Xiao Zhan found a few books that piqued his interest while he was wandering around the library which belongs to the former Qishan Wen sect. They contained extended theories and methods of spatial cultivation that were lost to the world. Xiao Zhan's mind raced with the possibilities of how this cultivation might be used. The cultivation that allowed time and space manipulation- it was the basis of his transportation talisman, the Qiankun bags, and certain abilities that certain people used. However, the reality was far more complicated than this, and no one had actually fully mastered it through and through due to how complex it is.
Some people like Wen Ruohan and Wen Zhuliu had their powers based on this magic. Telekinesis and Core Melting Hand were good examples. Telekinesis deals with alteration of dimension, giving one the ability to warp space just like rubber band. The cultivator can move, manipulate or otherwise interact with matter and energy by controlling the space it is occupying. As all matter and energy exist within the three-dimensional space, they can control the movement of the target matter and energy in a telekinetic manner although the range depends on the user's cultivation base.
While Core Melting hand is a form of matter manipulation which focused on reversal of time on one's Golden Core, regressing it to the point where it never existed. In other words, melt it to nothingness. The drawback is, this is an extremely draining technique which required a great amount of spiritual energy from the user since it involved distortion of time. It requires the user to be able to withstand the strain on their core before attempting its use. And if it fails, the backlash would be disastrous and they might lose their own Golden Core in the process. So, to say that Wen Zhuliu had mastered it, means he was really powerful when he was alive. Thankfully, he was stronger.
The idea of reversing time and returning to a previous point in one's life was incredibly appealing to Xiao Zhan. He wondered what it would be like to go back and change the course of his own life, to make different decisions and see where they led him. But the more he thought about it, the more he realized the potential dangers of such a power.
Would time regression cause time paradoxes in the universes?
The thought sent shivers down his spine.
And at a larger scale, what would happen if one were to travel through time into a different universe altogether? Would that be...transmigration? Is this the reason why I ended up in this universe? Did something similar happen before? Was I transported here by accident or was it deliberate? And most importantly, was that dream about Yibo not a dream? Did I really momentarily send back to that universe?
If so, he must find out how he could prevent it from happening again. He couldn't go back. Not when he has a person he loves, who needs him in this world. This is his home now.
He continued to flip through the pages of the thick books as his eyes roamed over the contents. Some of these books were written in older text styles making it hard to decipher.
Oh, this is going to give me a headache! Maybe I should really learn the Seal Scripts first!
He continued with his study, concentrating on each chapter with utmost focus. He didn't even realized how much time had passed until he heard the familiar footsteps approach.
"Wei Ying." Lan Wangji called up softly as he approached the man's side.
Xiao Zhan glanced up and met his lover's gaze, smiling brightly. "Lan Zhan, you're back!"
Lan Wangji just returned from Gusu for his weekly meeting with his brother and it was not a surprise to him to find Xiao Zhan in the library. After all, his lover spent much of his free time here recently. The enormous archive room contained many things from past generations, but most importantly it housed all of the research done on the various sects and clans which had been founded over the years. Xiao Zhan was fascinated to learn about the techniques used by the sects and clans.
"How are things in Cloud Recesses?" Xiao Zhan asked.
"As usual." Lan Wangji answered simply. Since the end of the war, Lan Qiren was currently in seclusion by his own choice to recuperate and at the same time to mourn for his brother's passing, leaving Lan Xichen fully in charge of running the sect. Even though Lan Xichen was still young and inexperienced in many aspects, he was capable of handling most things related to the Gusu Lan Sect. Lan Wangji still helped him out however he can when he was needed.
Lan Wangji walked over to his side, "What are you reading?"
Xiao Zhan answered, showing the page he was on, "Spatial cultivation."
Lan Wangji took a glance at the book, his brow furrowed slightly at the topic, "Time manipulation? That's dangerous."
"I know." Xiao Zhan agreed, "These are just theories though."
"Are you interested in the topic?" Lan Wangji questioned, sounding a little apprehensive.
Xiao Zhan answered truthfully, "I just am curious on how I got here."
"I know you are." Lan Wangji said as he wrapped his arms around Xiao Zhan's waist and pulled him closer, nuzzling against his neck. "But don't go anywhere, okay?"
Xiao Zhan smiled, leaning his head on Lan Wangji's shoulder, "I won't."
Lan Wangji tightened his grip. "You promised me that, right?" His voice trembled slightly, his eyes filled with worry.
Xiao Zhan turned around in his partner's embrace and cupped his cheeks. He gazed deeply into those light golden eyes and replied, "Of course! You have my word."
Lan Wangji exhaled sharply. He kissed Xiao Zhan's forehead lightly and held him close. "Just stay with me. Forever." He whispered.
"And I'll do everything in my power to do that," Xiao Zhan promised.
