Chapter 3 - Part 3

The Twins, the Peony and Xichen's plan

A few incense times later, Lan Xichen heard a knock on the door of the Frost Room as he was coming inside from tending his garden round the back of the house. He had previously returned from the training grounds and had received word from Lan Hanyu that Jiang Wanyin was resting in the shared guest room the clan leader had provided for the martial brothers. According to Lan Hanyu's report, the Yunmeng Jiang disciples had taken the opportunity to explore the Cloud Recesses, whilst some had opted to stay within the assigned guest houses. Within the same report received, the Yiling Wei disciples had not been spotted roaming around in the open air so it was likely they were either resting or they had gone to the Library Pavilion or were in another part of the training grounds - away from the Lan disciples. Lan Hanyu had suspected that some were simply exploring and making use of their free time. 

When he heard that knocking sound, his heart leapt in his throat and he found himself rushing to open his door, stumbling embarrassingly as he went. He hoped it was Jiang Wanyin at the door and he had come to visit after his nap in quietude.

'Oh. My Wanyin is here. My darling Wanyin has come to my door!'

He grabbed the door and in his excitement, opened it with such force it almost broke, causing a gust of wind to flap his robes and hair. 

Lan Xichen looked up and saw not Jiang Wanyin in all his stunning violets, but Lan Wangji instead, with red puffy eyes and hiccuping in small, stuttering breaths.

"A-Zhan? What are you doing here?" Lan Xichen swallowed his disappointment immediately, replacing it with the utmost concern and worry, forgoing his usual use of his brother's courtesy name and replacing it with his birth name (which he rarely did). He touched his brother lightly to grab his attention. His brother hated physical contact but Lan Xichen was one of the very few people Lan Wangji allowed physical touch from, and Lan Xichen was worried for his brother.

"A-Zhan?" he called softly. Lan Wangji breathed heavily, trying to find his words, however no words came out of his mouth, so instead he pointed with a shaky finger toward the interior of the room and Lan Xichen understood immediately, gently pulling him inside and closing the door with less force than he used to open it. He cupped Lan Wangji's face gently and wiped a few stray tears away with his thumb. 

"What happened?" he asked, quietly. Why was his brother crying? What the heck happened?

Lan Wangji managed to breathe a little, sensing there was a safety bubble now around him and all he could manage to say was "Wei…Ying….he's here." he breathed heavily, attempting not to cry even further. Lan Xichen feigned ignorance and smiled. "Really? He's here? Here in the Cloud Recesses?" he asked softly, face bright and wanting "clarification" to which Lan Wangji nodded, hiding his pained expression behind his sleeve.

"Huh, how strange. Where did you see him?"

"Cold…Springs…." Lan Wangji answered after a moment. He sniffled and wiped away more tears that were spilling from his glistening golden eyes. Lan Xichen, on the one hand, was incredibly happy to hear that his brother finally saw his crush again and his plan was going smoothly. On the other hand, his brother was upset and now he was automatically in "protection mode".

Lan Xichen drew his brother in a hug and cradled him like he was a giant rabbit.

"Well…Did you talk to him by chance?" He now wanted details. This was Wei Wuxian they were talking about. This was the gossip of the century. He needed to know everything that happened between them. He's waited long enough. He was always a patient man but he was excited to hear the gossip.

Lan Wangji managed to muster a nod, his face buried into Lan Xichen's robes. He had images of Wei Wuxian floating around in his head and he couldn't contain his moan. Every moment his mind lingered in the memory of Wei Wuxian - the sound of his voice, the colour of his hair and eyes, the shape of his lips, the furrow of his brows, the enticing sight of his half naked wet body - it was all too much for the poor man.

Lan Xichen rubbed circles into Lan Wangji's back, hoping to sooth him.

"That's great news! Did you tell him that you have feelings for him?" The older brother asked, hopeful. Lan Wangji was brought back to reality.

"Huh?" His voice was awfully quiet and filled with confusion. What on earth was his brother talking about?

"Did you tell the Yiling Laozu that you're in love with him?" Lan Xichen asked again, clarifying his previous question. 

"I'm…not in love with him." Lan Wangji immediately denied, hiccuping to catch his breath.

'Yes you are. You have vivid wet dreams about him pinning you against the side of a mountain and letting him have his way with you until you see stars because you found his Yiling Laozu phase extremely hot and now that phase is permanent which means you now have a Yiling Laozu kink.'

Lan Xichen was unconvinced. "Really? Denying your feelings? A-Zhan I can read your facial expressions which means I can essentially read your mind. I know how you feel about him." He gently chided, still rubbing soothing circles into the fabric of Lan Wangji's robes. He had to be very careful when touching Lan Wangji's back since he bore deep scars in the skin where he had been severely injured. It took a whole three years for those wounds to heal into white marks and Lan Wangji was still hypersensitive and very self-conscious about those scars to this day so Lan Xichen was being incredibly careful.

Lan Wangji let out a small huff, snorting. He had been caught red-handed by his brother and he surmised there was no point in denying it. 

'Ah well, that's to be expected. Just because I have feelings for Wei Ying, doesn't mean I'm going to be stupid and blurt them out loud. Nice try Xiongzhang.' Lan Wangji thought. He knew his brother knew of his feelings, but he still wasn't going to act upon these feelings. Especially not after what had happened earlier.

"What happened between you two?" Lan Xichen asked, switching conversational subjects. He really needed to know what made Lan Wangji cry. He hated seeing his brother upset and for him to be actually crying and act like this, something must have occurred to have broken Lan Wangji, since the Second Jade was usually composed and cold, never showing much or very little emotion and even keeping much of his internal thoughts to himself, only speaking when necessary. Lan Xichen hadn't seen his brother cry tears since Wei Wuxian's "death" and the time before was when their father died of grievous injuries and the time before that...

It was their mother had died. 

Lan Xichen was six years old when that happened. Lan Wangji was barely three. He loved visiting their mother every month and they both looked forward to being with her. Lan Wangji, although he wouldn't admit it, was the most affected by their mother's death. Lan Xichen could always tell that his brother greived silently every day, despite being so young when the death happened. They never saw their father since he had secluded himself from the world upon his marriage so it was their uncle who had raised them and bless his heart, his uncle only had the best intentions but unlike Lan Xichen who was considered the easiest child to communicate with, Lan Wangji was more difficult. He had always been shy and quiet, avoidant of people unlike the older Jade of Gusu and people's continued avoidance of Lan Wangji and the pedestals they were placed on at a young age was a detriment to their overall viewpoint on the world. They were affected by their status and upbringing in opposite ways, yet they were both felt so trapped.

Lan Wangji was quiet for a few moments, drying his tears and taking deep breaths in order to talk before he lifted himself off his brother.

"I saw him at the Cold Springs….he looked shocked to see me. I tried to get him to stay….so I could talk to him. He wanted to leave though. I was too forward….grabbing onto his wrist to make him stay yet he fought against me…..countering every question I asked him with avoidance…No matter what I do, I can't get him to stay. I want him to know how I feel about him, but he always slips from his grasp, slips through my fingers and I'm too cowardly to stop him." Lan Wangji broke into a sob, his heart aching and shattering. Lan Xichen's own heart squeezed tightly with the same ache, his empathy running wild. He hated seeing his brother's spirit crushed like this and it pained him to witness Lan Wangji experiencing the lonely emptiness that came with pining after his soulmate, who was so close yet so far away.

"I-I don't know what to do….it's been thirteen years… I just want to talk to him….I want him to annoy me again with his smile and his laughter…I want him to tell me stories and play the flute with me…..I want him to break the rules and drink alcohol, I want to chase him across rooftops, spar with him….I just want him to talk to me….. to acknowledge me, to say my name over and over again...I want to hear him laugh again so jovially it'll make my heart quiver… brother….please, can you help me?" Lan Wangji's voice was heartbreakingly soft, his tears streaming down his face as he cried, slumping on to the floor, back against the wall, curling into a ball, trying to make himself small and invisible. Lan Xichen immediately knelt down and embraced him, hiding him in his arms. 

"Shh….my brother….it's going to be okay. I have formed a plan to help you, though I should have told you earlier that Wei Wuxian was here."

"Why didn't you?" Lan Wangji asked under his breath, his body shaking, shoulders trembling. 

Lan Xichen sighed, exhaling softly. "I wanted to surprise you. In all honesty, I wanted you to stand by my side as I greeted him as it would have been wonderful for you and Wei Wuxian to speak cordially, but I instead decided to try and surprise you. That's why I told Wei Wuxian he could use the Cold Springs. I only wanted the both of you to reunite and talk to each other and clear up any misunderstandings. I hadn't predicted this predicament to even happen. I'm sorry A-Zhan, I really had good intentions and I just wanted to see you happy again."

Lan Wangji raised his head from his lap, eyes red and puffy. His cheeks were wet and his golden eyes exhibited a faint light. He sniffed and wiped his tears away with his hands.

"You tried, and I appreciate it, but I think I screwed up my chance to talk to Wei Ying after the Cold Springs incident." He whispered hoarsely. Lan Xichen shook his head.

"No you haven't. I invited the Laozu to stay longer than initially suggested and he agreed so Wei Wuxian will be staying here for a whole week so you have time to patch things up between you two. Oh, and I'm hosting a banquet at the end of the week in the Yunmeng Shaungjie's honour. I have a more personal reason for hosting it but I'm sure you and Wei Wuxian can let loose and have some fun together."

