--

You don't have to make it insulting. I know I'm a piece of shit.

Slow down there! Wei Wuxian could feel that Mo Xuanyu had not developed a golden core. That combined with the advanced age he started cultivating at put him at a disadvantage, especially for being a former member of a major sect. There is a broad and deep river between “useless at normal Cultivation” and “piece of shit”! Your technique with talismans is some of the best I’ve ever seen, and your memorization skills are top notch. Besides, you don’t need a golden core to achieve the greatest heights of Demonic Cultivation. You are filled with potential. I am not calling you a piece of shit when you are far from that!

I ... I… Confusion tangled around Mo Xuanyu’s soul like thread and laced the space with traps before he forced it away. Anyways. Because of my... lower skill, it was easier to cast me out because I wasn't as useful.

But Wei Wuxian didn’t let the comment go, not when he could tell that Mo Xuanyu wasn’t realizing what he meant. Well, they’re stupid, because you are incredibly useful! Even after the past few days, I can see that!

He continued to focus so much on making his point that he didn’t realize how much he had lowered the lure. Apple became intent on getting his treat, and broke into a full gallop, only barely passing under low-hanging branches as Wei Wuxian rambled.

Watch the donkey! Wei Wuxian, watch the donkey!!

Xuanyu, what I’m saying is important--! Before he could continue explaining how important his point was, Apple had snapped a wire that had been tied between two large trees, setting off a trap. All three were disoriented by a net ensnaring them and hoisting them into the air. “... Fuck!”

And you say I have a crude mouth. Mo Xuanyu’s tone held the same cadence as a younger brother telling their older brother that they told them so. I told you to watch the donkey. What the absolute fuck is this thing doing here?

Some rich cultivator must have set it here for the Night Hunt. Wei Wuxian replied in the manner of an older brother telling a younger brother to shove it, struggling to maintain space in such tight quarters as Apple brayed in panic. Such an unfair advantage-- “Owowow Lil’ Apple, stop struggling! You’re going to kick me!”

I'll say. When they got a closer look, Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian realized that they were trapped in a deity-binding net, a powerful and expensive cultivation tool. To have dumped that much money into a Night Hunt with something like this, it was nothing to laugh at. No wonder there was all those upset cultivators in the village.

Wei Wuxian sighed. “Looks like we won’t get our money after all. Such a disappointment.” He began to fumble for the pouch tied around the belt at their waist. A pity we have to use this one so soon, but soldier boy might be our only hope.

Mo Xuanyu took control of an arm and grabbed the bag more surely, raising it closer to the other hand for easier access.

Thank you. Wei Wuxian, despite the difficult situation he had gotten them in, smiled. He took the talisman from the pouch, then began to whisper into it. “Martyred for a thoughtless cause, a life cut young. I beg thee to make thy sword sharper than thy tongue.”

The paper talisman began to shake and gather energy, and slipped through a minute crack in the net, barely getting through before it began to crackle from spiritual energy working against it. The power Wei Wuxian imbued overcame its defenses, though. The soldier appeared in spectral form, eyes an eerie red as a long, curved-edged sword materialized in his hands. With two slashes, the net gave way, sending them back towards the ground.

Thankfully, it wasn’t that far of a drop, and Wei Wuxian was able to land well. See, no trouble at all!

Mo Xuanyu, however, thought only of their noble steed. Check on Apple. We’ll get nowhere fast if his legs are hurt.

He pouted. Didn’t he earn a little bit of praise?

Wei Wuxian looked around to find that the donkey had landed just fine. He partially hid behind a tree and snapped the stick with his hooves to gain his prize namesake.

He couldn’t help but shake his head with a smirk. “What a lucky beast.”

Luckiest donk-

Mo Xuanyu’s response was interrupted by a younger voice colored by anger and frustration.

“What happened to my deity-binding net--?! Did some idiots get trapped in there again?!”

Chapter Text

The boy stood up the mountain from them, bow in hand with an arrow at the ready and an ornate sword at his waist. His long hair was tied up and back with a gold hairpiece secured with a red ribbon, and he was dressed in gold and yellow robes that had a stylized Sparks Amid Snow peony on the chest. In all, he should have looked like a prince from an ancient tale, but he had a impressive scowl that marred the impression.

“It’s supposed to be of the highest quality-!”

“Oh, Jin Sect robes!”

Of course Wei Wuxian had to say that out loud.

That’s.... Mo Xuanyu trailed off when the boy looked right at them. The boy’s face went through a complicated twist of several emotions, the foremost of which was recognition, before landing again on a scowl.

“Oh,” he said, lowering his bow and easing on the string. “It’s you.”

Wei Wuxian pointed at his - their - face. “Me?”

“Yes, you! What are you doing here?!”

We should leave. Mo Xuanyu’s tension spread in their mind like the barest cover of frost made from dew. Now. He shouldn’t… It’s better if we leave.

Wei Wuxian nodded. He raised his arm up behind his head as if he didn’t have a care in the world. “Ah, many apologies. I’ll just be on my way-”

“Hold.” The boy bit his lip, an unconscious gesture that he turned into grinding his teeth. “Answer my question. Are you still trying to do cultivation? Even after you were kicked out? How stupid can you be! Or have you really gone as mad as you look?”

Fire burned away frost; Wuxian’s annoyance pushed back Mo Xuanyu’s anxiety and spoke for him. “What is it to you what I do? Like you said, I’m no longer part of the Jin sect.”

Wei Wuxian, be quiet. Mo Xuanyu’s voice took on a sharp edge.

The boy took half a step back, as if he was punched in the gut. He rallied though, bearing his teeth in an angry snarl. “Filthy Cutsleeve! Go get lost then!”

“My, my what an attitude.” Wuxian said in a low and dangerous purr. In another life, the boy would have been scared into submission, but this one, with half his face in weeks old makeup, the tone of his voice had no apparent force behind it. “I suppose you didn’t have a mo-”

Wei Wuxian punched himself in the face.

Or rather, Mo Xuanyu had taken control of their left arm and used it to punch Wei Wuxian in the face before he could finish speaking.

SHUT UP! That is my nephew, Jin Ling! You do NOT TALK about his parents! They’re dead! And unlike us they aren’t coming back!

Wei Wuxian’s  immediate reaction afterwards was to defend his intended action. And I was just supposed to stand by and let him insult you?! Fuck, my - our - nose is bleeding!

He raised a sleeve to wipe away the blood, and even in the forest twilight, blood and dirt stains from the past few days stood out against the black cloth.

The youth’s anger ebbed as quickly as it came up, confusion and concern taking its place. Committing violence to himself in this way, it wasn’t like the uncle he remembered. Maybe Mo Xuanyu really had gone mad? Softly, barely above a whisper, he called out.

“...Uncle?”

Mo Xuanyu raised the arm he had control off, warding off Jin Ling’s question and silently asking him to wait. I don't care if we're in the same body, you hurt him, I hurt you. He's my nephew. That matters. ...Tell him that you're fine.

In the days since they left Mo Village, Wei Wuxian had watched this twitchy rabbit blossom into a particularly grumpy cat. Now that cat was showing he had claws: determination and a rage so cold he burned. No wonder he had the fortitude to go through with the body offering ritual.

“I’m fine, Jin Ling.”

He had spent too much time underestimating his tenacity, but as he wiped away the blood, the full brunt of Mo Xuanyu’s words hit.

...Jin Ling, if he’s Jin Ling, his other uncle is—

“Jin Ling, what are you doing just standing there? You need to be on patrol, or were those nets I got you a waste?”

Through the bushes came a man. He held a close resemblance to the boy, not only in looks but in how they held themselves with a mixture of arrogance and overconfidence. The difference was he wore the deep purple robes of the Jiang Sect, with a bell tied to his belt that gave off a faint chime as he walked into the clearing. Wei Wuxian felt like his feet had turned to stone, rooting him to the spot as he saw the last man he had ever hoped to meet in this new life: Jiang Cheng.

Mo Xuanyu’s voice had lost some of his frost when he spoke. That is why I said to leave.

Jin Ling tentatively stepped towards his maternal uncle, and in doing so he partially blocked his view of the paternal uncle’s form. “Uncle, I… I had seen another one of the nets were broken, so I had come to investigate. It must have been a faulty one-”

“Faulty?” Jiang Cheng’s voice took on a sharp edge, his eye turning to the remnants of the deity-binding net around Wei Wuxian’s feet, then his gaze trailed up. Wei Wuxian kept his shoulders back, staring back at inspection, though with the edge point of his eyes trained on him, many other men would have cowered in the face of Sandu Shengshou.

For now, Jiang Cheng, though his expression was certainly aggressive, was not hostile. If anything he was a bit curious.  Deity-Binding Nets were known for being unbreakable except by a few methods, and this stranger didn’t look to have any bladed weapons, let alone any magical item that would have been able to overpower the spells and powers entwined into the weave of it. He stepped closer, coming through the moonlight like a wolf stalking something to find out if it was prey or not.

Wei Wuxian stood his ground, not moving. A small kernel of hope, fragile as dawn light, curled into life around Mo Xuanyu. Maybe, maybe they could get away without Jiang Cheng realizing, without him noticing…

The hope was for nought. Jiang Cheng’s eyes fell on the talisman that held the soldier ghost, fluttering around the tree, and summoned it to him with a crook of his finger and a pull of spiritual energy. It only took a glance, and the aggressive curious expression became outright hostile. The talisman burned in his hand. The soft tortured screams from the ghost came over the wind. Inwardly, Mo Xuanyu flinched.

“Jin Ling!” Jiang Cheng shouted. “What have I told you about this practice? You kill the demonic cultivator and feed him to your dogs!”

Now Wei Wuxian backed up. Even if Jin Ling was reluctant to attack them, having Jiang Cheng there backing him up and insisting on it changed the playing field. It was only a matter of time for one or both of them would draw their swords.

There was a flash of solid moonlight. A silver sword buried itself between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling. It was remarkably thin, but the shockwave it made on contact with the ground betrayed how heavy it was. Being as weak as their body was from their wounds and from travel, Wei Wuxian tripped backwards and landed on a pair of boots. The sword he instantly recognized as Bichen, which meant that the boots had to belong to… He slowly looked up from the snow white boots, to the equally pale uniform, and stopped at the familiar statuesque face of Lan Wangji. It was surprising how, even up close, his face looked like it was carved out of a single piece of white jade. With how beautiful his face was, it was almost unnerving how his eyes seemed to convey so little emotion, as if they too were precious stones.

Lan Wangji looked down on him, his face impassive, and stepped past, lifting Bichen from where it was standing in the ground, and sheathing it as he did so. He transferred his gaze to Jiang Cheng. It was as if a wall had formed, invisible to the naked eye, but none dared to cross the line of it.

Jiang Cheng’s hostility shifted back, now just simmering below the surface of his eyes, but only just. With the tension in the air, even a stranger could tell that there was no love lost between these two cultivators. “Hanguang-jun, so you live up to your reputation of being ‘wherever the chaos is.’ So you had time to come to this remote area today?”

Wei Wuxian took the chance to get to his feet as the tension between the two held, with the two juniors from earlier following after Lan Wangji.

The loud one fired back a quick retort, “Isn’t Sect Leader Jiang here as well?”

Jin Ling made a quick shift of his eyes to his uncle, and Wei Wuxian watched how the corner of Jiang Cheng’s eye gave off a slight twitch as he made a gruff comment about improper conduct.

Lan Wangji, however, remained unmoved. He didn’t try to correct his charge or to defend the Lan Sect’s standing. It was as if such petty digs were beneath him. His eyes turned to the calm disciple, who stepped forward with a polite bow, and spoke to Jin Ling, following the proper form of conduct in such situations, as they were both younger disciples of their respective sects. Honestly, the calm one was the only one in this clearing following protocol.

“Young Master Jin, Night Hunts have always been a chance for fair competitions amongst the different clans and sects. However, the amount of nets…”

Jin Ling cut in, crossing his arms.The evening so far had put him on edge, and he was in no mood for a lecture. “So what if we put four hundred nets up? Each cultivator uses the tools at their disposal. I will send apologies once I capture the prey.”

Wei Wuxian nearly stumbled back to the ground. Four… Four hundred deity-binding nets. It was remarkable that it took so long for Apple to be captured!

If Jin Ling was about to say more, however, he was prevented from doing so. He dropped his bow to pull at his face, but no matter how hard he tugged, his mouth remained sealed. Not even small grunts of protest could pass through. Wei Wuxian winced, feeling a small stab of sympathy.

The Lan Sect’s infamous silence spell. Used to discipline unruly students. I know it well. Wei Wuxian didn’t receive a worded response, but agitation made his stomach flutter, and he knew that it wasn’t from him. Don’t worry, it won’t hurt him.

His face is handsome, but does that really give him a reason to discipline outside his sect?

That response made Wei Wuxian let out a small laugh. See? Handsomeness isn’t everything. However, I wouldn’t expect him to be this willful.

His laugh, unfortunately, brought Jiang Cheng’s attention back on them. “You think this is funny, do you? How would you like it if I found another way to keep your mouth shut?”

The calm one stepped in front of Wei Wuxian and continued to speak, “Sect Leader Jiang, there is no need for anger. As long as he does not try to forcefully break the spell, it will be lifted in thirty minutes.”

It appears that today’s events were all conspiring to add more vinegar to the jar that was Jiang Cheng’s being, because a man in the Jiang Sect uniform emerged, revealing after a terse response from his sect leader that all, and the sect member meant all , of the deity-binding nets had been cut down by a blue sword. Only one sword, one that gleamed and gave off a blue-tinged light even in darkness, could have done it. Lan Wangji was truly much less rule-abiding than before, to go to such lengths to antagonize someone!

Jiang Cheng’s gaze turned back to Lan Wangji. His left hand reached for the ring on his right index finger, and Wei Wuxian’s eyes narrowed when he saw the faint sparks of purple energy come off of it. There was no way he wanted to deal with Zidian in a place like this. Yet as quickly as it appeared, his allowed his hands to fall back to his sides,  fully considering the consequences of attacking the second young master of a prominent sect, especially one whose fighting prowess was a match for his.

He turned back to Jin Ling with sarcasm lacing his voice. “Hanguang-jun deems it necessary to discipline juniors from other clans. Let it this one time, and perhaps it will pass on to others.”

Basically, Jiang Cheng was saying the most he could to insult how Lan Wangji handled his own juniors without making a direct insult. Still, Lan Wangji didn’t rise to the bait. His gaze even shifted away from Jiang Cheng, looking off at a measured distance.

Lan Zhan… he is being rather disrespectful… We Wuxian told Mo Xuanyu weakly.

Jin Ling was also not paying attention to his maternal uncle, who had spent a hefty coin in getting those nets for him. His eyes were still set on Wei Wuxian… or rather, on Mo Xuanyu. His eyebrows furrowed and nose scrunched up, like he wanted to say something, but the silence spell prevented him from doing so.

Jiang Cheng scoffed as he picking up his nephew’s bow and shoved it back into his hands. “What are you doing standing around? Do you think the creature will come to you now? If you don’t capture it now, don’t come to me for anything again!”

Jin Ling’s eyes blazed at this ultimatum. He saluted the two seniors before running back into the forest. The calm one spoke up once more. “Sect Leader Jiang, the Lan Sect will recompense you for the exact number of deity-binding nets destroyed.”

“No need,” Jiang Cheng sneered. Like he would ever accept that. It would make Lotus Pier lose face if they couldn’t handle losing those nets. He stalked off with the sect member following behind like a dog with its tail between its legs.

The calm disciple turned back and gave a small smile to Wei Wuxian and a small bow. “Young Master Mo, we meet again.”

Now this was how a proper disciple should act. Wei Wuxian smiled and bowed back, but then flinched as he felt his stomach burn. The cuts again, how frustrating.

The calm disciple’s expression of soft pleasantness shifted to concern. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. Must have landed funny is all.” Wei Wuxian reassured him.

“I apologize,” A voice-- smooth, deep, and alluring-- said to his left. Wei Wuxian turned to Lan Wangji, giving the proper deep bow to a high-ranking cultivator. When he raised his head again he continued to try and keep the placating smile.

“No apologies necessary! It’s an old wound. Many thanks for your help,” Wei Wuxian replied.

The two disciples appeared… confused, hearing their elder’s voice. Lan Wangji turned to them. “Do your tasks.” Then, seeing as they both waited respectfully for further instruction, he continued. Wei Wuxian thought it could have been exhaustion playing tricks on him, but he thought he heard the voice go even softer.  “Do what you can. Don’t force anything.”

Both juniors gave the proper salute, before taking off into the forest. Lan Wangji’s gaze turned back to him, and he had to bite the inside of his mouth to stop his jaw from dropping, when he gave him a small nod. Wei Wuxian immediately returned it with another salute, and felt the slight brush of cloth pass his arm. When he looked up again, Lan Wangji had disappeared.

How strange… Usually people aren’t that nice without prompting or wanting something in return. Mo Xuanyu’s agitation still fluttered in Wuxian’s stomach like so many bees, but it was less now, from other reasons.   Let’s grab Apple and get out of here, before Sect Leader Jiang remembers that he turned his back on a Demonic Cultivator.

Wie Wuxian nodded and found where the donkey was munching on some grass, blissfully unaware of, or ignoring, the dire straits that had only barely been averted. How nice it must be, to be a donkey and only have to worry about where you’d get your next bite of perfectly colored grass. He took his reins and lead Apple down the mountain.

He took a different path from where they had come up the slope, not that he could say what path Apple ran up while Wei Wuxian was arguing with Mo Xuanyu. Eventually, they came on a small stream that looked clean enough.

Wei Wuxian kneeled beside the stream, and scowled. They looked ridiculous. What remained of  hanging ghost makeup was either flaking or smeared, making it look like half of their face was sagging off. Without prompting, he cupped and handful of the water and began to scrub and wipe the cosmetics away. His nose ached from the punch, and he was about to comment to Mo Xuanyu about having another injury, when he paused, letting the water droplets slide from his fingertips.

The face before him could only be summed up as ‘exquisite’: the graceful slope of the brow, the curve of his mouth and how the locks of hair framed his heart-shaped face. Naturally dark pink lips brought a splash of color to the youthful countenance, which were now parted. The pale skin made the silvery eyes Wei Wuxian had first seen less dramatic but not less beautiful, and without the rouge he could better see the framing of long lashes around them. He was a being washed in moonlight, with promises of a gentle night all locked in his features.

“Oh, what a nice face.” Wei Wuxian said.

The grey eyes rolled, Mo Xuanyu exerting a little bit more control, but there wasn’t any true negativity behind the gesture. If you way so.

“I do say so.” Wei Wuxian brushed a finger against the bridge of their nose. “Thank goodness it isn’t broken. If this was swollen, it would throw the prettiness off.”  

Not like I’m strong enough to hurt anyone that much.

Despite the crankiness in Mo Xuanyu’s mental voice, Wei Wuxian smiled, and couldn’t help but to admire the smile that was in the reflection on the river some more. “I compliment you and the first thing you do is find a way to make it an insult.”

I’m still not happy with you. If Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, he could imagine a blush covering Mo Xuanyu’s face, present despite all attempts to not be affected, and the image filled him with an overwhelming delight.

“If I slapped myself for what I did, it would only hurt your face, and this body feels like it can’t stand much more hurt.” His voice took on a more gentle tone. “... But you have every right to be not happy with me, when I was so close to hurting Jin Ling.”

Though he needed no air to speak, Mo Xuanyu’s voice carried a sigh underneath his words. Just finish washing the paint off.

Wei Wuxian did what he was told, but the cool water made him shiver, and he quickly wiped his hands on their trousers before resting in a more comfortable position in the grass. He took in the hands in front of him: he hadn’t realized how finely shaped they were, but that was to be expected, with the skill Mo Xuanyu had with crafting talismans. You needed quick fingers for that work. However, the skin was mottled with slowly healing bruises and little cuts. These hands had been through much more than Wei Wuxian could have known.

For his part, Mo Xuanyu was tired. As much as he felt that he had to do something to stop Wei Wuxian from making a huge blunder, it didn’t stop the hurt that had pricked his heart. Jin Ling had to do a certain amount of following the crowd to ward off minor fights with the other Jin Sect juniors, but Mo Xuanyu hadn’t realized that his nephew could say “Cut-sleeve” with that much disdain. He deserved Wei Wuxian’s initial reaction. But after that? Knowing how Wei Wuxian figured into the deaths of Jin Ling’s parents? Mo Xuanyu wished for a moment that he was in control, heaving a sigh would feel so cathartic. Instead, he imagined sitting down back to back with Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian startled, his heartbeat going up when he felt-- well, felt wasn’t the proper word, but more sensed , the feeling of someone else’s back pressed against his. “Xuanyu? Xuanyu, I can… I can feel you! I think, but how are you doing that?”

I just... wanted to sit. You can feel me?

“Yeah! This is amazing!” Wei Wuxian physically leaned back, only to fall onto the ground, but he didn’t find it in himself to care. “Oof, hahaha!”

Mo Xuanyu was able to shake their head, at least the closest approximation he could control that gave off the emotion of  reluctantly fond exasperation. Now I've lost the feeling. Sit back up properly.

“Yes, sir.” Wei Wuxian sat back up, letting his eyes narrow with an ease of contentment. Even if they were still exhausted, and had nothing but an unfaithful donkey to either of their names, he felt at ease. His shoulders relaxed as he waited for the feeling again.

There was a moment of nothing, and part of him was nervous that it had been a fluke, before once again, Mo Xuanyu's back rested against Wei Wuxian’s. His heart settled at the feeling, while Mo Xuanyu continued to speak, trying to convey the mix of emotions that encounter with Jin Ling gave him. I'm not happy with you, but I'm not too mad at you. Okay?

“... Okay. I will find a way to make it up to you.” Wei Wuxian frowned, determined even more to do so after this. When was the last time he felt someone’s back rest against his? A simple connection with body language, but one that showed trust and support. Even if it was a phantom touch, it made his heart lighter.

But Mo Xuanyu took control to shake their head again, this time in refusal. There was no use of thinking about who owed who when they shared the same body. Anything that was good for one was good for the other, and bad otherwise. Don't. Let's just try to move forward. Like thinking on what our next steps are. Do we go back and try to find some prey for the Night Hunt? Or solve the mystery of the soulless people in the village?"

Wei Wuxian’s fingers played with the grass along the streamside. If they were a bit thicker, he might have tried to make a grass whistle. “I think those two go hand in hand. There was no smaller prey captured around here, which could mean whatever is causing the soulless people in the village might be strong enough to have scared anything else away.”

And assuming that no smaller beings had been captured in any of Jin Ling's nets. I can't believe that his uncle set up four hundred of those things.

“I can’t believe Hanguang-jun cut them all down.” Wei Wuxian replied. “Jiang Cheng probably shows affection like that. Didn’t you notice how he was concerned about Jin Ling, even with those harsh words?” He let out an exasperated sigh. “Still so sour with his words when his actions don’t match up.”

Probably... Mo Xuanyu tried to move his thoughts away from that.  To him, Lan Wangji and Jiang Cheng were two handsome and well-renowned cultivators, but they were also strangers. He didn’t find it worthwhile to think about the underlying intentions of their actions, even if Lan Wangji’s actions before were… peculiar. Better instead to dwell on people they could understand, and perhaps aid. ...What about that dancing girl?

Wei Wuxian cupped his chin, taking on his go-to thinking posture as he considered what they had learned back in the village. “The locals talked about a temple in the mountain, of a goddess dancing, that people go and pray to. I think our investigation will be more fruitful if we take a look at this goddess.”

Have to go find the temple first.

Suddenly, the peaceful ambiance of the stream was brought into turmoil by a strange sound. It was almost like an earthquake, making faint tremors in the ground, only far more concentrated, with earth colliding with earth, in the direction of the cave, where the goddess’s temple resided.

...Or something could find us.

Chapter Text

Jin Ling was furious.

This was not a rare occurrence by any means. There was plenty of things he found in the world that made him go into a foul mood, but usually, he could yell about it, or hug Fairy until he calmed down. But being on this ‘mountain’ in the middle of nowhere gave no such option. The damned Lan clan’s spell was still working, and Fairy was left at Lotus Pier. Though already a keen spiritual dog, it would take some more years for her to grow to her full strength, and he didn’t want to risk her getting injured during the Night Hunt…

One of his first Night Hunts, and he was already a failure. Maybe he could excuse himself with the shock of seeing his youngest uncle after two years of silence, but that just made him angrier. He kicked at a nearby tree trunk, the force of the blow sending off pieces of bark to the forest floor. Mo Xuanyu was kicked out of the Jin Sect. That was not something Jin Ling had the power to control, and the terms of his crimes… they had not been something he, even as the future Sect Leader, could have defended him from. But because of that, was that why he had treated him so coldly? Because he had done nothing to help him in his time of need?

Jin Ling took a deep exhale through the nostrils, falling back on the breathing techniques his maternal uncle had taught him. They were supposed to calm your senses, allow you to retain focus, but sometimes he wondered if that worked for Uncle or not. His hand rose up, and gently fiddled with the end piece of his hair ribbon, a gold drop for decoration. He pinched and worried the metal against his thumb and pointer finger, trying to calm himself.

After a minute of doing this silent form of meditation, he opened his eyes, and then his mouth, taking in a deep inhale and exhale of breath, before running ahead, where he could see the lights of talismans just entering a cave.

Lan Jingyi gave the compass of evil a gentle shake, even resorted to talking to it in a coaxing manner to give them a better idea of where the creature could be.

“Come on… sooner we check this area the sooner we can get out and look somewhere else. It would be nice if you worked with me here.”

The scent of earth and candle wax made his nose itch, and he had sneezed multiple times since coming inside. “I don’t know how you could be used to this, Sizhui.”

Lan Sizhui smiled gently at his fellow sect member’s grouching. Though they both took pride in appearing well-kept, he personally didn’t feel much abhorrence to their surroundings. Besides, he always took the smell of incense as a scent of comfort, which overpowered the dank of the cave. “It's more that I can ignore it.”

The taller of the two junior disciples tilted his head to the side to inspect the goddess statue, and his eyes narrowed. Meanwhile, Lan Jingyi sniffled and turned away from the scattered ashes of leftover incense. “You’d think if they loved this goddess so much they would clean up once in a while... what are you looking at?”
Lan Sizhui pointed up.

“It looks like she's smiling, but there doesn't... appear to be any tool marks…”

“Oh, here.” Lan Jingyi lifted his talisman higher on his tiptoes to give some more light. “I thought the people at Buddha’s Feet said that this was a natural rock formation, well, ignoring the other myths... do you think it was here before?”

Lan Sizhui shrugged. “It is a natural formation, but one that looks like, well... a dancer. It likely was here before there was a village.”

“It’s only a stupid rock!” An irritated voice bounced off the walls. Lan Sizhui supposed they had been here longer than first thought if the silence spell wore off. He knew Hanguang-jun had reason to do so, but it still left him slightly unsettled that his guardian would decide to take that step.

Lan Jingyi, on the other hand, felt no such sympathy. He had been on the receiving end of the silence spell enough time to find displeasure in it, but only when used against him. “You could show some respect.”

Jin Ling stepped closer into the talisman light, the fire making the gold ends of his ribbon shine and attract the eye. His expression, however, was sour. “Why should I? It doesn’t have feelings.”

“No, but it's been treated with respect and given offerings. At the very least we should be careful.” Lan Sizhui’s attention shifted from the statue to the young master of Koi Tower. This was the first time he and Lan Jingyi had spoken to Jin Ling, though he had seen him at tournaments before. He was usually beside his maternal uncle, instead of amongst the Jins entourage. Perhaps that is why they seemed so alike in mannerisms.

“It didn’t give any intervention when seven people lost their souls in this backwater, why would it listen now?” Jin Ling passed Lan Sizhui to get a closer look, glaring haughtily at the face. “Let’s see if you really can do anything: I pray to you as well, goddess, that the soul-consuming creature on Dafan Mountain shows itself to me, right here and now.”

Lan Sizhui let out a small sigh. Nothing good could come from this. “Young Master Jin, I don’t think… I don’t think that was a good idea-”

The statue’s face changed again. He was looking at Jin Ling, and only saw from the corner of his eye, but he knew he saw something. “-Jingyi, Young Master Jin, did you see that?”

“See what?!” Lan Jingyi turned around almost violently, trying to look at the statue. Despite being trained as a cultivator since a very young age, Lan Jingyi had always had a fear of ghosts. That something could be possessing the statue and making it’s face move was enough to make him thoroughly frightened, and his friend’s insistence didn’t help at all.

Suddenly, both flame talismans extinguished.

Lan Jingyi screamed.

Jin Ling reached out for the closest person, which was Lan Sizhui, and put a hand on his shoulder and leaned in to speak, voice losing its cocksure tone and growing more urgent. He sounded like the teenager he was.

 “Can you get him to calm down? Look, sorry for— for saying that, but I need to find this thing. And we’re going to get nowhere like this.”

Lan Sizhui put his hand on top of Jin Ling's, to double-check where he was. “Jingyi, try lighting it again.” He tried his own talisman, and it weakly lighted again, and with the new light, his eyes immediately went back to the goddess. “The statue changed.”

Jin Ling was shocked for a moment, and his initial gut reaction was to pull away, but he stayed put and looked up. “You’re right! Its arms moved!”

It was only then that Lan Jingyi relit his talisman, and he was faced away from the statue, closer to the foot of the altar. “S-Sizhui, I don’t want to be here anymore. H-Hanguang-jun can make me write lines, I don’t care, I just don’t—”

With the light of Lan Jingyi’s talisman, both of the other boys saw the goddess smiled again, only this time turning into something far more... sadistic. Her arms twisted and began to reach for the boy below.

“Come here, idiot!” Jin Ling removed his hand and immediately readied his bow with three arrows and fired them beside Lan Sizhui in rapid succession at the goddess’s head.

Lan Sizhui drew his sword, holding it in a guard position and stepping back from the statue as it starts to move, his free hand grabbed more talismans. “Jingyi! Come on, let’s move out!”

“R-right!” Lan Jingyi ran forward, also drawing his sword. One arm reached out for him, but Lan Sizhui smacked it back with the flat of the blade. He took that opportunity to run towards the cave wall, jumping off against it to make an acrobatic move and settle on his sword. Now airborne, he sped forward and grabbed the backs of Lan Sizhui’s and Jin Ling’s robes. Those years of writing lines while doing a handstand didn’t fail him now!

“I can’t aim!” Jin Ling yelled.

“You can outside!” Lan Sizhui countered, relaxing until they flew out of the mouth of the cave. Once there, he flipped out of Lan Jingyi’s grip and ricocheted off a tree. He landed with grace, sword at the ready as he waits for the statue.

Jin Ling had a less graceful landing, struggling out of Lan Jingyi’s hold and stumbling to the forest floor, but he turned it into a roll and knelt, bow poised for another attack. Did his previous hits do any damage? Perhaps it did, and the goddess was already defeated.

However, such thoughts were dashed as multiple pairs of arms grabbed the cave mouth edges, making the stone crack and crumble, and the goddess pulled herself from her centuries-long home and into the world with the same bloodthirsty grin on her face. The arrows had no effect.

The sound of her emergence, however, had alerted other cultivators in the area. In a short amount of time, a dozen people charged in from the forest, with more following behind. In their desperation to claim the coveted bounty, they paid little mind to Lan Jingyi, still hovering on his sword, making motions to not come any closer. Lan Sizhui attempted to force the goddess back into her cave, sending out his readied talismans, but they fizzled on impact.
The goddess bat the unlucky souls who got too close with a simple wave of her arms. She hit them with a sickening crunch before they made contact with tree trunks or skidded to the ground. Lan Jingyi went down to tend to the injured and get them away from the warpath. Meanwhile, Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling took to opposite sides to keep her distracted.

His uncle’s last words to him continued to ring in Jin Ling’s ears. Before anything else, he had to prioritize being the one to kill the creature, he had to-!

Amongst the controlled chaos, a single talisman fluttered along the night breeze. The sound of whispers hovered in the air, almost a chant.

“A thirst never quenched, a hunger never sated, keep this foe of mine abated.”

The talisman landed on the goddess’s back, and in its place a large, rotund man appeared, his weight bringing her to her knees. Though it impeded her movements, her arms continued to try and reach out for purchase or for another victim.

We made it! Mo Xuanyu exclaimed in triumph as Apple galloped into the clearing.

Lan Sizhui’s mood immediately brightened at the sight of the man and donkey, and he took the chance with the statue occupied to run and meet them. “Young Master Mo! I thought you left?”

“Didn’t think I should leave quite yet, even with Sect Leader Jiang out for my hide.” Wei Wuxian pulled back on the reins to control Apple’s movement.  “I needed to prove my theory, and... well, this does!”

He gestured to the struggling goddess, whose stone jaws somehow snapped towards him. “A soul-eating goddess is what has been terrorizing the people here, brought divinity by their wishes. Everyone needs to keep their distance with attacks, and this gives us some opportunity!”

It was then that Mo Xuanyu took control of their neck to search the clearing, voice urgent. Where's Jin Ling?

They now saw that Jin Ling had moved to a low tree branch to gain a higher vantage point, continually firing with furious accuracy that did nothing to bring the goddess down. Wei Wuxian had a quick thought on just how many arrows Jin Ling still had in his quiver. Ah, there he is.

Mo Xuanyu’s tone took on a hint of pride. He’s gotten a lot better with the bow…

You can praise him later.

Lan Sizhui nodded, but then gestured to the dozen or so cultivators still standing. Lan Jingyi had gotten the injured at that point a distance away. “Right. But what about everyone else?”

Wei Wuxian took the chance to hop off Apple, giving the donkey’s hindquarters a smack to send him off, before cupping his hands and yelling at the others. “All of you need to get back, run away! This is too much for any of you to handle!”

Jin Ling paused, his gaze finally moving away from the goddess to Wei Wuxian. His eyes widened, and his firing halted. After a brief moment of deliberation, he jumped from his perch, before running over to their little group. “Why don’t you listen to your own advice! Like you’re any better against this thing?”

Jin Ling’s refusal discouraged the other cultivators from running. The promise of glory was too high, now. Some even pointed at the spirit, still diligently doing his intended purpose.

“Isn’t that a type of Demonic Cultivation?!”

“Great, evil attracts evil!”

Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. They pointed out something like that without seeing how it was saving their skins. Typical. Nevertheless, the spirit would lose power soon, and then the full brunt of the goddess’s fury would be unleashed. They needed stronger cultivators for back up. He looked at Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling. “Send out signal fireworks.”

The two juniors faces morphed to fear and anger respectively.

“We used the last one at Mo Village,” Lan Sizhui replied weakly. They were hardly ever necessary, so many Lan disciples only carried one set between them.

Jin Ling, however, objected. “But-!”

“Listen,” Wei Wuxian replied, his voice growing more urgent as he talked to Jin Ling. There was no way that he could let his martial sister’s kid get hurt, and Mo Xuanyu carried the same and slightly different urgency: Jin Ling was his blood, and despite the coarse words, he cared for him. He had to try and find a way to keep him from making a mistake that he couldn’t run away from so easily. “You will have more chances to prove yourself, but this thing is far above your level of cultivation. It is not some creature or evil spirit, but an actual goddess fed by centuries of wishes. Sect Leader Jiang and Hanguang-jun are the best chance we have before it starts to move up from souls to flesh. Send out any you have, right now!”

Jin Ling looked at him again, his jaw going slack, before turning his head away. “You don’t know anything, why should I listen to you!”

Wei Wuxian wanted to scream out in frustration, but decided to do something more productive, and turned back to Lan Sizhui. “Any more flame talismans?”

Lan Sizhui checked his sleeves for his supply. He had already used a large portion. “I only have a couple more. What is Young Master Mo thinking of doing?”

“Burn the perimeter around the goddess. It might not stop her, but it will dissuade cultivators from getting too close.”

Lan Sizhui wasn’t sure that it would be a good idea, but he didn’t have any other ideas. “Alright, I’ll get that set up. The fire should alert Hanguang-jun.”

He called out a short code phrase to Lan Jingyi to let him know their plan. Since they had been made partners for assignments, they had begun to use codes they made up as young children to alert the other or give an exchange that couldn’t readily be understood by others. It… technically did not break the rules, to do this. Lan Jingyi nodded, running on the opposite side of the clearing and unleashing his own flame talismans. Lan Sizhui mirrored him in movement, sending bolts of spiritual energy towards them all. In less than a minute, flames erupted around the goddess as she struggled back to full height. It was big enough to be readily seen from Buddha’s Feet, that he could be assured of, even if how it happened was a bit odd.

That some odd Lan sect secret language or something? Wait-- ugh, idiot-!

However, Jin Ling had run through before the ring of flame connected, his sword drawn. The goddess succeeded in throwing off the spirit and noticed prey that would be easier to snatch up. An arm reached for him, and from what one could see through the flames, Jin Ling barely dodged away from the attack.

“Hey, stupid, didn’t you hear what he said?!” Lan Jingyi yelled.

“Shut up!” Jin Ling screamed, but before he could say more, he had to dodge again.

Shit! A shot of panic going up his spine. He didn’t stop to wonder if it was his or Mo Xuanyu’s before he reached over to unsheathe the sword at Lan Sizhui’s waist, then hacked off a stock of bamboo.

“Hey!” Lan Sizhui cried.

“One moment please!” Wei Wuxian was furiously trying to whittle in record time with a cultivation sword, and it was difficult.

A flute? Will it be in the key you need? Mo Xuanyu asked, but he kept trying to turn their head back to Jin Ling. The panic was getting stronger.

As long as it’s me playing, they’ll have to obey no matter how awful it sounds. Wei Wuxian wished he knew where his flute, Chenqing, was, but it was probably destroyed years ago. No use crying about it, he would have to make do.

Seeing that all the Yang energy being thrown at the damn thing isn't doing a thing, even when Jin Ling got in a great shot... You're going to summon ghosts or fierce corpses. Yin energy to combat the Yang energy.

Your reading has taught you well, Xuanyu. Wei Wuxian complimented, finishing the last notch and handing the sword back to Lan Sizhui.

He brought the newly fashioned flute to his lips and began to play a broken but urgent tune. All the while his mind was racing. There has to be something, anything close enough that can get here fast!

Despite the flames, some cultivators were circling the ring, attempting to find a way through the spiritual flames, as Jin Ling fought for his life. Wei Wuxian could faintly hear Lan Jingyi screaming about ‘terrible flute playing,’ before, suddenly, all went still. Noises were coming from the distance.

The sound of earth moving.

Of trees breaking.

And among them both a faint tinkling sound, like small coins being knocked together, but it grew louder, closer, with each passing second. The goddess paused her onslaught and turned towards the noise. As she turned, a figure leaped from the treeline, and made impact with the goddess’s head, sending it off with a crude crunch from her neck and into the flames.

In the firelight, they could still see the head smiling, but all of her arms were reaching to the crudely broken neck as if attempting to understand what had just occurred before trying to capture her assailant. The figure used one of their chained arms to knock them back, the force of it making the same quick work of it as the head. In a few moments, he ripped the goddess apart as if her statue-form was made of wax, until nothing but the core, formed with the souls she had eaten, remained.

When the flames died down during the scuffle, all that was left was broken stone, and a blank-faced man dressed in rags and heavy iron chains, skin mottled gray and covered in dark veins. When Wei Wuxian saw his face, he knew who it was. Yet, before Wei Wuxian could gather his thoughts, Mo Xuanyu interrupted with his own and made everything more confusing.

Oh, gods, how did he get out?

What the fuck do you mean ‘he got out?!’ I thought he was burned to ash, but he’s- he’s... Wen Ning, what happened to him?!

Wen Ning’s eyes were vacant and unfocused. Without an enemy in front of him, his gate was stumbling and poor, as if he hadn’t walked in many years. He was completely unaware of where he was.

Mo Xuanyu was focused on other things, his thoughts racing. He should have been chained... he broke the chains. The locks on the ground were treated with special seals, and he broke them. How strong is he?

Incredibly strong. But that strength was nearly always tempered by his disposition. Here, there was nothing but the sound of a roughly carved flute to keep him under control. Too strong for any of these cultivators to handle, and how did you know he was still in this world?!

Since no one but Mo Xuanyu could read his thoughts, many cultivators didn’t understand how futile a task it would be to go against Wen Ning. All of them were beginning to talk about prizes for the Ghost General, not even thinking to question why a long thought destroyed ‘monster’ of the cultivation world was walking around. Lan Sizhui attempted to stop them, but he was also shocked by the evening’s turn of events.

Including Jin Ling, who as soon as he saw Wen Ning had gone stone still. It made sense. How does one react to seeing their father’s killer whole, when you were taught since you could speak that he had long since been burned to ash? Then he readjusted his sword and charged forward.

Wen Ning caught the sword between his bare hands before Jin Ling could strike. Pushing the momentum of the swing back against him, the force was strong enough that Jin Ling was flung high up into the air. Both Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu nearly screamed, only to watch him be caught by Lan Jingyi on his sword.

“I need my sword! It’s my father’s sword!” Jin Ling screeched. “I need it!”

“You’re welcome!” Lan Jingyi replied with obvious sarcasm, then flew them off to the side, the other teen still struggling in his arms.

Wei Wuxian turned back to Wen Ning, now surrounded by many cultivators and doing the same technique to deal with them as he had with Jin Ling. He now had one by the throat, and Wei Wuxian felt his blood run cold.

Wen Ning, no! He sent off a screeching command, and Wen Ning dropped the cultivator, but he still was out of it. He wouldn’t listen to verbal commands like this.

You’re controlling him aren’t you? Think! We could never-- Mo Xuanyu stopped his immediate thought process, and shifted. He shouldn’t die again, here. He can’t die here.

I know! I… a song, any song, a song to calm him down… Wei Wuxian brought the flute back to his lips, and played once more. Where the previous notes were shrill, this one was vibrant and gentle. The slight broken warble of the flute made it imperfect, but the sentiment came across. It was a song that was as comforting as someone humming as you went to sleep.

Wen Ning turned to them, and slowly, slowly, began to creep forward on shaky legs, the jingle of his chains as they dragged along the ground playing accompaniment. Wei Wuxian stepped back, coaxing him back into the forest.

Wei Wuxian felt more energy seep through him and move into the song. Mo Xuanyu offered his own flow of energy, combining them to make the song gain more power. Wei Wuxian felt his eyes grow hot with the extra resentful energy transferred, and it seemed to make the song project further.

The change made Wen Ning pause, his melancholy face still vacant, but his lips began to move, attempting to form words that wouldn’t come, and his hand reached out towards them “...”

However, Wei Wuxian had been too focused on the song; he hadn’t sensed where he was walking back. He only caught the scent of sandalwood, before being fully enveloped in it, his back hitting against a firm, unyielding surface, and felt fingers grip his wrist and wrench it away from the flute, abruptly cutting the song off.

When he looked up, he saw Lan Wangji, his eyes widened as he took a sharp inhale of breath. His gaze wasn’t focused on the other cultivators, or even Wen Ning: just them. “...!”

Mo Xuanyu’s concentration shattered. No, no, no-

Wei Wuxian legs nearly gave out as cracks, almost like lightning, hit their shared consciousness. It was enough that, for once since he woke up in this body, he couldn't reach Mo Xuanyu, and that made him panic.

No, no, no. Wei Wuxian thought, and he froze for a moment, looking at nothing and trying to cross the mental gaps, until he felt the grip loosen, just enough for him to break free. He sent out an urgent tune. Go, go far away! As fast as you can!

Wen Ning obeyed; he could do nothing else. He turned, and set off, faster than any living human, even a skilled cultivator, could hope to follow. Still, many of the cultivators tried, running after him.

As soon as he was gone, Wei Wuxian shoved Lan Wanji’s shoulder, Mo Xuanyu’s panic still clouded his thoughts. Lan Wangji went with the movement. But even without him close, Wei Wuxian still felt hands, hands, too many hands--!

There are hands everywhere, touching softly, touching harshly. His wrist felt like it was immersed in boiling oil, even when no one is touching him--

Mo Xuanyu couldn’t really be touched in their shared mind space, but it didn’t make the feelings go away. He was fractured, broken, and there was no air to sob or scream.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t feel anything but the faintest sense of Mo Xuanyu. He was obviously in pain, and Wei Wuxian had to be the one to get them to safety. He turned back and forth wildly, searching for the donkey, until he saw him just ahead, in another clearing. He began to run for it. Xuanyu, I’ll get us somewhere safe, don’t worry. I’ll get us out--

Zidian crackled as it struck their back. Purple lightning coursed through their body. Wei Wuxian did not scream, used to the pain, but Mo Xuanyu did. His soul was pushed forward, just as Wei Wuxian’s was forced back. They tumbled to the ground. The forest was silent except for the continued crackling of Zidan, and Mo Xuanyu’s hard breathing. He couldn’t fill his lungs, even though every breath forced his chest to expand and contract fully. A chunk of ice seemed to have replaced his heart and he couldn’t stop the shaking of his limbs. The cuts on his chest and stomach broke their scabs and started to bleed again.

Wei Wuxian panicked again. Shit! They hadn’t changed control like this before and he didn’t know what he should do to help. What he could do.  Xuanyu, it’s okay, you’re okay--

--Jiang Cheng could not believe his eyes. He was certain that this was Wei Wuxian. But Wei Wuxian would not act like this. And yet… And yet, no soul had been forced out of the body. It had to be Wei Wuxian. He moved forward, but once again Lan Wangji stood between him and his… and his…

“He is a demonic cultivator.” Jiang Cheng finally bit out. “I will take him with me to interrogate him.”

A whimper sounded between Mo Xuanyu’s harsh breaths. To be interrogated by Jiang Cheng meant being taken away and to not come back. He didn’t want to die. Wei Wuxian, I don’t want to die...

Wei Wuxian did not know what to do. Mo Xuanyu’s continuing panic fueled his own. Every time he tried to make some facsimile of a comforting touch, Mo Xuanyu would twitch and shudder as if he could physically get away from something within his own head.

“You do not have authority here.” Lan Wangji’s voice cut through the other sounds like a sword through the water. His guqin was held at the ready, one hand placed on the strings. “This man is injured. He needs medical attention.”

Jiang Cheng’s eyes narrowed. “Injured?”

“There is blood on his clothing. Wounds on his chest and stomach have reopened. If you take him, he will die. I cannot allow that.”

There was another impasse between Lan Wangji and Jiang Cheng. Neither was going to give ground to the other’s desire for the fate of Mo Xuanyu.

“Uncle,” Jin Ling’s soft voice managed to carry over the continued rough sounds of Mo Xuanyu’s ragged breathing. “Please, let’s just go. It’s... it’s not him.”

Mo Xuanyu had bent into a fetal position, holding his head down between his knees. The only thing he concentrated on was the pace of his breathing, how much air he took in and how fast. It was all that he could concentrate on. To focus on anything else renewed his shaking and the tearless sobbing that threw his breathing out of sorts; too fast and not deep enough. There was no way he could gather the concentration to defend himself.

“Mo Xuanyu is crazy, but he’s not a threat,” Jin Ling continued, pressing on despite the two fierce looks that turned his way from Jiang Cheng and Lan Wangji. “Please.”

Jiang Cheng fisted both hands, Zidian transformed back into it’s dormant ring shape with a flash of purple light. “We’re leaving.”

He turned his back on the group of them, expecting Jin Ling and the other scattered Yunmeng Jiang sect members to follow. They all did, through Jin Ling gave one last lingering look over his shoulder at Mo Xuanyu before he jumped on his sword and flew off.

The three Lans stood around Mo Xuanyu.

“Young Master Mo…?” Lan Sizhui was the first to take a step closer to Xuanyu, a hand reaching out to touch his shoulder.

“Don’t!” Mo Xuanyu said, scrambling backwards on his hands away from the impending touch until he couldn’t anymore. He ran into a tree. If it had not been there it would not have been surprising if he had run away. His breathing had gone off tempo again, quick and high in his chest. “Don’t, don’t touch me. Just... leave me alone…”

“Wow, Sect Leader Jiang really frightened away whatever wits he had left.” Lan Sizhui gave Lan Jingyi an unimpressed look for the comment.

Lan Wangji stepped forward. Not caring about the potential for dirt staining his robes, he knelt on the ground and placed his guqin across his knees, and began to play Clarity with gentle picks and strums. His eyes didn’t leave Mo Xuanyu, watching how he reacted. The song drifted into another, still as calming and gentle, but not the song for Clarity. It drifted back to the first song after a few measures.

Through it, Mo Xuanyu stayed curled up against the tree, his head between his knees. I’m sorry , he thought at Wuxian. I’m sorry, I’m sorry…

It’s okay. We’ll find another way. Wuxian said. He couldn’t keep the gratefulness out of his voice that Mo Xuanyu was finally more aware of what was around him instead of stuck in the loop of fear. It’s my fault we’re in this situation.

I’m useless and I should have done… something, I’m sorry, I’m sorry…

Don’t call yourself useless when you’re not. We didn’t know what was going to happen when Zidian hit or when Lan Zhan grabbed us.

Mo Xuanyu wiped his face with his hand. He did it a second time and finally looked up at the three Lan Sect members. Why were they still here? It didn’t make sense, there wasn’t anything to gain. He pushed himself up to his feet, bracing on the tree behind him for leverage.

Lan Wangji stopped playing as Mo Xuanyu rose. He put his instrument away before standing. “You still have injuries that need treatment. We cannot allow you to go alone,” he said.

Xuanyu crossed his arms over his chest.

“We will take you back to Gusu and when your injuries are healed…” Perhaps it was a trick of the moonlight, but it looked like Lan Wangji had swallowed around something painfully solid before he continued to speak. “You may go wherever you wish. You have my word that you will not be detained.”

What other options did they have? Their wounds were healing so slowly, hindered by how often they reopened them. This Night Hunt was a failure in terms of getting money for supplies. They’d be dead in a couple of days if they went on as they had. Unacceptable. “Anything is better than a leaky shed with a flap in the door to push food through. Be careful, Hanguang-jun, I might overstay my welcome if you treat me too nicely.”

Wait. What?

Lan Wangji’s eyes widened just a fraction, as surprised by the agreement as Wei Wuxian.

Xuanyu bowed, picture perfect in it’s formality except for the wince as his injuries tugged on themselves. “My name is Mo Yi, courtesy name Xuanyu, formerly of the Lanling Jin Sect. I am willing to go to Gusu.”

“... Mn.”

Waitwaitwait??

Chapter Text

Lan Jingyi pulled over a reluctant Apple as Lan Sizhui collected the core of souls, and gently placed them in a spirit-trapping pouch. As a cultivation tool, it would allow them to be transported safely back to Buddha’s Feet. If their bodies were still intact, they should be properly returned once the soul was presented with it, and if not, a local priest would be able to offer them proper rights and send them off into the afterlife. Either way, it was a far better fate than being consumed to power a bloodthirsty goddess. Mo Xuanyu had a stray thought as he watched these events: if someone compared the situation he was in with Wei Wuxian, who would be the core, and who would be the goddess?

Xuanyu, we are neither.

Mo Xuanyu sighed. It was just a thought.

You’re being morbid. We could be thinking about other things, like how we will get out of the situation your formal introduction has gotten us in.

When Apple realized that Lan Jingyi was taking him to Mo Xuanyu, he became far more docile. Lan Wangji held out his hand to Mo Xuanyu, probably to help him onto the donkey’s back. Mo Xuanyu took a step back from the hand, and leaned Apple as they walked. The donkey shook off Lan Jingyi’s grip on his bridle and leaned into Mo Xuanyu’s touch. Both beast and master made it clear they wanted no physical assistance.

Lan Jingyi gave Lan Wangji a quick bow and jogged a little ways up ahead to walk with Lan Sizhui. Lan Wanji kept pace with Apple, but made sure there was a clear amount of space between them. Mo Xuanyu continued to watch him from the corner of his eye as his discussion with Wei Wuxian continued.

We wouldn't make it far. We have no money, no food, and no paper or ink or anything to make talismans. We don't know when that whip's magic is going to wear off. Make the best of it, Wuxian.

Hmph, sure, sure-- wait, did you just call me by just my courtesy name?

Mo Xuanyu’s tone turned more defensive. It’s easier, you do the same.

B-but you gave them an all formal and nice introduction! You refused to tell me your birth name when I asked!

Because he knew even then that Wei Wuxian would get too familiar and use it to talk to him, and he didn’t want that then. Now… he still would rather not, but he didn’t mind as much. I didn’t know you then, not really. Now I do.

