The sound of the birds tweeting their peaceful songs drifted through the air as Lan Wangji led Xiao Zhan back to the main road. His hand curled protectively around Xiao Zhan's slender waist as they walked down the path that meandered between the thick trees of the forest. Now that they had crossed the point of no return, he couldn't help feeling possessive towards the man he loved so deeply and passionately. He had promised Xiao Zhan that they would only discuss about taking the next step of their relationship when the war was over, and the world wasn't at stake. The need to put all thoughts into their goals was paramount at this moment, and yet he could not stop himself from yearning for more time with Xiao Zhan.
Xiao Zhan's hair was falling loosely over his shoulder as they walked together, the soft red ribbon swaying gently in the wind. He took a deep breath as the air filled his lungs, savoring the warm feeling in his chest before he turned toward Lan Wangji and smiled up at him.
"Let's just get this done so we can have our happily ever after," His voice sounded soft as honey in the sunlight, and it echoed throughout the woods.
"Mn." Lan Wangji nodded in agreement and then tightened his grip on Xiao Zhan as they stepped past the last tree line before heading directly toward the entrance to the Impure Realm.
The good news was, they were still thirty minutes ahead of Nie Mingjue and his subordinates. The bad news was, they still got some work to do in the Qinghe Nie Sect and things would only be more hectic after this. Which means, they would not have much time to spare in the nearest future to be able to spend quality alone time together.
They didn't waste time and went straight to see Sect leader Nie in his official chamber and report on the event that transpired in the village and the rest of the aftermath.
Xiao Zhan sighed softly before speaking a whole lot of explanation with a little toning down and glossing over certain points that he deemed unnecessary, or anything related to his demonic cultivation.
When the report came to an end, Sect Leader Nie looked very perturbed and rubbed his forehead without uttering a single word. Finally, he cleared his throat and spoke up, his tone was distraught, "That was very unfortunate. If only I hadn't allowed those disciples from that Laoling Qin clan to do their night hunting here, then none of this could have happened."
"It's hardly your fault, Sect Leader Nie," Xiao Zhan stated, "No one could've predicted that to happen."
"Yes, but I should have more alert on such matters and deal with the beasts sooner. That was my negligence and due to that, innocent lives were lost." The elder lamented.
"You couldn't have known what they would do," Xiao Zhan said with a bitter look on his face, "We can only move forward and try to make sure it doesn't happen again."
"You are right, Young Master Wei." Sect Leader Nie smiled weakly, "By the way, where is Mingjue? Isn't he with you two?"
"I'm here, Father." Nie Mingjue suddenly spoke up, stepping through the entrance of the chamber. His gaze flitted between the pair and sect leader Nie, as he spoke, "I'm sorry I'm late. I assume these two brats had briefed you already about the events that occurred."
"You're not late Chifeng-zun. We're simply early." Xiao Zhan remarked with a small smile.
Nie Mingjue rolled his eyes slightly, "Right. You two were too fast for us to even catch up."
"And you were too slow for us." Lan Wangji corrected him.
What is going on with these two?
Xiao Zhan could almost see electricity crackling in the air as they stared daggers into each other's eyes. It took a great effort for Xiao Zhan not to chuckle and broke the tension by telling Lan Wangji to stand down. As usual Lan Wangji obliged to his lover's request.
Sect leader Nie looked amused by this exchange as he could admit that his eldest son was not the friendliest person. In fact, it was rare to see Nie Mingjue acting so cordial with anyone towards people he just knew for few days. So, to see him conversing so casually like a young adult, was a sight to behold.
"Father, did they tell you that they took down the beast by themselves?" Nie Mingjue inquired. "I was not helpful at all and these two would've taken care of everything themselves even without me."
"Oh, really?" Sect Leader Nie raised his brow.
Nie Mingjue then looked at Xiao Zhan with clear admiration in his eyes, "Also, Young Master Wei here killed the Ning alone."
This revelation caused sect leader Nie to widen his eyes in surprise, "I didn't expect that. What an admirable feat!"