Lan Wangji could only nod, his quiet hiccups the only thing preventing him from speaking. He tried to focus on his breathing and soon enough, his hiccups had receded.

"Do you think….I still have a chance to speak with him?" He asked, shyly yet full of hope. His older brother gave him a sunny smile, one filled with optimism.

"Of course. I am positive that you - Second Master Lan, the esteemed polished Second Jade, the incomparable Hanguang-Jun - and the powerful Yiling Laozu; Wei Wuxian will be able to speak to one another freely without restraint. Now Wangji," Lan Xichen had slipped back into his usual use of Lan Wangji's courtesy name rather than his birth name, "Let us seek him out and I can let you two have a moment to redo your reunion on better terms."

Lan Wangji nodded more enthusiastically, yet his head moments were slow, as his face broke into a teary-eyed smile, as his molten-gold irises glimmered with some form of light. "I hope so."

~Interlude~

The two brothers had exited the Frost Room, now that Lan Wangji was not filled with heart wrenching sorrow that made Lan Xichen want to punch someone in the face as retribution for his brother's pain and were now taking a walk. 

Their destination:

The Elegant Room. 

The reason:

Afternoon tea with their uncle, the Grandmaster of Gusu Lan. 

For the Twin Jades, it was a special ritual that they performed with their uncle every afternoon and they had been meeting their uncle for afternoon tea and cakes since they were children. It was one of the very few times they could be less than perfect and poised and just an ordinary human being, conversing and laughing with their guardian and keeping the aging man company. The Cloud Recesses, although a beautiful and serene place, was also a lonely place to visit. And even more lonely for those who lived there. With the amount of rules and principles clan members had to memorise and follow without a beat, it would quickly become exhausting to uphold and loneliness weighed upon many young shoulders as they tried to follow in their seniors' examples.

Yet, despite the calm silence that the elders cherished, the younger generation preferred something akin to a not-so-hushed whispering - loud noises were usually prohibited but the youngsters always found a way to bypass some of the rules through their loving caretakers: the Twin Jades. 

The Elegant Room had a back area where the Grandmaster liked to have tea with his nephews and he would use this peaceful time to check in on his beloved children and to make sure they were overworking themselves to the bone. The Grandmaster had started this little family tradition when Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji were children - a little while after their mother had passed away. He told them it was to help them grieve without judgment and keep them company during a very vulnerable time in their early lives. So, every afternoon, in between their studies and the clan leader's duties, the Grandmaster invited his nephews to the back room for playtime and to bond with them - especially with little 5 year old Lan Wangji who had struggled with his emotions since birth - but as the two adorable children grew into fine young men and eventually well adjusted adults, the Grandmaster's afternoon family playtime turned into family tea time and neither the Grandmaster nor his nephews missed a single afternoon tea session.

Even when Lan Wangji was in seclusion, the Grandmaster and Lan Xichen would bring tea and cakes to him to keep him company and catch up on the affairs of the clan. 

A family tradition that would, and should, never will die.

On the path to the Elegant Room near the front of the estate, the brothers passed the guest houses and Lan Xichen slowed to a stop at the gates, his gaze filled with some sort of longing. He knew what lied beyond those doors and his heart attempted to steer him towards the house and to open those doors, to make him call out for the one both his heart and soul desired to see. Lan Wangji had noticed his brother falter and he turned back around to walk over.

"Xiongzhang? Is everything okay?" he asked with concern in his quiet voice.

Lan Xichen snapped out of his reverie and turned to his brother.

"Everything is fine. But I have been struck with an idea." 

This somewhat intrigued the younger Jade as he slightly quirked his eyebrow upwards. To most people, it looked like a face twitch, to Lan Xichen, it was a different reaction.

"What did you have in mind?"

"Why don't you head over to see uncle first and I'll bring Wei Wuxian to you instead. That'll give you some time to emotionally prepare and if Shufu asks whether or not we've spoken to each other, then you can tell him that I've been too busy." Lan Xichen suggested.

Lan Wangji remained skeptical. "Are you sure? What if Shufu gets suspicious or he doesn't want Wei Ying around?" he asked.

His brother nodded, smiling brightly. "yes. Trust me. All will go according to my plan. Don't worry."

~ early afternoon: around the same time Lan Wangji arrived at the Hanshi after the Cold Springs incident~

Wei Wuxian flew through the doors of the guest house in a hurry, partially dressed, his robes almost slipping off his shoulders, his belt haphazardly around his waist, his soaked breeches clinging onto his frigid legs, with his hair damp and his skin cold to touch. He shut the front doors and summoned a locking array to jam the doors shut so no one could get in. He leant against the doors, breathing heavily and he could feel himself slump down. 

"Oh shit. Oh shit. What the hell??" He swore under breath, tired out from practically zooming across the whole of the estate of the Gusu Clan to get to the guest house. Thankfully he had not been seen by anyone (or at least he thought he had gone undetected) so he wasn't worried about being scolded.

What he was worried about was whether he had followed him. He was sure that he didn't, but his racing heart wasn't being very helpful with his current neuro-functionality. That and the searing image of that ungodly beautiful torso with those rippling muscles, large yet toned pectorals, delicate pink nipples that were slightly hard due to the cold, that sun-flame burn mark that was seared into the very flesh, that pale milky skin that reflected the light from the freezing-cold water, droplets cascading down every crevice and curve of that body, was just too much. Wei Wuxian bit his lip to stop himself from moaning.

'Oh lord. Oh geez. He was so hot. A man like that shouldn't be that sexy. There's no way in all the world that's Lan Zhan. The Lan Zhan I knew was a shy, avoidant, cute fuddy-duddy who hated chaos (and me). That's not Lan Zhan….definitely not. That's someone who looks like Lan Zhan…..that man is far too sexy to exist. Lan Zhan is not sexy...noooooo that has to be him…..no its not…..Lan Zhan cannot be that muscular and built like a thick tree trunk….. he's a sour-faced fuddy-duddy....WHAT THE HELL?!?!?!'

Jiang Cheng had heard the commotion and rushed to see who it was, Zidian crackling to life with violet sparks, ready to spring into action to defend the guest house, still fully dressed but had both strands of black hair framing his face and sharp jawline and was utterly surprised to see Wei Wuxian in such a stupor.

"Hey, woah. Are you okay? Why are you dressed so scruffy and why are you wet?" Jiang Cheng jogged over, Zidian no longer hissing with lightning and he knelt down beside Wei Wuxian who was now slumped on the floor, feeling dizzy.

"Chengcheng…..I've just experienced something I don't think I should have…." Wei Wuxian was feeling lightheaded and weak in the knees, his chest contracting and heart hammering wildly. 

Jiang Cheng looked incredibly concerned. "What? What do you mean? What happened? Did you go swimming or something?" He needed to know everything that happened. He couldn't remember the last time he'd seen Wei Wuxian so stupefied before. Curiosity was getting a hold of him with every passing second and Jiang Cheng felt that feline urge to paw at his martial brother for answers.

"I…I saw him…" Wei Wuxian whispered, dumbfounded. Jiang Cheng looked bewildered. "Huh? Who?" 

"Him….Lan Wangji." Wei Wuxian whispered that name hoarsely, his throat squeezing shut. Jiang Cheng's mouth unhinged in astonishment, becoming baffled over this extraordinary piece of news.

"Seriously? You did not? How? Where?"

Wei Wuxian swallowed thickly. "In the Cold Springs…" he shivered. Jiang Cheng stared at him, violet eyes wide and his mouth unhinging open again.

"Wha-what were you doing in the Cold Springs?" he asked in disbelief. The Cold Springs were usually prohibited from being used by outsiders, as the only ones permitted to bathe in the pool of freezing cold water were either students attending the cultivation school or the clan's disciples and family members. Wei Wuxian using the Cold Springs was practically unheard of.

"Lan Xichen told me I could go there to relax and shake off any exhaustion I had in my bones. I was at the training grounds showing a crowd of excited junior disciples a bit of swordwork and Lan Xichen appeared curious as to what was making the juniors so excited, we talked for a bit and when I was about to head back here for a bath, he said I was welcome to go to the Cold Springs to meditate and loosen my muscles." Wei Wuxian cleared his throat, pushing his nerves down into his gut as he readjusted his sitting position. Jiang Cheng sat down next to him.

"Oh?" He was intrigued by this new development. Wei Wuxian looked flustered suddenly, catching Jiang Cheng's new tone. "Why do you sound intrigued by this?" his voice pitched with panic. Jiang Cheng couldn't help but smirk. "What did you do afterwards?"

"Why? Were you assuming I was up to no good whilst at the Cold Springs?" Wei Wuxian pouted. 

"Other than having contact with Lan Wangji unexpectedly, yes, I assumed something else had happened as well."

"You are unbelievable sometimes, you know that. I'm not the same person anymore. I am an adult, I am a mature man. I do not get up to mischief anymore." Wei Wuxian countered smoothly. This didn't sit right with Jiang Cheng however as he remained unconvinced.

"I highly doubt that you didn't take the opportunity to play a prank on the cultivation world's most famous fuddy-duddy." Jiang Cheng answered. 

"Nope." Wei Wuxian replied.

