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Chapter Text

It all started with a letter of invitation handwritten by the famous Hanguang-Jun; an invitation to Wei Wuxian's nephew's one-month celebration. A nephew that his precious Shijie gave birth to.

Wei Wuxian had been beyond excited to hear word from the Second Master of Lan and was ecstatic at the prospect of being able to see his newly born nephew and his beloved Shijie after so long.

Wen Qing has immediately suspected it was all a trap to lure Wei Wuxian to the Koi Tower and suspected the man also has his own suspicion on that. But it was all overshadowed by his desire to see his loved ones and he'll risk his safety for a chance to get a glimpse of them once more.

She wanted to be able to give a benefit of a doubt that the Jins won't be so underhanded and use a man's love for his family just to obtain power but the Jins haven't gave her a reason to do so and she wasn't about to let her guard down just so they can take everything from her once more.

She already lost her brother once, she's not going to let the Jins anywhere near her brothers if she could help it.

Wen Qing so desperately wanted to open her mouth to remind Wei Wuxian to be more wary of the invitation but shut it tight once she saw the bright delight in his eyes as he read the letter over a second time, drinking in the delicate words written by someone he so obviously admired.

So she kept quiet but remained alert for any signs of danger while Wei Wuxian locked himself up in his cave to work on his nephew's present.

But then not long after, another letter came that was definitely not written by Hanguang Jun. The calligraphy showed that a high esteemed person wrote it, as further evidenced by the high ranking seal on the letter, but it was not signed. What she does know, was that it must've been from the Lanling Jin sect because the seal shows a white peony — the symbol for the Lanling Jin sect. The paper the message was written on was of high quality and so was the envelope.

Whatever was written in the letter was definitely not good news as the moment Wei Wuxian read it, his face immediately fell and a serious demeanor overtook him.

Whatever it was, Wen Qing did not like it. And when she asked Wei Wuxian what was written, he gave her a strained smile and promised her he'll tell her later. That behaviour had raised the 'Wei-Wuxian-is-about-to-do-something-stupid' alarm in Wen Qing but she knew the stubborn fool won't speak to her until his decision was made.

So she waited until nightfall where everyone was asleep before she barged into the cave to confront the idiot about the letter. Wei Wuxian had expected her to come and calmly placed the letter on the table before retreating back a few steps. She quickly snatched it up, eyes scanning through the letter before crumpling the paper up between her hands and grounding it underneath her feet in rage.

How dare those Lanling Jin bastards demand something like this to him!? How dare they demand that the Yiling Patriarch Wei Wuxian, to surrender himself to the Lanling sect and in exchange, they are willing to pardon all the Wen remnants on the Burial Mounds. The world will leave them alone as long as they do not cause any trouble and the 'dangerous' demon that the world fears would be locked up and under watch. The world would be at peace, never having to fear the Yiling Patriarch ever again, plus no one would have to die. It was a win-win situation for many and the Jins saw it as favourable to the Wens.

But what they did not take into account was how much the Wen remnants saw Wei Wuxian as one of them and by demanding this, they were threatening one of their family members which angered Wen Qing greatly.

They had already taken away so much from them. What more do they want before they're satisfied? Wei Wuxian is their hero who rescued the 50 of them from hell. He brought them to a safe place at the cost of everything he knows and gave them another chance at life.

Life at the Burial Mounds was not easy and they suffered the first few months with a few falling sick and dying while most starved till they fainted. Wei Wuxian was also not doing well but would rather hide behind a facade full of smiles and laughter while he tried his best to grow radishes and build shelter for everyone to live in. Money was always an issue but somehow they got by with the meager amount they earned from their harvest. Despite being weak and tired, Wei Wuxian would always be the one to head down the mountain to buy the supplies they need or to sell the crops from their harvest.

He gave everything he had to them, leaving himself starving and still, he continued to find ways to help them improve their lives on the Burial Mounds. He set up defenses to protect them, came up with talismans to put around the entrance to prevent intruders so they can breathe easier and gave all his meager food portions to little A-Yuan so he would grow up healthily.

Not only that, the letter had insinuated that Wei Wuxian should not attend the one-month celebration as he would only bring shame to the Yumeng Jiang Sect if he dared to show his face after everything terrible he’d done. 

Wei Wuxian had said nothing about that but Wen Qing could tell those words bothered him because it was not the first he’d heard of it. No matter what Wen Qing and the others say, Wei Wuxian would continue to blame himself for the lives lost, for the inevitable decisions he had made and the people he hurt -- including them. 

It was always him. Always him to suffer. Always him to take the fall, just because his heart is too big. And when he stupidly decided to go surrender himself to the Lanling Jin sect, Wen Qing had almost burst a vein at how self-sacrificing that idiot was willing to go for someone like them.

"It's a trap you idiot!" She yelled. "Do you really think they'll spare your life and ours?"

"It’s a risk I’m willing to take." Wei Wuxian smiled softly at her, trying to calm her anger even at this time. "We can't keep living like this. The crops aren’t growing well and winter is coming. At this rate, we'll starve to death first. If I accept, you all wouldn’t have to live in fear of the world and be able to leave this place to have a better life. If giving myself up to the Jins would ensure that, then I would be willing to take that chance."

Wen Qing never wanted to punch someone in the face so much before. How could one be so selfless and stupid! Wei Wuxian is and will be a person she'll never be able to understand for all the good in his heart and how far he's willing to go for his own beliefs.

"Idiot!" She spat, knowing there's nothing else she could say when Wei Wuxian made up his mind. The fool was stubborn in his decisions and would not change his mind once he had decided in his path.

"Qing-jie..." Wei Wuxian gently took both her hands and held it firmly in his. "Once I'm gone, I need you to look after everyone. I trust that you'll keep everyone safe and alive."

The look in Wei Wuxian's eyes were bright and determined, and Wen Qing was relieved to see that the toll of living in the Burial Mounds has not chipped away the bright soul that is Wei Wuxian, that the demon cultivator remains the same as ever.

"Who do you think you're talking to?" She huffed. "I'll do it even if you didn't ask."

"I knew I can always count on you Qing-jie!" He squeezed her hands affectionately and grinned. All Wen Qing could think of when she met that bright smile of his was how in the world did the entire cultivation world ever think such a man like Wei Wuxian to be a demon? Just because he practices Demonic Cultivation? If only they would look deeper into the meaning behind his actions rather than believe everything that was done at face-value, maybe then, would they understand a man like Wei Wuxian was the furthest thing to be compared to a demon and more like a saint. As that was what he is to the Wen remnants right now.

And here he was, ready to sacrifice himself again for their sakes.

"It should be me and A-Ning who should go..." She whispered but in the silence of the cave, her words were clear.

"No. They'll definitely kill you two if you go." Wei Wuxian shook his head firmly. "They want Wen Ning because they want to know the secrets behind his body but if the person who created him is in their hands, hopefully they'd leave Wen Ning alone then..."

She wanted to yell that there's a high possibility that he'll be killed too if he goes!

Wei Wuxian wasn't even sure of his plan and yet he's still willing to risk his life for the smallest possibility that the Wens would be safe and left alone. Wen Qing really wanted to shake some sense into Wei Wuxian.

Do you even know what this means! You'll be walking to your death! You're handing yourself to the enemy and giving up your life! She wanted to scream but she knew it'll all be useless. That idiot had decided and there was nothing she could say to change his mind. She could only sigh and curse the idiot for making her feel like this.

Wen Ning had remained silent at the corner of the cave while he listened to his sister and Wei Wuxian talk. He too, knew how his savior was like and as much as he wanted to accompany him to the Lanling Jin sect, he knew he'll be rejected. Sure enough, Wei Wuxian stopped beside him and placed a hand on his shoulder, giving it a firm squeeze.

"Wen Ning, make sure to take care of your sister and A-Yuan. You're the strongest here so do all you can to protect them." He smiled and Wen Ning could only nod mutely, not knowing what to say. He has never been good at talking and even worse in these kinds of situations.

What could he say? What should he say?

Come back? Don't go?

No. That'll be selfish of him to say that knowing that Wei Wuxian was going because of them and he couldn't cause him any more pain than this. Wei Wuxian knew the consequences of his actions--he always did, even when people called him reckless or fool-hardy--and knew what would happen when he surrendered himself. He just hoped the Lanling Jin sect would be true to their word and their promise to leave the Wens alone, otherwise Wei Wuxian's sacrifice would be for naught.

It's a dangerous gamble, but what choice do they have? They were starving; on the brink of death and some were even sick. He was hiding it well but both Wen siblings could see the guilt in Wei Wuxian's eyes for bringing them here and for their suffering. The guilt was not something he should bear but yet nothing the Wens said could ease Wei Wuxian's guilt and their living situation was getting worse as winter approached. Thus, the decision was quickly made without question.

As Wei Wuxian left to isolate himself in the deepest part of the cave, both Wen Ning and Wen Qing shared a look. They both knew Wei Wuxian wanted to be left alone right now and they would give him his much deserved privacy. Still, they wished that there was something more they could do to ease their friend's burdens.

The next morning, Wei Wuxian came bouncing out of the cave with a bunch of talismans in hand and some papers in another. He looked terrible; deep eyebags which suggested he didn't sleep at all and he looked absolutely fatigued. But despite everything, the smile he wore was bright as always and his eyes shone with delight as he shoved all the talismans into Wen Qing's hands and started babbling about its uses and how he came up with them in one night.

"Okay Okay... I get that you're a genius. But could you speak in a way that normal people can understand?" She sighed exasperatedly but wore a fond smile on her face at the childish smile Wei Wuxian wore at being called a genius.

"Alright! Let this handsomely genius Wei Wuxian grace you normal people with his great knowledge!" Wei Wuxian bowed dramatically while A-Yuan, who was nearby with Granny, clapped enthusiastically with laughter.

Wei Wuxian turned to give little A-Yuan a cheeky grin before turning back to her and explaining to her each different talisman's functions and how to use them.

"You've only need to activate it by voicing a command to it. I’ve infused some of my energy into it to make it so that anyone without spiritual energy can activate it." He explained and Wen Qing knew it was for those more vulnerable people in their community to protect themselves with. Many of them were not cultivators and thus had no spiritual energy to arm themselves with. The only fighters in their group were Wen Qing, Wen Ning and a couple of the adults but even then they have no swords to fight with, not to mention they haven't been practising their cultivation for months. These protective talismans were bound to be useful for them and she was impressed by the amount of time he took to come up with it. But then again, she shouldn't be surprised at the wonders Wei Wuxian could perform, not when he already did so many feats for them.

Everyday of being alive was already considered a miracle for them and she would not ask for anything more.

Wei Wuxian passed a stack of papers full of scribbles to her and she found it was filled with incomplete ideas for future projects that he might never get to do.

"I entrust this to you." And Wen Qing was about to have another screaming fit at this idiot because he couldn't do this to her--couldn't do this to them. "I don't want to let any no good sect get a hold of my brilliant ideas!" He grinned and Wen Qing had the overwhelming urge to smack the idiot.

And so she did.

"As if anyone would want your weird inventions! If you don't want anyone to take it, why don't you just burn them?"

"What! No!" Wei Wuxian gasped scandalously, with one hand to his aching head and another to his mouth. "These are precious to me! I spent a lot of time on them!" He pouted.

"Besides...you might find that you might need them one day." He said that with less energy than before and Wen Qing knew that the idiot was even thinking of trying to protect them long after he’s gone.

"Fine. I'll keep them." She was going to keep them either way but can't resist a little banter with the man-child.

They argued a bit over more meaningful topics like what supplies would they need over the next course of days or what crops would best be grown in this tainted soil before slowly getting to the topic that she dreaded.

"So...You're going?" They were now at the outskirts of the little village they made but they both stopped before Wei Wuxian turned around with a twirl.

"Yup! No need to see me off! I don't want to see you crying over little-oh-me!"

She knew Wei Wuxian was only trying to lighten up the mood but she was not letting him do this to her, because this may be the last time she saw him.

She opened her mouth, the plea on the tip of her tongue behind she shut it tight with a snap. She knew that no amount of pleas would change his mind but she didn't know what else to say.

It was all so unfair! It should be her that should be going to plead for the lives of her family, not Wei Wuxian's! Why did he have to take the pain for her family's lives? Why did he have to go?

But it is how it is. And there's nothing Wen Qing could do with what meager power she has in her. She wanted to protect her remaining family but she was powerless to do so and had to rely on Wei Wuxian. She had only wanted Wei Wuxian to rescue her brother but Wei Wuxian went a step further and rescued the rest of the Wen remnants at the cost of his own life being in shambles. He said nothing of his own pain and instead focused on helping them build a life here. And for that, she will be forever grateful.

"There's nothing I can say to stop you so I can only say this." She looked up right into Wei Wuxian's eyes and took a breath.

"Thank you….and I'm sorry." She said it with utmost sincerity and gratitude and bowed.

"Stop it Qing-jie!" Wei Wuxian quickly launched forward and grabbed Wen Qing’s arms to prevent her from bowing and straightened her up. Wen Qing allowed him, taking the opportunity to glance at his face with a sad smile.

In the past few months, she had really come to see Wei Wuxian as her younger brother and become really fond of him. She wished she had more time to spend to get to know how his life was before all of this had happened instead of arguing about which crops to plant or how to survive till the end of the week.

But now the peaceful time was up and she had to watch her family go and into the jaws of death yet again. She didn’t think she could ever get used to this pain.

She said nothing as Wei Wuxian turned, walking down the mountain path and away from them. He didn't turn back once but Wen Qing could see how determined his back was and how resolute his eyes must be as he headed to possible death.

She watched until she couldn't see even a speck of black anymore before turning back to the little village she now calls home. She felt her eyes water but she refused to let them fall. Now that Wei Wuxian was gone, it was up to her to make sure everyone survives the upcoming winter. It wouldn't be funny if their lives' were saved through Wei Wuxian's sacrifice, only to succumb to natural forces.

No. Everyone will survive and she damn well will make sure of it. She needed to be strong for them. She needed to be reassuring to A-Yuan and Granny and all the non-cultivators just like how Wei Wuxian was to her.

She needed.... She needed.....

She didn't know when the tears had spilled over until the view before her blurred.

"Sister..."

Wen Ning stood beside her with a hand on her elbow to steady her. "Sister.." He called again and despite being an undead, she can tell the worry from his tone.

"I'm alright." She gently pulled away from her brother and straightened herself. "I'm fine." She said this with more strength and took a deep breath to recompose herself.

There's no time to be sad, not when there's so much to do around here. Their home was far from habitable and there was so much they needed to do before they could breathe easy. Hopefully, with the threat of the LanLing Jin sect over, they could get things done faster and more efficiently.

This was a chance given to them by Wei Wuxian, and she will do everything she can to make use of it.

Chapter Text

It's been a week since Wei Wuxian went down the mountain to answer the Lanling Jin sect summons and yet there was no word from them or from the cultivation world.

Wen Qing bit her nails and paced around the cave in worry about what she should do. She knew it was a bad--no, a terrible idea!-- to let that idiot go to those monsters but did that idiot ever listen to others?

No! He only smiled and asked her to take care of her family and be safe. As if that idiot wasn't part of her family she wanted to protect!

And now after 7 days, there was no word from the world outside. Wen Qing and Wen Ning would disguise themselves and head to Yiling like how Wei Wuxian used to, in order to sell their harvest and earn what little money they could. While doing that, they would keep an ear out for any rumors or hearsay from the townspeople for the news.

But so far, they got nothing.

If the Lanling Jin sect had the Yiling Patriarch in their grasp, they would be busy flaunting their success to the world but yet no news of that happened yet. It was quiet as though nothing had happened and everyone went on with their lives as usual. But not for the Wen remnants. Not for Wen Ning and Wen Qing.

