Lan Wangji had always disliked Jiang Wanyin. He never understood why Wei Ying would still treat that short-tempered, disrespectful person fairly well, even though Wei Ying knew that in the future, Jiang Wanyin might be the very cause of his demise.
Despite that, the suggestions that came from that son of the Jiang sect leader were quite pleasing to hear. That was the only reason he did not let Wei Ying act out in violence against his martial brother, and that would be the last time he would prevent it.
"Why are you stopping me?" Xiao Zhan grumbled. He really wanted to knock some sense into that traitorous rascal with his fiery kicks.
"We have to oversee the others too." Lan Wangji urgently turned him in the opposite direction and urged him to go forward. He cast a glance at both rigidly frozen boys while he held on tightly to the fussing Wei Ying. Both of them heaved a huge sigh of relief as the scary pair got further away from view.
Xiao Zhan attempted to wiggle out of the iron grip. He voiced his dissatisfaction. "This is unjust. You are giving unfair treatment, Second Young Master Lan. How come you are not reciting your precious rules now? Hey! Lan Zhan! Are you listening? Lan Zhan!"
"..Lan Wangji pretended not to hear those words. He did not know how to explain his embarrassing reasons for letting Jiang Wanyin go.
When they were far enough away, Xiao Zhan finally managed to free himself. He grumbled, "Fine. Ignore me. See if I will talk to you after this."
Lan Wangji had sworn to live without regret, but at the moment, he already had one regret. Perhaps it would have been better if he had just let Wei Ying do whatever he wanted earlier. He did not even care if Jiang Wanyin got roughed up or battered to the bone. He could even go back and do it if Wei Ying wanted it. He asked with an innocent face, "Should I finish him off?"
Xiao Zhan shook his head, still pouting, "No need. It's too late for that."
Unable to feel relieved yet, Lan Wangji tried changing the course of their conversation. "Do you want to eat spicy food?"
"Are you attempting to appease me with food?" Xiao Zhan gasped loudly in disbelief.
Who would have thought that this person would try to bribe his way out of the argument with such a method? Who taught him this? Ugh, that Zewu-Jun must have been teaching his naive brother nonsense.
Lan Wangji justified, "You seem to like food a lot."
"I do..." Xiao Zhan paused, feeling like he was being tricked again. "Hey, is this another trick of yours?" he said, slapping Lan Wangji's arm.
"...Trick?" Lan Wangji flinched. Although he fought with Wei Ying all the time with his sword, he never got hit like this. He had never played any tricks on Wei Ying or anyone in his lifetime. He would never. His face showed utter bewilderment.
"Oh, sorry! Did I hit too hard?" Xiao Zhan asked, patting the spot he had just smacked. "Sorry, it's an old habit. People playfully hit each other when they're close."
Lan Wangji chose not to inquire further on that matter, as he knew he probably wouldn't like the answers. "We can go for a meal after this training is over. It's my treat."
"Really? I can't wait to eat then." Xiao Zhan began to hum cheerfully at the thought of the food varieties he wanted to try in town. He recited the long list of delicacies as they walked. Just like that, Xiao Zhan had forgotten about wanting to beat the crap out of Jiang Cheng.
Food never failed. Lan Wangji engraved that fact in his heart.
*****
On the fifth day of the hellish regimen, the accumulated curses directed at 'Wei Wuxian' could fill the stairs of Koi Tower from top to bottom. Wei Wuxian was a fierce and perfectionist beast when it came to training. It was three hours on the first day, which was then followed by a long session full of harsh criticisms of their individual skills and revelations of their flaws by the tyrannical Young Master Wei. On the second day, he increased the sparring to five hours and spent the day going around each team, correcting their stances and techniques. He did not hesitate to curse at them when they couldn't do it right, and the second Young Master Lan chose to turn a deaf ear to that matter. Another hour was added for each day that passed. Since then, the arduous regimen went on for the whole eight hours with only a one-hour break in between. The training intensity only got harder and harder. At random times, they would face blitz attacks from the indiscriminately violent pair of trainers without any notice. Sometimes, they became the test subjects for Wei Wuxian's weird creations of talismans and tools. Due to those unpredictable trials and timings, some disciples ended up sleeping while hugging their swords at night, having become too hypervigilant.
Lan Xichen made a wise decision to conduct the training while his uncle was away. The Cloud Recesses had never been so hectic and noisy. Every day was filled with screams of anguish and shrieks of pain, mixed with thunderous military-like commands and scoldings that could make one's ears bleed. Even the First Jade shivered with chills down his spine when that Young Master Wei became mean and furious. He sincerely prayed that his brother would never do anything foolish and offend that person who would most likely become his brother-in-law.
The Cold Spring had never been so crowded before. Right after the painstaking hours of torment, the disciples were permitted to use it to speed up their recovery, as the next day of training required them to be in full health and strength. The domineering trainers would not tolerate any excuses of injuries since they were all capable of accelerating their body's healing with meditation in addition to the miraculous effect of the Cold Spring.
