The moon was high in the sky, illuminating everything in its silvery glow and the moonlight reflected off the dew on top of the leaves, glimmering beautifully. The grass and dirt that littered the clearing were covered with a thin layer of frost from the cold, crisp night breeze that blew through the land. The duo had been consistent with daily night hunts for a week now.
Tonight, the hunt ended with a wipe out of a herd of Ao Yin, a monstrous creature which looked like big cow, with four huge horns, a fearsome set of fangs. They were often mistaken as regular cattle at first glance but were savage creatures with cruel intellect behind its eyes. It had no morals whatsoever. They could eat anything that was living - human or animal, it didn't matter. However, they favored the flesh and meat of humans. The mountain that these wicked creatures dwelled on was on Yunwu mountain range which was between Yunmeng and Huangpi. The pair heard a from the resident of the small town of Fengshan that many had fall prey to these beasts when they went up to the reservoir that was on the border of the area.
As the hunt ended with a wipe out, a loud whistling tune was carried by the wind rusting the foliage, rang loudly throughout the area. Xiao Zhan let go of the last spirit from his command, allowing the dark tendrils of malice to dissipate. The red tassels that hung from Chen Qing lightly shook as his hands trembled slightly while the last bit of demonic energy gradually fading away. It was not a from exhaustion or fright, but rather from exhilaration that remained.
In normal circumstances, the view of the area right now was like a gory scene straight out of hell itself. There was a thick cloud of stench lingering in the air as the remnants of several beasts scattered the place and the ground beneath were smeared with drying blood. Yet what was more horrifying was how Xiao Zhan spotted a cold tranquil demeanor even though he'd just slaughtered a few dozens of the wicked creatures in the most gruesome way. The spirits he controlled, ripped them apart into pieces without a single care that it became indistinguishable pile of meat.
In all reality, Xiao Zhan was quite aware of the carnage he created, but he felt nothing. Nothing besides the thrill of killing so much that he felt almost euphoric. The thrill of killing things made him feel invigorated, causing his body to act without hesitation or restraint and he enjoyed it immensely. He felt like he was just playing a video game, there was no remorse or guilt attached to each action he took despite knowing full well that it was not a virtual reality simulation of slaughtering hundreds of monsters. Instead of feeling regret at his actions, he just felt an intense sense of accomplishment which kept giving him a pleasant buzz.
Lan Wangji watched silently as Xiao Zhan took in deep breaths of the fresh air and his eyes returned to its normal appearance while he cleaned his blade that was stained with beasts' blood and tucked it into the scabbard. His lover looked unfazed and there was a small smile stretched across his lips that made him look ruthless and dangerous. His red ribbon fluttered along with the movement of his hair and his black robes swished gracefully around his slender and tall figure as he stood motionlessly in the center of the clearing clutching on his flute. The pale light from the full moon casted a faint luminescent aura on the handsome features of the young man who was clearly lost in thought as he gazed off into the distance. This only served to heighten the attractiveness of his appearance that was beyond pleasing to the eye. His hair that was half tied loosely fell past his back highlighted the sharp angles of his features and the soft curve of his jaw. It gave him a nuance of dark elegance that gave of a vibe of untouchable beauty and yet also hinted at a strong sense of fatalism and deadly danger. His enigmatic silvery eyes gave off the feeling of being a part of another realm as if they contained the secrets of the universe and the deepest depths of every person's soul. The stance he held seemed natural, as though he was born for such a role. His whole essence exuded a powerful tangible force which radiated from his entire frame. In a certain light, he sometimes looked almost inhuman. The sight before him left no room for doubt in Lan Wangji's heart that Xiao Zhan belonged to this world and this realm, with him.
Xiao Zhan raised his gaze towards the night sky and closed his eyes as his lips formed a thin line. A moment later, he opened his eyes again and his expression grew thoughtful as he turned towards Lan Wangji and walked towards him. He spoke, "We should probably stop here for tonight."
"There's no other creatures left to hunt anyway. Your summons finished them all off earlier", Lan Wangji pointed at the scattered dead bodies.
Xiao Zhan hummed lightly in agreement and glanced over the corpses, looking a little disappointed, "Hmm, there really isn't that many to begin with."
"Wei Ying, you barely use your sword for this whole hunting." Lan Wangji stated in his usual gentle tone. It was a fact that Xiao Zhan rarely wielded his sword in this one week of night hunts at all.