The Jins have indeed kept their promise in leaving them alone since then but it might be because they were too busy with the big fish they caught to be bothered with the little ones not worth their attention. No matter. Wen Qing preferred they never show their faces to them or even set foot on their mountain but as the days went on, Wen Qing knew that something had gone terribly wrong.

There was still no word of Wei Wuxian or the Yiling Patriarch being captured or killed and it would be as though Wei Wuxian had mysteriously vanished if he had not told them of his plans.

As the 8th day approaches, Wen Qing knew she had to do something. But what could she do? She had no sword to aid her, her cultivation was unsuited for battle and she had no power in the cultivation world.

But all her troubles were answered when she chance across the blue robes of the GusuLan sect on a run for supplies. She has brought along A-Yuan today since the boy was getting antsy from being cope up too long. The boy took one look at the GusuLan person and went running full speed at them and hugging their leg.

"A-Yuan!" She chided. Half exasperated at the child for hugging strangers' legs and half worried at how that person might react to the child clinging onto their leg.

"Rich-Gege!" A-Yuan giggled and shook the person's leg and Wen Qing was surprised that it was the esteemed Hanguang-Jun who she ran across. She was immediately wary of him but remembered how Wei Wuxian had invited him over to the Burial Mounds for dinner when he never did bring anyone over—not even his grumpy Shidi—over for tea.

He must be someone special to Wei Wuxian, not to mention that A-Yuan has also taken a liking to the Second Jade. Maybe—just maybe—this man might help her. 

She approached the man slowly, carefully watching his expression for the slightest change that might suggest he might attack her, after all, she was still a Wen that the world despised. 

However, Lan Wangji didn’t show any indication of attacking but looked down at the child with a look of affection that Wen Qing did not expect to see on the stoic man. But it went and passed quickly as though it was never there and Lan Wangji directed those piercing gold eyes to her. 

“Wei Ying?”

She was a little taken aback that the first word that the man said to her was to ask about Wei Wuxian which suggested that their relationship wasn’t as bad as the rumors say they are--not that rumors are reliable but it was all she got. 

Lan Wangji waited for an answer but she didn’t know how to break the news to him. Still, she needed his help.

“Esteem Hanguang-Jun.” She greeted and bowed, aware that Lan Wangji had also returned the bow to her. “May we speak somewhere more private?” She didn’t want to stay in the open for too long. Even if people no longer recognize who she was, she wouldn’t want to take the risk of being exposed and risk bringing danger to her family.

With a nod, Hanguang-Jun led her to an inn and to a room he was staying in before heading out again and coming back with a tray of delicious food. Her stomach growled at the smell and she felt her face flare up in embarrassment. Wen Yuan, on the other hand had no qualms about accepting the food and hurried excitedly over to the man in joyous glee. 

“Eat.” Lan Wangji gestured to the food and she could only stare in shame. She was conflicted over accepting the offer from someone like Hunguang-Jun and if she didn’t know better, she would think of it as pity. But from what Wei Wuxian said about the man, she was willing to take the chance and hope everything would turn out alright. 

She bowed once more in thanks and proceeded to eat while helping A-Yuan with his food so he’ll not make a mess on the table. She gave most of her share to the growing boy, knowing that he deserved so much more than this and not starving along with them on the mountain. 

“Eat.” Lan Wangji pushed the bowl of rice closer to her, urging her to eat instead of giving it to A-Yuan. “I’ll have more brought up.” 

“No need. I wouldn’t want to impose on you any further.” She tried to protest but Lan Wangji was having none of it. He acted as though she hadn't spoken and ordered more food to be brought up to the room for them. Wen Qing really had no idea how to interact with such a silent person like Lan Wangji and she found the atmosphere in the room getting awkward as she ate. And even after the meal, she didn’t know how to bring up the issue she wanted to ask. Luckily for Wen Qing, she had A-Yuan to fill in the silence.

“--and Xian-gege said he’ll play with me when he comes back but he didn’t!” A-Yuan crossed his arms and pouted. “Xian-gege is a liar.”

“A-Yuan…” Wen Qing tried to placate the child. She had already told A-Yuan that his Xian-gege had to leave on some urgent matters and might not be back for a long time. But A-Yuan didn’t understand why his Xian-gege would leave him alone for such a long time. He even asked to be brought along but of course everyone denied his pleas and wails until Wei Wuxian made a promise that he’ll be back to play with him if he behaves well. 

A cruel promise that he may never fulfill.  

“Wei Ying disappeared?”

Wen Qing sighed, seeing the worried expression on Lan Wangji’s face and wondered how much a person like Wei Wuxian could make the Second master of the Lan sect--a man known for his cold demeanor and stony front--make such humanistic expressions that he normally won’t make in concern to anyone but Wei Wuxian.

“He…” Wen Qing started but trailed off when she found that she wasn’t sure how much she should tell the man. She was now sure that Lan Wangji wouldn’t hurt both her and Wen Yuan but she still wasn’t sure if she should be burdening the Second master of the Lan sect with this. 

But, it was not like she had a choice now does she?

So she gathered her thoughts and drew herself straight. 

“I presume you knew that Wei Wuxian was invited to Koi Tower for his nephew’s one-month celebration right?” She started.

“Mn.”

“Did you also know that he later received another letter asking for his surrender to the Lanling Jin sect?” 

At this, she got an interesting reaction from the stoic man that barely resembled surprise at the news. 

“No. I have not heard.”

The Lanling Jin’s most likely kept it a secret from the other sects in order to keep the prize to themselves… She thought.

“The letter is likely from someone high up in the Lanling Jin sect from what I could tell by the envelope. It states that he has to surrender himself to the Koi Tower and in exchange they will be willing to spare all the surviving Wens and grant us pardon.”  

Bullshit in her opinion. The damn Jins have no right to even make such a claim as though they were the ones above all the other sects. 

“And Wei Ying went?” 

The expression on Lan Wangji’s face was now easier for her to read and she clearly saw the worry in his eyes for Wei Wuxian. She was glad that her family and her were not the only ones in the world who still think of the Demon Cultivator as someone important to them. 

“Wei Wuxian made up his mind to go in order to protect us. He wanted us to be able to live freely out of the confines of the Burial grounds.” It was never a confine for her actually. Sure, they were on the run from the world outside but here in the Burial Mounds, she considered a safe haven for her and her family. It might not have been the finest place to live in, even painful at times when food shortage and illness bested them, but it was a life they had built with their own two hands from scratch. She only wished she had made Wei Wuxian see that from her point of view before making up his own damn mind to go play the hero for them to live a better life. 

“Mn.” Lan Wangji’s expression had quickly returned to his usual stone expression but she knew the cultivator was going to help her. “I’ll ask my brother for more information on this.” He stood up gracefully and took his sword. 

“Rich-gege!” A-Yuan whined at seeing him about to leave but Wen Qing held onto him before he could throw himself onto Lan Wangji’s leg again. Though it was unneeded when Lan Wangji turned around and gave Wen Yuan’s head a soft pat.

“Be good.” He chided and A-Yuan immediately listened. Now she knew how Wei Wuxian felt when he dramatically proclaimed that he had been abandoned in favour for a man with money. 

“Wen-guniang.” She stood and faced the man when addressed. “It’s best if you bring A-Yuan back soon. I’ll see you at the Burial Mounds to discuss this further after I meet with my brother.” He bowed in parting and Wen Qing bowed in return, feeling a little clumsy because it had been a long time since she was shown such acknowledgment--especially from a man like Hanguang-Jun. 

After Lan Wangji left the inn, she decided to quickly head back to the Burial Mounds to get ready for their guest. 

Guest. She wanted to laugh at the prospect of having guests over at a place like the Burial Mounds; a place where only the desperate gathered. 

Along the way back to the mountains, she came across a stall that was selling herbs and tea leaves and she couldn’t help but stop to look. She remembered Wei Wuxian whining about the lack of tea to serve their guest the last time Lan Wangji was there on the mountains, and how upset Wei Wuxian was at not being able to show hospitality to someone he dearly considers a friend. Maybe it wouldn’t change anything now, but Wen Qing thought she should at least show her appreciation for having Lan Wangji come to the Burial mounds just for Wei Wuxian. So she bought a bag of tea leaves; a simple one but one she knew would suit Gusu Lan’s tastes.

Satisfied with her purchase, she and Wen Yuan made their way back up the mountains-- back to their home.

Lan Wangji hadn’t come alone. With him were two other men; one wearing the same Gusu Lan’s uniform as Lan Wangji and the other was wearing the Yunmeng sect’s purple uniform. 

She had informed everyone of Lan Wangji’s arrival so everyone knew but with the arrival of these unknown people, she was afraid her family might get alarmed. They do not take kindly to strangers after all. Not that she could blame them, seeing how she herself could barely handle outsiders despite her years of being by Wen Ruohan's side as his aide.

She recognised the familiar scowl from the Yunmeng sect person when they got nearer and she tensed.

What’s he doing here? 

The last time she saw him was when he freed her from Wen Cao’s prison but after that she had only heard stories from Wei Wuxian about the fight and how he renounced his brother from the sect. 

She wasn't sure what to expect from the grumpy man when he descended onto the base of the Burial Mounds with Lan Xichen behind so she waited with crossed arms for a reasonable explanation from Lan Wangji as the man landed right before them.

"They are here to help." Was Lan Wangji's only explanation and she let out a soft exasperated sigh. She doesn't trust the other two at all, not when she could barely trust the honorable Hanguang-Jun, but at this point she could only hold her tongue and hoped Lan Wangji knows what he's doing by bringing these two here.

"Lady Wen." Lan Xichen gave a bow and greeted her with his usual politeness.

"Sect Leader Lan." She returned before turning to the last person with some difficulty and bowed. "Sect Leader Jiang."

The grumpy sect leader returned the greeting with stiff movements and the air got a little tense between the two. But before Jiang Cheng could open his mouth, Wen Qing turned away and gestured to the three to follow her up the mountain to the Burial Mounds. She undid the protection barrier like how Wei Wuxian taught her to and easily put up another once they were through. Till this day, Wen Qing would be forever amazed by the brilliant mind of Wei Wuxian for coming up with talismans of protection that could be used by anyone without spiritual power. And it was all for the sake of protecting them from harm.

How could anyone who ever knew this man ever thought—even for a second—that he was evil?

Wen Qing noticed Lan Xichen glancing at the barrier with a tint of approval on his face while Lan Wangji's brows furrowed a tiny bit in thought. She knew that the three could sense the trace of Wei Wuxian's energy signature in the talismans she held. She wasn't blind to what Wei Wuxian had to do to make it so powerful, but she was desperate to have something to defend her family with that she turned a blind eye when Wei Wuxian presented these to her.

She led the three towards the Demon-Slaughtering cave for privacy. Along the way she gave the wary Wen remnants a reassuring smile before chiding them to return back to their work which they gladly did so after seeing that these men were acquaintances of Wei Wuxian. A side glance at the her guests could tell that the two sect leaders were uncomfortable being here and by the sight of Sect leaders Lan’s expression, he seemed disturbed at the awful sight of their man-made shelters and the sad state of their crops they tried so hard to grow in these poor-conditioned soil.

“Rich-gege!”

Wen Yuan quickly latched onto someone’s leg but that someone wasn’t his favourite rich brother. 

“A-Yuan..” Wen Qing smiled fondly at the child. “Behave. You shouldn’t bother our guest.”

“It’s alright Wen-guniang.” Lan Xichen smiled down at the child hugging his leg and spoke patiently to him.

“Hello there. What’s your name?”

Wen Yuan was startled that the person he hugged wasn’t his Rich-gege but the person who spoke to him was just as kind as the other and smiled just like his Xian-gege so he wasn’t scared but he did quickly release the leg. “Wen Yuan!” He grinned, showing all his teeth. “I’m three!”

“Hello Wen Yuan. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Lan Xichen did a bow in greeting that Wen Yuan tried to imitate and frowned when he didn’t get it right. Lan Xichen just chuckled at the cute attempt and turned to his younger brother. “So this was the child you mentioned before?” 

“Mn.”

“A-Yuan, go find Granny. The adults need to have a conversation.” Wen Qing gently pushed the child towards the entrance of the cave but Wen Yuan turned to her with a curious expression on his face. “Secret meeting?”

“Very.”

Wen Yuan had a thoughtful frown for a moment before nodding his head.

“Okay! A-Yuan will be good!”

“Thank you A-Yuan.” Wen Qing ruffled A-Yuan’s hair affectionately and Wen Yuan ran out to find his Granny to play with.

“What an obedient child.” Lan Xichen commented.  

“Yes, he is. I just wish we could give him better.” Wen Qing sighed as he watched the child run till he was out of sight before taking in a breath to prepare herself for the talk ahead. As soon as she was ready, she turned and faced the three men before her, expression fierce and unbreaking, not willing to show any weakness to them. 

She didn’t trust any of them but Wei Wuxian did and she trusted Wei Wuxian so she was willing to take this risk for him.

Wen Ning came in with a pot of tea and Wen Qing directed them to the stone table she prepared for the talk. After the tea was served she quickly got into the heart of the matter and recounted everything that happened before Wei Wuxian disappeared.

After she was done, she blew out a breath and took a sip of tea to calm herself down. While everyone was digesting the information she provided, she took the chance to observe the three men’s expressions to judge their behaviour. 

Jiang Cheng’s was the easiest. The man was angry-- well, angrier than he always is; his brows were furrowed so deeply and his lips were tightened into a straight line. He was clutching the teacup tightly and there were little sparks of lightning coming from the famous Zidian on his hand. Wen Qing wouldn’t have thought the Jiang sect leader cared that much for Wei Wuxian after disowning him from the sect and cursing him so much.

Lan Xichen was a little harder to read but Wen Qing could tell he was troubled by the news. As they mentioned a few times during her explanation, they never heard anything about the Yiling Patriarch being captured nor did they hear any movement on the Jin sect. They had been quiet and acting like their usual pompous self.  

Wen Qing was a little taken aback by the amount of emotion Lan Wangji was showing on his face. It was the most she had seen of the man and it showed how much this news had shaken him until he couldn’t even control his distress from showing through. Lan Xichen glanced at his brother with concern in his eyes but didn’t say anything to reassure him. Instead, he turned to Wen Qing with his usual calm demeanor and asked some questions to clarify some questions he had. 

Wen Qing tried to answer all of his questions to the best of her ability but she didn’t know much especially since she and her family had been held up in the Burial Mounds and wanted nothing but to be left alone to their own devices. Lan Xichen ended his questions and there was a moment of silence as they each were left with their own thoughts.

When Jiang Cheng finally got hold of his anger, he asked for proof for this happening because he wasn’t going to blindly believe the words from a Wen and Wen Qing had to control herself from rolling her eyes at him. 

He hasn’t changed… She thought. If she was lying in order to grow mistrust between them and the Jin sect, she wouldn’t do it in a way that involved Wei Wuxian and she told the Jiang Leader just that.

“But if it’s evidence you want, I have it right here.” She held up the crumpled letter and slapped it on the table for them to see for themselves. She was glad that she didn’t destroy the letter in her fit of anger back then. It had been close, but Wen Ning had taken it to be put aside and had forgotten about it until now.

Though the letter was not signed, both sect leaders were able to recognize the handwriting of none other than Jin GuangShan. They now have clear evidence that the man was the one who had instigated this and with the fact that Wei Wuxian was now missing and unheard from, knew that Jin GuangShan had kidnapped the Demon Cultivator at Koi Tower.

“That idiot!” Jiang Cheng yelled, his voice echoing throughout the cave. “Why did he go if he knew it was a trap! Fucking idiot!”

Wen Qing absolutely agreed with him but both Wen Qing and Jiang Cheng should know that a stubborn Grade-A fool like Wei Wuxian seldom thinks of the consequences, especially if he thinks his actions will help others then he wouldn’t care less about his own well-being. 