Xiao Zhan was used to these kinds of grueling drills and jam-packed schedules. Violin, idol survival shows, acting, and singing careers; all of that required persistent hard work and constant perseverance. He believed that to be the master and enhance a skill or achieve a goal, it was all down to practicing, establishing routines, and disciplines. He developed a strong mentality that once he set himself on a task, he would never stop until he completed it with perfection. On the other hand, he had once experienced military life while acting as a soldier in the war action drama 'Ace Troop'. From that, he even learned the basic army tactics from real commanding officers and combat skills from fighting instructors. Hence, he used all his knowledge to act like a merciless commander-in-chief while executing this 'seven days of hell' mission. Personally, he enjoyed this fun real-time battle simulation and game-like experience without needing to think of repercussions. "If anyone has any complaints, do not be shy and come at me. It will be just me."
That was what he chanted like a mantra whenever he saw sour faces looking at him with disdain. In the beginning, there were a few courageous ones who took up the challenge, but they ended up groaning in pain with their butts on the dirt within a few minutes. What was more humiliating was that Wei Wuxian's sword remained sheathed the entire time. He identified their weak spots at a glance, and his movements were minimal as he subdued them proficiently. He would then proceed with his condescending verdict on their offensive skills. Xiao Zhan did not hold his tongue at all.
Today, Xiao Zhan was all smiles and sunshine when he greeted the disciples. The crowd, on the other hand, sensed something suspicious and diabolical behind his suddenly cheerful face. They instinctively took a step back.
"Relax. I'm not going to bite. Instead, we're going to have a great day today!" Xiao Zhan found their faces comical and laughed. "I've got good news for you all. We'll take a break from the usual brawls."
"You're not joking, right?" Jiang Cheng was standing at the very front of the large group, sounding skeptical. He had a metallic taste in his mouth, and his body had been full of bruises and soreness for days from the atrocious program from hell. The exuberant Wei Wuxian on the opposite side somehow looked foreign to him when, in the last few days, that martial brother of his had been more terrifying than a waterborne abyss itself.
"No, I am not. Now everyone, do me a favor. Please get into the lotus position," Xiao Zhan instructed in a mirthful voice.
The crowd reluctantly complied with his instructions, and their eyes loyally shifted along with every minuscule movement that Xiao Zhan made. Lan Wangji, in his utmost decorum, set his guqin on a makeshift table in front of him, facing the field full of people. Lan Xichen was not on the sideline this time, as he stood close beside his younger brother. The disciples in training eyed the three of them warily.
"The last few days were tough, am I right? I know how much you all hate me right now. Thus, I have prepared a special short refreshment for everyone. Our Twin Jades of Lan here will help clear your minds from those unhealthy, boiling resentments you have for me. So, enjoy the treat!" Xiao Zhan stated in a cavalier manner. Handing the stage over to the First Jade, his high ponytail bounced as he moved his head along with his cheery humming.
Lan Xichen spoke without failing to smile, "Just close your eyes and focus on the music. We are going to meditate."
Since it was the gentle and kind Zewu-Jun who instructed them, they did not have any objections, and they shut their eyes once they were in position. The guqin started to ring out, followed by the vertical flute's whistles. The melody of the calming music seeped into their souls, cleansing them of negative emotions. They could feel the spiritual energy becoming clearer and flowing smoothly into their veins and arteries, healing them physically and mentally. Feeling better and calmer, the disciples were glad that Wei Wuxian had stayed true to his words. It was a peaceful and relaxing time while it lasted.
As the duet performance ended, Xiao Zhan's lips were still adorned with a wide smile. "How is everyone feeling? Good?"
Hearing his speech, the sinister feeling began to flow again in everyone's mind, and they looked at each other with extreme alertness. In the past few days, they had learned to stay vigilant and always be prepared for the unexpected. Wei Wuxian would only increase the difficulty, and they were convinced that it would be the case that day as well.
"Lan Zhan, no one answered me." Xiao Zhan coquettishly complained to the person beside him. All it took was a glare from the ice prince to get a response. If Wei Wuxian was a beast, his protector was the cavalry of death. They were a dangerous pair of doom.
"We feel great, Young Master Wei! We feel awesome!" A voice suddenly came from the crowd. Before long, more positive responses were heard. Those were just a bunch of lies.
Xiao Zhan rubbed his chin and smirked, "Alright since everyone here feels better, shall we level up?"
At that instance, the disciples shot up from their bums like springs. They quickly banded together and sorted themselves into a defensive formation, getting ready for whatever the maniac trainer or his merciless partner threw at them.
Xiao Zhan clapped his hand cheerily, approving their improvement in reaction speed. However, there was nothing that traveled faster than sound, apart from light. The very same strings that were healing the poor crowd just now played a different and dangerous tune. With a powerful strum, a blast of blue wave was sent towards the disciple and they were flung backward.
Sorry, boys. I already asked him to tone down the spiritual energy he imbued. It seems like he underestimated his own energy level. Just bear with the bruises on your buttocks for a few days.