Xiao Zhan looked at his lover then turned back to gaze once again at the moon above them. "It's pretty convenient not having to fight myself, you know?"
"You're getting too comfortable with it." Lan Wangji reminded gently.
"That's because I have you, Lan Zhan!" Xiao Zhan shrugged as he tucked in the flute on his waistband. He smiled sweetly as he turned to look at Lan Wangji, "And you're doing very good with keeping me safe, so I needn't worry about those that came at me."
Lan Wangji sighed softly and moved closer to his lover, wrapping his arms around him, he asked, "Do you feel any different than usual?"
"What do you mean 'different'? I've always been like this, Lan Zhan." Xiao Zhan replied with a teasing grin.
He could see a hint of concern in Lan Wangji's golden eyes. He reached up, brushing some of the strands of Lan Wangji's hair that were sticking to his forehead with the tip of his fingers.
Lan Wangji turned towards his touch, "I'm glad that I can keep you protected by my side, Wei Ying. But, there's something that seems to have changed. I have never seen such ferocity in you before."
Xiao Zhan paused thoughtfully before admitting, "Honestly, I feel liberated. Stronger, even. I suppose, I do feel different. Maybe that's why I got a little more aggressive."
"Don't you think your summons were more brutal now?" Lan Wangji questioned quietly.
"Maybe, but they were efficient." Xiao Zhan answered in defense.
Lan Wangji added in emotionless tone, "And very violent and messy."
Xiao Zhan couldn't disagree with that as there was a horrific display of mangled bodies of what used to be monsters right in front of their eyes. Their bloodied corpses were strewn everywhere with bones jutting out from the torn carcasses in a grotesque manner. He spoke up after a while, "I don't think that those evil creatures deserved to be pitied. Just look at their nests."
The nests of those Aoyin were filled with many human skeletons and these creatures had tendencies to collect trinkets and trophies from their victims' belongings to decorate their shelter. The number of skulls that could be found in one nest alone would put a museum to shame. Xiao Zhan felt no remorse or pity for these vicious beasts, in fact he felt a little satisfaction and vindication in taking their lives.
The thing that made Lan Wangji worried was not the fact that his beloved had become more cold-blooded in his hunt, but rather, the fact that he had already grown accustomed to the killing of these beings that were so cruel and malicious in nature by commanding a group of assassins made of more terrifying dark spirits and gotten used to such merciless violence and the bloodlust that came with it. If there was such a thing called 'killing for pleasure,' then that's what he had done today.
Lan Wangji couldn't help but be concerned of the side effect of this heretical path that he was on. He didn't want to imagine what might happen if he got corrupted by his own darkness like he saw in his nightmare. What if the dark energy within him became too great? What if he went too far? Lan Wangji shook his head as he tried to banish these thoughts. He loved that man too much and he would be by his lover's side even if he turned out to be the king of underworld himself. Still, he didn't want Xiao Zhan to get hurt from that frightening ability of his. After all, the dark energy that he possessed could lead to corruption of mind and there was also risk of losing controls.
"Let's go back now and we should take a break from night hunts for a couple of nights. We can go to Lotus Pier since it's nearby." Lan Wangji's voice was firm and unyielding as he spoke. With his hand wrapped around the slender waist of his beloved, he led him to walk out from the scene. He added, "I'll play cleansing for you later."
"Alright, sounds good." Xiao Zhan agreed readily. He knew what Lan Wangji was thinking and he couldn't hold it against him for having such thoughts. With one last look around the clearing, he followed along and headed towards the populated area where they would be staying at for the night.
They walked slowly, enjoying the cool night breeze and Xiao Zhan took this moment to observe Lan Wangji who always seemed to retain an air of elegance no matter what he did. His golden eyes twinkled like the stars and the way the moonlight danced in his hair, the slight curve of his lips and his fair skin gave his ethereal looking face another boost in all its attractiveness. It was a beautiful sight; the white fabric billowed behind Lan Wangji; the light blue embroidery gleamed brightly under the night sky. Xiao Zhan's chest warmed in happiness and adoration as he gazed upon his lover.
"Lan Zhan, can I ask you something?" Xiao Zhan suddenly broke the silence between the two of them, bringing both their attentions to him.
"Mn," Lan Wangji hummed, giving Xiao Zhan his undivided attention.
"Tell me honestly. Do you use some sort of secret spell that make you glow? It's like there's a backlight behind you and a light reflector in front of you. How are you so flawless?" Xiao Zhan blurted out as soon as the words came to his mind.
