The sun had fallen behind the mountains, the day's shadows long and dark when they reached their destination. Xiao Zhan halted and took a deep breath. The cold wind came down from the mountains, rolling like a tide. The branches groaned and the forest moaned with the whirling breezes that rustled through their hair as they stood right before the steps that led to the residence of the Gusu Lan Sect.
"How much longer are you two planning to stand here?" Jiang Cheng said. 'Like a couple of idiots.' He finished it in his heart.
Xiao Zhan rolled his eyes and gestured toward the staircase. "You can go in first. No one's stopping you."
"Fine." Jiang Cheng clicked his tongue and started walking, huffing and puffing. He then swiftly disappeared from sight into the dimly lit path.
"Tsk tsk." Xiao Zhan shook his head. "What an impatient fellow." He remarked. He then took a leisurely stroll with Lan Wangji, ascending those small steps one at a time. "We just return but I already miss our food trip." He sighed.
"What is it this time?" Lan Wangji responded coolly.
"Something I could never get in this world. Potato chips." Xiao Zhan spoke in English for the last two words.
Lan Wangji looked at him strangely when he heard the foreign language again, but he didn't have to ask, as Xiao Zhan began explaining and then listing down more snacks that he was craving along the way. As usual, he just listened to his chatter. In fact, he liked it because Xiao Zhan's voice was his favorite thing to hear now.
As they neared the main hall, Nie Huaisang's voice pierced through the atmosphere like an arrow. "Wei-xiong! You're finally back!"
Lan Wangji sighed. The interrupting voice was like a jagged knife in his ears. He couldn't help but feel the urge to use his Silence Spell on the person. He closed his eyes for a few seconds to strengthen his self-control, breathing deeply.
Xiao Zhan flinched and looked in the direction of the caller. He squinted at the figure who was bolting toward him with his arms wide open. Before he could step aside and evade the unwanted bear hug, Lan Wangji had already made his move.
Lan Wangji kept his palm facing forward like a stop sign, effectively blocking Nie Huaisang. He didn't like anyone touching his person frivolously and he wouldn't allow it. His glare was so hard, as if there were ice forming in the air. Almost growling, his voice was as sharp as a blade, "Back off." He warned.
The Young Master Nie screeched to an abrupt halt and saw the man standing protectively in front of Xiao Zhan. He stuttered, "Se-Second Young Master Lan, you're back too."
Xiao Zhan was glad that Nie Huaisang took the hint and stopped running like a madman. Even before coming into this world, he had already grasped that Lan Wangji was a bit possessive. He kind of liked it; he felt secure with his protection (not that he needed any). But sometimes, the man's level of jealousy could be over-the-top.
Xiao Zhan could see genuine fear in the poor boy's eyes as Lan Wangji kept glaring at him. He then placed his hand onto Lan Wangji's wrist and gradually lowered the strong-looking hand. He never released it, though; the connected hands were hidden under Lan Wangji's drape of wide sleeves as they stood side by side. "Lan Zhan, it's just a greeting," he coaxed softly before giving an apologetic smile to Nie Huaisang. "Nie-xiong, it's good to see you so energetic." He said.
Jiang Cheng, who was following behind Nie Huaisang, watched the entire debacle and stepped forward to drag the latter backward to ensure his friend's safety. "Are you courting death?" Jiang Cheng snapped at the wide-eyed teen.
Nie Huaisang blinked at both of them and flicked his fan open in front of his face, trying to hide his grin. He was truly blessed with the gift of gab as he ran his mouth, "Ah, I see! The two of youâ"
"Keep it down!" Xiao Zhan instantly shushed him with a death glare on his face. He did not want too many people to know of their relationship for now. It would only make things complicated for both of them.
"Sorry sorry." Nie Huaisang said albeit his face did not have any trace of remorse.
"Wei Ying." Lan Wangji ignored the other two entirely. He half-heartedly put out his words, "I'll make the report first."
Xiao Zhan smiled softly and let his hand go, "Mm. Go."
Lan Wangji shot a cold glance towards Nie Huaisang direction which made the shorter one cowered behind Jiang Cheng. Xiao Zhan reassured again, "Go, Lan Zhan."
Lan Wangji gave a tiny smile exclusively at his soulmate, "I will see you tomorrow morning."
"Mn." Xiao Zhan hummed. Their eyes stayed on each other for a while longer before Lan Wangji finally took his heavy steps towards the hall.