...You’re still too injured to argue with right now. So I’ll drop this, for now. Mo Xuanyu felt his cheeks heat up, but he knew that it wasn’t from him.

The two juniors were whispering to each other up ahead, but Mo Xuanyu could only catch the phrase “we aren’t allowed to gossip,” and he decided instead to focus on something that brought him some pleasure. He looked over at Lan Wangji fully, his face stern as he seemingly evaluated the strange cultivator in a thousand different ways. Really though, he was just enjoying the sight of something pretty after an otherwise shitty day. “... Thank you.”

Lan Wangji’s head turned to look at him instead of having Mo Xuanyu look at his face in profile. His light pink lips part, as if to say more, but then he pressed them together again with a small nod. “Mn.”

Mo Xuanyu turned back to look ahead, trying not to focus on the lips. He could appreciate the whole, but looking at particulars was dangerous. He babbled to Wei Wuxian to try and move his thoughts away.   Also, we’re not running away because it’s been two years since I’ve seen a handsome man of class, and tonight I’ve seen two, even though one of them wants us dead.

He could imagine the miffed “harumph” Wei Wuxian give if he could in their thoughts. What does that make me then… I’m not ugly, I’m actually pretty handsome…

Not that I’d know. Hard to judge when I can’t actually see your face. Give me this, Wuxian, we’ve had a shitty day.

Fine, let me know if you need anything. His voice took on a teasing lilt. I’ll leave you to bask in Hanguang-jun’s light.

He would ignore that dig, and continued to explain himself to Lan Wangji. “You didn’t have to help me, I know what w-- what I am,” He gripped Apple’s mane tightly, feeling the thick hair against his fingers. “But you did, and… thank you.”

Maybe that wasn’t that clear, but that was the best he could come up with.

Lan Wangji took a moment to consider the words before he replied. “You helped Sizhui and Jingyi. Gratitude.”

“Ehhh, I didn’t do much,” Mo Xuanyu couldn’t really claim credit for that. It was all Wei Wuxian, but he certainly couldn’t say that. Better to change the subject. “About how far is it to Gusu? Farther than Koi Tower?”

“A week, on foot. Farther than Koi Tower.”

Mo Xuanyu considered this. It was farther than he had gone in some years, but with Apple it could be manageable. “Okay.... okay. I think I can do that.”

“Go at your own pace.”

That was probably supposed to be reassuring, but it made Mo Xuanyu think of the alternatives. Of experiences he had never had.

“Normally you’d all be on your swords, wouldn’t you.” Mo Xuanyu replied, somewhat wistfully.

“It’s not safe,” Lan Wangji replied, but there was an untold pause in his words that Mo Xuanyu waited for him to finished. “When you are well.”

Mo Xuanyu shrugged, trying his best to seem nonchalant. “Probably not safe for me, even when I am better. I can’t do anything with a sword… I spent eight years studying in the Lanling Jin Sect, but it was never an option for me… is there something wrong?”

Lan Wanji’s frown had deepened while Mo Xuanyu had talked, but it relaxed at the question. “Nothing. You father… was Jin Guangshan. Am I correct?”

Mo Xuanyu’s face immediately went flat. Any good feelings he had were pushed to the side. This was where it came. The judgement, the blow. Well, he would get there first, he thought with a nasty smirk.  “However did you guess? Yes, I’m one of his many bastards.”

Lan Wangji, strangely, did not appear affronted by the sudden shift in his behavior, his head tilted, as if considering his next words more carefully. “Young Master Jin is your nephew. He was worried for you.”

Oh. That was how he put things together. That was… different.

“He’s a good kid,” Mo Xuanyu countered. “... I punched myself before I could say something stupid, and he had to witness that. Probably thinks I’m even more disturbed.”

A small wave of shame passed from Wei Wuxian to him, and Mo Xuanyu returned it with forgiveness. Too much had happened for him to be mad about it anymore. You didn’t know it was him.

I was still about to do something foolish.

Well, maybe that’s the reason I’ve had to stick around. Someone needs to remind you when you are being silly.

“... Punch…?” Lan Wanji gestured to his own head.

“Not the worst I’ve dealt with,” Mo Xuanyu shrugged again, now wanting to just drop the topic. It was hard, trying to find one he was fine with staying on. Maybe it would be better not to talk.

However, Lan Wangji did something that was, again, unexpected. He took two small bags from his sleeve, and held them out between them. If Mo Xuanyu reached out with his arm, they would easily drop into his hand. “Herbs, and bandages.”

Wei Wuxian was dumbfounded. Lan Zhan…

Mo Xuanyu didn’t reply. He only stared at the offered pouches for a good long while, before he reached for them, and tucked them into one of his sleeves.

Wei Wuxian continued. He’s being… oddly gentle? I mean, he was a decent guy before, but this is… strange.

Mo Xuanyu decided it would be better not to think about that difference any further. He didn’t need another panic attack tonight. We’re taking advantage of that for now.

It was then that his body decided to betray him again, and he tripped, having to clutch to Apple to stop himself from falling. He swore under his breath. Lan Wangji reached out a hand, before he quickly lowered it.

“... Sit.”

Mo Xuanyu grimaced as he caught his breath. The cuts burned too much. “Hanguang-jun, young disciples, forgive me, but I need to rest for awhile.”

Lan Wangji nodded and walked up ahead, to assist the juniors in setting up a perimeter. They would rest on the mountain that night. Mo Xuanyu lowered himself to the ground, and Apple followed. One they were resting, the donkey nudged at Mo Xuanyu’s hand for more pets, and Mo Xuanyu hugged Apple’s face to his chest, heedless of the blood. Apple struggled at its scent, but then huffed, and closed his eyes. Mo Xuanyu soon followed, Wei Wuxian’s stray thoughts lulling him to unconsciousness.

Huh, an animal is strangely soothing.  

Jiang Cheng got rooms for himself and Jin Ling in the inn at the town. The name of the inn escaped his memory for the moment, and didn’t matter. He had been certain. So certain. Yet… He knew Wei Wuxian. No matter how much the man had loved a good prank, no matter how thick his face was, he’d never cower and cringe like that, no matter what else was going on around him.

Shit, he needed a drink.

He told Jin Ling that he was going out and that he wasn’t to leave the inn.

What Jiang Cheng had expected was for a soul to pop out of the body, the host to act properly horrified, or even thankful, and to trap Wei Wuxian, finally. It had been thirteen years, many people had thought him insane for continuing to look for his soul even after all the other attempts to contact Wei Wuxian had proved fruitless at best, and outright failures at worst.

He thought of the simple black flute that was at Yunmeng. The red tassle had faded in color over the years, same with the jade pendant that hung from it. That it hadn’t been covered in dust was due to Jiang Cheng being fastidious about his own space and cleaning it himself whenever he took it from his hiding place to contemplate the missed and broken opportunities.

Jiang Cheng tossed back the small jar of alcohol like it was water and moved onto a second.

Wasn’t that just typical of Wei Wuxian? Causing problems for him even after he was dead. Deciding that he was just happy in the body he was possessing. It had to be him, It had to be. Didn’t matter what Zidian had not done. It had to be him. The problem was just how to prove it to more than himself.

Jin Ling found the order from his uncle easy to follow. It wasn’t like his night could get any worse. The Night Hunt was a failure from his perspective, even with the defeat of the prey, and when the reappearance of his youngest uncle and that beast Wen Ning were added in it was better to consider this a disaster. It was easy to get angry. There had been so many people and things interfering. He could say that it wasn’t his fault, could lest all the things done by other people, but that didn’t matter. Jin Ling had not taken down the prey. Jin Ling had allowed himself to be distracted by too many emotions. Jin Ling would need to make up for it.

For all that the disaster had rocked him, even the appearance of Wen Ning hadn’t shaken him in the moment as much as seeing Mo Xuanyu had. His hate for the thing that killed his father was an old emotion, present since he was born. What he felt for his uncle was far more confusing.  

On the one hand, he was angry. How dare Mo Xuanyu treat him like that, as if they were strangers? Equally fierce was the knife sharp relief that he was alive. When Mo Xuanyu had been thrown out of the Jin sect two years ago, Jin Ling had been in Yunmeng. It was as if his youngest uncle had been there one day, holding a stack of books and scrolls that threatened to topple on his head but still finding enough time to talk with him, and gone the next.

No one would tell him anything. The only reason that Jin Ling had found out he was truly gone and not just stuck in the library was because of how the other juniors had sneered about the cutsleeve getting what was coming to him. It was easier to keep silent, and go with the crowd. Maybe… maybe he shouldn’t have.

From the window of the Inn, jin Ling watched the road to the mountain, waiting to see if the cultivators from the Lan sect would pass by with Mo Xuanyu. He fell asleep at the windowsill, and missed Jiang Cheng coming back and putting him to the bed.

The next morning, Mo Xuanyu had decided to accept help from Lan Sizhui in bandaging up his injuries. Yet, perhaps it was more accurate to say that Wei Wuxian had accepted the offered assistance.

Wei Wuxian.

Wei Ying.

Wei Ying was back.

After the flute song last night, Lan Wangji would have recognized him anywhere. Even in a different body, with a different face and a different voice, he knew it was the man he had pledged his heart to years before, who he had almost accepted he would never meet again in this life. And now… he was back. Lan Wangji’s first desire was to drop to his knees for him, to pledge that he would do what was in his power to help him, to keep him safe. However, the joy from this realization was tempered by the fear in his- in their - eyes, when he had caught his wrist. Wei Wuxian wasn’t the only one who was there, and the conversation he had had last night had proved it. The mannerisms, the movements, even how they interacted with the donkey, they were completely different.

The other man was Mo Xuanyu, the outcast and sole survivor of the Mo family, who he had spoken to the night before. It was surprising, how simple it was for him to tell when it was him or Wei Wuxian. They both had a penchant for vicious words and sarcastic remarks, but Mo Xuanyu seemed far more brittle. When Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi had told him that one member of the family survived, he had asked them to look for him for questioning. Though the arm was a far more sinister and powerful creation than anyone had expected, some procedures had to be taken. Lan Sizhui had given Mo Xuanyu the benefit of the doubt, telling Lan Wangji that the man had tried to assist them, despite the further harm it entailed to his own person, and vouched for their capability.

However, when they went to search for him, they came back saying no one was there. Lan Wangji found that odd: if Mo Xuanyu had been involved with the deaths of the Mo Family, surely he would have wanted to reap the reward as its sole survivor. Instead, the man had stolen a donkey and fled.  It didn’t match up.

Lan Wangji’s gaze turned back to watch as Wei Wuxian removed the upper half of his garments, and his breath caught in the throat. Not only where there wounds on their chest, stomach, and arms but a multitude of older cuts and bruises were littered across the skin. Many of them were in the gray and yellow stages, and old faded cuts that had long become scar tissue, nearly matching the regular shade of his pale skin. However, there were a few darker bruises along this ribs… like he had been kicked.

A sudden flash of anger welled up before Lan Wangji could push it to the back of his mind. How cruel was this family to one of their own, after he had been cast out of the Lanling Jin Sect? He had a long-standing grudge against them, after their past actions before and after the siege of the Burial Mound, so he abstained from going to conferences at Koi Tower unless his brother needed assistance. Lan Xichen discussed once that Jin Guangyao had complained (not that he said “complained,” his brother used more euphemistic language) about Jin Guangshan accepted another illegitimate child not long before his death. However, he hadn’t heard any more news of them afterwards, or perhaps Lan Wangji simply hadn’t paid attention to any gossip about the events which lead to Mo Xuanyu being sent back to his maternal relatives.

Either way, it added more to the urgency of their task. Even if Mo Xuanyu had a background in regular cultivation, his core hadn’t formed enough to accelerate the healing of his injuries. He could also sense the remnants of resentful energy that could have also prevented the more recent cuts from healing properly. Most cultivators never had to deal with simple wounds and bruises, but if left untreated, there could be more disastrous effects. Their body was also almost unhealthily thin, almost as much as Wei Wuxian’s was when he lived at the Burial Mound. He would make sure to get extra supplies at Buddha’s Feet, and maybe they would stop at some inns on the way, to get them more well-rested. Even Lan Wangji could admit, the Cloud Recesses meals, while bracing and filled with the necessary nutrients one needed, it did not promote natural vigor. Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu would need more fortifying meals if they were to regain their strength. The situation would have been easy if he could transfer some of his own spiritual energy through touch, but after the look of fear in Wei Wuxian’s expression, and Mo Xuanyu’s obvious phobia of touch, he didn’t want to push any more boundaries he might have already.  

He wouldn’t make the same mistakes as before, this time around. Even if it hurt, to think about Wei Wuxian leaving again, this… this was fine. And, at least in this situation, he technically would not be alone. This new life would… always be shared. Wei Wuxian had a tendency to desire to look after his own, which meant that he would try to take better care of himself. Lan Wangji simply needed to provide the necessary care for that to happen.

As long as he knew Wei Wuxian was in the world, was alive, and they could cross paths once more, he would be content. Lan Wangji could be content with that.

Wei Wuxian’s gaze flitted towards him, after finishing a small exchange with Lan Sizhui (oh, how… how would he tell Wei Wuxian? Could he tell him the boy’s identity, without giving away he knew Wei Wuxian’s?), and he caught his stare. Lan Wangji remained still: would he look at him with fear, or scorn, or… with no emotion at all--?

Wei Wuxian smirked and sent a wink his way, before going back to taking with Lan Sizhui. His hand pinched his thigh, and he squawked in complaint.

Lan Wangji went back to his morning tasks, keeping his head down to hide how pink his ears were.

Chapter Text

Once they reached town, Lan Wangji gave instructions to the juniors on how to return the souls and gave them some extra money to pick up what they wanted at the market. “Meet back in an hour. Need to start moving before it passes midday.”

Both juniors bowed and set off, showing giddiness in their step and movements. Buddha’s Feet wasn’t especially large, but he recalled how Lan Jingyi had wanted to try some local cuisine.  The Night Hunt had taken precedence though. His gaze turned from them back to Mo Xuanyu tying the donkey to a nearby post. Once more, the two had switched again, judging by how the animal was reacting.

“Now you be good, and bite anyone that tries to steal you, okay?”

It huffed but gave Mo Xuanyu’s hand one last nuzzle of reassurance.

“Good donkey.”

Lan Wangji waited patiently and began to think more about the necessary supplies he would need to acquire. He and the juniors at their level of cultivation didn’t require three meals a day when traveling, but Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian sorely needed it. He would need to bring extra for days they couldn’t stop at inns.

After petting him one last time, Mo Xuanyu trotted up to Lan Wangji. He crossed his arms over his chest, bringing the bandages on his arms into view. He still looked guarded and didn’t keep eye contact with him for long.

“... You didn’t have to wait on me, Hanguang-jun.”

Lan Wangji shrugged. “Want your input on purchases.”

Mo Xuanyu didn’t seem convinced of this, but Lan Wangji wasn’t sure what else he could expect. Would it have been better for them to go with the juniors, but then he brought his hands forward and counted on his fingers. “Does it help us get places faster, more securely, and more comfortably? If yes, get it. If not, then don’t.”

Lan Wangji took time to consider the list. He could purchase horses to go faster, but that would mean abandoning the donkey, something he didn’t think would go well as a suggestion. Besides, the possibility of tough riding would aggravate their wounds. “We will walk. Already know inns to stay at along the way. Been some time since I was in this area, but they should still be there. Looking for supplies on nights we cannot.”

Mo Xuanyu nodded. “Then… could we also get paper and ink?”

Lan Wangji was confused for a moment, but then recalled that Lan Sizhui mentioned spirit talismans during last night’s fight. “Talismans?”

Mo Xuanyu shrugged, attempting to look nonchalant. “The other two used a lot in trying to corral the Dancing Goddess, so…” He shrugged again.

Lan Wangji blinked, and he felt that he understood Mo Xuanyu a little more now. Despite his confusing manners, he was… kind. “We can purchase some. They will be thankful for your generosity.”

Mo Xuanyu gave him a confused look. “It's just remaking what they used.”

“Usually have a supply at the Cloud Recesses, or replenish themselves. Lightening their load.”

“They're far enough along to make their own talismans?”

Lan Wanji was about to reply that they began to learn the designs during their sixth year of training and then how to prepare them, but then he remembered that Lan Jingyi nearly burned his eyebrows off last month trying to create a flame talisman. “... Work in progress.”

“Why do I have a feeling that there is a story in there?”

As they walk through the market stalls in search of a paper and supplies maker, he told Mo Xuanyu the story. “Sizhui had a jug of water ready, so it was fine.”

Mo Xuanyu shook his head, a small smirk playing up his face, but this one was much less sharp than the one the night before. “Good thing he has a minder then.”

“En.” Lan Wangji was glad that the pair got along so well. They were close even as children. Lan Jingyi was the first friend Lan Sizhui made in the Cloud Recesses. Other children were told to keep their distance, but Lan Jingyi crossed any invisible barriers that had been set to try and keep them apart. Another example of Lan Jingyi’s eccentricities, but ones that complimented Lan Sizhui’s tactical capabilities. It had helped them so far, and would only grow stronger as they had more practice. “Good teamwork.”

“...” Mo Xuanyu averted his eyes again as his fingers tangled together. “... I may have kicked him. Should probably apologize at some point.”

Well, that was an unexpected confession. Then again, Lan Jingyi said he lost his outer robe during the fight at Mo Village. “Reason for no outer robes?”

Mo Xuanyu blushed. “Yes. Intercepted the hand.”

“Hm,” Mo Xuanyu’s face looked much more healthy with the pink added to his face, and he spent a moment thinking about that instead of a proper response. “...Better the robe than either of them. Smart.”

Mo Xuanyu looked to the side, giving the ground an unimpressed expression. “It wasn’t much.”

Lan Wangji had a feeling that he wasn’t the one Mo Xuanyu was speaking to, so they continued the rest of the way in silence. When they came to the stall, he nodded to Mo Xuanyu. “Take some for them and yourself.”

Mo Xuanyu spent the next ten minutes looking over the wares carefully, once more having an internal debate, probably with Wei Wuxian. The paper, ink stick, brush and inkstone he chose were not the most expensive but were the best for a decent price.

As he focused on making the right purchases, the stall owner kept flashing glances at Lan Wangji. He noticed the pristine white of his sect robes and the cloud-patterned ribbon above his brow and knew for a fact that this was a rich cultivator who was obviously spending for someone else. An easy target to make some extra profits on. At least, that is what Lan Wangji thought when the stall owner raised the price almost double to what the materials originally would cost.

But instead of going through with the offered price, Mo Xuanyu set his items down and threw his shoulders back, glaring from his side of the table.

“Bullshit.”

Lan Wangji’s had to keep his eyes on Mo Xuanyu’s hands for how much they moved, pointed and pressed together as he bartered with (well, perhaps bullied) the store owner. It reminded him of a fan dance, but instead of sweeping gestures they were closed in and precise, each one hitting a bullseye that only the vendor could see.

The vendor stroked their beard and gruffly asked for the normal price. Lan Wangji nodded, setting the proper payment on the table. Mo Xuanyu took the materials and stalked off, leaving Lan Wangji to follow after him. Was this really something to get upset about? Things like this happened to him often enough that he didn’t see much use in arguing. He would either pay the offered price, or he would leave if he thought they were too unreasonable.

When he caught up, Mo Xuanyu’s brow wrinkled while he was muttering to himself. “I didn't think that the rumors would have gone out this far…”

“Rumors?” Lan Wangji asked.

“I’m a bastard, I was thrown out of my former sect, and I am thought to be insane. No one likes me. He probably thought I was enough to make some quick money off of.”

Lan Wangji considered this. He didn’t think news of the cultivation clans would travel this far, even with the Night Hunt. He shook his head. “No, happens often, to me. Charge too much, or try to give too much. It’s strange.”

Mo Xuanyu gave him a strange look. “...Hanguang-jun, you shouldn’t let people take advantage of the fact you’re a rich young master and don’t know anything about how regular people live.”

Wasn’t he the one blaming himself only a moment ago? How did he have such a long description prepared? Lan Wangji assumed Wei Wuxian helped, and sighed. “More trouble than it’s worth to change their minds.”

“But you’re being cheated.” Mo Xuanyu insisted.

Honestly, when it came to things like vendors in towns, being cheated by them didn’t mean much. “They require money more than I do.”

“...” Mo Xuanyu pinched the bridge of his nose, and Lan Wangji is confused about what he did to aggravate him now. “... Okay, true, but still. You shouldn’t pay more than you owe someone, shouldn’t take more than what you pay for.”

Lan Wangji tilted his head, unknowingly making the sunlight catch along strands of his hair. To an observer, namely Mo Xuanyu, that made everything worse.

(His expression was blank, but he was currently shouting at Wei Wuxian about how the fuck could one person look that pretty and intense all at the same time.)

“... Teach me, if you want to?”

“I don’t know if we’ll have time while heading to Gusu.”

Lan Wangji felt his hope deflate slightly. Mo Xuanyu was right, but he was intrigued now. He wanted to learn how to haggle, even if it was only a little. But, he also wanted to spend as much time as he could with Wei Wuxian. Had Wei Wuxian helped with the vendor? He used to haggle in Yiling… so it would be spending time together, learning from both of them? “...Only as much as you wish. Will try to self-teach after.”

“You anticipate us still traveling together after Gusu?”

Lan Wangji felt his heart catch in his throat, preventing him from clarifying. He quickly began walking to the next stall they need to stop at. That… that wasn’t his intent! It wasn’t! And now instead of explaining himself he was running away and acting like a fool!

“... Just something I would like to learn,” he mumbled.

Mo Xuanyu watched as he hurried off, too far to hear what he said. “...Too fucking pretty, to fucking intense, and too fucking strange…”

Lan Wangji was taking his turn on night watch when he heard groaning from the far corner of their makeshift camp. He immediately reached for Bichen but paused when he pinpointed the source. Mo Xuanyu was groaning out in his sleep, as if in pain, and shifting back and forth to shake off a pursuer. Lan Wangji watched, not sure how he could interfere without potentially making the man’s nightmare a reality. It was nearly painful, watching him toss and turn, only then to curl in on himself, whispering a chorus of “don’t, don’t.”

A minute passed, and the body went still, before sitting up. Lan Wangji averted his eyes, trying not to give away that he noticed, but his gaze shifted to peek and was surprised. The man in the blankets gathered his loose hair and tied it into a high ponytail, instead of a messy bun. The one who had the nightmare wasn’t Mo Xuanyu, but Wei Wuxian.

Regardless of Lan Wangji’s tact, Wei Wuxian had noticed his shift. Lan Wangji heard a theatrical yawn, then a voice that was starting grow familiar to him call out. “Not sleeping on the job, are you, Hanguang-jun?”

Lan Wangji took this as an invitation to turn around to see Wei Wuxian step out of his sleeping bundle and finish tying up the red ribbon. He wanted to ask him if he was alright, but that would give away that he was watching. “I am awake.”

“Yes, I see that,” Wei Wuxian replied, settling next to the dimming campfire. He fished one of the flame talismans Mo Xuanyu made earlier that evening, and with a few whispers, it ignited and brought life back to the flames. “Surprised. I heard all Lans have a strict sleeping schedule.”

“Dangerous to sleep without a lookout.” Lan Wangji turned back to his regular post, trying not to focus on how the shadows hit Wei Wuxian’s face, making him look less a man and more a spirit just emerging from the darkness. He should not think like that, not when he had so little time with the love of his life before he disappeared, again. “Juniors need more rest than I do, still growing.”

“What a responsible guardian.”

Wei Wuxian, just like when they were young, gave compliments that sounded more like teasing that admiration. It was so different from the last time he saw him. It made Lan Wangji feel a lightness in his chest, to be able to experience that again. He wished that he could offer the same to Wei Wuxian. He wanted to ask him so many questions, but he knew that that would bring up an equal amount of problems in turn.

Lan Wangji quietly called back, “You need rest, too. In your condition.”

“I’m not tired.”

The reply held a defensive edge and was far too fast for it to be the truth. Both of them knew that, but Lan Wangji didn’t comment.

“As you say.” He replied calmly, then settled back into his watch. The only sounds after that for some time was the common sounds of the wilderness at night, the crackling of the fire, and Lan Jingyi’s and the donkey’s snores. The moon was ebbing away from view when he heard footsteps from behind him. Wei Wuxian stepped over the log Lan Wangji was sitting on and settled at the opposite end. It was short enough that if he raised his arm out, he could touch him. He didn’t.

“Mind if I sit here for a bit?”

“Don’t mind.”

Wei Wuxian laughed. “Hanguang-jun you’re still--”

Lan Wangji felt his heart leap. Would he tell him--?

But then he coughed and changed his tone. “I mean, you don’t talk much, do you?”

“...En.” He kept his response curt to mask his disappointment.

“Hm, see, like that. I’m sure that you have much more to say. Why don’t you?”

“...” Lan Wangji turned to Wei Wuxian, an eyebrow raising in question.

“Right, right, stupid to ask without providing a topic. How about… why didn’t you let Sect Leader Jiang cart me off? You didn’t have to dirty your hands with someone like me. You could’ve just thrown a couple of coins at me and left me on the mountain, too. It wasn’t any of your business.”

But it was. It was all ‘his business,’ or at least he wanted it to be. He could say why, but the words wouldn’t come out right. Sometimes, he thought they never really did when he was around Wei Wuxian. But then, he thought back… when Mo Xuanyu was stressed, he played his song for Wei Wuxian. Even when the knowledge that he played it for Wen Ning sent a wave of almost suffocating jealousy over him, he had responded. That was his sign that he recognized him, that he knew it was Wei Wuxian, and of his oath of devotion. Though Mo Xuanyu had heard, that song was always for Wei Wuxian. Even if he didn’t feel the same, his feelings would never change.

“Already told you why, at Dafan. No need to repeat myself.”

Wei Wuxian snorted. “Hm, still so quiet. Very well, very well. Others will come to… interesting conclusions, from that.”

“Don’t mind.”

Wei Wuxian rested an elbow on his chin, looking unconvinced. “You really don’t?”

“Why would I lie?”

Wei Wuxian considered this and then smiled. Even in a different body, he had the same smile, and Lan Wangji wanted nothing more than to make sure it never disappeared. “...Yeah. You wouldn’t. You aren’t that kind of guy.”

Before they could talk more, the sounds of Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui waking up, and Wei Wuxian went over to verbally prod them into alertness, leaving Lan Wangji to do his best to commit Wei Wuxian’s words to memory, a simple response, but one that gave him hope that maybe, maybe, the love of his life didn’t hate him.

They made it to the next town sooner than Lan Wangji anticipated, even with Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu slowing them down. Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi gave him twin questioning looks once they reached its outskirts. He nodded. Exploring the town wouldn’t be too much of an imposition on their journey.

Once again, Mo Xuanyu - and he could tell that it was Mo Xuanyu in control again, Wei Wuxian seemed to like to give the other man as much time in full possession of their body as possible - was walking with him, his expression a hair less guarded compared to the last two days. They passed a sweet vendor who carried a whole display of bright fruit pieces on sticks, glazed in a hard sugar coating. To Lan Wangji, it seemed like Mo Xuanyu was going to pass it without comment, except that his stomach decided to speak for him, growling loudly enough that even Lan Wangji could hear. Mo Xuanyu blushed. The color highlighted his cheekbones, making him look less gaunt in the sunlight.

How endearing. Was that the appropriate word to describe the warmth that had formed in his chest?

“What would you like?”

“I don’t need anything Hanguang-jun…” An annoyed looked covered Mo Xuanyu’s face. It passed into some other emotion that had him chewing on his bottom lip. “Nevermind. Some tanghulu?”

Wangji bought two sticks, giving one of them to Mo Xuanyu. It was an interesting piece of food. The hard coating on it was shiny enough to glare at him, as if accusing him for not starting to eat it immediately. He looked over at Mo Xuanyu. The other man had already eaten two of the round hawberries and was moaning in pleasure.

“Good?”

“Been a while. Used to have these whenever I could as a child.”

“Mn.” Lan Wangji looked at his portion of tanghulu again. He had never had this before, but had bought it once or twice for Lan Sizhui when the junior was younger. With trepidation, he licked the hard coating, only to pull back from the intensity of the sweetness.

“... Hanguang-jun… Have you never had tanghulu before?”

Lan Wangji shook his head.

“Take a bite rather than lick it.” Mo Xuanyu demonstrated, biting the fourth hawberry on his stick in half, exposing the red bean paste that filled where the pit had been. The other half fell from the stick. Mo Xuanyu caught it and popped it in his mouth. He spoke around the food. “Like that. Need to have the fruit to actually get a taste.”

Lan Wangji nodded. He looked at the tanghulu again. Plan of attack decided on, he bit into the first hawberry on his stick, delicately easing it off the tip of the bamboo skewer. The flavor was still strong, sweet, and gave way to the sourness of the hawberry before the sweetness of the red bean paste again. It was not bad. For a palette that was used to the bitter and bland food of the Cloud Recesses, it was an explosion of flavor that he almost didn’t know how to handle.

“Better, yeah?”

Lan Wangji hummed and nodded again.

“If you don’t want to finish I’ll take it off your hands. No need to let good food go to waste.”

Immediately, Lan Wangji held the rest of his skewer out to Mo Xuanyu. It wasn’t that he didn’t like it, on the contrary, he did, but Mo Xuanyu needed it more at the end of the day. He was still far too thin.

Mo Xuanyu looked at the offering as if it was going to bite him. His gaze moved to Lan Wangji’s hand, then up to his face. There was a brief moment where he didn’t look like he was seeing the outside world, paying attention to some internal conversation again. “... My thanks, Hanguang-jun.”

He took the offered skewer after he finished the last hawberry on his own, the edge of his hand brushing against Lan Wangji’s thumb. Mo Xuanyu continued to look at him as if assessing against an invisible debt ledger. He didn’t need to. There was no debt.

The distrust didn’t surprise Lan Wangji as much as he felt it should have. Whether the distrust was for Lan Wangji personally or for the cultivation world as a whole he couldn’t judge, but in either case it made sense. Long ago Wei Wuxian had made how he felt quite clear, and the evidence Lan Wangji had gathered from observing Mo Xuanyu said that his feelings were likely the same. But that didn’t stop it from hurting, being considered distrustful.

The heat from the passing touch seemed to stay against Lan Wangji’s hand even after they parted. “... Mn.”

“You’re a hard one to figure out.”

“Trying not to be.”

Mo Xuanyu made a noise in the back of his throat that was somewhere between acknowledgment and disbelief. “You also don’t seem to be knowledgeable about gossip.”

“Don’t pay attention, I suppose.”

“I’m taking advantage of that inattention for now.”

“You’re not taking advantage of me. What I do is of my own volition.”

“We’ll see what happens when you finally hear the rumors about me.”

Lan Wangji’s first instinct was to say that he’d help clear the air of them. Wei Wuxian was within Mo Xuanyu, of course he would help them. But what had Mo Xuanyu done that was so terrible that he’d try to convince Lan Wangji to not take him to Gusu after saying he would go? And if he truly didn’t want anyone to know, why bring it up? Self-sabotage? A defense tactic?

“Alright.”

Mo Xuanyu gave him that assessing look again, before the intense scrutiny of his silver eyes focused on his tanghulu.

Lan Wangji had taken three rooms, one for the juniors, one for himself, and one for Mo Xuanyu.  Mo Xuanyu closed the door to the room and leaned his head against it. If he could be absorbed into the wood he’d let it happen.

Ah, Wei Wuxian seemed to stretch his spectral arms up over his head. Alone at last.

Too pretty, too intense, and too strange.

You keep saying that about him. Wuxian’s laughter chimed in their shared mental space. So… Why don’t we leave in the night?

We have no money, I don’t want to steal from too many people, and we’re still injured.

Wei Wuxian took control of their arms to stretch them physically. It’s annoying when you’re right.

I also… Nevermind. Not important.

Xuanyu, you’ll have to copy Righteousness three times if you don’t share with me. Come on, you can tell me.

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes at the empty threat, but it did have it’s intended effect. It’s just... He’s nice. It makes me nervous that he’s nice.  

Would it be better if he was coarse?

Of course not. Just, Mo Xuanyu sighed. There wasn’t a good way to explain the tangled spider web that his thoughts traveled on. Everything in his life told him that people were self-serving, and more than willing to throw others to the side on the smallest whim. That the nicest people had the darkest souls. Most people don’t do something without their own gain in mind. I don’t see what he gets out of being nice to us.

Lan Zhan, he’s a good man. He tries to uphold his Sect’s absurd number of rules to an insane degree, and he holds no ulterior motives. He saw that you were in trouble, and he was obligated to help. He sees you’re hungry, he’ll feed you. And, honestly? He seems to like you as a person.

Of course, Wei Wuxian didn’t get it. I’ve known plenty of good men. Besides, if he’s as good as you say, then why do you keep wanting to run away?

The Cloud Recesses is boring and not fun in the slightest!  Wei Wuxian waved their arms as if a human gesture could encompass exactly how boring the home of the Gusu Lan Sect was.

You want to run away… Because you’d be bored. If he could, Mo Xuanyu would have thrown Wei Wuxian a flat look. He could only push at him exactly what he was feeling. Got a better reason?

… I suppose not.

Mo Xuanyu laid down on the bed, taking back control of their arms and crossing them behind his head. Then we don’t sneak out. For now. Just until we get a better reason, or can’t take advantage of Hanguang-jun’s current kindness.

There was a gentle break in the silence of the night. Plucked strings hung, delicate as dew, on the air. It took a moment for Mo Xuanyu to realize that it wasn’t merely his imagination. The notes were a song coming from next door, Lan Wangji’s room. He sat up and pressed his ear against the wood to hear better.

He must be playing Rest for the arm. So it will stay calm for the rest of the trip. Wei Wuxian said. Do you enjoy hearing Hanguang-jun play?

He’s skilled. Can’t I appreciate good skill? You play the flute well.

Awwh, you flatter me. I would sound even better with a proper flute, and I could help you practice— oh, wait! That’s it! Practice!

Mo Xuanyu had begun humming along to Rest, but paused at Wei Wuxian’s exclaim. This was more important than learning a tune. Hmm? So you’re going to finally going to clue me in on how you’ve been doing that in the mornings?

By ‘that,’ he meant switching between who was in control of their body. They had yet to have a chance to properly discuss it.

Mo Xuanyu could imagine Wei Wuxian’s pout. It’s not like I can really control it. It feels like... like games I used to play at Lotus Pier, swimming under the dock, just underneath the surface, until I break through the water, and, surprise! I’m here.

And then you do the opposite to push me forward?

I don’t think I’ve ever tried to push you forward, it’s more that when I go back, you come forward, like on a pendulum. Wei Wuxian raised their arms up again, gently swinging them back and forth to make his point. We can control certain body parts of the other, but never the whole when someone else is in control.

Mo Xuanyu understood the concept, but it still didn’t answer his question. Right, but the last few days it’s... you wake up in control but then you... retreat? And I end up forward...

He thought back to Wei Wuxian’s original description of the movement, then closed his eyes and imagined letting himself sink underwater…

In less than a minute, Wei Wuxian opened his eyes. “ ...Huh, I guess it is like that. And you seemed to want to spend time with Lan Zhan, didn’t want to interfere.”

Wanting to look at him isn’t the same thing as that. But Mo Xuanyu couldn’t deny that he liked it, that it was nice to spend time with the handsome cultivator. Even if he feared when that niceness would disappear. And then what if I…?

He took a mental step back, even further, until he couldn’t sense anything from their shared body’s senses. It was like he sank even deeper, no longer able to see the sunlight from where he was beneath the surface.

Wei Wuxian’s heart rate sped up in panic. “Xuanyu, Xuanyu I don’t like this. I don’t like it at all.”

But before Wei Wuxian could do more, Mo Xuanyu stepped forward after a few seconds. That was.. Wuxian? Wuxian, I’m here.

Wei Wuxian tried to imagine the feeling of another hand in his as he calmed back down. Warn me before you try it! It was... it was like back on Dafan, when no matter what I did, I couldn’t talk to you.

Oh, but... Mo Xuanyu held back his explanation until he imagined sitting next to Wei Wuxian, leaning their shoulders together. I’m sorry. But... seems we have a way to really make things private now... if we need to.

Wei Wuxian leaned into the touch, even if it wasn’t actually there, but with the explanation offered, he laughed, half-exasperated, half-fond. So this is how you bring up “alone time” again?

No! Pervert. There was no heat it the insult. Just... if we ever want to step back for some reason or another.

Wei Wuxian laughed again, before sobering back up. ... Okay.

He imagined resting his head on Mo Xuanyu’s shoulder. Just, not right now. If you need to at some point it’s fine, but I want to stay with you right now.

What happened to your indifference?

… I got to know you?

Mo Xuanyu’s voice grew soft, and Wei Wuxian almost feared he would draw back again. ...And you still want to be around me?

His tone was not angry or accusatory. Instead, it was curious and hopeful. Possibly the most hopeful he’d ever heard Mo Xuanyu sound.

Wei Wuxian decided now was not the best time to be overly enthusiastic. It would ring too false. Instead, he was honest.   Yes, I do.

… Mo Xuanyu buried his face into Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, just a bit overwhelmed with this new development. There’s still a lot you don’t know that... that I can’t talk about, and I’m now more nervous about when things won’t be nice anymore but... this is nice.

Wei Wuxian remembered Wen Ning, how vacant his eyes were, and the tinkle of chains, almost like bells. But he decided not to confront Mo Xuanyu about it now. Right now, this was... nice.

So... want to try pulling me forward again?

Sure. Wei Wuxian closed his eyes and imagined floating below the surface, and if he tried hard, he caught the feeling of fingertips brushing against each other.

Mo Xuanyu blinked, in control again. Okay. Let me try.

He did the same for Wei Wuxian. They move back and forth, pushing and pulling until they barely need the underwater metaphor before making the change. Wei Wuxian ended up back inside on the last switch.

I think we’ve improved immensely!

Yeah. Mo Xuanyu had to agree. It made him more assured that they could keep control if another encounter with Zidian happened. He leaned back against the wall again, but there was no longer any music. ... He’s stopped.

Guess he finished soothing it.

Mo Xuanyu caught the faint, faint sound of a bed shifting as someone climbed in. He took this as his chance and knocked against the wall.

Wait, you are announcing that we are eavesdropping?

No, just saying good night.

There was a long pause before a tentative knock was returned.

Mo Xuanyu grinned and knocked back twice. There were two return knocks, followed with a third, after a brief pause.

Ah, like little kids you two are, ah.

Mo Xuanyu copied the exact same number of knocks at the same pace. Hush, it’s fun. The man never had tanghulu either, which is a crime.

I don’t think he ever got to have a childhood. At least he seems to be letting the juniors run around a bit. He’s forcing himself to be too dignified all the time... or he just doesn’t know different.

Lan Wangji responded, but his knock traveled higher.

Hm. Mo Xuanyu knocked lower on the wall, but under where Lan Wangji had knocked higher. I have a feeling it’s the latter.

They continued the knocking game for several minutes. Loud and soft, rapid and slow, many and few. They made their own music, a song just for them.

However, they didn’t account for other guests at the inn. Lan Wangji’s other neighbor banged on the door, gruffly shouting that they needed to keep it down, some people were trying to actually sleep.

Mo Xuanyu smothered a laugh in his hand, his mirth practically glowing in the mind space he shared with Wei Wuxian. He knocked one last time. Lan Wangji returned it. By mutual unspoken decision, they went to sleep. Lan Wangji laid down on his back, stiff and proper. Mo Xuanyu slept on his side, his back pressed against the wall.

Chapter Text

They made it to Cloud Recesses sooner than any of them expected. A senior disciple met them at the gates. Instantly, Lan Wangji had requested that Mo Xuanyu be taken to his quarters. Mo Xuanyu was going to protest, but the words stuck in his throat and frost seemed to creep and grow over his thoughts. Despite how Mo Xuanyu denied the idea every time Wei Wuxian brought it up, now he wanted that escape plan. Wei Wuxian began to formulate the details.

Lan Wangji himself went to meet with his brother. He didn’t want to leave Wei Wuxian or Mo Xuanyu alone, but he also needed it to be known that they would be staying.

Lan Xichen’s eyes lit up the moment that Lan Wangji came in. A servant made tea, and laid out the cups and tea pot, while Lan Wangji related that he had brought a guest to Cloud Recesses. At the sound of this, Lan Xichen’s eyes seemed to gain an almost ethereal glow, his gentle smile widening even more. Lan Wangji had the distinct feeling he needed to lean back from the brightness.

“Is that so, Wangji?” Lan Xichen physically leaned forward as he inquired.

“Yes.” He had said so, so why had his brother felt it necessary to repeat it was beyond him. “As Sect Leader, and as my older brother, I thought best for you to be informed.”

“Indeed,” Lan Xichen kept smiling. “Where did you two meet?”

“... Dafan Mountain.” Because that was technically true.

“And? Certainly there’s more to it than that, Wangji.”

Lan Wangji shifted his gaze, looking at one corner of the table instead of his brother’s face before he replied. “He needed aid, it was necessary to bring him back for him to receive it.”

“From the whispers that have reached my ears, the junior disciples are already coming up with some fanciful stories.” Lan Xichen commented with a fond smile before pouring tea for both of them.

That was probably from Lan Jingyi, he was always prone to daydreaming. Lan Wangji took the offered cup, and gently began to sip. The bitterness of it cleared his thoughts, and made him think whether he should have sent a message ahead, to have proper rooms prepared, but he had been worried that they would either suffer under more scrutiny, or find a way to run off before receiving proper medical treatment.

His brother’s enquiry broke through his trailing thoughts. “Are you happier?”

Lan Wangji looked up from his cup, surprised at the shift. He set it down, and nodded. “En.”

Lan Xichen had the uncanny ability to parse out some of his emotions, and it wouldn’t make sense to hide how much joy he had been given over the last few days.

“I’m glad. You’ve been mourning Wei Wuxian for a long time,” Lan Xichen answered, voice calm and measured, as if he wouldn’t have, on any other occasion, gutted him with such words. “I’m glad to see that you have let him rest.”

Lan Wangji squared his shoulders and looked at his brother dead in the eye. “... It is my choice.”

Lan Xichen returned the look with a soft, guileless one of his own. “Of course. It’s why I haven’t pushed you about the matter.”

Lan Wangji nodded. It was unkind of him to answer his brother’s happiness for him with derision, but it was what he felt, even if he knew Wei Wuxian returned. He didn’t regret those years, to do so would not allow him to consider his beloved’s life with the care he deserved. “You have been considerate of my feelings for all these years, and I thank you for it.”

Lan Xichen replied as he took another sip from his tea. “I won’t say that I understand your feelings, but they’re yours, it doesn’t matter if I understand them or not. So, what is your young man like?”

The tea came up from his throat, nearly dribbling out of his nose. Lan Wangji had to use his sleeve to cover his face, but ears turned bright red. “... Not ‘mine,’ his own person.”

“What is this particular young man like?”

Lan Wangji considered what he had learned of Mo Xuanyu. “Defensive, sly, sarcastic, but practical, kind, and…”

Lan Wangji couldn’t stand looking at how his brother’s smile shifted from gentle to outright smug. “And?”

“... Want to protect.”

Lan Xichen grinned around the rim of his tea cup, satisfied. When he finished, he recalled other information he had been given that rang a bell in his memory. “What is his name again? Mo Xuanyu?”

“En.”

“I feel like I’ve heard the name before…”

Lan Wangji frowned. “...He was once a member of the Jin Sect. He prefers not to discuss it.”

“Oh, yes that’s the connection. He’s Jin Guangyao’s younger brother. There was something of a scandal a few years ago, but I didn’t pry.”

Lan Wangji understood that sentiment. He didn’t press for more, either. Hopefully in time... if he and Wei Wuxian stayed, then he would be comfortable telling him.

“Given that he’s here now... hm. Well, I will be discussing the next Cultivation conference with Jin Guangyao soon, I can tell him that his brother made it safe to Gusu.” Lan Xichen offered.

That didn’t sound like a good idea at all. If Mo Xuanyu was forcibly cast out, Jin Guangyao would hold no good will towards him. “... Brother, Mo Xuanyu lived in terrible living conditions with his maternal family.”

“All the better that he’s found you, yes?” Lan Xichen took another sip from his cup, purposefully avoiding that line of discussion. Lan Wangji wondered if his brother understood how transparent his actions could be, especially when it came to his surviving sworn brother.

“He is only here until he recovers.”  

“Then try to see if he’ll agree to stay longer,” Lan Xichen gently urged. “You deserve to be happy.”

“... Not at the cost of his.”

“Yes. But still.” Lan Xichen smile turned into a small grin as if he thought who wouldn’t want to stay by his younger brother’s side. Lan Wangji wished he could tell him he knew, without a doubt, one person did.

While Lan Wangji was having a relatively peaceful tea with his brother, Mo Xuanyu paced the length of the Jingshi. He finally stopped in the middle of the room with his arms crossed and trying to keep every corner in sight, as if waiting for the objects around him to come to life and attack. This was how Lan Wangji found him when he returned. The pressure of Mo Xuanyu’s anxiety increased when Lan Wangji offered him use of his bed.

“I should be the one sleeping on the floor. It’s your room.” Mo Xuanyu said. The particular scent of sandalwood that hung around Lan Wangji was present here too. That, combined with Mo Xuanyu’s doubt that Lan Wangji would have him wait somewhere else, informed his guess.

“You’re injured.” Lan Wangji shook his head once, a pronounced negation. “Better to rest on the bed.”

“I’m the interloper. This is your space.”

“Don’t mind.”

Xuanyu narrowed his eyes. “You’re infuriating, aren’t you.”

“I don’t understand.”

Xuanyu hoped that it was a struggle for Lan Wangji to keep that straight of a face while saying such an obvious lie. He raised an eyebrow and leaned into his next argument. “If you’re sleeping on the floor, I’m sleeping on the floor.”

Lan Wangji closed his eyes, his lips tightening to a firm line, before his expression returned to its usual neutral expression, but Mo Xuanyu was used to hearing minute differences in a person’s voice, and swore he heard an underlying exasperation. “Then we both sleep on the bed?”  

“I just…” Mo Xuanyu didn’t take a step back. He wanted to. His fists relaxed and clenched again, grabbing onto the cloth of his sleeves as he hunched over just a little. If this was the Mo household, by now he would have been grabbed, or hit. Definitely hit. Maybe Lan Wangji was going to do something else. “I don’t want to put you out of your own bed.”

“A bed is a bed, Mo Xuanyu. You are not ‘putting me out’ if I am inviting you in. Take the bed.”

So it would be like that, then. Mo Xuanyu bowed, the motion hiding the frown that crossed his face. “Thank you for use of your bed, Hanguang-jun. Please, don’t put yourself in pain on my account.”

“Mn.” Lan Wangji replied. “You’re welcome, Mo Xuanyu.”

And Wei Ying . Lan Wangji added softly in his mind. “And not painful.”

“If you say so.”

Now that Lan Wangji was assured of their continued presence in the Jingshi, Lan Wangji turned away and headed back towards the door. “Will get the necessary herbs for injuries, and prepare bath. Take what you need from closet, until other clothes can be prepared for you.”

He probably should have gone there first, but Lan Wangji had been worried about how his guests had been doing. It wouldn’t be the first time Wei Wuxian snuck out of the Cloud Recesses, and he worried that they would open up wounds if they tried to climb the wall.

Once he left, Wei Wuxian finally ‘spoke’ up. Is he a warden, a host, or a servant?
Maybe all three. Mo Xuanyu nodded back to closing door, before turning around and raiding said closet. In the handful of minutes it took to browse, he realized that it was pretty much all the same that he saw him wear during the trip to Gusu: white Lan Sect robes.

“You know, with all the sandalwood around, you’d think he’d have more…” Mo Xuanyu mumbled, before reaching out and rubbing one sleeve between his fingers, and resisted the urge to rub his face against the material. It was the nicest clothing he felt against his skin in years, after Lady Mo had thrown out the rest of his mother’s clothes. He would have, if he didn’t have to worry about Wei Wuxian judging him for it. “...But most of this is well made. Impeccably made.”

His eyes traveled to a back corner of the closet, pausing when he saw a small wooden chest nestled in a corner beside extra pairs of boots. Oh, hello. Wei Wuxian?

Yeah, Lan Zhan is pretty boring when it comes to attire. Maybe that’s a sect rule, or something-- What?

Mo Xuanyu kneeled down, setting the boots aside to pull the chest forward. It had no lock, so it was easy to pull up, and he was surprised at what he found inside. Underneath some dried herbs to prevent pests was a set of black robes. He pulled them out and allowed the full set to lay across the floor. They look modeled after the Lan Sect robes, but too short for Lan Wangji, and obvious issues with stitching that needed to be removed and resewn. From Mo Xuanyu’s perspective, it looked like a skilled amateur’s work, but still an amateur. The nicest details were the red embroidery on the outer sleeves, making an overlayed diamond pattern. He rubbed his fingers along it. The material was good, the same as the other robes in the closet, only dyed.

I don’t think these were made for him, to state the obvious.

Or measuring gone wrong. Oh, Lan Zhan, who would have known he’s this unskilled at domestic duties? Wei Wuxian took control of a hand to trace thoughtfully along the embroidery. I guess he grew up a rich young master, so he never had the chance to learn. I like the color of these much better, though.

Maybe. But I highly doubt he’d ever wear black.

Hm...

Mo Xuanyu suddenly had the flash of image of Lan Wangji wearing dark, sweeping robes that seem to swath him in night. But just as soon as the image crossed his consciousness, it was gone. Y-yeah, of course, haha…

Mo Xuanyu was not convinced, but neither was he worried. Black wouldn’t suit him anyways.

What do you mean by that?

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes. Think about his title. What person titled “bearer of light” would wear black and still be considered respectable?

Yes, yes. But I’m not thinking about that, more just… aesthetically! How interesting would it be to see Hanguang-jun wear different colors.
I’m talking aesthetic too! He’s kind of resigned himself to white. Mo Xuanyu placed the robes against his chest, trying to discern the length difference. ...Would it be rude if I corrected the hems? I’d need to redo them anyway to have them fit.

I don’t think he’d mind. Lan Zhan put it in a corner anyways, and he gave you free reign of the closet, so this is included with that…
Mo Xuanyu had a sinking suspicion that Wei Wuxian wanted to say more. … Something in there sounds fishy but I’m too tired to examine it.

He scrounged up a needle-- another thing that Lan Wangji purchased for them, along with some thread-- more that they would have to pay him back for, one way or another. Mo Xuanyu focused on undoing the hems and re-doing them exactly three centimeters shorter. Wei Wuxian, despite commenting on Lan Wangji’s lack of domestic skills, offered no assistance, content with humming a song to himself in their shared consciousness. He was lucky that the tune wasn’t that annoying… what was annoying was that he actually had a nice voice. Jerk, good at playing the flute and at singing.

Mo Xuanyu just finished the hems when Lan Wangji returned carrying a basket of herbs and fresh bandages. “Mn?” He hadn’t remembered having anything black in the closet, but-- recollection hit like a sword strike. “Not that one, it’s bad.”

“You said whatever in the closet. This was in the closet. Easy enough to fix the mistakes in it and I’m not going to wait around naked while what I am wearing gets washed.”

A thought came to Mo Xuanyu. Maybe that was what Lan Wangji wanted.

It wouldn’t be the first time in his experience that ‘let me check how you’re healing’ turned into more. It was Lord Mo’s favorite tactic. When Lady Mo, his cousin, or any of the servants had taken it to mind to beat him for this or that reason he could count on Lord Mo visiting during the night. His pudgy, ill-formed hands would trace the edges of Mo Xuanyu’s bruises, then press hard on them, making him gasp in pain. Lord Mo would always pretend that it was a pleasured sound, and move his hands lower, where they were definitely not wanted, while saying all manner of shameless things. All Xuanyu could do then was make himself cold, freeze out his heart and hold everything in, his panic, his dread, his rage. Making noise would just result in Lady Mo finding out, and he would be accused of ‘seducing’ his uncle. His side of the story would not matter. He was the insane bastard. He was thrown out of his sect for crimes no one dared to name but in titillating whispers. He was living upon his lady aunt’s forbearance. No one would believe him.