He didn’t even think through on how his actions will affect those he left behind because in his mind, he most likely didn’t think anyone would mind him gone. 

It was just like him to cause so much worry even when he's not present.

"And how could you just let him!" Jiang Cheng turned his anger onto Wen Qing. "You should've known it was a trap and you still let him go!"

The accusation wasn't wrong but it was uncalled for as it was all Wen Qing could think of after Wei Wuxian left them. Still, it made her furious that someone like Jiang Cheng would say something so hypocritical to her.

"He never gave me any choice!" She didn’t yell, just raised her voice higher than usual. She wasn’t going to start yelling like the Jiang Sect leader, but it was close. She was sure that her eyes were burning with uncontrollable anger and she wanted the Sect leader to see it. Jiang Cheng should be the one who should understand best how Wei Wuxian functioned and shouldn’t be lashing his anger out on just anyone because the object of his anger was absent. "You know how stubborn he is when he made up his mind to do something! We begged him not to go but he wouldn't listen!"

"Well you should've tried harder!" Jiang Cheng yelled back, face red with fury and Zidian sparked in response with his emotions. "You should've knocked him out or something!"

"It wouldn't work and you know that. He would've found a way to leave once we turn our backs. Anyone who knows Wei Wuxian would know that he hates to be tied down." Wen Qing breathed out slowly to control her temper. She didn't want to submit to her anger just like how Jiang Cheng always did. "You of all people should know that."

The last remark may be unnecessary and cutting, and she may have taken a bit of pleasure in seeing Jiang Cheng flinch but she doesn't regret it. She had seen how deeply hurt Wei Wuxian was after the fight with Jiang Cheng and even after that, she had seen the longing at wanting his shidi back with him.

Wei Wuxian tried to cover all of that with his usual laughter and smiles but she could see the pain in his eyes from time to time whenever she did some gesture—like the roll of her eyes in exasperation over one of Wei Wuxian's antics—that reminded him of Jiang Cheng.

She understood Jiang Cheng's position in the cultivation world. The young sect leader was single-handedly busy rebuilding his sect from the damage done by the Wens and now she and her family—the Wens—has taken away their top disciple from them. Jiang Cheng had every right to hate them for what the Wens had done to his sect and his family but she had thought Jiang Cheng would be partial to them when Wei Wuxian had been involved. Instead, he had turned his brother—his life-long brother— away and cut all ties with him.

Wei Wuxian didn't blame him. Instead, he felt it was for the better because he didn't want to bring trouble to the Jiang Sect. Wen Qing thinks that Wei Wuxian was a fool—an extremely sacrificial fool.

As an older sister herself, she would do anything in her power to protect her younger brother and she had seen Wei Wuxian do the same for his. Even if they were not blood related, the bond between them was true.

She had failed as a sister in protecting her own brother and was granted a second chance by Wei Wuxian when he brought her brother back to her but in return, she had damaged the bond between Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng's. Wei Wuxian has countlessly reminded her not to worry, that it was bound to end like this one day because of how Wei Wuxian was but Wen Qing would never agree to that.

Jiang Cheng could still have his brother back if he chose to. His brother wasn't dead and could still be brought back. All he needed to do was to try.

And Wen Qing was determined to try to make it work. She owed Wei Wuxian too much not to try.

There was only silence in the cave after that with only Jiang Cheng's heavy breathing filling the cave before Lan Xichen spoke up.

"I'll go back to Cloud Recesses and try to dig around for information. Maybe I'll talk to A-Yao and see if he heard anything." He suggested and immediately Wen Qing protested.

"I would prefer if this stays between the three of you and no other." Though she could trust Hanguang-Jun to a certain degree, she could barely trust the two sect leaders with Wei Wuxian's safety and wouldn't know what would happen if outsiders knew that the fearsome Yiling Patriarch was missing from the Burial Mounds, they may decide to launch an attack on them and they will surely be killed without mercy.

It seemed like the Sect Leader Lan understood her fears and nodded. "Rest assured. I'll be discreet."

"I'll also look out for any signs of that idiot. If this is another stupid trick of his then I'll break his legs!" Jiang Cheng growled but Wen Qing was glad that the Jiang Sect leader would be helping them in their search, even if he had difficulty admitting it.

The two Sect leaders descended the mountain intending to leave when Lan Xichen turned and saw the look on Lan Wangji's face. One glance at his brother's face and Lan Xichen knew what he was thinking.

"Just be careful okay?" He sighed. "Make sure you return before curfew otherwise uncle will notice."

Lan Wangji nodded once and his brother seemed satisfied with the reply. While they were talking, Wen Qing had slowly walked up to the Jiang sect leader with caution and Jiang Cheng turned to frown at her.

"What?" He snapped but Wen Qing wasn't bothered by the tone. She had survived Wen Ruohan's tyranny, she could handle Jiang Cheng's tantrums. Besides, she needed to make clear of something.

She remained silent as she took out a cloth from her robes and she heard a sharp intake of air from Jiang Cheng as he recognized what was being brought out.

The cloth was dark purple in color and made from the finest silk. She slowly unfolds the cloth to reveal a beautifully handcrafted wooden comb. It was the comb that Jiang Cheng had given her when he freed her from the dungeons during the events of the Sunshot campaign. Jiang Cheng had told her to hold onto it as a reminder that she could use this comb as a token so that she’ll be able to ask for help from him if she ever needed to.

But she never did.

She wasn't blind to the Sect Leader's intentions but she wasn't in any position to think about a partner, or marriage or even a future for that matter. Her brother and her family's lives were at stake, her hands were tied and there was practically nothing she could do in the face of the four major sects' power. The Wens were fated to die but she would not let her family suffer the same fate, not while she still lives.

So she had denied Jiang Cheng the first time he asked but yet kept the comb the second time he presented her with it. Maybe it was because she was desperate back then, maybe because she was separated from her family and wanted something familiar to be with. Or maybe, deep down, she wanted to be with Jiang Cheng but couldn't find the courage to accept his help, not without dragging him down with her.

Wen Qing finally knew how Wei Wuxian felt when he decided to force Jiang Cheng to cut ties with him in order not to implicate the Jiang Sect even if it hurt his heart till no end, for she also had to do the same.

She had kept the comb for long enough, it was time to return it to its owner. Thus, with one last tender caress of the comb, she gingerly presented it towards the Sect Leader with a bow.

"Thank you for this but I'm afraid I would have to decline this."

Wen Qing dare not look up to see Jiang Cheng's reaction, she did not want to see the hurt on his face.

"Keep it. I'm sure you could sell it for some money to buy food." He said it in an indifferent tone as though he couldn't be bothered with what she'd do with the comb.

"No. It's not mine to keep. I'm returning it to its rightful owner." Wen Qing insisted, still holding out the comb towards Jiang Cheng.

"Damnit! Why can't you keep it!" Jiang Cheng suddenly raised his voice. "Just throw it away or sell it! I don't care!" He growled and then sighed, as though suddenly very tired.

"Why didn't you ask me for help? I gave you the comb for that. Why didn't you rely on me instead of Wei Wuxian?" He muttered softly, sounding miserable and tired inside that Wen Qing's heart ache for him but she would not bend.

"If I would to ask you to abandon your sect, everything that you've ever known and to go against the four major sects, would you have done it?" She asked, knowing all too well what the answer was.

Jiang Cheng was speechless at that. As a sect leader, he has many responsibilities to his people and to uphold his sect's legacy - especially when he had to rebuild his sect from scratch. He couldn't just abandon it all for the sake of one woman. And Wen Qing knew that all too well. She wouldn't want to force Jiang Cheng to make that choice anyway and so she would have to break his heart once more.

The comb was finally lifted from her hands and her heart sank a little at the loss of it from her side. For the first time, Jiang Cheng had an unreadable expression on his face that Wen Qing could not interpret and it worries her.

The air was tense between them and Wen Qing noticed that the two Lans were looking at them. Wen Qing gathered herself up and took a formal bow.

"Thank you Sect leader Lan, Sect Leader Jiang and Hanguang-Jun for coming all this way. I'm sure you would not appreciate this but my family and I are forever grateful for your aid."

Jiang Cheng grunted in acknowledgment but did not look her way. Lan Xichen just smiled warmly at her and bowed back.

“I hope we will be able to find Young Master Wei quickly and get a reasonable explanation from the Jins soon.” He said slowly, his tone sounding a little weary and perhaps tired. Wen Qing speculated it was because there was the prospect of Jin Guangyao keeping this matter from Lan Xichen. It could be that Jin Guangyao didn’t know of this but that was highly unlikely since he was Jin Guangshan’s advisor and would be the first person to know of everything that happens at the Koi tower. Wen Qing guessed Lan Xichen had thought of that but didn’t want to believe it due to his friendship with the Jin.

Well, no matter. Things would be brought to light soon and hopefully Wei Wuxian would be alive and well, though she knew the chances of that were small but she allowed herself to hope.

Wen Qing opened the barrier once more to let the two Sect Leaders out when she noticed Lan Wangji staying beside her. She raised a brow in question and Lan Wangji answered.

“Staying. It’s what Wei Ying would want.” And he skillfully added his own layer of protection barrier onto the one Wei Wuxian made, fortifying it. Wen Qing stared dumbfoundedly at Lan Wangji’s retreating back up the mountain path and wondered how in the world did the bright and cheerful Wei Wuxian get someone like Lan Wangji to be friends with him. But she was grateful nonetheless to have someone like the Hanguang-Jun to be there to guard them.

Lan Wangji surprised Wen Qing further, when he started going around asking for something to help with but everyone was either too abashed to ask the famed Hanguang-jun to do this kind of work or too nervous to talk to someone from a major sect. Lan Wangji took all of this in stride as usual and went around finding tasks he could aid with and soon ended up with babysitting duty with A-Yuan.

A-Yuan was so happy being with his rich-gege and Lan Wangji handled the child with ease; indulging him with his playful requests, listening attentively to every word the child blabbered out and even promising to take him out to the town for snacks. 

“A-Yuan…” Wen Qing called from where she was tending to the crops and also keeping an eye on the two in case. “Stop troubling Hanguang-jun.” 

“No trouble.” Lan Wangji insisted and Wen Qing just sighed. She wanted to say no to spoil the child but couldn’t because A-Yuan deserves to be spoiled and deserves so much more than to live in this desolate land. So she kept quiet and soak in all the delightful laughter in the air as Wen Yuan continued to indulge himself in some sort of game with Lan Wangji and the man just quietly did whatever A-Yuan told him to do even if it meant getting his pristine, white robes dirty with mud. But never once did Lan Wangji seem to mind and Wen Qing could even tell that he was enjoying spending time with the child. The sight warmed Wen Qing’s chest and she was glad she had turned to Lan Wangji for help. She just hoped things would continue to get better and Wei Wuxian would turn out fine like how he always did after every incident he was forced to go through. Wen Qing hoped it would be the same this time round too. 

Though the chances were small, she could only hope and rely on Lan Wangji this time. She only wished that there was more she could do for Wei Wuxian besides making sure everyone in Burial Mounds were surviving, but it was all she could do for now.

Chapter Text

Lan Wangji started to leave just as the skies were starting to turn dark and Wen Yuan was devastated to see him go. He cried and hanged onto his Rich-gege’s leg and refused to let go.

“No! No! No! Don’t go! Don’t leave!” He cried, leaving fat tears rolling down his cheeks.

“A-Yuan…” Wen Qing tried to calm the child down but Wen Yuan was crying too hard to be calmed. 

“A-Yuan.” At Lan Wangji’s voice, the child’s cries slowed but he was still in tears. “I’ll be back.” He said but it seemed it was not convincing enough for Wen Yuan. 

“No! Lies! Xian-gege said that too but he’s not back! Xian-gege lied!” At that, A-Yuan’s wails got even louder.

Wen Qing could only stand there helplessly as Wen Yuan's cries continued. She knew it was a bad idea to lie to the child and told Wei Wuxian just that. Wen Yuan should be told the truth but Wei Wuxian had carelessly made a promise that he'll return to them and that had not only made Wen Yuan smile then, but also put hope in Wen Qing's heart. It was cruel but she knew that was what Wei Wuxian felt was the right thing to do then. That man was always doing things for others without thinking that they too, care so much for his well-being as well. 

Wen Qing watched as Lan Wangji gently patted A-Yuan's back in smoothing motions and spoke something low into the boy's ear. It took a while, but eventually A-Yuan's cries grew quieter but his tears still flowed. Lan Wangji then reached into his sleeves and took out a paper butterfly, presenting it to A-Yuan who took it with a thin smile.

"Be a good boy for Granny." He said and A-Yuan immediately nodded his head. Wen Qing caught the small twitch of Lan Wangji's lips which could barely represent a smile and smiled herself at how the cold demeanor the man has could easily be broken because of A-Yuan.

"Good." Lan Wangji nodded back, satisfied at A-Yuan's behaviour. He turned to her next and this time, Wen Qing did not feel the discomfort she felt before from talking to the man.

"I'll return tomorrow, preferably around noon. Brother should be coming with me." He announced and bowed.

Wen Qing wanted to dissuade him from coming to the Burial Mounds but she can tell it would be a fruitless attempt. Lan Wangji was going to come no matter what she said.

She appreciated the help of course, but she didn't want to be indebted to someone from the Lan sect much less someone like Hanguang-Jun. She already owes too much to Wei Wuxian that she could never repay in one lifetime and she didn't want anymore people to be dragged into whatever mess she and her family were involved in.

But with the circumstances as they were, she didn't have much choice in any matter and would have to swallow her pride and let others with the power to do what they can while she would take care of the Wen remnants with the best of her ability.

As she watched Lan Wangji got onto his sword and fly away, she felt afraid for what's to come. But for the sake of her family, she would endure and put on a brave front to ensure them of their safety, even without Wei Wuxian beside them.

With one last glance to the sky, she turned back to the top of the mountain that was now filled with soft, dim lights from the numerous hanging lanterns and walked hand-in-hand with A-Yuan back to their warm little village.

True to his word, Lan Wangji arrived just before noon, bringing along food, medical supplies and even clothes. Wen Qing was reluctant to receive so many things from him but one look at Wen Yuan’s shining eyes at the food made her swallow her words and accepted it with grateful hands. She took stock of the medical supplies and was impressed that Lan Wangji had given her those expensive ones that was hard to obtain but very effective in its uses. She gratefully put it aside and decided to distribute the food Hanguang-jun brought to her starving family, starting with A-Yuan and the elderly.

Granny took a small portion of a meat bun and wanted to leave the rest for A-Yuan but before Wen Qing could say anything about it, Lan Wangji walked over, produced another meat bun and presented it to Granny.

“Eat. There’s enough for everyone.”

Lan Wangji made sure everyone got their fill, even Wen Qing herself and for the first time since arriving at the Burial Mounds, they found their bellies full for once. And they even have leftovers for those who might be hungry later.

It was truly a memorable day for the Wen remnants and the smiles on everyone’s faces made Wen Qing’s chest light and she felt her lips twitch into a smile at their happiness.

“Thank you.” She bowed gratefully towards Hanguang-Jun and the man replied with a hum.

“Any news?” She prompted and felt disappointed when Lan Wangji shook his head.

“Brother has been trying to seek an audience with Sect Leader Jin but was repeatedly turned away. Even brother's request for help to Jin Guangyao has been rejected.”

This was the most Wen Qing has heard Lan Wangji speak but seeing the circumstances, it would be understandable. Even with his cold demeanor and stoic expression, Wen Qing could see the displeasure of the situation that has made even the great Hanguang-jun troubled.