Once Lan Wangji was far enough from sight, Jiang Cheng grunted, "Ugh, you to really make me want to burn my own eyes."
"Should I help you with that?" Xiao Zhan raised a brow.
"Fuck you." Jiang Cheng said, scowling.
"No thanks." Xiao Zhan retorted.
"Ugh!" Jiang Cheng threw his hands up in the air in frustration.
"Wei-xiong, is that why you no longer want to borrow my books of art?" Nie Huaisang grinned widely. "I can lend you one that suit your taste."
This perverted teenager!
Xiao Zhan let out an exasperated sigh as he started walking to the direction of his room with the two trailed behind him like lost puppies.
Nie Huaisang continued to badger him in a sing song tune, "Wei-xiong, do you know that everyone really missed you?"
Xiao Zhan stopped dead in his track. Confused, he turned his head to face Nie Huaisang and raised his brow, "Everyone?"
Nie Huaisang chirped, "Yes! All in the class couldn't wait for you to be back!"
Xiao Zhan still didn't get what he was saying at all. He continued walking as he spoke, "Huh? Why?"
Nie Huaisang fanned himself as he complained, "You know, Wei-Xiong, the Old Man Lan's classes were getting really boring! We rather hear you yell and push us around. At least your training was fun."
"Oh really?" Xiao Zhan was amused with his claims and turned to look at Jiang Cheng, smirking, "Did you miss me too, Jiang Cheng?"
Jiang Cheng answered with more eye rolls. "Don't be ridiculous! Why would I miss your savagery?"
Xiao Zhan pushed the door to his room open with a wide grin on his face, he announced, "Expect a level up version of it then."
That made both boys gulped down their saliva like they were swallowing a shard of glass. But that did not stop them from following him into his room, sneaking inside uninvited.
Xiao Zhan stared blankly at the two who made their way in like a bullet train and took their seats at the table without his permission. He set down his sword on his bed and sat crossed legged with his arms folded. "Why are you two following in?"
"Oh come on, Wei-xiong, it's been quite a while since we see and talk to each other." Nie Huaisang whined dramatically.
"Okay. Talk." Xiao Zhan uttered expressionlessly.
"Wow, you really sounded like Lan Wangji now. I can't differentiate between the two of you anymore." Jiang Cheng sneered.
"Wei-xiong, are we no longer friends? Huh? How can you be so cruel?" Nie Huaisang acted like a pitiful child. He continued his dramatic soap opera, "Is this love? If it is, I don't want to fall in love. It's too scary."
"And nauseating." Jiang Cheng added. The two erupted in a loud cackling noise.
Xiao Zhan sighed heavily. He was already tired with this conversation. He pinched the bridge of the nose, "...anything else?"
"I wanted to ask this since that day. What the hell are you wearing?" Jiang Cheng asked as soon as he stopped laughing. He pointed to his getup, motioning from head to toe.
Xiao Zhan responded without much desire to actually answer, "I believed it is called clothes."
"Haha. Very funny." Jiang Cheng huffed. "Seriously, what is up with that color? Why are you not wearing our clan's uniform?"
"Shijie told me that I am handsome in black color clothing." Xiao Zhan stated matter-of-factly.
Annoyed, Jiang Cheng clenched his jaws and snarled, "Wei Wuxian! Can you just answer the damned question?"
Xiao Zhan lifted his shoulder in a half shrug, "Why are you so eager to know? There's no specific reason. I just like these colors."
"Black does suit you, Wei-Xiong. The design is very cool." Nie Huaisang put out his two thumbs.
Jiang Zheng grumbled, "Cool my ass."
"There's no rule saying that I can't wear other clothes besides the uniform in our clan. I got bored of purple, so I get new ones made according to my preference." Xiao Zhan threw a brief glance at his martial brother, and suggested, "I can get you one in the shade you like, if you want."
Jiang Cheng waved his hand dismissively, "No, thanks. I am proud with our clan's attire."
"Suit yourself." Xiao Zhan muttered.
Nie Huaisang propped his elbow on the table and gestured, "Did you get a different flute to match with your outfit too, Wei-Xiong?"
Xiao Zhan was surprised at his keen eyes, a befitting characteristic of a scheming mastermind. He smirked, "Nothing slipped your observation, huh?"