"You're being ridiculous again." Lan Wangji said flatly, shaking his head.
"Come on. Just share your secret with me. I want to look as gorgeous as you are too!" Xiao Zhan teased, wiggling his eyebrows.
Lan Wangji sighed exasperatedly before answering, "Wei Ying, you're beautiful."
"Not as good as you", Xiao Zhan replied with a cheeky grin.
Lan Wangji shook his head at his beloved again and walked faster, leaving him a few steps behind, "Nonsense."
"Ah, Lan Zhan! Wait!" Xiao Zhan exclaimed, hurrying after him. He caught up to him easily and hooked his arm around Lan Wangji's shoulder.
Lan Wangji stopped instantly, turning around to look at Xiao Zhan and smiling faintly when he was met with that mischievous smile of his. He couldn't help the smile that appeared on his face as he glanced at the man next to him. They continued their journey through the forest in silence until Xiao Zhan broke it with his beautiful singing a short moment later. His melodious voice echoed over the woods and was enchanting as always. He seemed unperturbed as if he were completely at ease and absolutely unaffected by the earlier one-sided massacre of an entire pack of their preys.
"I'm hungry." Xiao Zhan announced as they were nearing the town.
"What do you feel like eating?"
"Hm..." Xiao Zhan hummed as he thought hard about what he wanted to eat, "Something spicy."
Lan Wangji nodded and led the way back to their accommodation. A few hours later, Xiao Zhan sighed contentedly as the music from Lan Wangji's qin resonated within the room, accompanying him to sleep after having a satisfying meal full of peppers. He felt like he was in heaven with the company of an angel who were playing lullaby on his harp for him. His eyes fluttered shut as he listened to the calming tune that lulling him into a sense of comfort as he fell asleep.
"Sleep well, Wei Ying, "Lan Wangji whispered as he kissed the smooth forehead of the peaceful looking figure.
The next day, Xiao Zhan was greeted with a hyperactive Xue Yang the moment they reached the dock of Lotus Pier.
"Brother! "Xue Yang literally threw himself onto Xiao Zhan, nearly sending him crashing down, but lucky for him Lan Wangji grabbed him by the shoulders and kept him steady.
"You brat!" Xiao Zhan groaned at the impact as he ruffled the hair of a healthy-looking Xue Yang. "Look at you! You're getting bigger now!"
Xue Yang let out an ecstatic giggle. He then greeted Lan Wangji in a more polite manner but still maintain his cheerful tone, "Wangji-Xiong! I've missed you both."
Lan Wangji flashed a faint smile to him and spoke with a gentle tone, "It's good to see you again, Xue Yang."
Xue Yang immediately returned the gesture and began babbling excitedly about things that happened during these few months as he grabbed Lan Wangji's sleeve. The stoic looking person did not seem to mind as he allowed Xue Yang to speak animatedly about whatever it was that he was excited about while the three of them move forward. After hearing Xue Yang's stories, Xiao Zhan couldn't keep the amused look off his face. His smile caused the boy's face to light up with joy. He declared, "Brother, you should see how much I had improved now!"
"You have grown very quickly, Xue Yang. I can see you are doing well." Xian Zhan noted warmly.
Xue Yang beamed proudly as his eyes glowed bright, "Of course I am! I'm quite smart, you know?"
Xiao Zhan chuckled as he replied. "Yes, yes. You are indeed a clever one."
Jiang Yanli appeared at that time and interjected from behind and exclaimed with a smirk, "And a handful too!"
"Shijie!" Xue Yang pouted in mock offense before he looked directly at Lan Wangji with excitement and added, "I've been behaving well, Wangji-Xiong."
Lan Wangji simply responded with a simple nod and a slight upturn of his mouth.
Xiao Zhan laughed slightly at how frisky Xue Yang was acting. The four of them then walked into the Jiang residence together and Xue Yang continued to chatter away gleefully all the way.
His fond smile never dropped as he observed the growing disposition of the young boy. In just six months, he had grown into a bright-eyed and vibrant boy. He looked hale and hearty, and even looked taller than the last time they saw him. He also had gained more muscle mass and his core had developed rapidly.
"Xue Yang, how was the training? Have you master moves yet?" Xiao Zhan asked curiously.
"Of course! I had learned them all." Xue Yang answered cheerfully, looking up at him through his long lashes.