At this comment, Xiao Zhan's expression hardened. He intentionally left out that part when he relayed the story to Sect Leader Nie. He was not exactly proud of this achievement and didn't want any credit for it since he lost control of himself when it happened. If anything, it also served as a lesson to him how important it was to be careful with controlling his powers, especially when they were under duress and danger. And to hear someone else say that he was 'admirable in front of his face, made him feel slightly embarrassed. But he kept his composure and simply replied," I was just lucky."
Nie Mingjue just blinked blankly at Xiao Zhan before shaking his head, "Young Master Wei, you are really something. Luck had nothing to do with it. It took you less than an hour to kill that creature. Not to forget that you shredded a ferocious beast into pile of meats."
He then glanced over at sect leader Nie and stated, "And Father, I suppose you must know, Young Master Wei also saved my life, and I am indebted to him for that."
Sect leader Nie gave Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji a once over, before smiling gratefully towards them, "I suppose we owe you our gratitude then. If there's anything we can do to repay you then, please let me know."
Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji exchanged a quick look and decided to take this opportunity to request a favor from sect leader Nie. "Sect Leader Nie, we do have something we would like to ask of you."
"Of course, if you think that it's within my power to grant it, you may ask away." sect leader Nie responded immediately. He clasped his hands as he studied Xiao Zhan with keen observation. "Please, tell me what exactly the matter is."
"We have a proposition for you and your sect," Xiao Zhan replied, getting right to the point, "It is a deal of mutual benefit."
Sect leader Nie tilted his head questioningly at this, "A deal of mutual benefit?"
"Yes, and I will be very blunt from now on," Xiao Zhan stated, turning to look at sect leader Nie who appeared intrigued. He went on without hesitation as he stated, "Your clan uses the resentful energy of beasts and creatures to cultivate your sabers, am I right?"
"How did you know that?!" Sect Leader Nie looked at him in wariness. This was a secret that his clan had managed to keep hidden for centuries. No one outside his clan is supposed to know.
"That is not important right now." Xiao Zhan responded quickly. "What if I tell you that there is a person who can manage the side effects caused by that method? Are you willing to listen further?"
Xiao Zhan watched Sect Leader Nie carefully as the other man took a slow deliberate breath, thinking hard about his proposal. Eventually, Sect Leader Nie exhaled deeply and nodded his head solemnly, "Please continue."
"We believe this person can provide the assistance needed to prevent the qi deviation caused by the prolonged use of your cultivation and her methods might allow you to overcome this obstacle and be rid of the resentment you are currently experiencing." Xiao Zhan explained calmly and concisely.
"Who is this person?" Nie Mingjue spoke up, sounding a little skeptic.
"Her name is Wen Qing. I'm sure you know who she is." Xiao Zhan answered.
"Yes, she is the niece of Wen Ruohan." Sect leader Nie said as he nodded slowly.
"But do you know that she is a genius healer?" Xiao Zhan questioned, keeping his tone neutral and noncommittal.
This claim caught Sect Leader Nie slightly aback, "Really? I know that she mastered liberal arts, but is she really gifted in medical skill too?"
Xiao Zhan nodded. "She has been practicing medicine since she was a child. In addition to being a talented doctor, she is also a brilliant acupuncturist and a superb herbalist. In terms of spiritual ailments, she is far better than anyone else. Maybe even the best among all. "
Nie Mingjue looked at Xiao Zhan inquisitively, "How do you come to know all this? Wait, are you in relationship with Wen Qing?"
"No, he's not!" Lan Wangji denied that offensive statement in a heartbeat. His conspicuous glaring was cold enough to freeze the Antarctica once more and stop global warming.
Looking at Lan Wangji's strong reaction upon and how Xiao Zhan flashed a look of displeasure at his words, Nie Mingjue gathered that he just asked such a stupid question. How could he forget how intimate these two were acting earlier. He wasn't entirely oblivious, especially with the duo's blatant display of affection whenever they were around each other. Of course, it was impossible for him to miss the hints that they were more than mere close friends no matter how weird it seemed to him. But their private affairs were not his business anyway. They were both cultivators whose skills surpassed even his and he wouldn't be able to understand the dynamics of their relationship if he tried to. But he still continued to press, "Then, how are you close with Young Lady Wen, Young Master Wei?"