"Huh? What happened to my chaotic, mischievous shixiong? What did you do to him? Where's my Wei Ying?" Jiang Cheng was mystified. There was no way Wei Wuxian wouldn't resort to one of his old tricks.

"Your 'Wei Ying' survived Lotus Pier burning down, went through torture and stabbing from the Wens, had to survive on eating corpses in the Burial Mounds for three months, built a whole-ass sect from scratch with the remaining Wen Remnants that were under my protection, founded Ghost Cultivation, fought in two major wars all in the span of five years and was forced to attempt suicide because Jin Guangshan was a hateful, spineless, power- hungry bitch. Unfortunately, that Wei Ying had to grow up into this," Wei Wuxian gestured to himself, "Like you did." Wei Wuxian spoke, his voice dull and monotonous. 

Jiang Cheng silently agreed. Of course. Adolescent innocence couldn't last forever, no matter how hard Jiang Cheng prayed. He didn't wish to be reminded of the events that eventually broke their brotherhood in pieces. Time may have scattered those pieces, but Jiang Cheng had been determined to reach out again and fix what was broken, mending it with love and care - something that he had been deprived of. He was forever grateful that Wei Wuxian felt the same way and forgave him for his anger and the grief that tore him up inside and out. 

During that one year in the aftermath of the Siege, Wei Wuxian had been busy building a sanctuary for his new disciples and followers and recovering from his injuries which meant that he was in no shape to be making public appearances unless it was for discussions with some of the other clan leaders who had come to see him. Yet Jiang Cheng regretted not supporting his brother during the months leading up to the Siege. He was blinded by anger and stress and the mounting pressure from many different sides to take responsibility for his shixiong's actions and believing in the horrible rumours that had been circulating around different social spaces. If he had seen the kindness Wei Wuxian showed in protecting the Wen remnants, looked past the prejudices that had clouded his judgement and stood by his shixiong's side…..well he wouldn't have to have witness his own martial brother flinging himself from Lan Wangji's grasp to fall into a fiery death chasm far below them. Wei Wuxian had unfortunately mistaken Jiang Cheng's drawn saber as him aiming to kill him and flung himself to his supposed death. 

…..

The truth was, Jiang Cheng had fought tooth and violet-edged blade to reach his shixiong, to pull him away from the cliff edge and to bring him back down to safety. Lan Wangji had reached him first, injured yet desperately filled with hope and Jiang Cheng sprinted to the edge, after seeing his beloved martial brother fall. Lan Wangji had caught him, tears falling down his face as he begged Wei Wuxian to hold onto him, struggling to pull him up. 

But bloodstained Sandu had caused Wei Wuxian to mistake the situation and - 

Jiang Cheng's breath shuddered as his mind served him a painful memory. 

He truly believed Wei Wuxian had died and all those who partook in the Siege hailed him as a hero - much to his hatred and disgust. In those three days, Jiang Cheng believed he wasn't a hero, but instead a cruel monster who had killed an innocent man. And it was during those three days before Wei Wuxian had emerged still alive and very much bitter and filled with righteous fury, that Jiang Cheng saw the light and the ugly lies Jin Guangshan had been spreading - the rumour mill that had been causing damage to spur others on. And the truth filled him with that all-too-familiar unmistakable, blinding rage that threatened to consume him wholly. He didn't eat nor sleep. He just stood in his tent, frozen in horror and worry. The only good piece of news he received was that his sister hadn't died during that fateful bloodbath in Nightless City and had been whisked away for immediate care and it made his rage and guilt and grief even worse. 

He had been spurred on by grief and betrayal of his sister's supposed death during the Massacre of Nightless City to lead to Siege against his own shixiong and it had taken him that long to realise how wrong he was. 

After all that happened, they had needed space and it seemed after several months that slowly turned into a year, Jiang Cheng had come to realisation that Wei Wuxian had been leaving tiny open spaces for Jiang Cheng to take - small tokens of his affection that were still there in his heart even after people had tried to drive them apart.

'A-Xian….I'm sorry it took me that long to figure out you were innocent….that you tried so hard to stay true to who you were…..despite everything….I'm so glad we reconciled. You are my brother and I am so happy that you're alive today.'

"I know that. At least tell me something good happened between the two of you then? Did you two talk about your feelings? Clear up any misunderstandings? Bond over shared memories?" Jiang Cheng ripped himself from his reminiscence to get back on track, desiring for more gossip.

"Nope. Nothing significant happened between us." Wei Wuxian replied bluntly.

Had he noticed Jiang Cheng's shuddery breathing a few moments ago? He can't have done?

"What do you mean "nothing significant happened"?" Jiang Cheng cried out in disbelief. Wei Wuxian looked unfazed.

"I'm telling you. Nothing significant happened between us. What's the big deal?"

"It's been thirteen years or so since you last spoke to Lan Wangji properly within a decent conversation and the last time you saw him before you flung yourself from his grasp as he was begging to save your life, was when he tried to help you after you lost your mind and was going mad from the resentment that was still lingering inside of your despite having your Golden Core and you told him to "get lost". I have been waiting for almost two decades for you two to talk to each other - even if it's just for a brief few minutes. I'm not missing out on some juicy gossip. And besides, you had the almightiest crush on him back when we were younger -"

"No I did not!" Wei Wuxian interjected, gasping in offence. 

" - Yes you did, don't deny it Yingying, I saw right through you when we were fifteen. You had the biggest crush on him and you were always trying to get his attention by playing around, making gadgets and talismans that would get him to spare you a glance, you were always teasing him and makign jokes d then…..maybe before the Sunshot Campaign….after you suddenly came back from temporary death and the two of you just stopped being around each other all the time and I assumed that you had accepted the fact that he wouldn't like you back so you ended up distancing yourself whilst he was doing to opposite and trying to befriend you and then you two got into that argument about your new cultivation and then you two were really sour with each other and…."

"Is that why you were grumpy about me and him being around each other when we were younger?" Wei Wuxian smirked a little, interrupting.

"Yeah, because I was jealous that my own shixiong was gallivanting around the place with the human equivalent of a shriveled prune wearing funeral clothes whilst I was left behind and also I wanted to go on crazy adventures with you too but I couldn't." Jiang Cheng retorted.

"Awww….Jiang Cheng. That's probably the first time you've admitted you were jealous."

Wei Wuxian cooed, pinching Jiang Cheng's cheek.

"You could have come with us on our crazy adventures, I mean you did for some. Like when we captured Xue Yang after the Chang clan massacre, you were with us when we met uncle Xiao Xincheng, you got to meet the Chifang-Zun and he praised you and…..oh you joined us on that night hunt to Caiyi Town when we tracked down the Waterborne Abyss and you got injured so Wen Qing had to patch you up and from what I was told, you were stupidly nervous about her being around you."

"She was gorgeous. And a doctor. And I was a hormonal teenager who developed a crush on her. Leave me alone." Jiang Cheng pouted. Wei Wuxian laughed heartily at how adorable his shidi was.

"I mean I guess I was with you for some of those crazy adventures, but back then, you were always trying to go after Lan Wangji and I guess I was afraid that I would be replaced or I would lose you. Before it was just us two and we were joined to the hip and then the Second Jade came along and you fell for him - I don't really blame you - and suddenly I felt even more inferior than before….." Jiang Cheng trailed off becoming quiet.

"You were never going to lose me to some stuffy second master Chengcheng. Shidi comes first." Wei Wuxian hugged him closer, his brotherly aura radiating off of him and soothing the other sect leader.

"Also back on the topic of Wen Qing for a hot minute, I'm still mad that you never got to marry her. She was the whole package. Medical practitioner and all. She's Wen Rouhan's niece and Madam Yu could've had the Wen Clan under her thumb and I could tell you had a thing for her back when we were teenagers. " Wei Wuxian scoffed lightly.

 Jiang Cheng huffed. "Even if I did end up marrying her, it only would've been a political marriage, one of convenience. One that mother would have controlled."

"That woman…." Wei Wuxian scoffed under his breath.

"How did we get to this topic of conversation? You still haven't told me the whole story about you and Lan Wangji in the Cold Springs, so chop-chop, spill the beans shixiong." 

Jiang Cheng, eager for some gossip, steered the conversation back to his original inquiry. 

Wei Wuxian to his credit, was a little taken aback by Jiang Cheng's eagerness since he never really engaged in any sort of gossip that involved Lan Wangji as he was always opposed to Wei Wuxian even affiliating him or he would show dismissive or jealous behavior whenever Wei Wuxian would even speak to the stuffy second master.

Which was why he was confused.

He didn't mind gossiping with Jiang Cheng about other topics but he learnt to not speak about Lan Wangji around his shidi lest he received the infamous: Totally-Done-With-Wei-Wuxian's-BS-Eyeroll™️

He wasn't sure if it would be a good idea to ask Jiang Cheng why he was so suddenly invested and wanting to know if he had spoken to Lan Wangji.

'Nah. It's best if I don't ask at the moment.'

"In all honesty, we did talk, but it wasn't much of a conversation. It was more of an interrogation. And he grabbed my wrist and leaned in a bit too close for comfort."

"What did he ask you?"

"He wanted to know why I was here in the Cloud Recesses and moreover the Cold Springs. I told him that Lan Xichen suggested the idea of me going to the Cold Springs and I even said to him that his own brother had invited you and me here to stay for a few days. He looked really shocked and I just bolted. He was way too close….I could smell Pu'er tea on his breath and he looked so different…..I-I couldn't handle being in such close proximity to him with him looking like….that….." Wei Wuxian questioned vaguely in the air, hands and arms stretched out to convey his turbulent emotions. Jiang Cheng stared in wonderous confusion.