Lan Wangji nodded, a small smile on his face. He then leaned forward and gently kissed Xiao Zhan. It was soft and sweet and tender, a kiss full of love and adoration.
When they parted, Lan Wangji pressed his forehead against Xiao Zhan's, "Come. Let's have dinner together."
Xiao Zhan nodded his assent and allowed himself to be dragged out of the library.
Since the fall of Nightless City, Qinghe Nie Sect took over the place and on Xiao Zhan's request, the Scorching Palace was left under his care. The group of Wen defectors and the remaining members of Wen Sect were relocated in the area as well, which was tightly guarded by both Nie and Jiang Sect disciples. The couple stayed in the Scorching Palace, the once-infamous stronghold now transformed into a sanctuary of hope and healing. The entire city became an oasis for the injured, refugees and victims of war. After the final battle was concluded, Wen Chao was executed for his crimes. The ones who remained loyal to Wen Ruohan's legacy and took part in the battle against them were also given death penalty. It could not be helped as they all committed horrible atrocities. There were some Wen soldiers who escaped from the city but many had captured and killed without mercy. Xiao Zhan couldn't say anything against that because that was how cultivation world works.
Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji walked hand in hand through the hallways, their footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors. As they passed each room, they could hear the whispers of conversations, the laughter of children, and the gentle hum of healing spells. The injured and traumatized were tended to with care and compassion, their wounds slowly mending under the guidance of Wen Qing and her team of healers.
"Xiumo-jun."
"Hanguang-jun."
The greetings came in from all directions from every one they passed by while they were making their way towards the dining hall.
"Oh, look. Finally joining us for dinner, aren't you, Wuxian?" Wen Qing greeted in amusement as she watched them walk in. She inclined her head politely towards Lan Wangji as the couple took their seats at the opposite.
Xiao Zhan smiled, rubbing his neck, "Sorry, Qing-jie. I got caught up in the library."
Wen Qing's brow went up slightly, "Again?"
Wen Ning came to the table, holding a tray of tea, "Do you want some tea, Wei-xiong? Hanguang-jun?" He offered.
"Yeah, thank you, Wen Ning." Xiao Zhan accepted the cup, taking a sip of the warm beverage. Lan Wangji nodded at Wen Ning, acknowledging his offer politely.
"I know you love reading but you shouldn't skip lunch," Wen Qing commented, "Even though I told you several times that you should eat on time." She frowned disapprovingly at him.
"Qing-jie, you know, you really nag a lot." Xiao Zhan teased, giving her a cheeky grin.
"It's because you don't listen to me." Wen Qing responded dryly, glaring at him. "You'll end up with stomach ulcers before long if you don't take care of yourself better."
Xiao Zhan pouted, "Fine, fine. Next time I'll make sure to eat more." He mumbled a complaint, "You are just like Da Ge."
Wen Qing rolled her eyes, "We are just worried of you." She said as she sipped the last of her own tea, leaving a trail of steam rising from the cup before setting it down beside the table. "You are so stubborn sometimes." She stated matter of factly.
Xiao Zhan just shrugged noncommittally in response, earning him a smack on the upper arm.
Lan Wangji simply shook his head as his lover bickered with Wen Qing, picking up some dishes and putting it in Xiao Zhan's bowl.
Xiao Zhan smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Lan Zhan."
"Eat first." Lan Wangji urged him.
Xiao Zhan obediently picked up his chopsticks and started eating his food while he occasionally talked to the Wen siblings. The atmosphere of their meal was relaxed and happy.
After the meal and some conversations with the others, Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji retired to their private quarter. The room was bathed in soft candlelight, the scent of sandalwood filling the air. They laid on the bed, their bodies pressed close, snuggling under the same blanket.
Xiao Zhan traced his fingers gently along the lines of Lan Wangji's face, marveling at the perfect symmetry of his features. "Lan Zhan." He whispered, grinning widely, "Do you know how handsome you are? I think I am the luckiest person in this whole wide world to have you."
Lan Wangji's eyes, always filled devotion, locked onto Xiao Zhan's, "It's my pleasure that you like what you see."
Xiao Zhan chuckled. "You know how to crack jokes now, huh?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji smiled faintly. He moved his hands from Xian Zhan's cheeks and placed them gently onto his thighs, leaning closer to him, his lips moving closer toward his beloved's.
Xiao Zhan closed his eyes and tilted his head slightly in anticipation. He felt Lan Wangji's warm breath caress his face as Lan Wangji kissed him softly. Xiao Zhan sighed happily, wrapping his arms loosely around Lan Wangji's neck, bringing him closer and deepening the kiss.
When they parted after a while, Lan Wangji looked at him fondly. "Wei Ying, I want to marry you." He stated, his tone serious.
Xiao Zhan stared at him, smiling softly, "And I would like that too, Lan Zhan."