"Like you, I appreciate arts and trends too. That flute looked exquisite! I won't miss it even if I want to." Nie Huaisang smiled smugly.
Xiao Zhan shifted his attention to the ghost flute and took it out from his waistband. He didn't bother to tell him that it was the same one. The only difference was the color that had transformed into coal black in the burial mount incident. He began to twirl Chenqing in his hand, feeling the weight of it and felt like something still missing.
Nie Huaisang's head circled along with the movement as if he was trying to study the mechanism in it. "Wei-Xiong, please teach me this one. This seems fun."
Xiao Zhan showed him how he did it several time without budging from his seat. Nie Huaisang observed intently from the table and was noisy through the short lesson with his 'oh's and 'ah's. Jiang Cheng commented with his eyes fixated on the fast-spinning action that had yet to stop. "It seems that your lists of talents are getting longer. Jie couldn't stop gushing about your musical abilities.
"You can learn them too. There's a will, there's a way. You know?" Xiao Zhan replied nonchalantly.
"Most people don't have your big brain or time to learn all those stuffs. You are just not normal." Jiang Cheng sneered.
Xiao Zhan could hear the hint of inferiority complex in his note. Keeping Chen Qing back to his side to Nie Huaisang's disappointment, he paused and spoke earnestly with serious expression, "Jiang Cheng, let me give you my honest opinion. Not just as your older martial brother but as a person. You need to stop comparing yourself to everyone, especially me. Everyone is different and has their own sets of strengths and weaknesses. Some people are good at one thing and bad with the others. It's just human nature."
Jiang Cheng scoffed, "Hah! Says the one at the top spot and with multi talents."
"Why are you living this life like it is a competition? If life is indeed a competition, then I will gladly withdraw myself from it. I am neither your competitor nor your rival. It's not what I am aiming to live for."
Jiang Cheng lowered his head, "That's easy for you to say since you are better than me in so many things."
Xiao Zhan replied, "Look here, you too are better than me in some areas."
Jiang Cheng lifted his brow high, "Such as?"
"You are a natural born leader, and you will be a good one in future. You can handle politics and those complicated formalities, I can't. You can handle that kind of dutiful responsibilities, I can't. I don't have any interest in it, and I am way too reckless and impulsive to be one."
Jiang Cheng cocked his head to the side, "Go on?"
"You just want to hear me continue to compliment you, didn't you?" Xiao Zhan smirked before adding, "You are rich and loaded. Your hair always on point even the wind could not move it, and your eye rolls are cute."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes at his addition. "What a load of bull."
Nie Huaisang almost suffocated from the tensed atmosphere since just now. Trying to ease up the tension, he put up his hand in the air and interjected gleefully, "Me, me. What about me?"
Xiao Zhan stood up and put his hands around both of the boys' shoulders, forcing them to raise from the stools. Slowly walking with them, he gave his opinion while ushering them to the door, "Nie-xiong, you are smart and really good at planning. I give you that. I am curious to see what kind of ideas you would come up with in future."
Nie Huaisang smiled coyly at his praises, "Wei-xiong, you're flattering me."
"Now, gentlemen. I need to my beauty sleep. So, kindly get out of my room." Xiao Zhan said while shoving the two out from his room, effectively kicking them out before they could protest. It had been a long and exhausting day. Looking forward to resting his tired body, he didn't waste any more time and took a refreshing shower before jumping inside the cozy and warm blanket. He was totally knocked out the moment he landed his head on the pillow.
********
The following day, he woke up at the crack of the dawn, feeling refreshed after sleeping like a log for eight full hours. The air in Cloud Recesses was cool and crisp, a welcome difference from the oppressive heat at Yunmeng. It was like having free air conditioning and each breath he took felt like inhaling high quality oxygen infused with slight menthol. His lungs were expanding to its full capacity. It was a perfect weather to go for a morning walk.
Out in the back hill, it was much colder than he expected, and he couldn't see much of anything as it was too foggy. Thankfully he knew the paths like the back of his hand since he spent so much time sparring with Lan Wangji in that woods so he could find his way easily.