"She's like an elder sister to me." Xiao Zhan answered without even batting an eye. He emphasized, "She's family."
Sect Leader Nie seemed surprised by his words. "Family? Forgive me to ask this, but how exactly are you related to the Wen clan?"
"Not the whole Wen clan. Only Wen Qing, Wen Ning and the rest in her subdivision." Xiao Zhan clarified and continued, "You don't have to have a blood relation with someone to be a family."
Sect Leader Nie's interest grew even stronger upon hearing Xiao Zhan's response and inquired, "How did you become acquainted with them then?"
"I've known them for some time, and you can say that I am indebted to them. Hence, I have promised that I will protect them no matter what."
Lan Wangji's eyebrow twitched ever so slightly at Xiao Zhan's response. He knew that his lover felt obligated to save those whom he considered his family and as much as he supported him in everything he decided to do, his heart ached with worry, and he somehow wished that Xiao Zhan didn't put himself in such a position. He knew that it was selfish of him to think so, but he couldn't help it.
Sect Leader Nie's eyes softened, and he couldn't help but stare into Xiao Zhan's silvery ones with many questions in his minds, "Protect them from what? From whom?"
Xiao Zhan paused for a moment. He glanced briefly at Lan Wangji who nodded slightly before continuing, "What I am about to tell you is highly confidential but before I can disclose this information, can you swear not to reveal to anyone that we discussed this subject?"
Both Sect Leader Nie and Nie Mingjue looked taken back by the seriousness in Xiao Zhan's tone. However, they still answered readily, "We swear on our honors that we will hold it in trust until our last breath."
Xiao Zhan stared intensely at them both as he uttered in a firm voice, "Soon, we will have a war against Wen Ruohan and it is inevitable."
"A war?!" Both of them exclaimed simultaneously.
The duo nodded and began explaining further and informing on their findings from their recent espionage missions, as well as their plans to counter his attack.
Afterward, both father and son were left stunned, staring at the two youths in front of them, completely shocked and utterly confounded by their intelligence report. These boys were meticulous and had uncovered so much about the inner workings of their enemy that they felt a little overwhelmed. Their intel was astonishingly detailed, and their perceptive minds left them speechless. It had never occurred to them that young men could come up with intricate military warfare tactics and talk about them like it was a casual topic. They couldn't help but feel grateful that these two young men were in the same side with them and for their clan's sake, they would not even want to imagine if the duo was their foe.
"This is where my proposal comes in." Xiao Zhan said after explaining everything thoroughly. "I need your help to take in Wen Qing and her family under your refuge until the battle ends. In return, Wen Qing will provide treatments to stabilize your qi channels to prevent the backlash as well as other medical needs."
"Didn't you just said that we're going for a war with the Wens?" Nie Mingjue questioned, "But you want us to shelter the members of Wen clan? "
"They're different from the rest of the Wen clan and they are willing to leave their clan. They are good people." Xiao Zhan replied without hesitation. He added, "And like I said earlier, they're like family to me. I won't abandon them."
"I see." Sect Leader Nie gave him a curious look before shaking his head slightly and asking once again, "If I may be so bold, Young Master Wei, why did you come to us instead of seeking the help of your clan leader? Why not ask your uncle to provide refuge for them in Lotus Pier?"
"To be honest, Impure Realm is much better in terms of defense. Besides, your sect needs Wen Qing's ability so it will be a win-win situation." Xiao Zhan replied with his usual straightforward honesty. "I trust your clan's integrity in upholding justice and fairness. I also believed that your clan's in its entirety, is a better match in term of fighting style against Wen Ruohan's underlings."
"That makes sense." Sect Leader Nie said while rubbing his chin. He then asked, "Young Master Wei, how did you find out about the secret of our clan's cultivation method."