Mo Xuanyu could see how that scene might play out with Lan Wangji. What could be the same, what could be different. But here, there was no need to hide. The entire compound probably knew that Mo Xuanyu was here, where he had been taken. Lan Wangji could just keep him there on the bed, naked, waiting.

“... Unless you want me to be here naked.” The freezing cold look in Mo Xuanyu’s eyes met Lan Wangji’s squarely, challenging as a drawn blade.
However, unexpectedly, Lan Wangji immediately dropped the basket of supplies and, if one could apply the term to a man like the esteemed second young master of the Lan Sect, scurried back out the door. “Going to prepare bath, will knock when finished.”

Wei Wuxian cackled in their shared space. So bold, Xuanyu~

Mo Xuanyu wasn’t laughing. Ice formed in a block around his heart, heavy and weighing him down. Lan Wangji left. He just… left? So he didn’t want to…? And yet...

Not Bold.

Wei Wuxian, however, misunderstood his shortness. Look, Lan Zhan has always been a bit of a prude. I remember the one time we bathed together in the cold spring, he kept moving away, shoulders hunched as if he was a woman protecting her decency. He’s not used to teasing like that. It’s not you, just his mindset.

Mo Xuanyu shook his head. No, I’m glad he ran off. I thought… well, never mind what I thought. He’s still as good as he seems. Not everyone can claim that.

Wei Wuxian’s interpretation shifted, and Mo Xuanyu felt a ‘rise’ in temperature that flashed against his ice. Lan Zhan isn’t like the Mo Family.

The Mo family aren’t the only people who can present one face to the world and truly be something entirely different.

I’m not talking about just one person in the world, I’m talking about Lan Zhan. He doesn’t do that.

“Don’t act like like I’m supposed to know this eternal truth of your universe.” Mo Xuanyu snarled. He had enough. It was his fault for expecting the worst when that was what life handed him up until this point? What right did Wei Wuxian have to judge him for being cautious? If you couldn’t prevent an event, then you planned to expect it.

The flames that sprung up immediately extinguished. … I’m sorry.

Mo Xuanyu relaxed his grip on the black robes slightly. It was harder for him to come down from his anger, but he had to make Wei Wuxian understand.

At this moment, the only person in the world that I trust is you. I don’t even trust myself that much. Mo Xuanyu focused on easing his hands open and taking deep breaths as he spoke. If you say that Hanguang-jun isn’t like that I’ll do my best to believe it, but ... I still need confirmation.

… Alright. We can worry about that confirmation after this body is healed. There was a flash of warmth again, but not a burning heat. It almost felt like the kitchen hearth Cook would let him huddle around in the winter as she shared her tea.

Yes. So, what’s this escape plan you keep talking about?

Ah, yes! That’s easy-- we steal a jade token, use it to get out, then we’re on our way…

As Wei Wuxian went over the current plan, there was a soft knock at the door.

“Yes?” Mo Xuanyu answered, his hand coming up to almost start the knocking game they played at the inn again.

Lan Wangji’s voice was slightly muffled, but easy enough to hear. “Bath is prepared. Back of Jingshi. Must take care of other duties, and will be back in an hour. Will knock again before I enter.”

Mo Xuanyu got to his feet, sticking the clean robes into a basket before stepping out the door. He only spared a quick nod to Lan Wangji, not looking at his face as he walked to the back.

… Hanguang-jun might have one.

Yeah, but if his goes missing won’t we be the first suspect?

Mo Xuanyu felt eyes on their back until he turned the corner, he didn’t feel as anxious about it as he should. He set the basket to the side of the wooden barrel. There was steam coming up from it, which meant Lan Wangji must have just heated it. Another kind gesture that Mo Xuanyu would have to turn around and inspect in his head later. … Fine, we can see what other options we have.

An hour does give us a lot of time, we can see if we find anything in the jingshi, or around the Cloud Recesses.

Mo Xuanyu took a quick bath, careful not to break open any of the cuts, before applying the herbs and new bandages to the cuts along his torso, but ignoring the ones on his arms. They were treated earlier this morning, anyway. We won’t necessarily steal it, we’ll hang the token at the gate with a thank you note.  

At least they’ll get a donkey out of it! And hey, shouldn’t you do your arms?

We’re taking Apple. And no. They’ll be fine so long as we don’t do too much digging. Mo Xuanyu changed, picked up the basket and headed back.

Mo Xuanyu could imagine Wei Wuxian smacking his knee with a grin. Damn, thought I tricked you.

Admit it, you like him.  

I absolutely loathe that donkey, you are biased. Wuxian noticed that Xuanyu kept touching the flowing sleeves on the outer robes. Not secure enough?

Mm. Loose. No time to deal with it now.

He returned back inside, dropping the old clothing into the basket, then leaving it by the door and starting a much more thorough search of the Jingshi. They looked high and low, back and forth across the space, but nothing resembling the jade token was found. Mo Xuanyu was ready to give up and suggest another strategy, when one of the floorboards made a faint creak when stepped across. He hunched down, pressing down to find that it was loose, before pulling it up, and his eyes widened at what he found. There was over a dozen jars of wine, all lined up in two neat rows. Judging by the make of the pottery, they were a specialty as well. Wei Wuxian began to howl in delight.

Well, we’ll take one of these along, Mo Xuanyu began, but Wei Wuxian was too busy laughing.

Oh! Oh, oh my, Lan Zhan, you’ve been holding out! You used to give me grief about smuggling in Emperor’s Smile, but look at you now! Hahahaha!

Next time we see him you can give him grief about it. Mo Xuanyu replied, scooping up one of the jars. A small amount of payback for how much anxiety Lan Wangji caused him. Besides, he was rich enough that he could always buy more.
Ahh… Xuanyu, can I have just a taste, before we go? It’s been so long.

I already said we’d bring a jar, didn’t I?

But, like… right now.
Mo Xuanyu considered it. He really should say no. It would be best to say no. … Not the whole thing…

But Mo Xuanyu couldn’t deny Wei Wuxian when he hadn’t got to have alcohol in thirteen years.

Wei Wuxian crowed in victory as they switched control. “Bless you, my good sir!”

He used his teeth to remove the cloth covering and dumped a stream of alcohol directly into his waiting mouth.

Remember I said not the whole thing--!

He stopped when there was exactly two thirds of wine remaining in the jar. It was almost impressive, how well Wei Wuxian timed it. Like he had done it countless times before. We’ll just have to take another with us!

Mo Xuanyu felt a wave of fond exasperation that he tried to suppress. I said that we could.

Wei Wuxian giggled, reapplying the cloth tie and tying it to his waist, along with another jar. Want me to stay in control?

It’s been a while since I last drank liquor, but I can hold my own. Sort of.
Oh? Wei Wuxian smirked. Do you go wild?

Mo Xuanyu ignored the prod for a story. There was nothing to tell, and they had a time limit. I’ve not been that drunk, but it’s not like a single cup will do me in.

Though he wasn’t sure about almost a full jar. But Wei Wuxian didn’t seem to think on it.

Let’s see how you handle this--

Mo Xuanyu stumbled, but it was more from the added weight from the jars as anything effecting his mind. There was a pleasant dimming of his anxiety, and that was all.

Well done!

Not like I did anything. Mo Xuanyu countered, before heading out the door.

Mid-evening in the Cloud Recesses was tranquil. They encountered no one on patrol, and natural sounds of the day winding down coming from the nature that joined hand in hand with the sect’s lodgings could be heard all around them.

Eventually, they stumble upon a small path, which Wei Wuxian faintly remembered lead to the natural spring. A perfect sight for cultivation and relaxation, if you could handle the chill. They took it and eventually came across a neatly folded pile of white cloth that turned out to be clothing. Lan robes. Perfect.

He rifled through the folds looking for any piece of jade he could find. First was the pendant that Lan Wangji had hanging from his belt. A small niggle of guilt wormed its way through Mo Xuanyu but he resolutely ignored it as he continued to search. They’d give back the token later.

The sound of water moving distracted him. Mo Xuanyu looked up, his breath catching in his throat in a harsh gasp.

Lan Wangji was naked. He was very naked and the moonlight was hitting him in the water in such a way that he seemed to have stepped out of a dream. The beauty of the scene would have given Mo Xuanyu pause, but what made him gasp was the layers and layers of scars that marred Lan Wangji’s perfectly sculpted back. They were too thick to be whip scars, so that meant discipline sticks. But to have so many, and for the resulting scarring to be so clear… He didn’t dare contemplate how many strikes he must have endured, how long it must have taken to heal even this much.

Wei Wuxian was in a similar state of ensorcelled schock. How…?

The noise alerted Lan Wangji that he was not alone. He turned and there was no time to stand up or back away from the pile of clothing. Another scar was on his chest, too far away to discern exactly what it was but it looked like a brand.

Their eyes locked.

The evidence of imperfection made this perfect man all the more beautiful. It proved that he was human rather than a statue come to life. There was no way that Mo Xuanyu could move. Lan Wangji broke his gaze first to see what Mo Xuanyu had been doing. A frown crossed his features, there and gone like a shadow. He stepped closer, coming through the water.

“Hand me my inner robe.”

The part of Mo Xuanyu that still held onto orneriness in the name of teasing attractive men wanted to say no. Why cover up the lines of his chest and abs, the angle of how his hips connected to his thighs, the lean chords of muscles that contributed to just how wide Lan Wangji’s shoulders were. But here, this close, he can see the brand on Lan Wangji’s chest all too clearly. It was  a Sunburst at its zenith. Mo Xuanyu had been a small child during the Sunshot Campaign, and though Mo Village had been far from the fighting, even he could recognize the symbol of the destroyed Wen clan.

Mo Xuanyu’s hands were trembling as he passed over the requested clothing. Gods… Gods.

He didn’t have those before.

Lan Wangji took his robe and put it on, finally coming out of the cold spring when he had the barest layer of decency. “If you plan on running away, do so after you have recovered.”

“I…” Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help the blush on his face. It didn’t matter what was covered or uncovered, every part of Lan Wangji was a sight to behold. Even the scars, awful as they were, was a sight that had seared itself into Mo Xuanyu’s mind. “Hanguang-jun, I…”

Xuanyu, Xuanyu use your words. Just… fuck, I don’t think ‘got lost’ works here.

Lan Wangji sighed, interrupting Mo Xuanyu. “Don’t. Another time, if you wish to talk.”

“No, I… I got lost trying to find the library and I thought you’d have--” Mo Xuanyu turned around when Lan Wangji bent to retrieve his clothing and get fully dressed. “.... What happened to you, Hanguang-jun?”

“It is too late for the library. I will take you there tomorrow. Should you wish to read I have some books you can borrow at the Jingshi.” The question made Lan Wangji pause as he was getting dressed, long enough that the hum of far off insects broke the silence. “You don’t need to worry about it.”

“I can’t see something like that and be asked not to worry.”

“...” Lan Wangji walked around Mo Xuanyu so he could face him. His expression was as tranquil as the night surrounding them.  “These are old marks, and I accepted them without complaint. I have no ill feelings towards them. They are here. I have no wish to be rid of them.”
H-how can he say that? Wei Wuxian interrupted before Mo Xuanyu could reply, voice thick with confusion. Even if they’re old, fresh they must have been painful!

Painful was only the surface of it. If they were made with what I think they were made by… how is he even alive?

… Lan Zhan is truly amazing in every way.

If Mo Xuanyu asked his question out loud, it would only prolong the tension of the conversation.  “... As you say, Hanguang-jun. I can’t argue against that sort of conviction.”

“En. Let’s go.” Lan Wangji began walking back to the Jingshi but stopped after a few steps. “Mo Xuanyu,” he waited until the other had focused on him. “Did well, with the robes.”

“If you way so.”

When they returned, the Jingshi was only lit by moonlight. Lan Wangji lit a candle and placed it in a small lantern, using it’s glow to pull out extra blankets from a storage basket, as well as a pillow, and set them behind the screen near his desk. Mo Xuanyu stood in the middle of the space, unsure of where he could go that wouldn’t give the wrong impression. He placed the Emperor’s Smile back under the floorboard just to find something to do.

When he was finished, Lan Wangji walked back to them, holding the lantern and three books over.
Mo Xuanyu took the books with unguarded reverence. He got his wish, to hold a book again and not have the fear that it would be snatched from his hands. He had to stop himself from clutching them to his chest.

Lan Wangji looked at him, the lantern light softening the edges of his elegant face, and bringing a gentle reflective glow that magnified the natural one of his eyes. Inwardly, he immediately wanted to grab the keys to the library, to see Mo Xuanyu’s obvious delight and awe expand further amongst its walls. It was the first time he has seen the man look emotionally vulnerable.

“Please blow out the candle before you sleep. Dangerous to leave lit.”

The pout-like scowl on his lips was another new expression that made something warm settle within Lan Wangji’s chest.

“I’m well acquainted with the notion that it’s dangerous to let a flame go unsupervised,” Mo Xuanyu replied primly, taking the lantern from Lan Wangji and settling the books against his side in an obvious show that he’s done so countless times before. He paused, looking down at the floor instead of Lan Wangji’s face as he continued. “Thank you, for the books. You really should stop being so nice. You’ll get taken advantage of and I won’t leave.”

“Nonsense.” Lan Wangji replied, then with a small swish of his robes, he walked back to his desk. “...You’re welcome, and good night.”

Mo Xuanyu didn’t turn around until Lan Wangji had stepped behind the screen, his silhouette muddled and unclear without light as he dressed into sleeping robes, settled into his makeshift bed, and immediately fell asleep

… He’s asleep. Mo Xuanyu told Wei Wuxian, too stupefied to actually believe it, until he heard the faint sound of even breathing. … He’s fucking already asleep.

Wei Wuxian didn’t sound that surprised. The Lan Sect have rules about anything and everything. Including sleep schedules.

That’s ridiculous. At least he’s not forcing us to follow that.

Here, here!

Mo Xuanyu finally decided he could make himself comfortable… well, as comfortable as he was going to get, setting the lamp nearby and opening up the first book and starting to drink in the first couple of lines.

“...” Mo Xuanyu had to bite down on his lip, hard, so he wouldn’t start chuckling. ...And who would have guessed a guy like that is reading erotic love poetry.

Wait, WHAT?! … Wait, I recognized the cover. Xuanyu, this is just the Lan Sect founder’s bland love poetry.  
Mo Xuanyu continued reading to himself, knowing that Wei Wuxian was following, and then smirked. Think of a woman’s body, and what you might term as “mountains” that have “a flowering valley” in between.

What the fuck? Wei Wuxian’s voice would have wheezed if he were speaking aloud. How scandalous! This Sect outlawed “flowery language” here when that kind of thing is in their founder’s poetry?

They can’t exactly outlaw someone that’s dead. And the surrounding context makes it seem like he’s really talking about visiting a nice valley owned by his lover.

… Maybe they didn’t understand the innuendo. Wei Wuxian replied, still in slight awe, but now ten times more curious. He imagined sitting beside Mo Xuanyu, the tips of their knees barely touching. Hey, read more?

Hm…

Mo Xuanyu settled back more comfortably on the bed. He turned a few more pages until he settled on one that interested him and softly began to read aloud. The poem was, on the surface, one where the speaker was buying his love a new robe, but perhaps could instead have been about removing his lover’s clothing altogether.

Wei Wuxian snickered like a teenager just getting their hands on their first porn book. However, the dramatic reading also gave him sparks of inspiration. He had to think of poems when he was calling to the dead for aid, and with the original poem as a template, he found his own rhythm.

‘However could I find the best cloth to caress your soft skin, like the newest fresh blossoms in spring, that blush at the faintest touch?’

Mo Xuanyu smirked. It appeared they were making their own poetry now. He leaned to the side and blew out the lantern light, gently set the other books on one side of the bed, and considered his contribution. ‘What cloth could equal the blush of your cheek, the sheen of your hair? Skin is the palette of the soul. Why cover it with a lie, however beautiful?’

Ooh, that’s a good one! Wei Wuxian is absolutely giddy that Mo Xuanyu decided to continue. He had forgotten how fun it was to go back and forth with games like this. Everyone at the Burial Mound was working hard to better their new home, and his little one had been too young to really create poetry, even if he already had a quick mind. He pushed away the feeling of melancholy that almost broke into his shared consciousness, and continued. ‘Nothing can do, so I wish to be your only mantle. The only separation between me and you.’

‘The comfort of the rod, strange, the silk that can be generated from hardness.’

It was in that moment that anything else besides the present moment immediately flew from Wei Wuxian’s mind. W-wow, Xaunyu, I don’t think I can follow that one up!

Only because the moment I changed it from general to men, you got flustered. Mo Xuanyu challenged.

Did not!

But he did, and he had to think. … Because the last naked man he saw was Lan Wangji, it was normal for him to think of him. Doubly so when he was just on the other side of the room. It was simple proximity! The… the branch of a strong tree…

Mo Xuanyu gave him no relief, waiting for him to finish.

‘How strong the branch, standing proudly in the sun, watching it blossom with white flowers, like pearls from the sea. The signs of fruit that will follow.’  

-- A chest branded like his was--

There you go. Still flustered though. Mo Xuanyu brought reprieve. ‘Salt on my tongue, the juice from a fruit that I will taste, again and again. So rare it is that I find a fruit to please me, the sun to shine on me, the water to take my flesh for its own.’

-- The scars went all the way down to the water’s edge--

‘So I gaze upon the sun, answering as I quench my thirst with gentle caresses and silent promises. Just as my love has skin that no silk can compare to, I need not anything but their light to drench and warm myself in.

-- So beautiful, still so beautiful--

‘I… open… myself…’ But before he finished the words, to bring their poetry to the next step, he fell asleep.

… Xuanyu? … Ah, you’re asleep. Well, it’s dark, so I can’t do much else.

Wei Wuxian let himself drift off, the image of gold eyes burning into him the last thing he can recall.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji rose early the next morning and prepared for the day as he usually did. The only difference, of course, was that his starting point was not his bed. He checked on Mo Xuanyu and was surprised to see that the other man was sitting up. A second look proved that he was still asleep, a book of Lan An’s poetry loosely gripped in one hand.

Was the feeling that rose in Lan Wangji’s chest tenderness? He couldn’t be sure. “He should have lied down.”

He moved to put Mo Xuanyu in a more comfortable position but stopped before he finished the step. If the other man woke to have Lan Wangji looming over him, he would be afraid. The fear on Dafan had not been a one-time thing, brought on by surprise. Mo Xuanyu kept himself to himself, avoiding any touch that he did not initiate, and dodging any that came his way. He was likely still afraid, given that he had not even changed into sleeping clothes.

Instead of moving further into the room, Lan Wangji took a step back and left for his morning obligations. He’d come back with breakfast for them later.

Of course, as soon as Lan Wangji left, it was made evident that Wei Wuxian was in control of Mo Xuanyu’s body. He flopped over on his side, clutching the book to his chest and sleep talking in a mumbling snore.

Mo Xuanyu though, was awake. So while they switched if they were both asleep, even if one of them were awake, they had to make the switch themselves. For now, Mo Xuanyu was content to stay in the background, occupying their mind space and arranging himself to feel like he had Wei Wuxian’s head in his lap. It was strange, touching without touching. He could imagine brushing his fingers against the edges of Wei Wuxian’s bangs, but at the same time, it was not happening. It was, very literally, all in his head. How many times had he heard that? And the one time that it truly was just in his head, it was something that he wanted to do, but never would dare to ask for.

“Xuanyu…” Wei Wuxian’s mumble had turned into an actual word that he sighed out.

What’s that supposed to be.

Wei Wuxian buried himself deeper into the bed with a hum and a chuckle. As if he could feel the fondness under Mo Xuanyu’s exasperation.

Wuxian… Wuxian, we should wake up.

Wei Wuxian’s whole body protested, tossing and turning.

Wuxian, we won’t be able to complete the poem if you don’t wake up.

“Have… Poem…?”

Mhmm. We also have to finish your escape plan, and maybe sit through someone healing us.

“Mmm… bed…”

We are in a bed. Hanguang-jun’s bed.

“Lan Zhan, Lan… Zhan… heh heh.”

I don’t want to know what you’re thinking now.

“Destroyed my porn… but you… you have porn…. Hehehe…”

Well, now Mo Xuanyu had had enough. He tapped Wei Wuxian on the head.

“Wha!” Wei Wuxian shot up, raising his arms to protect his head, the book of poetry going flying.

Thank you, I didn’t want to be awake for when you started dreaming about showing Hanguang-jun exactly how those poems are erotic.

“What? What did I do?” He looked around quickly, realizing that he has spoken out loud. But they were alone. Wei Wuxian breathed a sigh of relief.

Nothing, yet.

“Do you have to be so gloomy just as I’m waking up?” Wei Wuxian stretched his arms up and yawned so deeply that Mo Xuanyu wondered if the entirety of the Cloud Recesses could hear him.

Yep. The sun is in the sky, the rivers are full of water, and Mo Xuanyu is creating clouds to cover it all up.

Wei Wuxian snickered and pulled a pillow into his arms, hugging it in substitution of the poetry book, which was now on the floor, and too far away to reach, at least in his mind. Besides, he and Mo Xuanyu had proven they could follow the poetry just fine on their own. “Ah, but you sweeten the day with your honeyed phrases.

He could imagine the quirk of an eyebrow, a downward turn of a mouth that was just the edge of a pout but more likely to be a scowl. Who’s honeyed? You must be mistaking me for someone else.

“Awwh, but your poetry last night was beautiful!”

Oh, that sort of honeyed. Mo Xuanyu let himself be mollified.  That’s fine, then.

“Good, let’s think more about the escape plan…”

They continued to discuss other strategies of making a quick and easy exit from the Cloud Recesses, while also taking Apple (at Mo Xuanyu’s insistence) and jars of Emperor’s Smile (at Wei Wuxian’s) when mid-discussion the door to the Jingshi opened once more.

“Hurk...” Wei Wuxian had to reign in his voice again, as he flashed a smile to hide the panic. Did Lan Wangji hear any of their discussion just now? He had been so wrapped up in it that he hadn’t been keeping a lookout.

However, Lan Wangji was busy carrying a food tray in one hand while opening and closing the door with another and didn’t pay much attention until he finished his task with his characteristic diligence. It was odd to him: he probably had fantasies about someone bringing him breakfast in bed at some point in his life. Bringing someone food when they had just woke up, or if they were sick and couldn’t move was always a sign of care for Wei Wuxian, ever since his older martial, Jiang Yanli, would bring him meals to him and Jiang Cheng if they were punished for some small prank or lack of discretion. He never expected something like that from Lan Wangji. Much less, something like that for him…

Oh, but that was a mistake. Lan Wangji’s kindness wasn’t for him. It was for Mo Xuanyu. And then it hit him, that what they had been discussing if they left… Mo Xuanyu may never get experience that kind of care again. Only having one morning where someone brought you food, even when some people go on and on about “having just one day of this or that,” when Wei Wuxian had countless kindnesses like it showered on him in his past life, it wasn’t fair.

Mo Xuanyu deserved every single bit of that kindness.

We still need that token-- hey, Wuxian, are you listening?

Oh, sorry, got distracted.

… By Hanguang-jun.

Wei Wuxian busied himself with undoing the bun and retying the faded red ribbon up into his usual ponytail to hide the indignant squawk he gave Mo Xuanyu. Not like that!

Lan Wangji watched, an uncontrolled wave of warmth settling on him that he does nothing to hold back. Wei Ying.

“Ah, good morning Hanguang-jun!”

Lan Wangji nodded in reply, and gingerly made his way to the bed, setting the wooden tray in front of him. A bowl of congee, still steaming with noticeable flecks of vegetables added in, a side dish of freshly cut fruit, and tea. Despite his initial fear of the Lan Sect’s diet, everything looked easy on the eyes and the stomach.

“For you.” Lan Wangji said.

“Ah, many thanks!”

He gave a smooth shake of his head. “No trouble.”

… All this for one body?

Wei Wuxian paused before taking his first bite. They hadn’t eaten much on the road traveling here, since Mo Xuanyu wanted to avoid crowded spaces when it wasn’t necessary, waving off some restaurants and road stops, but…

Xuanyu, this is a typical breakfast size. What did you eat for breakfast in Koi Tower?

Mo Xuanyu had rather been thinking about the meals, or lack thereof, at Mo Village. But he considered it. … Sometimes I’d forget at Koi Tower. Brother would have to remind me…

But his brother was… is a busy man, sometimes he would forget, so Mo Xuanyu would, too.

Wei Wuxian let a long pause between their thoughts hang, as he considered Mo Xuanyu mentioning his half-brother. But then, more questions about him were for another time. He could be patient. Well, you need this much food to get this body’s strength back up, especially with how thin you are.

I’m not--Yes, I am thin. But it’s not entirely my fault.

I didn’t mean to imply that it was.

He began to dig into the meal with relish, as Lan Wangji went to his desk and went through papers.

In only a few minutes, Wei Wuxian polished everything off and was now enjoying his second cup of tea. Hm, a bit bland, and the tea is more bitter than I like, but everything settles well in the stomach.
Mo Xuanyu didn’t comment, but he also enjoyed the feeling, once more, of being comfortably full. It probably wasn’t something to get used to, but he savored it.

It’s just the stuff this body needs to get some more meat on its bones. He took another sip. Which means, I think I want to postpone getting the jade token. 

This was what Mo Xuanyu needed, and besides, Wei Wuxian would benefit, too. So it made more sense. He didn’t think long about the strange twinge in his gut when considering the benefits of Lan Wangji’s hospitality.

Oh? And here I thought you wanted to get out of the Cloud Recesses as soon as possible, despite me being all for coming here before…

Wei Wuxian maybe exaggerated his response, but not the blush that crossed his face. Shut up! A bed is a bed, and a meal is a meal!
I’m… not complaining. I’m just wondering at the sudden change. Mo Xuanyu faintly recalled the scowl Lan Wangji had on his face when he caught them riffling for the token. Besides, I think Hanguang-jun would drag us back if he thought we still not fully recovered.

… How he treats you.

… What do you mean, “how he treats me?”

Wei Wuxian took another sip, collecting his thoughts even if he didn’t need his mouth to ‘speak.’ As I said before, I expected him not to take advantage and to treat you decently, but… this is above and beyond my expectations, and this body needs that sort of attention right now if we’re going to survive. It’s… better, to stay with him for now.

And not because he has arms like a war god. I see I see. Mo Xuanyu mimicked Wei Wuxian’s teasing tone and cadence perfectly.  

Wei Wuxian squawked in indignation. That- that means nothing-- I mean I didn’t notice-- I don’t care about that!

“...” Lan Wangji had moved the screen, which meant his desk was facing the bed, and he easily saw and heard Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian mimicked a motion of the tea being too hot. “Ah, ah…”

“...” Lan Wangji returned to his work.

Mo Xuanyu gently “jostled” his shoulder with his own. … Thank you for seeing things my way, and understanding when I was… stressed, last night. Even if it did take you a week and a day. 

… Hmph, what a backhanded thank you.

I’m full of them.

When the rest of the tea had been drained, and Wei Wuxian made a quick break to the outhouse, and when he returned, Lan Wangji appeared to have finished his work, and the tray was gone. How efficient!

“... Do you still wish to see the library.” Lan Wangji said.

Yes. Yes. Now.

A fond grin played up his face as he mimicked Mo Xuanyu’s tone. “Yes, yes, now. If you please.”

There was a long moment that Lan Wangji used to calm down his suddenly racing heart before he lead them to the library. On the way there, Wei Wuxian took a mental step back and let Mo Xuanyu walk forward, and he rearranged their hair into his preferred style. Wei Wuxian may not mind feeling hair brush their shoulders, but it made Mo Xuanyu’s skin itch.

The moment that they walked through the library door, Lan Wangji lost Mo Xuanyu. He went to the shelves as an alley dog went for the best scraps. His fingers ran along the shelves, and he muttered to himself the titles and subjects that he found.

Wei Wuxian was not enchanted in the slightest to return to the library he was confined in, even if it wasn’t technically the original library (he remembered hearing the old one had been severely damaged), but he kept his complaints to a minimum. There was a reason for them to come here.  

Lan Wangji did not try to break Mo Xuanyu from his trance but watched as he muttered titles and subjects under his breath. If either Wei Wuxian or Mo Xuanyu were paying attention, they might have noticed the shift in Lan Wangji’s gaze to something more gentle, to smile with his eyes without smiling, but they did not. Instead, he took a book from one of the shelves and went off to read.

Meanwhile, Mo Xuanyu continued his verbal notes.

“Makes sense that there’s quite a bit on music here, given the Sect’s specialty, but there’s less than what you’d expect from a major one… not surprising though. Would have to look at the book catalog… or other documentation to see what was lost, or unable to be recovered… this looks like a good work for acupressure, I wonder if…”

When he finally looked up, Mo Xuanyu realized he was, physically, alone. “... Huh? Where did Hanguang-jun go?”

You have been muttering for an hour, I think he decided to leave you be until whatever possessed you passed. Wei Wuxian commented in amusement. And there is less here than there was years ago since you were wondering.

Mo Xuanyu blushed a deep red. I just… it’s a good collection, regardless.

Oh, so now he was getting shy? Well, Wei Wuxian would just need to offer some encouragement. Things after yesterday seemed to be going fine, but could always do more!   Maybe you can tell him that? He’s always loved this place, I think. He had his leg broken defending it, that had to count for something. So, I’m sure he had a hand in its reconstruction!

Mmm… maybe.

Mo Xuanyu walked away from the shelves, turning around a corner to the more open reading space, where Lan Wangji was, calmly reading.

“Hanguang-jun?”

Lan Wangji looked up. “Mn.”

“Is there a shelf on medical texts?”

“En.”

Wei Wuxian would have sighed if he could. But, he supposed it made more sense with their current task. They followed Lan Wangji back to the shelves, where he goes to the one in the middle of a row. “The upper three shelves are all medical texts. Are you looking for a subject?”

Mo Xuanyu gestured at his torso where the cuts were underneath. “If there is anything I can do for these.”

“...” Lan Wangji considered options besides spiritual energy transfer. “... Not much on cuts, unless done by a malevolent force and require banishment.”

He reached up and took down a slightly weather-worn book, and handed it to Mo Xuanyu. “Book for discerning plants in the wilderness, may find more here, and how to make poultice for wounds.”

“Hm…” Mo Xuanyu flipped through the book’s illustrations quickly, before he tucked it under his arm. “Could you also get down the one about cuts by malevolent forces?”

He then spoke to Wei Wuxian. That’s usually how resentful energy gets categorized and could probably help make sure these wounds don’t open as readily.

Ahh, I forgot about that! But the book is probably all how to banish and combat it, not control… Though the healing process would be accelerated with a spiritual energy transfer, I’m not going to not say it. 

Mo Xuanyu took in all the information and assented to Wei Wuxian, half-not listening as he took the other book Lan Wangji gave him. 

“Thanks… by the way, a lot of the volumes look like newer copies, so… the rebuilding process seemed to have gone well. A small collection for a sect of this size, but the best volumes…”

Mo Xuanyu blushed again, then stepped back and went to search for extra paper for note taking and a table to sit at with his books and not try to do some strange form of bookish flattery ever again.

… That was a good job, Xuanyu!

Shut up.

Lan Wangji blinked, slightly confused that Mo Xuanyu scurried off without allowing him time to reply. “...”

Well, Lan Wangji didn’t exactly mind. He had begun to learn that when excited, sometimes Mo Xuanyu would say things he might be thinking out loud. The excess processing of information required an outlet. He wandered along the shelves for a little while, double-checking that everything was in its proper place, before returning to the reading area to find Mo Xuanyu once more absorbed in research. He approached the table and kneeled across from them.  

“Class in the afternoon. Alright, staying here?”

“Yeah fine.” Mo Xuanyu replied shortly, muttering to himself as all the books he collected were around him, notes and sketches lined every corner of scrap paper beside him. It was clear that he was no longer paying attention. He was fully in his element. He was doing what he did best, in an environment that he had longed to return to for years.

“Mn.” Lan Wangji went back to his daily tasks, assured that Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian would remain here until he was finished.

Hours passed. The sun moved from high in the sky, bringing natural light into the library’s sitting area, to a dim red glow as their shadow grew longer in front of the table.

“So, if we treat a poultice with this, that should make sure anything lingering from the ritual will be cleared out.”

Sounds good. Only topical though, because ingested it’s also a laxative.

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes. “Yes, yes, like I’m really going to eat it.”

He finally looked up, only registering then how sore his neck felt. “... What time is it?”

Hm. Wei Wuxian turned their neck back and forth, surveying the area, but also getting out some of the kinks in their neck. 

Judging how low the sun’s getting, late afternoon. Lan Zhan will probably come to collect us soon. 

Mo Xuanyu reached up to rest a hand against his stomach and felt it shiver underneath his skin with a brief gurgle. Breakfast now felt far away. “This is what I meant earlier, by forgetting meals. Just working for a while and losing track of time.” 

Wei Wuxian laughed, now seeing for himself, it was similar to how he used to get. I guess I’m not one to judge. At the Burial Mound, I would do the same thing. Wen Ning would be sent to remind me --

The sound of chains, like tinkling bells, returned to his mind.

… Xuanyu, I haven’t talked to you about something. When we saw Wen Ning, you didn’t seem…  surprised.

Mo Xuanyu paused in tidying up the books on the table. He didn’t respond for some time, and then, only in their mind. I was surprised he showed up. The shackles were the best the Jin sect could get their hands on.

That didn’t answer Wei Wuxian’s question, it only gave him more to think, and a fire within him began to grow. He’s been like that for thirteen years?

... The Jin sect had him imprisoned, yes.

Mo Xuanyu could feel a cruel snarl crawl up his face. Wei Wuxian laughed, but it was unlike any of his usual laughs. Of course they did. A powerful fierce corpse with sentience. They would never have burned him to ash without studying him first.

Why, The pause made it feel like flames were licking at Mo Xuanyu’s back. Didn’t you tell me sooner?

Mo Xuanyu, on instinct, responded with his frost. It wasn’t widely known. Only Brother, Jin Guangshan, and one or two others know, or… knew.

You knew. Wei Wuxian clarified, but it sounded more like an accusation.

I promised my brother I would keep it a secret.

Wen Ning is not an ‘it.’ He’s my friend, and I’m responsible for him!

I made a promise, Wei Wuxian. 

…

Anger still simmered, but the flames pulled back. Jin Guangyao asked you to keep some deadly promises.

Mo Xuanyu hunched his shoulders, looking down at his notes, trying to focus on them instead of the growing frost. Wei Wuxian pulled back; he had to do the same.

There was one point in our relationship where he trusted me. I won’t defend what we did. We treated Wen Ning horribly, and I’m glad he’s out. But I made a promise.

Wei Wuxian’s perspective on Mo Xuanyu shifted with that confession. He had already known Mo Xuanyu had claws underneath, but that he kept something like this… it made him unsure. He wanted to say to Mo Xuanyu that assisting in the hidden imprisonment of a fierce corpse read to him more as collusion instead of trust, but he didn’t.

… We will find him when we’re better, and you can apologize to him yourself. 

“I promise that I will make up for what the Jin Sect has done, as much as I can.” Mo Xuanyu whispered.

This isn’t about cleaning up their mess. It’s about your own actions.

Mo Xuanyu pinched the bridge of his nose. Wei Wuxian didn’t get it. Regardless if he was no longer in the Jin Sect, he…

Their mess is my mess. My mess is their mess.

Somehow, that made Wei Wuxian more frustrated, in a strange way. Save for Jin Ling, Wei Wuxian wanted to sever every single twisted connection between Mo Xuanyu and the Jin Sect to be severed. They hurt him. Wei Wuxian had a twisted urge to hurt them back, but he couldn’t if Mo Xuanyu talked like that.

I made you a promise, now. Mo Xuanyu continued. I promise that I will apologize and make up for my past actions and the actions of my family against Wen Ning. I keep my promises.

Fine, I’ll hold you to that.

Before Wei Wuxian could voice more of his thoughts, Lan Wangji returned, and Mo Xuanyu looked up from his notes, as if he had been studying over them and not having an argument.

“Found what you required?” Lan Wangji asked.

“Yeah, I have,” He held up the notes. “Idea for treatment.”

“Good.” There is a pause in his response, as Lan Wangji deliberated on what he should say next. “... It is time for dinner. Do you mind eating in the dining hall?”

Mo Xaunyu visibly grimaced. “... Do I have to?”

“If you don’t wish to, then you don’t have to. Sizhui and Jingyi asked how you were doing.”

“What? Why?” Wei Wuxian was still simmering in his thoughts and provided no backup or assistance. Mo Xuanyu imagined resting his head Wei Wuxian’s back, trying to ease both their minds. It worked one way, why not another?

The fire returned, only this time it was back to the usual hearth, warm, almost… fluttering?

X-Xuanyu? U-uh, um--this isn’t fair.

I don’t mean to make you angry. Mo Xuanyu’s inner voice was soft.

I know, I just… I want you to understand.

I do understand. More than you could possibly comprehend. Mo Xuanyu was speaking the truth. He trusted Wei Wuxian, and if Wei Wuxian was given reason not to trust him… he didn’t know if he could handle that. But it was still important not the break his other promises. It was all he had left.

Lan Wangji’s voice came through. “Because they are worried about your condition… the injuries, and how you felt, since you were apprehensive yesterday.”   

Mo Xuanyu was focused predominantly on Wei Wuxian, but even hearing the explanation was still hard to comprehend. Why would they be worried about him?

“... Then I guess I should eat in the hall…?”

“They can come visit after dinner, if preferable.”

It wasn’t. Not when he was slowly, ever so slowly, getting used to the Jingshi, Mo Xuanyu didn’t want anyone else to disrupt the space.

Lan Wangji mistook his further silence and gestured to the books. “... For now, we have to put the books back. Take your notes with you.”

“Yes, yes,” Mo Xuanyu sighed. Still treating him like an amateur, then. He knew how this worked! “... I’ll eat in the hall to say hello to your juniors.”

“Mn.” Lan Wangji nodded.

Mo Xuanyu sighed again and held up his notes to Lan Wangji in feigned nonchalance. “What do you think?”

Lan Wangji took a minute to read over them, appreciating the detail and small sketches of what ingredients were necessary, as well as descriptions. “En. Can check if the necessary ingredients are in our storage houses. Good work. May take time, though.” 

Mo Xuanyu felt himself warm under the praise, much like when Wei Wuxian praises him. And just as similarly, he doesn’t know what to do with it.

“It’s not that much. If someone else makes it, make sure they don’t taste it.”

“Mn… Have you ever made medicines before?”

Lan Wangji had some experience with it. It was a mandatory part of field training, and there was some crossover between it and cooking.

“Not… really.”

“... Can teach, if you like.”

Mo Xuanyu quickly corrected himself, his words rushing out. “I mean I’ve helped, and I know the theory but, but…”

The teachers didn’t like him; he was busy researching his brother, and too many other things he can’t say.

Still, Lan Wangji accepted the response. “Do you wish to learn to make this? It will be useful if you need to have it made again.”

“Doubtful, considering that anyone else who does what I did to get these won’t need a cure. They’d be dead.” Mo Xuanyu replied, tone matter of fact. 

Lan Wangji, once more, blinked, and offered no inquiry or comment. He was also used to Mo Xuanyu’s shifts into brutal honesty. 

Wei Wuxian’s ‘shoulder’ could still be ‘felt’ against his cheek, and his head tilted without him realizing it. Would you be able to make the poultice?

Technically, Wei Wuxian had some background in it. Wen Qing had put him to work collecting and grinding various medicines, but this was an opportunity for Mo Xuanyu and Lan Wangji to bond!

… Hm, I’m better with inventions. I know the basics, but herbs and all that stuff haven’t been my strong point.

He continued to hm and haw before Mo Xuanyu gave up on a clear answer, and quickly after his blunt statement, he replied to Lan Wangji.

“But, yes. I would like to learn.”

“Tomorrow, then.” Lan Wangji handed Mo Xuanyu back his notes,  collected the books from the table, and walked back to the shelves.

“Now, time to eat.”

Chapter Text

The dining hall of Cloud Recesses was startlingly quiet. Even though there were easily a hundred disciples and teachers, the noise level barely went above a single person’s speaking voice. Because of that, when Lan Wangji and Mo Xuanyu stepped into the dining hall the entire room buzzed like a thousand insects about to land on a rice paddy and ruin the crop. Mo Xuanyu froze at the door, overly conscious of his black clothing in the sea of white and the fact that nearly every eye was on him.

He should have refused. He should have gone back to the jingshi and eaten there. He should go and do that right now. Except… on the side, at the end of one of the long tables, was Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi. Though Lan Sizhui was sitting sedately as he attracted Xuanyu’s attention, Lan Jingyi was nearly vibrating out of his seat.

Mo Xuanyu glanced up. There was no adverse reaction on Lan Wangji’s face, which was placid as a reflecting pool. It would be okay. They did come here so that Mo Xuanyu could see Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui after all. Mo Xuanyu took a step, another, and made his way over to the space that they made for him.  

“Good evening, Young Master Mo,” said Lan Sizhui. “How are you feeling? You seem to have more color.”

Mo Xuanyu settled down and made his voice sound light. “Slept well. Hanguang-jun has been very generous of his time and space. But please, don’t call me that.”

Lan Jingyi nodded, pride seeping from the gesture. “As expected of Hanguang-jun. He is the perfect gentlemen!”

“His bed is certainly perfect.” Mo Xuanyu coughed into his fist at the bug-eyed looks he received from the two juniors. Would anyone believe that he hadn’t meant to say that?

I think these young ones have the wrong idea…

Not helping, Wuxian. Mo Xuanyu sighed at Wuxian’s uncontrollable giggles. It would take too long to convince them of the truth, anyway.

Lan Sizhui rallied first as the food was served. “Um, then what should we call you?”

“I don’t know, just not ‘Young Master.’ It’s not like that family wanted me in the first place.”

“W-well…” Lan Sizhui stared down at his serving for a moment in consideration. “Then, Senior Mo?”

“That works.” It was better, at least. Even if he was kicked out of the Jin Sect, he was still a senior. “And I was telling the truth at the Mo compound. I used to study Cultivation.”

Lan Sizhui smiled and nodded. “Yes, I could tell by your skills.”

Mo Xuanyu took a bite of his food, and he mentally patted himself on the back for not making a face at the bitterness, or from the sound of Wei Wuxian gagging in their head. When he had taken two more and gotten them down, he replied.

“Wasn’t that much. You two had a good handle on things until it went to shit.”

The whispers returned, accompanied by some affronted gasps. Why was everyone reacting like that? It wasn’t as if he cursed someone.

“Senior Mo, watch your language!” Lan Jingyi urged in a whisper that was far too loud to be called that.

Mo Xuanyu raised an eyebrow. “What else would you call the appearance of that ghost hand?”

“... Outhouse… bad?”

Wei Wuxian cackled, and Mo Xuanyu’s snicker quickly joined in, overlapping in a surprisingly pleasant way to his ears. “Yeah, that won’t work.”

Lan Jingyi looked ready to stand up and defend his honor when another junior disciple sitting nearby leaned in with a frown. “Excuse me, but can you refrain from talking about such things during evening meal?”

“...” Lan Jingyi settled back into his seat with a noticeable pout on his face. Lan Sizhui gently pat his shoulder and murmured something into his ear that Mo Xuanyu couldn’t hear. When he was finished, Lan Jingyi nodded his head, before turning a surprisingly stern gaze back to Mo Xuanyu. It was as if he was attempting to impersonate his revered teacher.

“You still shouldn’t be so vulgar. As Hanguang-jun's guest, it reflects badly on him.”

He’s said worse.

I have. Mo Xuanyu finished another bite of his meal. “Junior Lan, you haven’t even seen me get started on being vulgar.”

His eyes narrowed. “Is that a threat?”

“Ah, Jingyi, calm down… you will be the one doing lines if you talk out of turn.”

“Of course not,” Mo Xuanyu sighed. Were these children that sheltered? Then again, Lan Wangji grew up never eating tanghulu, so how these kids reacted to things regular children their age would already have a full breadth of written and verbal knowledge of wasn’t that surprising when he thought of about it.

Maybe it was time to enlighten them a little.

“Just saying that if you think one mild swear word is being vulgar, you haven’t heard a lot of vulgarity.” Mo Xuanyu continued.

Lan Jingyi’s face, strangely enough, brightened. “...There’s more…?”

“... Yes…?”

“More… bad words…?”

Oh no, you’ve created a monster.

Someone strike me down before I corrupt more Lan juniors.

I see it as “expanding their horizons.”

Mo Xuanyu looked loftily back at Lan Jingyi. “Yes. Why, do you want to know?”

“Ye-”

All the other juniors save for Lan Sizhui are staring at him with the intensity of an entire flock of sheep. It wasn’t that intense, but so all-encompassing that it made him stutter. “Uh, no, no…”

Lan Sizhui smiled again, leaning close to whisper back in his ear, but this time Mo Xuanyu only heard gibberish. Nobody appeared to admonish them for obvious gossip, either.

“The flowers have not bloomed… wait until spring?”

Lan Jingyi’s face turned pink, and he nodded.

… Wait, why did this exchange feel familiar to him? Well, he could think about it later.

“Just read some of your founder’s poetry. There’s plenty to learn there if you read with an open mind. Lan An had a wicked sense of humor.” Mo Xuanyu said, deciding he had to give some hint on where these innocent juniors could ‘expand their horizons.’

“Really?” Lan Jingyi replied. “I mean, founder’s poetry is fantastic, but I never thought…”

Not only the two juniors that asked for them to come, but several others begin to whisper and exchange notes around them, trying to choose which volumes to reread.

Mo Xuanyu leaned his head in, and inwardly snickered at how all the heads followed in a conspiratorial fashion. “A starting point for your corruption: flowers are not just flowers and mountains are not just mountains.

They all bow their heads. “Yes, Senior Mo.”

Once his knowledge was passed, Mo Xuanyu looked up and across the room at what was probably the table for clan elders and senior disciples, where Lan Wangji sat.

He caught his eye with ease and mouthed “sorry” with a very sheepish expression. It was evident that some trouble was now infecting their ranks, caused by the interloper with black robes.

But Lan Wangji didn’t look upset. He merely shrugged, and gave a small nod, probably for him to return to his meal.

Lan Xichen sat a little ways from his brother, and noticed the exchange, and lifted a sleeve to cover his weak smile. Despite his taciturn expression, Lan Xichen caught the warmth in his younger brother’s eyes when he exchanged glances with Mo Xuanyu.

Lan Qiren, on the other hand, appeared that he had just put something very sour into his mouth, as he tried to maintain his composure and finish his meal.

Well, guess we aren’t in trouble with Hanguang-jun. Wei Wuxain commented.

We are just distributing a new way to analyze their founder’s poetry after all.

And it’s on his head that we got it. We should put in our poem into his volume to find later.

So long as it’s obvious it’s our addition. Mo Xuanyu looked around. Stares were all coming his way, then flitting off to the side when he caught them. Perhaps it was all innocent. If most of the sect members who stayed in Cloud Recesses were as disinterested in gossip as Lan Wangji, then the stares were just because he was new. Even so, every speck of attention was like some stinging insect against his skin.

… Wuxian, can we switch?

Of course! Mo Xuanyu ducked his head down for a moment, mimicking another bite of his food, and when his head lifted, Wei Wuxian was in control. Just as he attracted attention back at Buddha’s Feet, Wei Wuxian asked questions about the surrounding juniors, flitting off from one conversation point to the next. Instead of shrinking from the insects, he brought them in, like moths to an open flame, making them flutter and dance around him, but never draw in too close.

Mo Xuanyu was filled with relief when he could relax in their shared mental space. All these people truly were doing a number on his nerves, but when he heard Lan Sizhui laugh at a funny face Lan Jingyi pulled, he realized that, maybe, it was worth braving the crowd to see the two juniors again.

As he was talking, Wei Wuxian checked up on him. We’ll beg off to have meals in Lan Zhan’s place from now on, but I’m glad you seemed to be having a good time. You were brave.

I just don’t like too many people. There are very notable exceptions.

Wei Wuxian smiled more brightly. Are the juniors slowly but surely becoming amongst such an esteemed group?

Do you mean do I like them as much as I like you?

Huh? Wei Wuxian nearly dropped the cup he had been drinking from at the question, before righting himself. I-I mean, you’re kind of stuck with me, so I suppose I don’t count…

More like you’re stuck with me. But you do count.

That’s nice to hear. Wei Wuxian frowned as he continued. But, you’re too much fun to be around to be “stuck with,” Xuanyu.

… Even when you’re frustrated with me? Mo Xuanyu was, despite being shown time and again Wei Wuxian wasn’t like that, at least so far, he was still afraid. Especially after their argument in the library.
Even then. I rather you be here than not be here.

He knew that slowly but surely he had grown to accept that, but to hear it so clearly, it made Mo Xuanyu want to hold that response close to his chest and never let it go. In response, he settled close to Wei Wuxian, as if they were sitting beside each other on the bench, his thigh pressing against the other man’s.

“As I was say-y-yuh--” Wei Wuxian’s response stuttered out at the illusion of close contact, and his face turned bright red.

“Senior Mo, are you feeling well?” Lan Sizhui asked in concern.

“I’m fine! Perfectly well, thank you!”

Dinner’s end brought, once more, last night’s previous issue.

Think we’re going to argue again about who takes the bed? Mo Xuanyu asked, already semi-defeated.
I just think he’s going to insist we have it again.

Lan Wangji walked over to take down the blankets he put down before, setting up his area near the desk again, but now talking as he worked. “Do you need to bathe and redress your bandages?”

Though Wei Wuxian was still in control, Mo Xuanyu felt an immense desire to hunch over. I don’t think he’ll leave us alone this time.

Not after they had tried to make their escape. Mo Xuanyu did not want to be that close in proximity to Lan Wangji and no one else when he was that vulnerable, even with Wei Wuxian in control.

Thankfully, Wei Wuxian understood his intent and waved a hand as if to shoo away an unpleasant thought. “Oh, no need! Say, Hanguang-jun,” He strolled over to the makeshift bed, hands folded behind his back as he leaned forward, a teasing glint in his eye. “You really should take the bed tonight. After that meal, people may have made assumptions about the character of our relationship.”
Lan Wangji stared at Wei Wuxian for a moment, before looking down to finishing up the blankets. “... Don’t mind.”

Wei Wuxian blinked. “... Pardon?”

He raised to his full height at the request, voice more clear. “I don’t mind. It doesn’t matter to me, what they think.”
… This man, this man certainly was too pretty, too intense, and too strange for his own good.

Not our fault when rumors start that say we’ve been fucking like rabbits back here.

Wei Wuxian moved away from his consideration of Lan Wangji’s declaration to snicker at Mo Xuanyu’s blunt delivery. “Rabbits…”

“... Want to see rabbits?” Lan Wangji asked.

“Oh, uh, sure?” Shoot, he said that out loud.

“... Mn.” Lan Wangji nodded. “Tomorrow, we can go see them.”

The declaration made Wei Wuxian pause and inwardly reel back. It took him a moment to respond, with Lan Wangji’s eyebrows furrowing. The movement made Wei Wuxian want to press his finger along them and smooth them out, but he would never, ever act on a thing like that. “Well, uh, it’s a plan. Good night, Hanguang-jun.”

He turned away and marched back to bed before Lan Wangji replied with his own, softer good night.

He keeps rabbits. Oh, this will be a sight to see. Mo Xuanyu snickered.

Wei Wuxian was silent as he climbed into bed, before speaking, half to himself. He… he kept them… for this long?

… When did you give him rabbits?

Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, pretending to be asleep as Lan Wangji moved through his nightly routine, while telling Mo Xuanyu the story about finding rabbits while hunting just outside of the Cloud Recesses when he and Lan Wangji were around Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi’s age, and how he presented them as a gift to Lan Wangji.

But, they would have to be ancient in rabbit years by now! Rabbits can’t live that long!

Mo Xuanyu saw under his explosive response, though. And asking him if they were would mean telling him that you’re here…

Which, of course, would be a terrible idea.

Maybe, maybe not.

Do you want to take that risk? Wei Wuxian fired back, but then reeled his emotions back. Look, let’s take what kindness we can get.

If you say so. Which meant that Mo Xuanyu would have more to say in response, and he did. But you’re making things quite confusing. You say that he’s upstanding and I should trust him to be that way, but you also… don’t trust him to be upstanding.
I trust him to do the right thing for someone who has done no harm. I have harmed.

The whole cultivation world called his life ‘harmful,’ and he eventually died as a consequence.