"Different how? What did he look like?" he asked. Wei Wuxian cheeks flared pink instantly and he began his tirade of ticking off everything about Lan Wangji's appearance.

"For starters, he had the body of a celestial being or a god that made him look like he had been carved out of marble that shone like literal moonlight. His abs were glorious and very toned as if he had spent the last decade or so doing one too many press-ups and handstands, his arms were like thick tree-trunks and if he wanted to put me in a chokehold I would let him and I would thank him. His pectorals were really well defined but not too big, and I actually had to stop myself from wanting to bury my face in his chest. He was majestic. He was gorgeous. He was stunning. His hair was silky, smooth, very shiny, and really long and I wanted to card my fingers through those long strands of ebony silk. It didn't help the fact that he had water dripping down his torso and his face may had been unreadable but his cheekbones were all arranged in the right places, his eyes were of the most breathtaking shade of molten-gold I ever seen, his lips were full and pale and kissable, his neck was thick yet slender at the same time (somehow) and those shoulders? Man! He was so beautiful, attractive even and his waist was slim and snatched…..I kinda wanted to grab his waist to be honest. I didn't see what his legs looked like but I'm pretty sure they were toned and long and very strong and if he wanted to put my head in between his thighs into a thigh lock, I would let him and thank him for that as well. This man made me feral and the way he grabbed my wrist almost caused me psychic damage! His hands were cold and strong, but his touch made my body go all hot like he had injected molten fire straight into my veins and my legs felt wobbly and I thought I was going to fall over and he was inches away from my face and his breath smelt so good and I was this close to kissing him! I wanted to kiss him so badly, Chengcheng! I was almost ready to give into my long-buried desires and make out with him in the Cold Springs but I didn't and ran away like a fucking coward and now I hate myself!"

Jiang Cheng was silent, processing all this information before immediately replying.

"You should've kissed him."

"Yeah I should've."

"You should've pounced on him and locked lips with him hard."

"I know. And I wanted to."

"You should've taken his forehead ribbon off his head, looped it around his neck like a loose scarf and yanked him forward so his mouth crashed into yours then allowed your hands to wander."

Wei Wuxian blushed deeply at that purr Jiang Cheng mustered as he uttered the word "wander", his skin burning with a delicious heat he hadn't felt in a long time. He really should've cleared the air when he had the chance, but now he's here, wallowing in self pity over his cowardice. He surmised he had blown his chances with Lan Wangji immediately and he would never have the opportunity to even muster up a conversation with the Second Jade ever again.

How pathetic.

"wait…I didn't tell you he was wearing his forehead ribbon….." Wei Wuxian spoke in a flabbergasted tone. Jiang Cheng shrugged. "I figured that he never took it off unless he was sleeping."

"Let's change the subject now. Let's focus less on my disaster of a non-existent love life and more on your love life with Lan Xichen." Wei Wuxian closed the gap between them with a swing of his arm around Jiang Cheng's shoulder. It was now Jiang Cheng's turn to blush deeply, a pure crimson hue of red that covered his cheeks, nose, ears and even the nape of his neck, the hue peeking out from beneath his black hair. Wei Wuxian found it quite adorable.

"What about it?" he asked, bashful, cutely avoiding eye contact. Wei Wuxian waggled his eyebrows and smirked. "Any progress in the…."sexy times department" as I'm calling it? Any passionate action between the two of you in the last couple of months or maybe the last couple of years?" 

Jiang Cheng shyly brushed his bangs out of the way and he bit his lip. "Not really. We haven't really done anything beyond chaste kisses out of view of other people when we're at the same events."

"Okay. Shame that hasn't happened yet, I was hoping for some juicy gossip. Uh….at least tell me there's been some….body roaming right? Searing touches and perhaps skin-to-skin contact?" Wei Wuxian pressed on, hopeful. Jiang Cheng bit his lip harder, his blush deepening. 

"There had been some….neck kissing…."

"Oh? Really? He's left marks?" 

"Yes….but they're usualy concealed."

"What? Really? That's amazing. He must be a really good kisser then?" Wei Wuxian asked, waggling his eyebrows in a flirtatious way, which made Jiang Cheng laugh.

"Uh….well, yeah he is. The kisses he gives me are always so soft like the velvet wings of butterflies and everytime we kiss and caress each other, I would get so light and airy whenever his lips touched my skin….I'm getting all dizzy thinking about it actually." 

Wei Wuxian was stunned, mouth hung open and eyes bulging. He knew what type of man Lan Xichen was but he never imagined that he would worship Jiang Cheng like this. It was probably what all of Lan Xichen's admirers dreamt about. He liked the sound of his shidi being worshipped and cherished like this - soft languid kisses leaving a trail of warmth in their wake, the smoothness of hands caressing every inch of skin, the sound of heavy breathing as lips locked together in passionate waltz - to think Jiang Cheng was lucky to experience this type of romance….

He deserved it.

Truly he did.

Wei Wuxian would be lying if he said Jiang Cheng didn't deserve to be loved and cared for like this, by someone as warm and sincere as Lan Xichen. It was what his beloved shidi needed, what Jiang Cheng had secretly craved for so many years.

Gods, he was so glad Jiang Cheng had accidentally allowed a courtship letter he had written to be sent to the Cloud Recesses. That was almost five years ago to the day. Wei Wuxian chuckled inwardly at the memory of his darling shidi screeching at the top of his lungs as he bolted through the farming estate that belonged to Wei Wuxian to get to him. It had been around late spring, early summertime and Wei Wuxian was out in his fields, watering his vegetables ready for the autumn harvest festival later that year when he heard an almighty screech. He shot upwards in a flash, thinking it was a ghost terrorising the villagers, but instead it had been a very red-faced, extremely panicky Jiang Cheng who had come charging through his fields, stomping in hurry.

He remembered fondly of the memory of his purple-robed shidi rambling on about a courtship letter he wrote on a whim when they were younger and he had accidentally gave the wrong letter to a disciple whilst he was half asleep and he told Wei Wuxian about how Lan Xichen suddenly appeared at Lotus Pier, looking gorgeous and regal as usual, holding a puppy. Wei Wuxian smiled brightly and nudged Jiang Cheng.

"I can't believe it's been almost five years since you accepted Lan Xichen's courtship. Remember when you charged through my farm, face bright red like you had eaten extra spicy rice, steam practically rolling off your head and you were screaming? I thought something bad had happened. You gave me a fright back then. I still fondly remember the faraway gaze you had when you told me about your date you had and how Lan Xichen was such a perfect gentleman to you as you sailed through the waters of Lotus Lake, eating lotus seeds and chatting casually. Then you both took a stroll along the embankment of the lake and you came across a really beautiful wisteria tree with violet and white hanging leaves and then we were sadly interrupted as you were getting to the juicy parts of the story and you never got around to telling me the rest." Wei Wuxian reminisced, with Jiang Cheng blushing pink at the memory of him being a panicky human grape whilst retelling the events that led him to that predicament. 

"In all honesty, I thought it would be improper for me to press you for more information so I never did, but now that we are coming up to the five anniversary of your beautiful, healthy relationship with the most regal, elegant, intelligent, emotionally available man in the world, I believe it's time to continue this conversation." Wei Wuxian suggested.

Jiang Cheng had a funny feeling he knew what Wei Wuxian was referring to and he got all shy again, averting his gaze to look down at his lap.

"I didn't tell you because I thought you wouldn't be interested in what I did, since you know….romance isn't really up your alley." Jiang Cheng admitted which made Wei Wuxian gasp.

"Hey, woah! What makes you think I wouldn't be interested in what you and the First Jade of Gusu did on your little date?"

"Probably because you're kind of get overly protective of others that you care about when it comes to the subject of romance. I've the way you acted when Jin Zixuan was remotely anywhere near A-Li back then. You do get pretty defensive, even now." Jiang Cheng replied. Wei Wuxian rolled his eyes affectionately.

"That's mainly because Jin Peacock was once a spoiled, prideful, prissy brat that needed a good knock on the head and the well-timed punch to his face to push his brain cells back into their rightful places inside that big noggin' of his, and I have these protective instincts that just activate every time someone shows any sort of interest in my friends, I don't know how to explain it. And you get protective of her too, you know. That's our sister." Wei Wuxian sassily replied much to Jiang Cheng's slightly annoyed amusement, which made him roll his eyes. 

"True." He muttered.

"Chengcheng, let me tell you something, and this is coming from the heart, not the mind. I am heavily invested in your love life, okay? I may not look like it, but I am. You've been secretly in love with Zewu-Jun since you were fifteen. Your crush on Wen Qing? I get that. She was the whole package and I would have been a-okay with you two getting married because I know that she is a capable and intelligent woman and she has guts. But…..I've seen the way you have looked at Lan Xichen in the past, even if those glances were brief, they were filled with a sort of longing. I know youve liked him since you were fifteen and everytiYouhe's near you, your heart does lottle summersaults and you get sweaty palms you end up seeing him through a rose-pink lens filled with flowers and sunlight.