Lan Xichen had arrived sometime during the food distribution and now walked among the Wens, chatting lightly with them and making them comfortable in his presence. With his pleasant smiles and gentle tones, it was no wonder at all that the majority of the Wens quickly warmed up to him within hours especially with how distrustful most of them were after everything they’ve been through. Truly, Zewu-jun was rightfully praised to be one of the graceful Twin Jades of Gusu and so deserving of his title as a distinguished sect leader.

His smile was a little strained when he walked up to them, seeming conflicted in his thoughts.

“I was sure A-Yao would help me but it seemed I was mistaken.” He started. “What’s more, it seemed he was anxious about something. He wasn’t acting like his usual self and he seemed to be in pain. I worry...”

Lan Xichen trailed off but Wen Qing wasn’t paying attention to whatever internal conflict the man was having with himself. Everyone knew that Jin Guangyao and Lan Xichen, along with Chifeng-zun are sworn brothers after the Sunshot Campaign. And now that Lan Xichen was suspecting that his sworn brother was keeping something big from him, he didn’t want to believe it. Lan Xichen wanted to believe in what his instincts was telling him but at the same time, he wanted to believe in his sworn brother as well. Wen Qing, on the other hand, had never liked Jin Guangyao – or Meng Yao, as that’s what he was called back when he infiltrated Nightless City as a spy and that was the only identity Wen Qing knew of the man. Meng Yao had done everything Wen Ruohan had instructed of him and Meng Yao had carried it out flawlessly without fail, making him Wen Ruohan’s chief advisor and second-in-command. The things Wen Qing had witness Meng Yao do was horrifying and brutal, yet Meng Yao did it anyway. He might argue now that he was forced to do it in order to stay in Wen Ruohan’s favour, but Wen Qing could have sworn that the man had enjoyed the bloodshed. She wouldn’t go telling it to others though, cause who would believe her? It was her word over an esteemed member of the Jin sect, she was sure to get prosecuted for the accusation.

And seeing how much Lan Xichen trusted his sworn brother, she had little hope that she might change his mind about Meng Yao but she would try at least.

“Was Meng—Jin Guangyao, injured?” She asked.

“No. At least, I don’t see any visible injuries on him. However...”

“However?”

“I thought I felt some residue of resentment energy on him. But I may be mistaken...”

Or in denial. Wen Qing thought with an internal sigh.

Meng Yao must not be trusted. She hoped Lan Wangji would agree with her as well and try to dissuade Lan Xichen from blindly putting his full faith and trust in the man.    

“If I may...” She started, slow and choosing her words carefully, lest the Lans get offended and leave. “I would suggest Sect leader Lan to reconsider his view of Jin Guangyao. It would be dangerous to place your trust on the man without knowing his true character.”

She knew she just insulted the Sect leader when Lan Xichen’s eyes flashed in anger and she quickly bowed in apology.

“I do not mean to offend. I only wish to inform you that Jin Guangyao is not the man you think he is.” She did not look up from her bow and there was a moment of silence passed before she deemed it safe to straighten up. Lan Wangji was standing close beside his brother, providing his silent comfort as his brother tried to compose himself.

“I’m pretty sure I know A-Yao more than you could’ve.” He said that in a tone that sounded on edge but then sighed tiredly. “.....But I suppose I would take your words into consideration.”

“That is all I ask. Thank you Sect Leader Lan.” She formally bowed once more to convey her gratitude but the sect leader placed his hands on her arms, halting her bow.

“Stop. Lan Xichen would be fine.”

“Thank you Lan Xichen.”

Lan Xichen nodded but seemed like he had more to say. Wen Qing waited patiently for the sect leader to gather his thoughts.

“Your people....are there no cultivators present?”

“Except for me, my brother; Wen Ning and Wei Wuxian, there is no one else in my family able to cultivate. Some of the younger ones know a little about sword fighting but they are not warriors. The rest of my family consists of a majority of healers and some farmers and artisans.” She answered truthfully.

“But Jin Guangshan said—”

“My apologies Sec--Lan Xichen, but Jin Guangshan is a liar and would do anything to see all of us Wens dead. He lets his nephew; Jin Zixun use us for target practice and the labour camp they run is nothing more than a slave camp meant to satisfy his own sadistic pleasures and torture my family!”

She didn’t mean to get so heated up. She had accepted the fact that the Wens had to be punished when Wen Ruohan fell, but she would accept a swift death rather than seeing her family members kicked and tortured just for the Jins’ amusement.

Granny doesn’t deserve to be treated like this. Little A-Yuan shouldn’t be held accountable for the older generations’ mistakes!

Taking in a deep breath, she continued, her voice even and clear.

“All the while Jin Guangshan turns a blind eye to the suffering of his own people and sought power that he doesn’t need. I’ve been by Wen Ruohan’s side for long enough to see Jin Guangshan thinks he’s the next Wen Ruohan. He’ll stop at nothing in his quest for power and if he does indeed have Wei Wuxian in his hands now, he’ll find ways to keep pushing for more power until he has no use for him.”

Lan Wangji looked stricken by the prospect of Wei Wuxian in the hands of Jin Guangshan while Lan Xichen’s expression was conflicted. Lan Xichen wanted to believe in the good in everyone but maybe he was wrong to turn a blind eye to the Jins’ schemes? Their clan was well-known in their righteousness and upholding their rules. But where had that led them to? He wasn’t sure that his clan rules would be able to give him an answer now, at least not one where it would satisfy his brother or the lives of all these worn-out fugitives. 

Lan Xichen took another glance at Wen Qing’s face and felt guilt well-up inside of him. She was nothing like how she was before when he first saw her at a Cultivation Conference years ago. She carried herself with pride; her posture straight and her eyes were like fire, daring anyone to speak down to her and her words were sharp, sparing no nonsense and right to the point. Despite being a female and a healer, she was not someone to underestimate and now Lan Xichen knew the full extent of her fierceness and devotion to her loved ones.

He just wasn’t sure whether he himself had the same dedication to do the same.

“Brother...” Lan Xichen turned to look at Lan Wangji and sighed at the sadness in his eyes. He knew what his brother was asking of him.

He knew, but....

“There’s not much I alone can do to question the intensions of Lanling Jin and even if the Yumeng Jiang stands with us, it still won’t be enough.” He sighed. The Lanling Jin sect is very powerful; both in wealth and their numbers. They were second after the fallen Wen sect and now they are currently the top. If Wen Qing was right and Jin Guangshan thought himself as the new Wen Ruohan, who’s to say they might get another war upon them?

Lan Wangji opened his mouth to protest but Xichen put up his hand to stop him, not done with his point. “But if I have Chifeng-zun to stand with me, then I feel we would have a higher chance of finding Wei Wuxian’s whereabouts and maybe even seek pardons for you and your family.”

It would be extremely difficult, and a tedious task but it would be the right thing to do.

The astonishment on Wen Qing’s face made him smile softly and the relief in Wangji’s eyes made his chest warm. He could never let his brother down. If his brother sought to get Wei Wuxian back, he would do all in his power as the Gusu Lan sect leader to aid him in his quest.

“Thank you Lan Xichen.” Wen Qing couldn’t believe that the GusuLan sect leader would be willing to help them get pardon for her family. She thought no one would be willing to help them after the world doomed the Wens to die. But now Wen Qing found herself to have 3 allies standing with her (Despite his words, Jiang Cheng would still stand with Wei Wuxian even if he doesn’t admit it.) and though she wasn’t keen on the idea of asking the Nie Sect leader for help, she knew it would be best if they have more allies on their side to speak up for them.

Xichen nodded once. “It’s the right thing to do.” He said softly, mostly to himself.

“I should return and write a letter to Chifeng-zun and invite him to Cloud Recesses. Should he accept, I will try to bring him here and let him judge for himself the state of the Wens.”

“Thank you brother.”

“Hm.”

“I will return tomorrow with more food.” Wangji said to Wen Qing and before she could stop him, he took his leave with a bow and left with his brother.

Alone once more, she turned to walk back to the small village and though everything seems to be going well, the feeling of worry over Wei Wuxian’s well-being weighs heavily on her.

Jin Guangshan was not meeting anyone at the moment which seemed suspicious because that man loves to have an audience to show off. Additionally, Lan Xichen had mentioned that Meng Yao had traces of resentful energy on him that he could not hide which means either something went wrong when he was dealing with it or he could be injured with the harmful energy seeping through his wounds. If that's the case, then the wound must be serious enough that Meng Yao could not heal it with his spiritual energy and the resentful energy was seeping out.

Which means....

Wei Wuxian could've done something before he disappeared. Wen Qing sighed but felt better knowing Meng Yao must also be suffering from the vicious resentful energy in his wound. Maybe the wound could be used as evidence against the two Jins, if they ever get the chance to receive Wei Wuxian’s and the Wens’ pardons.

She had warned Lan Xichen about Meng Yao and though Lan Xichen may not be keen to heed her warning, at least she managed to bring up the idea to Lan Xichen’s head. Hopefully, he’d keep it in mind when he converse with the snake.

There was not much she could do now except to prepare for the worst ahead and she met the members of her family sitting down for dinner. As usual, there was one seat left empty with a small bowl of rice placed before it. Even though Wei Wuxian was not around, the others still remembered to include his spot in their meals in order to feel as though he was one of them. Wen Ning came out of the kitchen with more dishes and she felt her chest lighten a little. Seeing her little brother up and about always made her relieved because she could never forget the sight of her baby brother’s lifeless body on the ground, covered in both blood and mud, and drenched with rainwater. She shook herself out of her memories quickly before she drowned in it again and glanced around the small room full of precious family members and joined them at a table. The chatter today was not as rowdy as when Wei Wuxian was around but everyone tried to stay positive for each other’s sake, especially Fourth uncle who was trying to tell a joke to the unimpressed Wen Binbin.

Today was productive, she decided. And her people were happy, especially little A-Yuan despite his earlier tantrum about his Xian-ge not being around. But they have people outside working with them now. They are not alone in this.

Tomorrow will be better. She thought with a small smile and for the first time ever, she truly believed it would be.

Chapter Text

“Have you heard? The Yiling Patriarch went mad and attacked the Jin sect leader!”

“Is he crazy? Why would he do that?”

“Who knows why. Someone who dabbles in dark arts must not have any reason to go around killing innocents without remorse.”

“But Jin Guangshan is not exactly innocent is he?”

“Bah! Even if those rumors are true, it’s not like we farmers can do anything about it can we? At least the man doesn’t practice demonic cultivation.”

“Speaking of demonic cultivation,” Another man spoke up. “I heard the Jin sect leader got cursed from the attack.”

“I heard that too!” Another man barged into the conversation. “I heard that he got severely injured and now bed-ridden. And I also heard that the Lanling Jin sect is now looking out for the Yiling Patriarch in order to undo the curse he put on the sect leader.”

“What about the Wens? Won’t they attack in order to protect their master?”

“The who? How would a bunch of half-dead cultivators be able to stand against one of the major sect?” The man scoffed, quickly dismissing them before his eyes widened with more exciting gossip. “Furthermore, I heard that GusuLan would be helping Lanling Jin until they catch the Yiling Patriarch from hurting anymore innocents!”

“With two major sects working together, the Yiling Patriarch would be captured soon and we would have our peaceful times back again!”

“Cheers to the great sects!”

“Yeah!”

Wen Qing listened to the rumors going around the teahouse and felt a whirlwind of emotions within her. She was relieved that many people had forgotten about them, choosing to put their attention on the Yiling Patriarch instead. But the situation worried her.

Wei Wuxian was still missing and though she had an inkling of where exactly they might find him, she prayed hard that her guess wasn’t true.

If Wei Wuxian was really in the hands of Jin Guangshan (which was very likely), then she couldn’t imagine what that horrid man would do to the demonic cultivator in order to get him to spill his knowledge on demonic cultivation.

She quickly gathered her supplies and exited the tea house. She had come down to the town to buy some more tea leaves and medication, before deciding to rest for a while at a teahouse. The town was bustling with activity from the latest gossip floating around and Wen Qing was on her guard and wary when she chose to take the risk to come down the mountain after holding up at Burial Mounds for weeks. She was glad she did though, some additional information about the cultivation world from a civilian point of view never hurt and it would be better than just relying on the Lan brothers for information.

It has now been exactly a month since Wei Wuxian’s disappearance and there’s no word from the Jins or any information on the whereabouts of the demon cultivator.

Lan Xichen had gone to Nie Mingjue for help and had explained everything that happened. Nie Mingjue had been skeptical of course, but since it was his sworn brother asking help from him, he was willing to listen before making his decision. Lan Xichen had asked Wen Qing for permission to bring the sect leader over to let him witness the truth for himself and Wen Qing allowed, thinking it’d be for the best to show Nie Mingjue that they were of no threat to anyone.

That doesn’t mean they weren’t nervous of course. Wen Qing knew the history behind the sect leader’s father’s death at the hands of Wen Ruohan and that Nie Mingjue’s hatred projected onto all the Wens. That and the fact that there had been some Nie cultivators among the Jins at those labour camp they were forced into. Whose’s to say that the sect leader was in on it too?

However, Lan Xichen had repeatedly assured her that Nie Mingjue was a man of justice and would know right from wrong. He would not let personal feelings get into the way of seeing the truth and he’ll listen to her story before making judgement. That hadn’t lifted the weight from her shoulders though and when Nie Mingjue arrived onto the Burial Mound, she let out a breath to steel herself before walking out to greet him.

“Greetings Sect Leader Nie, Sect leader Lan.” She bowed respectfully to each of them in greeting.

Lan Xichen returned the greeting with his usual smile but Nie Mingjue just grunted in acknowledgment. He looked like he would rather be anywhere else but here in front of these Wens that he despised and Wen Qing shared the same sentiment. She was tired of seeing hatred-filled faces and hearing vile words thrown at the Wens. Granted, the Wens did deserve it at some point but now that the war is over and the Wen empire has been crushed with all of their cultivators dead, what more did these people want from those who had nothing to do with the war and only prosecuted because they have a Wen in their name? 

But her feelings were irrelevant right now. She has to get the Nie sect leader on their side in order to help Wei Wuxian and the rest of her family. So, swallowing down the irritation at seeing the Nie sect leader’s gruff attitude, she straightened her back and made herself as presentable as possible despite her shabby outfit.

“Sect Leader Nie, this one welcomes you to our humble home.” She would’ve flinched at the hard eyes directed at her if not for having spent years by Wen Ruohan’s side and she continued without pause.

“As you can see, we do not have any cultivators here with the exception of myself and Wen Ning.” She could see the Sect Leader’s eyes got harder at the mention of her brother and knew he did not approve of her little brother’s existence as a fierce corpse with a conscience but she brushed that aside for now. Besides, she knew the man would not lay a hand on her brother without provocation and if he did, Wen Qing would definitely fight him tooth and nail for the sake of her brother. She would not lose her sweet brother ever again now that she was granted a second chance with him. Still, it was better to have Wen Ning away from the eyes of the sect leader for now and she had sent for her brother to gather some wood. The rest of her family were going about their day, however, many of them kept stealing glances at the sect leaders with worry and distrust in their eyes. She had tried to look reassuring to them but didn't think she was doing a great job at it. 

“As I’ve explained to Sect Leader Lan, we only have healers and farmers present. We only seek to live here on the mountains in peace and have been living here without causing any trouble for the past year. However, we cannot do so when the cultivation world keeps hounding us and demanding for our deaths.”

She could see Nie Mingjue was about to comment on that, most likely to say something about how they are right to demand for their deaths because they are Wen-dogs or something akin to that, so she quickly pushed on to cut him off before he could open his mouth.