But Mo Xuanyu didn’t drop it.

Then I can’t trust him either.

Wei Wuxian let out a frustrated huff. … Xuanyu, even though I’m not as bad as rumors have lead everyone to believe, I’m still dangerous. I will always be dangerous. You think… too good of me.

Wen Ning.

But, Mo Xuanyu has ‘done harm,’ if not in the cultivation world’s eyes, then in Wei Wuxian’s.

… Fair point.

Wei Wuxian imagined resting his head against Mo Xuanyu’s back as they lay in bed. He stiffened at the feeling, a brief layer of ice between them for a moment before his bodily sensation caught up to his mind and it melted away.

If Hanguang-jun turns out to be the kind of person that doesn’t consider Wen Ning a person, then… not worth it.

Somehow, Wei Wuxian thought that they might not be talking about Wen Ning here.

Yeah. Thank you, Xuanyu.

For what? Go to sleep.

Wei Wuxian smiled as he snuggled further into the mattress. For just being yourself, even if you are frustrating at times.

Ass.

Wei Wuxian fell asleep soon after that, but Mo Xuanyu waited up a moment longer, still focusing on the warmth against his ‘back,’ and the sound of even breathing from the other side of the jingshi. I hope that I’m right, though. And Hanguang-jun is everything he seems.

After breakfast the next morning, Lan Wangji lead them to another side of the mountain, separated by a small stone wall that looked much less ancient than the one that surrounded the entrance. And in front of it were two familiar faces waiting.

Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi bowed in near identical manners. “Good morning, Hanguang-jun and Senior Mo!”

Awwh, maybe these two are the cute rabbits Lan Zhan truly raised. Wei Wuxian remarked in a joking manner.

“Good morning,” Lan Wangji replied, and Mo Xuanyu nodded. “Finished morning studies?”

Lan Jingyi’s calm facade immediately fell as he gnawed at his lip. “...”

Why do I have a feeling that means “no”? Mo Xuanyu thought.

Thankfully, Lan Sizhui interceded. “Jingyi promised to help me feed the rabbits this morning, and couldn’t go back on his word.”

“Very well.”

Lan Jingyi’s shoulders relaxed.

“After.”

“Yes, Hanguang-jun.” Lan Jingyi looked to the side with a small pout.

Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian shared a mutual chuckle. Lan Jingyi was entertaining. The former stepped forward and gave the juniors small bows in return. “Mind if I enter the hutch grounds?”

Both juniors then went into a thorough discussion of what and what was not permissible in the hutch grounds, how to handle the rabbits (or not handle the rabbits if they wished not to be handled), and warnings on accidentally stepping in rabbit leavings, and not to overreact to it. Lan Wangji added hums of agreement now and then.

Mo Xuanyu nodded along to the instructions, his resting expression falling into a soft smile, while his hands are tucked up on opposite sleeves. He was paying attention, but he also felt surprisingly peaceful.

When all instructions were covered, the juniors entered through the small wooden door to the gate, with Lan Wangji holding it open after for Mo Xuanyu. Once they entered, they passed through a copse of trees that gave the hutch natural cover. Once they finally clear that, Mo Xuanyu saw a collection of not just one, but possibly half a dozen rabbit hutches, and many small, fluffy creatures were littering the surrounding area. 

While the juniors and Lan Wangji go to their usual tasks, Mo Xuanyu found a place to sit that is relatively free of bunny poop and waited for the rabbits to come to him. He smiled still, watching the scene.

Xuanyu… I really want to see your face.

It’s nothing special, just my face.

With more than a little amusement, he and Wei Wuxian also watched Lan Wangji be interrupted with his tasks as a many crowded around his robes. He leaned down to give a few gentle pets that did so very little to dissuade the small army assembling around him. Finally, he picked up one, a small black one,  and walked over to Mo Xuanyu. The rabbits followed.

When he is within arm’s length away, he crouched down. Their proximity brought the rabbits cautiously forward to inspect Mo Xuanyu, but soon they begin to hop around him, bumping his knees with their noses, nibbling his sleeves, and the more adventurous ones even crawl into his lap. Lan Wangji holds out the black rabbit, a voiceless request.

Mo Xuanyu’s expression shifted to quiet wonder as he took the black rabbit from Lan Wangji’s hands and put it with the other brave rabbits that had climbed into his lap. His hands softly pet the animals. Their fur was soft, silky almost, and incredibly plush.

Perhaps it was strange, but Mo Xuanyu would easily say that he liked animals much more than he liked people. Animals didn’t care about what your past was, what you did or didn’t do. They just cared that you were there, being kind to them, and only asked that you existed. To be allowed just to be, that was a small treasure.

Lan Wangji watched Mo Xuanyu get buried in bunnies, content behind his unchanging expression. Mo Xuanyu, and he is sure that it is Mo Xuanyu, is again unguarded, and the result makes him feel warm inside. His burden of the black rabbit lifted, Lan Wangji turned his back to the scene and went to double check the tidiness of the rabbit hutches.

As more rabbits moved towards Mo Xuanyu, Wei Wuxian restated, I would really like to see your face smiling, sometime. I really would. The smile is what’s special.

If you say so. Mo Xuanyu ducked his red face down. It was easier to pretend that he was concentrating far more on the rabbits that have decided his lap is a perfect resting place and thwarting the efforts of the animals that are trying to crawl up his sleeves.

I do say so.

Mo Xuanyu spent a few minutes enjoying the feeling of being enveloped by rabbits when Lan Sizhui walked forward and crouched down beside them.

“Senior Mo, do you require assistance?” He asked, feeling a prick of sympathy for how the rabbits swarmed. It reminded him of when he would be similarly buried when he was a child. He still had no proof on whether or not it had accelerated a growth spurt.  

Mo Xuanyu looked up and shook his head, a blush still evident across his face. “No, no, I’m fine. I… I like it. I just hope they don’t shit on me, but might be unavoidable.”

Lan Sizhui smiled good-naturedly at the honest answer. “The hazards of keeping rabbits, I suppose. You grow used to it.”

One of the older rabbits clambered out of Mo Xuanyu’s lap and hopped over to him and rested their paws on his knee, sniffing. Lan Sizhui answered with a gentle pet down the rabbit’s back.

Huh, guess Lan Sizhui must have been around this since he was very young.

Wei Wuxian’s comment brought something they discussed earlier to mind. “Hmm… did you know the originals?”

Lan Sizhui tilted his head in slight confusion. “Originals…?”

Soon, however, his eyes lit up. “Oh. A-Xian and Jiji!”

Mo Xuanyu smirked as he felt a fluttering of warmth come from Wei Wuxian, and it grew as he imagined poking his cheeks, mimicking the movement with a gentle stroke along one rabbit’s ear. “A-Xian? That’s a cute name.”

Q-quit it…

“I… suppose? Anyway, yes, I did. A-Xian and Jiji were always together, which is quite uncommon for bucks. Hanguang-jun said that they came here together, so that might have been the reason.”

It must have been almost two decades since they were taken in, which meant…

Mo Xuanyu’s expression turned a little melancholy. “Are they still around, or…”

Lan Sizhui’s smile dampens. “I’m afraid not. They passed away a few years ago… rabbits can only live for so long. But, they were thought to have grown into extreme old age, and lived happy lives.”

I bet rabbit A-Xian was just like you. Mo Xuanyu teased to Wei Wuxian. Good thing he had a friend to keep him company, otherwise who knows what trouble he could have wrecked.

Hush! And… they, they… well, I got them, so it makes sense I would be a namesake! How did he find out Uncle and Shijie’s nickname for me, though?

Maybe he didn’t. It is a natural shortening of your name. I wonder who Jiji was named for…

He trailed off, but Wei Wuxian did not offer a suggestion, which spoke volumes to Mo Xuanyu.

Still, Lan Sizhui was there, and he had to answer.

“Too bad. But at least they lived here rather than being put in a pot for stew.”

Stewed rabbit is good!

Lan Sizhui shrugged. He had to see off a fair number of his rabbit friends over the years, and though it was sad, he grew accustomed. “It isn’t that bad. Death is simply another part of life.”

Both Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian were surprised to hear sentiment like that from someone still so young.

“So it is,” Mo Xuanyu replied, but then focused on the softness that surrounded him, the tiny heartbeats that went faster than his own, but still beat as strongly. “But, sometimes it’s nice to celebrate when it has been dodged.”

“That’s also true— eh?”

Mo Xuanyu had to hold back a small chuckle as he saw Lan Jingyi sit a kit on top of Sizhui’s head, just small enough to stay, but obviously looking ready to squirm around.

“Hehe, you deserve to be showered in rabbits, too!”

Lan Sizhui’s pale face now turned a vibrant pink at the cheeks and on the top of his nose, but he will lose balance if he tries to reach for the kit.  “Jingyi that’s… don’t tease me.”

Thankfully, Mo Xuanyu reached up and took the kit in his hands before it could fall from Lan Sizhui’s head. “Only I am allowed in the rabbit shower right now.”

A good senior, protecting the younger disciples from teasing. Wei Wuxian replied.

Hopefully this time it will actually work.

“Thank you, Senior Mo.” Lan Sizhui turned back to Lan Jingyi, stood up and pouted with hands on his hips. “Well then. Today’s the last time I help you with your studies.”

The teasing grin immediately vanished from Lan Jingyi’s face, and his arm quickly circled Lan Sizhui’s shoulders as he began to rock back and forth, whining mournfully. “Nooooo please don’t I’ll be lost without youuuu. I will only be known as the Lan that always does handstands!”

“Would serve you right.” Lan Sizhui replied, but there was no venom in his tone, and a small smile was crawling up his face.

I say it was a success.

But Mo Xuanyu’s attention turned to the kit, holding it close to his nose, and nuzzled his face against the tiny one. The kit’s eyes are barely open, but it nuzzled back. Mo Xuanyu cradled them with one hand against his chest as he gently removed the other rabbits from his lap, before getting to his feet, and mumbling to himself. “Where is this one’s mother? Better to put it back with its fellows.”

While he left the juniors to their antics, he turned and walked back to the hutch, where Lan Wangji had tied his long sleeves back and away, leaving his forearms exposed, as he settled new hay in one of the hutches.

Arms like a war god arms like a war god arms like a war god--

No impure thoughts in the Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian interrupted.

Hush, you!

When Mo Xuanyu stepped closer, Lan Wangji noticed his presence and the kit in his arm. He immediately understood and nodded. “This way.”

“... Thank you.”

“Mn.”

As they stepped closer, he got to see the design of the small rabbit houses. The hutches were all carved neatly with weather-resistant wood, with plenty of fresh hay and a few small ramps to allow them to climb up and down with ease. Lan Wangji sat gracefully on his knees beside one of them, and gestured for Mo Xuanyu to do the same. He followed, sitting beside him. Their legs almost touch, but not quite. Lan Wangji pointed inside one of the openings, where a small bundle of sleeping kits of similar coloring as the one in Mo Xuanyu’s hands, are sleeping.

“Settle in there.”

Mo Xuanyu kissed the kit’s head, then gently placed it with its fellows. “Sleep well.”

Lan Wangji’s breath caught in his throat. Mo Xuanyu always treated animals with gentleness, at least from what he could see with Apple. But seeing his rabbits, ones he raised, being treated in the same manner, made him feel… good. If he could think of other terms, he probably would.

“... Do you like them?” Lan Wangji asked.

“Yes. Animals are always nice,” Mo Xuanyu answered. Maybe the warmth and safety the hutch exuded did make him feel less guarded because he voiced his thoughts. “They don’t care who you are, just that you’re there.”

“... En. They are nice.”

The peacefulness Mo Xuanyu felt watching the kit cuddle with its siblings, however, was interrupted by another voice.

Xuanyu, cuddle A-Xian, too~

“A-Xian” lost all cuddle privileges. Mo Xuanyu answered flatly.

There is silence, then a small whine. … So cruel…

When I need to be. Mo Xuanyu answered simply.

What did I do to deserve this injustice?

You ask for impossible things. You’re my Wuxian, not A-Xian.

Yet.

Oh… oh, sorry for trying to force a nickname you don’t like. I get it.

Do you really? Because once more, Wei Wuxian did not get it at all. Mo Xuanyu didn’t even get it. He was pulling an excuse out of his ass.

Only this time, Wei Wuxian didn’t reply with his usual bravado. Would you prefer to tell me what I missed?

I like you, but I don’t want to be on such intimate terms.

Wei Wuxian, unknown to Mo Xuanyu, clutched that ‘I like you’ close to his very being. Every single admittance of ‘like’ was stored and sequestered away, deep inside his soul. If he knew this, Wei Wuxian was sure that Mo Xuanyu would tease him incessantly. Wei Wuxian would tease himself incessantly!

Of course. I got carried away with my teasing.

Before Mo Xuanyu could respond, he felt something brush against his arm, and he looked just as a lock of Lan Wangji’s hair brushed against his sleeve as he got to his feet. He remained kneeling, looking up at Lan Wangji, and once more appreciating how the daylight seeped through the stray strands.

“Leaving already?”

Lan Wangji untied his sleeves, covering his skin once more, and it was in that moment, Wei Wuxain faintly remembered seeing the rest of his body bare in the spring, and thought how the sight would look, comparing moonlight and daylight, but then as soon as the thought passed, it was gone.

“... Have other duties.”

“I suppose.” Mo Xuanyu got up and brushed any grass that stuck to his knees.

Lan Wangji raised a hand in an unfruitful motion to stop him. “Stay, if you wish.”

But he shook his head. “No, I ought to visit Apple, too.”

“Mm. He is a troublemaker.”

“Which is why I should visit him so that he won’t make trouble.”

However, while he’s talking with Lan Wangji, he imagined leaning against Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. If they were all here, Wei Wuxian would be right in the middle of him and Lan Wangji. Part of him wondered, then, who would be taller? Was Wei Wuxain taller than him? It was a strange thought, but one that still crossed his mind.

Wei Wuxian leaned back, supporting the illusion. Want to switch?

Later. Maybe after Apple.  

He was, reluctantly, getting used to being in the Cloud Recesses.

Lan Wangji led the way to the stable where Apple had been put up. As they got closer, there were the apparent sounds that a scuffle was taking place. They turned the corner to see that, true to form, the donkey was causing trouble for the pair of juniors that were trying to groom him. He snapped at their fingers and spit at their faces. Unlike Wei Wuxian that one time, the Lan juniors managed to dodge the projectiles. However, it meant that Apple had more reason to try to spit at them more.

Apple was about to make another go at biting when he saw his master coming up. He trotted forward and thunked his head against Mo Xuanyu’s chest.

“Hey there, Trouble.” Mo Xuanyu said, giving Apple a hug. “Why don’t you be nice to the juniors who want to brush you? Are you as picky about your people as you are your food?”

Apple gave a huff and shifted his tail as if trying to deny the question.

He’s rude to anyone he doesn’t think is pretty enough. Wei Wuxian almost seemed gratified that he wasn’t the only one that Apple reacted negatively too.

“Apologies, Senior Mo,” One junior said. “He has been a little... difficult.”

The second junior was less circumspect. “I like Hanguang-jun’s rabbits better.”

They both froze under the unimpressed stare Lan Wangji gave them. With an air of giving a lesson, Lan Wangji pulled an apple from his sleeve and offered it out.

Apple took one step towards Lan Wangji. Then another. When the fruit didn’t disappear or move away, he moved all the way over to munch on it.

“No, no, it’s fine.” Mo Xuanyu said while Apple was getting distracted by his namesake. “I know that my Apple is picky and bitter to people. You just have to be nice to him and bribe him with food, as Hanguang-jun has.”

“Can groom now.”

The two juniors looked between mo Xuanyu, the donkey, and Lan Wangji. “Oh.” With slow movements, they finally began to groom Apple, brushing his coat, mane, and tail.

Apple, for his part, was now perfectly content. He had his favorite person and his favorite food. What else could a donkey ask for? Aside from more apples.

So spoiled.

Mo Xuanyu ignored Wei Wuxian’s commentary and pet Apple’s forehead. “I’m sorry. I think he was spoiled before I took him from Mo Village.”

So you continued it. You treat him like you did that baby rabbit!

“It’s fine.” Lan Wangji hadn’t moved an inch while Apple ate his apple. “Doesn’t kick.”

Apple raised one back hoof as if to put a lie to Lan Wangji’s words.

Mo Xuanyu gave the donkey a light knock on his forehead. “Don’t.”

With instant guilt, Apple lowered his leg and asked forgiveness by chewing on the end of Mo Xuanyu’s sleeve.

Brat.

“Good boy.” 

Apple gave a small huff and went back to enjoying his meal.

Mo Xuanyu replied to Wei Wuxian in a teasing lilt. You’re also a brat, He’s learned it from his father.

Oh, I’m the father? Well, if he takes after me, I suppose it is the mother’s duty to keep his son in line. Wei Wuxian countered.

Mo Xuanyu attempted to give a ‘put upon’ tone to his words. I do my best, but sometimes even dearest husband and father must take responsibility for his doing.

Instead of claiming ‘mother’s’ responsibility, Wei Wuxian’s voice turned pitiful and soft, almost making it as if he was speaking into Mo Xuanyu’s ear. Ahhh, why did I marry a beloved wife that has this husband wrapped around his finger? This husband swears to be better.

When Lan Wangji looked over at Mo Xuanyu, he noticed his face had gone very red.

Okay okay stop stop I shouldn’t have encouraged you. Mo Xuanyu thoughts scrambled and crashed together, and he tried his best not to cover his ear, because that would make absolutely no sense when it wasn’t even real even when it sounded like Wei Wuxian was right there--

He blinked as he looked up, and after seeing that Lan Wangji noticed, he looked away again.

I’m sorry~ Wei Wuxian doesn’t sound sorry in the slightest. Revenge for making me blush in front of the juniors last night.

Fuck you. Like he had intended to do that! And those were around innocent juniors, not around Lan Wangji!

“... You look better.” Lan Wangji broke through the mental exchange with as much tact as Bichen landing between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng back on Dafan mountain.

Mo Xuanyu made a tiny side step, not so much moving away, but… he doesn’t know what to do with that. “Oh.”

Noticing the small movement, Apple turns, nuzzling his nose against Mo Xuanyu’s arm, and also putting himself more clearly between him and Lan Wangji.

“The color, in face.” Lan Wangji replied, before realizing he still isn’t making much sense. “... I apologize. Not sure how to describe, seem better than before.”

“It’s fine, Hanguang-jun. I don’t know what to do with compliments.”

“Oh.”

“Don’t worry about it.”

Wei Wuxian, once more, butted in with all the tact of a water buffalo. Maybe it is a chance to learn? And I don’t think... he meant as a compliment, he’s just happy you are feeling better.

Learn that not every nice thing said to me is someone looking for an opening to take more than I want to give? Yeah, that’s not going to get better in a day.

Lan Wangji is silent, but there is a small furrow between his eyes.

I’m sorry. Wei Wuxian replied, sounding far more genuine than he had a right to be after the teasing earlier.

Mo Xuanyu sighed. Both of them were hopeless. He reached up and poked Lan Wangji between the eyes, and imagined doing the same to Wei Wuxian. His next words were meant for both of them. “Despite how we met, it’s going to take more than that for me to break.”

Wei Wuxian understood his intent. Alright, but as you did just now, let me know if it’s too much.

Lan Wangji, eyes crossed from looking at the finger, is less eloquent. “En.”

“En.” Mo Xuanyu nodded as if a pronouncement had been made. For Lan Wangji, he has grown to learn, it was.

The juniors slowed their brushing as they watched their esteemed senior and his… guest, interact, and were slowly compiling everything that they saw to memory to share amongst their fellows.

A romance, right in front of their eyes!

After visiting the animals, Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu went with Lan Wangji to receive a quick lesson in compounding medicines. Shen Qiao was the resident herbs mistress of Cloud Recesses. A plump woman, she trundled about the space picking out the ingredients that Mo Xuanyu needed with only the barest glances at her shelves. Her presence was like Cook at the Mo estate: fierce, uncompromising about her standards and space, and held no interest in Mo Xuanyu. It was gratifying.

Shen Qiao allowed them a table to do their experiment and lesson on, magnanimous as a noble doing a favor for another, before she bustled off to the other side of the room. Lan Wangji quietly walked Mo Xuanyu through the different ways to process the plants to make the poultice additive he and Wei Wuxian had come up with.  

For all that Wei Wuxian wanted this moment to be one for Mo Xuanyu and Lan Wangji to bond, he was also bored. Compounding medicines wasn’t all that exciting, even when Physician Wen has made him help. Sure, it was interesting to think of how different things interacted with each other, but the result wasn’t as tangible as his inventions were.

Hey, what was the Second Lady Mo like?

Mo Xuanyu stopped pounding with the mortar and pedestal. It was a long enough pause that Lan Wangji looked at him in concern before Mo Xuanyu shook his head. He continued pounding with renewed vigor while he replied.

Mother… was very pretty, very proud. She always talked about my father even when he never spoke to us, and spoiled me. When my father sent for me, that was the happiest day in her life, I think. He hadn’t spoken or even acknowledged us for ten years at that point. I was to make good despite my illegitimacy, and I shamed her greatly instead.

Old Sect Leader Jin didn’t deserve such faithfulness. Wei Wuxian held in a flinch. He could feel the thin sheen of ice that had covered Mo Xuanyu on that final sentence. No doubt he loved her, but parents were always complicated. Hm… What did she spoil you with?

He was very good at making promises, but not in keeping them. The emotional ice shifted, broke, refroze, and melted. My mother would give me attention, is all. I’d talk all the time as a child, and she would listen, no matter what the topic was, even if I was being a brat. I even was talking about boys back then when I should have been talking about girls.

Hmm, well, since we’re partners for the foreseeable future, I think you should be able to do that with me. Not that I can take your mother’s place, but if you want to talk about anything or handsome men, go right ahead! Even if you want to throw a tantrum!

Hey!

Now, now, young men need to let out their emotions once in a while, not that anyone at the Cloud Recesses would know that.

Mo Xuanyu rubbed his face with both hands, but it was mostly to cover his smile as he turned Wei Wuxian’s offer over in his mind. Did... Did the man not know what he had been doing the entire time that they had been in this situation? Did he not know that he had been sitting and listening to him for over a week, and more importantly had been responding to him. It did not matter that he was as critical as he was encouraging. He still listened and responded.

“Dunce.” Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help but breathe the word out loud. This man, Wei Wuxian, he was something special. Please don’t ever offer to take my mother’s place ever again. It’s creepy.

The night air was filled with the sounds of nature: insects, nighttime predators, and the swaying of trees.

All of which masked the sound of chains as they dragged through the dirt. He had followed them, taking a longer route, but he could sense the one that called him, always. He had been quiet, all these years, but now the song played again, and he answered the call.

However, the song was… different from before. There had been another melody, and he could sense another soul, looming over as the song played, as he obeyed. But… it had been, somehow, familiar, too.

He had to get to his master.

He couldn’t think about who he was, or who his master was, just that he must follow. Master could help the searing pain in his skull, that made him unable to speak, to think properly. Only instincts carried him this far. So when he heard the sound of a flute being played with power behind it, he could just react. He had tried to cross the barrier, but the protective talismans stopped him from going any further. The flute still played.

He had to find his master before it stopped--!
So he ran, all the way to the other side of the mountain, the side too high and covered in overgrowth to be entered by any normal human. He ran and ran, following the sound, until he could see the cottage, and the figure outside playing. It wasn’t his master, but… it looked like, from his position in the forest, like the other man his master had been with. He couldn’t remember his name but remembered the white robes, the long black hair.

He crept, softly, very softly , forward.

He had to go in closer than his other, weaker, self-preservational instincts told him not to go, but the flute could not go unanswered.

The man was not the man with master, but the sight of him stirred… energy, deep in his gut. This close, he only had to make a quick leap from his place in the thicket, and land beside the man, but the song… the song kept him in place, calm, and he took it in as he took in the sight of him with his eyes.

He saw the loose wrap the white robes had around the man’s powerful body, allowing the sleeves to slip down and reveal shapely wrists to go with the long, elegant fingers that danced along the flute. The man’s eyes were closed, moving with the music he called into being.

He moved his head, back and forth, watching the long black hair move with the night breeze.

The more he listened, the more he thought he might have heard this song before, deep in the darkness where he had dwelled for as long as he could remember. He was so bereft after losing… losing… sisterauntieuncleyuanmastereveryone everyone --!

His mouth opened in a silent cry, and for some strange reason, when he heard the flute, he wished he could weep again.

Again?

He could weep… he could…

But before he could grasp it, the song was finished. The emotion passed. He couldn’t focus on it again, so he watched for another sign. The man untucked himself from the kneeling position, revealing bare feet. The sight of them stirred another emotion, that if he could still blush, he would. It was so intimate a view, and he was starting to think it was wrong to watch, but… but he couldn’t move.

He remained, sitting there, watching, and when the man went inside, he closed his eyes, and amongst the blend of sounds in the night air, he could hear the music of the man’s breathing and remained until dawn.

Chapter Text

The third morning they woke to chaos.

Lan Xichen had left for Lanling the previous afternoon. Once he was gone, Lan Qiren had finished with his analysis of the Ghost Arm and prepared it for summoning its owner’s spirit. Of course, Lan Wangji was among those called to try to keep it calm and find out what the spirit wanted. He left Mo Xuanyu to sleep, as hopefully they’d be able to finish calming the spirit before the man, and his soul companion, woke for the day.

Unfortunately, much like its first encounter with it at Mo Village, the arm was more powerful than anyone had thought. When Mo Xuanyu awoke, the usually tranquil Cloud Recesses was filled with sounds of mayhem.

They’re trying to talk to the ghost arm. Wei Wuxian said and, when neither saw Lan Wangji, they set off towards the chaos, where they were sure to find him.

Why are they doing it when it caused so many problems already? It was easy to find where the center of the storm was, they just needed to follow the sounds of pain and where bloodied disciples were staggering away from.

“Shit.” We need to help.

He grabbed a passing disciple. “Where’s Hanguang-jun?”

Bells were ringing out amongst the growing chaos, nearly making it impossible to hear. But the disciple pointed shakily to the west to the watchtower.

“He... he told me to run away...”

Flames erupted inside the shared space.

We’re wasting time, let’s go!

Right. Mo Xuanyu double-checked their belt, feeling the tube of their rough flute. Would it be enough? It would have to be enough. Though another disciple tried to prevent them from going through the door, Xuanyu batted them away and went forward anyway.

Wuxian, switch. I don’t know any songs to help.

Right.

Wei Wuxian took control, his hands going to pluck the flute up and close to his lips as they entered, nearly staggering at the amount of resentful energy that coated him, before pressing onward. This was his element, his domain, and no way would he be going back out without Lan Wangji.

It was probably strange for Wei Wuxian to feel their eyes moving independently of his own will, but Mo Xuanyu was trying to take in all he could. Wangji was on one end, the older man passed out at the cardinal direction next to him, but the direction across was free.

There! Then... do what you do best I guess...

Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help but feel lost. He could name all the signs on the floor what they did and how they worked together, but actually trying to suppress the corpse arm was a thought beyond him.

The strings of the guqin were playing independently of Lan Wangji’s fingers, while his eyes landed on Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu. They widened a fraction, before the sound of the arm’s struggle brought his attention back. The song urged on, playing what Wei Wuxian recognized as “Evocation.”

Wei Wuxian stepped up and began to play Evocation... badly. It was ridiculous, when he could learn any tune by ear, but doing so might make Lan Wangji far too suspicious. Even at a time like this, he had to conceal his presence—

Wei Wuxian felt something like a slap against the back of his head.

Properly. Now is not the time!

But—!

No buts! Do you want anyone else to get hurt? Or yourself to get hurt? Play properly!

Wei Wuxian’s playing turned even, matching the guqin, but the arm still flailed, seemingly growing angrier as Evocation continued. It becoming clear that it was very possible that not only the body, but the arm’s soul was split apart!

Lan Wangji’s playing switched to a more gentle tune, one that both of them recognized on their journey to Gusu: Rest. To soothe the arm’s savagery. Wei Wuxian joined in on the bamboo flute, and once again wished he had Chenqing. Even if he couldn’t control the arm, at least he could quell some of the dark energy.

Strange, very strange. It seemed to Mo Xuanyu that the arm was pointing in a certain direction. A finger extended out while the rest curled into the palm. He put he thought to the side, there was a better time to bring it up, and not when it was still trying to attack in limp gestures.

Eventually, the overpowering feeling of rage subsided, leaving only two figures still standing in the room. Lan Wangji immediately went to Lan Qiren and kneeled down to check over his vitals, while the sound of other sect members running in came through.

Among them were Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi, who rushed over to Lan Qiren, with Lan Jingyi exclaiming in horror.

“Old man!”

Suddenly, Lan Qiren sat up.

“Don’t call me that!”

And then immediately fell back down.

Well... that was unexpected. Mo Xuanyu couldn't help but feel relief. Yes, people were hurt, but even the oldest person involved here wasn't hurt so badly that they would need to fear for his life. They shifted their gaze back to the center of the room.

Do you think... it's pointing at something specific?

The arm was still, but remained tense. For now, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had calmed it with the duet, yet the air around it felt charged with something that Mo Xuanyu felt instinctively fearful of, like looking a tiger in the eyes as it was waiting to pounce.

North. Xuanyu had their head turn to follow the direction it was pointing in. right now it was just pointing at the wall, but further beyond that...

Qinghe is north of Gusu, isn't it? Mo Xuanyu asked, trying his best to sound… he didn’t know how to sound. A way that didn’t make Wei Wuxian suspicious, even if he was only addressing geography.

Wei Wuxian nodded. Yes... perhaps even if we didn’t summon our dear friend’s spirit, he indeed is pointing us in a possible direction on where we can.

Seeing that his uncle was not terribly injured, Lan Wangji walked over to them, shifting his eyes back at the arm, as if pointing with his gaze. “...”

Wei Wuxian grinned. “It seems we have a path to take, Hanguang-jun.”

“En,” Lan Wangji replied, though he seemed slightly withdrawn. “... If you… wish to stay, or go, then--”

“Hold on,” Wei Wuxian raised a hand to stop him, smiling, and walked up, using the flute to tap Lan Wangji’s chin. “You trying to get rid of me, Hanguang-jun?”

“No, I--”

The flute tapped his lips, and he stalled.

“Just a joke. I think we all need a little levity at the moment,” Wei Wuxian replied, before tucking the flute back into his belt. “Besides, we both need to play Rest to get our dear friend under control now.”

“...En.” Lan Wangji nodded. “...Apologies, for not being clear. I need your expertise for this investigation.”

Wei Wuxian was still smiling, but it turned a bit softer. “Good that we’re clear, now.”

I’ll say. Xuanyu seemed to be crossing his arms in a stance that was pure stubbornness. We aren’t letting Hanguang-jun go on his own. And if anyone tries to stop us, we go anyway.

Ohohoho, you are very protective. Wuxian couldn’t hide the grin that continued to spread on his face, so he didn’t even try.

And you aren't? who's the one that nearly burned away our mental space before I agreed to go over to him?

Oh, Mo Xuanyu was good at turning things back on Wei Wuxian, his grin stayed in place through force of will even though he could feel a blush creep over his nose. He, he’s... he’s a good man. The world would be a whole lot shittier without him in it.

... You are such a dunce, and I'm now genuinely glad that I'm here to keep an eye on you.

Me too!

It also gets us out of Cloud Recesses, which is also what you've been wanting, right?

Of course!  But Wei Wuxian was genuinely happy Mo Xuanyu was with him.

Then let’s get going.

It would take more than a day to travel to Qinghe, since Mo Xuanyu insisted on taking Apple with them. When he said this, his hand immediately pinched his cheek, but he slapped it away with his other.

The sight of the exchange filled Lan Wangji with strange fondness, and he used his sleeve to cover his mouth. Even so, Mo Xuanyu gave him a stink eye, having caught the motion to seemingly hide some laughter.

But Mo Xuanyu’s attention to Lan Wangji’s amusement was superseded by the send off from the Lan Sect’s juniors. They were all there. Watching. Murmuring.

Why… Xuanyu stopped his question even morefore it could fully enter the mental space. Oh shit. They really think we’re fucking .

Didn’t we already know this? Wuxian effected making a shrug. You said that they thought we were fucking like rabbits.

It’s one thing to guess, and another to see it.

Well at least we won’t have to deal with it… Oh! Wuxian ‘tapped’ Mo Xuanyu on the shoulder. Can I switch for a moment?

Despite his trepidation, considering the cheek pinch, Xuanyu still took a mental step back to let Wei Wuxian have control.

He turned to Lan Wangji, tilting his head coquettishly. “Apologies that our honeymoon has to be like this.”

Behind them there was a series of  gasps and small screams before the juniors all forced themselves to be quiet.

Lan Wangji quirked up one eyebrow, both at Wei Wuxian’s comment and the reactions of the juniors.

… You asshole. Even so, there was a growing sense of laughter that warmed Wei Wuxian’s and Mo Xuanyu’s mindspace.

“But it’s like you said, Hanguang-jun. It doesn’t matter what others think, as long as it’s clear between us.” Wei Wuxian replied, far more maturely than he had any right to sound.

Once the sun went down and Apple refused to move a step more, they made camp. Wei Wuxian played Rest with Lan Wangji, before immediately switching back to Mo Xuanyu. Sometimes, like now, Lan Wangji worried that despite some evident progress, Wei Wuxian disliked being around him so frequently, which was why he mostly interacted with Mo Xuanyu. But, was Mo Xuanyu also uncomfortable interacting with him, without knowledge of anyone else close by?

Both thoughts battered like moths around a flame in his head, and he lost focus until he smelled the scent of something burning, and leaned down to look at the pan he had place over the fire with a fish Wei Wuxian caught from a nearby stream. The once tender flesh of the fish was now tough and slightly charred at the edges.

“...”

Lan Wangji took the overcooked fish from the flame, and with all the primness one could hold when consuming their shame, placed it in his bowl and took bite after bite with a placid expression.

Mo Xuanyu confiscated the remaining fish and began to cook, keeping a keen watch on the flame and methodically adding extra spices to the ingredients he gathered. Lan Wangji watched as he cooked, taking mental notes to do better next time.

When he noticed Lan Wangji’s gaze, Mo Xuanyu turned his head and raised an eyebrow at him, questioning.
“... Learning.”

“It’s not gonna be fancy.” Mo Xuanyu replied, before turning back to the fire and shaking the pan. “Just need to arrange how you plan it better.”

Lan Wangji decided not to reveal how he was troubled by his own thoughts. “... Learning planning.”

Mo Xuanyu shook his head, and Lan Wangji could see the hint of a smile with the firelight. He gestured to the pan.

“Gather everything, put your pan onto heat, cut things up, then cook.”

“Mn.” Lan Wangji nodded.

He watched as Mo Xuanyu completed the meal. Was it strange to catch how precise he was with his movements?

After Lan Wangji confessed his obvious watching of events, Mo Xuanyu spoke up. “So… you’re known for being where the chaos is. Do you know how to cook already?”

“...” Lan Wangji considered Mo Xuanyu’s phrasing, but still felt out of his depth in what exactly he was asking. “Are those connected?”

“Being where the chaos is means traveling. Traveling means sometimes not being near a village at nightfall, needing to camp outdoors, and cooking for yourself.” Mo Xuanyu turned to look around their camp, making it clear they were in such a situation right now.

Oh. Explained like that, the timeline of events made sense. “... Can cook. But when traveling, have rations, or wait until next village.”

He was far enough in his cultivation that he could practice inedia, but since his traveling companions could not do so, he decided to join them. Fish, though not his favorite, was something he could eat, and there were times when people he assisted would offer him meals for his service.  “... A family let me stay with them, once. Learned how to make fish stew.”

If they had a pot, Lan Wangji would have tried to recreate the dish.

“Huh…” Mo Xuanyu narrowed his eyes at him, thoughtful. “Hanguang-jun, how often are you actually in Gusu?”

Lan Wangji took some time considering this question. After he had recovered from his injuries, he didn’t actually spend much time in the Cloud Recesses. Though he loved his home, past experiences had made it more constricting for him to remain for long periods of time. “Must come back for lessons, name days, but when not, traveling. Sizhui comes with me, sometimes. Less now, got older, needs to go on his own.”

“Do you actually like it there in Gusu?”

“...” Lan Wangji was quiet for awhile, and Mo Xuanyu waited. Save for the crackle of the fire and Apple’s snores, there was no sound. “... I don’t know.”
“If I could have left Mo Village earlier I would have. But my mother was there, and after a while I wasn’t strong enough to leave.” Mo Xuanyu replied, and Lan Wangji thought this was the first time he has offered such information to him freely, and not as an act of twisted defense.
“ ... Same, but reverse. Wasn’t strong enough to leave for good,” Physically and mentally. “And now... don’t want to leave family.”
Mo Xuanyu shrugged. “Not shameful to have people to live for. You found me after I had failed, well… ”

Failed what? Wasn’t it successful after Wei Wuxian--?

He half raised one arm, allowing the sleeve to fall down and reveal two angry slash marks, faintly scabbing over, but deep enough that they would remain for some time yet. Mo Xuanyu showed his arm to indicate the suicide attempt, rather than say it out loud, especially because he was technically lying. He hadn’t failed at all, even though something went sideways.

“... How do you feel now?” Lan Wangji asked.

Mo Xuanyu shrugged again. “Better food, better sleep, … much better company.”

Hearing it phrased like that filled Lan Wangji with an immense sense of relief. It seemed that his face didn’t change much, but there is more of a shine to his eyes, his lips parted slightly for a quick intake of breath. “... That is good to hear.”

“Especially since you’ve been instrumental in all three of those things?” Mo Xuanyu’s grin teased as much as his voice.
Lan Wangji had to turn away, the shell of his ear a noticeably darker shade than it’s usual paleness. “I…”  

He didn’t finish that reply, at a loss how to respond. He was doing what anyone should do in this situation, he didn’t want to be given undue thankfulness, when it wasn’t necessary. But when Mo Xuanyu said that, he felt his ears heat up.

“You’re blushing.”

“... I am not.”

“If you say so.”

“... We should check on cooking.”

Mo Xuanyu’s grin turned slightly wicked as he went back to the pan. Before Lan Wangji could protest, he took his bowl and flung the remaining fish out to the treeline, then parsed out his meal in two portions. They ate in silence for a little while, until Mo Xuanyu spoke up.

“Say, Hanguang-jun?”

Lan Wangji looked up from his bowl to Mo Xuanyu doing the same. “Mn.”

“Have you lost someone special to you?”

Lan Wangji dropped his utensils into the bowl, making an undignified clink.

Did Wei Wuxian tell him? No, no, he wouldn’t bring that up. Despite his rejection, he would never reveal Lan Wangji’s feelings like that, in some confusing and twisted way. He trusted him to do that, so why this question? It was true that he spent thirteen years living with the knowledge that his special person was lost to him, and possibly beyond that. But now they have returned. In fact, they were probably talking to Mo Xuanyu this very moment.

“... Yes.”

“Thought so,” Mo Xuanyu commented, voice even, almost pleased, like he gotten the right answer when a teacher asked him. “You seemed sad before, like you lost someone, but you’re better now.”

“... Mn…” Lan Wangji. He felt vulnerable. Mo Xuanyu had been looking at him that much, analyzing his expressions? It was odd, to now know just as he snuck glances at him, trying to discern more about him and his soul companion, Mo Xuanyu had been trying to understand him too. “... You… people like you… have made it easier.”

His expression immediately shifted to something more restrained. “... If you say so. I haven’t done much.”

“You taught me a new skill.” Lan Wangji offered. That wasn’t the reason why. He had taught him something new, but he had begun to learn that Mo Xuanyu felt most comfortable accepting compliments when they were framed as him being ‘useful.’ It hurt, when he was starting to think that perhaps Mo Xuanyu was his friend, to view their relationship like that. Lan Wangji didn’t think he ever had a friend before, and he hoped he could be a good one to Mo Xuanyu.

“Refined it, more like, if you’re honest about already knowing how to cook.”

Lan Wangji was determined to return the kindness shown to him. He had made their meals, but didn’t tell them. Maybe now he should be more open. “When we are back in Gusu, I will cook in front of you. Can judge.”

“You’re on.”

On the next night of travel they made it to an inn, where after evening meal they retired to different rooms. Finally alone again… well, alone as they could get. Mo Xuanyu sighed once more, and beelined for the bed and curled on top of it. He could have fallen asleep there and then, but then the voice returned, after complaining that the inn food wasn’t as good as his meal last night.

... Oi, Xuanyu. How are you getting these reactions out of Lan Zhan. I can’t do it anymore.

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes fondly. I’m being honest, and giving him what he wants. Sort of. .... I think he’s been lonely.

That brought a flash of surprise and confusion to Wei Wuxian’s voice. Lonely? He’s always kept himself at a distance from people. I mean... well, I guess I thought that one point myself, but...

There are three reasons for someone to act like he does. They think they’re better than everyone, they’re scared, or they’re sad.

...I thought he was the first, for a bit. Not for long, but Wei Wuxian had thought it.

Whatever he was originally, I think now it’s because he was sad.

But what does he have to be sad about? He’s well-respected, he’s in good health, he’s handsome… do you think that person he lost--?

I dunno. Something about him makes me feel like his wife died.

Wei Wuxian snorted. It was true, but the idea of Lan Wangji being married was far too strange. Unless in the thirteen years I was dead he was able to have a wife, then lose her...

But, thirteen  years is plenty of time for that. The sadness of such a realization hit him with a surprising amount of force. Lan Zhan…

Mo Xuanyu closed his eyes, to better imagine running the back of his hand up and down Wei Wuxian’s arm. A small comfort against the sadness, but there anyway.

Oh, thank you, Xuanyu. But it’s not me who needs the comfort. Wei Wuxian still leaned into the touch. Anyway, he has you now, doesn’t he?

What is that supposed to mean?

Xuanyu, Xuanyu I think he likes you. Wei Wuxian pressed with the grin easily imagined on his face.

Ehhh doubt. But he likes you. I’ve seen how he looks when you’re in control.

When I’m in control he hardly speaks! Honestly, maybe he’s caught on already and is just too nice to say anything . Wei Wuxian replied with a response Mo Xuanyu had pointed out before to defuse the line of thought. Lan Wangji, he didn’t think he had ever hated Wei Wuxian, but did he ever especially like him either? Then again, he could have never imagined Lan Wangji interacting with someone like how he did with Mo Xuanyu, so perhaps, there was a slight chance that his perspective shifted, if only slightly. Or he was simply enchanted with Mo Xuanyu. Which reminded him.

Hey, can you sit in front of the mirror for a minute?  I need to tell you something!

Reluctantly, Mo Xuanyu slid off the bed, and crawled until he sat in front of the long mirror position in one corner. Once there, he took control of their hands.

I just want to give you some compliments! Wei Wuxian waved the hands in the mirror, and began to trace on fingertip along the shells of his ears, then drew them along Mo Xuanyu’s  jawline, his cheeks, before meeting his nose, then going up to his temples. Each time he reached a new point, he complimented the feature.

Mo Xuanyu felt a strange mix of wanting to lean into the touch, but also immediately move away. Echoes of other touches, ones that were far less welcome, tingled along his skin, as if he had hundreds of ants crawling over him.

Are you just saying these things to compliment yourself? Mo Xuanyu attempted to deflect the attention he was getting by the hands.

Wei Wuxian snorted. This is your body originally, is it not? So no, I’m completely serious! When I washed that terrible makeup off, my first thoughts were “Oh, what a nice face!”

A mix of terribly embarrassed, but reluctantly pleased emotions blended in their shared space. Sure you did, as if I wasn’t there with you to hear. And stop touching me… Us, like that.

Why can’t I?

The fragile good feelings froze and shattered. “I don’t like it. I don’t like touch.”

Even if he was getting used to their illusionary exchanges, that didn’t mean he was fine with what Wei Wuxian was purposefully doing. It was safer when the hands weren’t real. The touches they shared soul to soul weren’t as real and bypassed the reaction of his instincts.

The hands immediately dropped, and fell to his side.

Sorry. Then I will focus on other things. Like... I like how you make brushstrokes, I like how you can sew up a tear in our clothes just like that. Though your cooking may leave a bit to be desired in some spices--it’s still delicious!

Is that all you wanted to tell me? Mo Xuanyu asked, grateful that the touching stopped.

No, a few more things. I like how you’re a truly good person. The hands come up again, but instead of touching, they clasped together, holding tight. I’m glad that it was you who called me back, and that you’re still here.

How… how easy was it for Wei Wuxian to say things like that. How strange.

Do you want a return list of what I like about you?

Wei Wuxian laughed. Nope! It would be too difficult to come up with.

Wei Wuxian was, for the most part, at peace with himself, but he didn’t expect anyone else to have an exceptionally long list of his virtues. Yet, the ice thawed, and warmth suffused through their shared thoughts again.

You’re wrong. Mo Xuanyu replied. It’s very easy. I like that you’ve never doubted me, not once, despite giving you every reason to.

… Hahaha, come now, Xuanyu, that’s hardly fair!

Mo Xuanyu’s smile bled through at that response, reflecting back at him from the mirror. Part of him imagined that it was Wei Wuxian smiling back at him.

I also like that you keep showing me all these handsome gentlemen. After that there’s not much there to you. Mo Xuanyu teased.

He was answered with a squawk of outrage, and one of the hands pointing a finger at his reflection. Mark my words, Xuanyu, if I still had my body you would be completely enamored with my handsomeness… well, I was never as good looking as Lan Zhan. Maybe not.

No one is as good-looking as Hanguang-jun.

Excellent point, I concur-- wait.

I’ll be sure to tell him you said so.

N-no! No you will not! We are not revealing my existence for that! This discussion is in the strictest confidence between us two souls!

Says who? You? Mo Xuanyu drawled, looking back up at the mirror to smirk. Be glad I like you.

Hehehehehe.

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes. He reacted so strangely to him saying it, but it wasn’t unwelcome, necessarily.

… Thank you, for not asking.

Hm?

About why I don’t like that sort of touching. It’s… hard.

Wei Wuxian gave off the impression that he was shrugging. It’s fine. If it’s too painful to explain, then you shouldn’t have to.

Mo Xuanyu sighed, closing his eyes again, and creating the phantom sensation that he leaned his head on Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. Still. Thank you.

Thank you, too.

There was a knock on the wall. It sounded tentative, as if the person on the other side, Lan Wangji surely, didn’t know if it would be welcomed.

“Oh.” Mo Xuanyu went over to the wall, and knocked back.

Emboldened, Lan Wangji knocked again, stronger and making a rhythm with it. It was enough for Xuanyu to chuckle as he matched the placement and rhythm that Lan Wangji established.

Hm. A new routine then. Wei Wuxian was content to observe, sure that his idea of matchmaking Xuanyu and Lan Wangji was going to work.

The knocking continued until Lan Wangji decided to wind it down so that he was standing close to the wall. “... Good night.”

“Good night.” Mo Xuanyu knocked on the wall one last time and laid down for the night..

CODA

Wei Wuxian shot up from bed, wide awake. “WAIT-- IS LAN ZHAN A DAD? IS SIZHUI HIS SON? LAN ZHAN, WHY DIDN’T YOU MAKE A PLAYDATE FOR HIM AND A-YUAN?!”

GO THE FUCK TO SLEEP!

“IS MY LITTLE ONE NOT GOOD ENOUGH? HOW DARE YOU!”

WEI WUXIAN, SHUT UP!

Chapter Text

The arm’s direction shifted once they reached a small city in Qinghe. The extended pointer curled back, and the hand balled into a tight fist. It was clear that wherever another part of the body was, it was close.

Wei Wuxian took the lead once they entered the village to gather intel, with Lan Wangji somewhat successfully or at the very least not unsuccessfully leading Apple a little ways off. Wei Wuxian would never admit it, but having the donkey around was useful, at least with carrying a few extra supplies that couldn’t fit in the pouches Mo Xuanyu was continually sewing during their free travel time. Wei Wuxian wouldn’t complain about having a tarp over his head when an unexpected shower hit their camp one night!

Wei Wuxian, stay on task.

I am! Look, I’m going to ask that hawker for information right now!

Judging by the cut of his robes, the hawker was attempting to pass himself off as a cultivator, but his merchandise was quite… eclectic. If Mo Xuanyu was in control, he would have turned his nose up at the scent wafting from the cosmetics. When Wei Wuxian asked about them, the charlatan described them as “cheap and fine.”

Cheap and fine. Mo Xuanyu drawled, unimpressed.  With that aroma, they were certainly cheap, and he was sure that the “fine” was probably how little the rouge or powder would show up on the user’s face. Did you have a point to discuss with this man?

I’m working on it. Wei Wuxian replied.

The charlatan grinned. “Say, who are you looking for? Your wife?”

“Yes, and myself.” Wei Wuxian replied easily.

We are not putting that dung on our face. Mo Xuanyu replied flatly.

Wei Wuxian bit back the desire to click his tongue. Ah, my wife, so picky… I just need to buy something to loosen any information he might have.

With what money?

Just then, the answer of “what money” came to him.

“Han~guang~jun~” Wei Wuxian singsonged, a little skip in his step as he did. Though he didn’t get much of a chance to do so after he and Mo Xuanyu fled Mo Village and with how weak the body was, he now enjoyed the freedom of acting out his enthusiasm. And though he had no longer wanted to flee from Lan Wangji, since that would interfere with his current plans to ensure Mo Xuanyu’s safety, he still wished he could get a reaction similar to when they were disciples. This was only one attempt out of many he tried thus far.

“Mn.” And once more, it had no effect. Lan Wangji looked at him with the same steady gaze as always, at least when he was in control. “Don’t bother others unless you are interested in their goods.”

“But I really want to buy it! Give me some money and I’ll show you.” He raised his hand, eyes closed, and he felt a hefty weight rest on his palm. When he opened, a delicately sewn bag made of pink silk was there.

“There.” Lan Wangji replied calmly.

Wei Wuxian blinked. The bag in and of itself was unexpected, but the weight. Then again, he purchased goods for Mo Xuanyu when they were traveling to Gusu. Perhaps handing over the bag showed another level of trust?

Or, once more, Lan Wangji didn’t realize the cost of things. That was also possible.

Still, he tucked it into his own pocket for safe keeping and walked in step with Lan Wangji. A refined-looking cultivator like him would give him some more leeway with asking questions. When he looked down, he peeked Lan Wangji’s white boots. They were still pristine, despite the days of travel. Was there some sort of “anti-dirt” charm imparted on the Lan Sect disciples?

Walking in step, it was interesting to see how their footprints made different sizes in the dirt. Mo Xuanyu wasn’t that much shorter than Lan Wangji, but their builds were definitely smaller. If he stepped behind Lan Wangji, his bootprint would sink in the middle of his, with no overlap. Would their hands be similar if measured?

His thoughts subsided when he heard the charlatan yell, “The Yiling Patriarch, five coins for one, ten coins for three!”

“Who?!”

Wei Wuxian immediately rushed forward, seeing instead of cosmetics, the hawker was now advertising portraits of the so-called “Yiling Patriarch.”

But they looked nothing like him!

That horrendous, vicious face with the look of a fierce temple statue?!

So, Wuxian, this is what you looked like?

Wei Wuxian inwardly let out an indignant shriek. No! No, I do-did-- I was famed for being good looking! People thought I was wanton and desirable!

You sure sound proud of that…

--I’m not! Just-- he’s--!

Wei Wuxian turned to Lan Wangji for help, before realizing that Lan Wangji would have no reason or think to defend him in this situation.

He then immediately marched over. “What are you doing with such false merchandise?!”

The charlatan had the nerve to roll his eyes at him! “You, again? Please, if you don’t intend to buy anything, stop coming back.”

“I deserve an answer for this!” Wei Wuxian lifted one of the portraits. “That is some nerve, compiling a fake like this and claiming it as a visage of Wei Wuxian. If you haven’t seen the actual person, don’t draw it and claim that it is them!”

The charlatan waved his hand derisively. “Bah, who knows what he looks like? He’s dead. However, these portraits are guaranteed to ward off any evil spirits that cause illness, fatigue--”

“They’ll ward off any good spirits too!”

There was a small snicker in the back of his head. You are protesting quite a bit, Wuxian.

I will not let this defamation of my character stand!