"Then, let me see how good it your skills is." Xiao Zhan replied with a grin.
"Boys, eat first. Train later." Jiang Yanli interrupted their conversation as she placed a tray of red bean bun on the table in front of them. "Second Young Master Lan, please have some too. You two came a long way."
Lan Wangji thanked her and bowed his head politely before eating one wordlessly.
"Thank you, Shijie." Xiao Zhan said before picking one of the steaming hot buns.
As usual, Xue Yang devoured the snacks with enthusiasm. His taste for sweet things was a huge part of his personality. Xiao Zhan chuckled at his never changing taste buds.
"Xue Yang," Jiang Yanli called his attention, "You've eaten four buns already."
"But Shijie, these buns are so delicious! How can I stop at one? I need one more at least." Xue Yang exclaimed, grabbing another bun and shoved it into his mouth quickly.
Xiao Zhan pinched the boy's chubby cheeks softly, "No wonder you gained weight like this."
"I am a growing boy, Brother." Xue Yang defended himself playfully as he rubbed his cheeks.
Lan Wangji looked at the two, feeling fascinated at how similar they were. The two of them had almost identical expressions and gestures. The same bright eyes, bright smiles, and carefree attitude. Xiao Zhan seemed to have a great influence in Xue Yang's character and Lan Wangji was glad of that. The boy admired Xiao Zhan very much that he made him his role model. The boy who once all frail and skinny, looked happier and healthier in the lively environment of Jiang clan. He concluded that it was a great decision to bring the boy to Yunmeng.
They continued to chat in jovial mood until they all finished eating and they head to the training field where the rest of the disciples flocked the duo with loud excited voices. They were a noisy bunch, but Lan Wangji didn't seem to be bothered at all and returned the disciples courteous bow towards him when they greeted him respectfully. The disciple couldn't help but to gawk at the elegant and handsome Second Jade of Lan, but they didn't get to stare that long as they could feel a death aura from their head disciple who stood beside him that clearly stated: 'He's mine'. They quickly averted their eyes as their gut instincts told them not to covet what wasn't theirs.
"Okay then, Xue Yang. Show us what you've got!" Xiao Zhan said in a challenging tone, standing right in front of Xue Yang with his arms behind his backs.
Xue Yang's small body was filled with a new vigor as he took up the starting position. His eyes shone brighter than ever as he held his wooden sword in front of him in perfect form. With swift movements, he displayed a textbook enactment of Yunmeng Jiang swordsmanship. Xiao Zhan was impressed with how steady Xue Yang's footwork were and how he kept going at his weak points, proving himself to have a sharp deduction skill and highly observant. For a nine-year-old who just enrolled for training half a year ago, his speed, agility and technique were excellent and precise. But despite his quick reflexes, it was obvious from the beginning that there was no way Xiao Zhan could be defeated. He was still young after all, and his opponent was far too skilled for a child. Xiao Zhan kept his hands behind his back, dodging the agile swordplay from the young boy in fluid motions. However, the purpose of this sparring was never about winning the fight but rather to assess how much the boy had progressed.
Lan Wangji's eyes followed their movements, and he could see that Xue Yang had potential to be a formidable swordsman. Although the boy only started out as a beginner but the way his swordplay progressed was definitely remarkable. He complimented the kid after the sparring ended half an hour later, "You did well, Xue Yang."
Xue Yang grinned widely at him. Although he couldn't land a hit on Xiao Zhan, he was still happy as he got to spar with his adopted brother. He then proclaimed, "Brother is too strong. But I'll get better! I'm going to train hard!"
Xiao Zhan chuckled lightly as he patted the boy gently on the head. "I don't doubt it."
Other disciples began cheering at Xue Yang's performance and pulled the boy in a group hug as they exclaimed in boisterous manner, "Our little Xue Yang did so great!"
The boys were obviously fond of Xue Yang as the river of praises kept flowing to encourage their little junior brother. Xiao Zhan was content at seeing Xue Yang smiling and giggling. It really showed that the boy truly appreciated their care and affection towards him. He turned to look at Lan Wangji and said with a tender smile, "He is growing up so fast, isn't he?"
"He looks happy here." Lan Wangji commented honestly.
"Yeah. I am glad he has gotten used to Lotus Pier and receives so much love from everyone." Xiao Zhan replied warmly with an appreciative smile as his gaze softened as it laid upon the laughing, joyful child in front of him.