I know that, deep down you've always wanted to feel love and to be loved the same way Shijie does and that's completely okay - nothing to be ashamed about - I would and will one hundred percent support you and guide you through your emotions and probably smack you around the head if you do dumb shit the same way you would smack me if I did some dumb shit. I know that you've been on blind dates to find a match because you buried your feelings for Lan Xichen and they have all rejected you for some stupid reason or they didn't like you or whatever and its frustrated you and then you got blacklisted and despite being an ineligible suitor you're still pretty high on the rankings list as it is but because of all those rejections, you almost gave up on romance or a possible marriage altogether and you even believed you weren't good enough for Lan Xichen because of a multitude of reasons and with his friendship with Jin Guangyao, it made you even more insecure on top of the emotional baggage you were carrying -" 

Wei Wuxian sighed suddenly, taking a breath from speaking so much in one go, "The point I'm trying to make here without going on a long attention-deficit rambling spree, is that I will always stand by your side and guide you. I will happily give you advice on how to proceed through life and despite my lack of romantic experiences, I am thoroughly invested in your love life and I, as your Da-Shixiong, your closest ally, your twin and confidant, would like to know what happened between you two at the wisteria tree. So go on. Spill the tea Chengcheng, tell me what happened, I am all ears."

Jiang Cheng steeled himself before he committed to his answer and his cheeks were adorned with a lovely shade of brother pink as he described to Wei Wuxian what happened on that fateful day.

"We….shared our first proper kiss under that tree. He cupped my face with one of his hands, and gently nudged me against the trunk and he pressed his lips against mine as he kissed me….he kept whispering how much he loved me, how long he had waited for me to notice his advances - which I had no idea about until he started pointing it out and then I ended up connecting the dots and then I realised that he liked me…no….loved me. He wanted me. He desired me. He was enchanted by me in every way…..I had never felt so….what's word I'm looking for?"

"Appreciated? Loved? Accepted? Desired? Adored? Treasured? Prized? Respected? Cherished? Revered? Worshipped? Venerated? Adulated? I can go on and name more synonyms for you if you can't find the right word to use." Wei Wuxian offered with a small smile.

'Let's gooooooo!!!!!!!! My shidi had his first kiss!!!!!! I cannot believe that was five years ago!! Oh my God I'm so proud of you Chengcheng!'

Jiang Cheng nodded eagerly. 

"Yes! All of the above. Every word you spoke of was what I felt like at that precise moment. He was so gentle and slow with his kiss, and he started touching me on my neck with his fingers and his hands went lower onto my chest and he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me in closer so that our clothed bodies were touching and in such close proximity to each other….it felt so amazing. And….uh….he told me he loved the way I smiled and that I was beautiful and that I was his everything - his heart, his soul - how much he longed for me…..Lan Huan makes me feel things I've never felt before in my life and I feel loved truly and deeply. I love him and I want to be with him and through some miracle, I am with him. He chose me of all people, he chose me. Can you believe it?" 

He was breathless after speaking so much, his heart thundering. Wei Wuxian let out a laugh and hugged Jiang Cheng.

"Of course I can. This is reality, not a fantasy or a sweet dream. This is your life and I won't let anyone ruin your happiness." he made his vow and Jiang Cheng could only smile brightly, hugging his brother.

"Really?"

"Of course. It's what brothers do, blood related or not. We've got each other's back."

"Always?" Jiang Cheng quietly asked, holding a clasped fist up.

"Always." Wei Wuxian replied back resolutely, returning the fist bump.

They both sat there in front of the sealed door, arm around each other's shoulders, for some time, basking in the calm silence that followed the end of their conversation. Jiang Cheng found it quite soothing and comforting to be with his shixiong, and leaned in to rest his head on his shoulder, closing his eyes for a while, feeling safe. Wei Wuxian didn't seem to mind and let Jiang Cheng snooze, leaning his head to the side to rest as well with a small, content smile on his face as he closed his eyes to doze off.

[Scene eight]

After a while of peaceful silence between them, Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian had woken up from their joint nap, their necks aching. "Ugh….shouldn't have slept in that position." Wei Wuxian grumbled as he staggered to his feet. Jiang Cheng opted to lie on the floor instead.

"Ugh….that hurt. Never taking a nap like that again." he groaned. He did feel a lot better now he had rested and admitted to himself that was the best nap he had ever taken in the last twenty years. But, his neck was now in pain and he swore his whole arm felt tingly from it being around Wei Wuxian's shoulder.

"I have not had a nap that wonderful since I was younger. Man that felt good but that was a poor decision to sleep like that." Jiang Cheng was wistful as he spoke whilst massaging his sore neck and shoulders. Wei Wuxian grunted.

"Yeah. I mean we all make poor decisions in our lives, it happens. Next time we take a nap, we're doing it on a bed or a chaise sofa. There are better options than on the floor in front of a door."

Both became silent after that as they awkwardly stumbled to stand upright, massaging their aching joints and grumbling to themselves about their poor life choices and stupid sleeping positions. Wei Wuxian shivered, his shoulders jolting. "Oo! Ah jeez I need a bath. I forgot that I went to the Cold Springs earlier. I'm now cold, and I don't want to catch a fever."

He sped off back to his room to run a bath which left Jiang Cheng to contemplate his current feelings and thoughts. He decided to pace around a little, stretching his legs and flexing his arms.

He looked down at his hand to marvel at the violet ring around his ring finger, with a silver chain attached to a brass, snake-shaped bracelet around his wrist. It was his family's spiritual weapon: Zidian. 

Zidian was a powerful weapon that could only be commanded by Jiang Cheng himself. When not in use, it was a lovely heirloom ring attached to a silver chain and bracelet and was worn as an accessory or some sort, yet it liked to mimic Jiang Cheng's emotional side, sparking when he showed anger or excitement. If summoned in battle, Zidian would form into a long whip that cracked and hissed with forked lightning, whizzing at high speeds and able to coil and curl with grace and ease. The current sect leader of Yunmeng Jiang was an exceptional martial artist and he was absolutely terrifying when striking Zidian at his foes. Many knew of the lightning whip's name and a mere mention of it would send shivers down a person's spine.

Except, Jiang Cheng hadn't always been Zidian's owner and master. In fact, it had a different master long before it had been bequeathed to him.

Zidian's previous owner was his mother and Jiang Cheng's stomach churned uncomfortably at the memory. His mother was the famous Yu Purple Spider and would wield Zidian in a terrifying manner, preferring to use it as a disciplinary weapon however she saw fit - mainly using it on Wei Wuxian simply because she wanted to. Jiang Cheng didn't have very many good memories of his family or his sect except his brother and sister and the disciples, since his parents were never really there for support. His father was too timid and avoidant, preferring to let his wife rule the clan and he spent many a-day showering his affections onto a child that wasn't even his own flesh and blood which would lead to many arguments between the clan leader and his madam, and his mother was too harsh and had many expectations, yet under her guidance, Yunmeng Jiang thrived. 

Until it was no longer the Yunmeng Jiang he knew from his childhood.

Jiang Cheng continued to stare at Zidian, readjusting the ring around his finger as he paced slowly, memories of the past resurfacing. As much as it hurt to admit, he missed those innocent days between him and Wei Wuxian. He missed the days he would joke about and run across the pier to dive into the lakes, laughter filling the air. He missed his sister's homemade cooking and Wei Wuxian's harmless pranks, training with the disciples until his lungs burned and his fingers bruised and bled from some much hard-won effort. He missed those languid days when his parents weren't bickering aimlessly. Yet….despite his wishes, those innocent days were a bygone memory. 

Nowadays, his sister was happily married with a wonderful son, living a fulfilling and lavish life, Wei Wuxian was the leader of his own family and clan, experiencing fatherhood and enjoying the peaceful cottagecore life as he once dreamed of, and Jiang Cheng? He had his responsibilities towards Yunmeng Jiang. As the leader of one of the now *Six Great Clans (yes six, not four since Yiling Wei exists), he had to maintain a respectable image and reputation. He did not wish for his efforts to go to waste after all that hard work rebuilding his clan from the ground up after Wen Chao had ordered a massacre.

The soft padding of approaching footsteps had pulled Jiang Cheng away from his thoughts and he looked up and saw that Wei Wuxian had re-appeared, drying his long, luscious hair with a white towel, now dressed in some looser robes. His outer robe was made from a gorgeous black velvet material with petal and leaf patterns with a red inner lining sewn onto the outer material. Wei Wuxian was walking barefoot on the carpeted flooring and he let out a satisfied sigh. Jiang Cheng had caught sight of tanned skin, the robe loose around Wei Wuxian's shoulders, which opened to show off his chest and abdomen muscles - toned and tight. The sun-shaped burn mark was clear as day on Wei Wuxian's pectoral, just above where his heart was, which was a heavy reminder of one of the many sacrifices he performed to protect those he held dear. 

Jiang Cheng felt a twang of jealousy spike through his veins. His shixiong was incredibly attractive - fourth ranked on the list of eligible suitors - and paired with his intelligence, empathy and his skills in martial arts and cultivation, he was what many people looked for in a partner…. It was no wonder why Jiang Cheng was pushed to succeed Wei Wuxian in every way possible. Not just because he was once the Sect heir, but in order to one up Wei Wuxian in every aspect of life … yet it never came as easily to Jiang Cheng as it did to Wei Wuxian…. He was always second. Second best at everything….and his shixiong was always in front, two steps ahead and leaving Jiang Cheng behind…

Jiang Cheng stared in awe, taken by his kind shixiong's appearance. He could never overtake him…..yet he could never hate him either. 