“We understand that the Wens have committed grave crimes against the cultivation world. However, understand that the war is over and those who fought against you are all dead now. My family and I are healers, and only sought to use our practices to aid the injured without any discrimination between sects, never once using them with the intension to harm. Why must my family be punished for the crimes of the Wens? Why are we being judged because of what Wen Ruohan did? Just because we have Wens in our names? How is that considered right? How is that considered just?” Her voice wavered a little but she quickly composed herself before looking right at the Sect Leader’s eyes, daring him to refute her.

Nie Mingjue stared right back at her, meeting her intense gaze with his steady ones and said nothing. For a moment, the two of them just stood there glaring at one another with Wen Qing daring him to explain the morality of the whole situation in case she was missing something absurd, and with Nie Mingjue silently assessing the Wen in front of him, reevaluating everything he had heard and thought.

Lan Xichen knew that his friend was always trying his best to uphold justice - to judge the right from the wrongs, and knew that Nie Mingjue was rethinking his opinion of the Wens right now and would take a moment to process it. He was actually surprised that Wen Qing was able to stand head-to-head with the Qinghe Nie Sect Leader and meet that cold gaze of his that had sent many cultivators fainting before. It was an interesting sight to see Wen Qing; small in comparison to the large, bulky Chifeng-zun, standing up and glaring back with equal intensity and not backing down.

It took a while, and for a moment Lan Xichen thought he would have to step in to break the tension between them. But right before he could move, Nie Mingjue broke eye contact first and instead of looking angry, his lips twisted into a small smirk, making him look like he was stuck between being bitter and impressed.

“You got guts for such a tiny Wen.”

Surprised that the glaring contest was suddenly over, Wen Qing was a little confused over the compliment but her first thought was: He’s not calling me a Wen-dog.

Lan Xichen smiled brightly, knowing that his friend was now onboard with helping out. After all, Chifeng-zun was a man of righteousness and would not turn his back on doing the right thing, even if his own feelings were against him helping out the so-called Wens.

“Fine.” Nie Mingjue gruffed, sounding a little reluctant but pushing himself to talk. “I’ll listen. But I would require one thing from you Wens if I decide to involve myself.”

Wen Qing was expecting this but nevertheless was afraid of the demand. Though, what choice did she have?

“What is it that you require?”

“After all this is over and you Wens get your pardon, I want you and your family to abandon your surnames and let the Wen sect die out for good. If you accept, I will provide a safe area for you and your family to reside in the Nie grounds.”

That...That was easier than what Wen Qing thought. She had no love for the Wens after everything that had happened and if abandoning that surname was what will bring her family to safety, she’d gladly throw it all away. In addition, Nie Mingjue has offered his protection for her people to be able to live without fear for their lives. All this in exchange for throwing away a surname that has brought nothing but pain and suffering, what’s there to even consider?

“That’s all?” She blinked, not expecting Nie Mingjue’s aid to come so smoothly. She had thought there might be more blood involved.

“Well, There’s more I’d like to say about Wei Wuxian’s cultivation methods but that’ll be discussed further in the future. For now, this would be enough.”

Wen Qing couldn’t believe her ears. Nie Mingjue wasn’t as scary of a man as she heard the rumors to be.

“Great!” Lan Xichen clapped his hands once, gaining the two’s attention and turning towards the small village. “Now that Chifeng-zun has agreed, why don’t we show him the village and have him judge for himself?”

Wen Qing and Nie Mingjue followed and the three walked into the village centre, only to find Lan Wangji waiting for them.

“Brother. Sect Leader Nie. Lady Wen.” He greeted with his usual decorum, his face as unreadable as ever to everyone except his brother.

“Wangji, when did you arrive?”

“After you. Went to see A-Yuan first.”

Wen Qing looked around and noticed that her family all had smiles on their faces and were each holding a white steaming bun on their hands. Lan Wanji must’ve bought them food again. Wen Qing’s heart lightened at the sight of her family’s happiness and thanked the heavens for letting them meet a man like Hanguang-jun. Or maybe she should thank Wei Wuxian for this. After all, Hanguang-jun was only here because of Wei Wuxian. Not saying that the man would ignore the Wen remnants' plight but it was because of Wei Wuxian’s particular brand of idiocy that caught the esteemed Hanguang-jun’s attention that led to all of this.

Wei Wuxian...

She can’t imagine what the bastard Jin Guangshan was doing to her brother but she desperately hoped that the man had at least a small shred of humanity within him to not further torture his captives.

....

Oh who was she kidding. The man ordered her family to work like slaves and even had them whipped for disobeying orders, treating them like dirt underneath his boots. The man’s lust for power knows no bounds and Wei Wuxian would be the one to pay for that man’s disgusting grab for power.

She shook her head to get rid of these thoughts. It was not helping her one bit at all to have them and she would rather focus on the tasks that needed to be done in order to get Wei Wuxian out as soon as possible from wherever the Jins had hid him. She refused to believe that idiot was killed, not when she hadn't seen the body.

“Qing-jiejie!”

She braced herself as a tiny blur of sunshine came slamming into her leg, grabbing them tight. Looking down, she was greeted by an amazing smile that she never would seem to tire of looking at and she found her lips lifting up in response. Little A-Yuan was looking so much healthier and happier these days after Lan Wangji had started visiting with gifts. Wei Wuxian would be overjoyed to see A-Yuan to be able to enjoy being the child that he is and not worrying about starving to death the next day.

Looks like Wei Wuxian was right in saying that Lan Wangji was a man trustworthy to depend on and just. The man doesn’t speak much but Wen Qing has dealt with her fair share of untalkative males. Her brother for that matter, but his was due to a lack of confidence whereas Lan Wangji was due to inexperience from dealing with people in general. But that’s fine with her, she appreciated the quietness the man brings with him and though the air was heavy with his presence, it was never uncomfortable.

“A-Yuan.” Lan Wangji stood beside Wen Qing, his brows tilted down a fraction and Wen Qing could tell he was frowning in disapproval.

“No running.”

Wen Qing was pleasantly surprised when A-Yuan nodded in understanding and actually listened to Lan Wangji when she barely make the energetic boy listen to her at times.

Lan Wangji would make a great father one day.

A-Yuan unlatched himself from her leg and instead of running, skipped towards Lan Wangji with a cheeky grin. Lan Wangji himself showed no emotions (or at least no emotions that Wen Qing could read from that face) and scooped little A-Yuan up, bringing him towards the well they had set up to clean his dirty hands and face even as those said hands were creating dark stains all over his pristine clean robes.

Lan Wangji would definitely make a great father one day.

Seeing that she now had some time alone with Lan Xichen, she took the chance to speak with him about the situation at Koi Tower and turned to him.

“Any updates about Jin Guangshan or Wei Wuxian?”

Lan Xichen nodded wearily and sighed.

"A-Yao had just informed me that Sect Leader Jin has been severely injured and has been bed-ridden for several days now. That was why he had denied any audience I requested."

That lines up with the gossip I heard today.  

"I heard." Wen Qing replied with no trace of sympathy for that low-life.

"The Jin Sect are even more frantic now in their search for Wei Wuxian. Are you sure he's even in their hands? They seem to be very serious in their search." Lan Xichen frowned.

"I'm absolutely sure. Jin Guangshan has him in Koi Tower. Men—Jin Guangyao should've knowledge of this too."

"A-Yao wou—"

"I'm sorry Lan Xichen. But I implore you to keep an open mind on this matter. Jin Guangshan is too simple of a man to carry all this out by himself and Jin Guangyao is his adviser, he would be in know of what happens in the Koi Tower. Especially something as big as a wanted demonic cultivator walking up to their door."

Lan Xichen opened his mouth to say something before closing it without a word. His face turned pained for a second before he signed. "I said I would take your words into consideration, but you're not making it easy for me."

"I apologize Sect Leader Lan. But the truth is what it is. I do not want you to be blinded by that man's disguise and end up regretting it. I'll say it again— Meng Yao is not to be trusted." Wen Qing said her words without trying to sugarcoat it.

Lan Xichen looked as though he had swallowed a lemon and he took a moment to look to the sky before turning to look at her again.

"I appreciate your consideration but until solid evidence is found tying A-Yao to whatever's happening here, I'll continue to put my trust in him."

Wen Qing knew whatever she said holds no weight against the trust Xichen has with Meng Yao so she said no more. She didn't want to push too hard and piss off the sect leader. He may seem calm now, but even the calmest man has a breaking point, especially if a person kept insisting that their sworn brother was someone dangerous.

So she could keep quiet, and hoped that the truth would be quickly found and everyone could see that the Jins were not as innocent as they claim to be.

She took some solace in knowing the fact that Jin Guangshan was severely injured and couldn’t believe that Wei Wuxian was crazy enough to actually do what he said he was going to just before he left the mountain. Thinking back, she should have known that that was exactly what Wei Wuxian was planning when he said it.

“I’m taking it with me.”

“Are you crazy!” Wen Qing exclaimed. “That’s what they want! All they want is power and you’re just going to hand it to them?” 

“Of course not!” Wei Wuxian laughed a nd pouted at her. “Have more faith in me Qing-Jie! I’m going to destroy the amulet right before their eyes, see their horrified expressions as their precious treasure gets crushed and then laugh in their faces!”

Wen Qing could only shake her head in exasperation. She should have expected that kind of foolish act from the man-child. While it was satisfying to see Jin GuangShan’s horrified expression, she wouldn’t have thought of doing it during something so serious and perilous in enemy territory. Only the idiot would dare pull a risk like that.

“I wanted to hold onto the Seal as a means to protect the Burial Mounds just in case but…” Wei Wuxian began, his mood turning a little sour and cold. Wen Qing knew that -- like all of Wei Wuxian’s inventions -- he took pride in making them and enjoyed showing them off but the Seal was just too dangerous to exist in this world and she knew that Wei Wuxian knew that too. It must be hard to admit that and even harder to make the decision to get rid of it.

“But…seeing how Jin Guangshan keeps hounding me for the Seal, it seems like he would stop at nothing to get it, even if it means leading a sige against Burial Mounds once I’m gone.”

Wen Qing nodded her head in agreement. Even a blind man could tell how much Jin Guangshan lust over power and a power as great as the Stygian tiger seal would be something no one but Jin Guangshan wants in his grimly hands and they knew how far Jin Guangshan would go in order to obtain it. The Jins have power and money in their hands. Destroying a small village filled with the starving, the weak and the old was no sweat to them or to their conscience.  

“So if he wants it so much--” Wei Wuxian brightens, his face changing so quickly from somber to delight in seconds. “I’ll deliver it to him in person and destroy the Seal before his eyes! Boom!” Wei Wuxian spread out his hands, mimicking an explosion and crackled with glee. “Hopefully the backlash from the destruction of the Seal would remind him not to mess with the Grandmaster of Demonic cultivation!” He laughed joyfully like a child and Wen Qing felt a whiplash when she turned to glare at his words.

“Backlash?”

“It’s nothing Qing-Jie! It’ll be fine!” Wei Wuxian quickly brushed the topic off with meaningless chatter and no matter how much Wen Qing demanded him to explain, Wei Wuxian would deflect it with more meaningless -- and infuriating -- chatter. 

I guess this was what he meant by backlash…

She thought now that she heard the extent of Jin Guangshan’s injury. As much as she took the news with glee at how much pain the Sect leader must be in, she was also very worried about Wei Wuxian’s condition because being the reckless idiot that he is, surely he would also get caught in the backlash and injure himself. But unlike Jin Guangshan, he would have no one to attend his wounds. 

That idiot! As if getting imprisoned was the least of her worries but now she’s even more worried of the extent of his injuries. Physical wounds should be no problem for Wei Wuxian, due to his absurd tolerance to pain even without his golden core. But the resentful energy on the other hand....

That could pose a problem even if Wei Wuxian was the grandmaster of demonic cultivation. If Wei Wuxian was too weak to control the resentful energy in him, it’ll wreck havoc to those around him and even tear his insides apart. There was a reason why demonic cultivation was so frowned upon and many who tried it had died in gruesome ways. Not until Wei Wuxian came along and showed the cultivation world that it was actually possible to be done but just not anyone could do it without repercussions.

In the time that she was left with her thoughts, Lan Xichen had moved away to talk with his brother and she was taken aback when a heavy presence stood beside her.

“I never trusted that snake Meng-Yao. Not after what he did to my men.”

Wen Qing nodded to his words but didn’t comment. She didn’t know what happened during the war at the end, with her too busy trying to get her family to safety and getting prepared for the fallout she knew was coming. All she heard was Nie Mingjue was captured due to Meng-Yao’s schemes and his men was butchered in front of him by the snake himself.

However, knowing what Meng-Yao was like under the few interactions she had with him, told her that the man was the type who would be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his objectives. The type that is devious and plots his way through every step, never getting his hands dirty because he is too cunning for that.

In a way, he was somewhat like Wei Wuxian based on their intelligence, wit and their willingness to use whatever’s at hand to achieve their goals but that’s where their similarities stopped. Wei Wuxian loves too much and his willingness to use his life for others was something she both highly respect and condemn him for. Whereas Meng-Yao had only strived to further his position for power through using others as stepping stones for his own gains, never dirtying his own hands but plotting from afar.

“Meng-Yao is definitely someone you can’t trust.” She agreed after a moment of silence passed between them. She still wasn’t sure about what to think of the Nie sect leader but she was glad that at least she wasn’t the only one who saw Meng-Yao as someone untrustworthy and dangerous. “Lan Xichen is going to be distressed when the truth comes to light.”

When -- she said, not if.

She’s not going to let MengYao get away with this. Not when he had knowingly played a part in his father’s schemes and faithfully carried out his father’s every order to try to kill them.

Nie Mingjue seemed to acknowledge her worries and sighed. “Don’t worry about him. I’ll keep an eye out and make sure that bastard doesn’t do any more harm.”

Wen Qing wasn’t sure whether Nie Mingjue meant keeping an eye out for Lan Xichen or Meng Yao, but nevertheless, she was glad to have someone like Nie Mingjue standing by her and not against her. As much as the man disapproves Wei Wuxian’s cultivation methods or even associating with anyone with the Wen in their names, Nie Mingjue is a man who strives to do what’s right and just. He would not leave this matter alone, not when there’s obviously something wrong with this situation.

The Jins were obviously up to something. That something involved Wei Wuxian and everyone knows Wei Wuxian is a man who brings chaos wherever he goes, even when he’s not trying to.

And now they have another ally by their side. Nie Mingjue is a worthy ally and someone she feels she can rely on despite her tendency of not wanting to rely on others for anything. It was how she was brought up after all, relying only on her skills and wits to survive another day with someone like Wen Ruohan always keeping an eye on her. But Wei Wuxian has taught her otherwise and now she values the thought of having allies by her side.

Hmmm....

Judging by the disturbed flow of energy she could sense beside her, she was sure that the man would not have long before he qi deviates and that would not do. The doctor side of her would not let this slide and before she knew it, her needles were out and she found herself smirking at the startled sight of Nie Mingjue.

“Sect Leader Nie, how would you like an acupuncture?”

Chapter Text

After ensuring the stubborn Nie Mingjue to go for a regular checkup with his sect’s healer otherwise she would unleash another round of painful needle throwing at the man, it was time for another meeting before they left to their respective sects for dinner. Wen Qing’s healing skills might be the best but even the resentful energy found in Nie Mingjue would take months to get rid of and then heal. Assuming that the man doesn’t continue to use his sword in the future, but that’s highly unlikely so all Wen Qing could do was to slow the progression of the resentful energy blocking his qi flow and slightly alleviate the pain from his body. Though according to Nie Mingjue himself, that was already something worthy of praise and the man had thanked her for that despite his initial attitude of not wanting a check-up.

It would be different if Wei Wuxian was here. He could've done something about the resentful energy hiding in the body but then again, Nie Mingjue wouldn't be here if it wasn't for that idiot throwing himself into harm's way in the first place.

The sun had now begun to set and the sky was now a gray hue, signaling a storm might be arriving soon.