Lan Wangji glanced over at Xiao Zhan as he stared intently at Xue Yang who was being surrounded by other disciples. He could feel the relief in Xiao Zhan's heart as the boy they rescued from the streets found a place where he belonged, and he was accepted as part of the close knitted society. The boy who was supposed to be a ruthless villain had turned into a cheerful and lovable boy whom everyone loved and wanted to protect.
The rest of the day passed quickly as Xiao Zhan with Lan Wangji never leaving his side, spent some time discussing with the Jiang elders about various matters.
Jiang Fengmian knitted his eyebrow at the complicated patterns carved out of the intricate lines of arrays in the blueprint before him. He spent a few minutes squinting at the lines before passing it over to another inquisitive elder who had the same reaction a second later. He spoke up after a while, "A-Ying, I appreciate your explanation but it's beyond my understanding about all those dimensional stuffs."
Xiao Zhan smiled in understanding as this situation had occurred once and he had already shortened his speech by half this time around. He responded prudently, "My apology, Uncle Jiang. I got used to explaining things in depths after months of meetings with Sect Leader Lan."
"Ah, I see." Jiang Fengmian said smilingly. The other Elders also bobbed their head up and down as they heard his statement and had no qualms about agreeing to put up a barrier as security measure, just in case of any unanticipated intrusion while he was away. They had long heard about their head disciple aiding Gusu Lan sect in upgrading the barrier around Cloud Recesses and in return, Gusu Lan sect had formed a pact of alliance with their clan. Qingheng-Jun who had re-established himself as the sect Leader of Lan sect, had reached out to Jiang Fengmian a few months back to express his gratitude on assistances of the Young Master Wei. Since then, they had pledged to aid each other anytime they needed help or whenever they were faced with any danger. Although it was not Xiao Zhan's original intention, but his actions somehow ended up benefitting Yunmeng Jiang in political and diplomatic sense.
Jiang Fengmian and the elders gathered around as the watched the translucent layers in form of a dome took it shape to an impregnable shield. They did not expect that the array formation that the construct was so intricate and so complex, and they now understood why Sect Leader Lan, who was a highly skilled array master couldn't help but praising him greatly.
This barrier, unlike the one designed for Gusu Lan sect, would still allow the residence of Yunmeng to enter freely as long as they received permission from any of the Jiang Elders. Ciao Zhan did not want to ruin the harmonious and friendly atmosphere that made Yunmeng Jiang unique to other clans. By the sundown, Xiao Zhan had erected a formidable protective barrier around Lotus Pier's entire perimeter.
As Xiao Zhan was drawing the arrays, Xue Yang was standing close to Xiao Zhan, watching him writing down fast tempo spell inscription with interest. He was very curious as to how such powerful barrier could protect Lotus Pier and wanted to learn more. His eyes were full of life and excitement as they tracked the movements of his brother's finger as he put one after another set of glyphs of spells into the sophisticated formation. In response to the questions from Xue Yang, Xiao Zhan explained the elements of the arrays in details, and he was not surprised that the boy would grasp the concepts quickly as he was aware of Xue Yang's intelligence. Even Lan Wangji noticed his wide inquiring eyes and he could tell that Xue Yang felt a strong curiosity about everything that Xiao Zhan did. It appeared like he was trying to learn about everything he observed, and he was not shy about it. Xue Yang's bright innocent eyes were always full of life and excitement when he was around Xiao Zhan.
At dinner time, the entire members of the clan gathered to have a meal together and to catch up on what happened over the last few months while talking loudly as usual. The atmosphere around hall was relaxed and heartwarming and Lan Wangji was glad to see Xiao Zhan having a good time as his blissful laugh came out easily with the continuous flow of conversations. His gaze was on the happy person beside him for most of the time.
Xiao Zhan smiled lovingly at him as he noticed the unrelenting stare and he sneakily placed his hand onto Lan Wangji's under the table. The latter grasped it tight as a response.
Jiang Fengmian had a wide smile on his face as he watched the pair being much more affectionate with each other now than they had been previously. Even the other Elders could see that the two have a special relationship going on between them even if they did not say it aloud. They had no objections even if the pair decided to come out publicly since their clan was a firm believer of freedom and equality in all aspects. If they were happy, nobody would object.
He turned to Lan Wangji, "Second Young Master Lan, how is your father doing?"
Lan Wangji replied calmly, "Father is doing very well, Sect Leader Jiang."