He…..wished Wei Wuxian hated him though. He wanted his shixiong to hate him. That much he deserved after all the pain Wei Wuxian went though. Yet, Wei Wuxian never hated him. He forgave him for his ignorance, his cruelty, his sharp words and harsh actions. 

Wei Wuxian's ability to be kind and warm to others was both irritating and awe-inspiring. And it made Jiang Cheng jealous. 

Which he also hated.

On top of that, Wei Wuxian didn't care about his ranking or his martial arts skills unless they mattered in the moment. And Jiang Cheng felt even more jealous over that aspect.

He could still feel the guilt and jealousy twist him open like a knife, wounding him, torturing him painfully and slowly, never granting him peace no matter how hard he screamed to repent for his mistakes. 

'….he's your Da-Shixiong, your brother, the Twin to your Pride…. a beloved leader, a skilled cultivator, a genius, a father….and everything you are not…' Those whispers fed into his anxiety further as he watched his shixiong dry his hair before placing the towel on a rack near the entryway of the hallway that led to his bedroom. A disciple must have placed the rack there whilst either Wei Wuxian was out or Jiang Cheng had been originally napping in his room before Wei Wuxian's return.

"That bath was nice and warm. I needed that so badly." he approached the Yunmeng sect leader with a dazzling smile and a skip in his step.

"New robe?" Jiang Cheng asked out of the blue, trying to ignore the heavy cloud of negative thoughts: jealousy, anxiety, sadness, guilt, grief, self-doubt; that were piling up. Wei Wuxian looked down and played with the collar. "No, it's an older robe, but it's one of my favourites. I call this one: "the sexy lounging-around robe". It's a good name for it actually." 

Jiang Cheng had to admit his shixiong looked stunning in that particular robe and it unfortunately made that twang of jealousy grow further.

'He's simply beautiful, charming, kind and powerful…..why can't I be like him? Why can't I be charming and charismatic and desired as much as him? Why am I always in his shadow? Why am I the coward that gets left behind…. Why must I still suffer with this guilt? Why can't he hate me for what I did? Why….why….why….why….why -'

"Chengcheng? You good? What's wro- oh. Hold on…."

Jiang Cheng felt his mind buzz softly and heard a familiar voice inside his brain, vibrating calmly. 

There was a special trick that Wei Wuxian had been gifted with when he formed his golden core, a trick that only he and Jiang Cheng shared as their golden cores had formed at the same time and the same day of the same year. As they were basically twins in their own right, they both had the ability to telepathically communicate with each other. Sometimes communication between them was easier to do in the mind rather than using words spoken aloud.

It was also super funny to gauge other people's reactions when they did telepathically communicate since they both had a habit of speaking with their eyes and facial expressions. Some would display confusion whilst others were dismissive. Some even were intrigued by this form of communication between the Shaungjie and would attempt to learn and translate their facial expressions into actual words for easier understanding- to no avail.

The only person who had come close to truly understanding the martial brothers' telepathic gossip sessions was their beloved sister. And the only person who actually knows what the Yunmeng Shaungjie are saying to each other is the one with Telepathy and she won't be named right now.

"What's this horrible cloud doing here again?"

Jiang Cheng could feel the formation of a shadowy creature lurking in his head, glowing red eyes trained and poised on the growing bundle of hurtful thoughts and feelings that were clogging his mind. This shadowy creature possessed four long legs and several fluffy appendages that formed some fan-shape, each appendage extending outward from the creature's lower back. Pointed ears flicked and twitched with each sound the gurgle of hurtful thoughts spewed and the creature doused in shadow conjured up a long polearm weapon in its mouth, held in between its sharp jaws. The creature swung the weapon at the negative thought bubble and…

BOINK.

Jiang Cheng let out a bemused sigh.

"Why is Shadow FoxXian bonking my negative thoughts?" Jiang Cheng asked, now fully understanding what the shadowy shape currently occupying his head was - it was a fox with multiple tails inside his mind, attacking those nasty feelings and squishing them like bugs.

To Wei Wuxian and in extension, the fox spirit that was inside his head, those hurtful self-deprecating thoughts were a threat that needed to be eliminated.

"We both know what you're like when those types of thoughts take over your mind. And as your shixiong, it is my duty to ensure that you don't spiral into an emotional breakdown."

Jiang Cheng pouted before bursting into laughter. "A-Xian!" He giggled heartily leaning onto Wei Wuxian and allowing himself to be hugged.

"You have no idea how much that means to me…" He whispered, trying hard not to cry at that moment. Wei Wuxian returned his hug and soothed him.

"Hey, if you want to, you can take a bath and get dressed into some more comfortable clothes. And then afterwards we can meditate for a bit and have tea and cake if you fancy?" Wei Wuxian suggested. Jiang Chrng mulled over this and pulled away from the hug to breathe normally again and nodded, his lips curling into a pleasant smile, all previous negative thoughts that were consuming him now flung out of the proverbial window.

"Yeah, I'll go do that."

~❤️💜~

Jiang Cheng had re-emerged from his temporary room, now dressed in a more loose-fitting robe made from a deep bluish-purple satin that swished around his (thankfully) covered legs as he walked, as he too wanted to feel less restricted. His hair was also loose and free, long locks of shiny ebony cascading down his back so wonderfully and he sported his twin bangs that framed his sharp, defined jawline and slender face quite beautifully. He had tied some of his hair into a bun adorned with a ribbon that matched the colour and silky sheen of his chosen robe and the colour complimented his skin tone rather well.

Wei Wuxian had taken that time to build a makeshift altar for prayer and meditation so that they could focus on clearing out any leftover ghost residue that had clung to them. The calming aura and atmosphere of the Cloud Recesses may had gotten a head start on the spiritual cleansing, but Wei Wuxian wanted to be thorough.

Wei Wuxian was already by the makeshift altar as Jiang Cheng walked into the main foyer of the guest house and Wei Wuxian whistled as soon as his eyes fell upon Jiang Cheng.

"Oh, why hello there, handsome." He teased, seeing Jiang Cheng's new outfit. Jiang Cheng flushed red immediately.

"Stop." He affectionately smacked Wei Wuxian on his arm. The deep blue silk robe was open, showing off a sculpted tanned chest with several deep scars that looked jagged compared to the smoothness of the surrounding skin. Jiang Cheng was usually incredibly self-conscious about his body, especially his scars so he would always make an effort to cover up normally. But since it was just him and his shixiong, he figured he could show off a bit more skin. 

His body was still quite pale in comparison to Wei Wuxian's complexion, most likely because Jiang Cheng doesn't spend all of his time outdoors and is instead stuck indoors with his sect duties, but he does manage to get a tan every now and again in the summer months and thankfully, he had spent enough time outdoors recently to finally have less pale skin.

"My gods, you look incredible." Wei Wuxian praised, eyeing up the tanned, sculpted chest. His pink lips curled into an awe-struck smile as he held up his hands and placed them in the centre of Jiang Cheng's abdomen, feeling the taut muscles beneath the smooth skin. Jiang Cheng's breath hitched a little, surprised by this but he didnt smack Wei Wuxian's hands away. Insead he let him splay his fingers out and caress his upper torso, feeling quite proud of himself in that moment. 

Wei Wuxian's hands had wandered up from the centre of Jiang Cheng's abdomen to his broad shoulders to play with his robe.

"Someone's been keeping to their workout regime. You must divulge your secrets to me, darling shidi." Wei Wuxian chuckled lightly. 

Jiang Cheng couldn't resist rolling his eyes once again.

"A magician never reveals his secrets." He playfully teased back, which made Wei Wuxian laugh.

"True. Very true. I'm being serious though, you look incredible. You look like a god carved from marble. And your skin looks so smooth and healthy….damn you have been taking care of yourself. Such a vision. You know if Lan Xichen saw this work of art he would not be able to keep his hands to himself. That man would be all over you in a matter of seconds." 

Jiang Cheng blushed hard, his skin prickling with heat. "I'm sure he has more restraint than what you've described, Yingying, he's a Lan afterall."

"True. however, as we have previously established, he's not afraid to worship you in your entirety. I'm surprised he's managed to not take your virginity though in these past five years."

"Yeah….In all honesty, I kinda…uhh…...would like for that to happen ….maybe we'll get a chance to take things further in our relationship whilst we're here on our little week long visit?" Jiang Cheng playfully, even shyly suggested, pursing his lips.

Wei Wuxian started making excitable gremlin noises. "Can you imagine? Oh you would not be able to walk for the rest of the week if Zewu-Jun himself made love to you."

The both of them dissolved into fits of giggles and Wei Wuxian silently and discreetly disabled the locking array on that door as he hoped Lan Xichen would find the time to visit and he and Jiang Cheng could get down to business.

"Let's meditate for a bit. I think I'm still a bit groggy." Wei Wuxian suggested and he took his shidi's hand and led Jiang Cheng to his little altar for meditation.

The altar had a plain, round brass incense burner that was currently letting off some smoke from the fragrant incense sticks, with the burner surrounded by magnolia petals. Jiang Cheng breathed in the incense smoke, allowing it to cleanse his body. He immediately felt lighter and more at ease thanks to the incense smoke and he tuned out the world, lost in his own little bubble. 