"Lady Jin's son's one month old celebration will be arriving soon. All of us will be attending at Koi Tower." Lan Xichen reminded them.

Nie Mingjue groaned as though he just remembered about the celebration and Wen Qing guessed he wasn't looking forward to seeing Jin Guangshan again since the man didn't have anything against the newly married Lady Jin. Besides, it wasn't a secret that the Nie and the Jin leaders dislike one another or more like Jin Guangshan just dislikes everyone who doesn't bow down to his every beck and call.

"It'll be the best time to investigate the Koi Tower for any evidence while Jin Guangshan is distracted with the attention." Wen Qing thought out loud and Nie Mingjue nodded his head whereas Lan Xichen frowned, most likely disapproving of using a happy occasion as a distraction.

"But we will not be able to leave the hall easily without anyone noticing, seeing that we represent our sects and all." Nie Mingjue says.

"You don't have to. I'll go." The moment she said that Lan Xichen was quick to protest while Nie Mingjue just stood there in thought.

"It'll be dangerous and if you're caught you'll be executed straight away!"

"I won't be caught." Wen Qing said, her tone firm without any hesitation. "I'll go in disguise and sneak in as part of your sect members. I know where the secret rooms of Koi Tower are located so it won't be an issue with getting lost."

"How do you know that?" Nie Mingjue raised an eyebrow at that.

"That idiot Jin Guangshan offered a map of Koi Tower as a tribute to Wen Ruohan along with many other sect secrets in order to spare him. I saw some of it when I was there and memorized it."

"That disgusting coward!" Nie Mingjue growled and Lan Xichen shook his head in disappointment.

"Lan Xichen," Wen Qing turned to the man and bowed politely. "I know I'm asking a lot by requesting that you help me sneak into the tower. But I hope that you lend me your aid in this..."

Wen Qing knew he was putting the Lan sect leader in a difficult position. After all, their sect values their rules, and deceiving their fellow cultivators was something that's definitely breaking at least a hundred of them.

Wen Qing watched as Lan Xichen's expression went through a series of conflicted phases, stuck between wanting to do the right thing to help but also reluctant to break their rules to do so. It was resolved when Nie Mingjue stepped up and suggested that he'll lend Wen Qing his aid by letting her sneak into the Tower with his men while they attend the conference. All Lan Xichen had to do was turn a blind eye to everything and play his part in keeping Jin Guangshan occupied in the conference.

Lan Xichen reluctantly agreed with this and decided to end their discussion there but not before Lan Wangji who had been silently listening to their conversation spoke up.

“I’m going with Lady Wen.”

“Wangji…” His brother sighed, knowing it was hopeless to talk him out of this. All he wanted was his little brother to be safe and knowing anything involving Wei Wuxian, everything would turn to chaos if he’s found.

When he’s found...

As much as he didn’t want his brother to be involved with Wei Wuxian anymore than he already was, Lan Xichen knew it was futile to tell that to him because his brother is the most stubborn man he’d ever met. He also knew Wangji would go do it anyway, with or without his permission. So he rather Wangji knew that he supported his decisions and would be there for him if needed. It was all he could do as an elder brother now that Wangji is an adult with his own life.

“Alright.” Xichen finally said, prompting a pleased expression from Wangji that only he could see.

“Thank you brother.”

After all the farewells were said, the two sect leaders and Wangji got on their swords and left for their respective sects while Wen Qing stayed to watch them go until she couldn’t see them anymore.

While she walked back up the mountain trail, her mind was buzzing with something akin to excitement over what they discussed today. They finally had a semblance of a plan to get Wei Wuxian back and while it was a dangerous one involving jumping into the lion’s den, she was more than willing to do it for Wei Wuxian. Besides, she wasn’t alone in this anymore. With so many strong allies behind her, she felt like she could finally do something that was beyond her abilities.

Her thoughts slowly drifted to a certain purple-robed cultivator and she wondered if anyone was going to update him on their discussion.

Probably not…

Seeing how Yumeng Jiang was not close to the other three sects due to them focusing on rebuilding their sect after the massacre and judging by the current Sect leader’s prickly attitude, it wasn’t hard to tell how isolated Yumeng Jiang was compared to the other three sect who are tied by the Venerated Triad.

But he’d like to know where his brother might be….

It wasn’t any of her business to go out of her way to inform the purple sect leader, but something in her heart was telling her that it would be worth it just to talk to him again. It could be her stubbornness speaking, but she couldn’t bear to just leave things as it is with the sect leader. Wei Wuxian was his brother and still considered Jiang Cheng so even after everything thus Wen Qing felt the Jiang sect leader should at least be informed of their plans.

It would help to have another ally during the celebration. Just in case something happens and something will definitely happen.

Wen Qing was not a fool to think her plan would go smoothly without a hitch and it was always good to stay alert to the worst-case scenarios.

Before she could second guess herself, she reached into her sleeve and pulled out a messenger talisman that Wei Wuxian had created during those days where he had holed himself in his cave and refused to come out until Wen Qing threatened homicide. (Or A-Yuan’s tears for his Xian-gege, but threats of murder worked just as well for Wen Qing.)

She thought over how much she should say in the message before relying on the talisman and sending it away with a small push of her spiritual power. It should get to Yumeng by dawn, giving the Jiang Sect leader a heads-up to their plans on the day of the Jin heir’s one month anniversary.  

With that done, she had to start preparing herself for the task ahead of her. She wasn’t one to sit around and wait after all.

On the day of the celebration, Wen Qing felt like she was ready for war.

She was going to go into the heart of the enemy's territory and rescue someone who might be on the verge of death while having to stay hidden from the other sects who would no doubt scream for her death if she's found.

But no pressure, Wen Qing was ready for this.

What she wasn't ready for, was for someone to knock on the barrier at the base of the mountain.

It wasn't time for her to meet up with Sect Leader Nie and his group like they discussed beforehand and the Lans were busy with their own sect's preparations so she wondered who it could be.

Her surprise must've been apparent on her face because Jiang Cheng scowled grumpily at her and shoved a bundle towards her. "Take this." He snapped, because the man apparently could not express his thoughts like normal people could.

She carefully took the bundle and unwrapped it, hesitating when she saw the signature purple cloth of the Jiang Sect along with a clarity bell.

“What is this?” She had an inkling of what the Jiang sect leader was trying to say but she wanted to hear it clearly from the man’s mouth.  

“The Jiang Sect Uniform.” He said, clearly not intending to explain himself any further.

Well, Wen Qing has had plenty of experience with stubborn bullheads after being in the unfortunate company of Wen Ruohan and his sons. She could be patient if she wants to.

“Yes. I can see that.” She said in a tone that borders exasperation while still keeping it respectful in front of a sect leader. “It still doesn’t answer my question.”

She would have smiled at the constipated expression the Jiang sect leader was making as he struggled to form words but Wen Qing didn’t want to scare the man away, not when he clearly took the effort to arrive here and face her.

“I appreciate you informing me about your plans involving that idiot.” He said slowly through clenched teeth, as though every word was torture to get out but Wen Qing could see he was trying - trying so damn hard.

“He was your brother, I thought you might want to know.” Wen Qing provided. 

“Is.” Jiang Cheng snapped, startling her. “Wei Wuxian is my brother, we planned that fight for the other sects to get the hell off Yumeng Jiang’s backs.” He stated but his voice was softer towards the end of his sentence. “But thank you for taking the time to inform me nevertheless.” 

Wen Qing wasn’t aware she made that slip-up but it wasn’t intentional. She had assumed - based on the Jiang sect leader’s attitude and words - that Wei Wuxian wasn’t welcomed in Yumeng Jiang anymore. Besides, she wasn’t the only one who believed that. Wei Wuxian himself was devastated after the supposed ‘fight’ with Jiang Cheng, even though the man was all smiles and laughter, it wasn’t difficult to see the cracks under the mask. When confronted about it, Wei Wuxian had the gall to laugh it off and said that it was inevitable; that sooner or later, he was to leave Yumeng Jiang because he was too much of a troublemaker to stay. It was his belief that led Wen Qing to believe that Jiang Cheng didn’t consider Wei Wuxian as a brother or a disciple of the Jiang Sect. 

But really, could you blame her? The Jiang sect leader was not one to express emotions besides anger and irritation or anything within that spectrum of rage. It was easy to misunderstand his intentions especially when the man himself didn’t bother to correct others to the truth.

However, this was delightful news to know that Wei Wuxian still has someone out there who still cares (?) for him and considers him family even after everything. 

Now, if only the two could communicate properly, then everything wouldn’t be such a mess.

“I’ve informed Sect Leader Nie that I would be the one who will escort Lady Wen to the celebration as one of my sect members. It’ll be less conspicuous considering the Nie sect does not have any females in their party.” 

That was true. The Nie sect always only brought along a few of their trusted members to conferences or any gatherings of the sects. Nie Mingjue was not one to bring along handmaids or servants, finding it a bother to bring. He was already having a headache dragging his brother out of his room to teach him sect matters, he didn’t need more unnecessary baggage to bring along, thus his party only consisted of a few of his most trusted men in order to keep his brother safe. 

It was a little surprising that neither Nie Mingjue nor her who have not thought of that but the Jiang sect leader did.

“This one thanks you for the aid.” Wen Qing bowed respectfully, relieved that she would have another ally inside the devil’s nest.

The Jiang sect leader rolled his eyes and waved a hand dismissively in the air. “Save your gratitude until we get that idiot back. Bastard only knows how to cause trouble for others.” 

Wen Qing was sure that the last part was not meant for her to hear so she did not comment on it but nodded her head in answer before clutching the bundle of clothes close to her chest. 

She never thought she would be wearing the Jiang Sect uniform in this lifetime, and definitely not in this kind of circumstances. 

Excusing herself, she quickly headed back to the cave in order to change and grab what she had prepared beforehand for this endeavor. Her needles were a definite necessity, along with some herbs just in case and some medical vials.

She instructed Wen Ning to stay and protect the others, especially when A-Yuan started whining that he wanted to go with her too. Wen Ning was still unhappy with her decision to go into the enemy’s territory, but she managed to win the argument after a whole night of explaining why she was the best person to go instead of a fierce corpse. So Wen Ning reluctantly stayed behind to hold the fort just in case some persistent cultivator wanted to take this opportunity to do a sneak attack.

They can never let their guard down, not when the whole world still wanted the Wens dead.

As she was right about to leave, she grabbed a small box off the stone table, silently praying that she was able to at least do something right with her life with this small request entrusted to her. The item held in the box was light -- as it should be in order to fit an infant, but it carried a heavy spell imbued in it, something that Wen Qing knew it took weeks to perfect and craft. It was a pity now Wei Wuxian might never be able to present the gift in person himself but Wen Qing was prepared to do it for him. 

She tucked the small box inside her pouch and checked once more she had everything ready before heading down to meet with the Jiang sect leader. Jiang Cheng’s scowl was still on his face but faltered when he noticed her walking towards him. Wen Qing was also feeling a little self-conscious of the colours she was wearing as she had worn her sect’s colours throughout her whole life and knew that purple does not suit her well at all. But Wen Qing being Wen Qing, pushed through the uncomfortable feeling in her and raised her eyes to meet his. 

“Shall we head off? We would not want to be late for your nephew’s celebration.” 

Wen Qing enjoyed seeing the expression on the Jiang Sect leader’s face that wasn’t a scowl or glare or anything that made him look like a constipated porcupine. It made the man look more like a human and not like a raging tornado that made everyone take a step away.

Since she did not have a sword of her own, she was expecting to ride with one of the Jiang disciples but she did not expect Jiang Cheng to step up beside her and gestured roughly to his unsheathed sword. Wen Qing wasn’t sure if she should. It’s not that she thought the Sect leader would drop her mid-flight, but she wasn’t sure if she should get so close to him. It was already bad that she didn’t know where they both stand towards one another, she didn’t know what they both wanted and whether it was right to want it. There were so many uncertainties between them and the burdens they each carried was too much to involve someone else in their life. She would never burden her problems to someone else and she wouldn’t wish it on anyone else either. She already did it once when she relied on Wei Wuxian to save her brother and that ended up in her ruining her benefactor’s life -- resulting in Wei Wuxian to be unable to go home and was stuck with them to take care of.

She made that mistake once and she would not make it again, especially not to Wei Wuxian’s brother.

“Get on.” He snapped and she hesitated. That resulted in him getting more agitated and he growled. “We do not have time for this.” And he hooked an arm around Wen Qing’s waist and hauled her close to his body.

Before she could object or push away, they were already in the skies and flying swiftly towards the direction of the Koi Tower.

Chapter Text

The place was packed with cultivators from many different sects; both big and small. The 3 other major sects were obviously present, along with some minor known sects that Wen Qing could identify from their robes. There was the Moling Su, Baling Ouyang, Laoling Qin and the annoying Yao sect with their leader already making a fuss when the celebration had not even started yet. 

She was placed second to the back of the group Jiang Cheng had brought with him and she heard him instruct one of his disciples -- a lady by the name of Jiang Lian -- to watch over Wen Qing. She didn’t know whether to be annoyed that the sect leader didn’t trust her not to run off without informing him or to be assured that he was taking precautions to ensure no one saw her. Either way, she was well-hidden among all the taller and bulkier disciples but not in an obvious way that made her stand out. As the group reached the gates where Jin Guangyao awaits, she kept her head down and tried to make herself as inconspicuous as possible.

“Ah Sect Leader Jiang! Welcome!” Jin Guangyao greeted and the two bowed to one another in perfect posture.

“Jin Guangyao. Thank you for hosting this. I hope your father is well.” Jiang Cheng replied and that was the first time Wen Qing saw the man without a constipated look on his face but then again, he is a sect leader and he has to play nice with other sects to build relationships between them. And that would not be possible if he did not learn how to smile pleasantly.

Wen Qing was sure Meng Yao did not have any trouble with that part since that man had been born with it and used it to fool others in order to crawl up to where he was today.  

More pleasantries were said before they were led inside the halls where most of the other sects were gathered and waiting. Wen Qing was so nervous that she would be found out straight away that she dared not breathe as they walked to their assigned seats. She was assigned right at the back of the group, where she could quietly slip away from the hall without attracting attention to herself whenever she wants.

She slowly let out her breath as everyone settled and quietened, waiting for the host to start.

The one-month anniversary celebration was to be held in the afternoon as both the mother and child were resting at the moment, so in substitute, a quick conference discussion was to take place instead. Jin Zixuan, as well as Jin Guangshan were also absent since the heir was busy taking care of his wife while Jin Guangshan was supposedly resting due to the “attack”.

Meng Yao’s tone was so sweet that it sent shivers down her spine listening to that fake, cheery voice buttering up those gullible sects who were dumb enough to fall for that smile of his. Sect leader Yao and Ooyang for one were on the top of the list for most ignorant sect leaders of the century for how much they were kissing up to the Jins while the rest of the cultivation world were just mindlessly following along to whoever the majority is leaning towards.

Could they not see how many lies the Jins are feeding them?

Or maybe they do not care, turning a blind eye to everything when it suits them.

After all, they did the same thing when Wen Ruohan was in power, and it was only until the destruction of the Jiang and Lan sects then the majority of the other sects rallied their forces together to fight.

But whatever, Wen Qing did not want to dull too much on the past and focus on what she can do here; in the den of her enemy.

Sitting here listening to the people who wanted her and her family dead was difficult and it was even harder when they started discussing what to do with the Yiling Patriarch.

All the minor sects threw in their support in lending their cultivators in the search for the “evil” demonic cultivator, saying that it was too dangerous to let the man roam around on his own, especially now that he has shown that he could any time attack them just as he did with the Jin sect leader.