Usually, Wei Wuxian honestly wouldn’t mind things like this. He was used to being made a villain, but a laughingstock? He drew the line, especially when these things were the first depictions of him that Mo Xuanyu saw. They made him sound like a liar about his looks when he was actually quite handsome!

His tirade was broken when Mo Xuanyu took control of their legs and nearly jumped to the side, barely missing the gust of wind from an attack that strew the stack of portraits across the ground, and sent the charlatan crashing into another stand.

Wei Wuxian turned around to find none other than Jin Ling, stalking forward, with all the ferocity an average-sized rich young lord could muster, stomping on a portrait and shoving it into the mud with each step. The small metal tassels on the ends of his ribbon tinkled, which negated much of the threatening power her had. However, he was still sumptuously dressed, the white peony embroidered on the chest of his robes a sure sign of his status.  

“Why… did you kick me?” The charlatan could barely muster to ask, while Jin Ling loomed over him with his hands on his hips.

“Anyone who dares mention the name “Wei Wuxian” in my presence should kneel in gratitude if I don’t--”

“Jin Ling!” Both Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu called out.

Jin Ling went rigid and turned back to look at them. The confidence in his stance immediately faltered. He looked a little lost before the bravado returned. “Oh, you’re here.”

“Yes, I am. Why are you attacking harmless frauds in broad daylight?”

“F-fraud-?!”

“Hush.” Wei Wuxian lifted his palm at the charlatan. “This is family business.”

That response made Jin Ling clench his fists. He waited up so late to see Mo Xuanyu return to Buddha’s Feet, but when he woke up the next morning, he was already gone!

This sham: going on about family when he hadn’t even said goodbye before leaving his life without a word. Again.

Well, he would show him!

“...” Jin Ling glared, before letting out a short whistle.

The sound of panting and heavy footsteps thundering across the ground. Wei Wuxian turned back, and what he saw struck fear in his heart.

A huge, waist-height, black-haired spiritual dog with a natural “collar” of thick fur was running straight for him.

“L-Lan Zhan--” Wei Wuxian whimpered, feeling like a child in the alley, fighting over scraps with no one to help him.  Before it got too close, Wei Wuxian felt a hand pull him back, and suddenly Mo Xuanyu was in control, bringing his fingers to his mouth and sounding off two quick whistles.

The beast ceased its charge, looking up at Mo Xuanyu with a head tilt of confusion… and then, its tail began to wag.

“Fairy, sit.” Mo Xuanyu made a hand gesture as he issued the command.

The beast, now revealed to be Fairy (though Wei Wuxian didn’t realize this immediately, huddled in terror on the other side of their mind), followed the order, panting happily.

Mo Xuanyu kneeled down and began to give her a vigorous petting, his voice reaching a completely new octave as he talked to her. “Who’s a good girl? Who loves a good girl?”

Fairy’s entire body wiggled in happiness. She gave a small bark. As if to say, “Me! I’m the good girl!”

“That’s right! Uncle Xuanyu loves a fluffy girl who’s gotten so big and mighty! Who’s gonna kill all the corpses? You are!”

LAN ZHAN, SAVE MEEEEE--!!!

Lan Wangji, however, was currently having difficulty trying to calm Apple down after hearing Fairy’s entrance. He couldn’t reach into his his sleeve for emergency food either. He had no way to assist. Though he was worried about Wei Wuxian, when he turned to look ahead, he let out a small gasp. “...!”

Mo Xuanyu was, indeed, full of surprises.

Jin Ling, on the other hand, was getting angrier. Which in reality meant he was growing more upset and took off. If his uncle was happier to see Fairy instead of him, well, fine! He would scout ahead without her.

“Jin Ling, she’s really grown! You used to be able to carry her in your arms and now you could-!”

But Mo Xuanyu turned around to find Jin Ling gone, and that brought him back to reality, with Wei Wuxian’s yelling echoing distantly, like he had climbed up a tree in their joint consciousness to try and escape.

Xuanyu, Xuanyu send it away please, please I beg you…!

Mo Xuanyu, somewhat reluctantly, since Fairy was indeed quite soft and he hadn’t seen her since she was still a puppy, got to his feet. “Good girl. Okay. Find Jin Ling.”

With one last wag of her tail, Fairy ran off to search for her master.

Mo Xuanyu looked after her, then turned and met Lan Wangji’s eyes, looking at him. Apple, with Fairy’s absence, had finally calmed down.

“...” Lan Wangji blinked, then walked forward as the charlatan got to his feet and cleared his throat behind Mo Xuanyu.

“M-my, Young Master! Such a way with animals!”

Waaahhhh…

Mo Xuanyu turned back just as Lan Wangji and Apple arrived, tripling the level of menace conveyed to the charlatan.

“I can call her back, if you like,” Mo Xuanyu replied with a polite, vicious smile. The kind of smile that perfectly matched the kind of threat he gave. “But I’m sure you’d rather talk to us than deal with a spiritual dog.”

He inwardly, however, turned to Wei Wuxian with concern. Are you alright?

Don’t make it come back…

That is a ‘no I’m not’. I won’t call Fairy back here, I promise. Mo Xuanyu tried for the impression of a rough hug while working on intimidating the charlatan for information. He had no kindness towards frauds or scammers.

Wei Wuxian leaned into the ‘embrace.’ ... Alright. I’ll take your word for it.

The next several minutes the charlatan explained the local phenomena of the Xinglu Ridge, a place infamous for a ‘man-eating’ castle. A place where very few have ever returned, and the kind of spot that sounded perfect the body of a ghost arm to dwell.

Hm, surprising that the Nie Sect hadn’t paid any mind to investigate. This is their territory.

Mo Xuanyu asked why the Nie Sect had not been notified. The charlatan then went into a tangent about the “head shaker,” and his worthlessness as the new Sect Leader. Mo Xuanyu interrupted him mid-way. Nothing useful was being discussed. In fact, Mo Xuanyu knew for a fact that everything said about Nie Huaisang was an outright lie.

When they got what information they could, Mo Xuanyu bought two compacts of rouge and tucked them into his sleeve.

“Shall we go, Hanguang-jun?”

Lan Wangji nodded, walking back in step.

When they had walked ahead of those stalls, he handed the pouch back over to Lan Wangji.

But the strange man shook his head. “Not necessary.”

“Yes, it is. You have more pockets in your robes, you hold onto this.” Mo Xuanyu held it up,

Lan Wangji shook his head. “No, pay for the rest of the day.”

“...” Mo Xuanyu sighed. “If you say so.”

Wei Wuxian seemed to have returned to his usual self, and was less worried about the money and more the information provided. Awwh, no gossip?

It wouldn’t be correct anyway. Mo Xuanyu replied.

But all gossip holds a grain of truth.

Not with him. Mo Xuanyu’s words were as blunt as a hammer forging a sword.

Which made Wei Wuxian all the more curious.

… Xuanyu. Do you know Nie Huaisang?

Yes. Granted, only met him once. But it was enough. Enough to know he was nothing like what the charlatan believed him to be.

Huhhh. Wei Wuxian didn’t like that tone. Mo Xuanyu was direct with his words like this when he was trying to hide something. Something important to know, especially in his past. He wouldn’t assume Niew Huaisang was a ‘Lord Mo,’ but things could change in thirteen years. Should I beat him up for you?

No. Mo Xuanyu replied. There was no panic or urgency, but clear intent. Sect Leader Nie and I need to talk, anyways.

… Okay.

Wei Wuxian wouldn’t press further. For now.

Lan Wangji and Mo Xuanyu began to discuss a plan for investigating Xinglu Ridge, but to find a stable for Apple first. It wouldn’t make sense to bring the donkey into a fight, despite how lucky he was. During this, however, Lan Wangji asked an unexpected question.

“Do you like cosmetics?”

The question gave Mo Xuanyu pause. “Well... sort of? I know what to do with it, but…” he crossed his arm. “Well, mostly it reminds me of my mother. That's why I’ve put it on from time to time.” Though it was different back on that one day, with the ghoulish makeup, as that was intended for a specific effect.

“Because your mother wore it?” Lan Wangji considered the point for a long moment. “I don’t have anything of my mother’s. It was all taken away.”

Mo Xuanyu made an aborted motion to reach out and touch Lan Wangji’s sleeve, but he was just out of reach, and then he lowered it again.

It had to be a point of pain for him, he thought. “I couldn’t save her make up box. My cousin had the servant destroy it. Besides, I don’t need the makeup anyway. Who would I wear it for?”

There was a phantom hand in his own, squeezing his fingers in gentle comfort.

Lan Wangji frowned at the response. Mo Xuanyu seemed upset. He wanted to reassure him. “... Why wear it for others? If it pleases you, wear it for yourself. Even if it is only in your mother’s memory, if it brings you peace…”

But then he paused. He had never worn makeup, and what he was saying could be wrong, or improper.

Yet, Mo Xuanyu nodded in agreement. “That's what makeup is for. To create a face, be it as ghoulish as a hanging ghost or as pretty as a classical beauty.”

He closed his eyes, remembering a time he wore makeup just for the joy of it, to watch it change and accentuate the features he liked best about his appearance before those looks seemed to be an invitation for ridicule. Yet, Lan Wangji asked… he wouldn’t judge him. Not for that, at least. “But... khol might be nice…”

“Khol?” Lan Wangji tilted his head.

“It’s for the eyes.” Mo Xuanyu smiled, feeling a small bout of satisfaction that he could teach Lan Wangji something again. “I’ve been told in the past they’re my best feature, given how distinctive they are.”

Indeed, your eyes are quite the shocking color! Like pieces of the moon shining on a clear winter night.

Mo Xuanyu felt his face heat up. Hush you…

But before he could duck down, a pair of light-colored eyes leaned down and bore into his. “... En. They’re nice.”

Mo Xuanyu immediately turned his head away. “Thank you.”

His voice was terse because he had no idea what the hell to do with a direct complement like that. He decided to tease Wei Wuxian to get his mind off of it. … I do hope you mean ‘shocking’ in a nice way.

I do, I do! Wei Wuxian assured. They’re kind of like Lan Zhan’s in that way: very clear and bright, and when you first see them up close, they’re a pleasant surprise. My eyes were nothing special.

That didn’t help at all! In fact, Mo Xuanyu felt his face heat up even more!

Well, now you have mine to make up for things.

Hurray! Now I, too, am among the beautiful people. Wei Wuxian replied with a teasing lilt.

Given that charlatan’s artwork…

But Wei Wuxian’s screech interrupted Mo Xuanyu’s response. I do not look like that! Get me a scrap of paper and some ink, and I’ll draw my true likeness!

Lan Wangji was worried that Mo Xuanyu kept his head down as they continued to walk. “Was that out of turn?”

“... You’re an intense guy, Hanguang-jun. That’s all.” Mo Xuanyu replied, reaching out to curl his fingers into Apple’s mane to center himself. “Makes me think about how you’ll be unable to get rid of me if you stare like that too long.”

Lan Wangji’s frown deepened. He doesn’t want ‘to get rid of’ Mo Xuanyu. Why did the other man keep talking like that, when he thought they were becoming friends? “... Nonsense.”

A small pool of ice gathered in Mo Xaunyu’s gut. Was Lan Wangji upset? About what?

When the man wouldn’t look at him, Mo Xuanyu jostled his shoulder, just a little, using the tips of his fingers. “Don’t be mad.”

It was only a moment before he started to draw his hand back, but Lan Wangji looked back at him and raised his other hand to gently press two of his fingertips against Mo Xuanyu’s. “Not mad… promise.”

… Oh, so that’s the difference. Wei Wuxian said, but Mo Xuanyu didn’t ask or really care what he meant at that moment.

Then, as soon as it occurred, Lan Wangji withdrew his hand. Both of them felt the warmth from the points that touched remain.

Mo Xuanyu had a sideways smile, meant for both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian. Somehow, they both felt it, if in different ways.

Apple made a derisive snort, trotting up so he was firmly between them. Mo Xuanyu pet him.

Only a minute of silence passed before Lan Wangji brought up another topic.

“... You like animals.”

“They like me, most of the time.”

“… Favorite animal?”

Mo Xuanyu gave Lan Wangji a long look, not quite understanding why they were back on this topic again. He’d explained why he liked animals back at Cloud Recesses. Certainly, the man wouldn’t need a reminder so soon. “Why?”

“Interested in knowing.” The small shrug Lan Wangji made with the statement felt like too big a gesture of him. As if he was trying to be more casual than he felt.

“Cats. Affectionate, and they’ll let you know right away if you do something they don’t like. You?”

“Rabbits.”

“I should have known.” Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes, though his tone was kind. “Then let me ask a question: why did you allow me to come along on this investigation?”

Lan Wangji’s initial response was quick. “Cannot soothe the arm alone. Both of us need to perform Rest.”

A repetition of Wei Wuxian’s reasons, before they left. Which were true, but there was more. The inner, selfish part of him still wanted to keep Wei Wuxian close. Even though together, Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian would be fine. They had one another, and they were both smart and clever enough to get by, but…

“... And wish to learn more about you.” He could give a half-truth.

“If you say so.”

“Mn.”

But, Mo Xuanyu wasn’t convinced. Who actually ever wanted to learn more about him? Wei Wuxian did, but that was all about survival. Lan Wangji was simply the same.

Wei Wuxian, meanwhile, was giggling. My, Lan Zhan has turned into quite the gentleman. I mean, I suppose he was, but this is the most I have ever heard him inquire about someone else.

As always, Mo Xuanyu would have to explain.  ...I think he knows that you're around. Why else be this accepting and accommodating? Even if he wants to lock you up, he’s too conciliatory.

That’s impossible. Wei Wuxian replied firmly. I’ve given nothing away about my actual identity. How would he know half the time we interact it’s me instead of you?  And he was never like this to me! Mo Xuanyu, I think it’s just... you. I think he likes you and is trying his best to show it.

Mo Xuanyu, with the air of not being convinced but not wanting to argue about it, responded. If you say so.

After leaving Apple at a nearby stable, the investigation team ventured into the forest along Xinglu Ridge. Since the charlatan’s words were given through coercion, it was more to check if something useful could be found. They didn’t expect to find a ‘man-eating castle’ of any sort. They certainly couldn’t risk taking the arm out either to check.

They were on the forest trail for nearly an hour when a pack of low-level walking corpses shuffled into view. Mo Xuanyu smelled the rot before he even saw them.

Oi, Wuxian…

But as soon as they saw Mo Xuanyu, the corpses paused, then immediately began shuffling in the opposite direction.

“...”

Both Mo Xuanyu and Lan Wangji were at a loss for words.

Verbally, at least. Mo Xuanyu turned to Wei Wuxian again. Why did… don’t those things attack no matter what? You won’t die, obviously, and they’re weak enough for even non-cultivators to beat but…

They must be scared of you now at your current skill level. Congratulations!

… Or, they could sense you. I still remember what happened at Mo Village.

Ah, but I was in control then, and you are now. Compare the difference between now and the graveyard. Obvious improvement.

… Mo Xuanyu blushed and looked to the side, feeling Wei Wuxian’s satisfaction radiating their shared space.

“...” Lan Wangji looked at Mo Xuanyu, and suddenly felt that he missed something, but wasn’t sure how to express it.

Finally, Mo Xuanyu replied. “Something strange is here. Do you feel it?"

“Yes.” Both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian responded.

There is something in the air, here, much more oppressive than those weaklings. And- o-oh no…!

Barking could be heard in the distance.

“It is Jin Ling’s spiritual dog.” Lan Wangji replied.

Chapter Text

There was a very specific timber to Fairy’s barks, low with a hint of a growl. It was her defensive sound. She only made it when something threatening was near, or was actively defending her master.

“Fairy!” Mo Xuanyu ran forward, calling for the dog and heading right into the space where the strange feeling lingered.

Sorry, but we’re going to have to get close. He said to Wei Wuxian as he ran.

I- If Jin Ling is in trouble, th-th-then we must.

Though Mo Xuanyu’s burst into running was impulsive, Lan Wangji easily kept up with him. His longer strides easily closed the distance made between Mo Xuanyu’s impulse and the time it took for him to realize what the other man was doing. “Don’t separate.”

“If Jin Ling’s in trouble…” Mo Xuanyu shook his head and forced his legs to move faster, as if he could physically break out of the spiritual pressure that surrounded them. “Sorry, but you’ll just have to keep up. Fairy! Fairy!”

Fairy’s barks ebbed in and out of range. Minutes passed, with no change in the scenery. Mo Xuanyu was growing more and more desperate, but even in his desperation, he could recognize the signs of a common cultivation trap.

Maze Array. Dammit, dammit!

Wei Wuxian emerged from his cowering, speaking up. Wait. Xuanyu, do you know the formation for a spirit attraction flag?

What does that have to do with anything?! Jin Ling could be-!

Do you know it? Wei Wuxian’s voice turned direct, commanding. It centered Mo Xuanyu’s thoughts, if only slightly.

Of course!

Make a spirit attraction flag, but change the last few characters to this. An image flashed across his thoughts. Hurry.

Mo Xuanyu reached up his sleeve for talisman paper. Once found, he bit the back of his pointer finger until it bled, quickly drawing up the image, then blowing it dry. However, this only sent it flying forwards. However, there was no wind in the area. It flew on its own, floating on lines of resentful energy.. Instead of attracting the spirit, the talisman would search for the largest source of resentful energies in the area.

“Follow the talisman!” Mo Xuanyu ordered Lan Wangji, before once more picking up the pace.

Xuanyu, you can’t just--!

“En.” Lan Wangji followed without a derisive movement or sound.

… Xuanyu, your potential is truly magnificent… Wei Wuxian mumbled, then flinched when Fairy’s barking got closer.

I’ll stay in control the entire time. Mo Xuanyu reassured. And I’ll make it as short as possible, I promise.

All right, okay, that’s okay… His replies almost sound like a chant, trying to keep himself from escaping the lull of subconsciousness.

Following the talisman rather than Fairy’s barking gave them the edge needed to get out of the Maze Array. The noise would fade and strengthen, helping the maze array cause confusion, but the talisman held steady. When they broke through the array, Fairy was right there. She grabbed Mo Xuanyu’s sleeve and pulled on his arm.

“Drop it.” It was counter to everything that he wanted to do, but Mo Xuanyu stood still to wait for Fairy to let go of his sleeve. “You know better and I can run faster without you pulling me.”  

In front of them, a castle structure appeared when they broke the Maze Array. Both the talisman and Fairy lead Mo Xuanyu, Wei Wuxian, and Lan Wangji to it, and the hole burst into one wall.

Without going inside, Xuanyu tried to see what was inside, but, “Fuck it’s dark in here…”

Without saying a word, Lan Wangji stepped inside and unsheathed Bichen, his sword, two inches, just enough so that the bright glow of the sword could breech the darkness. Mo Xuanyu followed just after him, with Fairy walking behind.

Except that she seemed to walk into an invisible wall. With a whimper and a bark that made Wei Wuxian keen in fear, she tried again, and a third time.

S-s-something must be preventing her from getting in. Wei Wuxian’s voice seemed to come from up high, like he had found another tree to run up in their mental space, as if that would get him even more physically away from the dog. At the same time, the realization that she would stay outside of the castle had relief sweeping through Wei Wuxian that Mo Xuanyu could feel like the sun on a spring day. We’ll have to go on without her.

Mo Xuanyu took a moment to go back to the dog and point at the ground before the hole. “Guard.”

It seemed like Fairy nodded as she sat at the hole, ears up and alert.

“Good girl.”

Mo Xuanyu went back to where Lan Wangji was waiting for them, and together they continued further inside.

The hall was made of long stone panels, and made the hall seem smaller on the inside than it should have been looking at the castle from outside. There was also a low murmur of voices. With each step they took, the voices grew louder and louder.

The talisman burned to ashes with the amount of resentful energy in the air.

Xuanyu nearly collapsed to his knees. Loud, the voices were too loud. Even covering his ears with his hands didn’t drown it out. A whole crowd was shouting, and shouting so hard and so loud, it was a wonder that the castle hadn’t fallen down upon their heads from the force of it.

You hear it too. Said Wei Wuxian, sounding like he was in the same pain as Mo Xuanyu.

After a few steps, Lanwangji realized that he didn’t have his companion. He turned around, eyes widening.  His long strides to Mo Xuanyu’s side seemed unhurried, but his face took on a stone like aspect to mask away his worry as he said, “What is wrong?”

“It’s…” Mo Xuanyu tried to put words together, but it was like the spectral noises were blocking out every thought he tried to make. “Loud. Too loud. People are shouting? You can’t hear it?”

Was it telling that Mo Xuanyu was more worried about Lan Wangji not hearing the same thing? Maybe he really was going crazy.

“I don’t.” Even so, Lan Wangji looked more suspiciously at the walls, as if he could glare them into giving up their secrets.

Maybe the charlatan was onto something with his man-eating castle story. But I can’t… Wei Wuxian’s felt close by, as if standing back to back with Mo Xuanyu. I can’t hear Jin Ling, so that must be a good thing, right?

“I don’t know I don’t know I can’t- It’s hard to--” Mo Xuanyu slid completely to his knees, hands tightening their grip over his ears. It didn’t cut the sound, but he desperately wished it did.

“Take my sleeve.” Sandalwood, white, a deep voice supporting them. “We have to keep going. Jin Ling could be in danger, but until we find out where we have to keep going.”

Mo Xuanyu grabbed the sleeve, making sure only to touch the cloth, and not brush any skin underneath. He struggles to his feet, and they keep moving while he tries to focus on Jin Ling being in danger and getting him out of danger to push the cacophony around them.

They pass through tunnels, further and further into the darkness, only guided by Bichen’s gleam. Eventually, they reach a coffin.

Mo Xuanyu didn’t want to, but felt an overpowering presence come from it. It filled him with dread. With a small struggle, he edged the top of the coffin back, far enough that he can see what was inside… but there was no body.

There is only a sword. Nothing else.

Lan Wangji unwrapped the cloth fastenings around his guqin, gesturing to Mo Xuanyu to make space. With surprising ease, he moved the coffin seal back, providing a solid enough base to rest the instrument, and began to play, calling out to the dense amount of wayward souls in this strange place, hoping he could find answers.

‘A boy was here. The nephew of the man beside me. Where is he?’

That’s Inquiry , Wei Wuxian said, dealing better with the cacophony of spiritual voices than Mo Xuanyu was. He’s trying to communicate with one of the spirits?

“The spirit answers through the guqin right?” Mo Xuanyu spoke out loud, unwilling and unable to reply in thought with the rest of the voices there.

“En.”

Wei Wuxian affected the feeling of putting his hands on Mo Xuanyu’s shoulders, holding him steady while he explained what he knew of how Inquiry worked. It helped to settle Xuanyu, show that there was a solution to the problem before them, and somewhat drowned out the other voices by being distinct and steady, rather than a mish mash of spectral noise.

The guqin sounded two clear notes.

Lan Wangji played a reply, his eyebrows coming together in a frown.

“What was said? Where’s Jin Ling?”

“He says he doesn’t know.” Lan Wangji played a few more sentences and stood up, holding his instrument in one arm, the other holding ready over the strings. “Go where I tell you to.”

He gave Mo Xuanyu step by step instructions. Forward, forward, right, forward, turn, forward. It had him standing in front of a wall. For a moment Mo Xuanyu wanted to snarl, the spirit didn’t know anything about how living architecture worked. But then the thought hit him, could it…?

“Hanguang-jun, your sword? Can it…?” his words trailed off, not wanting to hope that Lan Wangji would be willing to use his famed sword for something as mundane as tearing apart rock, or if it would be strong enough to do that.

“En.” Bichen soared through the air and turned solid stone into so much rubble within a few seconds. Beneath the stone was bricks and packed in dirt, which both men pulled down and dug through as fast as they could. Under a layer was Jin Ling.

“Jin Ling? Jin Ling!” Mo Xuanyu immediately took his nephew’s hand to pull him the rest of the way out, only to see another arm holding onto him. Skeletal, with no more flesh or cloth to distinguish its identity. Another fell out, then another, until a pile of skeletons tumbled out of the wall and onto the floor, their posture gruesomely looking like they were reaching out for Jin Ling. Mo Xuanyu pulled him back, bringing him to the middle of the hall to lean against him. “Hey, hey… c’mon, kid…”

Check his pulse, see if it’s even and his lungs are clear. Wei Wuxian’s words were direct and exact, trying to remain clear-headed.

Suddenly, Jin Ling began to cough and wheeze, signalling that his body was already doing some of the necessary work.

“Oh thank the heavens.” Mo Xuanyu said, quickly doing as Wei Wuxian recommended.

Lan Wangji looked from the bone pile to Mo Xuanyu attending to Jin Ling. The boy had been able to contact him through Inquiry, which meant his spirit was barely tethered to his body. If they hadn’t been here sooner…

Suddenly, Jin Ling’s eyes opened, only they didn’t look all the way there. He rose back up, and started to walk over the bones to return to the wall.

“No, no, no, no walls for you, young man.” Mo Xuanyu caught him by his arm and guided him back out. Jin Ling’s eyes were closed once more.  
The ominous voices within the castle hall were broken by Fairy’s barking from outside. An alarm.

Lan Wangji returned his guqin to the proper place on his back, then turned back to Mo Xuanyu. “Can you carry him?”

It was a simple question. If not, Lan Wangji would.

“Yes. Yes, I can.” Mo Xuanyu crouched down and slung Jin Ling up on his back, bending slightly so he wouldn’t slide off. If you can hear me through everyone else, we’re going to have to go near Fairy again.

I-I know, I know… just ignore any screaming from me for now.

They rushed back to the sound, Lan Wangji taking point, with Bichen still drawn in full illuminating the way.

Whatever had happened was done with when they got there, as Fairy was sitting at the hole blown in the wall and cheerfully dropped a scrap of cloth at Mo Xuanyu’s feet before nosing at Jin Ling’s boot with a whine. The scrap was a dark grey, trimmed with a dark yellow. Mo Xuanyu didn’t need to touch it to know the quality. More than that, he could picture the sleeve that it had once belonged on.

“I recognize the colors.” Lan Wangji said, his grip on Bichen tightening.

Xuanyu that’s-

“Qinghe Nie sect.” Xuanyu finished Wei Wuxian’s sentence out loud. “Hanguang-jun, I’ll take Jin Ling back to the village. Fairy can help with finding who she attacked.”

Lan Wangji’s face didn’t seem to change, but the sense of objection rolled off of him. Even so, he didn’t argue with the plan of action “Be careful going back.”

Mo Xuanyu nodded and turned to Fairy. “Hunt.” The dog licked Mo Xuanyu’s hand before she raced off, leading the way with Lan Wangji behind her.

Once they were out of sight, Mo Xuanyu sighed and started the trek to the village. Okay, Wuxian are you doing okay?

I want to burn our hand off. Otherwise, fine.

Please don’t do that, I happen to like having two hands.

Okay, okay. Both Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu let the steadiness of the walk calm both of them down. Even with the weight of Jin Ling on his back making Mo Xuanyu feel short of breath on top of the physical exertion, it was still calming. He could feel Jin Ling’s chest expand against his back with every breath, and each was stronger and more steady than the last.

I’m okay now, Wei Wuxian said. Are you okay?

No I’m not fucking okay! Mo Xuanyu kicked at a rock on the path. A-Ling is still unconscious and I have a fucking headache from all the dead people shouting at us back there!

Hey, Jin Ling is breathing fine, and the headache will pass as we get further from the castle. Let me take over now I can handle it without the- the- that. You can rest.

Wei Wuxian reached out to put a spectral hand on Mo Xuanyu’s head. It was meant to be a gentle gesture, caring. Mo Xuanyu flinched hard enough that he pulled away physically from a hand that wasn’t actually there. There was just too much touch. Jin Ling was okay, but he was still a solid weight of pressure against Mo Xuanyu’s skin. Anything else, even that not-truly-there touches of Wei Wuxian, was too much. He took a breath before piecing together a reply. No, we don’t know when Fairy and Hanguang-jun will be back. It’ll be easier on you. And… and I want to talk to Jin Ling.

Understanding peppered with guilt colored Wei Wuxian’s thoughts. Fine. I’ll be here. Don’t let him run his mouth, this time? I know he’s your nephew and just a kid, but it’s still… infuriating. He shouldn’t talk to you like that.

Kid always runs his mouth. One of his charms. Mo Xuanyu tried to grin, but it came off as more of grimace when he re-hefted Jin Ling’s body to make sure his hold is more secure.

Hmmph.

Mo Xuanyu decided not to add that Wei Wuxian could also run his mouth. When they are nearly back to the village, Mo Xuanyu felt some squirming on his back.

“What... ?” Jin Ling’s eyes flutter open, and was immediately confused. Someone… was carrying him? But he’s only ever dreamed that. Then he sees the familiar bun, and the frayed red ribbon tying it, and he froze.

“Hey, Jin Ling,” Mo Xuanyu replied. “Don’t move. We’re almost back, and we-- I need to give you a look over.”

“I-I can walk! Where’s Fairy?! Why are you here?!” Jin Ling felt his face redden in the shame of it. He was supposed to prove himself to his maternal uncle, but it wasn’t working! And his youngest uncle kept getting involved when he did not want him to, at all! His voice turned quieter, but more vicious in tone. “... I thought you left with Hanguang-jun.”

“You were just in a wall next to I don't know how many corpses. I don't care if you think you can walk.” Mo Xuanyu sighed. “I did. He and Fairy are tracking someone who may have something to do with what happened to you. Won't know until they came back.”

“... Oh,” Jin Ling said, his voice sounding even, but he felt his skin crawl, remembering bits and pieces of the castle. It pained him to admit it, but… maybe he could learn more if he shared information. “I don’t remember much, after we got through the maze array. Just flashes. But… it felt gross, like I was supposed to be there. It freaked me out.”

Jin Ling went quiet, trying to piece things back together, but everything was still murky, save for… some things. A voice calling his name. “You came to find me?”

“Of course I fucking came to find you. ” Mo Xuanyu replied roughly. “Damnit, Jin Ling, what were you doing out there on your own? You could have died--”

“Fuck off!” Jin Ling yelled, anger rising up quickly to his defense. “I can handle myself just fine! I have to prove myself, to accomplish something to get any respect! It’s not your place to care, not when you didn’t even tell me where you were!”

Mo Xuanyu stopped walking. Wei Wuxian was silent.

Jin Ling, after realizing what he said, thought that he would drop him, then and there.   

“Jin Ling…” He took time to try and think of his response. What he could say, what he couldn’t say, especially with Wei Wuxian in the same mental space. He took another deep exhale. “... I was thrown out of the Lanling Jin Sect. I was there on your uncle’s pleasure and… I fucked up. I know that you can handle yourself, but that doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone.

Jin Ling burrowed his face between Mo Xuanyu’s shoulder blades, torn between too many emotions to express them. “Shut up…”

“Sorry,” Mo Xuanyu’s expression and tone shifted to something lighter as he continued walking. “No can do, you're my captive until I can make sure you're okay.”

“Stupid Uncle…”

“You bet.”

Mo Xuanyu ignored the stares that had followed him as he bought a room for the night. Two dirty young men and no apparent reason for them to be that dirty? They had to be up to something. But money was money, and the inn’s owner was willing to give them a room that had a bed and a small table with a couple chairs. Xuanyu dropped Jin Ling onto the bed.

“Get undressed. I need to see if there’s bruises or worse.” Mo Xuanyu said, no nonsense despite the joking from earlier.

“I’m fine.”

He’s not. Make him take off his boots. Wei Wuxian seemed to sense something that Xuanyu couldn’t. And Mo Xuanyu was more than willing to trust his wariness.

“Boots off. Now.”

Jin Ling grumbled but finally did as he was bid, only to swallow his tongue when he saw the huge black mark that wrapped around his ankle and went up beyond the hem of his trousers. “Wh-what is that?!”

Mo Xuanyu lifted Jin Ling’s left foot, holding it carefully. “It looks like a curse mark.” Though it was an answer to Jin Ling’s question, Mo Xuanyu was more talking to Wei Wuxian.

Correct. Something nasty must have latched onto him back there.

“Trousers off.”

“Look away when I do!” Said Jin Ling, red in the face.

And goodness he’s acting like a little mistress right now.

Mo Xuanyu barely heard him with the ice that formed in their mental space. What did Jin Ling think Mo Xuanyu was going to do? He couldn’t actually believe--

“Fine.”  He turned around and tried to keep his hands loose.

Xuanyu. Xuanyu he’s just embarrassed. He’s what? Fifteen? And he doesn’t seem like the type to have a lot of friends. Isn’t used to being unclothed in front of others, even family.

I’m… fine. I’m fine.

Behind them, Jin Ling started to swear. He had pulled down his trousers only to find that the black curse mark had climbed up his calf and thigh. “Shit, there’s more of it!”

“How high does it go?” Xuanyu didn’t turn around.

“Shit, shit, shit, shit,” Jin ling balled his fists into the cloth of his clothing. “I can’t do anything right!”

“Jin Ling. Answer the question, how high does it go?”

“Up my whole left leg! But- but it doesn’t go further.”

You’re not fine. Wei Wuxian said, uncharacteristically serious. But that’s for later.

What can we do?

We could wait for the thing to come, but without Lan Zhan, that might not go well. But if we transfer it to us, it would give us more time before it spreads.

“Fuck… I’ll kill it when it comes to find me!”

“No.” Jin Ling’s proclamation brought Mo Xuanyu out of his consultation with Wei Wuxian. “No. I’m going to transfer the curse to me. It will buy us time while we wait for Hanguang-jun to help fight it. If you want your sword to be the one the deer dies on, I’m sure he’ll give you that. Until then, we need to be smart. Your life is worth far more than mine.”

Jin Ling gave Mo Xuanyu a look that was better for glaring at dog shit on his boots. “Shut up you shitty uncle! It’s my fault that I have this thing so I’ll be the one that handles it. You’re happy right now with Hanguang-jun, aren’t you? Don’t throw your happiness away!”

“What happiness?”

The return question hung in the air, freezing all of them, even Wei Wuxian, in place.

Mo Xuanyu let down all his guards for a brief moment in front of Jin Ling,, letting the icy wind howl through his face before he shook it off. “You’re the heir of the Lanling Jin clan, and related to the leader of the Yunmeng Jiang clan. I’m the disgraced bastard with no honor, and no shame. Let me help you like I haven’t been able to in the past, with direct action.”

Jin Ling gave a vulnerable look for a vulnerable look, and just as quickly it was masked, though not as completely as his uncle was able to hide away. “... Have it your way, then.”

“Thank you. Now sit down and let shitty uncle do his work.” Mo Xuanyu sat and took Jin Ling’s ankle in hand again. What do we need to do to transfer the curse mark?

Just touch it, like you are now, and focus all your energy towards your own ankle , said Wei Wuxian, his voice even-toned, though he wanted to hug Mo Xuanyu tight and never let him go. We want it at the ankle, otherwise we’ll have less time before the spirit comes to collect.

Mo Xuanyu did as he was instructed. In his concentration he blocked out everything else. All that mattered was moving the curse mark away from his nephew, to where it could do less damage. He ignored the way that his eyes started to burn. The color of his eyes changed, going from tarnished silver to a deep bloody red.

Jin Ling noticed though, even as he forced himself to stay still while his youngest uncle used Demonic Cultivation to save him.

Chapter Text

The color of Mo Xuanyu’s eyes, normally so pale, had taken on the color of fresh blood landing on snow. They glowed ever brighter in the room’s dimming light. The area around him seemed to crackle as if it would only take a single spark to light the space into flames. Jin Ling could be forgiven for being wary of voicing a word, but he forged a question anyway.

“How did you escape the deity-binding net?” That had bothered him since Dafan Mountain. Even now, Mo Xuanyu carried no weapons. “I saw what was left on the ground. You didn’t have a sword or knife on you.”

Mo Xuanyu’s eyes flickered up to Jin Ling’s face and held his gaze. Through a flicker of something not unlike fear when through him, Jin Ling met the stare solidly. This was his youngest paternal uncle. He was scatterbrained and achingly intelligent, but not dangerous.

B ased on how he acts, I don’t think he’ll turn us over to Jiang Cheng. Wei Wuxian’s voice was a candle flame of warmth in his and Mo Xuanyu’s mind space. He was also guessing at the reason for the pinpricks of frost he could feel.

Mo Xuanyu looked away first. “Practical application of what your uncle was having me research,” he said, voice clipped and matter of fact. “Do not attempt to copy it.”

“I won’t. But…” Jin Ling bit his lip. “You know that it’s Demonic Cultivation, don’t you?”

“It’s what your uncle asked me to study.”

“But, but he should know that it’s dangerous. He wouldn’t… he wouldn’t have…”

Wei Wuxian picked up on what was not being said. Jin Guangyao gave you my notes.

“Yes.” the short answer was a response to both the voice in Mo Xuanyu’s head and the one outside it. He forced himself to continue through a nasty smile. “But what good is my word? I’m a lunatic cut sleeve with no shame and no honor, and worse besides.”

The transfer of the curse mark finished. Jin Ling’s skin was clear and unblemished, and Xuanyu’s eye color faded to their usual grey. “I’ll go get you clean clothing,” Mo Xuanyu said as he stood up.

“Wait!” Jin Ling grabbed at Mo Xuanyu’s hand, and missed, his fingers just missing Mo Xuanyu’s wrist. “Yo- Uncle. You do have honor. You’ve always kept your promises. And before I was…”

Jin Ling was looking at the floor and missed how Mo Xuanyu had flinched and pulled his hand away at the fleeting touch. Mo Xuanyu sighed and tried the make how he pulled his wrist to his chest a natural movement and not a fearful reaction. No need to make the boy feel worse.

Xuanyu, I’d like to tell him something . Wei Wuxian said, coming to a decision while he watched Mo Xuanyu and Jin Ling interact. The switch happened slowly, but was still an acquiescence as much as any verbal answer.

“Jin Ling,” Wei Wuxian’s control of their voice broke a moment and he coughed before continuing. “Though I’m the last person who should say this to you, may I offer some advice?”

Jin Ling looked up and blinked, crossing his arms. His uncle’s posture was different, and his expression was strange. It didn’t have the intensity of before but still held some wistfulness.

“... Do as you like,” Jin Ling replied.

Wei Wuxian almost had to bite back a smile. He could hear the unsaid ‘like you ever do otherwise.’ It was strange, how like this, he was facing three different ghosts. Jiang Yanli and Jin Zixuan, in his gaze and looks, then Jiang Cheng in his mannerisms, before the Sunshot Campaign, before the fall of Lotus Pier. Wei Wuxian saw many ghosts and dead things, but Jin Ling here put more fear in him than them all. Yet, he couldn’t run away from this. It wouldn’t be fair to Jin Ling. It wouldn’t be fair to Mo Xuanyu either if he did.

Wei Wuxian couldn’t reveal himself, but maybe he could offer something of himself besides repeating cruel words that were  said behind Jin Ling’s back all his life. That he didn’t have a mother to teach him better. That he didn’t have a father to guide his footsteps. Wei Wuxian didn’t grow up for long with either, but he was far from an appropriate role model. The advice he was given he had to learn when he was already grown, and by then it was too late to put it into practice.

“You don’t really think much about what you say until you say it.”

Jin Ling’s cheeks turned red as he sputtered. “I don’t need another lecture-- ”

Wei Wuxian continued. “It means you have to learn the two most important phrases in one’s life. Some people learn them out of necessity, others never learn them, and their lives are more difficult for it.”

“So what if it’s ‘difficult,’ just… today still doesn’t prove anything. I’ll keep getting stronger.” Jin Ling replied, but shifted his bare feet on the floor, revealing an inner disquiet to his words. “What two?”

“‘Thank you,’ and ‘I’m sorry.’”

Jin Ling frowned. He knew those words! He turned to look away, purposefully disobedient. His capacity for obedience had shortened considerably from the day’s events. “What can anyone do to me if I don’t?”

A challenge, a reassurance that Jin Ling still had control, even if he didn’t feel like he did.

Instead of chastising him, though, Wei Wuxian smiled. “Nothing, but someday, if you don’t learn to, you will say those words in tears.”

Wuxian, what are you saying?

Despite your assurance that his talking out of turn is part of his charm, Jin Ling will have a happier life if he learns this lesson now when he’s still young.

It also made him wonder. If Jin Ling acted like this with everyone around him, even with someone he obviously cared about, like Mo Xuanyu, it would ruffle some feathers.

“If you’re looking for something like that from me, don’t hold your breath--!”

“I’m sorry.”

“What?”

“I’m sorry, for how I treated you on Dafan Mountain.”

It was my first time meeting him, face to face, and I only saw the Sparks Amidst Snow until you knocked some sense into me. Wei Wuxian said to Mo Xuanyu. This is the least I can do.

Wei Wuxian closed his eyes and shifted back before Jin Ling stood up, the image burned into his mind. He looked young, and his clothes looked too big for his frame. Like the young and gangly teenager, he was. Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu both had a faint thought: ‘I was like this too, once. But I wasn’t able to remain so for very long.’

Both of them wanted to make sure Jin Ling had all the time he needed to remain as he was.

“... Okay, fine… I’m…” Jin Ling choked a little, to get out the words. It wasn’t that he didn’t mean it, only that it was a point of pride. “... I’m sorry too. Thanks for saving me, I guess.”

“Anytime,” Mo Xuanyu smiled, but the expression was somewhat sad and wistful. He had never expected, or truly ever required, Jin Ling to say those words to him. “You’d do the same for me. I’ll be back. You still need clean clothes.”

He left the inn to find the closest cloth store or tailor that would have a change of clothing for sale. The intended quick trip was not meant to be. Up the street was a crowd of people. Men in purple pushed through the different stalls, and walking in the center was Jiang Cheng. His expression could curdle milk with the barest glance. Even at a distance, he was able to spot Mo Xuanyu trying to make himself scarce.

Jiang Cheng sped up and reached Mo Xuanyu within seconds. He flicked his hand and the ring on it smoothly became a whip wreathed in purple lightning. A second flick had the end of the whip wrapped securely around one of Mo Xuanyu’s ankles.

“Oh no.” Wei Wuxian said as the whip forced him forward. A smile froze on his face.

“Half of you, seize him and follow me.” Jiang Cheng ordered his subordinates. “The rest, keep looking for my nephew.”

“There are no grounds for you to capture me like this.”

Jiang Cheng seemed to smirk at the wavering confidence in Wei Wuxian’s voice. “Is that so? Fairy, come.”

Fairy had been hidden amongst the other Jiang clan members, her nose to the ground as she tried to track Jin Ling. She’d long left the man in white, that hunt having been successful, but now she wanted her master. Her head perked up at the call of her name, and on the ground was another good person!

The dog ran up to Wei Wuxian, whom she thought was Mo Xuanyu, but he tried to scramble away on his hands, blood draining completely from his face. “Get away, get away, get away!!”

Mo Xuanyu took the opportunity to force himself forward. It was less like pulling in and out of water, and more like Mo Xuanyu was pushing Wei Wuxian out of the way of a deadly strike. “Sit!”

Fairy stopped in place, tilting her head trying to parse out two sets of orders going in different directions. But she sat in place.

Jiang Cheng snarled and had Zidian force lightning into his captive again. The switch of utter fear to comfortable authority was not what he wanted, but he was more pissed off that he had to do it in the first place. Of course, Wei Wuxian would make things difficult.

Wei Wuxian cringed again at Fairy’s presence before Mo Xuanyu forced himself into control again. He’d go as long as he’d need to, to stay as a wall between Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian.

The small entourage of Jiang Cheng and the other purple-clad disciples dragged Mo Xuanyu into a building that they had bullied the owner out of and sat him down at a table across from Jiang Cheng. Fairy followed, whimpering and taking a position in a corner.

Tea was brought in and poured into two cups, but neither Jiang Cheng or Mo Xuanyu reached for them at first. Outside the door, the Jiang Sect members took up guard.

“Where is he?” Jiang Cheng ordered, voice authoritative, before taking a sip.

Mo Xuanyu leaned one elbow on the table, affecting a falsely mournful expression. “Pity that you ask about another man while showing that you don’t even remember me. And after all the times that we’ve seen each other too.”

Jiang Cheng spat out the tea he tried to swallow. There was definitely a suggestion in there. But… he leaned closer and tried to mentally replace the black outfit with the golden robes of Lanling Jin. He could remember a young man waiting to greet Jin Ling when he was brought back to Lanling, smiling and just a little rumpled around the edges, like he had rushed to drop everything to welcome a little boy home.  “... Mo… Xuanyu.”

Xuanyu, you… You… ?! Wei Wuxian heard the suggestion in Mo Xuanyu’s tone too but… Mo Xuanyu and Jiang Cheng? Together? No, not in a million years. Jiang Cheng didn’t have enough charm to do that.

Of course not. Mo Xuanyu assured, even as he smirked widely at Jiang Cheng. But look how red he is.

The tea cup shattered in Jiang Cheng’s hand. “Shut up.” He took a moment to breath and gather the pieces of the cup into a pile. “... Despite breaking the law of the Han lands and practicing demonic cultivation, I have nothing to say to you. He can’t hide behind you like a coward forever.”

“Who said he’s hiding?” Mo Xuanyu’s smirk held, and perhaps even increased. “I’m the one talking to you, as it currently pleases me to do so.”

“You…”

Wei Wuxian didn’t know if he should have been laughing his head off at Jiang Cheng’s expense or bowing before Mo Xuanyu in awe.

Mo Xuanyu, sensing that he was pressing more buttons than he perhaps wanted to, let his smirk slide to something more gentle and conciliatory. Right then, he looked very much like his older brother.

Jiang Cheng’s eyes narrowed, but the shift had done it’s work. “Hmph. I can tell you’re related.”

“Kind of you to say so. Dare I think that you’re beginning to like me?” Mo Xuanyu’s lean turned more sultry, and all it took was a shift of weight.

Wei Wuxian felt a strange mix of emotions engulf him under the surface of their thoughts. If he was in control, he could imagine his face heating up at the tone, at the position. Everything was calculated, directed towards a willful ‘seduction,’ but how the body twisted in the chair, how Mo Xuanyu’s words formed around his mouth…

He had never been jealous of Jiang Cheng, in his entire life, and yet…

Wei Wuxian pushed the thought away. O-oh, Xuanyu, you might kill me with joy. You’re… you’re a genius.

Jiang Cheng, noticing the shift in tactics, was not so easily swayed, and looked away. “As if.”

Mo Xuanyu inwardly preened with Wei Wuxian’s praise. He couldn’t help but indulge despite their desperate situation. Still, he continued his performance. “Such a pity. I could show you a good time, too.”

Jiang Cheng’s gaze shifted back. With his back straight in his seat, it gave the impression that he was looking down at Mo Xuanyu. His nose wrinkled, while his lips shifted into a cruel sneer.

“Really now? Is  that what you said to--”

“No.”

Mo Xuanyu’s stance completely shifted, turning glacial in tone and expression. His eyes glared up at Jiang Cheng’s.

“So, he doesn’t know about that , then.”

Mo Xuanyu’s face, if it could, turned even more barren and inhospitable. Wei Wuxian remained silent.

“Good, you are angry.” Jiang Cheng shifted, arms crossed over his chest, but he kept his head tilted so he looked down on Mo Xuanyu as he talked. “That is easier than you making a fool of yourself.”

“Wasn’t so foolish when you were blushing like a maid on her wedding night.” Mo Xuanyu responded savagely.

“Pretty words, but a petty accusation coming from someone I last saw screaming on the ground.”

Mo Xuanyu picked idly at his fingernails, shoring up his defenses for a new plan of verbal attack. “Who wouldn’t cower in the presence of a sect leader as well-known and fearsome as yourself?”

The words, while humble, were delivered in a way that was anything but.

“How dare…” Jiang Cheng fumed for a second. How dare someone of such a low cultivation level look down on him. Only Lan Wangji had done that in recent years and it grated just as much. “Bring him out.”

“My apologies Sect Leader Jiang, but you will have to deal with this one’s presence for a while longer.” Mo Xuanyu let his gaze slip to the door, where Fairy was still sitting in a confused guard. He looked back at Jiang Cheng, the implication clear; Wei Wuxian was afraid of dogs, and Mo Xuanyu would not allow him to the forefront while she was still present.

Jiang Cheng looked at Fairy and slowly got up, as if under great strain, to open the door and shoo her out. “Go find your master, keep him out of trouble.”

The dog barked. Finally, a clear path of action! She slipped out the door and ran, catching the scent of Jin Ling.

“Very well, now that the dog is gone, How the fuck did you get here?”

“My apologies again, Sect leader Jiang, but it’s still Mo Xuanyu, wandering accused lunatic. But I can answer your question.” Mo Xuanyu grinned unpleasantly with all his teeth. “Not that you really need it to be answered, considering the subject of your personal hunts. I’m sure you can guess. In summary though, I made an offer, he accepted, but there were... mistakes… that this one made to lead to our current situation.”

Though he listened, it was obvious that Jiang Cheng was just getting angrier and angrier. Zidian had become a ring again, but it wouldn’t take much to have it turn back into a whip. This man was climbing a mountain that was having fewer and fewer handholds.

Wei Wuxian could see the signs, ones more subtle than Mo Xuanyu could read. If things kept up, Mo Xuanyu would be hurt, and Wei Wuxian couldn’t bear to think of it. Xuanyu, maybe I should take control now. The curse mark is still on us and--

He scared you. Deliberately. And he would hurt you given the chance. I won’t let that happen. Mo Xuanyu said before turning his attention back to his opponent.

“And how,” Said Jiang Cheng, voice made of pure vinegar, “did a self-professed lunatic get his hands on forbidden knowledge? Was it from the Jin Sect?”

“I’m an accused lunatic, not a self-professed one. And that you have to ask, honored Sect Leader, means you already know the answer.”

“I want confirmation. I want to know if you just stumbled upon it or if someone gave it to you.”

Mo Xuanyu could feel Wei Wuxian’s weak smile as he spoke. I probably deserve… much worse.

Despite the protest, the gratefulness that Wei Wuxian felt added to Mo Xuanyu’s resolve to snark and stall in the face of Jiang Cheng’s fury. Mo Xuanyu felt a small pressure against the nape of his neck, as if Wei Wuxian had sat behind him and pressed his forehead against Mo Xuanyu’s back. Thank you.

Mo Xuanyu crafted a shield of ice in their mind that protected them both. You don’t deserve to be hurt. Ever.

Jiang Cheng banged on the table next to where Mo Xuanyu sat.

“I’m sorry honored Sect Leader, but I cannot give you that sort of confirmation. I can say that it would be difficult to just stumble across the information I had.”

“Stop!” Jiang Cheng said as he pinched at Zidian on his finger. “Stop speaking in equivocations. Unless you want to meet Zidian again. Maybe we’ll see if that brings Wei Wuxian out…”

Lan Wangji shut the door to the room at the inn behind him, placing a talisman on it that would alert him if it opened. Though there was a window, it was still the second floor, and his ‘prisoner’ would prefer not to escape in such an undignified manner. He went to the community stable and retrieved Apple, who went with him with some reluctance. Mo Xuanyu wasn’t with him, and that immediately set the animal on edge. Lan Wangji could relate to these feelings, and simply fed him an apple to coax him out.

He walked throughout the small town, going up and down its streets, searching. Fairy had left him as soon as she saw he had things under control to look for her master, and Lan Wangji also wished he could have done the same to search for his companions.

It was only a few hours, but it had been the longest since Dafan Mountain he had gone without knowing where Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu were. This wasn’t like when he had to see to duties in the Cloud Recesses. He had no way of finding or contacting them, and his calm footsteps grew quicker, less even. His gaze shifted, back and forth. To anyone who was familiar with the looks of a Lan Sect disciple, he would appear agitated. But very few here had actually seen a cultivator from the Lan Sect before, and with Lan Wangji’s taciturn expression, no one paid any comment.

As the sky grew more and more dark, he bought some tanghulu at a stall and began to nibble at it. If he ate it at the pace Mo Xuanyu showed him, his mind would once more wander and fill with more worry and more questions: Where were they? Had they disappeared, deciding at that moment to run away? But that didn’t seem right. At this point, he trusted Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu enough to know they wouldn’t do that, not without leaving a clear sign of their departure. And of course, Mo Xuanyu would never leave Apple behind.

He kept looking with Apple. If they were injured, Apple would need to carry them.

He hoped they weren’t injured. They were only bringing Jin Ling back, that couldn’t have been dangerous. But, he still left them.

If anything happened, he had been the one to leave them alone with an unconscious younger disciple, who could offer no support but had to be supported. It would be Lan Wangji’s fault.