The resounding sound of the rapids accompanied him as he sat on a flat top boulder beside the big fountain with his flute rested under his lower lips. The water molecules were clinging together in a huge drop of fluid curtain and cascading from a laminar to a chaotic turbulent end. While the base of the falls contained vociferous and harsh rapids, the water petered out into a calm sphere of motionlessness. It was amazing how a thundering water could be so violent yet calming at once. The rhythmic surges and the harmonic meanders in between were like nature's lullaby. It blended in seamlessly with the clear bright timbre of the musical instrument, creating a distinctive warmth symphony. The sounds of birds chirping complete the solemn atmosphere and amplified the visceral effect of the melodious duet between a man and the ecosphere. Xiao Zhan sank deeper into the moment and his brain started to decrypt the meaning behind the lyrics of the song he was playing.
-------------
The sound of the flute is heard, alone in feelings of sorrow and melancholy
The nights in the Cloud Recessesâ areâ long
Right and wrong, are all of the past
Now thatâ I am awake, how can I pretend it was all a dream?
In the red dust, the good and evil done, how does one remember?
Blood is warm but the blade is cold
The mountains are far, and the waters are deep
The qin sounds once again
Confessions unfulfilled, like the quiet silver grass reflecting the frosty moon
Brew a cup of life and death's joy and grief, to honor a young man
The bright moon is still the same, so there is no need for sadness
Why not soar high and free as a bird with the winds and waves?
And sing this one song together to the world
Travelling down thousands of rivers, crossing thousands of mountains
Countless people passed by on my journey
Once together, now it's all in the past
Now that I am awake, let's pretend it was all a dream
Brew a cup of life and death's joy and grief, to honor a young man
The bright moon is still the same, so there is no need for sadness
Why not soar high and free as a bird with the winds and waves?
And sing this one song together to the world
-------------
"Wei Ying."
That voice always managed to bring him back to reality and he could only admit, he definitely had himself set in an abyss deep of trouble. A crazy in love kind of problem that he didn't mind being drowned in. He smiled brightly as he muttered to himself, "Exactly, the bright moon is still the same, so there is no need for sadness. Why not soar high and free as a bird with the winds and waves and sing this one song together to the world?"
"Lan Zhan, how did you find me?" Xiao Zhan asked as Lan Wangji finally stood beside where he was sitting. Lan Wangji motioned his eyes to the bamboo instrument in his hand. Xiao Zhan grinned, "Ah, of course. It was loud, huh?"
Lan Wangji formed a smile, "The song led me to you."
Those soft lips that was curving up made Xiao Zhan feel as if the whole world is falling apart around him. Lan Wangji looked so pristine that his heart would dissolve into a puddle if he were to look at him for too long. Xiao Zhan placed his hand on where his heart was supposed to be but now it was replaced with an orchestra playing a concerto. His eyes were so warm and inviting, full of devotion that only Lan Wangji could have. It was an endless stream of love and adoration that only one person could ever receive. It was like the stars themselves have decided to take notice of their beloved partner. And, in turn they had decided to share their light with Lan Wangji. A star shines brighter than the others because it has been lit by the love of the most beautiful being in the entire universe. He blurted, "And me, to you."
Lan Wangji smiled again but this time it seemed brighter, and it felt like something inside Xiao Zhan stirred. His hands twitched slightly, itching to touch the man who loved him unconditionally.
"Pull me up?" Xiao Zhan requested, tilting his head to the side.
Without another word, Lan Wangji complied and held out his hands for him. Xiao Zhan grabbed them right away and let out soft giggle as Lan Wangji pulled him up into his arms. The body contact sent shivers down his spine, sending goose bumps up and down his arms, the way his gaze could make him feel like he was looking through his soul. It was like every feeling was amplified as much as possible, to euphoria to pure love.
"You're shivering." Lan Wangji noted in his deep voice as he tugged him closer until they were wrapped in each other, making sure their body heat was connected. He nuzzled the top of Xiao Zhan's head with his arms circled around Xiao Zhan's waist and held tightly.
The temperature around the waterfall was indeed pretty chilly. Xiao Zhan watched his breath cloud in the frigid air and his outer robe was slightly dampened from the moisture that was heavy in the air. The stark contrast with the warm body that was hugging him had caused him to shiver a little. He closed his eyes and felt a soft kiss on top of his head. He couldn't help but chuckled quietly. He murmured as he snugged in even more. "You're so warm."
Lan Wangji's body stiffened as the hot breath against his neck was tickling him. He lifted Xiao Zhan's chin up and his gazed trailed his face. The man looked so beautiful as the softest hint of sunlight that was peeking through the mist, casted a glow across his features. He moved forward slowly and pressed his lips onto Xiao Zhan's smooth forehead. A kiss that was tender and sweet at the same time.