A beautiful, radiant smile bloomed across Lan Wangji's face. His eyes crinkled in happiness. Xiao Zhan couldn't help but kiss him again. They both know that they wouldn't be able to marry each other for at least two years due to the mourning period that still imposed on Lan Wangji for his father's passing. However, they were willing to wait for a couple of years. For now, they enjoyed each other's company as long as it meant they were together.
"How about your uncle? You know he won't let you marry me." Xiao Zhan told him.
"I don't need my uncle's permission to marry." Lan Wangji countered, sounding like a petulant child.
Xiao Zhan snorted at that, laughing. "Oh, you rebellious thing. You are going to give your poor uncle high blood pressure, you know?"
Lan Wangji huffed indignantly and Xiao Zhan could only laugh harder.
"But it's fine, Lan Zhan. As long as we're together, I'm happy enough." Xiao Zhan said reassuringly after he stopped laughing.
"I'll take good care of you, Wei Ying" Lan Wangji declared earnestly.
"Well, you sure are taking good care of me." Xiao Zhan agreed with a grin, "I mean look at what you did last night!" He teased, showing off his wrists as evidence.
Lan Wangji rubbed his thumb over the slight bruising that decorated the pale skin of Xiao Zhan's wrists. "Does it hurt?"
"No. Not at all." Xiao Zhan smirked, "Though I have to say that you are absolutely enjoying having me under your mercy, huh, Er Gege?"
Lan Wangji flushed and averted his eyes, unable to deny that he had indeed been enjoying being dominant over his lover. Xiao Zhan had grown quite used to it, even enjoyed it quite a bit. A mischievous glint flashed across his bright eyes, though.
"Er Gege...do you know what I'm thinking?" Xiao Zhan whispered seductively near Lan Wangji's ear.
"What?"
Xiao Zhan gave Lan Wangji a cheeky smile, "Should I return the favor?" He purred.
Lan Wangji blinked, looking at Xiao Zhan questioningly. "What do you mean?" He asked, trying to figure out what Xiao Zhan was referring to.
Xiao Zhan took his red ribbon between his fingers and twirled it teasingly. "Do you know how it feels to be restrained?"
Lan Wangji gulped, feeling a hot rush of blood rushing into his face. "No." He managed to choke out as he swallowed hard.
Xiao Zhan laughed softly. He ran his finger down Lan Wangji's jaw line, leaving a trail of hot kisses down his neck. His breath ghosted over his collarbone and he could feel the man shuddered underneath him. Lan Wangji's body tensed when Xiao Zhan's mouth found the pulse point on his neck. "Well, you'll know what it feels like soon enough." He murmured huskily against Lan Wangji's flesh.
The night wore on slowly as Xiao Zhan spent most of it, challenging Lan Wangji's self-control to the maximum as the latter tried his best not to rip his lover's favorite ribbon to pieces. It ended as it always does: in a messy tangle of passion.
Few days later, they travelled back to Qinghe as the banquet celebrating Sect Leader's Nie's appointment as the Chief Cultivator was to take place. When the duo stepped inside, they were greeted with the sight of a large gathering already congregated at the main foyer. Sect Leader Nie and his other two sons were standing on the dais where the main celebration would be taking place.
"Didi, you're here! Welcome home!" Nie Huaisang welcomed Xiao Zhan in his typical cheerful voice, attempting to hug Xiao Zhan as usual. And for once, Xiao Zhan let him although he escaped the grasp three seconds later.
Sect Leader Nie gave the duo a warm smile. "Welcome back, Ying Er, Wangji."
They both bowed their heads respectfully to the elder. Sect Leader Nie (and Jiang Fengmian) had been addressing Lan Wangji with his last name for a while now and he didn't mind it. The familiarity seemed to relax him more than anything else did at the moment.
"It's been a while since we've seen you two." Nie Mingjue added. "Welcome home."
"I hope you got plenty of rest, Ying Er." Sect Leader Nie said.
"I did, Father." Xiao Zhan said, smiling brightly. "Qing-jie sent her regards and congratulations." He informed, handing a pouch containing medication supply the older man.
"She and the rest are doing well, then?" Sect Leader Nie asked curiously, accepting it graciously. Wen Qing's treatment has greatly improved his health since he started.
Xiao Zhan nodded solemnly. They chatted briefly, catching up with one another and after a short while, the festivities began.
In the grand banquet hall of the Impure Realm, it was filled with other esteemed cultivators, all dressed in their finest official robes and adorned with intricate jades and other accessories. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement as the world of cultivation had been in turmoil for far too long, and everyone was eager to congratulate the sect leader of Nie clan on his new position and celebrate the hope of a brighter future.