Wen Qing was clutching her fist so tight to stop herself from screaming out the truth. How could they blindly believe everything that was fed to them instead of thinking for themselves and questioning it? How could they sit here and condemn the man who had saved their lives – who saved countless lives – over and over again at the expense of his health to win them a victory that they would not achieve if not for that mam’s sacrifices?

Wen Qing didn’t know how long she sat there trying to control her breathing but she was glad she wasn’t the only one doing some impulse control.

Sect Leader Jiang’s hands were clutched tightly against his robes underneath the table where none in front of them could see. But from where Wen Qing sat, she could see the small sparks of Zidian’s glow hidden under the thick robes. She bet the other Jiang disciples would notice it too, but none of them said or even looked bothered by their sect leader acting this way.

Nothing was achieved in the morning’s discussion and Wen Qing was not surprised at how the cultivation world worked. The minor sect leaders would only agree to what’s beneficial to them after all, and many would weasel and prod until they get what they want.

A short break was announced and everyone got up from their seats and started to mingle with other sects to build connections. It was one of the major reasons why sect conferences were set up after all. And it was also the best time for Wen Qing to sneak off to do some searching.

She shared a quick glance at Jiang Cheng before she got a subtle nod for her to leave. She didn’t want to leave the man without any warning in case something goes wrong. The sect leader had already done so much to sneak her into the conference, so the best she could do was to let him know her plans.

Wen Qing stuck to the shadows of the hall, away from the crowd of cultivators chattering away, and swiftly ducked out of the conference hall into the wide hallways of the Koi Tower.

She felt a little bad that they were using the child’s anniversary day as a distraction to carry out their plans but reasoned that this was the perfect time to sneak in while everyone was busy in the conference hall and patrol will be light inside the Tower.

The hallways were wide and long, as expected of the Jins who flaunt their money and power wherever they go, so she needed to be careful of going around the corners since there would not be places to hide in such an open space.

As she carefully navigated her way through the hallways, she kept her senses up around her in case she ran into anyone.

She was glad she did because when she neared another turn, she had to quickly press herself against the wall and hoped to the heavens that no one turned this way.

"Uncle! You gotta kill him quick! I have no time left!"

Jin Zixun’s grating voice resounded in the empty hallway and Wen Qing’s keen ears picked up on the panic underlying his tone.

"Aiya...Patience Zixun.” 

Jin Guangshan’s voice made her freeze and she controlled the urge to grab the needles hidden in her sleeves. 

Wasn’t that idiot injured? 

At least that’s the story that has been told to everyone. And yet here he was now, seemingly fine. 

“We still haven't gotten much out of him yet. There's still time till the curse is in full effect."

She could almost feel the disbelief radiating from Jin Zixun at the blatant disregard for his life and there was a moment of silence before the fool managed to think again.

"Do you not care that your nephew's life is in danger?! Even if I'm not dying now, I still feel pain from the holes eating at me! Kill Wei Wuxian now and end the curse for me!"

There.

Wen Qing couldn't believe his ears at hearing that name spoken here. That means that she was right. Wei Wuxian was really here.

And that also means that the Jins lied all along and kept Wei Wuxian as a captive.

It was no surprise really but she couldn’t deny a part of her really hoped that she was wrong about this. Anything was better than being a prisoner of a power-hungry monster like Jin Guangshan.

She couldn’t begin to describe the raging heat lashing out inside of her but she was distracted when a flash of white brushed passed her. She could barely react in time to stop him as she grabbed Lan Wangji’s arm and suppressed a flinch when ice-cold daggers glared at her.

The man’s face was unlike the usual expressionless front that he always put up and instead it was twisted into a deep grimace, as though he was in pain. Lan Wangji was gripping his sword so hard that his knuckles were white while his other hand was gripped in a tight fist so tight that his fingernail dug into his skin and pierced it, leaving small droplets of liquid dripping down and staining the polished floor. Wen Qing couldn’t resist a small sigh at the sight of the man and felt her own anger subside a little. She wasn’t stupid to think she could hold Lan Wangji here. It must be taking every ounce of his self-control to hold himself here and not march right up the two and demand for Wei Wuxian to be returned to them.

No. That wouldn’t solve anything at all. Jin Guangshan would clearly deny it and would sprout some bullshit excuses to protect himself and then turn it around on them to accuse them of some crime they obviously didn’t commit.

What’s more, Wen Qing couldn’t let herself be found just yet. Especially not when she’s wearing the Jiang’s sect uniform. If she was found out, she didn’t want Jiang Cheng to get involved any more than he already had. It was the only way she could protect him, with such little power she has in her hands.

They could do nothing as of this moment but retreat back to the main hall where everyone was still mingling about, chatting with different sect leaders and trying to gain favour with them for the sake of a better position for their own sects. Wen Qing could see that Nie Mingjue and Lan Xichen were staying together at one side with Jiang Cheng hovering near them with a cup of wine in hand. The young sect leader was constantly giving out a heated glare at those who dared come close to him and she wondered how Wei Wuxian handled such a prickly brother, especially since their personality contrasted so much.

If Wei Wuxian was beside his brother right now, the air around Jiang Cheng would be much more tolerable and more people would be able to approach the sect leader. But as of now, the young sect leader was alone and as a sect leader, that’d come to harm him in the future for not being able to be political with the other sect leaders. Jiang Cheng was barely able to maintain a good relationship with the Lan and Nie sect leaders and it was mostly due to the disappearance of Wei Wuxian that resulted in them talking in the first place.

That idiot Wei Wuxian doesn’t even realise how much his presence meant to so many people around him and even though many called for his death, there are a few precious ones who will stand and protect him if he asks.

Wen Qing patted the pouch tied at her waist. It was filled with herbs and useful medicine that was convenient to carry around as she might need it to treat Wei Wuxian. Despite her hoping that Wei Wuxian would be fine, she was under no illusion that the man could be on the verge of death when they found him. Jin GuangShan would not treat his prisoners kindly, especially after they tried to bring him down with the Seal.

She stayed in the shadows while Lan Wangji made a beeline toward his brother. She watched as Wangji relayed what he heard to the two sect leaders and noticed how Lan Xichen paled whereas Nie Mingjue clenched his fists as though he was about to throw a punch at someone.

There were too many people watching in the hall and Wen Qing couldn’t discuss with them their next move. But whatever it was, Wen Qing wasn’t about to leave without Wei Wuxian with her today. 

Jiang Cheng seemed to notice the change between the two sect leaders but instead of going to them, he made his way toward Wen Qing. She kept her surprise off her face when the sect leader casually leaned against a pillar near her so he wouldn’t be drawing any attention to her to anyone outside. To others, it would look like the sect leader was drinking alone and the reputation Jiang Cheng had cultivated made others less willing to approach the man.

“Found anything?” He was talking into his cup, pretending to drink while talking to her.

“He’s here.” 

The change in Jiang Cheng’s posture was quick and it was obvious how hard he was trying to keep himself from lashing out. Zidian sparked once but it was quickly hidden in his sleeves. After a few more deep breaths, he straightened up and recomposed himself.  

“Come with me.”

With no explanation at all, he walked out of the hall expecting her to follow and she did, though she was wary of what the Sect leader was planning now that he knew his brother was held captive by that sleazebag. 

He lead her through some hallways that she didn’t recognise and though they did meet a few servants, none stopped them from heading wherever they were headed. Still, she kept her head down in case someone did recognise her. 

When they finally reached their destination, Jiang Cheng knocked twice before calling out.

“A-Jie.”

Jiang Yanli. Wen Qing recalls. 

Why would Jiang Cheng bring her to see the Jin mistress? Even if she is Wei Wuxian’s martial sister once and Jiang Cheng’s biological sister, was that enough to trust her?

Wen Qing didn’t have a choice in that matter because the doors opened and Jiang Cheng walked in, leaving her to follow or otherwise leave herself open in the empty hallway.

“A-Cheng. I’m so glad to see you.” Jiang Yanli was as beautiful as the rumors say and dressed in gold, she was even more so.

“A-Jie. He’s here.”

Somehow, Jiang Yanli knew immediately what they were referring to and her expression changed into one of sadness and horror before she composed herself and settled on anger.

“Then we must get him out now.”

The way Jiang Yanli said it was in no way a suggestion or a possibility, it was a must and they were doing it right this instant.

“Do you even know where he’s held?” Wen Qing decided to make herself known in the conversation because there was no way she was going to stay behind on this. 

Jiang Yanli gaze on her was one she was not used to. Wen Qing half-expected hatred or pain for what the Wens did to Lotus Pier but not once did Jiang Yanli treated her any different from any other person. She could see the stories that Wei Wuxian told about his sister were not exaggerated. 

“Jin Guangshan has a private dungeon where he keeps his captives. Jin Guangyao has assured me that the place has not been used for some time since the war but I’m guessing that’s where they keep the things they don’t want people to find.”

“Like a demonic cultivator.” Jiang Cheng growled out.

Jiang Yanli nodded solemnly. 

“Great. So how do we get there?”

“Are you crazy?!” Jiang Cheng shouted. “Jin Guangshan will kill you right where you stand if you are seen!” 

“Then I won’t be seen. I’ll go in and get Wei Wuxian out. He won’t even know it was me who did it.” Wen Qing has faith in her stealth skills after sneaking around behind Wen Ruohan’s back for all those years she was forced to serve him. She has confidence that she could get Wei Wuxian out without being seen, provided that there would be no outside interference occurs and Jin Guangshan doesn't make a surprise appearance.

“How are you so sure you can pull this off?” Jiang Cheng scoffed and Wen Qing was a little insulted that he dared question her abilities.

“I can. Or did you forget who was it that hid the three of you when you were on the run?” 

It was a low blow to bring up memories of those times but Wen Qing was forced to play dirty if she wants her family to survive what was to come. Even if it means pulling the debt card from the Yumeng Jiangs.

Jiang Cheng glared daggers at her for bringing that up but she matched the glare with a fierce one of her own to show that she will not back down even if the boy she knew before was a sect leader now. 

“A-Cheng.” 

His sister’s tone made him back down and Jiang Yanli came forward before Wen Qing with a warm smile that Wen Qing didn’t know what to make of. Placing soft hands against her rough ones, she clutched them tightly between hers.

“I never thanked you for you and your brother’s help then did I? Thank you so much for risking your lives for my brothers and I. Without your help, I don’t know what those two would get themselves into and I wouldn’t be here today. ”

Wen Qing wasn’t expecting that sincere show of gratitude and was overwhelmed by her words that she didn’t how to respond. 

She didn’t help back then because she wanted thanks. She did it because she’s a doctor and didn’t want any more senseless deaths to occur if she could help it. Wen Ning was the one they should thank. He was the one that wanted to help Wei Wuxian because that man had been kind to him and Wen Ning – that sweet, gentle soul – wanted to repay him for that.

She was spared from having to formulate a reply to her words when a loud cry resounded across the room and Jiang Yanli quickly turned to comfort her baby.

That’s when Wen Qing remembered the request that Wei Wuxian tasked her with before he left.

“Guess I won’t be able to make it for my nephew’s one-month birthday huh.” The fool said it with his usual carefree tone but Wen Qing could clearly see the forlorn far-away look he had on his face and Wen Qing couldn’t stand it.

“Don’t be stupid. There’s a possibility you might see them at the Koi Tower.” 

A very slim possibility, but a possibility nonetheless.

“Yeah..” The way he said it so softly tells Wen Qing that he’s not holding on hope to that and honestly, neither does Wen Qing even when the suggestion came from her own mouth.

“Hey Wen Qing?”

The tone should have told Wen Qing that she wouldn’t be liking what she heard but still, she answered with a hum.

“Once you get your pardon, would you please pass this to Shijie for me?”

He handed Wen Qing a small wooden box and Wen Qing knew what was in it. After all, the idiot did spend weeks hidden in his cave craving it; working on the delicate markings to the point of exhaustion. Wen Qing had to step in to threaten the idiot to be mindful of his own health and to stop giving everyone heart attacks for the worry he caused.  

She couldn’t deny Wei Wuxian this request as much as she wanted to. She wanted to scoff at Wei Wuxian’s stupidity and tell him to give it to his sister himself. But that would be cruel when the fact that the man was doing all he could to save her family and give all of them a chance at freedom.

So she accepted the request much to her dismay at the thought of the possibility of Wei Wuxian never returning. She didn’t want it to be true but it seemed like nowadays fate wasn’t so kind to grant her even the smallest decency of wanting to keep those she loves safe.

Now the box lay inside her pouch and Wen Qing has to hand it over without its maker being present to witness the exchange.

“What’s this?”

“A present for the young master Jin. Wei Wuxian tasked me to make sure you received it.”

She averted her eyes her the two Jiangs because she did not want to see how they would react. Even stranded and alone, Wei Wuxian still thought of his family and even went to the trouble of handcrafting a gift that might not even make it to the receiver. 

“My…” Jiang Yanli let out a small gasp at the sight of the bracelet and even from a distance, Wen Qing could feel the power radiating from the protection bracelet made to repel anything harmful from the wearer. Be it malicious intent, resentful spirits, ghosts or yaos, the bracelet can detect it and send out a blast to repel the attack and protect the wearer.

“That idiot…” Jiang Cheng muttered but without any heat behind it, only pain.

“Oh...My Xianxian…”

There was a moment of silence where the two Jiang siblings were trying to organise their thoughts and Wen Qing respectfully gave them time to recompose themselves before speaking.

Only she didn’t get to because Jiang Yanli spoke first.

“Okay. We’re getting A-Xian out today.”

Chapter Text

As far as plans go, they didn’t really have one.

The plan was; find the creepy dungeon, get Wei Wuxian out of said creepy dungeon, hide Wei Wuxian until he heals and they all go back to their normal lives planting radishes in their little village they painstakingly crafted with their blood, sweat and tears.

Okay, maybe the last part about having normal lives was not so accurate but Wen Qing would like to ignore the afterpart until they get there. 

If there even was an after for them…

But again, let Wen Qing deal with whatever comes when they come across it.

The one-month celebration for the young master Jin has begun, so Jiang Yanli’s presence was required, along with her husband. She promised Wen Qing that Jin Zixuan would be fair and listen to her story, though that still did not ease any of her worries. But she found that she trusts Jiang Yanli and so would trust that she knew what she was doing when she wants to bring her husband on board this rescue attempt. Jiang Yanli would try to keep Jin Guangyao and Jin Zixun’s attention on the celebration so they won’t interfere with her plans, however, they do not know of Jin Guangshan’s whereabouts since the man demanded that no one was supposed to disturb him where he ‘rested’ and that was the most dangerous man Wen Qing needed to look out for.

Jiang Cheng would head back to the hall with the other sect leaders since his presence would be missed if he didn’t appear for his nephew’s celebration, but he promised to relay information to the other two sect leaders and Lan Wangji so they were up-to-date with what she was planning. Wen Qing didn’t know if she could trust the two sect leaders to leap into her defense if something goes wrong but at least she trusts Lan Wangji to stand by Wei Wuxian’s side and that was enough for her.

Sticking as close to the shadows as she could, she made her way down to where Jiang Yanli had informed her of the dungeon's location. She was impressed with how Yanli managed to find that out, proving that Jiang Yanli was not just a petite, sweet-looking lady on the outside, but something more like her mother on the inside too.

The dungeon was located right below Jin Guangshan’s bedroom and Wen Qing would bet her needles that the sick man has a secret door that connects his room to the dungeons just so he could ‘play’ with his captives anytime he wishes.

Just the thought of it made all the hairs of her skin stand.

There were a few guards standing by the doors of the dungeon but they were easily knocked out with her flying needles and will stay that way until she takes them out.

Cells lined up the dank dungeon and Wen Qing shivered at how cold the place was. Even with a golden core warming her up, she could still feel the coldness in the air and she worried how would a person without a golden core survive in this kind of environment.