Jiang Fengmian looked at the pair with a knowing smile before asking, "Perhaps I should meet him soon."
Hearing his uncle words, Xiao Zhan snapped his head towards Jiang Fengmian's direction, "Uncle Jiang, I hope you don't have strange ideas again."
"Weird ideas?" Jiang Fengmian chuckled at his words. "What sort of weird ideas do you think I have, A-Ying?"
"I am only sixteen, Uncle Jiang." Xiao Zhan stated, his face flushed with embarrassment.
Jiang Fengmian nodded, "Yes, yes, you're an adult now, A-ying. That reminds me, we havent have the talk yet right?"
Xiao Zhan cleared his throat before sighing exasperatedly, "Uncle Jiang, please drop that idea. I don't need that talk either. Thank you very much."
"You sure?" Jiang Fengmian said while his eyes darted from his nephew to his partner before adding, he narrowed them as he asked, "Or maybe you don't need the talk any longer?"
"No! That's not the case!" Xiao Zhan exclaimed with urgency. He then groaned and buried his face in his palms to hide his aggravation. His uncle doubled up in a loud explosion of laughter.
After a while and with a sore abdominal muscle from all the cackling, Jiang Fengmian wiped off imaginary tears from his eyes. "Alright. No need to get mad at me now, A-Ying. I was merely joking."
Lan Wangji was a little confused of why Jiang Fengmian would laugh so hard at Xiao Zhan's words. He looked at his lover curiously, unsure of what was going on. Xue Yang had the same reaction with him. The two of them were looking at Xiao Zhan like meerkats in the wild. He mouthed to Lan Wangji, "I'll explain later."
"Xue Yang, how about you take a rest? It's getting late for a kid to stay up." Jiang Yanli said suddenly as she reached out her hands to the boy, who took it without any hesitancy. He bowed politely towards the Elders and his two brothers before walking hand-in-hand with the young Lady of Jiang. Jiang Yanli winked playfully at the pair before she went off which caused Xiao Zhan to groan again. Not long after, most of the younger disciples already went back to their own room as it was already dark outside, and the dark sky was littered with a myriad of stars.
The conversation then turned to different topic and Jiang Fengmian was pleased to know that Jiang Cheng had improved immensely. He was proud for how much effort his son put into improving his cultivation and learning how to lead a team while training under the couple. He was just being realistic when it crossed his mind that his son might never surpass his nephew. It was just undeniable fact that the young man's cultivation level had reached a new height of supremacy and the rumor about his capabilities was a hot topic in cultivation world nowadays. Therefore, when the youth suggested a barrier to be put up, he agreed to it readily since that kind of attraction might bring unwanted and possibly dangerous attention from some. Despite that, he was still proud to call the bright young man as his nephew.
The joyous mood continued as they enjoyed more food and jars liquor were brought out to the table. It seemed that the banquet would continue until late. When one member offered Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji some wine, Xiao Zhan drank on behalf of his lover since he knew that beautiful person couldn't handle alcohol at all. "I'll drink on his behalf".
"You'll get drunk with just a cup." Xiao Zhan whispered to Lan Wangji when the man looked at him with a puzzled expression. He emphasized again, "Like crazy drunk."
"Mn." Lan Wangji nodded in response and felt grateful that he didn't have to drink. Not that he wanted to, anyway.
It was getting noisier as the time passed. There were several stories that went back years ago being passed around the table and they recalled the many incidents that happened when they were young. Lan Wangji also learned many interesting facts of the young version of Wei Wuxian through their conversations. Xiao Zhan on the other hand, kept his mouth shut when it came to that as he was not the one who actually did all that and he kept emptying the cup was refilled endlessly. He felt a little uncomfortable talking about the memories that did not belong to him although it did feel like he had lived through all that. He lost count on how many rounds it had been and before he knew it, he had drunk way too much wine. To be fair, everyone in Jiang Sect knew that Wei Wuxian loved alcohol and so, they kept pouring it for him.
Lan Wangji stopped him from downing another cup as he noticed that Xiao Zhan's face was heated up with reddish tint and he looked sleepy, "Wei Ying, I think that's enough of liquor."
Xiao Zhan just leaned languidly against his lover without a word and his hand instinctively went loosely across Lan Wangji's waist. He didn't even bother about some glances that thrown towards their direction.
Lan Wangji sighed helplessly as he held Xiao Zhan's waist to keep him upright. He then turned to Jiang Fengmian who looked perfectly sober despite having a few jars of alcohol himself and asked his permission, "Sect Leader Jiang, may I take Wei Ying to his room?"