Even as he chewed, he felt his throat start to close up, his eyes felt itchy.

He had done the wrong thing, again.

He should have told them he knew, and that he didn’t care, that… that he was happy anyway. That both of them were alive, when he had the chance, but the words could never come out.

Wei Ying, Mo Xuanyu, where did you go? Let me find you, please… please…

At the moment Jiang Cheng implied the use of more violence, Wei Wuxian tried to push through. He’s not kidding, Xuanyu. I can tell. Let me handle this.

This wasn’t like when he told Mo Xuanyu how to remove the curse mark. Any anger Jiang Cheng had was foremost for him. To allow him… his friend, (why does that word seem to encompass very little of their relationship to him?) to cushion any blows meant for him, could not be allowed.

Yet, whenever he just reached the surface, he felt Mo Xuanyu’s presence press him back down.

Mo Xuanyu switched to a different tactic. “My brother always seems to have eyes and ears everywhere, honored sect leader. I would answer directly if I could.”

Jiang Cheng’s turning of Zidian stilled. His eyes narrowed. Whether it was from the implication that Jin Guangyao, somehow, was watching them. Whether it be through means of cultivation tools, or there being a spy in his sect, Mo Xuanyu was vague enough to make webs enshroud his thoughts.

Fighting dirty.

How repugnant.

“Then let me ask you a question, Mo Xuanyu,” Jiang Cheng replied. “Is Jin Ling safe, if he returns, or do you not care?”

Mo Xuanyu immediately rose from his seat, glaring down with unbridled rage. “How dare you. If you knew what we’ve already done to keep him from harm--”

He placed too much weight on the leg with the curse mark, and it buckled, making them fall to the ground, only just catching himself on the edge of the table before collapsing completely.

Neither noticed Jiang Cheng’s look of confusion at the passionate response or noticed how his hands jerked forward, but they were still too close to his sides to attempt to reach across the table.

Mo Xuanyu took a moment to breathe through the pain and find equilibrium again. It was harder with Wei Wuxian fussing over him, but he had to finish. “He is safe. Because he has you.”

The room remained silent, until Jiang Cheng rose to his feet once more, and turned away. “You’re injured.”

He walked to the door, not turning around as he opened it. “Stay there. Don’t move or you’ll regret it.”

The door slammed shut, only leaving the shards of the teacup on the table, drops of cold tea falling off the edge.

Mo Xuanyu sunk the rest of the way to the ground, bumping his head against a table leg in frustration. “Well, this is not going as planned. Are you okay?”

Xuanyu, please save your strength. If we get riled up it’s just going to spread. Wei Wuxian said in a voice that almost sounded like a plea. … You didn’t have to step in like that. He could have hurt you.

“But then he would have hurt you. And hurt you worse-- fuck…” Their leg really did hurt. Mo Xuanyu tried to hold back a whimper from the pain. “Do you mind?”

Not at all.

Wei Wuxian finally regained control, and carefully eased their position back to alleviate weight. It still hurt, especially adding the burns from Zidian into the mix, but he knew how to handle this sort of pain. “Need to find a way out of here. Lan Zhan must be back in town, and he’s going to wonder why we aren’t out and about.”

Hopefully, he has Apple with him. He’s a smart donkey, maybe he could smell us out. Mo Xuanyu suggested, but his tone gave away his sense of exhaustion. It had taken so much to continue that false bravado for so long, but he did not regret doing it.

Wei Wuxian laughed softly under his breath. “I’ll give him that credit.”

He was unsure what to do at this point. Unless a miracle happened, they were about to be shipped off to Lotus Pier, and Lan Wangji would never be able to find them. It was odd, that the thought of Lan Wangji never knowing made Wei Wuxian feel slightly worse.

He shook his head. No, they would find a way out, but before then, he wanted to try something else first. Xuanyu, this isn’t helpful for getting us out, but I want to convey… a hug, to you.

Mo Xuanyu was silent for long enough that it seemed he would say no, but--

Yes, please. I’m so tired.

Tired from the day, tired from the injury, tired from simply living.

...Okay.

At first, Wei Wuxian wrapped his arms around himself, but instead of stopping there, he focused on the image of himself, his actual self, in his mind’s eye. Someone taller, with broader shoulders, but who was even more underfed.

Mo Xuanyu felt himself be pulled into an embrace, arms wrapped around his shoulders, and strands of untied hair brushing against his face. Mo Xuanyu’s soul stiffened and jumped, even when he knew it was coming because this was the first time Wei Wuxian initiated full ‘contact’ like this. How startling, the feeling of hair against his face , even if it was not real. It was not real, but…

Wei Wuxian felt Mo Xuanyu’s weight settle against and into his arms, and a dampness gathering in his hair. He was shocked.

You’re… crying?

Wei Wuxian was utterly unprepared for this. He thought he would be glad, feeling more open emotions from Mo Xuanyu, but all it did was fill him with anxiety. He hated seeing people cry… well, he used to. A lot of people cried in front of him at the height of his authority as the Yiling Patriarch. Still, feeling his ‘hair’ grow damper almost made him pull away, try to pull a funny face or a joke, try to shift it, but then Mo Xuanyu replied.

It’s been a while since I’ve… since I’ve had something this nice.

Nice?

This… was nice? Mo Xuanyu felt comfortable like this, even with tears?

Wei Wuxian sighed in faint exasperation. Getting hugged by a phantom is nice. Xuanyu, your perspective still needs improvement.

Even though it was the same for him. To have another conscious body close to him, to respond to his touch, to tolerate it, even welcome it. Wei Wuxian could barely remember what that was like.

Mo Xuanyu shrugged. It’s not as bad as someone grabbing me.

Certainly.

… And it’s you.

… Wei Wuxian giggled, and slowly eased out of his concentration as a smile spread across his face. “Oh? If you tell me that I’ll put on airs as being among the people you like most, don’t you worry about that?”

Oh, shut up. Mo Xuanyu’s response held no animosity. Let’s get out of here already.

“Sounds good.” He slowly got to his feet and began to make a circuit around the room, attempting to find any weak point.

Until they heard footsteps. More footsteps. Sounds of discussion, then many footsteps, running away. The door opened and revealed Jin Ling.

Chapter Text

“Come on. You have to go, now.”

Both Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian stared at Jin Ling, both agog at the youth’s appearance through the doorway. Where were the guards? Where was Jiang Cheng?

Jin Ling rolled his eyes and tapped his foot impatiently. “Do you want to be imprisoned?”

Well, this is not what I expected. I say go with him. Mo Xuanyu replied.

Best option, at this point. Wei Wuxian nodded to Jin Ling and walked over, willing his limp not to show. He could handle the pain until they reached freedom. “Lead the way.”

Jin Ling did just that, going through the same hallway they entered, only now making a sharp turn into another hallway instead of the front entrance. “I left when you didn’t come back. Fairy found me on the street, and I overheard the disciples saying that Uncle found another demonic cultivator he thought was Wei Wuxian. Which is ridiculous--”

Not so ridiculous. Mo Xuanyu interjected.

Wei Wuxian didn’t confirm or deny the allegations, focusing instead on not stumbling on the weakened leg. Curses like this, he once was able to handle no problem, but Mo Xuanyu’s still healing body did not have that built up immunity yet. Like his golden core, it took practice and practice conducting demonic cultivation to not grow exhausted, even if he brought his own power when his soul entered Mo Xuanyu’s body. He had had months in the Burial Mound to refine it, but despite Mo Xuanyu’s exceptionally strong will, it could take years for someone to build up an immunity to a poison.

There was another vacant room in the business, where barrels and chests were kept for storage. In the farmost corner was a small window, just enough for someone to crawl through. Jin Ling gestured to it, purposefully nonchalant, but avoiding eye contact.

Wei Wuxian understood the sentiment Jin Ling was trying to convey. He had just learned the first lesson, and he was purposefully disobeying Jiang Cheng with this action. Would he try to confront him? … Wei Wuxian almost suggested that Jin Ling could come with them, at least to avoid Jiang Cheng’s wrath for a little while longer, but that would be ridiculous. Even with Lan Wangji around, there was no guarantee of Jin Ling’s safety, and that beast would travel too. No, better to separate here.

But before he got the weaker leg through, Mo Xuanyu spoke up again.

Wuxian. Could you… let him know I saw thanks?

Wei Wuxian smiled, then looked back at Jin Ling. “Thank you, for letting u… for letting me out.”

Jin Ling’s gaze had turned to the door, watching for any disciples wandering about, and gives an awkward shrug. “Yeah, whatever. Don’t get caught again.”

Ah, he really does take after you, too. Wei Wuxian commented, unable to hide the warmth in his tone, and not especially wanting to either. If there was the awkward but kind side to Jin Ling, there was always hope for a less difficult future for him. A small cat, fluffing up to look tough, just like his youngest uncle. It was an endearing image.

What’s that supposed to mean? Mo Xuanyu commented, only slightly annoyed. He was too tired to put up much of an argument.

It means what it means.

Hmph.

Without another word, Wei Wuxian slipped out. Thankfully, there wasn’t a steep drop in the slightest, and he had a decently fast limp.

Despite the speed, Mo Xuanyu was still worried. Now they were out of one danger, they had to deal with another. Will we be able to do something about the Curse Mark?

With Lan Zhan’s power, we should be able to handle it with little trouble. Wei Wuxian reassured. Though the man eating castle had a near unbearable amount of wandering a resentful souls, one with a strong enough will, fed by the masses, might be weakened once removed. He might even be able to use his spiritual energy to drive it out.

Or it will just grow more vicious.

Ah, what a waiting game! Either way, Wei Wuxian was assured that with Lan Wangji’s assistance, it would be fine. He would never leave Mo Xuanyu out in the lurch, so there was no need to worry Mo Xuanyu with another lesson for the time being.

Heading down a few back alleys was all it took to return to the area near the bridge. It had gotten rather dark at this point, and there was hardly any people around, including Jiang Sect disciples, making it very easy to see the figure in pure white, holding the long reins of a grumpy donkey. Lan Wangji’s head was hung low, his long hair covering half his face, until, suddenly, he looked up, making direct eye contact with Wei Wuxian. The gaze filled him with an immense sense of dread.

… Fuck, we’re in for it now, aren’t we. Mo Xuanyu began to shrink in on himself inside their mindspace. He didn’t think he could handle Lan Wangji being angry with them. They could explain, but that could all be shoved aside in an instant, because Mo Xuanyu broke his promise to meet. He didn’t keep his word, or at least was late on keeping it. There were no guarantees in the world, even when he hadn’t wanted to think it, living in Koi Tower. Everything depended on making sure that the people above him - his brother, sometimes the dowager Lady Jin - were content. Jin Guangyao’s subtle look of disappointment whenever Mo Xuanyu had to confess not being able to finish something was a stab in the heart. This look on Lan Wangji’s face? This was worse. He couldn’t freeze his heart from the distress while taking the brunt of it.

Wei Wuxian stepped back suddenly, his own worry heightened by Mo Xuanyu’s fear. However, he went back on the leg hit by both Zidian and harboring the Curse Mark, and it immediately gave out. “Oh, fuck--”

Lan Wangji’s eyes widen a fraction before rushing forward. It took less than a second, until he was hovering by his side, hand shooting out and latching onto his sleeve.

“H-hey, easy-- easy there, Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian exclaimed, too surprised to realize he said his birth name out loud until it was too late. Mo Xuanyu had never done something that intimate before.

However, Lan Wangji simply pulled him back forward by the sleeve as his weight shifted back to the good leg. Once steadied, Lan Wangji knelt down and reached for his trouser leg.

“Wait-- wait a second, you don’t--”

Lan Wangji looked back up at him, the lightness of his eyes the shade of lanterns on a dark night. He halted, but was not getting up. He was waiting for permission.

Mo Xuanyu stopped trying to freeze away the pricks of dread that were curling into his soul. Lan Wangji was…. Was not mad? He wasn’t going to leave them for missing when they should have met up. We should tell him everything now.

“... No use hiding it.” Wei Wuxian parted the length of his robe, to expose the trouser leg, then gingerly eased it up, until the discoloration was easily visible on his bare skin. “W--” --Damn, he was awful with that today-- “... I transferred the mark from Jin Ling. I’ll need Hanguang-jun’s help handling the spirit, when it comes to collect.”

Lan Wangji reached out, his fingers just brushing against Wei Wuxian’s, as he pulled the trouser leg further, exposing the rest of his calf. Among the curse mark were fresh burns from Zidian. “... And you met Jiang Wanyin.”

Wei Wuxian froze. He wasn’t prepared for Lan Wangji to make that quick a connection, when he should have. With Jin Ling on his own, Jiang Cheng would be sure to follow, or at least, that was the assumption they both had, but still!

“That’s--”

But, surprisingly, Lan Wangji interrupted before he could think of a proper reason. Instead of controlled and measured, the words were rushed out, the eyes turned back to look at him-- no, at them .

“Wei Ying, Mo Xuanyu...” Both souls feel something shift inside them at Lan Wangji saying both their names, like the cracking of ice on a lake that’s been frozen all winter, now being warmed by the coming of spring. “...I was gone for only a few hours.”

I told you he knew! Mo Xuanyu crowed. He felt his emotions rise even more, breaking through some of his soul-deep exhaustion before it could take over again. I told you so! Tell him we-- I needed to talk to Jin Ling a bit.

Wei Wuxian’s face flushed from the image of Lan Wangji still kneeling on the ground, and the rush of Mo Xuanyu’s vindication. “... Xuanyu needed to talk to Jin Ling. He wasn’t really able to until today, since I was in control during most of what happened on Dafam Mountain. He’s his nephew by blood, after all, and Xuanyu wanted to actually see him.”

Lan Wangji considered this explanation and it makes sense. Mo Xuanyu obviously cared for Jin Ling, and Jin Ling must have in return, after he tried to protect him from Jiang Cheng on Dafan Mountain. He and Wei Wuxian would have immediately agreed to take on the Curse Mark. However, that didn’t explain the other encounter. He slowly rose to his feet. “And you two being hit by Zidian again?”

Wei Wuxian’s mouth shut tightly.

“... How are you both. Be honest.”

… We’re fine. Mo Xuanyu first offered to say, before correcting himself. … We will be fine. I’m just… tired. Say what you want to him.

“He’s tired,” Wei Wuxian replied. “And I completely understand that. As for me, well, we’re both in the world. Jiang Cheng would have found me eventually. That’s just how things go.”

He moved his face away from Lan Wangji to scan the area. “Anyway. You found that person, right? We should go to where you put them.”

He began to walk, trying to hide the limp and not succeeding in the slightest.

“Do not go…” Lan Wangji called back softly.

Wei Wuxian turned around and flinched. His leg hurt more now, so frustrating. “If I don’t go, how can we get there?”

Lan Wangji guided Apple a few steps forward, until he was within easy reach. “Get on.”

“... He likes Xuanyu, he doesn’t like me.”

I can handle it enough to get on and stay on Apple. Mo Xuanyu replied.

“No, no, I can do it--” Wei Wuxian replied out loud. He didn’t know how much it would hurt for Mo Xuanyu, somewhat sheltered in their mind space.

When he moved, Lan Wangji raised his arm. At first, Wei Wuxian almost thought he was barring his way.

“Take it.”

“What?”

“You’re in pain, you need help.”

Wei Wuxian sighed, hands on his hips. “I can get up on my own--”

Ow, ow--! Okay, he put too much pressure on the bad leg doing that.

Wuxian. Please. It was less of a plea, and more of an annoyed ‘why don’t you ever let anyone take care of you’ tone, which Wei Wuxian at another time would exclaim that Mo Xuanyu was being an obvious hypocrite in that area!

Only if you take Lan Zhan’s help.

… Fine.

Then fine. Wei Wuxian focused back on Lan Wangji. “Xuanyu says he can handle Little Apple, just be careful helping him up, alright?”

“En.” Lan Wangji nodded.

Mo Xuanyu took a moment to fortify himself before the switch. It didn’t help at all. He instantly cried out in pain, and has to grab Lan Wangji’s arm to stop himself to not fall. “Shit… shit…”

Throughout the ordeal, Lan Wangji has to squash down his panic at the fall, and his impulse to pull Mo Xuanyu into his arms. He was strong enough, Mo Xuanyu didn’t have to--

But then he remembered the first night in the Jingshi, and his body went still, only giving support, not direct aid.

He looked up, the angle bringing him closer to Lan Wangji. Close enough to see the red rims under his eyes. Mo Xuanyu felt something inside him clench. “Shit.”

He forced his gaze away, and managed to leverage himself up and over Apple’s back, but even that left him sweating from exertion. At least he doesn’t feel his wounds reopening. Another upside, another victory. Under him, Apple stayed still but for the contented flicking of his ears.

I should have warned you that it got worse.

Mo Xuanyu was very tempted to curse out Wei Wuxian at that belated comment. If he didn’t know better, he’d think that Wei Wuxian was hoping that the unexpected increase in pain would have him falling into Lan Wangji’s arm. This wasn’t a romance story. All he would get from that would be a panic attack and blood on Lan Wangji’s white robes.

Once Mo Xuanyu was settled, Lan Wangji tightened his grip on Apple’s reigns and started to lead the donkey forward at a slow pace. His eyes were less on the road, and more on his friend. “... the room is on the second floor,” he said, voice deep and quiet.

When we get there, I’ll switch back. Wei Wuxian offered. C an you handle it until then?

“I can,” said Mo Xuanyu, in answer to Wei Wuxian despite speaking out loud. Now that Lan Wangji revealed that he knew… maybe… “Han-” Mo Xuanyu coughed and took a moment to breathe. “Hanguang-jun. When did you know?”

“Dafan.”

Few words this man. “How, though? Was it when Wuxian summoned Wen Ning?”

“He told me himself.”

That did not make sense. Mo Xuanyu had been there for almost every conversation that Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had. Forgetful he might be, but Wei Wuxian was scrupulous about their safety, and it had not been safe to say that he was back in the world. The man was mirroring Mo Xuanyu’s thoughts with a squawk of How? How did I do that?

“Now we’re both confused… In any case, you still need to apologize.”

Lan Wangji tilted his head in a question.

“When you grabbed Wuxian to make him stop playing. That hurt.”

“...” Lan Wangji stopped and bowed deeply from the waist. “I apologise for grabbing you. The song he was playing…” He trailed off, not knowing what words he could use to explain how deeply meaningful that tune was to him, to them, and how much it had sparked something dark in him when Wei Wuxian - Wei Ying - was playing it for someone else.

“Oh… Oh!” Realization dawned on Mo Xuanyu’s face like the sun coming from behind a mountain. Words weren’t needed. Not when such a knowing expression came into being. “I understand completely now. And you’re forgiven. Not like you’ve done it again so… thank you.”

Lan Wangji’s back straightened, long hair swishing with the motion enough for Mo Xuanyu to catch the tinge of red on his ear in the moonlight. “... Mn.”

Wait, did I miss something? Wei Wuxian asked.

Yes, you did miss something Wuxian, Mo Xuanyu replied. And it’s up to you to figure out what it was.

Still, that realization, while another good thing for the evening, didn’t help the searing pain in his leg. “Hanguang-jun… can you talk to me? Something about Wuxian? It… helps. And he’ll object, which will also help.”

I thought we were a team, Xuanyu! Betraying me when you find another benefactor! How mercenary! Wei Wuxian complained, but there was no actual sense of betrayal to it. Oh well, not like you’ll learn much. Lan Zhan doesn’t know how to tell stories--

“En.” Lan Wangji answered.

The remainder of their walk was spent with Lan Wangji telling the story of how he and Wei Wuxian first met, and then Wei Wuxian’s further misadventures and disturbances during his first trip to the Cloud Recesses. While Wei Wuxian would flippantly wave off most of his antics, never giving very many details, it was as if Lan Wangji transcribed all these occurrences into his mind, keeping them locked away, until he decided to open them and look over them again. In every word there was some exasperation but also an underlying hint of fondness.

To Mo Xuanyu, these events sounded like truly happy memories for Lan Wangji, and they were all about Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian, meanwhile, was constantly running his mouth throughout the tale. Stop, stop, stoooppp! I sound way more impressive when I tell it! He makes me sound like a brat!

Mo Xuanyu laughed softly between Lan Wangji’s retelling and Wei Wuxian’s objections. He had gotten exactly what he wanted. Lan Wangji talking more in the calming voice of his, and Wei Wuxian utterly flustered and pouty.

Lan Wangji was not used to hearing Mo Xuanyu laugh. It was different from how Wei Wuxian laughed. Wei Wuxian had a range of big-bellied laughs that fill the space with his joy, while Mo Xuanyu’s laughter strangely made him lean his head to the side to hear better, to want to be drawn closer to hear it. His heart jumped a little at the sound, but it didn’t show on his countenance. It was a happy thing, to learn more about the other man. Expressing that the fact he knew they were both present wasn’t a disaster. That having both Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian still here was good. It almost brought a smile to Lan Wangji’s face.

It seemed like in no time at all,  they were at their destination. Lan Wangji tied Apple to a post outside the inn, nodding to the stable guard to keep watch.

Alright, alright. You two have had your fun at my expense, time to switch.

“Sure thing.” Mo Xuanyu switched back while still on Apple, who then instantly sat down to dump Wei Wuxian off.

“Shit--!”

Lan Wangji quickly stepped forward and caught him before his robes could touch the ground. Wei Wuxian grabbed the front of his clothes, and held onto them for dear life. He should have expected that, but he had not expected Lan Wangji’s quick reflexes used in a situation like this. “I… don’t like the donkey.”

“Are you hurt?”

“Not anymore than I already was.” Wei Wuxian released Lan Wangji’s robes and began to struggle, but then Lan Wangji pressed him closer to his chest, and he stopped. “Lan Zhan?”

“I want to carry you upstairs.” Lan Wangji replied. He did not give a reason, though there are several. “Is this alright with Mo Xuanyu?”

Considering I don’t know how else we’ll get up there… Well, you dealt with a dog. Least I could do.

I don’t like it either, but thank you for your patience. Wei Wuxian replied, before turning back to Lan Wangji. “He said it’s okay, for going up the stairs.”

“En.” Lan Wangji replied, and walked through the doorway of the inn, ignoring any strange looks or whispers.

Even though Mo Xuanyu knew, or at least was beginning to accept Lan Wangji as a trustworthy person, the feeling of hands on him, where he couldn’t see them brought him to a near sense of panic. He closed himself in, went deeper in to get away from sight and touch, and instead focused on other sensations… like the smell of sandalwood, the sound of Wei Wuxian’s chatter.

Since it was obvious that Wei Wuxian was now also present, he attempted to try and make Lan Wangji flustered. He had to, as vengeance for that story! He leaned his head against his shoulder, and plucked at the collar of his pristine robes. “Lan Zhan, you were so talkative earlier, aren’t you ashamed?”

“Why?”

“Isn’t it against Sect rules to gossip about someone? Even if it was to my face, the shamelessness…” Wei Wuxian tsked, tilting his head so his mouth was closer to Lan Wangji’s ear. “I should tell Xuanyu embarrassing stories about you.”

Wei Wuxian grinned evilly. Yes, this would be it. His ears would turn the brightest pink and utter “shameless!” just like before--!

“Don’t mind.”

Wei Wuxian blinked. “... What.”

“Say, if you wish.” Lan Wangji replied, as he ascended to the second floor with ease. Like the body in his arms weighed barely anything at all.

Wei Wuxian felt his face grow red, and immediately turned to his bodily companion. I can’t win!! Why can’t I win anymore?!?! He used to get so flustered and frustrated when I teased him, it’s not fair!

Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help but laugh breathlessly at Wei Wuxian’s complaining, once more taking him away, if only a little, from the shadows hovering on the other side of his mind.

Every notion of laughter stopped when Lan Wangji kicked the door to the inn room open, and heard a very familiar voice, saying--

“I don’t know, I don’t know, Hanguang-jun, I really don’t know--!”

Ah, the ‘head shaker’ of Qinghe! Never expected it would be the Sect Leader himself, snooping in a place like that.

Lan Wangji kicked the door shut behind him, and ignored Nie Huaisang’s pleas to settle Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu on the bed gingerly.

Nie Huaisang immediately attempted to hide cover his face with his fan.

“Don’t do that, Sect Leader Nie. Your clothes are impeccable and refined, but you aren’t fooling anyone.” Wei Wuxian almost felt sorry for the young man, but that stopped when he felt the chill start to grow again inside their body.

“I was just passing by, I don’t know--”

“--About the events that occurred at Xinglu Ridge? Then allow me to explain, and see if there are any details I’m confused about, since this area is under the Nie clan’s territory.” Wei Wuxian added smoothly. He then went on to explain his observations and hypotheses at the function of the ‘Man-eating castle.’ Strangely, all throughout, Mo Xuanyu didn’t offer his own about Jin Ling’s state when they pulled him from the wall. Yet, when Wei Wuxian implied that he thought it could be, and threatened to tell the other clans of its existence, Nie Huaisang finally talked.

“It’s-- it’s my sect’s ancestral burial ground!”

“A burial ground?” Wei Wuxian repeated. “Whose ancestral burial ground buries sabers instead of corpses?”

Still, the answer was far too strange to be an outright lie, yet Nie Huaisang’s gaze shifted from his interrogator to Lan Wangji standing off to the side.

Ah, poor Nie Huaisang. Wei Wuxian thought. He expects to receive support from another young master.

“Hanguang-jun, before I explain, can you promise me something? Seeing that our two sects are allies, and that our older brothers swore fealty to each other, no matter what I say after this, you… and the one beside you--”

The chill became a freezing, tangible rage that Wei Wuxian thought actually made the room drop temperature.

“You know my name, Sect Leader Nie.” Wei Wuxian interrupted.

Nie Huaisang’s eyes widened slightly, but he said nothing.

Of course he would not say anything. That would give away more of his position.

Let me talk to him. I need… let me talk to him.

Wei Wuxian nodded. I will change if they pain in this leg gets to be too much.

He closed his eyes, and when they open,Mo Xuanyu’s gaze was as cold as a winter’s night.

“Specifically, you know my name, Sect Leader Nie. And you know my face. You traveled far to get to Mo Village, honored Sect Leader.”

“... Apologies, Young Master Mo. I thought--”

“You thought I’d be dead.” Mo Xuanyu said flatly. No, he would not get a chance to speak, not until he revealed his true colors. Let Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji know they were talking to a snake. One that appeared harmless enough, but still had fangs.

Lan Wangji stepped forward, his hand resting on Bichen’s hilt when he heard the word ‘dead.’

At the sign of it, Niew Huaisang’s manner and tone change. His back straightened, he shut his fan, and he looked Mo Xuanyu directly in the eyes. “Yes, I did. So, the ritual did not work? But I heard of the Mo family’s demise. You still received what you wished.”

There was a hidden meaning under those words, and Mo Xuanyu wanted to tear them out and bring them to the light, but that wasn’t the point. If Nie Huaisang was being more forthright, he would do the same. “It both did and did not. You were speaking with Wei Wuxian earlier, when he explained the defenses we encountered within your ‘man-eating castle.’”

“Interesting,” Nie Huaisang replied, a small smile going across his face. “Not what I expected, then again, I know hardly anything about demonic cultivation. However, my point still stands. Hanguang-Jun, Young Master Mo, Young Master Wei. I will tell you about what has occurred today if you swear not to reveal this, or what else you know, to anyone.”

The switch happened so fast Wei Wuxian nearly fell back.

Mo Xuanyu would not swear.

He refused.

“I won’t talk unless I hear from all three of you.”

Lan Wangji drew Bichen. “Jin Ling was almost consumed by your ancestral burial ground. If you do not talk, I will make sure that information reaches the Jin clan and the Jiang clan.”

Nie Huaisang raised an eyebrow, and his smiled widened slightly. A mask. “Oh, apologies, Hanguang-jun. You do know how to negotiate after all.”

Nie Huaisang has changed yet hasn’t changed all at once after all these years. Wei Wuxian replied. There was a difference between that young man who smuggled porn and this matured man here, but the innate drive to take wily paths, was still there. So, that was how you met him? And you didn’t--

I’ve been branded a lunatic. No one would believe me if I ever told. Mo Xuanyu countered.

But now they would be forced to listen to Lan Zhan and Zewu-jun… But, he sought you out? He knew about the ritual?

He wanted you. Mo Xuanyu curled up tighter in their mental space, trying to find it as a refuge when things he didn’t want to share had come to light. To help him to speak to his brother one more time. I knew the ritual, he guided me back to it, as a sure fire way to get you… He spent the whole day with me… He was kind.

Nie Huaisang spoke gently to him, was still there after Mo Xuanyu had a panic attack from him mentioning different things, and never raised a hand against him. After so long living with the Mo family’s abuse, such actions were read as kind.

In Wei Wuxian’s mind, what Nie Huaisang did was similar to wrapping a known firestarter in a flammable cape, giving them a torch, and then watching them go up in flames.

He did not mind at all now, if Lan Wangji roughed him up. But that would only bring more problems, and derail their investigation entirely. Wei Wuxian’s hands curled into fists, trying to push away his emotions, and listen with a more calculated ear. To fall to his emotions would serve no purpose.

After a good minute of silence, Nie Huaisang unfurled his fan once more, looking like a seasoned courtesan with the graceful movement. “I will tell you, then. But know there is not only one person with spies.”

… He does know that even if my brother did have spies I know jack shit, right? And that was just to bait Jiang--

Wait.

I think what he just said right now was meant to be a threat. Wei Wuxian replied, carding a hand through his hair, before bringing it back down quickly after Mo Xuanyu flinched. To let us know he has spies of his own, hanging around. The Qinghe Nie Sect hasn’t fallen, simply shifted their interests elsewhere… Xuanyu, can I ask him why he wants to speak to Chifeng-zun?

Do what you like. I’m too tired to think. What Mo Xuanyu meant was ‘yes, but don’t expect me to contribute.’

Thank you. Wei Wuxian returned his focus on Nie Huaisang. “... Well, then we will be more careful. But I don’t think talking to Chifeng-zun is the whole truth of wanting to bring me back.”

And to push an innocent and vulnerable man to such extremes was unforgivable.

“This is true, but my reasons truly do connect with my brother. I have reason to believe he died… due to mysterious circumstances. Circumstances that I am not in a position to investigate directly. You three, however, are.”

“You wish to use us as tools.” Lan Wangji replied.

“Not necessarily,” Nie Huaisang countered lightly, or at least with the appearance of lightness. “More as a guide. Right now I can tell you about my family’s burial ground, and give you information that might be helpful to your investigation, but nothing else. I can give you direct access to Xinglu Ridge for your search, but besides that, you allow me to leave, and we act as if this meeting never occurred.”

Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian exchanged looks, then turned back to Nie Huaisang. Despite not being the actual two who shared a body, the movement had a strange synchronicity to it.

“... Fair.” Lan Wangji sheathed Bichen.

“Excellent.” Nie Huaisang replied, before going into describing the methods and the history of the Nie Sect’s burial ground.

Though Nie Huaisang spoke at length, and in detail, about things that he would be interested in, Mo Xuanyu couldn’t pay attention. He was thinking more on the night that the Mo Family died. The way that the left arm had gone after them with an arrow’s focus, and not anyone else. Sure, it attacked the Lan disciples, but it hadn’t tried to take them over quite the same way.

Wuxian… Mo Xuanyu said, from the corner of their mind that he had curled himself up in. Another question to ask him. Why did the arm go after who it went after?

Wei Wuxian passed on the question just as Nie Huaisang stood to leave. In response, he tapped his closed fan against his closed lips. “That is from Young Master Mo isn’t it. Ah, well, just as you stuck to your half of our agreement, it may be I did as well.” He smiled, but the shadows across his face cast it into an expression better for  someone holding a knife. “Despite what you may think, I am glad you are alive, Young Master Mo.”

Mo Xuanyu wanted to stare at Nie Huaisang’s retreating back, but Wei Wuxian took that out of his hands, turning around bodily until they heard the door close. It was time for other concerns now, such as the Curse Mark that was still causing them a great deal of pain, no matter how much of a brave face they could put on it.

… I almost don’t want to ask how high the Curse Mark has gotten… Mo Xuanyu finally grumbled. He knew that there was not a chance in hell that he had remained calm throughout… that.

Only one way to find out. Wei Wuxian, without any prompting, removed their trousers to not the damage, in front of Lan Wangji. “Lan Zhan, do you mind taking a look at this--?”

Lan Wangji immediately looked away, and the sight of those red ears brought back a sense of satisfaction to Mo Xuanyu.

Well, that’s one way to get a handsome man’s attention. Mo Xuanyu teased sarcastically. Are we going to proposition him too?

Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. It’s to check--

Suddenly, the pouch between them began to act up. Suddenly, Mo Xuanyu has a front row seat to the most awkward “Rest” duet possibly since it’s origin. Wei Wuxian, pantsless, took out the flute and played in a measured and controlled manner. Lan Wangji took out his guqin and played… while facing away.

Wei Wuxian, things would be much more simple if he simply put their trousers back on!

Instead, Wei Wuxian moved closer, the pouch responded in turn, and without the timely movement of Lan Wangji turning around and sending out a full force of righteous energy, the pouch would have reached the Curse Mark!

Once the arm settled down, Wei Wuxian collapsed on the bed and sighed. “Well, that was interesting.”

“It reached out for you.” Lan Wangji stated.

“More like this,” Wei Wuxian lifted his leg as a means to gesture. “... So, the next body part might be back at Xinglu Ridge. We’ll have to investigate in the morning, then.”

“...” Lan Wangji looked down at the ground. “... There are still burns on your leg.”

“... Yes? But we need the course mark to prove our theory.”

It took a moment for Lan Wangji to deliberate, before stepping forward again, and kneeling down in front of Wei Wuxian again. This time it was on both knees, as if he had already made up his mind to settle there, while Wei Wuxian was sitting down.

Uhhhhhh. Wei Wuxian kept his mouth shut, but his brain was running in circles.

“Let me attend to them.” Lan Wangji replied, looking up through a thick curtain of lashes shading his light eyes.

Wei Wuxian feels suddenly breathless, before swallowing and trying to right his thoughts. I… I think he wants to give spiritual energy, but that’s through touch, are you okay--?

You know, I could gag on all the lovesickness in the air right now. Mo Xuanyu replied. This is too much.

The usually deeper register Wei Wuxian’s voice has in their mind space reached a higher octave. Who’s lovesick?! Not me! This is just two bros, with one helping the other out--

Dunce.

Shush!

Lan Wangji tilted his head, and part his lips, as if to speak up, but then Wei Wuxian replied that it was fine. His hands began to brush gently across the burns, and gentle waves of cooling energy seeped into their skin, bringing a balm to their pain. Wei Wuxian could feel the roughness of his calluses, built up from years from playing the guqin, yet their touch was light. He remained like that for a few minutes, administering the necessary healing, and Wei Wuxian strangely felt so relaxed, he didn’t feel like talking.

However, his mind began to wander a little, but in a way that was hidden, even from Mo Xuanyu. He wondered if these gentle hands could help the scars on Mo Xuanyu’s arms, that maybe the righteous energy would cancel out the diabolic intent the cuts exuded. He almost thought about the ones on their stomach, before quickly pushing it back. That wasn’t necessary, when those were healing well enough.

However, such moments of peace never last long, and Lan Wangji pulled back once he finished handling the burns from Zidian. Lan Wangji stood up, then settled on a chair near the window, turning away delicately as Wei Wuxian pulled up his trousers.

It is then that Mo Xuanyu spoke up. Can you tell him thank you for me? I’m… tired.

… Of course. Wei Wuxian smiled, and once he finished dressing, sat back down on the bed and face Lan Wangji. “Xuanyu wants to say thank you… not only for the healing, I think. But… honestly, ever since Dafan. Without you, I don’t think… I don’t think I would have been able to take care of us, for very long.”

It was a hard confession to make, but a necessary one.

Says you. I’m the one that’s been taking care of us. Mo Xuanyu replied, deliberately ruining the moment. He wasn’t a child to be coddled.

Wei Wuxian stuck out his tongue.

Lan Wangji blinked, obviously confused, before he delicately folded his hands in his lap. “... I wanted to, it was no trouble.”

“Wait, that wasn’t meant for you, it was for him. I… agh, how do I put it into words…” Wei Wuxian began then to go into a thorough description of how their shared body functioned. Now that the truth was revealed, it was better to be more upfront with those things. Besides, more people to create theories with was exciting!

Lan Wangji listened intently, gaze focused entirely on Wei Wuxian. He did not look away, and nodded or interceded when he had a small question, but mostly listened, perfectly enraptured.

I am too tired for him to be this fucking pretty and intense. Mo Xuanyu thought, but he could not look away either.

Chapter Text

Perhaps it was strange, but Koi Tower had become a second home for Lan Xichen. He was undoubtedly there often enough after Jin Guangyao had risen to be Sect Leader after his father’s passing. Just a little thought that he kept in his heart, kept private and safe.

Looking out over the open pavilion, Lan Xichen sighed, content and at peace. He made sure that his and Jin Guangyao’s cups were full. “How can I help A-Yao ready for the upcoming conference?”

“Besides the usual?” Jin Guangyao sat casually on a cushion, his hat on the table between them. A small smile warmed his face in the dimming sunlight. “But don’t you also have to prepare? I would hate to have everything ready here only to leave you and yours bereft in your own preparations.”

What could Lan Xichen do but return the smile? “Thank you for your concern. I will only be taking a small number of disciples to this conference, and my uncle has agreed to help pick whom. However, I do have… a request,” he took a moment to decide on how he wanted to phrase this. “May I invite Wangji and a companion of his?”

“It is your brother who keeps refusing the invitations, not I.” Jin Guangyao raised an eyebrow over his teacup. “Will he accept an invitation given?”

“I will convince him.”

Jin Guangyao took a sip from his cup of tea. He looked out over the scenery that made this particular pavilion quite beautiful. After another sip, he nodded. “I’ll make sure that he is as welcome as you are. What of this companion, though?”

“That is the reason why I am sure that I can convince him. His name is Mo Xuanyu.”

It was only due to his own quick reflexes that Jin Guangyao didn’t drop his cup. Instead, he placed it on the table with a small thunk that echoed more than he intended. “What?”

“A disturbance around Mo Village caused their paths to cross,” Lan Xichen said, oblivious to how Jin Guangyao reacted to this revelation. “And Wangji… has grown attached to him. I think the young man feels the same. You mentioned Mo Xuanyu before, if I recall rightly, and I wanted to see if time could mend the wounds between you two.”

But in his bliss of knowing that his brother was happier than he had been in years, and his hope for reconciliation for another set of brothers, Lan Xichen missed the sharp expression that crossed Jin Guangyao’s face.

“It would be in his hands,” Jin Guangyao finally said, sighing. “Our elders would not look kindly to him returning, even for a short while. Being thrown out of a sect is supposed to be a final thing after all, akin to banishment.”

“Does A-Yao wish to see him though? His appearance won’t reflect on you as he’d be with the Lan Sect party.”

“I don’t think it will matter what I prefer. If he wishes to come, he will be here. If he does not, he will not.” If he had a choice, Jin Guangyao would prefer that Mo Xuanyu not appear at all. But, there would be little that he could do with Lan Xichen being this insistent. “It was not just I who was affected by what happened two years ago, after all.”

Lan Xichen looked down, staring into the depths of his own tea. “Of course, my apologies for interfering.”

“You mean well. I won’t say anything if he does come.” Spinning his cup in a gesture that was not nervous at all, thank you, Jin Guangyao gifted Lan Xichen with a small smile. “You mentioned there was an incident at Xuanyu’s home village?”

“Yes.” Lan Xichen took the offered subject change as one might a lifeline. “There was a strange phenomenon… A demonic arm killed nearly the whole family, plus a member of the household.”

“And Xuanyu survived? How… fortuitous of him.”

“He protected some of our sect’s junior disciples until Wangji arrived. However, he suffered some injuries in the process.”

“I see.” Jin Guangyao’s face was carefully blank, as if he feared to give away too much emotion, or perhaps that he would give away too little. “I’m amazed. He didn’t have much skill with Cultivation when he was sent away. Do you know if his mother’s family allowed him to practice?”

Lan Xichen shook his head, a small frown marred his features as a raindrop marred the surface of a mountain lake. “That I am not aware of. Wangji mentioned that he has some aptitude in writing talismans.”

“He does. While not an innovator, he could copy designs perfectly and had impeccable calligraphy.”

“A worthy skill.” Lan Xichen tried not to let his frown deepen. But his sworn brother made it hard sometimes. How could his expression look so proud of his exiled relation, but his voice be so cold? It was different from how Lan Wangji emoted, where you had to find the subtle inflection and shift in how his features arranged themselves into an expression.

“An ordinary skill. Plenty of people can make talismans. I hope Lan Wangji is able to take Xuanyu’s oddities in stride.”

“It seems that he has… its like new life was breathed into him. He always did his duty and upheld the Lan Sect’s views, but it has been years since I have seen him this contented.”

“Not to be crude but perhaps your little brother and mine have a…” Jin Guangyao gave Lan Xichen a look from the corner of his eyes over the rim of his tea, full to the brim with suggestion, “deeper relationship despite the short period they’ve known each other.”

“I already assumed that.”

With a sigh, Lan Xichen forced himself to relax a little. Surely his sworn brother didn’t mean to appear that he believed that Lan Xichen was completely innocent of the ways of the world. They had both been through war, and they had both been through familial tensions. “But, I wish for my brother’s happiness. As long as one’s actions are righteous and they treat each other well, I don’t have any complaints.”

“I would advise you to caution Lan Wangji about being too free with his heart, especially when Mo Xuanyu is involved. He’s not been known for faithfulness.”

What? Lan Xichen kept his grip on his cup through a small force of will. They seemed so happy, and Mo Xuanyu had seemed so shy. Surely, Lan Wangji wouldn’t let himself and his good nature be used again. Lan Xichen put down his cup, and the porcelain made no sound against the wooden table. He would not allow his brother’s heart to be broken again. There was no way that Lan Wangji would be able to survive it. How disappointing, Mo Xuanyu seemed to be so promising as well.  “Of course. I trust your judgment, and you know more about that man than I.”

Despite that, Jin Guangyao managed to smile. “Perhaps, though, Lan Wangji will be able to clip Mo Xuanyu’s wings and tame him, but the caution remains. I wish them luck.”

Before Lan Xichen could make a reply a harried-looking Jin disciple entered the room, bowing apologetically and offering a folded letter, “Sect Leader, this was said to be urgent…”

Jin Guangyao took it. As he read the contents, his eyes narrowed into a glare.

“Is something wrong?” asked Lan Xichen.

“Ah,” Jin Guangyao forced a smile. “Nothing to concern yourself with. Just a report from a few of our disciples that are east of here.”

“I hope everything is alright.”

“It will be.”

“Hanguang-jun…  could I lean on you?” Mo Xuanyu asked, slightly nervous.

“En.” Lan Wangji offered his arm without objection.
They awoke the next day well-rested, in the body if not mind, with Mo Xuanyu ending up in control. He decided that he could manage the stairs today, but he would not rely on being carried around like a child. Instead, he fell back to the usual exchange he and Lan Wangji set up, that offered him ample support, but also a means to escape if the contact overwhelmed him. Well, when they weren’t on a narrow staircase.

Mo Xuanyu took his arm with both hands and leaned on him as they went down, putting as little weight on the cursed leg as possible, looking down in concentration on each step.

Lan Wangji is silent throughout the descent, but once there, he kept his arm up. “Would you like breakfast?”

“I’ll be fine. I can get it for myself,” Mo Xuanyu frowned. “It’s not like we’re a complete invalid.”

“Making the journey back to Xinglu Ridge. Can you reserve your energy for then?” Lan Wangji replied.

He let go and crossed his arms. As Mo Xuanyu was about to open his mouth to argue, the leg throbbed like a pulse in response to the rising emotion. Right. Bad idea to get upset. “You’re right. I’ll meet you outside for breakfast.”

Lan Wangji nodded, but his arm hung suspended for a moment longer before he lowered it, and set off ahead.

Mo Xuanyu may have watched him go. Or maybe it was Wei Wuxian who controlled their line of sight, because he seemed to have also awoken.

Ah, Lan Zhan really is a good physician. I’m surprised.

Too bad he can't do anything for not sleeping well. Mo Xuanyu carefully made his way outside and found a stray stool to sit on not far from the inn’s entrance.

Hm, I have heard of charms for that. I can try to make one. … The nightmares kept your mind up, didn’t they?

The nightmares were regular. They were nothing new, nothing he couldn’t hold down. But…

He curled over his knees, huddling up in embarrassment.

“... We weren’t able to do the knocking game…” Mo Xuanyu’s voice was too small for anyone else to hear save for Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian suddenly had the urge to lay down on the ground from the force of that admission. The pure, unadulterated thought that Mo Xuanyu was adorable coursed through him, and it took a fair amount of strength to keep that thought from overflowing into their shared mind space. The warmth, however, could not be hidden. Just remind him tonight, I’m sure he wants to do the knocking game again. I think we were all a little overwhelmed yesterday.

Mo Xuanyu leaned into the warmth, like a cat that just found the perfect sunspot on the ground. It was just… I'd gotten used to it is all.

Then why not continue it? Both of you have fun. ... I still don’t know why, but you do. Wei Wuxian asked.

Dangerous to get used to things.

Why is it dangerous? Wei Wuxian pressed. He knows I’m here and hasn’t run for the hills.

Mo Xuanyu opened his eyes and looked to the side. Last time I got used to something I was thrown away.

... You’re not talking about Nie Huaisang, are you?

Mo Xuanyu shook his head. No.

His sight shifted back up, keeping a lookout for Lan Wangji, shutting out of the conversation.

Is this you wanting to drop the conversation?

Silence.

I suppose it is.

After ten minutes, Lan Wangji returned from the opposite direction his companions looked, carrying his bounty. “...”
He softly knocked on the side of the wall.

Mo Xuanyu turned and stared at Lan Wangji, startled, before he smiled and knocked on the wall by him.

Lan Wangji’s expression does not shift from the usual taciturn gaze, but there is a shine to his eyes as he gave one more knock and walked forward.

“You missed it too, didn’t you.” Mo Xuanyu replied.

“En.”

There is a feedbag for Apple tied to Lan Wangji’s arm, and he presented some meat buns and, strangely, a persimmon.

Mo Xuanyu took a meat bun and began to eat, but halfway through he looked back up at Lan Wangji with concern. “Wait, you got some for yourself too, right?”

“... Mn.”

The response took far too long to be true. Mo Xuanyu arched an eyebrow in reproach. “Eat at least one of those meat buns, Hanguang-jun. We’ll both need to strength to go back to Sect Leader Nie’s burial castle.”

“ ... Prefer not to.”

“You still need to eat. do you want me to hold it for you?” Mo Xuanyu asked, almost teasing, but also nearly an offer.

You might. Lan sect members are very hygiene conscious. I don’t think Lan Zhan has ever had sticky fingers before, and heavens know he has never thought of licking them. Wei Wuxian quickly commented. Of course, always ready to point out the flaws as well as the virtues of Lan Wangji.

Have you thought of licking them for him? Mo Xuanyu hid his smirk as he took another bite. He was teasing, but the image was… far too nice not to dwell on.

And image of Mo Xuanyu’s pink tongue swiping over Lan Wangji’s fingers, the soft pressure against the rough calluses, appeared in Wei Wuxian’s mind, and he was having some difficulty handling the image.

Just because I think his hands are nicely shaped doesn’t mean I thought about that! Wei Wuxian squawked.

Ohohohoho, he has nicely shaped hands, does he?
Well, don’t you think so?!

Yes. Of course he does. Mo Xuanyu replied as if he was stating a known fact ever since the world was first created.

Oblivious to his travel companions conversation and properly embarrassed at the prospect of being fed like a child, Lan Wangji got over his squeamishness, took one of the buns, and began to eat it daintily.

Mo Xuanyu hummed to himself, finishing his share of the buns before Lan Wangji, but waited until he was done to start on the persimmon. “Thank you, for getting food.”

Lan Wangji is slightly uncomfortable with his sticky hands, and pulled a handkerchief from his sleeve and used it when he looked up when Mo Xuanyu spoke. He didn’t know if a simple thing made a thank you necessary, but to reject it would be rude. “You’re welcome.”

Mo Xuanyu smiled kindly as he finished half of the fruit and held up the rest. It was harder and harder, not to smile around Lan Wangji.  “Want a bite?”

“En.” He took the fruit, his fingertips brushed along Mo Xuanyu’s palm for a moment, before retreating and turning to the side. He tilted his body forward, so none of the excess juice fell on his robes. Once he had his bite, he handed it back. “You can have the rest.”

Mo Xuanyu leaned forward, holding Lan Wangji’s hand steady with his fingertips, as he took the rest of the fruit with his teeth.

S-so bold! Wei Wuxian replied. Seriously, had Mo Xuanyu lost all sense of fear?! Well, that was great, but also even the Yiling Patriarch is amazed!

Mo Xuanyu pressed the feeling of a teasing smile to Wei Wuxian, but then focused once more on Lan Wangji after he finished chewing. “May I make a request?”

Lan Wangji stared, lips slightly parted, with his hand still suspended even after Mo Xuanyu retracted his fingertips. The question brought him back, and he quickly let his hand fall. “Of course.”

“Don’t pick a fight with Sect Leader Nie when we go back there today. We do need to get back to the castle.

“... I will behave.” A ‘but I will not like it’ was left unsaid, despite easily being heard.

Mo Xuanyu raised an eyebrow. “I’m not asking you to like it, just to not slice him. When we met…” He sighed. “He was kind to me, even if he wanted to set me up. I’m angry that he expected me not to be here, but I can’t really do anything about it.”

Lan Wangji knew that what Mo Xuanyu said made sense, and how could they bring charges? Everything was still vague enough, nothing could be proven, and besides would expose Mo Xuanyu’s use of Demonic Cultivation and Wei Wuxian’s resurrection. “... His support is important to this investigation, and if the previous Sect Leader died under mysterious circumstances, and this arm is connected to it, it is important to bring the truth to light. May I also make a request?”

“Depends on what you ask of me.”

“If you or Wei Ying feel uncomfortable, please let me know. Whether it is during the investigation, or if it is something I do, I want to know, so my future conduct will improve,” Lan Wangji said. “ ... Don’t wait as long again after what I did on Dafan Mountain.”

“Define uncomfortable.”

“Meeting Nie Huaisang again, or I... overstep personal boundaries. I haven’t…” Lan Wangji looked reluctant to say the rest, but he powered through. “I am not accustomed to spending an extended amount of time with other people.”

... Lan Zhan... is a bit awkward. Wei Wuxian clarified, but Mo Xuanyu could tell the directness of these words affected him.

It was up to Mo Xuanyu to be more pragmatic. “If you do the same for us. If you let us know if we’re making you uncomfortable, then we will. But there are times where we will have to push ourselves so we can continue.”

Agreed. This investigation is growing… larger, than first thought.

Lan Wangji blinked in surprise. No one had ever considered his sense of comfort before, so he never thought to ask. It was odd. Still,  he nodded. “That is a fair exchange.”

“Then we’re all agreed. Even Wuxian.” Mo Xuanyu pointed at his temple. He then heaved himself up, took the feed bag for Apple, then limped off to take care of his donkey.

As Lan Wangji was about to follow, he unconsciously raised his fingers, still slightly sticky from the persimmon, and eased a digit into his mouth. The aftertaste of the fruit lingered.

He then realized his action, and quickly pulled back, furiously wiping them down with his handkerchief instead, before following after Mo Xuanyu.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian felt that the best time to pick Mo Xuanyu’s brain was as they were riding Apple back to the Nie Sect’s burial castle. Soooo, are you going to tell me what you read from Lan Zhan’s mind?

I think - which Lan Wangji somewhat confirmed - that he wrote that song you played for Wen Ning on Dafan. And that it is very special to him.

Wei Wuxian’s tone abruptly changed to one of confusion. You-- wait, what? How-- just from one time listening, you could--?

There’s more to it than that, but you have to figure it out yourself.

That was all he was going to get? What’s the big deal? He… he remembered the shadows from a fire in a cave, the scent of blood and dampness, gentle hands smoothing across his brow, a faint, soft hum… but it was impossible that all of that was reality. Utterly impossible, that Lan Wangji did all of that.

But, he had given him a song when he asked, to keep him awake.