Xiao Zhan let out a content sigh. His other half was holding him like no other person in the world held him and it felt nice. In this moment, all he wanted was for his hands to be on him, never leaving him alone. He probably would give anything to have a life with him. No matter what other people said about being too young, they were both adults by definition of this world and they were matured enough that they knew to take things slow. A faint smile made its way back across his lips. He whispered, "Lan Er Gege, you are such a romantic."
"Is it a bad thing?" Lan Wangji pulled back, searching for the answer in his facial expression.
"No. Not at all. I like it." Xiao Zhan smiled reassuringly as he shook his head. Their faces were just inches apart, he could see the stars in each individual fleck of gold in the pair of eyes that was staring down at him and everything else faded away in the background. He couldn't help wanting to close their gap once again and leaned forward to connect their lips together. It was slow and delicate at first, almost teasingly, but then Lan Wangji responded by deepening the kiss. Soon they were moving in sync with each other. When they finally broke for air, Xiao Zhan felt lightheaded. He rested his forehead against the broad shoulder, relishing in the closeness. They stay like that for a while longer, basking in the warmth radiating from the other.
Lan Wangji gently stroked his hair and whispered, "Wei Ying, we have to go."
Xiao Zhan looked up through his eyelashes and answered in languid whisper, "Where to?"
"Brother wants me to bring you along for breakfast." Lan Wangji replied, brushing his finger against Xiao Zhan's cheek.
"I'll go if they serve potato chips." Xiao Zhan sighed dreamily as he rested against Lan Wangji's shoulder once more.
Lan Wangji broke into a smile again and placed a gentle kiss on his forehead, "I guess my brother has to wait forever."
Xiao Zhan laughed at his words. "I am kidding. Give me just one more minute."
The pair reluctantly pulled away from their embrace after exactly sixty seconds and made their way out from the magnificent landscape that witnessed their young love.
--------
In the private section of the Cloud Recesses dining hall, three of the prestigious cultivators sat together. Lan Xichen moved his eyes back and forth from looking at his brother and the Young Master Wei. There was something different with these two, but he could not seem to point his finger on what it was. Maybe it was the way spoke sweetly to each other or the way their shoulders almost touched as they took their seats after giving their greetings. Both of them looked a little more radiant than the last time he saw them, and both faces almost glowing vibrantly, almost flushed in reddish complexion even. Especially his brother who had his eyes almost glued onto the one in black colored robe. His eyes finally stopped at the dark intricate ensembles. The color contrasted well with Xiao Zhan's skin and brought out the mysterious silvery eyes. Even though there was an innocence present on his face, his attire made the young man look more refined and sophisticated.
The staring was so obvious, Xiao Zhan quickly jumped in to break the awkward atmosphere and started their talk politely, "Zewu-Jun, it has been a while."
"Young Master Wei, it is. Good to see you again." Lan Xichen shifted his eyes to meet the young man. His voice was gentle as always, "You look different."
Xiao Zhan smiled, "That was my full intention when I change my style."
Lan Xichen's soft laugh emerged. This Young Master Wei never failed to amuse him with his clever answers. "I supposed that must be true. It suits you very well."
Xiao Zhan's tone turned playful, "You should see your brother in black. It was a sight that I would like to paint and hung the art onto the wall."
Lan Wangji sighed, "..."
Lan Xichen raised his brows at his brother. He knew very well about his younger sibling's preference for white and never once in his life that he saw his brother in a dark shade outfit. He asked curiously, "Wangji wore black? It was a shame that I missed such rare occasion then."
Lan Wangji turned to glare at the older one, "Brother, let's stick to our purpose of this meeting."
"Right, let us continue then." Lan Xichen shook his head at his brother adorable reaction. He then spoke a little more seriously this time, "To be honest, I am surprised with the numbers of ghosts and demonic beasts that you both exterminated. It seemed that two of you really went whenever there were chaos along the path, and some were not even requested."
"Zewu-Jun, evil creatures always have a taste of blood, and they would take a person's life without hesitation if given the chance." Xiao Zhan justified. "Thus, we decided to clean up areas that we came across from their active threats and at least, people could live with less fear."