Jiang Fengmian was the first to walk over and clasp hands with Sect Leader Nie who welcomed him with a enthusiastic laugh. "Nie-xiong! Congratulations!" He said to his sworn brother. Behind him was Jiang Cheng carrying an ornated box which contained gift. "Here's a gift for you to celebrate this auspicious day." He gestured to Jiang Cheng to present the item.
Sect Leader Nie patted Jiang Fengmian by the shoulder as he received the gift with hearty response, "Thank you, Didi!"
The rest of the sect leaders made their way to commend him on his appointment and praising him on taking on such an important role while promising their support for whatever he decided to do next. A bunch of gifts were slowly stacked up along with the pleasantries exchanges.
As the ceremony continued, the atmosphere in the banquet hall grew more vibrant and animated. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, blending with the soft melodies played by the musicians in the background. The hall was adorned with exquisite decorations, with colorful lanterns hanging from the ceiling, casting a warm glow upon the guests.
Amidst the joyous ambiance, Sect Leader Jin finally made his grand entrance, striding into the banquet hall with an air of importance. His vibrant robes, embellished with intricate patterns and shimmering gold threads, caught the attention of all present. A polite smile graced his lips as he made his way towards Sect Leader Nie. "My apology, Sect Leader Nie, for being late. We encountered some unforeseen circumstances during our journey, and were forced to delay our trip." He said, putting his clasped hand in front. His eyes lingered for a split second on Xiao Zhan before turning away. Beside him was Jin Zixuan who bowed politely at them.
"I understand. Don't worry about it, Sect Leader Jin." Sect Leader Nie reassured him.
Xiao Zhan didn't miss the way the corners of Jin Guangshan's mouth turned downward ever so slightly as his words sounded strained and forced when he said, "Congratulation on your appointment, Sect Leader Nie. I think it's great that you were appointed, especially after all the efforts you put in throughout this war. Your leadership has brought us victory." He then summoned a servant over to bring a congratulatory gift for the sect leader. It was a huge crate and required four people to carry it.
Xiao Zhan's eyes widened slightly when he saw Meng Yao leading the group of servants to where Jin Guangshan was standing. The sight of Meng Yao dressed in the official Jin Clan uniform, with a vermillion spot adorning his forehead, made him frown. He could deduce that Jin Guangshan had taken Meng Yao into his lineage, a move that raised suspicion and unease within him. He never thought that it would be the case but apparently Jin Guangshan still has it in him to take any sort of advantage of others like using them for his own benefit.
Hah... Jin Guangshan surely is up to no good.
Xiao Zhan glanced at Lan Xichen who was smiling warmly at Meng Yao and the latter returned the smile with a soft one of his own.
This is not a good sign.
The servant finally reached them and presented their gift to Sect Leader Nie. The crate was opened revealing a magnificent lion shaped statue made from gold.
Sect Leader Nie hummed in appreciation, stroking the statue in admiration of its beauty, "This sculpture is truly beautiful. Thank you so much, Sect Leader Jin."
"It's nothing much, Sect Leader Nie. It should bring luck to your entire family." Jin Guangshan said with a charming smile causing Xiao Zhan to cringe internally. He was skeptical that the Sect Leader Jin was being sincere.
As much as he wanted to ponder on the sly old man's ulterior motives, he had no luxury to do so. As the banquet went on, the couple had to mingle around with everyone presents. Many important dignitaries from other sects came to express their gratitude for the duo's feat in taking down the former tyrant, praising them endlessly. Xiao Zhan felt overwhelmed with the amount of attention he got and he could tell, some were just saying those compliments out without much sincerity involved. After all, it's politic.
This is just tiring... And I am going to get a facial cramp from smiling too much. When will this be over?
"I need a fresh air." Xiao Zhan whispered to Lan Wangji after several hours, his gaze drifting towards the exit.
Lan Wangji inclined his head and led Xiao Zhan out of the great hall. The sun rays pierced through the golden colored leaves and the cold breeze swept through the courtyard as they walked outside.
"I hate politics." Xiao Zhan stated as he breathed in the crisp autumnal air, feeling a lot better now that they're somewhere desolated. Lan Wangji hummed in agreement; his gaze fixed upon his lover's features.
For a while, they stood there in comfortable silence until they heard voices coming from the garden in the rear of the building.
He recognized one of them immediately, Jiang Yanli.
"A-li, you've been engaged to Zixuan for a few years now." Madam Jin 's voice echoed through the empty garden, interrupting the calmness that surrounded them. "It's the perfect time for marriage, don't you think?" She asked, sounding very much curious about the answer.
In response, Jiang Yanli gave her an awkward smile, clearly uncomfortable in her current situation and reluctant to answer the question at hand. "...I haven't thought about that yet, Madam Jin." She admitted hesitantly.
"Well, my dear, why don't we set a date soon?" Madam Jin suggested enthusiastically.