He remembered he played that song on Chenqing a few times, to help him or A-Yuan fall asleep. Wei Wuxian had never had the chance to ask what the name of it was. Had Lan Wangji really made it up on the spot? That… truly, was impressive. Most of the time, he could only improvise in quick bursts, and though he could catch on well with tunes he heard, most of the time his music was quick instructions or dizzying rounds of apparent nonsense, controlling masses of the dead.

But… why had Lan Wangji reacted so strongly? Was he upset that his song was used for that purpose? He had helped Wen Ning resurrect in the first place!

It was frustrating, and expressed his frustration by making a cross between a whine and a groan. Fine.

Before they could talk more, they reached their destination on Xinglu Ridge. The Array was dismantled, making it much easier to navigate, and the area around the ancestral burial sight had dozens of Nie Sect disciples milling around the premises.

“.... He kept his word.” Lan Wangji said, voice severe.

“That he did.” Mo Xuanyu leaned forward over Apple’s hears, wiving one arm widely. “Sect Leader Nie! Sect Leader Nie! Halt everything!”

Nie Huaisang raised an eyebrow. Under normal circumstances he would ignore the call, ignore the order but… They were supposedly working together.  He raised an arm and all his disciples stopped what they were doing. They put down their carts with bodies, some still crusted with dried blood. With a graceful step, Nie Huaisang walked in front of Lan Wangji, Mo Xuanyu and their sneezing donkey, his face in a perfect mask of a smile. “Good morning.”

“You need to stop the repair work. There’s something in the wall.”

Ah, skipping pleasantries, how backwoods of him. “It is good to see you this morning as well, but of course there are things in the wall. We have kept the wall open where you worked on it, but you disrupted the saber spirits and the balance between the walls and the blades. We’ve had to spend time quelling them.”

“It’s related to the arm.” That got Nie Huaisang’s attention. Mo Xuanyu continued. “We know that you have to work quickly to calm all the spirits, but with your forbearance, we need to pull down more of the wall where Jin Ling was. Left of the hole we made. We think there’s another body part there.”

For a fraction of a second, Nie Huaisang’s eyes widened, then returned to their blank, pleasant mask, if no longer smiling. “You have my consent.”

Mo Xuanyu slid off Apple’s back, leaving him near the entrance to the site. To take the animal closer would be cruel. Yet, as he limped inside, he had to physically brace himself for the noise that shattered inside his head again.

“Hanguang-jun, we might…”

Before he even finished, Lan Wangji fully unsheathed Bichen, providing ample light to the tunnel’s surroundings.

Xuanyu, can I take over? I can handle the pain.

"It’s not the pain, it’s the voices.” Still, Mo Xuanyu relented, easing back into the slightly muffled area of their shared consciousness.

That was what Wei Wuxian meant, but he decided not to explain. He was used to hearing screams of agony among the hundreds, if not thousands. But, that was when he was first thrown into the Burial Mound, and… well…

He preferred not to think about those months if he could help it. But this amount was something he could handle for a few hours.
“If you need to go back further, go ahead.” Wei Wuxian said out loud.

“... Paradox.” Lan Wangji mumbled.

Wei Wuxian snapped his neck back. “Wait-- wait, did you just make a joke?”

“I did no such thing.” Lan Wangji replied primly.

“But you did!”

From Bichen’s illustrious light, Wei Wuxian saw Lan Wanji quirk his eyebrow, in a way that could mean he thought Wei Wuxian was being ridiculous… or that he intended Wei Wuxian to continue to get worked up about it. Such a small shift in this jade-like exterior could mean a dozen different things, and Wei Wuxian had no way of telling what!

“You… rascal…!” Wei Wuxian huffed under his breath as he changed his hairstyle into a high ponytail, before marching forward to inspect the corpses that had been lined up for saber suppression. Lan Wangji followed, looking with warmth in his eyes as the hair swished back and forth wildly.

Wei Wuxian hunched down, before his leg began to smart and he slowly, slowly inched back up. At least with the light he could make out the shape of the bodies, and sadly found that all of them at first glance were whole. “None of them are missing arms…”

The mark started on Jin Ling’s ankle. Mo Xuanyu said. What if it’s a leg? Or just nearer to the ground?

“Oh, point taken!” Wei Wuxian turned back to Lan Wangji. “Lan Zhan, we need to check the pants.”

“That won’t be necessary.” Nie Huaisang entered. “One of the disciples can handle this, there is no need for Hanguang-jun to--”

Lan Wangji nodded to Wei Wuxian, then began slicing without complaint.

“...” Nie Huaisang watched in faint shock, as the pristine cultivation sword was used to disrobe corpses.

Despite everything, Mo Xuanyu snickered.

“Well, I suppose Bichen has already touched many dusty things in the past day…”

Also nice to see Huaisang out of sorts.

Eventually, Lan Wangji paused in his search, and Wei Wuxian retrieved an empty pouch.

“Here.” Lan Wangji was not so uncouth to gesture with Bichen, but indicated with his head. “This one.”

Wei Wuxian stepped forward, and sure enough, a completely different set of legs were sewn onto the body! While the torso was worn with obvious age, the legs were muscular and showed years of training, even in death. Then again, the resentful energy and slight twitch in the foot was possibly an even better sign.

Wei Wuxian gingerly leaned over to pick up a scrap of the trouser to make room for the necessary incision that would have to be made, and then had a thought.

… Can we throw these at him ‘on accident?’

Please do.

Wei Wuxian chucked them back, and the faint squawk of surprise behind them filled both Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu with immense satisfaction.

“Could both of you be mindful of where--”

A suspended Bichen also flicked off shredded trousers with enough force to knock Nie Huaisang a few paces back.

“...”

Let’s pack up the legs and go. They both have the same feeling as the mark.

Oh, right!

Both Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji finished their work and successfully captured the legs. All three of them return to the outer part of the burial site where Apple waited, having successfully fended off any disciple that attempted to pet him, save one young lady that gave him a handful of mulberries, dying the corners of his mouth.

“We’ll be on our way, Sect Leader Nie. Much obliged for your help.” Wei Wuxian replied with a smile that had too much of a slight tinge of viciousness to be completely genuine.

“Oh, I can say the same to you,” Nie Huaisang replied as he fanned himself. It was pointedly obvious when he did not. “I’ll keep in touch.”

Lan Wangji said nothing, only stared down Nie Huaisang for a prolonged handful of seconds, before he turned and started to make his way out.

Mo Xuanyu ‘tapped’ Wei Wuxian’s shoulder to switch. Wei Wuxian complied. Mo Xuanyu climbed back onto Apple, patting the donkey’s neck.   A question.

Go ahead.

Should we ask Hanguang-jun if we should get rid of the Curse Mark soon?

Wei Wuxian ‘nodded.’ Yes, we should. I thought the curse mark could lead us to some other body parts, but it would be best for this body’s health to do away with it. Besides, we still have the arm to point the way.

They returned to the inn and ran a quick experiment between the pouches. Sure enough, the legs and arm had a strong affinity, but they cannot yet combine without a torso.
This poor soul was murdered in quite the terrible way. Wonder who hated him so much. Wei Wuxian commented.

Mo Xuanyu held back a flinch as flashes of a severed head covered in talisman’s nearly broke into their shared consciousness before he pulled it back. I couldn’t say.

Mm. Wei Wuxan sensed something underneath the surface. True, he had desecrated corpses aplenty in his time, but never with such obvious malice behind it, scattering the parts to the four corners. Mo Xuanyu, however… he did undertake the body relinquishing ritual… but no, Nie Huaisang manipulated him into doing that. That was not his full design. In a sad way, he was an instrument… the thought nearly made Wei Wuxian raise the temperature in their shared space, but he bit it back.

Once the pouches were soothed and stowed away, Mo Xuanyu sat down on the bed and rolled up his left trouser leg. “Hanguang-jun, could you…”

Lan Wangji nodded, and came closer until he sat beside Mo Xuanyu on the bed, helping him lift his leg up to rest in the other man’s lap. “May I removed your boot?”

Mo Xuanyu nodded at the request, but kept his gaze firmly on Lan Wangji’s hands. He could deal with this, with a constant touch, if he knew exactly where Lan Wangji’s hands were.

Lan Wangji pulled the boot off, then set it down on the ground. Once done, his finger-tips traced the necessary points on Mo Xuanyu’s skin with care, easing in energy as he did, starting from the bottom of his heel to the top of his knee.

The movements almost make Mo Xuanyu want to close his eyes and relax into the touch, but he also was set on high alert by it. It's soft, too soft and.... he can't breathe, but his breathing is the only sound in the room. The tingles of Yang energy fighting at the Yin of the Curse Mark tickle like a second touch under his skin. He bit his bottom lip, hard.

Hey, it’s okay. I’m here too, let us know if it’s too much. Wei Wuxian soothed.

After a few minutes, the Curse Mark began to dissipate, growing lighter and lighter as the malevolent aura seeped away.

“Almost done.” Lan Wangji said quietly.

Mo Xuanyu nodded again, the motion tight. He can’t find the words to speak just yet.

Sure enough, it only took a minute more, and the rest of the Curse Mark disappeared. Mo Xuanyu felt an oppressive weight lift from his bones. He flopped to the side, taking in deeper, more controlled breaths, before he snatched his boot from Lan Wangji, and leaned up to put it on himself.
“Do you always remove curse marks so gently?” Mo Xuanyu commented, allowing his hair to fall across the side of his face.

“It should be a precise process, need to be careful to do effectively.” Lan Wangji replied.

“I could feel that, but precision doesn't always mean gentle. You were gentle.”

“I don’t want to cause you pain.”

Somehow, that type of response sounded both humorous and… strangely sweet. Even though it was more for Wei Wuxian than himself, he was glad Lan Wangji truly was kind. He smiled to himself and shook his head as he finished putting on his boot, rolled down his trouser leg, and got to his feet. “Shall we continue on our search?”

During the check, the demonic arm pointed in the necessary direction to go next.

Lan Wangji nodded, and began preparations for their departure, while Mo Xuanyu did the same.

What’s with the head shaking just now? Wei Wuxian asked.

I could feel the energy moving. He could have gone faster, burned the yin all right out. He didn’t. It’s… sweet.

Yes, it is sweet. Wei Wuxian agreed, then found his perfect opening. Maybe it’s one way Lan Zhan shows he cares about you, Xuanyu.

He hardly knows me. Mo Xuanyu’s tone implied the question ‘why would he care about me?’ A disgraced cutsleeve, an unwanted bastard. Yet, he doesn’t say it. He… almost doesn’t want to know. Even if it was true, that Lan Wangji only cared about Wei Wuxian, Mo Xuanyu wasn’t sure now how to handle it.

But you’re great! Wei Wuxian objected.

I'm not. I'm really not.

You are, you really are. He pressed. Honestly, Xuanyu, despite sharing the same eyes now, I think I see more clearly than you.

And yet you're still blind about things in front of your face. Mo Xuanyu finished his side of packing and turned back to Lan Wangji. “I'm going to take down packs to have Apple carry.”

Their companion’s lips moved to a small frown, but then nodded. “I will be down soon. Have to pay for the extra day.”

Mo Xuanyu got down to Apple without much struggle. Once he was packed up, Wei Wuxian took control of their hand to pat the donkey’s head.

At least we have Lil’ Apple as our sight guide and pack animal. He joked.

Apple glared balefully at the hand, but didn’t bite.

Mo Xuanyu began to physically relax the further they got from Qinghe and traveled towards Yueyang. When they were out of sight from the town completely, and hopefully out of mind from anyone from the Nie Sect, the last bit of strain left him. The happy mood magnified Wei Wuxian’s mood, creating a strange sort of peaceful drift among their shared consciousness.

He let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, and turned to look at Lan Wangji walking beside them along the road.

“... I feel bad.” Mo Xuanyu ‘confessed’ to break the ice. Sure, they were still on the hunt for various body parts, and more… aspects of his past he wished to not dwell in were showing up, but he had to take the good and the bad, and recalled what they discussed last night, only now he was healthy and in the mood to talk more. “I don’t really have any stories that are as fun as yours and Wuxian’s.”

“ ... Not all of the stories between us are fun.” Lan Wangji confessed.

He’s right. There were quite a few times during the Sunshot Campaign where it felt like we would almost come to blows. He hated my path of cultivation.... though, it’s interesting. Wei Wuxian paused, and Mo Xuanyu could image the tilt of his head as he brought a hand to his chin. He doesn’t complain about it now, but he had gotten used to it when he visited me in Yiling.

Lan Wangji considered the basis of a fun story, and the possibility of it occurring based on their first meeting. “Is there a memory you have, with you and Jin Ling?”

“Sure, you can't get along with someone every day, but you at least have the fun stories,” Mo Xuanyu said out loud, before processing Lan Wangji’s question. He frowned, thinking back. “I... There was when Brother got Fairy for him. I helped train her.”

He gave a short story about teaching Jin Ling the commands for Fairy and how to work with her.

That was how you so easily controlled that beast! Wei Wuxian exclaimed, then shivered. Ugh, never me, not a chance.

Lan Wangji listened intently, and then considered his own training. Were his rabbits trained? … They sometimes begged for treats. It was quite a lovely memory when they did, but. “... Mm. Can’t train rabbits, or… thought this. But maybe…”

If he began early, after the kits opened their eyes and began to explore… but wait, if they adapted, they might grow intelligent enough to learn to escape. It would be just like before he built the main living area: chaos. Could one breed rabbits for intelligence, but also loyalty? He would have to discuss this with the breeding network. How did one acquire a smart rabbit, and if any of his does were especially bright…

Apple huffed and snorted at the story. He was obviously jealous.

Awh, our Lil’ Apple missed out on affection from his favorite person~ Wei Wuxian teased.

“Hey now, it was before your time.” Mo Xuanyu rubbed Apple’s head, basking in the sheltering warmth of his companion’s teasing, like sunshine against his back. It was then he recalled another memory. “Oh! Oh, maybe not so much of a misadventure as Wuxian’s first stay in Gusu, but I got to know a courtesan when I was sixteen--”

YOU WHAT?!

Lan Wangji’s thoughts of rabbit breeding immediately hopped away as he tripped and nearly fell face down on the path. It took him a few moments to compose himself. “... A courtesan?”

I told you already that I knew a courtesan. Mo Xuanyu replied to Wei Wuxian.

I thought— I thought that was a joke! You were with a courtesan at sixteen ?!

No, I was not joking. Mo Xuanyu rubbed at his temple as if to get rid of a headache. Well, so much for a funny story. Lan Wangji was obviously not in the graveyard for that discussion, though, so it was better to voice his further explanations. “He works in a brothel in Lanling. We… well. Brother hired him. He was very good at explaining, ahh, things.”

“... Jin Guangyao hired him, to help you... discuss your attraction to men.” Lan Wangji replied.

“The physical side of it.” Mo Xuanyu shrugged. “What to do, how to do it, what oil and other items would work best.”

“... Oh.” Lan Wangji’s ears turned scarlet in the daytime light, but he was also concerned. Sixteen was younger than Sizhui was now, and even with the rules on orderly conduct in the Cloud Recesses, such a right of passage sounded… odd.

... Xuanyu... you were only... a year older than Jin Ling is now. That… doesn’t that say something? It was strange for Wei Wuxian as well. If he was a teenager, he would have been crowing in cheer and teasing Mo Xuanyu to the high heavens, but as an adult, thinking about all of that, something felt… off.

Mo Xuanyu was growing frustrated. “And Brother grew up in a brothel. It’s not that extreme. Sure, I wouldn’t… I wouldn’t do that for Jin Ling but… but…” He stumbled over his own words, having to take time to find his train of thought again, and his voice came out more firm. “It wasn't a big deal. It was just a week, Shu was a very good teacher and very patient.”

… Well, that… sounds good, for a first time experience. I guess. But Wei Wuxian had his doubts. The more he learned about Jin Guangyao, the more suspicious his actions became.

“Do you wish to see him again?” Lan Wangji asked, confused.

He shrugged. “Maybe for tea, but not hiring him for anything. And that includes having sex.”

This made Lan Wangji more confused. In theory, he knew people could have sexual contact and not hold romantic attraction in the act, but… did Mo Xuanyu…? “... Okay.”

“... I don’t love him, if that’s what you’re thinking. Or have any sort of romantic thought towards him.”

Lan Wangji’s shoulders flinched at the spot-on interpretation of his thoughts. “I apologize for making assumptions.”

“No, I know the two are related, but… well, not all the time.” Mo Xuanyu replied, and decided it would be best to distract Wei Wuxian from further pressing, and the awkward turn his conversation with Lan Wangji shifted towards by sharing another thing about that week. I got a little trick off him that  haven’t gotten to use yet.

A trick?

A sex trick. Not really had anyone to do it on, so not exactly a bit loss either way.

... What’s the sex trick? I don’t want to use it-- but now I’m curious. Wei Wuxian replied, truly curious, with little pops and embers going off in the corners of their mind.

Lan Wangji, on the other hand, gave his reply. “As you say.”

“Are you using that like how I use it?” Mo Xuanyu grinned at him, which got him another pleasant ear blush, and an expression that could be construed as a pout. He then leaned back and closed his eyes, recalling the… very memorable trick, and when it was used on him.

… His arms tied loosely behind his back, the way that Shu had curled his fingers just so inside him while he was sucking just on the tip of his cock, and how the resulting roll of Mo Xuanyu's hips slid his erection more deeply down Shu’s throat as he swallowed…

Wei Wuxian gets the full force of the scene’s feeling and image, and has the sudden, indescribable feeling of being absolutely filled, and he can’t hold back a loud moan in their consciousness.

Mo Xuanyu nearly fell off Apple’s back, and Lan Wangji looked at him with concern. “I’m fine, I’m fine!”

The full flush of embarrassment coursed through Wei Wuxian. I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I... I didn’t know... the ass...? You can put things up there and it feels good...?

Mo Xuanyu turned his head to the side to hide his full-face blush. Wei Wuxian… made noises like that? That was unexpected. But, he asked a question that had a very necessary answer. Err… yes? There’s a… a space where if it’s touched can feel very good.

… Oh. Wei Wuxian’s voice was uncharacteristically soft.  

He then turned back to Lan Wangji, once more desperately trying to find other things to focus on, and nudged his arm with a finger. “You didn’t answer my question. Are you using ‘As you say’ the way I use ‘If you say so’?”

Porn books never showed that. Maybe I read the wrong porn books. Wei Wuxian mumbled.

You need to be prepped before anything can go inside there, using oil or something else wet and slick, otherwise it will hurt. Mo Xuanyu emphasized.

Oh, okay. That... that makes sense. And probably why they wouldn’t show it in porn books. Everything there is waxed in pretty words, but the whole action seems too fast for that. I... I was mistaken.

“... Maybe.” Lan Wangji replied, a terse edge to his voice, betraying his nerves. “I simply don’t know, outside... perceptions I have been taught to apply, and my own feelings. I know courtesans exist. That they have jobs and skills, and people pay for them. But…”

But he could not imagine sharing such intimacy unless it was with...

Mo Xuanyu wanted to give them both pats on the back. These two men, among the most powerful cultivators of their generation, and so… shy? It almost made him feel bad for teasing them. Almost.

Mistaken? Or just wasn’t exposed to it? Mo Xuanyu paused, before focusing back on Lan Wangji. “You do know that it’s perfectly fine to only want to be that physically intimate with someone you feel emotionally intimate with, right? You shouldn’t bend yourself into thinking some other way because someone else treats it differently.”

After all, his father sure as hell didn’t love his mother or probably many of his ‘conquests.’

“Know your boundaries, keep to them, and let others know what you expect of yourself and them.” Mo Xuanyu continued.

“I do know.” Lan Wangji’s gaze turned directly to Mo Xuanyu, eyes clear and focused. “I am sure of my feelings.”

He was sure of them possibly near twenty years at this point. They would not change. His heart, and his desires, were for Wei Wuxian.

… They were.

Both Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian paused in their thoughts, only focusing on those eyes, until he turned back to face forward. They did not notice him pay a second glance.

“... But I am glad to hear your thoughts, and your reassurance.” He added.

… Uh, Wuxian…?

Oh, your question. About porn books. Uh, I guess the latter?

Then there’s no need to feel bad about not knowing.

It was… okay, not to know? That was a first for Wei Wuxian, with anything. He was always search for more, but with this topic, he never thought about it that way. That it wasn’t his inexperience necessarily, simply what he was exposed to. Alright then.

Well, several crises averted. Mo Xuanyu began to talk out loud again. “It probably places you higher in the marriage market. After all, your potential partners won't have to worry about you heading for the brothels the moment things get to be what you're used to.”

“Repugnant.”

Mo Xuanyu hid a chuckle in his fist.

“Mn?”

“Your tone on saying “Repugnant.”

“Oh.” Lan Wangji blinked. “But it is… repugnant. Mo Xuanyu, it’s not that funny.”

“It’s funny because it’s not often that you hear someone be that honest about that habit of certain high ranking people and how common it is.”

Lan Wangji frowned deeper. “People should be. If they did, it wouldn’t happen. People rely on it for their livelihood. I shouldn’t judge them, but... will judge the unfaithful.”

“Trust me, I'm with you on that given my father…”

Lan Wangji nodded, and there is nothing but disdain in his eyes for the greed, lust, and cowardice of Jin Guangshan.

Mo Xuanyu poked his shoulder again, and smiled with understanding.

Lan Wangji lifted his finger and poked back. “Mn.”

Have you two invented your own language like the juniors?

Don't be ridiculous.

Ahhh, it begins!

Mo Xuanyu rolled his eyes. Yes, your second descent into insanity certainly begins.

Wei Wuxian went silent, before he feigned nonchalance. Oh well. If it happens it happens.

That earned him his own poke, only this time against his ‘cheek.’ You do know I’m teasing right?

Yeah, yeah I do.

That isn’t enough to convince him, and Mo Xuanyu settled his mental presence next to Wei Wuxian, solid as a mountain glacier, and poked him again.

What? Are you a child? Wei Wuxian’s tone was light.

No less of one than you.

Wei Wuxian leaned against Mo Xuanyu. So mean.

Mo Xuanyu smirked. Well, you like it, so I don’t know why you’re complaining.

I exist to complain. Wei Wuxian’s forehead nuzzled against Mo Xuanyu’s shoulder.

Ehhhhh doubt.

True, Mo Xuanyu felt the head move, and had the strange sensation that Wei Wuxian was looking straight at him. Not through him, but into him, in an odd way. I have another, very important reason to exist.

Yes . Mo Xuanyu replied. You need to live and figure out all the things that Wangji and I know that you’ve missed.

Wei Wuxian groaned theatrically. You can just tell me about that.

You’d just say that it was impossible.

I know better now.

Chapter Text

Traveling was peaceful for the next few days until Wei Wuxian began to complain about their rear getting sore from riding on Apple. They switched control, and Wei Wuxian began to walk beside Lan Wangji. That was when they started to discuss the possibilities of who and why someone desecrated the corpse. It was already all but confirmed (though Mo Xuanyu never said it outright), that Nie Huaisang originally had the arm. They made a mistake not to inquire how he found it, but that at least was assured. However, he was surprised at the appearance of the legs. If he wanted to discover who was behind this crime, he wouldn’t have knowingly closed up the tomb. 

However, what would drive the other group, and what means did they have? If they were able to smuggle the legs into the Nie Sect’s thorough search for fresh and pristine corpses to keep the saber spirits at bay. Based on Nie Huaisang’s demeanor, it made no sense to assume he would allow a traitor in his midst. Lan Wangji heard that very few Nie Sect disciples participated in tournaments or conferences. People claimed that it was because of it’s growing weakness, but the reality could be that they would not show their true might. Rather than mismanaging affairs in Qinghe, what happened was they fell back to contain their forces after Nie Mingjue’s death. The question was, why? 

“It’s someone with power.” Wei Wuxian replied. 

Lan Wangji nodded. 

Mo Xuanyu remained silent. 

They came to this conclusion just as they entered Yueyang. Lan Wangji suggested (if in actions instead of so many words) to seek out the local Sect. When Wei Wuxian saw the red flags of a liquor shop, unfurled in the breeze, he had a different idea in gathering information.

“Afterall, talking to that charlatan before helped us!” Wei Wuxian cheered. 

Lan Wangji and Mo Xuanyu, despite not sharing a body, thought ‘he just wants to drink.’

Wei Wuxian began to chat up the waiter. Lan Wangji’s loose purse strings made it easy to keep the man around, but the rest was all Wei Wuxian’s charm. At least, that was what Mo Xuanyu thought.

Things almost went wrong when Lan Wangji put the waiter’s arm in a vice grip after he tried to put it around their shoulders.

“Apologies. But I don’t like to be touched by a stranger. Even if they are about to take on my name.” Wei Wuxian soothed the conversation over as Lan Wangji walked out for some air, but Mo Xuanyu could feel the underlying flames curled protectively around him. 

“O-oh. Wait, excuse me?”

Wei Wuxian tipped the jar over as he stood up, and the waiter scrambled to get it. Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help but snicker. “I finished the jar.”

“Ah, young master, you have! I must keep my promise then. What is your surname?” 

“My surname…” Wei Wuxian cupped his chin, and then a broad smile came across his face. “... Is Mo.”
There was a flash of chill in their mind, but it was less of a blistering winter and more like an early spring breeze. He didn’t know if he should laugh or be angry at the joke because it had to be a joke. Wuxian… Wuxian, what?

The waiter readily accepted his new name, and Wei Wuxian left him an extra tip. “Make sure to watch my donkey for the rest of the day.”

“Oh, of course!”

Wei Wuxian quickly exited, finally responding. Well, I couldn’t give him “Wei.” 

No, sadly no. But why?   There was still a gentle, but continuous, pressure of fragile genuine mirth underneath his words, and the feeling made Wei Wuxian’s chest feel both heavy and light at the same time.

Well, Wei Wuxian paused. How could he word this? I don’t belong to the Mo’s, but I do belong to you, in a sense.

Are you sure it’s not the other way around?

Warmth seeped through their consciousness. Do you want to take my last name as a title? But Xuanyu, I’m only the son of a servant and a rogue cultivator. Any title I possess I have earned through my infamy.

He knew this. He didn’t care. To be wanted, to actually be wanted… 

Yes. Mo Xuanyu replied, but he let a teasing lilt come to his voice. Wei Xuanyu sounds better than Mo Xuanyu, right?

U-uh. Wei Wuxian couldn’t stop the blush that came up his cheeks. How could he say that so easily?!

… Your parents loved each other, didn’t they? 

Wait. What? What brought that up? … Yes. From what I remember of them. They were very happy together. My father left the Jiang Sect to be with my mother, and they spent their lives together happily. Going on Night Hunts, traveling from town to town... it was a good life.

It reminded him of how his new life currently was, traveling with Mo Xuanyu and Lan Wangji. Save for the body parts.

Mo Xuanyu, on the other hand, was thinking about his parents. That already makes Wei a better name than Mo. While I know my mother loved my father, I’m not all that certain he loved her back. And, well, you got a glimpse of my maternal relatives. 

He sighed in their thoughts. Hopefully, your little shopkeep can make the “Mo” name something to be proud to have. 

Wei Wuxian frowned. Well, he has to live up to you. And I do not claim him in the slightest! 

Down to me more like.

No, always up! Always!

Mo Xuanyu rolled their eyes, making Wei Wuxian ‘tsk.’ People don’t get thrown out of their sects because they’ve been paragons of virtue.

You got thrown out of the Jin Sect.

Technically they were the new chief among the great cultivation clans, but Wei Wuxian said it as if Mo Xuanyu was escorted out of an exceptionally shitty tavern.

Thrown out is thrown out. Mo Xuanyu repeated.

That route wasn’t working at all. He would have to try another way. Well, I got thrown out of the Jiang Sect. So.

And yet you still had enough honor left to build your own sect. That was what it always sounded like to Mo Xuanyu, what the Burial Mound of Yiling became. Of a sort. 

Wei Wuxian had the Burial Mound, but with what Mo Xuanyu was accused of, he had no one. I made a mistake, and things were arranged to have me thrown out. I just… 

The world was against you. Wei Wuxian replied. It was simple. People made villains all the time. Sometimes they made sense, sometimes they didn’t, but all it took was the right person to cast accusations, and then you were never free. No matter what you did, someone would find a way to get at you, and you became the villain once more. Once your name was blackened, it was difficult in the cultivation world to ever return to the light. Wei Wuxian was accustomed to the darkness, but even with his aptitude for demonic cultivation, his mind wrestled with the idea of Mo Xuanyu being forced along that path. Why him? Why did the world decide to turn so horrendously against him he searched for a vile ghoul like ‘the Yiling Patriarch?’ 

I don’t know what I did. Mo Xuanyu said softly, more a whisper to himself as Wei Wuxian. A phrase he said, over and over. 

Wei Wuxian felt a forehead press against his back. He reached back, his hand covering the ‘hand’ on his shoulder. Then it’s not your fault. You can’t blame yourself for it if they didn’t even tell you.

But it had to be something I did. Otherwise… Mo Xuanyu froze and pressed his head harder against Wei Wuxian as if he was a shield against his awful thoughts. 

Otherwise what? 

I couldn’t bear it. Mo Xuanyu confessed. To be cast aside for no reason except that he was there. 

Well, since you are a Wei now, you wouldn’t have to bear it alone. 

The pressure shifted, and Wei Wuxian held back a gasp as arms circled his waist. Mo Xuanyu was hugging him from behind. Mo Xuanyu felt… comfort, from doing this? 

Xuanyu, you honor me. Wei Wuxian replied, very little teasing remained, only warmth. 

With a final goodbye to Apple to keep him from getting anxious, the three of them set out to the Yueyang Chang Sect’s ruin. Since Mo Xuanyu currently didn’t want to speak, only ‘cling’ to Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji filled him in on the details. The information was surprising. How this all occurred, but also how it related to him on two different sides, with Xue Yang, a demonic cultivator and mass murderer,  and Xiao Xingchen, a student of Baoshan Sanren, just like his mother. 

After they discussed this, the confirmed knowledge that it wasn’t just his notes that were uncovered, but one half of that amulet, it unnerved him. It also, strangely, made him feel melancholic. 

“... Lan Zhan?”

“Mn.”

Wei Wuxian looked down at the ground, watching one step after the other. “After this body part finding business is over... could you take us to Yiling?” 

He knew, in his heart, no one would be there. All that would be left were ghosts, and he doubted they would be willing to speak to him. Granny, aunties, uncles… would a little one be among them, too? Would this heart be able to take it, confirming his suspicions? 

Wei Wuxian felt the edge of a sleeve brushed at his fingertips, and he turned to see Lan Wangji, slowing his pace, to walk beside them. “ I will.”

Wei Wuxian tilted his head, to look up. Huh, Mo Xuanyu was right. The sun hitting against Lan Wangji’s hair was a wondrous sight. But he knew that wasn’t the reason for the lightness in his chest. As it seemed, despite how limited with his words he could be, this man could be relied on. It was a long while since either he or Mo Xuanyu could depend on someone. 

“Thank you.” Wei Wuxian replied, holding onto Lan Wangji’s sleeve as they walked in step. 

If Mo Xuanyu had been silent as they walked up to the Chang Estate, the icy chill that emanated from him after Lan Wangji fought the masked grave digger pronounced that silence all the more. They had come on the Chang Estate not quite knowing what they were going to expect, even with what they had learned from the locals. The banging of the graves had startled all of them with the ferocity of the sound. Even more was the figure wrapped up in anonymous clothing, carrying a tarp over their shoulder. 

The resulting fight had been somewhat lopsided. Lan Wangji won, but he was also unencumbered by anything but his sword. The gravedigger had his tarp on one shoulder, and at times it seemed that he was staring at Wei Wuxian -- or more specifically, the body Wei Wuxian was in -- rather than concentrating on the fight. There was a moment where everything had come together just so where the tarp came into Wei Wuxian’s possession, and the Gravedigger had to retreat with a teleportation talisman. 

Xuanyu, Are you alright? Wei Wuxian had asked as they unwrapped the tarp.  Mo Xuanyu couldn’t find an answer. 

Instead, he settled for the immediate situation. Do we think this torso matches the limbs we have? 

It was connected to fake limbs to make it think it had its limbs, and the musculature is the same. And I feel the pouches shaking from its proximity… you should, too. 

Mo Xuanyu had.

Does this have to do with Daozhang Xiao and Xue Yang? 

Neither of them would know Hanguang-jun’s fighting style. Mo Xuanyu objected. 

Wei Wuxian could not object to that reasoning, not when it was so obvious. But, as expected by all three of them, when he voiced this out loud, it was immediately rejected. 

“No.” Lan Wangji’s voice was firm. “Brother and uncle wouldn’t be involved.”

Agreed. No one directly from the Lan clan is involved. Mo Xuanyu’s affirmation was soft, as if he was picking out words with great care. 

Have an idea who is? Asked Wei Wuxian.

I am unable to say.

Xuanyu, an entire clan was wiped out.

The clan being wiped out was Xue Yang , yes. Mo Xuanyu said that with an effect of brushing the fact aside as common knowledge. But anything else I am unable to speak.

More and more of the promises that Mo Xuanyu had made were becoming annoying. Wei Wuxian didn’t know why Mo Xuanyu bothered to keep them at all, especially to such unworthy people in the Jin Sect. … Fine.  

Returning to the shop, all of them were in a dour, snappy mood. 

Mo Xuanyu’s voice cut across their mental space like an icy knife. At least note that I am unable to speak, not that I’m unwilling to speak.

Oh, so you're so if you talk you will bite your tongue off?

I might as well be. I’m a reportedly insane, shameless bastard who has no honor who was thrown out of his sect after being accused of crimes too horrible to speak of. My promises are all I have. If Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, he could almost see Mo Xuanyu’s spirit clench his fists. How could I even call myself a person if I didn’t keep my promises?

Make promises to better people. That was what Wei Wuxian wanted to shout into Mo Xuanyu’s face. Make promises with people who were worthy of your dedication and stubbornness. Whatever. It’s your choice. I want to drink.

Mo Xuanyu’s voice was a little more distant as he next spoke. Speaking of promises... are we going to call Wen Ning soon?

Don’t worry. I have a plan. Wei Wuxian gave Lan Wangji a big grin, and most of it he honestly felt. “Hey, Lan Zhan. Why don’t you have a drink with us?”

“... En.”

 More than a little dubious, Mo Xuanyu asked, Lan Wangji is a big guy, you sure you can drink him under the table?

The Lan Sect never imbibe. I feel confident!  

Wei Wuxian’s confidence was rewarded almost immediately. Lan Wangji took a single cup, drank from it, and fell asleep upon its completion. 

... That man is ridiculous.

Laughter bubbled up and out of Wei Wuxian’s chest. Indeed he is. But, can’t leave him here. Who knows who will come over. I will have to carry him.

Be sure to take off his boots if you’re putting him to bed.

Yes, Yes. Ah, Mo Xuanyu was such a little hen, looking after Lan Wangji like he was a big fluffy chick. That image sustained Wei Wuxian’s buoyancy as he half walked-half carried Lan Wangji up to the room they had rented and put him in the bed. Doing as he was told, Wei Wuxian did indeed remove Lan Wangji’s boots, as well as setting his guqin down, and slung Bichen over his back. He tucked the blanket up to Lan Wangji’s chin. That was when he couldn’t help but stop and admire the face before him in the lantern light. Lan Wangji’s eyelashes were so long. They brushed the top of his cheekbones. Could he touch them without waking Lan Wangji? Maybe later. 

Mo Xuanyu didn’t speak up until they were outside. There’s going to be nails in his head. Just behind his temples.

  ... How did they get there?

Xue Yang again. Mo Xuanyu’s voice was distant, still, and far more clinical like he was summarizing academic notes. He came up with the nails as a control mechanism. The Jin Sect wanted the power of the Ghost General at their beck and call, but he would not follow any order. Even with the nails though, it merely deadened everything. Wen Ning still would not follow. And in my follow up research, I could not find anything that would change things one way or another.

Anger simmered throughout Wei Wuxian like lava under the earth. ... Thank you for explaining. He put that anger into song, playing his flute in a random angry melody to summon Wen Ning to them.

You already knew he was around. I can skirt my promise related to him that says I cannot talk about Wen Ning to people who don’t know.

Perhaps Mo Xuanyu would have said more, but out of the misty evening came Wen Ning. 

His steps shuffled more than walked, and his eyes were not focused, could not focus, on the here and now, even as he was aware enough to follow the melody and stop just in front of them. 

“...” Wei Wuxian gave a firm whistle from the flute that told Wen Ning to lower his head, and he extracted the nails.

“Aaaahh...” 

“I know, my friend. But you have to be quiet, please.” Wei Wuxian replied calmly, keeping his voice even. If he got agitated, Wen Ning would grow even more so. 

Quickly, please. I don't know what effects will happen. He's had them in for years.

“Do you want to do this?” Wei Wuxian fired back, and with a quick but powerful yank, he removed the second nail. Wen Ning’s head immediately fell forward, lopping forward as if he had fallen asleep. Wei Wuxian looked at them in his hands and knowing their reason for existence filled him with disgust. 

Keep them. Mo Xuanyu spoke up. The nails, just in case.

“I was going to.” Wei Wuxian replied roughly, shoving them into a spare pouch.

Good. Mo Xuanyu half-expected Wen Ning to flip out for a second and having to switch to… what? Shield Wei Wuxian? That didn’t make sense. But, he was relieved that he didn't. He should come back to himself, but because of how long it's been... I don't know when.

“Okay.” Wei Wuxian reached up to right Wen Ning’s hair back into place for him.

Gods, he looked to be in so much pain…

“... Let’s get these chains off of him.” Wei Wuxian moved to grab Bichen from where he had placed it across his back, only to hear the sound of footsteps. He turned around to find Lan Wangji standing there, face unreadable as the smooth surface of polished jade. “Lan Zhan?” 

“...”

“Lan Zhan, I- Look, I’m sorry about taking Bichen, but I need to—“ 

Lan Wangi walked over and pushed Wen Ning down. “Go away!”

The mood in the clearing immediately shifted. 

Hanguang-Jun? ... Wasn't he passed out? After a moment’s pause, taking him in, he tapped Wei Wuxian on his figurative shoulder. Do you know how to handle him like this?

Wei Wuxian is still shocked, taking in the realization that the Hanguang-jun, the Lan Wangji, was drunk. ... He put his boots on the wrong way... how cute.  

  Wen Ning struggled to get back up, face unchanged, but an air of confusion surrounding him. Lan Wangji pushed him back down. 

He turned back to them, voice rough. “Send him away.” 

“... Huh? Well, if you say so,” Wei Wuxian put the bamboo flute to his lips, and began to play, only to immediately feel a pull that disrupted the rhythm. He looked up to see Lan Wangji, his face pained, his fingertips clutching to his sleeve, but making no skin contact. He looked like an overgrown child! “Hanguang-jun?”

“Don’t play for him.”

... I have no idea how to handle him like this. Wei Wuxian admitted.

Mo Xuanyu sighed and switched control. "Hanguang-jun? Hanguang-jun, we can't tell him to go away if we can't play. Will you let us play just a little bit?"

“...” Lan Wangji took in the information, looking like he wanted to object. “... Different song.” 

… I played the song again, didn’t I. Wei Wuxian hadn’t even realized! 

"Okay. I'll make sure Wuxian plays a different song." 

They switched back. Afraid so. Try to do something different. Please?

“...Mn. But-“

“Young Master Wei...” Wen Ning mumbled, but then his lips shut once he heard the few sharp notes Wei Wuxian made on his flute and was off running again.

However, Lan Wangji, for some strange reason, still held onto his sleeve! 

“Lan Zhan, we both did what you requested, why do you look like you want to cry?” Wei Wuxian teased, moving so the flute tapped Lan Wangji under his chin. He didn’t think he did, of course. His expression was still too rigid for that. 

The tightness around his mouth, however, slipped. “... Both, here.”’

Maybe he means that you’re both here? Either way, we should go inside.

“Yeah, you’re right...” Wei Wuxian said aloud, and moved to remove the flute, before Lan Wangji’s free hand moved up, curling his fingers around the instrument. The contrast between the bamboo and his long fingers.

“Won’t cry.” His mouth faintly, very faintly formed a pout, then let go. 

Wei Wuxian’s heart rate kicked up. What- what gives?! 

He gave a small cough, before talking calmly. “Yes, you won’t cry. You’re very strong, but now that he’s gone, we should go back inside, okay?” 

“Mn.” 

Wei Wuxian went back in, but Lan Wangji still held onto his sleeves. He’s acting so childish right now... hm; I have an idea. 

“... Say, Hanguang-Jun, I have questions. Can you answer them?”

“En.”

Well, that was easy. “How will I know you’re telling the truth? Even like this, your face doesn’t give you away.” 

“...” He raises his hand, palm open, slightly unsteady. “... Okay?” 

“Huh?”

Mo Xuanyu took control of one of their arms and placed their hand in Lan Wangji’s offered one. Wuxian, do you mind if I handle him for a bit? You’ll get your questions answered.

By all means. It seems you’re better suited to the living than I am... I didn’t mean for it to come out like that. I’m sorry. He switched completely. 

Once given, Lan Wangji slowly pulled their hand up, holding it against his chest. The contact made it beat faster. “Can tell, by the heartbeats.” 

... Oh.

The faster heartbeat matched their own. Mo Xuanyu took a step forward, then a second. “I’d be able to tell better if I can hear them, can’t I?” He said, now close enough that his breath ghosted on the back of his hand. He laid his head on Lan Wangji’s chest, letting himself pretend that it really was him that the other man wanted to listen close to those pulses that could tell the truth under Lan Wangji’s stoic face.

When Mo Xuanyu rested his head, Lan Wangji’s free hand gripped tightly into a fit, stopping himself from making any sudden movements. 

“Your heart’s beating fast, Hanguang-jun. Very fast.”

“... En.” His voice was soft, and if Mo Xuanyu looked up, he would see his ears and neck had gone a flushed pink.

There are a lot of tangled up emotions in the shared space now. Wei Wuxian wasn’t speaking, but Mo Xuanyu had the distinct sensation of wanting to pull himself closer while also step away, a divisive feeling.

Mo Xuanyu decided for Wei Wuxian, forcing his spirit to come closer. This was for him, after all. 

“Come on, let’s go back inside. Your shoes are on wrong, and Wei Wuxian still has some questions.”

Alarm and joy collided. Even as his head rested, Mo Xuanyu would feel something like a head pressing into his own chest. Mo Xuanyu felt like he needed to catch his breath, but he knew it wasn’t him who needed it. 

Xuanyu, please. His voice was small, his tone like a scared child’s. 

“... En.” He agreed, but he didn’t move away. He waited for Mo Xuanyu to do so first.

I know you're mad at me, but let me do this for you.

He would do almost anything for Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. They were his friends.

He could wish for something more, but wishing did not make things so, it just made them harder to let go of. 

Mo Xuanyu moved Lan Wangji's hand so that they were holding hands. "This is okay. I remember where the room is too." He spoke like he was talking to a young child, trying to get them to go back down for a nap, and pulling them along by a hand.

This wasn’t for him. This wasn’t meant for him, why didn’t Mo Xuanyu realize that? ... Do what you will.  

Lan Wangji held his hand back, carefully. He didn’t want to scare him, to ruin the moment, even if his mind was foggy. 

Once they reached the room, Lan Wangji remained standing, holding Mo Xuanyu’s hands.

"Sit."

Lan Wangji sat.

Mo Xuanyu took off Lan Wangji's boots.

"Okay, Wuxian, what questions do you have?"

Mo Xuanyu echoed what Wei Wuxian told him out loud.

“Did you have a wife?” He asked. 

Lan Wangji blinked. “... No?”

“But Sizhui is your child.”

“En.” He nodded. 

“... Fostered?” Mo Xuanyu assumed.

“En.”

“Oh, from where?” 

“... Can’t say. Need to protect him.”

Well, that was interesting. Lan Wangji kept the origins of Lan Sizhui a secret. Wei Wuxian wondered how well that went with Lan Qiren. 

Ohoho... so, Lan Zhan, you mentioned that for someone to catch your eye physically there has to be an emotional bond. Any candidates? 

Mo Xuanyu re-phrased that question less embarrassingly, then repeated out loud all of the suggested names. The only stumbling one was when they pointed at themselves. 

"... What about this one?"

Lan Wangji’s voice was clear. “Want.”

Huh? What does that even mean? Could it... oh! We still have Bichen!

"You want your sword?" Mo Xuanyu pulled Bichen off their back and held it out to Lan Wangji. He had his own idea, even if he went along with Wei Wuxian’s suggestion. Lan Wangji wanted Wuxian. It was as simple as that.

“I want,” Lan Wangji sat up, reaching for his sleeve again, looking directly at his face. “... I want.”

"Hanguang-jun…” Mo Xuanyu gulped. “Hanguang-jun, you have a scary face being that insistent." 

He didn't, but Mo Xuanyu didn't know what else to say. It was like when Lan Wangji was helping to keep the Curse Mark to a manageable size and remove the pain enough for Mo Xuanyu to walk on it. The intensity seared down the very soul of them.

He wants you. Mo Xuanyu told Wei Wuxian.

That’s not it. He is talking to you, isn’t he?

At the words ‘scary face,’ Lan Wangji froze. He pulled his hands back and used them to shield his face from view.

He can't be talking about me. Mo Xuanyu insisted to Wei Wuxian. I'm in control, but he keeps saying “I Want,” and he's not talking about his sword.

Xuanyu got up and leaned Bichen against a wall where it wouldn't get knocked over or tossed about. He returned, sitting closer, and pulled down Wangji's hands. "I'm sorry. I wasn't scared, but you're a very intense guy, Hanguang-jun."

And you immediately think he’s talking about me? Xuanyu, sometimes I think you willfully blind yourself to the obvious.

The relief that he felt that he truly wasn’t scary was palpable: the thick face he had softened, his eyes were bright. “...Mn.” 

Lan Wangji realized then how late it was, and he felt his eyes grow heavy again. “... Stay?” 

He bought two rooms for the night— 

“Both... stay.”

Mo Xuanyu’s gaze softened. "We'll stay. I'll sit right here while you fall asleep."

You're the one he knows better. The one that has that song. He added to Wei Wuxian.

Lan Wangji nodded, and lowered himself onto the bed, however, he didn’t let go of Mo Xuanyu’s hands, and instead of sleeping his regular way: front up, it was more like he fell on his side, half of his legs dangling off the side. 

When Lan Wangji was fully asleep, Wei Wuxian spoke once more. May I have control for a bit? Just a few minutes.

Take as long as you need.

He shifted them, letting Wei Wuxian have control again. 

Be sure to push his legs on the bed…

I know, I know. I didn’t forget!

Wei Wuxian readjusted Lan Wangji to his usual position on the bed. He then spent another moment staring at his face... his hand raised, but stalled, and instead went to the flute tucked into his belt. He began to hum a tune, then began to play. Lan Wangji’s face relaxed further. 

I suppose I should only play the song for you two, now.

I think he'd like that. It's a beautiful song. Back before we met with Sect Leader Nie, he mentioned that he had a hard time keeping control when you played it. It's why he grabbed us. Or rather, you. 

Embarrassment made his face flush. N-not for me in how I know you are making it sound! I... we were... 

He gave a brief rundown of what occurred in the cave, expecting it to solve the issue. 

Dunce. But Mo Xuanyu refused to let it go. Even if it wasn't like that at the start, now? It certainly is. He sounds like a good companion.

He was, he is, even though Wei Wuxian acted like such a brat. He laid down on the bed, but turned away from Lan Wangji, trying to control his heart rate. He didn’t play it for me afterward. And he wouldn’t tell me that it was his song… Let’s go to sleep now.

Wei Wuxian settled, settling on one side of the bed, far enough away not to risk them overlapping. At least, he assumed.

But Mo Xuanyu wasn’t ready to sleep. What did you mean earlier, by "you're better suited with the living?"

I meant the exact thing. I can charm people, I can hold a conversation for as long as I need to, but you... empathize.

Wei Wuxian readjusted their position, and pulled out the ribbon in their hair, letting it fall free against the mattress so that he could twist it between his fingers. You can go much deeper with them than I can, regularly. It’s far easier for me to empathize with ghosts, to get to their essence because there are no more walls between them and me... maybe it’s even more like that now, since... I’m technically alive, but technically dead, too. That’s just how I see it.

Ghosts were once living people, you know. Mo Xuanyu stated the obvious, preventing him from wallowing. Don't be so hard on yourself. The living are horrid anyway except for a handful of very select individuals, such as your Hanguang-jun.

It’s not me being hard on myself, Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes. He would be a terrible founder of demonic cultivation if he couldn’t speak to the dead! Just stating a difference. And he is not ‘mine.’

Okay, ‘our,’ but he's more yours than mine. Yes, there is a difference, but... I'm supposed to be dead, remember. And I notice that you didn't refute that the living are horrible.

Well, they are, in a lot of ways. I agree with the sentiment. But don’t say you’re supposed to be dead, I don’t like it: you’re not dead, you’ve never been dead, so you’re alive. Leave the supposes out of it. And you’re going to live for a very, very long time now if I have any say in it, and I’m going to make sure you meet more people like Lan Zhan, so you are entirely surrounded by good people. Save for me, but I’m an exception.

His thoughts were growing more disjointed as he became more tired.

No. You're one of the best, Wuxian. Now and always.

... I wouldn’t want to share a body with anyone else but you. Wei Wuxian confessed.

Same. Now, sleep.

He fell asleep without any more fuss.

Chapter Text

There was another room connected to the Blooming Garden, the immediate quarters for the current Sect Leader. Perhaps it was once used as a servant’s room, or for storage, but it was, overall, a well-kept secret. And now, he would know about it. 

With the turn of a key, the door opened, and a gentle hand motioned him to go through. Inside was a well-used laboratory, with bookshelves and notes, as well as various odds and ends of tinkering strewn about. In the center was a boy, a few years older than him, wearing Jin Sect disciple robes, and a black glove on the one hand. 

”A-Yu, here is where you will be working. However, there is someone else who also uses this space.” 

The boy smiled and bowed.

“Xue Yang, courtesy name Chengmei.”

“Ah, um,” Mo Xuanyu gave a belated bow. “Mo Yi, courtesy name Xuanyu. It’s, ah, a pleasure.”

Somehow, the boy’s smile grew, enough for Mo Xuanyu to see how sharp his canines were. “The pleasure is all mine.”

A comforting hand is placed on Mo Xuanyu shoulder when he moved back from his bow. ”Mo Xuanyu will be in charge of reading and maintaining the archive, noting interesting discoveries, and can assist you if necessary.”

“Ohh, an assistant, huh? My very own assistant.”

“I’m sure we’ll work well together.” 

Placate placate or he’ll swallow me whole--

“Mm!” 

It took three days until Mo Xuanyu would begin to experience small, but especially nasty pranks. His notes were torn or shoved in crevices hard for him to reach. His tea was tampered with, turning red and coagulating like blood just as it touched his lips. He even found a dead bird, left right in front of his door.

All of this, he endures. Endures more, endures. He doesn’t complain. But a seed of resentment grows and grows within his being, nurtured and watered by true fear. 

Xue Yang did all of this while still smiling, still working, still eating his candy, still laughing in a way that Mo Xuanyu knew was at his expense. Until, one day--

“Ahhh, Mo Xuanyu, have you ever seen a fierce corpse before?”

“... Not directly, no.”

“Huuuhhh, how odd.” Xue Yang replied, before standing up from his seat and making the chair legs screech across the floor. “Let this shixiong give you a lesson.” 

Mo Xuanyu is led to another new room. Many passageways and sharp turns shelter this one. Once they reached it, he almost choked on the amount of yin energy that seeped through the space. He was growing more used to resentful powers, but this was beyond what he has physically experienced thus far. 

It was a cell. One prisoner inside. 

At least, Mo Xuanyu assumed it was a prisoner. It was hard to tell, when the body hardly moved and was bound by chains on both his wrists and ankles and covered in paper charms.

Xue Yang stepped into the space with the confidence of one that had been in there many times before. 

“Some of these suppression talismans are your work, aren’t they? Didn’t you know what they were used for?”

Mo Xuanyu remained silent.

“Another success from our founder’s work.” Xue Yang walked around the bound being, skipping over the chains that bound him to separate sides of the wall, before settling behind him. He, in a strangely gentle gesture, curled his fingers into the figure’s long and unkempt hair, before violently yanking up, exposing his face. “Too bad he can’t be reasoned with. Undying devotion is so frustrating when you aren’t the recipient. And even then... haha!”