He acutely felt the light brush of fingers against his thigh and he hummed, knowing who that was. His mind buzzed suddenly, another telepathic connection had been created.

"A-Xian? What's wrong?"

"Nothing. Just double checking you're still here. I wasn't 100% sure about the strength of the incense from the sticks but I'm glad you're still breathing normally."

"Is this a new type of incense you're using?"

"Kinda. Madam Zi gifted a full box of them to me a few years back and I barely used them because of how rare they are."

"Seriously?"

"Yep. They're made by Zhu clan in the Xiangtao region near Yengfao Valley. They're incredibly expensive and the materials used to make the burner and the sticks can only be found in the region itself. The Zhu clan are quite well off because of this business. Many cultivators seek their incense out because of their special cleansing properties."

"Damn I've got to get my hands on a set. These incense sticks are working wonders for my meridians."

"I have got quite a lot back home. They last for a very long time. I'll bring a box of them next time I visit Lotus Pier."

"I would love that."

"Wanyin? Are you busy?" that soft, beautiful voice - so clear and radiant - called out and started Jiang Cheng, which made his shoulders quake.

He opened his eyes as the telepathic connection broke between the martial brothers and he swivelled around to see Lan Xichen approach, with an apologetic smile gracing his heavenly features. 

'Oh he is so handsome.'

"Zewu-Jun, hello." he greeted and stood up, brushing down the robe he wore and making himself more presentable in front of his host. Wei Wuxian had also noticed the new presence and he proceeded to stand up.

"Lan Xichen, you're back." he lightly commented.

"That I am. Forgive me for disappearing so suddenly this morning, I'm sure your disciples mentioned it?"

"They did. We don't mind though, you're a busy person. It also gave us some time to settle in."

Lan Xichen stepped forward, his lovely smile still on his face and he got close enough to Jiang Cheng to take hold of his hand. Wei Wuxian, sensing what was about to happen, scurried off with a gleeful giggle to give the lovebirds their privacy.

"I'm sorry I haven't been able to personally attend to you Wanyin, I hope you've been comfortable thus far?"

"I have. I really don't mind though, I know you're a busy man with a lot of responsibilities. Though….it's good to finally be able to speak with you informally, Huan." Jiang Cheng purred, the single syllable of Lan Xichen's birth name rolling off his tongue so effortlessly. It made Lan Xichen go bright pink.

"Wanyin….must you be so tantalising?"

Lan Xichen chided gently, affection dripping so thick in his voice which made Jiang Cheng shiver.

"I'm tantalising? Shouldn't that make me feel out of reach to you?" 

He asked, his voice still that seductive purr. He drew closer into Lan Xichen's embrace and he bought his face closer, his violet eyes a shimmering silver hue. In Lan Xichen's eyes, such violet eyes were more beautiful than diamonds. 

Jiang Cheng was like a divine being. So warm to touch and so wonderful to behold.

"So close yet so far from me, my love…." Lan Xichen purred in response, his breath fanning over Jiang Cheng as he allowed the gravitational pull between them to move them closer. Their lips were barely touching before an excited squeal freaked Jiang Cheng out and he pushed Lan Xichen away, panic rushing into his veins. He brushed himself down just as Wei Wuxian came bounding in like an excited puppy and he leapt towards his shidi, embracing him.

"Shidi!!! Did anything spicy happen whilst I was gone?? Did you finally kiss him!?" He started pressing Jiang Cheng for answers, pelting him with excitable questions with a gleaming grin and sparkly eyes. Jiang Cheng huffed and put a hand over Wei Wuxian's mouth to literally make him stop talking.

"I would have if you didn't suddenly interrupt us." 

"What?" came the muffled question.

Wei Wuxian was stunned and removed Jiang Cheng's hand from his mouth so he could speak. "You mean I accidentally interrupted the long awaited Xicheng spicy times!?" Jiang Cheng simply rolled his eyes and nodded. 

"I'M SORRY SHIDI!!!" Wei Wuxian wailed as he clung onto Jiang Cheng, crying apologetically, with Jiang Cheng trying to pry his shixiong off of him.

"Wei Wuxian!" He spat with playful mirth as he spun around, wrestling with Wei Wuxian. Lan Xichen couldn't help but laugh behind his sleeve as he watched in affectionate amusement over the Shaungjie's antics.

Oh how he wished he could have a similar bond with his own darling younger brother. How he wished he could freely joke and play with Wangji the same way the Yunmeng Shaungjie did with each other.

Perhaps….in another life they could….

"Hello Er-ge, good to see you again." 

All three of them froze, startled by the newcomer. That voice was awfully familiar and Jiang Cheng felt a surge of mixed emotions well up his chest, heart constricting painfully. He knew who that was and he felt almost smaller in comparison. 

Wei Wuxian untangled himself from being on Jiang Cheng and Jiang Cheng peeked over Lan Xichen's shoulder as the older man turned around to step forward in order to block their view and he spied the fluttering of tell-tale gold and white robes of a very high ranked member of Lanling Jin as that person entered the guest house, flanked by several dead-panned faced disciples all sporting that familar vermilion mark on their foreheads. Jiang Cheng saw the familiar dark brown ceremonial crown headgear that sat atop those long luscious brown locks that tumbled down his back, two strands framed a fair-skinned face, with the same vermillion mark painted in the middle of his forehead and that knowing smirk that irked Jiang Cheng. 

The crest of the Sparks-Amidst-Snow peony that was synonymous with the wealthiest clan in cultivation society was on display on the gold fabric of his robe proudly. Jiang Cheng groaned slightly, annoyed at the sight. He couldn't believe his luck. He really couldn't. 

It was the Chief Cultivator, Jin Gaungyao.

Lan Xichen's junior sworn brother and his brother-in-law through his sister's marriage to Jin Peacock.

Jiang Cheng sucked in a breath, viscerally hiding those pained emotions away. The mere sight or even mention of this man would send Jiang Cheng in an anxious mess.

Which he found a huge hindrance.

He did get on well with Jin Guangyao and found him a well-informed, talented individual who was incredibly well respected within society. But what made the Sect leader shiver with apprehension or made his gut coil unnervingly with twisted feelings was the way the gold robed hobbit with that pleasing smile plastered to his porcelain visage looked at Lan Xichen.

He knew what that look Jin Guangyao would give Lan Xichen meant: for he would give the esteemed and untouchable First Jade that very same expression of wanton longing and pure, innocent admiration whenever anyone wasn't paying attention to him. Jiang Cheng felt ashamed to admit this out loud but he internally admitted the truth in which Wei Wuxian had constantly preaching every other day for years:

Jiang Cheng had always loved Lan Xichen. And even if Lan Xichen didn't truly love him back, his heart would ache with that all-encompassing, all consuming weight of love for all of his lives. 

He knew he shouldn't get jealous of Jin Guangyao and Lan Xichen' relationship since it was purely platonic. But he couldn't never shake that nagging feeling that there was something more being between them, whether Lan Xichen was aware of this or not.

Absentmindedly, he heard the accompanying disciples under Jin Guangyao's lead muttering and their hushed gossip-filled whispers but he wasn't sure if that gossip was about him or Wei Wuxian who stood by, his eyes darting between the newcomer, Jiang Cheng who was desperate to stay out of sight and Lan Xichen who was still processing Jin Guangyao's sudden arrival.

He could feel Wei Wuxian's concerned glances washing over him and Wei Wuxian moved closer to place a hand on his arm, giving it a squeeze.

"Chengcheng, don't freak out. It's going to be okay." he whispered assuredly. Jiang Cheng didn't feel assured whatsoever, but he appreciated the effort his shixiong was putting in to comfort him.

He saw the way Lan Xichen' shoulders tensed and rolled slightly, also possibly in shock over the sudden arrival. 

"A-Yao? What brings you here?" Lan Xichen's voice strained. Jiang Cheng shied away, taking Wei Wuxian with him. He did not wish to be seen by that hobbit in gold.

"Wha-what are you doing?" Jiang Cheng heard his shixiong ask quietly, confusion in his voice.

"I-I'm a little intimidated by Jin Gaungyao….though it's probably more to do with his influence rather than anything else." Jiang Cheng whispered back, his shoulders visible tense, back straight and his breathing shallow. Wei Wuxian placed his hand in the middle of Jiang Cheng's back and started rubbing soft circles, soothing him. It was something their sister used to do when they were little, especially with Jiang Cheng as he had always been an anxious child. Jiang Cheng could feel his worries melt away from Wei Wuxian gentle rubbing and he began to relax.

"I'm here to see you, Er-ge. Am I not permitted to see my sworn brother? The one who has wholeheartedly stood by my side for many years?" Jin Guangyao stepped further forward, his hands clasped together. Jiang Cheng had to suppress the urge to step backwards. Lan Xichen coughed a little, feeling a little uneasy, yet expertly hid this emotion behind a facade of coolness.

"Not at all A-Yao, it's just that….you have arrived at a bad time."

Jin Guangyao displayed confusion over this. It seemed he hadn't actually noticed the Yunmeng Shaungjie and had been solely focused on Lan Xichen the whole time.

"Really? How come? What happened?" there was concern in his voice. He hoped nothing was amiss.