"I admired your noble ideology, Young Master Wei, and I am impressed with what you two had managed to accomplish in just few weeks. The amount itself was quite a feat, it probably took months or even longer to get that figure for most cultivators."
"We only did what we could as cultivators. I am not sure if we deserved that praise, Zewu-jun." Xiao Zhan responded unpretentiously. He added, "It is only noble deed if we don't get gain anything from it. In all honesty, it was more to our benefits, Zewu-Jun, we acquired plenty of experiences and improve our skills in this hunt. Plus, we gathered new knowledge and information as well. It's pretty much a win-win situation."
"That seems like you, Young Master Wei. As efficient as always. Regardless, I am sure you two deserved the credits," Lan Xichen stated in response and smiled with his whole face, "I can't help to notice that Wangji's cultivation level was even higher now. Can I assume that yours improved as well?"
"Of course, since it was the entire purpose of our mission." Xiao Zhan said confidently before taking a sip of the hot tea in front of him.
Lan Wangji expressed his opinion without missing the beat, "Wei Ying's level is much higher than me now, Brother."
Xiao Zhan's face grew red as he almost spluttered the tea at the honorable Zewu-Jun's robe. His elbow instinctively nudged the second Jade for his rainbow talk would only go on if he let him. He huffed, "Lan Zhan, don't exaggerate."
Lan Wangji managed a deadpan face and stated, "Wei Ying, I do not know how to exaggerate."
Xiao Zhan attested, "We drew a tie in our last spar, if you still remember."
"That was purely swordsmanship." Lan Wangji reasoned, "I would have lost if you did not forgo your talismans and your other skills."
Xiao Zhan couldn't refute his logic and became conscious of the fact that he did not utilize his 'other' skills during that last session. It was true and it made sense if he thought about it more. Both of them just stared at each other until Lan Xichen cleared his throat, "Can I check then?"
"Brother, you can't touch Wei Ying." Lan Wangji glowered. It was one thing to have his brother to lay his hands on his soulmate, although it was not even intimate kind of touch. He disliked the idea very much. On the other hand, he was also worried if his brother could detect the presence of wickedly powerful energies in his body. Xiao Zhan might had concealed his dark cultivation and kept it hidden from outpouring, but his Brother prowess and innate abilities were not to be underestimated. After all, his Brother was more knowledgeable, and had more experienced in assessing one's physical and spiritual condition and in energy flow than he did. If his brother focused hard enough, he could tell the nature of energy flowing through someone.
"Wangji, how can I measure Young Master Wei's level without touching him?" Lan Xichen was taken aback with his brother's reaction and that made him even more curious about the head disciple of Jiang's level. But then he remembered that he saw this same display of possessiveness during the incident of Waterborne Abyss. He couldn't help but wondered if his younger brother was currently displaying jealousy.
Having the same thought with Lan Wangji, Xiao Zhan clenched on Suibian that was in his right hand tightly to ease his edginess and he got an idea to diffuse the uneasy atmosphere. He held up his sword, "Zewu-Jun, let's test the level with this."
Lan Xichen furrowed his brows, shocked with his request, "What do you mean, Young Master Wei? Are you challenging me to a duel?"
"Not a duel, Zewu-Jun." Although he would love to duel with the first Jade of Lan one of these days, it was not the right time to do so. Xiao Zhan flashed a lackluster smile and urged Lan Xichen to take over the sword, "Please draw my sword."
Lan Xichen asked warily, "Is it okay to touch your weapon, Young Master Wei?"
Xiao Zhan nodded earnestly, "Yes, please go ahead, Zewu-Jun."
"Well then, if it does not bother you," Lan Xichen sighed lightly before he accepted Suibian from Xiao Zhan's hand. He carefully handled the long spiritual tool and placed his hand onto the smooth and polished hilt. He could feel the enormous spiritual power surging and going rampant from the shelled blade. The ego of the sword usually matched with the owner's core. Lan Xichen's expression turned a little strange when he realized that he was unable to wield it. He stared directly at Xiao Zhan, "Young Master Wei, is the sword alright?"
"My sword is fine, Zewu-Jun." Xiao Zhan replied. "I can show you."
Lan Xichen passed the deadly weapon back to its owner and his eyes went rounder when Xiao Zhan drew his sword without a problem. The shiny silver blade made a sharp hiss as it was taken out of its home. Xiao Zhan put the sword back into his rightful scabbard with a click and handed it to Lan Wangji. As expected, the blade remained firm in its position and did not budge.