Jin Guangshan was really the shittiest scum on earth.

The first few cells she passed by were empty but the stench of human waste was strong in them and she guessed Jin Guangshan never bothered to have anyone clean the cells or even bother to give his prisoners any semblance of decency to have a clean place to sleep.

Wen Qing felt her heart drop with each cell she passes and she find herself half hoping Wei Wuxian was not here. She didn’t want to think about how Wei Wuxian was held in this disgusting hellhole for months with nothing but the Jins for company. Having to listen to Jin Guangshan sprout his bullshit in conference meetings was already a punishment in itself but being held captive at the hands of this slimy, lowlife worm would definitely make any sane man want to kill themselves – that or kill Jin Guangshan first.

It was at the last dungeon that she saw it – a small bundle curled up in the corner of the cell. It was hidden in the shadows so well that Wen Qing could’ve missed it if she wasn’t paying close attention. With bated breath, she easily unlocked the cell door and approached the bundle, hoping that she was right and her search would be finally over.

Black flashed across her vision and before she knew it, she was down on her back with an arm on her throat. Panic flared through her for a second before she stomped it down and took her needles out, aiming for the attacker’s eye to inflict maximum pain. A familiar pair of silver eyes meet her’s as she gazed up at a rugged Wei Wuxian. Pain laced through those silver orbs of his, accompanied by almost a wild, crazed hue that glazed his eyes as he looked at her.

“Wei Wuxian?”

The sound of her voice startled him and she held herself still on the floor as she watched Wei Wuxian slowly back away from her to his corner, all the while trembling and shaking. He made no further move to attack her and had returned to being curled up in the corner, though he kept his eyes on her the whole while.

There was no sign of recognition in them.

This is worse than I feared.

Wen Qing has seen these kinds of eyes back when she was still working for Wen Ruohan. She had seen those wrongly accused being tortured for information they don’t have, innocents being whipped just for the fun of it and prisoners being tortured to the point of breaking just because Wen Ruohan could. 

She had seen the people who had been dragged out of the punishment chamber with bodies so broken that they had to be put out of their misery just so they won’t suffer any longer. She had seen many who went through the hands of the Wen head executioner break and took their lives to escape that man. 

She had seen the sadistic smile that graced the face of the head executioner when he whip a poor man till he bled all over the floor. 

That smile – that disgusting smile that Meng Yao always don whenever he greets his guest – was one that she’d never be able to erase from her mind.

If Meng Yao was the one who…who did this to Wei Wuxian, that man better be careful around Wen Qing’s needles or he’d find himself missing some body parts soon.

She might be powerless to act against Meng Yao during her days with Wen Ruohan and what happened after, but she didn’t care about any of that now. No matter what, she will be piercing someone with her needles today and she knows all the nerve points to make it as excruciating as possible.

However, first, she would have to get Wei Wuxian to safety before getting revenge.

Pulling herself up to kneel, she kept her movements slow and kept her hands in view to keep Wei Wuxian calm.

“Wei Wuxian.” She tried once more. She had to believe there was still enough of Wei Wuxian in there to rouse some sort of reaction in him.

Besides the constant watch on her, Wei Wuxian stayed still with no visible signs to indicate he was responding to his name. Wen Qing feared that she was running out of time before the celebration ends or if Jin Guangshan decided to come here. Either way, she needed to leave now.

“I’m so sorry.” Without waiting for a reaction, she darted forward and swiftly pierced a needle to his neck, right at the point to put him to sleep. Wei Wuxian might’ve deflected that if he was his old self but the fact that he didn’t might mean he’s either too injured to move or he was too out of it. Wen Qing didn’t want to carelessly move him for fear of aggravating his injuries but she needed to get him to safety first and then she can examine him better in a nice, sterile room.

Wei Wuxian was so light on her back that she bit back another damning curse for the Jins and their cruelty. 

Just why did Wei Wuxian have to suffer like this?

Why did her family have to go through so much pain?

She quickly took back her needles from the unconscious guards at the doorway so that no evidence of her presence would be left there and proceeded back up to the hallways that Jiang Yanli indicated to her. 

They had pre-prepared a room where they would gather and discuss their next move after the celebration and it would be a good place for Wei Wuxian to rest.

Wen Qing locked the room and quickly put up a silencing talisman on it before putting Wei Wuxian on the bed. Now away from the dark dungeon lights, Wei Wuxian looked even worse with his pale complexion, dark bruises all over the visible parts of the skin and dried blood all over. The most visible wounds were on his head and arms, where it looked as though someone had kicked and stomped their way all over the fragile flesh. A few fingers on the right hand were broken and the left arm was dislocated and perhaps fractured.

If this was the damage at first glance, Wen Qing dread to see what was hidden under his robes.

Taking a deep breath, Wen Qing steeled herself and let the doctor part of her take over. All injuries were cataloged and methodically dealt with under her experienced hands. She didn’t know how long it took to clean up every wound from head to toe but by the time she was done, she felt drained and exhausted. At times like this, she wished she had her brother with her because she could use an assistant right now.  

Throughout her examination, she kept observing Wei Wuxian’s expression, afraid he might wake up and lash out at being in a new environment he’s not familiar with. She had to take out the needle keeping him unconscious because it might interfere with the examination so she needed to be careful just in case he woke. With the state she found him in, there’s no telling how Wei Wuxian would react and she didn’t want him to hurt himself further. 

Wen Qing was wrapping up the last of his injuries when a tap followed by two quick knocks in succession sounded on the door. 

Letting out a sigh, she let the newcomers in before swiftly putting up the silencing talisman again and locking the door.

“A-Xian!” Jiang Yanli immediately rushed to Wei Wuxian’s bedside the moment she laid her eyes on her brother with Lan Wangji quickly following behind. The two collapsed onto their knees on either side of the bed and Jiang Yanli gently took Wei Wuxian’s hands in hers tightly while Lan Wangji gripped his hands at his side looking as though he was desperate to reach out but unsure if he was allowed to.

“What the hell happened?” Jiang Cheng’s voice held so much anger in them but she could see he was struggling to keep himself in control. She felt she understood the temptation of wanting to scream your lungs out at the helplessness of seeing those you care about hurt.

With three pairs of eyes on her waiting for an explanation, she took a breath and began to recount what happened in the dungeons. There wasn’t much to say and she quickly skimmed over the parts where Wei Wuxian didn’t recognise and tried to attack her to spare them any more heartache. There might be a slim chance that Wei Wuxian would come around once he’s rested and surrounded in a familiar environment with familiar people.

As soon as she finished, silence enveloped the room as every one of them was lost in their own thoughts of guilt and pain. The guilt of not doing something sooner, the pain of watching a loved one hurt and the hopelessness of being unable to do anything for them while they recover.

“Why isn’t he waking up yet? His core should be able to help him heal.” Jiang Cheng spoke up and Wen Qing wanted to curse Wei Wuxian for putting her in this situation where she had to lie to the sect leader.

“The injuries he sustained are too much for his core to handle.” She explained, wincing internally at the lie that tasted sour in her mouth. “He’ll wake once he rests more.” 

And away from people who want to kill him. She added in her head. 

“Everyone’s held captive by Jin Guangshan’s ego right now. He’d suddenly shown up out of nowhere and just started gathering everyone’s attention with some made-up story on his heroics during the Sunshot Campaign so we probably have some time before everyone breaks for lunch.” Jiang Cheng says.

That’s not enough time. Wen Qing thinks. She didn’t want to move Wei Wuxian due to his extensive injuries but the two of them couldn’t stay here either.

There was silence in the room while everyone brainstormed on their next step when the figure on the bed let out a soft whimper and immediately everyone gathered around the bed.

“Don’t–!” But before she could warn them away, Wei Wuxian’s eyes snapped open and a cloud of black haze pushed everyone to the edge of the room. The resentment Wei Wuxian weld did not hurt anyone but only served as a barrier to keep everyone away. Even like this, Wei Wuxian did not seek to injure but only protect and this time it was to protect himself.

“Wei Wuxian!”

“A-Xian!”

Both Jiang Cheng and Yanli cried out for him, though Jiang Cheng was more angry at Wei Wuxian pushing their sister but that quickly dissolved into worry when he saw the expression on Wei Wuxian’s face.

“Wei Ying!”

Wen Qing had never heard Lan Wangji so emotional but she understood just how worried the Lan was at seeing his beloved weld resentful energy and hurt himself further in his state.

“Stop!” Wen Qing halted everyone before they could do something stupid like try to overwhelm Wei Wuxian even more than he already is. 

“Wei Wuxian!” She shouted at the black barrier and hoped the man still recognised his own name. She was relieved when the thickness of the black barrier thinned and she could see Wei Wuxian huddled with his head in between his knees. He seemed to be having difficulty breathing and it didn’t help to wake up in an unfamiliar room with so many people crowding him. But she hoped he would regain clarity soon as soon as he realise he was now safe with his family.

“A-Xian.” Jiang Yanli’s voice was gentle but strong as she ignored her brother’s attempt to hold her back and approached the gradually fading haze. 

“Xianxian. It’s your jiejie. Can you hear me?” 

Wei Wuxian remained still but the resentment quickly faded away and Wen Qing let out a breath of relief. Wei Wuxian was not in any condition to use cultivation right now and it was a good sign that he seemed to be listening.

“A-Xian. Can I touch you?” Jiang Yanli stood near the bed but made no move to move closer, as if knowing that any physical contact would be a bad idea. She seemed to know what she was doing so Wen Qing let her handle it while she got her needle ready.

Time passed in silence as everyone stood still, afraid to do anything that would trigger Wei Wuxian any further and after what felt like hours later, Wei Wuxian’s body went slumped and would have fallen over if Jiang Yanli didn’t dart forward to catch him.

Wen Qing helped Yanli lay Wei Wuxian down again on the bed and did a quick look over his injuries, letting out a soft sigh when nothing seemed to be disturbed.

“What’s wrong with him?!” Jiang Cheng turned his anger at Wen Qing but she was not fazed by it knowing how worried everyone was and tried to explain.

“After what he went through….” Wen Qing hesitated on how much she should say when she felt a pair of hands on hers. 

“Wen Qing. Please tell us.” Jiang Yanli’s eyes were sad, but there was also fierce determination and a promise of vengeance that she was surprised to see but approved of. 

“The injuries I found on Wei Wuxian’s body indicate that he was tortured.” Wen Qing saw both Jiang Cheng and Lan Wangji flinch at that word and Lan Wangji’s expression twisted into one of pain while Jiang Cheng looked about to explode. “When I found him, his mind was not in the right state and I had to knock him out. I’m not an expert on the mind but I could only speculate his mind retreated in order to protect himself from the further pain inflicted.”

“So…he’s gone?” Both Lan Wangji and Jiang Yanli’s expressions turned horrified at Jiang Cheng’s question and Wen Qing didn’t know how to explain the state of the mind well enough to give them hope that Wei Wuxian might be able to return to them given enough time to heal.

“No. Now that he’s in a better environment to heal, he might be able to come back to us eventually.”

“Eventually?”

“These kinds of things take time. It’s really up to Wei Wuxian. We can only be by his side to see him through this.” Wen Qing knew how difficult it was to stand by and do nothing while someone you love is suffering. She could patch up physical wounds and perform high-stakes surgeries to save a person’s life but things are different when it comes to the matter of the mind. 

In her years of being a healer, she has seen countless war veterans who never fully recovered from the terrors they witnessed at war, having to live with night terrors, frequent flashbacks and the emotional baggage they carry around on their shoulders. It was no way to live and many of them would rather escape the pain than live another day with it. Then there’s the percentage of patients who did recover but even they were never the same as they were before, having to live with similar baggage but struggling to live with it. 

There’s no question which Wei Wuxian would choose and she intends to be by his side through it when he wakes. 

When – there’s no doubt in Wen Qing’s mind that Wei Wuxian would get past this pain because that’s what Wei Wuxian is – a survivor. And Wen Qing is proud to call that man her family.

Right now though, Wen Qing should focus on treating the wounds that she can see and even that battle would be a difficult one considering the extent of Wei Wuxian’s injuries sustained.

“The herbs I brought with me are not enough to help his injuries.” Wen Qing reminded the group that time was still of the essence and they needed to hurry up and make a plan before Jin Guangshan figured out Wei Wuxian was gone. “I can only clean up his wounds for now and lessen the pain but he needs surgery.” 

“Surgery!?” Wen Qing quickly held up a hand to halt all further questions from the Jiang siblings before continuing. She needed everyone to know just how serious the situation right now is. If not done quickly, Wei Wuxian’s life could still be in danger.

“He has numerous broken bones, torn ligaments and sustained internal injuries that need further examinations that I can’t do now because I don’t have the necessary tools I need with me.” Wen Qing was frustrated with herself for not planning ahead for a situation like this. She should have known Wei Wuxian would be hurt and prepared accordingly for the things needed to help him. That measly bag of herbs she bought along was only enough to stench the blood flow and dull the pain but it won’t be enough to aid Wei Wuxian in recovery.

“I can fly him back to Lotus Pier this instant.” Jiang Cheng said urgently, gripping his sword as though he could fly off right here and now.

“No A-Cheng, you’re still needed at the conference later.” Jiang Yanli reminded him. 

“We can make up some bullshit excuse to explain my absence!”

“They might get suspicious if a sect leader suddenly leaves for no reason.” Wen Qing added.

“Then what do you suggest we do?” Jiang Cheng growled out frustratingly. 

“I’ll go.” 

Everyone turned to look at Lan Wangji who had been silent all this time but the amount of emotion shown on his face for the first time Wen Qing has known him was enough to know how concerned the man was for Wei Wuxian.

Jiang Cheng opened his mouth to say something but was quickly cut off by his sister.

“Then I’ll leave my brother with you.” 

“Jie!”

“Mm.” Lan Wangji bowed before heading to the bed to lift Wei Wuxian into his arms with such care and gentleness that Wen Qing approves. 

He looked to Wen Qing with a nod and she quickly followed him out of the door, glad to be able to finally leave behind this horrid place behind.

She could hear Jiang Cheng’s protest as she distance herself from the room and wondered if the sect leader was really that dense about the relationship between these two. 

They walked with brisk steps until they neared the conference hall and Lan Wangji seemed to hesitate for a second before continuing his walk towards another walkway that was away from the hall. Despite being so expressionless, Wen Qing found that she could read the conflict on Lan Wangji’s face and a flicker of annoyance went through her at how stubborn the man could be at asking for help.

Just like another idiot I know of… Those two really deserve one another…

“Don’t you need to inform your brother of the situation?” 

“No. Brother would understand.”

And yet, it’d be safer to update the sect leader of any information so that they can be alert of any changes happening and act accordingly. Having Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue in on this would help them a lot if the Jins try to start something and the two sect leaders can run interference to prevent them from finding out where Wei Wuxian is taken.

Feeling the need to shake her head, she tells Lan Wangji to meet her at the entrance of the tower before ducking into the conference hall in search of the two sect leaders. She manage to find the two surrounded by numerous sect leaders waiting for their chance to speak with them. 

Wen Qing hesitated for a moment, thinking of how she was going to pass the message when they were surrounded by so many people who would most likely stab her on sight if they recognised her. She thanked the heavens for Jiang Yanli when she put a reassuring hand on her shoulder and walked toward the two sect leaders.

“A-Jie will pass on the message. You best leave here quickly before anything happens.” Jiang Cheng’s voice by her side startled her, however, she gave no reaction but bowed and stealthily made her way out of the hall, making sure to keep to the walls as she goes. Lan Wangji was hidden in the shadows with the unconscious Wei Wuxian in his arms and he was already ready to go with his sword hovering beside him. 

Wen Qing swiftly pulled her borrowed sword out and got into the air alongside Lan Wangji as they made their way back to Burial Mounds.