Mo Xuanyu can’t say anything. Whenever Xue Yang looked back at him, he trained his eyes to the floor. He felt that Xue Yang’s words were pointed in different directions than what was on the surface.

Xue Yang, meanwhile, continued his lecture. “So, I had to think up something to keep the Ghost General pleasant.” On finger pointed to a side of his head. In the dim light, Mo Xuanyu could barely make out the end of a long, thin needle.  “The process was daunting, but your dear brother gave me some test subjects for practice.”

Finally, Mo Xuanyu found his voice. “Test... test subjects?”

Xue Yang released the fierce corpse’s-- the Ghost General’s-- Wen Ning’s head, allowing it to fall forward again, and walked back to Mo Xuanyu with his hands folded behind his back. “Mmhm. You need to aim for two clear points in the brain to make it work. It allows the body to be controlled by people like us— well, me, and it prevents the corpse from gaining access to the less instinct-base areas within the mind.” 

Suddenly he reached out and pointed a finger to a spot just under Mo Xuanyu’s ear. “For example. if I hit here, your body from the chest down would be completely paralyzed.”

Mo Xuanyu doesn’t move. He can’t move, it’s as if he’s already been stabbed in that spot. It takes more courage than he actually has to respond. “... Why are you telling me this?”

“Easy,” Xue Yang replied. “So you know how worthless you are compared to me.”

Mo Xuanyu lifted his head, his eyes flashed with anger, hinting at a faint rim of red around the silver pupils. “My brother. Trusts me.”

“Oh, you do have some pride!” Xue Yang laughed. “Well then, let’s say that he does. He trusts you. He trusts that you’re loyal. That you will do your job without complaint, but, does he think you’re capable? Of course not.”

“I don't have to prove that to you.”

“As if you could. Just stay out of my way.” 

Mo Xuanyu glared and stubbornly refused to move. 

Xue Yang shrugged. “I’ll leave you here for independent study. Here, you can pretend whatever your heart desires. Like someone here caring for what you say.” 

He kept still until he could no longer hear Xue Yang’s footsteps, then walked to Wen Ning. 

“...”

He touched his head, and felt where the nails were, as Wen Ning continued to stare vacantly back at him. Still, unseeing, trapped without any way to scream. 

I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry… 

Mo Xuanyu awoke and immediately tumbled off the bed, crashing to the floor. He clutched his head to rub at the new ache there. His whole body ached, there was ringing in between his ears that wouldn’t go away. 

Ow ow ow…!

Ow ow ow is right. What a rude awakening! Wei Wuxian’s voice slid through the ringing but did nothing else. 

Mo Xuanyu still felt his mind and body locked in panic, a laughter that wasn’t there and a screaming that wasn’t there, but they were they were--

… Xuanyu? Wei Wuxian called out again. 

Having his name called settled him a little. This panic attack was not as intense as the one on Dafan Mountain, but his breath came out in quick pants, trying to gulp down as much air as he could before his head was forced back down into the dark waters of his thoughts. 

Noth-- it’s nothing.

His body shifted, reaching towards the bed.

I’ll wake up Lan Zhan. Take deep breaths.

It’s nothing.

Are you sure—

“It. Is. Nothing.” He hissed out through his teeth. Nobody knew. Nobody could know. It had to be shoved deep down locked away--

Wei Wuxian was silent, only offering the phantom touch of a hand on his shoulder that Mo Xuanyu flinched away from. After the flinch, it disappeared. It took a few more minutes for Mo Xuanyu to regulate his breathing, but soon enough, his desperate gasps evened out. 

… Just a nightmare. Mo Xuanyu replied. He had plenty of those, nearly every night, but this was one that hit especially hard. Was it because of the story surrounding Yueyang, or was it meeting Wen Ning again? It was difficult to say. 

It sounds like some nightmare. Wei Wuxian replied, his tone gentle. Want to talk?

Mo Xuanyu didn’t especially want to. Xue Yang was directly tied to the Jin Sect, to his past, but it would only make Wei Wuxian more suspicious.  ... I know Xue Yang.

Yeah, I figured. You were both in the Jin Sect.

Mo Xuanyu nodded. We... worked together.

On my notes, or the Stygian Tiger?

Your notes. Mo Xuanyu wasn’t allowed to touch the fractured piece or the duplicate that was eventually created. And he was the one that showed me Wen Ning. I, I remembered. 

... It doesn’t sound like you recalled a pleasant interaction.

He shook his head. No, not really but... I was... just jealous. It was just jealousy.

Jealousy? Wei Wuxian’s voice took on a note of confusion. Of Xue Yang? Why?

I didn't like him. We both competed for brother's attention. It... that was all it was.

How much Mo Xuanyu asserted his feelings were only jealousy was growing more unnerving. Were you afraid of him? Did he do something to you?

Nothing that could be traced back to him.

Well, then. Wei Wuxian replied. Even this early, a blaze began to grow around their mind, controlled, but only just. More reason to be cautious as we continue.

... Brother said it was just jealousy.

It sounds like he threatened you. That’s 'not just jealousy.' Wei Wuxian insisted. Besides, we have a score to settle, for what he did to Wen Ning, if we do encounter him on our travels.

There is the sound of a body shifting on the bed, a small exhale of breath, so very different from the panicked pitch of Mo Xuanyu before. 

Mo Xuanyu craned his neck up and scrambled to his feet, not wanting to be found on the ground. However, it was a false alarm. 

Lan Wangji, forehead ribbon slightly askew, his robe parting just enough to show the start of the sunburst brand on his chest. He had turned from his previous stationary sleeping position, one hand unconsciously reaching out, his taciturn expression in sleep turning quizzical. 

… Mo Xuanyu spent an unfortunate amount of time staring at the scene. He would blame it on Wei Wuxian later. He sighed when he finally turned away. We should get breakfast. 

Yeah. Help ease him through his hangover. Wei Wuxian replied. Know where he put the bag?

Under the bed, near the head of it. 

Really? Wei Wuxian shifted into control, walking to the other side of the bed. Sure enough, it was there. ... Huh. Well, I shouldn’t be surprised. Lan Zhan did know how to hide alcohol.  

He took out the necessary amount, before, unable to help himself, and looked back down at LWJ with a soft expression. ... He’s going to have a terrible hangover.

Wei Wuxian then leaned down and righted his robes, then headed out the door. We’ll ask them to bring a bath up for him. That should help.

Mo Xuanyu began to recall what he heard worked best for a hangover. Meaty food. That will help.

“Haha, I think you’re speaking more for our body’s benefit. But, meaty food it is--”

WEI WUXIAN TAKE THAT BACK.

“Wait, what did I say?!” 

“‘Speaking more for our body's benefit’ we don't need his dick now--

Wei Wuxian verbally squawked as he rushed to defend himself. That was not what he meant at all! Mo Xuanyu had his head in the gutter! THAT WASN’T A DICK— WAIT! XUANYU, THEN YOU JUST SAID LAN ZHAN NEEDS A GOOD—!

I DID NOT! I DID NOT AND YOU KNOW IT!

YOU DID!! YOU CAN’T TAKE IT BACK YOU DID!!!

I…! Mo Xuanyu made a noise that Wei Wuxian imagined Mo Xuanyu would make crossing his arms and looking away from him with his nose turned up. You are a child, and I am going to ignore you.

“Wha-- I-” Wei Wuxian then laughed and forgot what he wanted to say. He was too confused, embarrassed, and oddly delighted to say anything else. Really, Mo Xuanyu talked a big game, but he was adorable. 

He ordered a bath for Lan Wangji, Checked up on and fed Apple, then began to explore the morning market, picking up many snacks along the way. 

Mo Xuanyu was still brooding after they had found a good variety of snacks. That Wei Wuxian could not abide, not while Mo Xuanyu was doing a bad job of hiding that he was feeling down, and offering no easy ways to alleviate his dour mood. 

Hey, Xuanyu, switch tongues with me so you can taste this!

What? There were a few moments where Wei Wuxian could feel the full force of Mo Xuanyu’s incomprehension. Oh, oh, yes.  

Wei Wuxian ate the berries in his hand, and the sensation of chewing and swallowing is independent of his own will was strange, to say the least. ...Good?

Mhmm.  

Goodness, what would it take to get a reaction out of him today? The sound of paper hitting dirt distracted Wei Wuxian, focusing now on what Mo Xuanyu had been distracted by. A white kite had fallen to the ground, both it’s front and back were emblazoned with a crude sunburst design. Surrounding it was a gaggle of children, arguing amongst themselves. 

Oh! Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but smile and inch his way closer to the children. They’re playing Sunshot Campaign.

It’s turned into a children’s game? If Mo Xuanyu had been in control, his nose would have wrinkled in thought. I guess enough time has passed…

Yueyang isn’t far from Qishan. During the Sunshot campaign, the townsfolk here must have suffered, which brought in traditions like this. Like seeing a mirage, Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but to superimpose himself and Jiang Cheng over the playing children. They had often also done games with shooting kites, both for fun and for training. It was quite different than acting out as heroes from stories, let alone heroes within a person’s lifetime. Plenty of territories have taken up those traditions. Isn’t a play of Houyi shooting nine of the ten suns especially popular in Lanling?

A play becoming popular again because it reflects the current political climate is a bit different than playing a game. 

Tradition, tradition, it still reflects a tradition!  

But there were big heroes such as yourself for kids to emulate.

Wei Wuxian snorted. Some hero I am: after the Sunshot Campaign, I was an unrepentant Villain that had to be taken down by the remaining four great Sects. 

He concentrated again on the playing children. One of them had a little stick that he had been using as a flute to be “Wei Wuxian” and was starting to harassing the small versions of “Chifeng-zun,” “Lianfang-zun,” “Jiang Cheng,” and “Jin Zixuan.”

Look, they’re arguing on who should be the leader since the sun fell down without anyone shooting it. Why don’t they pick the kid playing Lianfang-zun?

Still, my hero. Mo Xuanyu had been feeling the glimmer of a warm feeling, but the mention of his brother dashed the small flame. Probably because the method of his heroics, while needed, were not exactly commendable

Wei Wuxian had tried to hold onto the flame of emotion; it was a rare period that Xuanyu felt honestly good about himself, but even he couldn’t keep it. Besides… he had controlled thousands of corpses. 

The little “Wei Wuxian” knocked “Jin ZiXuan” on the head with his flute. The true one chuckled. See? Look at this rascal, so full of himself. You wouldn’t want a guy like that to be a leader.

No, but he makes a good friend.

Wei Wuxian tilted his head, and sent through the feeling of leaning his head against Mo Xuanyu’s shoulder. He really should object to that designation. All of his friends were dead, undead, or hated him. That didn’t really say much in terms of how good of a friend he was. But… this was a new life, a new start. Could he accept that? And the feeling inspired by Mo Xuanyu calling him his friend, how could he object to hearing that? I’m glad my lovely friend Xuanyu believes me to be that.

There was a fizzy feeling against and between their souls that Wei Wuxian had learned was the spiritual version of Mo Xuanyu blushing. Who then tried to distract away from the compliment. Why don’t you help them out, all-knowing elder?

I will need a tongue back first.

A small argument, evidently tied with how “Wei Wuxian” was treating them, arose between “Wei Wuxian” and “Jiang Cheng.” They were near coming to blows when another child, with a little grey cape for “The Ghost General,” attempted to intervene and stop the fight. Ahh, goodness these children were very much in character. It’d probably be best not to say how the fight between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng actually ended. 

Wei Wuxian hailed the group of children. “Excuse me, young cultivators! I see you don’t have anyone from the Gusu Lan Sect. Why don’t they be leader?” 

“He’s over there!” “Wei Wuxian” pointed to a nearby tree.

Sure enough, a little ways off was a kid with some white cloth tied around his forehead, playing as “Hanguang-jun,” determinedly remained silent. He stepped forward and nodded. 

“... Un.” 

Oh no. Ohhhh nooooooooo. The little “Lan Zhan” was so cute. Too cute. 

Mo Xuanyu laughed, his spirit like a gentle spring wind. Ask about Zewu-jun.

“And Zewu-jun?” Wei Wuxian was quick to oblige his head mate. 

The little “Lianfang-zun”’s eyes sparkled before he ran to the flower stall they were playing in front of “Er-ge!”

He pulled out an older child, perhaps closer to twelve years old, to show off to Wei Wuxian. The older child smiled apologetically. On the side, the little “Ghost General” blushed and hid behind the little “Wei Wuxian.” 

“This is Zewu-Jun!” said the little “Lianfang-zun.” “First in both skill and beauty of the cultivating gentlemen, better than Jin Zixuan by far!” 

“Hey! I’m the one who’s actually related to you!” the small “Jin Zixuan” said, hands on his hips. 

“Zewu-jun” hid a grimace under a gentle smile. “I’m glad everyone is having fun, but it’s not nice to bother people...”

“Not a bother at all, Zewu-Jun.” The true Wei Wuxian waved a hand to brush aside the politeness. “May I ask, do you run the flower stall over there?” 

Whatever the young flower seller was expecting, an adult indulging the children’s game of pretend wasn’t it. He blinked at being referred to by the exalted cultivator’s title. He still was able to smile through his surprise, much like how the true Lan Xichen would have been able to. “Yes, would Young Master wish to purchase some?” 

“I have a better game idea for Sunshot.” Wei Wuxian bought some flowers  and instructed the children to line up as if walking a grand procession “Make way for the heroes!”

“Er-ge- er, Zewu-jun, you need to join the procession, too!” The little “Chifeng-zun” said. 

“I’m fine.” The flower seller was very good at getting into character. “Enjoy yourself, Dage.”

The little “Ghost General” couldn’t be in the procession. “I can throw flowers!” he said, taking a bunch from Wei Wuxian and holding them up to “Zewu-jun.” A soft pink blush crept over his small, round cheeks. “I’m not supposed to be in the parade, s-so, for you!”

“I accept the Ghost General’s favor with honor.”

At the other end of the procession, the other “Wei Wuxian” had grabbed a flower and was crushing petals over the head of the small “Hanguang-jun.” 

“Jiang Cheng” scoffed, turning up his nose at the whole proceedings of his friends giving flowers to each other. “All of you bring shame to the designation of cultivator.”

Stepping back just a little to let the children play with the new game. Wei Wuxian turned his thoughts inward to concentrate more on Mo Xuanyu. Aside from the suggestion to ask about the inclusion of a replacement Lan Xichen, he had been silent and just watched. If Wei Wuxian were to put it in a picture, he’d have drawn Mo Xuanyu standing with a hand held to his chest, nostalgic and… some mix of sad and something else that Wei Wuxian didn’t have the words to name or described.

Xuanyu, you were pretty young when the Sunshot campaign happened, did you ever play games like this?

I was four or five years old. Said Mo Xuanyu. And no. I didn’t.

Awwhh, no little Xuanyu with a pretend flute?

I didn’t have anyone to play with except my mother.

That didn’t make sense. Of course, that cousin of his wasn’t a prize and had probably been just as horrible a child as he was an adult. But the Mo compound was not that far from the village.

No kids from around Mo Village?

No. Mo Xuanyu affected a sigh. I was the son of a cultivator, elevated... but also the bastard son of a bastard daughter, no matter that grandfather accepted her. And after Father stopped coming back…

People either pitied you or despised you, Wei Wuxian finished where Mo Xuanyu trailed off. He cuddled his soul closer to Mo Xuanyu’s. It was sad that they both knew that feeling. I think I understand why you and Lan Zhan enjoy the knocking game so much.

Oh? Do you now?

Mm. Neither of you had that childhood experience. Neither of you got to play.

I played! Mo Xuanyu had to backtrack from his assertion immediately. It was just... by myself.

Exactly. You and Lan Zhan have now found a ‘playmate’ in one another. Wei Wuxian sent Xuanyu a soft smile. It’s wonderful.

I... Wei Wuxian felt like Mo Xuanyu had hid behind his back. The fizzy blushing feeling was back, along with the sense that Mo Xuanyu’s face was pressed against his back, and his hands clenched the cloth at his shoulder. I’m going back to ignoring you.

Why? I didn’t have any double-meaning with that!

You see too much sometimes. In another situation, on another day, Wei Wuxian would have worried about how Mo Xuanyu was acting, but his fragile happiness felt a lot less breakable, especially considering how only a few minutes ago he was distracted and lost feeling. 

Ohoho, I’m not always a dunce.

Only with yourself, you’re a dunce

Mm, as you say, lovely Xuanyu.

I'm not lovely. The objection from Mo Xuanyu felt and sounded far more rote than it might have. Progress, even just a little. 

I’m only a dunce about myself, remember? Xuanyu is absolutely lovely.

Mo Xuanyu held onto Wei Wuxian’s shoulders tighter. The happiness between them was like a cup overflowing with wine, drenching both of them in the gentle feeling. The reluctance that Mo Xuanyu had in pulling out from it mirrored Wei Wuxian’s own. Too bad they could not have stayed in that frozen moment forever. 

We should go back to Hanguang-jun

Wei Wuxian nodded gathered up their snacks and made his goodbyes to the children. Yes. Hopefully, he hasn’t drowned in the bucket.

Don’t say that he’s too tall to drown in a bathtub.

When one is hungover, one can do many things that bend the laws of the world, including height... or he just stands in the tub, not knowing what to do, haha! Maybe he shouldn’t have said it like he knew what he was talking about, but it was hard to do that, and also not laugh from the ridiculous image of Lan Zhan standing in a bathtub.

At the inn, everything seemed fine. The innkeeper smiled at them and bowed, and there weren’t too many other guests on the lower floor. But as they moved to the stairs, there was a loud thud. Wei Wuxian surged forward faster, his pounding footsteps almost covering the sound of cloth ripping. 

“Lan Zhan—?” 

When Wei Wuxian would recount this story later in time, no one believed this portion. Even so, it happened, and it was completely true. Lan Wangji stood in the middle of the room, naked and hair wholly unbound. In his hands was his guqin, and next to him was the body parts trying to assemble themselves and creating a hurricane of destruction in the room. On display was the entirety of Lan Wangji’s chest, and more lower besides. 

Wei Wuxian’s jaw dropped. How many idle unspoken fantasies were being fulfilled right then?

We can enjoy the sight later!! Flute now!

I-I wasn’t! Wei Wuxian dropped their snacks and pulled out his flute, naturally finding harmony against the scattered version of Rest that Lan Wangji had started. 

The body took a little longer than in the past to calm down, but it did. Wei Wuxian let out a breath he had been holding, only to suck it in again. Goodness, the body of their dear friend had quite the defined musculature. But that could be explored later. “Lan Zhan, are you alright?” 

There was a long moment where Lan Wangji just stared at them. The only items protecting his decency were his guqin and his hair. His brain caught up to his eyes just as several drops of water from his arms hit the floor. Though he was normally still, he froze even further, eyes glancing over to where he had his clothing set aside. 

The entire pile was soaked. 

“Ah, Ah, it’s okay!”Wei Wuxian untied his belt. 

Lan Wangji’s ears turned a bright red. “What are you—“ 

“You’ll catch a chill like that. Come here.”

“...” Lan Wangji stared at the offered outer robe like it was something that he had never seen before, and never wanted to see again. 

May I?

Wei Wuxian took the mental step back to switch who was in control. Sure.

“Hanguang-jun, please?” Mo Xuanyu spoke, newly in control of their body. He shook the dark clothing in Lan Wangji’s direction again. “I know it’s a little short, but it is better than nothing at all while we clean everything up.”

Feeling humiliation like never before, Lan Wangji closed his eyes before nodding his head in a sharp jerk. Perhaps the worst thing was that Lan Wangji very much did want to wear this item. It belonged to Wei Wuxian, and Mo Xuanyu, after all. “... Don’t look.”

The moment that Lan Wangji took the robe Mo Xuanyu turned around, hands clasped behind his back. His fingers twisted around each other into a knot. “Wuxian and I bought some snacks, so the coin purse will feel a little lighter.”

“That’s fine.” Wei Wuxian and Mo Xuanyu’s robe only just came down past Lan Wangji’s knees, but the cloth managed to flow across his chest and arms without pinching or feeling like he was straining the material. “I’m dressed now.”

It was very hard for both Mo Xuanyu and Wei Wuxian to ignore the thought that Lan Wangji was completely naked under the borrowed clothing. Wei Wuxian managed to recover first. Let's use a talisman to quick dry his robes. Lan Zhan can eat while we do.

“Hanguang-jun should eat.” Mo Xuanyu acted on the suggestion rather than respond directly, handing over one of the food items that they bought, eyes staring solidly at Lan Zhan’s face. 

Lan Wangji nodded, taking the food and sitting down at the table. Sitting was more troublesome than he anticipated. The robe rode up and tightened against his chest. The only way he could sit without exposing things he’d rather keep hidden was with his legs folded and to the side. In combination with how his hair hung down around his face, Lan Zhan looked like a courtesan who had stepped fresh from the bath and eating the dainty gift that a customer left for him. 

Looking for paper and ink, it was good that Mo Xuanyu hadn’t seen it. He would have been red as anything and unable to complete the composition of their talisman. “We’d need to do a variation in the fire talisman, right? Emit heat rather than flame...” Of course, that hadn’t meant that he hadn’t noticed. 

Y-Yeah. Like that. That works.

Gods, he’s too handsome -

Way, way, WAY too handsome!

They had to stop halfway through their altered flame talisman. If he had continued, he would have made a blotch that either would turn the whole thing into a dud, or incinerate the clothing. It worked, however, and several heart-pounding minutes passed before Mo Xuanyu felt he could breathe. 

He patted Lan Wangji’s clothing. “I think these are dry enough...”

“... Thank you.” Lan Wangji couldn’t bow in Mo Xuanyu’s robe, but he was able to take back his clothing after finishing the last of the food he had chosen from Wei Wuxian’s purchased goodies. “... I will be out presently.”

Right… right he needed to get dressed. 

Mo Xuanyu startled like a cat tossed into a lake and booked it out the door. He slammed it behind him. With a sigh, he leaned against it, hitting the back of his head against the wood.

Are you okay?!

“He is very naked and very attractive.” Mo Xuanyu said, speaking aloud between gasps. 

... Yes. He is.

Unknown to them, Lan Wangji paused in getting back into this own clothing to pressed the black robe to his face. He breathed deeply, taking in the scent of it. His eyes snapped open. What was he doing? He shouldn’t indulge like this, even though it was far too tempting to stand there and let his breath mingle with the scent of Wei Wuxian. But... there was an edge to it that was utterly Mo Xuanyu. 

He threw the robe on the bed. No, he wouldn’t be tempted again to do that. Not while the other men were just outside, and not interested. 

It took him another minute to get the strength to go to the door and open it to the sight of Mo Xuanyu’s back. “You can come back inside.” Not a hair on Lan Wangji’s head was out of place, and the white of his clothing seemed especially pristine.

Tension hung in the air nevertheless. Except for one person.

Xuanyu, who has a more defined chest? Lan Zhan Or our dear friend—

Why are you asking me?! Mo Xuanyu blushed furiously as he stepped back into the room. Not exactly mortified, but not expecting the question. 

I wanted a second opinion!

“... When we have the opportunity, I will wash your robes.” Lan Wangji offered into the silence.

Muscles aren’t everything. Mo Xuanyu couldn’t help but feel a little defensive in favor of Lan Wangji. The man wasn’t completely rippling with muscle, but there was definition to his body. Mo Xuanyu shook his head in answer to Lan Wangji’s offer. “It’s fine. We need to get going anyway. Just need to put our friend in his bag.”

Mo Xuanyu’s hand suddenly smacked the corpse’s overly muscled chest.

“...”

“...” Mo Xuanyu sighed. “That was Wei Wuxian.”

“... I understand.”

Wei Wuxian smacked the chest two more times. Paused.  ... One more! And gave it a third. 

“I am sharing a body with a child.”

Mm-hm!  

“...” Lan Wangji’s lack of objection was just as loud as his lack of agreement over his movement to pack away the corpse’s pieces into their bags. “... Last night...”

“Nothing happened.” Mo Xuanyu was quick to reassure. “Wuxian decided to be nosy and ask you questions, though.”

Lan Wangji’s hands froze. “Questions?”

“If you had a wife and things like that. Nosy busybody things.”

“... Alright. ... Forgot knocking?”

“Yeah, we forgot the knocking again. Have to make that up later.” Mo Xuanyu looked over at Lan Wangji when the ensuing silence was heavier than usual. There was nothing visibly different about him but… somehow, there was the air of a wilted flower around him. 

That wouldn’t do. 

Mo Xuanyu finished tying back on his robe’s belt and took a step to the nearest wall. He knocked against it with rapid strikes.

Lan Wangji looked at him, as a flower might search for the emerging sun of the dawn. He responded on the wall near him, matching pace and rhythm.

Chapter Text

Mo Xuanyu didn’t know which was worse; having to sit back and watch Wei Wuxian flirt with women to get information, or watching Lan Wangji have an intense discussion about small fluffy animals. The first was made easier because he could make a running commentary on precisely what Wei Wuxian was saying if he felt up to it. Their current circumstances did not allow for that. He had been ceding control of their body to Wei Wuxian more and more, to the point that he only ever came out for a few moments before stepping back. 

Witnessing Lan Wangji’s conversation was made worse because there was a pit of ice that formed in his metaphorical chest that he had no idea what to do with. What came from that was a general annoyance with the entire present situation. 

At least it distracted him from the other reason that ice had been forming on his soul since they had left the Chang family compound. 

You’d think we didn’t have places to go. Mo Xuanyu thought, only just preventing himself from taking control of their arms to cross them.

Tell me about it. Wei Wuxian felt his eyes draw above the women towards Lan Wangji and his intimate conversation about rabbits. Part of him wanted to blame it on Mo Xuanyu because that made sense. He and Lan Wangji were growing closer, and it was part of his plan to ensure Mo Xuanyu’s safety and happiness. He wasn’t the jealous one. The ice that settled inside him that couldn’t be burned away wasn’t his.

Or, if it was, then being jealous of Lan Wangji talking to others (which made no sense), was too simple. He was only upset for Mo Xuanyu. That was all. 

Once he finished getting the necessary information and passing along the proper bargaining tools (that rouge from the charlatan had its uses), Wei Wuxian stood around until Lan Wangji finished talking, then walked back over… with the farmer. The ice in their veins grew. 

“He offered to shelter Apple while we investigate.” 

The farmer gave a sunny grin. There was a gap in his front teeth, but it made him look oddly more charming. “Anything for a young master and fellow rabbit lover such as Master Lan!” 

“Ah. How generous.” Wei Wuxian replied with a smile of his own, but his did not reach his eyes. Their eyes shifted once more to the fenced area and held back a retort about how his family would all be more well fed if he ate the rabbits. 

Meanwhile, Mo Xuanyu spoke up again, wishing he could tap his foot. His rabbits are nice, but I never knew that Hanguang-jun could talk as long about them as you do to women. 

Lan Zhan appears to be a man of many talents. Wei Wuxian took Apple’s reins and held them up in front of the farmer. “Careful. He bites strangers.” 

The donkey’s lip curled up, almost like he was giving a small grin. The farmer took a step back. 

Lan Wangji gazed coolly at Wei Wuxian and Apple, a silent request to ‘be nice.’ 

  Apple’s ears went back under the look, and he caused no more mischief for the moment. 

“R-right.” The farmer bowed politely, and lead Apple to the slightly dilapidated stable. 

Mo Xuanyu mentally sighed, but when Lan Wangji returned to walking beside him, it felt like a knot loosened in his chest. The ice was still there, but now it was more manageable. So we have our headway and our Hanguang-jun. Can we move on?

“Yes, Yes.” 

Once they were out of hearing distance, Lan Wangji spoke up. “What did you learn in your discussion?” 

Wei Wuxian shared what he had gleaned about Yi City from the ladies, filling in the dual meaning of the name, and how no people have traveled down the road since. Meanwhile, he decided to bug Mo Xuanyu with other questions, partially to include him, but also to push him into interaction.  Xuanyu, is it written in the same way as your birth name?

No. Mine is written to mean Chivalry.

No reaction? None at all? What a letdown. Ah. That suits you better, yes!  

“... Wei Ying.” 

“Mm?” Wei Wuxian returned his focus to Lan Wangji. 

“What did you give them?”

“The girls? Some rouge. Since Xuanyu was so rude and refused it before, I’m surprised you noticed. You were so absorbed in your discussion.” 

Lan Wangji blinked, unsure how to respond to the strange tone in Wei Wuxian’s voice. It was almost like the past, where part of him was afraid that a misplaced word would make him disappear from his life forever-- No, it wouldn’t solve anything to think this was the same. It was better to explain himself. “... It is rare to come across a rabbit breeder I don’t know. He does not raise them for meat. That is even rarer.”

Hanguang-Jun has lots of rabbit friends then. Mo Xuanyu replied. It made sense. When people got to really know Lan Wangji, of course, they would want to get closer to him. It was hard to think of anyone more perfect, or more kind, than this man he had only known for a few short weeks. 

Wei Wuxian repeated what Mo Xuanyu said, but decided not to express the underlying emotion behind it. 

However, Lan Wangji still frowned. “We share common hobbies, but... difficult to describe that as being “friends.” You two are—“ 

His words died on his lips. 

A catlike grin appeared on Wei Wuxian’s face. Mo Xuanyu took control of their eyes, boring up into Lan Wangji’s. He had an enormous amount of interest in what Lan Wangji was going to say. 

“Oh? What were you going to say?”

“... You two are my only friends.” Lan Wangji admitted, before his pace quickened, planning on moving ahead, but Wei Wuxian grabbed his hand first. 

Mo Xuanyu took control of the other hand, gripping onto Lan Wangji’s sleeve. At those words, all he could do was act. He didn’t know what to do with the bright feeling that flowed through him, now truly melting the remaining ice from that previous conversation away. It tried to battle with the remaining ice within the mind space that was centered around him. But… between the Chang estate and all that it had brought up with Xue Yang, the nightmare recalling what working with him had been like… There wasn’t much it could do but relieve the weight for just a moment, giving Mo Xuanyu something good and of the present to concentrate on.

“Hey there, don’t just run off after saying that! Come now, Lan Zhan. Your face isn’t that thin.” Wei Wuxian’s tone was light and coaxing. 

Lan Wangji stood still for a moment, before looking back, hesitant. He was ready for the rejection, just as before, and obviously still now. Wei Wuxian only tolerated his presence, and Mo Xuanyu rightfully did not trust him--

But Wei Wuxian’s smile held so much light it was almost blinding. “Silly man, didn’t you realize I have wanted to call you that for ages? And Mo Xuanyu is over the moon right now. Of course, we’re all friends.” 

Lan Wangji’s lips parted slightly before they set together again. Wei Wuxian felt a returning pressure in their hand, and Lan Wangji’s other one went to his sleeve, to cover the hand that gripped there. This feeling, it was wonderful. The assurance that neither hated him. He couldn’t express it with words, so all he could do was hold onto them as they walked. 

They kept holding hands for a good while, but the grip they had on each other turned from gentle support to a gesture of mutual guardianship. 

Fog rolled in as the mountains grew taller around them. The path settled quickly into a valley between the mountains, like they had walked down a set of stairs into the basement of the world. The fog itself thickened with every step, like the foundries of diyu released their fumes just in this one spot. 

Why do I have a bad feeling… Mo Xuanyu thought, less to Wei Wuxian, and more to himself. Suddenly, a large set of doors appeared before them. With one push, they gave with ease, opening to a further fog bank. Sure enough, this was their destination, but Wei Wuxian did not move to open one of the pouches to check. He could feel the body parts rustling inside, responding to the oppressive nature that surrounded them. 

They walked into the city together, remaining close. With the lack of clear vision, it would be far too easy for someone to attempt an ambush. 

“The feng shui truly is awful here—”

There is a faint crunch as he feet land on something. He looked down and found the angry visage of a severed head. But he isn’t too surprised. He’s stepped on plenty of severed heads at this point. 

He kicked it, and it went far too easily, with bits of colorful paper streaming out behind it. 

“See? Not real.”

“I wasn’t unnerved.” Lan Wangji and Mo Xuanyu said at the same time.

“They really are famous for their funeral dolls. That was exceptionally made!” Wei Wuxian kicked it again, sending the head further down a barren alley. 

Is that so… Mo Xuanyu’s politeness strained around the growing pit of cold anxiety in his chest.  I really don't like this place. It's not even that close to sundown but... this place is already dark.

It's an excellent place to hide the last arm, I suppose. We won’t be here long. Wei Wuxian made an effort to sound reassuring. It wasn’t much of a reassurance, but the idea that they were only going to spend just as much time as they needed here, and no longer, had its own kind of comfort. 

Tap. Tap. Tap. 

Lan Wangji unsheathed Bichen at the sudden sound. They were the only ones that they could see, but the taps had come from somewhere around them. One behind, the others to the left. Bichen’s bright glare pierced through the fog, yet it didn’t seem to make their surroundings any brighter or easier to see. There was just more fog to see after Bichen’s light burned away the fog around them. 

Tap- tap. Tap. 

Tap tap tap--

They moved away from the sound. But a thought hit Mo Xuanyu. Are we being herded further in it or back out… He trailed off and allowed Wei Wuxian to fill in what was left unsaid. 

I can’t even tell with all this fog—  

The fog shifted. Several sword glares cut through, taking it from completely opaque to only just being able to see through. The glowing lines of light gestured towards them and were warded off by Lan Wangji’s own gesturing, and Bichen following his will to blow away the tentative strikes. 

“Isn’t that—? Hanguang-jun?” The voice was young, possibly male, and definitely familiar. The jovial tones were coated in fear but trying to keep that hidden. 

“Hanguang-jun?! Then that means—” That voice was lower, deeper, more in control of itself and still very familiar. 

The first had to be Lan Jingyi, and the second Lan Sizhui. The guesses were proven correct when the two Lan Sect juniors stepped close enough to see clearly. With them was a whole pack of juniors from other sects, including Jin Ling, who was standing half a step away from the rest of the group, as if trying to distance himself as much as possible. 

Gods, what are they all doing here?

Chapter Text

Instant worry flooded Mo Xuanyu’s and Wei Wuxian’s consciousness. What are they doing here?  

More people meant more hiding and, even if it is Jin Ling and the two Lan kids, this wasn’t... going to end well. There were too many variables, too many to keep track of. 

Jin Ling, however, simply looked exasperated more than scared, sheathing his sword and putting his hands on his hips. “Uncle, what are you doing here?” 

What do you mean, you little mistress?! I’m the one who’s actually capable here! Wei Wuxian thought, gripping his flute close to his belt. “I could ask the same to you. How did you all get here? No one would host a night hunt here.”

Lan Sizhui followed proper etiquette and made quick bows to Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian/Mo Xuanyu before going into an explanation. “We got a mission and were traveling back when, well… a dead cat ended up being involved.”

“Several!” Lan Jingyi spoke up. 

Wei Wuxian blinked. “Dead cats? That’s a rather ill omen.” 

Jin Ling’s facade of composure easily cracked, and fury glinting in his eyes that was visible even with the fog. “It was poisoned! And Fairy—“ 

Lan Jingyi interrupted. “That's what happens when an animal tries to eat rotten meat.” 

“Shut up! Whoever did it will face the consequences. My second youngest uncle gave her to me!” 

A wave of distress also crashed on him at the thought of Fairy being hurt, but there was a strange warmth to it. Like ice melting in spring before the sun. He’s been acknowledged,  however obliquely. In Jin Ling’s eyes, he’s still considered family. 

            “Fairy picked it up and was also afflicted. She’s safe, but we had to leave her with one of the Jiang Sect disciples that stayed at the village to await more orders.” 

              Wei Wuxian flinched, then relaxed at the knowledge that Fairy was not around as Lan Sizhui finished his quick rundown. A small spark of appreciation welled in Wei Wuxian. Despite his youth, the disciple was quick on explanations.  Lan Wangji truly raised him well, despite not being his father by birth. He really never imagined Lan Wangji having children, but with how well he cared for his rabbits, maybe there was a correlation—? Oh, well, think about it more some other time. 

“We decided to try to find out why, and ended up here.” We Wuxian reached over his shoulder  in a stretching motion, but in doing so ‘pat’ Mo Xuanyu, assuring him about Fairy. “Well, good thing there aren’t any animals to worry after then in this fog.”

Imagine it, all of us would be far worse off. 

“You’re missing some others too— hey!” Lan Jingyi exclaimed. “You got rid of the donkey?! We worked hard taking care of that beast—!” 

“Of course not! My precious Lil’ Apple is being taken care of thanks to Hanguang-jun.” 

A small sigh could be heard a few paces off. 

Lan Jingyi looked ready to comment again, but his calmer friend placed a hand on his shoulder and spoke again. “Hanguang-jun, Senior Mo... may we ask what you are doing here?” 

“Looking into that demonic arm business. We’ve found quite a bit of—“ 

ta, ta...  

The juniors scream in a strange mix of fear and frustration.

“There it is again!” Jin Ling said. 

Lan Sizhui turned towards Lan Wangji. “Hanguang-jun heard that too, right?”

“Yes.” 

Huh, Lan Wangji didn’t speak in grunts to the disciples. Wei Wuxian would think about that later. “Everyone, huddle in!” 

He instructed the juniors to form a ball, with them and Lan Wangji on the outer orbit. 

What’s the plan? Other than living.
Making sure the little ones keep their heads is certainly a priority. 

The taps tapered off again, and the familiar scent of rot permeated his senses. Shadowy figures began to be seen through the most. 

Wei Wuxian grinned and let out a whistle for them to stay back. 

The shadows paused. 

-Suddenly, they charged forward! 

Before the juniors can scream, Lan Wangji directed Bichen in a clear arc, cutting away any corpses that get close. 

Wei Wuxian was dumbfounded. That didn’t make sense. All corpses listened to him, except for when…

... Whoever has the Stygian Tiger Seal is here.

Mo Xuanyu remained suspiciously silent.

Once the first onslaught is dealt with, the juniors realize they, in fact, also have swords, and draw them to fight back against the horde. However, none of them can use spiritual energy to send it out as an attack. And among them, only the Lans are able to fly, but they’ve not yet had that experience in combat. What is more, the fog is too thick to see an exit. No matter what. They will have to fight their way through. The horde kept coming.

Lan Jingyi is about to suggest flying again  before his well-timed slash had the powder that exuded from the cut fill his mouth. “Ugh! Those corpses were filled with something!” 

“What did it taste like?” 

Lan Jingyi described the surefire aspects of corpse powder. Wei Wuxian was quite familiar with it, though he never used it in battle. The Sunshot campaign always had enough fresh corpses either way. 

“How many got it?”

Several called out. And he sighed.

“Congratulations on your corpse poisoning.”

All squawked. 

“Don’t move if you inhaled it. Keep still!” Wei Wuxian then lowered his tone to the shadow beside him once more. “Lan Zhan, we need to—“ 

The shadow that he mistook for LWJ suddenly reached out for his waist, and he ducked back. 

”What are you doing here?!” The figure let out a garbled hiss. 

A cold burst of surprise shook Mo Xuanyu out of his silence, snarling at the shadow before he took over their body. “I could ask the same.” Then he said, louder. “Hanguang-jun! North of my voice!”

Bichen shot forward, and the gravedigger’s sword countered, still covered in black mist, hiding its origins. But it was clear to Wei Wuxian: Mo Xuanyu knew who it was, and wasn’t telling him. 

They felt Lan Wangji’s robe brush past him as he went to defend. However, with everything, having to also defend and not just worry for himself, even he was at a clear disadvantage. 

We need to get inside. Mo Xuanyu stepped back from the fighting to try to find a building. 

Wait, Tell the kids… ! Wei Wuxian told him about corpse poisoning, which sounds very... familiar…

”Useless! ” A voice rang through him and froze him in place. 

Xuanyu—?!

Right, the corpse poisoning. Mo Xuanyu opened his eyes, focused again. He couldn’t freeze now, and his attention returned to the juniors “Don't breathe in the powder. And don’t breathe in more of you already have! Get to a wall, stay together, we’ll get through this.” 

Thankfully, they all did as instructed, guiding ones already poisoned. Once there, Mo Xuanyu turned back. 

“Hanguang-jun...” He was getting further away. 

The sound of the fight continued, a pool of anxiety settled in their stomach, until Wei Wuxian broke through.  “Lan Zhan, are you alright?!” 

A grunt is heard through the gray, but not from Lan Wangji.

“I’m fine. Find somewhere to hide them.” Lan Wangji called, voice measured. 

Wei Wuxian grinned. “Right!” 

They go, Mo Xuanyu allowing him to remain in control. The knowledge that LWJ is fine, and can fight easier without them around, helped. He lead them all to a storefront that they were about to barge into, but he instructed them to be polite and knock. Most were flabbergasted until he demonstrated. 

It worked.

The old woman that peered at him through the crack looked at him with an air of suspicion. “This isn’t a place for lodging.” 

“My man has the coin.”

Jin Ling sputtered. “Hanguang-jun is your man now?” 

“Indeed, he is!” 

One junior exclaimed with joy.  “Then the story was real!”

Another said, “Don’t squirm! Do you want the corpse poison to spread?!”

... Why did you have to put it like that? Mo Xuanyu gently complained, affecting an annoyed sigh. And yet, despite the fighting and the poisoned juniors, he may have been amused. 

Because it would annoy you.

I'm not annoyed! If anything, he would have liked that statement to be true, but… Well, the world wasn’t arranged so everyone could get exactly what they wanted out of life. He decided to return to the matter at hand. The manager is dead, isn't she?

Well, Yes, but also no! One of the juniors mentioned they heard breathing, there is something interesting going on. Besides, though she is dead, she’s not aggressive, what does it matter? And do we really want to teach these kids to act without manners? 

The manager looked between Wei Wuxian and the pack of juniors behind him. As if despite being dead, and spending all of her life and undead life quite likely in this very city and never once stepping out of it, she looked on with the vague suspicion most commonfolk had towards those that society had taught them to see either as gods or devils. Especially the ones that were young men. 

“... Fine. I better get that payment.” she said, finally letting them all in.

The rows and rows of faces staring at them when they entered were not expected. Each one was unique, except for a pair of twins in one corner, and crafted masterfully of -- Mo Xuanyu took control of a hand to check -- paper. How had a single home became to be populated with so many paper funerary dolls.

  Think we could help Hanguang-jun with these? Mo Xuanyu asked. 

Lan Zhan can handle it without worrying about us. Let’s focus on the kids. Wei Wuxian turned back to the woman. “Manager, may we use your kitchen?”

The manager let out a sigh that sounded more like a wheeze, but shuffled into the kitchen area, dusty and smelling of disuse. Wei Wuxian waved at others to follow for assistance and found, thankfully, that the rice was clear of decay.
Congee?

You read my mind, Xuanyu.

Lan Sizhui and Jin Ling both assisted in cleaning, though Jin Ling groused, gathering buckets from the well outside to clean and rinse, removing rotten meat from the wasted storage, all the immediately necessary functions, until the hearth was clean and the water was set to boil. He finished washing the rice, and began to work it into the pot, stirring it in. 

You wrote about corpse poisoning, right? Mo Xuanyu asked, hoping that would mean Wei Wuxian was the expert, and he got his idea about the congee from there. That was not the case.

Not in depth. Wei Wuxian replied. Not all corpses have this. It’s almost like they were jugs of water that burst into pieces with the amount that seeped out of them. The congee is more folk medicine, but it works in a pinch.

Jin Ling scrunched up his nose as the rice cooked down. “Who would want to eat slop like that. I hate congee, its so boring.”

Why does it work, though? Mo Xuanyu pressed.

Ahh, as clueless as the young mistress! Allow me to explain--

Their whole body flinched.

“... Senior Mo?”

“Nothing’s wrong.” Wei Wuxian quickly assured, even if he doesn’t quite feel it. “Lan Sizhui, can you fetch the spices?”

“Spices?”

“Yes, spices.” Wei Wuxian went to his waist to search for another pouch. He did make a splurge purchase at one of those stalls along the road. Sure enough, he found the wrapped up pot, and when he opened it, he could feel the heat come off. Just the thing. 

Xuanyu? He asked again, as he began to gingerly shake the contents of the spice and hot chili oil into the congee. 

Just because I’m not…! Never mind. 

What would Wei Wuxian know about it? He was good at everything, every single thing he succeeded in and found another way, no trouble at all. What would he understand about how he felt?  

I meant it as a joke. That wasn’t… you know that wasn’t meant to demean you, yes? 

… Put down the spices. 

I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to--

Mo Xuanyu took control of their arm, stilling the onslaught of spice. No, no stop. We’re trying to help them, not kill them. 

This is helping them! The spice will make it easier to go down! And I agree with Jin Ling, plain congee is so dull. Wei Wuxian tried to wrestle back control of the pot. It was the first time they ever contested control. 

Jin Ling blinked as he watched their arm shake over the congee. “... What are you doing?”

There's a difference between flavorful and burning out a mouth without flame. Mo Xuanyu countered, more forcefully than usual. Put it down before Jin Ling gets suspicious.

No, you put it down. Wei Wuxian had no idea what he did wrong, but in cases like this, he would get defensive rather than back down. Mo Xuanyu wasn’t giving him anything to work off of. He kept switching ideas and falling silent. 

Wuxian. Please. Mo Xuanyu replied again. This was for the kids, more than anything. 

Then you take over. Wei Wuxian gave up control, letting the pot scatter to the floor. Don’t trust my sense of taste…

Both Jin Ling and Lan Sizhui exchanged looks of confusion as Mo Xuanyu picked up the pot, wrapped it up carefully again, and stored it in one of the pouches for safekeeping. Despite the chill, that garnered a little more warmth back into Mo Xuanyu’s veins from Wei Wuxian. He wasn’t angry, and the spices weren’t bad, but…. There were limits. 

You’re right, I absolutely do not trust your sense of taste.  

Mo Xuanyu distributed the congee around to all the juniors before ceding control yet again to Wei Wuxian. It was almost like he wanted to disappear. 

There are a couple of wary looks but... those who were poisoned ate, and the juniors all sighed in relief that it wasn’t so bad as the initial red lead them to believe.

Wei Wuxian crossed his arms in a huff. “Lan Zhan would have liked it...” 

“Not a chance Hanguang-jun would—“ Lan Jingyi’s face was nearly shoved into his chipped bowl before he could finish.

“Eat before the poison spreads, idiot.” Jin Ling replied. 

Wangji would not complain if you, and specifically you, put a torch in his mouth. 

Wei Wuxian very frustratingly forgot what Mo Xuanyu meant, focusing now on inwardly crowing in delight. Xuanyu, call him Wangji! You should call him Wangji!!

Wei Wuxian felt a faint warmth go to their cheeks as Mo Xuanyu replied. Not to his face. ... Yet.

Awwh, but he would be so happy, and I’m sure he would reciprocate.

We should check on the worse off of the juniors. 

With some more sighing, Wei Wuxian did just that. He told them to remain still and keep eating until their bowls were finished, but thankfully, it seemed none of them were going to reach the “die and or become a shambling corpse” point, when he heard a creak from the door on the other side of the paper doll workshop. He went in to check, and seeing the manager struggled with her needlework, helped her with it, then left her be, before starting on another impromptu teaching lesson. Partially, because it was good for the juniors to know, and partially because it took their mind off of things, like the endless masses of corpses outside, the corpse inside, Lan Wangji being who knows where fighting a foe, and with no way of getting out. 

It also took off the feeling of how weird Mo Xuanyu was acting for Wei Wuxian, until, suddenly, something rapped against the front door on the side of the house.

When he went to peek, a pair of blank white pupils stared back at him.

Chapter Text

“... Well, how interesting.”

How so? Aside from the fact that there seems to be a ghost outside. Mo Xuanyu replied, having them peek through the crack once more. No change, but the ghost had a bamboo stick. Could it be the one that lead them here? If so, perhaps they weren’t a foe. Nevertheless, whoever controlled the corpses couldn’t control a wandering spirit. 

Mo Xuanyu turned their head back towards the juniors … I have an idea…

Wei Wuxian smiled. Do share.

Have the juniors seen a ghost before?

I don’t believe they have! Most of them seem too young to have been on many assignments, and Night Hunts they would only have encountered beasts and corpses. He turned back and ushered Lan Sizhui forward. “Here, have a look.”

“Huh?” He walked forward, and looked through the viewer, but jumped back at the sight and shot them a soft glare. “That was mean, Senior.”

Wei Wuxian winked. “Come now, it wasn’t that bad.” He then leaned a little closer in a conspiratorial tone.  “Play the same trick on the others?”

Lan Sizhui turned a little to the side. Wei Wuxian nudged his shoulder. 

“Come onnn, it will be a good learning experience.”

After giving Wei Wuxian a long look, Lan Sizhui stepped out of the way of the door and gestured over to Lan Jingyi.

You’re so mean. Mo Xuanyu replied, but he wasn’t chiding. After all, this was his idea, if not his plan to conduct in such a manner. 

It is a learning experience. I am being cruel to be kind. 

“Mm?” The other Lan disciple made his way over. “So, what is it?”

“See for yourself.”

Lan Jingyi looked, and then immediately screamed. Despite just recovering from corpse poisoning, he couldn’t hold back his immediate reaction. “Sizhui, you know I don’t like—!”

“Senior Mo said it was a good learning experience.” Lan Sizhui replied in the most saintly way possible, like a Buddha statue made flesh, despite hiding a devilish design. At least, according to Lan Jingyi. 

 “Well it’s not—“ 

“It is, and I will explain once everyone has a turn. Now, look again.” Wei Wuxian interjected, crossing his arms. 

“I was poisoned!” 

Wei Wuxian reached over and checked his pulse and the scent on him. Nope, it hadn’t spread. “Congratulations, you’re cured. Now, look.” 

“...” Lan Jingyi wanted to disobey, and instead looked at the ground. The past few days had been awful! First the dead cats, the corpses, the poisoning, and now ghosts! Maybe he should just shave his head and become a monk, like ancestor Lan was--

“A-Yun.”* Lan Sizhui said quietly to Lan Jingyi, voice as gentle and soothing as a late spring breeze.  “I’ll be right here.”

“…” He looked at Lan Sizhui. 

… Well, he couldn’t simply abandon his friend to the duties of a cultivator all by himself.

Lan Jingyi side, before crouching down to look again.

“Are you done yet?” Jin Ling asked in a way that was more of a command than an inquiry. 

After a minute he turned back to glare at Jin Ling. Even after traveling for a few days with him, he was still such a brat! 

He moved a little to give the Jin Sect heir room.  “You go then.”

Jin Ling scowled at having to share the tiny space, but he did as requested, and what he saw made him give a sharp intake of breath. 

Lan Jingyi felt a little smug. He wasn’t the only one who was scared.

Lan Sizhui crouched down again and companionably bumped his shoulder against Jingyi’s. “Not so bad the second time, yes?”

Lan Jingyi bumped back. “Yeah, I guess...” 

Jin Ling cleared his throat. He felt, strangely, irritated. “Next.” 

Everyone has a turn to observe and went on to describe the spirit with a variety of details, ultimately coming up with the image of a young girl holding a bamboo stick, with odd grey eyes. Wei Wuxian praised and admonished at different parts, then began a lecture on bravery and the necessity of building it up. 

Some of the young ones refuted such necessity, Lan Jingyi being among them. Jin Ling glared at him for disrespecting his uncle.

“You looked again, didn’t you?” He said flatly. “Take what knowledge you can.”

“Says the kid who made a fuss at Dafan…” Lan Jingyi muttered

Mo Xuanyu during this was trying to prevent the connection between him and Wei Wuxian from freezing over, trying to keep warm as he listened to Wei Wuxian’s words. Despite teaching the juniors, he felt he needed to the comforting confidence the man gave most dearly.

Not that he would ever admit that. Why do I have the feeling that half of that was pulled out of your ass?

But it still sounded good! Anyway, it’s better than what happened to me at the Burial Mound— Mo Xuanyu felt an overwhelming pressure that was quickly shoved back down into the depths of Wei Wuxian’s side of their shared consciousness. Wei Wuxian quickly shifted the trajectory of their conversation. — And as Seniors, it’s up to us to teach them! 

Wuxian... Mo Xuanyu sighed.

Yes?

... Later, know that we’ll talk about that later.

There was a flame that threatened to burn to the quick. It’s not relevant.