Lan Wangji revealed, "The sword sealed itself, Brother. No one other than Wei Ying can wield it."
Lan Xichen gasped; this could only mean that the teen had reached the level of peak spiritual power. "Young Master Wei, sword-sealing is something that only happens when a person's cultivation level is exceptionally high. Are you aware how rare is this occurrence?"
Xiao Zhan looked down at Suibian which emit a comforting vibration in his hand and his fingertips traced the traditional Chinese character that spelled, 'Whatever' over and over again. He muttered, "In a way."
Lan Xichen's mind was racing to make some sense into this scenario. Even if one cultivated for eighty years, there was no guarantee that their sword would do this, and he only knew several supreme grandmasters in history book with sealed swords. He narrowed his brown eyes, "Please remind me how old are you again, Young Master Wei?"
"Fifteen." Xiao Zhan uttered in a hushed voice. He then added the months just for good measure, "And a half."
Lan Xichen drew another sharp inhale. The teen was younger than him by a little more than three years and he was already an accomplished cultivator. He blinked slowly, trying to digest the shocking fact, "You have surpassed even me."
"I don't think I have surpassed you, Zewu-Jun." Xiao Zhan stated humbly.
"No, I think you have, Young Master Wei. You might even surpass our uncle too." Lan Xichen claimed.
Xiao Zhan quickly dismissed the idea, "How can I surpass an Elder at my age, Zewu-Jun?"
Lan Wangji disproved, "Wei Ying, you overpowered an Elder with only defensive stances."
Xiao Zhan body became rigid at the second Young Master Lan's untimely uprightness. For a moment, the silence that came after the comment was so intense; one could hear a pin drop from a distance. Xiao Zhan laughed to lighten up the mood and lightly slapped his partner's thigh under the table as a cautionary measure. He glared at him and gritted his words through his teeth, "I didn't overpower anyone. There was no need for offense in that case."
Lan Wangji paid no heed to his warning and looked at him unblinkingly. He disagreed, "Even so, you defeated an Elder without using any offensive moves."
Xiao Zhan attempted to offset his argument, "Because she is an Elder. It would be rude for me to attack her."
The crease between Lan Xichen's brows deepened. He was utterly confused about this exchange between the two. "Who exactly are you two talking about? "
Lan Wangji said while steadily holding his gaze onto Xiao Zhan's, "The Violet Spider."
Lan Xichen almost got a cardiac arrest at the mentioned name. His pitch went an octave higher when he exclaimed, "I am not going to ask why but how? She is definitely a strong opponent. I have seen her before."
He then realized how out of composure his reaction was and he coughed uncomfortably before continuing, "Anyway, Young Master Wei, please elaborate further. "
Xiao Zhan gave up on his staring contest with Lan Wangji and answered, "It was nothing particularly special. Her emotions clouded her judgements, so it was easy to dodge her attacks. That's it."
Lan Wangji, "Still you disarmed her with your bare hand."
Xiao Zhan shrugged, "She was caught off guard. It was not a big deal."
Lan Xichen looked incredulously at Xiao Zhan, "But it is, Young Master Wei!"
Xiao Zhan sighed, "It wasn't all that difficult and impressive, Zewu-Jun. Anyone could do it. It's just a matter of reading the situation while keeping a small distance. Just a strategical analysis."
Lan Xichen shook his head, trying to keep himself from feeling overwhelmed as his heart continued to beat faster. It was impossible! This boy was truly unbelievable. Not only did he have great spiritual power but incredible skill and quick-witted. How did a child manage to cultivate his spiritual power this quickly? He had seen many disciples that used different methods of training, but none had such remarkable results. This young man was an anomaly and Lan Xichen could not help but wanted to learn more about this new phenomenon.
Before he could continue questioning, Xiao Zhan hurriedly interrupted, "Zewu-Jun, can we discuss about this some other time? Surely, we have some other topic awaiting."
Lan Xichen gave a hesitant smile, "My apology, Young Master Wei. It just took me off guard a bit."
He glanced at Lan Wangji, who was already glaring daggers at him. "Alright. Let's move on. About Yueyang Chang Clan Leader, Wangji had informed me of his crimes."
Xue Yang's smiling face entered his mind, and he could feel his anger rising when he thought about the traumatizing incident that the poor boy had suffered. Xiao Zhan's face changed to a grim expression, and he tightened his grip on his sword handle.