"Nothing has happened, do not fret. It's just that I have two esteemed guests here this week and I would like to be able to accommodate them as much as possible." Lan Xichen replied smoothly, hiding his unease even more. As much as he appreciated the effort Jin Guangyao put in whenever he visited and he adored their time together, now was not the best time.

Not only because Wei Wuxian was here, but also Jiang Wanyin was also present, standing right behind him.

Jin Guangyao had finally noticed Jiang Cheng after spotting deep blue robes and his smile faltered a little, taken aback.

"Sect Leader Jiang? What a pleasant surprise. I wasn't expecting you here." He spoke. It was clear he was hiding his discontent by being kind and Jiang Cheng practically hated it. He hated people who hide their true intentions behind a mask of falsehood and lies - it truly ground his gears. 

"Chief Cultivator, hi." He replied, gritting his teeth just so slightly. Jin Guangyao, to his credit, didn't notice and decided to take the initiative.

"I hear you have been on a long night hunt in the recent week, how did that go?" He asked.

'Of course he would know about the night hunt. The little messy bitch probably has eyes everywhere.' 

Jiang Cheng was unsure whether the Chief Cultivator was being genuine or being nosy. He couldn't tell right off the bat, but seeing that Jin Guangyao had asked him, and Lan Xichen was still present, Jiang Cheng internally groaned, swallowed his negativity harshly and proceeded to flash a smile.

He didn't see the way Lan Xichen bit his lip or hear the way he audibly yet quietly moaned under his breath.

"Yes, it went well. I am very proud of my disciples and their efforts." He crossed his arms over his chest. And he was being sincere. He was very proud of his disciples and their efforts on the night hunt and the way they all worked in tandem with each other to accomplish their objectives. He couldn't be more proud. Jin Guangyao smiled, the corners of his lips stretching upwards.

"That's good to hear. It shows you have impressive leadership skills."

Jiang Cheng was caught off guard by that but didn't show it.

"Uh….thanks." he responded, hoping he didn't sound too awkward. Jin Guangyao suddenly heard the rustle of velvet fabric and noticed subtle movement out of the corner of his eyes. Curious, he looked to his left and when he saw a familiar black-clad man standing near Jiang Cheng, his whole face lit up with joy.

"Wei-xiong!" He exclaimed and scurried over to Wei Wuxian, his long gold robes and brown locks flying behind him. Jiang Cheng gave his shixiong a silent prayer of thanks to taking Jin Guangyao's attention off of him and he exhaled, letting out all of his built up emotions in one go. He watched them converse in a casual, friendly manner and saw the way Wei Wuxian started laughing. That laugh, an infectious, joyous noise, made Jiang Cheng feel more at ease. 

Lan Xichen stepped closer and once again took Jiang Cheng's hand into his, lacing their fingers together.

"Don't worry about him Wanyin, Wei Wuxian can take care of the situation." He whispered, subtly breathing in whatever scent was lingering on Jiang Cheng.

'Gods he smells so good.' 

It was at that precise moment that Wei Wuxian and Jin Guangyao had started walking away whilst still talking as Lan Xichen was gazing adoringly at Jiang Cheng when Wei Wuxian piped up as he was about to exit the house.

"I'm going to take this one to one of the other guest houses so he can take a load off from travelling. Are you okay with that?" Wei Wuxian asked to which Lan Xichen nodded his head, looking between the two cultivators with a mild expression. He lightly squeezed Jiang Cheng's hand again to soothe him.

"Please be my guest. Hanyu is outside so he can assist if need be." 

Wei Wuxian led his friend away and the gold-robed, haughty faced disciples all bowed and turned away, closing the door as they departed for their assigned guest rooms, which left Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng finally alone as the doors closed with a soft thud.

Lan Xichen, overcome with the the enticing scent that permeated off of Jiang Cheng, turned on his heel and swept Jiang Cheng into an embrace, crashing his lips onto his beloved's with passionate hunger. Jiang Cheng let out a soft moan as they stumbled backwards onto the makeshift altar, knocking the incense burner onto its side with the sticks falling out, ash now on the table. They paid no heed to the little mess they had made and were more focused on each other, their mouths moving in tandem and Lan Xichen's free hand wandered downwards, his fingers caressing and stroking Jiang Cheng's bare chest.

"Huan…." Jiang Cheng could only moan his lover's name before he succumbed once more to the delicious ecstasy that burned in his veins. Lan Xichen stopped kissing Jiang Cheng just briefly before diving to latch his mouth onto the crook of Jiang Cheng's neck, suckling and kissing the tanned skin with reverence.

"So soft…." Lan Xichen mumbled. Jiang Cheng pushed his body upwards, pressing into Lan Xichen's, silently wanting more of his lover's searing touch.

Lan Xichen trailed his long finger down the length of Jiang Cheng's body, caressing every curve, muscle and that twin-cross jagged scar on his chest, his lips moving in sync with his fingers to kiss and suck on his beloved's body.

"You're so beautiful my love." He mumbled as he kissed around Jiang Cheng's pectorals and gave that erect little nipple a quick lick, which sent shivers down Jiang Cheng's spine.

"Huan…keep going…." he softly begged, urging the older man to continue lavishing him with his touch. He could feel the lace of his breeches being slowly untied by nimble fingers and his heartbeat quickened. He had an inkling of what Lan Xichen desired.

'Am I finally going to lose my virginity? A-Xian must have predicted this somehow. Is that why he left?'

Just as Lan Xichen was painstakingly lowering himself down Jiang Cheng's body, whilst removing his robe to get a better look at the divine sight of Sandu Shengshou, a loud, tired voice interrupted.

"Sect Leader, as much as I understand the appeal of Sect Leader Jiang, you have an unmissable appointment with your uncle and brother this afternoon so I believe it is best for you to get going."

Lan Xichen launched himself backwards, almost screeching and leaving Jiang Cheng to grumble under his breath, cursing the intruder for the interruption. 

"Hanyu….apologies….that slipped my mind. I will leave immediately to see Shufu and Wangji." He brushed himself down as he walked away, laughing awkwardly. 

Lan Hanyu, the intruder, gave his superior a stern glare and muttered something about proper behaviour around esteemed guests but before they left the guest house completely, Wei Wuxian had returned and passed through the threshold with the grin of a madman.

"Don't be so hard on Lan Xichen, Chengcheng is very enticing and sexy. He's the pride of the Jiang Clan and the most desired man in all of Yunmeng. Who wouldn't want to get a little frisky with Sandu Shengshou? To feel that spark of passion?" 

Jiang Cheng's face went bright red and even the First Jade's own face bloomed pink, with him fussily adjusting his robes and muttering under his breath. Lan Hanyu frowned.

"That may be the case, yet Zewu-Jun's heart already belongs to someone else: the Chief Cultivator." 

As soon as those words left Lan Hanyu's mouth, there was silence. A deafening silence. It was so quiet that all their heartbeats were heard, pulsating in different periods and tones. None spoke for a tense few minutes, breaths still.

Wei Wuxian suddenly and abruptly shattered that silence, and he started to wheeze with laughter, mocking such absurdity. Lan Xichen whipped his head so fast to glower menacingly at his attendant, stunned at such a revelation. Jiang Cheng felt his heart break ever so slowly, his mind darkening.

"I'm sorry….what?" Wei Wuxian wiped his eye of any tears that had formed through him laughing and he turned to glare at Lan Hanyu.

"Is that a joke?" His voice, rigid and icy. Jiang Cheng's breath hitched, holding back his utter surprise to see Wei Wuxian's chipper personality peel away to reveal something more darker.

Lan Hanyu could feel the pressure of such an intense glare fold him in half, his entire body screaming at him to leave.

Incurring the wrath of the Yiling Laozu was inherently an abysmal idea and those who invoked his righteous anger didn't usually live to tell the tale. But Wei Wuxian's protective fury was something to admire and fear all the same.

He didn't play around when it came to his family.

"Do enlighten me on this." Wei Wuxian's voice was dangerously soft, his usual silver eyes now glowing a haunted crimson and black tendrils of resentment had started to steam off his body.

Lan Xichen, fearing for his attendant's safety despite the previous comment, rushed forward to plant himself in the middle of the both of them.

"Laozu please. My attendant means no harm. What he said previously isn't true." He pleaded. He turned his head over his shoulder to speak to Lan Hanyu. 

"Don't ever joke about such things. I'm not in love with Meng Yao." He hissed. Lan Hanyu shivered and bowed apologetically.

"My deepest apologies, honoured guests. Please forgive the humble servant's words."

Wei Wuxian had calmed down and hummed as he stealthy glided over to Jiang Cheng and started to fix his appearance with gentle hands, his voice quietly hushing and soothing any fears that had surfaced. 

"It's alright…." Lan Xichen heard Wei Wuxian coo affectionately at Jiang Cheng who held a wobbly smile and was apologising for the "mess". Wei Wuxian had brushed his shidi down and smoothed his robes to make him more presentable yet the sight of that wobbly smile, the sign that Jiang Cheng was clearly hiding his emotions again, made Lan Xichen's heart lurch.

Lan Hanyu, sensing that his presence was no longer needed, walked away in a flourish and Lan Xichen stood idly by the door, watching the Yunmeng Shaungjie converse.

'I….will wait for them to finish before I ask them to join me for afternoon tea with Shufu and Wangji. I'm sure Wei Wuxian and Wangji will be able to talk and probably clear up any lingering feelings that they may still have.'

~Part 3 complete~