Jiang Fengmian took a glance at his nephew who was already dozing with his head comfortably resting at Lan Wangji's shoulder. He smiled softly and nodded, "Go ahead, second Young Master Lan. Have a good night too."
Lan Wangji bowed politely to the older man before supporting Xiao Zhan's weight with an arm around his waist. Halfway through, Lan Wangji ultimately decided that it was easier to just carry him in his arms when the tipsy lover of his started to trip every few steps. He carefully placed him onto his bed as Xiao Zhan leaned heavily against him, his body warm from the alcohol and contrasted with the cold of the night. He gently removed the outer layers of his clothing as well as his shoes and placed them neatly at the side.
"Sleep well, Wei Ying." Lan Wangji said softly as he placed a kiss on his forehead after making sure that Xiao Zhan was comfortably tucked in under the blanket.
Xiao Zhan's eye opened slightly as he felt the soft lips on his forehead. He wrapped his arms around Lan Wangji's neck and pulled him closer. He murmured against his ear, "Stay."
Lan Wangji froze slightly as Xiao Zhan's lips brushed lightly on his neck. This whole thing felt like a Deja vu to him, and it brought back the memory of the second time Xiao Zhan had kissed him. His heart pounded furiously in his chest as Xiao Zhan pressed his lips onto his right after that.
The two had kissed countless of times. However, this one made him feel the same burning desire and it intensified further when his lover deepened the kiss even further. It clouded his judgement, and he could not stop himself from indulging into the heat of the moment. He could feel his heart pounding hard inside his ribcage. Xiao Zhan moved his hand slowly towards Lan Wangji's hair and entangled his fingers in its silky strands when his lips traveled down to explore the soft skin beneath his jawline and the smooth column of his throat. His breathing accelerated when he heard the other moaned softly and a shiver ran through him. It also brought him to his senses a little and he pulled back with a gasp. He finally realized his actions and he could see Xiao Zhan's dilated pupils staring back at him. He could see that Xiao Zhan was panting heavily while his lips were swollen and pink from the heated exchange with him.
"Wei Ying, you're drunk." Lan Wangji voiced as he slowly backed away to put a distance between them. He didn't want to take advantage of the situation no matter how tempting it was.
Xiao Zhan blinked several times before shaking his head and saying, "No I'm not. "
"You are." Lan Wangji said firmly, and he was not wrong. Xiao Zhan was definitely under the influence of alcohol.
Xiao Zhan stared deeply into Lan Wangji's eyes before frowning. He insisted stubbornly, "I am not drunk."
Lan Wangji sighed in defeat as he knew that it was useless to argue with a drunk person. He stroked the long locks and urged him softly, "You should sleep, Wei Ying."
"Sleep with me, Lan Zhan." Xiao Zhan uttered as he pulled Lan Wangji down forcefully into bed with him and snuggled up close to him. His hand held onto Lan Wangji's waist tightly, refusing to let go. He buried his head on Lan Wangji's shoulder before mumbling, "Please stay."
Lan Wangji exhaled a heavy breath as he resigned to his fate and finally gave in to his plea while his hand moved to hug his lover protectively. "Okay."
Xiao Zhan hummed in satisfaction and buried his face in the crook of his neck as he nuzzled his face against it. Their bodies were pressed closely against each other. His voice was husky when he murmured, "I love you."
Lan Wangji was petrified in his current position as he felt Xiao Zhan pressed his soft kisses against his neck. He had never felt this anxious or scared before and he felt himself shaking slightly. His breathing quickened and he could hear the blood rushing in his ears as his heart hammered relentlessly in his chest. He was trying so hard to fight the urge and hearing those words at this point only ignited the fire that was burning within him even more.
Not hearing any reply, Xiao Zhan lifted his head slightly to gaze deeply into Lan Wangji's eyes, he demanded insistently, "You suppose to say I love you too."
"...I love you too, Wei Ying," Lan Wangji could hear his voice trembling as he finally said it. Even though he tried hard to remain calm, he couldn't hide the fact that he was on the brink of losing control.
" You're mine, Lan Zhan... " Xiao Zhan murmured tenderly as he nestled his cheek against Lan Wangji's neck once more. His hands wandered to rest on his chest where he felt that the beating of his heart was almost imperceptible. "...so that means, I'm yours."