"Damn you, you monstrous trainer!" Jiang Cheng snarled as he got up. "Are you planning to kill all of us? Is it fun to torment us?"
"I've never heard that insult before. Thanks, Young Master Jiang." Xiao Zhan snickered as he swept the dust off his shoulder. "Don't tell me you've all forgotten that Gusu Lan sect disciples primarily cultivate through music. It's only logical for them to use their weapons. Ah, the juniors from Lan. Be sure to take note of this."
A soft laughter came from Lan Xichen. "Young Master Wei is right. That was unpredictable, right? Please do not misunderstand him. Apart from strengthening your cultivation, this training was also meant to prepare everyone for unforeseen events. After all, the world is always in chaos. Furthermore, I am sure that everyone can feel the difference in their core by now, right?"
No one could deny it even if they wanted to. In fact, they did notice that significant change in their energy levels, especially during the meditation just now. The constant training pushed them to their limits each day, and they were forced to learn to efficiently use their cores and channel their energies more effectively. On that account, their cultivation levels improved to a greater extent in a very short amount of time.
Xiao Zhan unashamedly pulled a white lotus act again. "Lan Zhan, the ungrateful brats said I'm a monster."
There was no need to tell Lan Wangji twice, as he sent another wave toward the flummoxed crowd. The highlight of the day was revealed when Lan Xichen joined in the attack this time and caught the disciples off guard. That, without being said, was the most fun the Twin Jades had ever experienced in their lives. Wei Wuxian not only influenced the strict, stoic Lan Wangji, but he also managed to bring out the dark side of the smiley-faced Zewu-Jun. At the end of the day, the disciples could only flock to the cold spring while cursing at the root of all evil, Wei Wuxian, and his guardian angels. They did not spare the Jades of Lan this time.
The next day was the last training day. It began with a meditation session, aided by music like the previous day, before continuing with the finale, which was the ultimate test for the trainees. It was a straightforward trial. The Yin and Yang duo repeated the same drill as on the first day. The disciples put up a more challenging fight which lasted longer this second time around. Their moves became swifter, and their reaction time shortened.
Remarkably, Nie Huaisang used his masterminding skills for this and came up with split formations and several other well-organized plans to counter those two prodigies. He finally used his brain for good this time. Although the plans were useless against the quick-thinking combat geniuses, it was still a commendable team effort. Despite being beaten up again after fighting for almost four continuous hours, there was no word of complaint this time. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed the last mock battle and they did their very best. They sat on the ground panting for breath, covered with sweat and bruises, and without needing to be instructed, they started to meditate for healing and recovery. They were filled with satisfaction with the positive improvements resulting from the seven days of hell.
Looking at the quiet crowd, Lan Xichen spoke to Xiao Zhan. "Young Master Wei, thank you for doing this. I never thought that one could improve their cultivation with this kind of method."
"It was a pleasure, Zewu-Jun. Although I am not the only one who made the effort. You worked hard too. Lan Zhan did all the heavy-duty work too." Xiao Zhan looked at Lan Wangji beside him, his eyes gleaming with admiration. He blurted out without thinking, "Isn't he amazing?"
Lan Xichen was more than pleased with that statement. "Oh, Wangji is indeed amazing." He said, chuckling softly.
Xiao Zhan cursed in his heart at his slip of the tongue. But before he could say anything in reply, he was in for a stunning view. Lan Wangji captured his attention with a radiant, mesmerizing smile.
Ah, he is undoubtedly amazing.
Xiao Zhan felt as if time moved in slow motion, and his heart was blessed by heaven's delights. His mind began to focus on that one person and nothing else. How could he resist the surge of emotions that came with the youthful body of the destined lover of the breathtakingly handsome Lan Wangji? He couldn't help but adore him, and his heart melted. He stopped thinking rationally and cast his soul's age aside. In this world where the dead could return to life and where celestial beings and immortals existed, what was the point of counting age anyway? He smiled radiantly back at him.
Lan Xichen wished he could save the image of those beaming faces he was looking at right at that moment. He almost shed a tear of joy as this was the first time he had seen his younger brother smile so sweetly. It felt like springtime, and the flowers were blooming, coloring the gloomy world vividly. His heart was full, for his brother's happiness was also his.
"Wow," someone said. The disciples were all looking in their direction. In their view, the pair was shamelessly flaunting their affection toward each other. However, the one that blew their minds was the pretty smile on Lan Wangji's face. How could an expressionless person suddenly turn into an ethereal being just by a completely normal smile? Nie Huaisang was right. The rankings needed to be rearranged.
Xiao Zhan noticed those eyes settled on Lan Wangji's face. His hand moved faster than his thoughts, and he threw his smoke grenade talisman toward the owners of the ogling eyes. The heavy, dense haze blocked their views. Those disciples emptied the air from their lungs, yelling out, "Wei Wuxian!" followed by forceful coughs.
The overly supportive brother of Lan Wangji trembled as he attempted to stifle his laughter. He did not want to be another victim of those crafty talismans.