Lan Xichen smiled lightly, "Don't worry, Young Master Wei. He will be prosecuted since his heinous crimes were intentional."
Xiao Zhan was a little doubtful, "Who will prosecute him? Will the elders take care of this?"
Lan Wangji answered in a flat tone, "he will be called up for trial before the sect elders conference in a month."
"I hope he will pay for what he has done to Xue Yang," Xiao Zhan whispered quietly. His voice sounded hollow and cold to Lan Wangji's ears.
Lan Wangji promised softly. "Wei Ying, I will make sure of it."
A faint smile touched Xiao Zhan's face, "I know you will."
Lan Xichen cleared his throat softly as he tried to hide his amusement, breaking them both out of their affectionate gazes. "Now, should we have our breakfast?"
"Whoever it is in the kitchen, need to be taught a lesson in cooking." Xiao Zhan grumbled under his breath. After a month of having only good food, he could not tolerate the bland dishes.
Lan Xichen heard his discontentment and chuckled, "Young Master Wei, the chef was picked for his talents in making healthy food."
Xiao Zhan looked slightly annoyed while moving his spoon aimlessly in the bowl, studying the ingredients that was put in it, "If being thrifty on using salt is a talent, then he is indeed talented. There are so many ways to cook healthy dishes apart from throwing them all on one pot to make this stew or soup. Whatever this is called."
Lan Xichen lifted his eyebrows at the younger man's boldness while Lan Wangji merely ignored the remark. He had to keep himself from laughing at this point, "Young Master Wei, being a cook is not easy."
Xiao Zhan raised his head and his eyes narrowed at Lan Xichen. A glint flashed in his eyes, and he said calmly, "Zewu Jun, it is easy. You just need recipe and make a dish. An edible one."
"How can you be so sure, Young Master Wei?" Lan Xichen said with a teasing smile.
Xiao Zhan stared at him for a few second before speaking. He spoke very slowly and deliberately, "Because I like cooking."
He took a deep breath and raised from his seat, taking the bowls on the tables into his hand. He then announced, "I will teach someone how to cook."
Lan Xichen tried to stop him, "Young Master Weiâ"
Lan Wangji just watched his partner took his confident steps fondly and spoke, "You can't stop him, Brother. He is passionate about food."
Xiao Zhan made a sudden turn around and questioned them. "Have anyone had potato pancake before?"
Both of the men gawked at him blankly, completely unable to imagine a situation where someone would ask them about potato. It sounded foreign to the both of them.
"No one? Okay then." Xiao Zhan pivoted back and headed towards the kitchen.
Not long after, he came back with a tray with few plates of steaming hot shredded potato pancake with some mixing of green vegetables in it and some small bowl of dipping sauce mainly made of rice vinegar mixed with soy sauce.
"Eat well, Young Masters." Xiao Zhan bowed.
Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji each picked up a bite size of the potato cake, dipped it in the sauce and almost choked at the taste. It was unlike anything they had ever tasted before. After some time, both men finished their food but still unable to comprehend how such a thing was possible. The simplest food had become extraordinary.
"What do you think of it?" Xiao Zhan asked them curiously.
Lan Wangji responded innocently, "This is potato?"
Xiao Zhan grinned, "Yes. It is."
"Why is it that I've never seen or even tasted a dish like this before?" Lan Xichen inquired.
The grin on Xiao Zhan's lips broadened. "Zewu Jun, it's only a change of method of cooking. I pretty much used the same of ingredients in the tasteless soup."
Lan Xichen bobbed his head up and down, "Ah, yes. I see that now. I am afraid that I won't be able to drink the soup without thinking about your cooking in future, Young Master Wei."
"Well, I'm glad that you approved my dish, Zewu-Jun." Xiao Zhan cheerfully said. "And how about you, Lan Zhan?"
"Delicious as always." Lan Wangji smiled softly at Xiao Zhan. It warmed his heart to see his gleeful demeanour with the bright sparkles bouncing off his face.
Lan Xichen was taken by surprise by how easily his younger brother answered as if it were something normal. It blew his mind further by the amount of tenderness and affection in his brother's expression. But right now, he was uncertain of which way he should turned his face to, as the pair's silent interactions was making him a blushed. He then decided to look away and busied himself in cleaning the table.