"Well, that is one complicated story. If I tell you now, I'm afraid you won't believe me." Xiao Zhan replied nonchalantly with a smile. It was not a story he wanted to share for today since he already shared plenty. "But rest assured, I have no plan to expose that secret regardless of the outcome of this conversation."
Sect Leader Nie could see that he was not going to get an answer for that question today and did not push further. He then contemplated deeply on the proposal, clearly mulling over the options before him. After a long silent period of thinking, he spoke, his tone hesitant, "...And you trust in these abilities of hers?"
"Yes." Xiao Zhan spoke with confidence. "She has studied the subject extensively and I can vouch for her skill."
"This deal is surely of a mutual benefit like you said," Sect Leader Nie said slowly, his gaze shifting between Xiao Zhan and Lan Wangji, he then added, "I want to help you, but I have a condition before I can promise anything to you."
When Xiao Zhan heard those words, he was slightly taken aback but he remained calm as he spoke, "Please state it."
Sect Leader Nie offered him a warm smile, "Not only you saved my son's life, Young Master Wei. You've shown yourself to be an excellent cultivator and a knowledgeable man. What do you say if I am to adopt you as my son?"
What???
The moment those words left Sect Leader Nie's lips, silence fell in the room as all three disciples gawked at him, their expressions spelled outright astonishment. Xiao Zhan could hardly believe this turn of events and was lost of words momentarily.
Nie Mingjue was the first to react though. He was delighted by the prospect of having a brother like Wei Wuxian who, in his eyes, was the embodiment of a perfect cultivator. He grinned, obviously accepting of the notion, and declared, "Well, I don't mind if you are to be my brother too."
...The fuck?
Xiao Zhan choked on air. He couldn't believe what he just heard. He asked the elder again just to be sure, "You want to adopt me?"
"Yes." Sect Leader Nie affirmed. His expression serious and earnest as he looked at Xiao Zhan with so much conviction. He pointed out, "I understand that this is too sudden for you to just accept but let me put it this way. If you become my son, I will have a solid reason to convince the other elders to agree to your request. It's the only way that I can serve as your guarantor for their safety and protection."
Ah... I see... This must be where Huaisang got his conniving nature.
He gave Xiao Zhan another gentle smile, "Besides I'm quite fond of you and I think you are getting along with both my sons very well."
Xiao Zhan pondered about it for a while, thinking through all pros and cons of the request had presented him with. He took a breath and turned to Lan Wangji, asking his opinion on this development.
Lan Wangji looked thoughtful for a moment. He then said, "As long as you will stay with me in Gusu, it's fine with me."
Oh, Lan Zhan. That's what you're worried about?
Sect Leader Nie let out an amused laugh while shaking his head, "Don't worry. You can stay wherever you please. I won't impose any restrictions on you."
Hmm... This is not bad of a deal. Maybe even better than what I originally intended. It won't hurt to give it a try, right?
Xiao Zhan finally nodded in agreement, "Alright, I accept. So, do we have a deal?"
"Yes, we do! Then I shall begin preparations to make this arrangement official as well as to welcome you to our family." Sect Leader Nie replied with enthusiastic smile. He patted Xiao Zhan on his shoulder, "You two must be tired now. Why don't you take a rest to recuperate? We can talk more during dinner."
Xiao Zhan smiled warmly in response, "Thank you, Sect Leader Nie."
"I think you should start calling me father now," Sect Leader Nie told Xiao Zhan as he smiled, making Xiao Zhan blush slightly.
This is going to be hard to get used to.
"Oh... Thank you, Father..." Xiao Zhan replied awkwardly.
"Good." Sect Leader Nie nodded in satisfaction. "That's settled then. Now go and get some rest. I'll send someone to call you both when it's time for dinner."
He then called a servant to show them to their rooms. A young lady servant appeared beside Xiao Zhan and spoke in a soft voice, "Let me escort you to your chambers, Young Masters."
Xiao Zhan nodded and smiled politely at her, "Alright, thank you."
*******
The girl looked young and had a delicate appearance. When she saw Xiao Zhan's bright smile, she blushed faintly before turning around and leading the way to the guest rooms. The couple bowed to both older men respectfully before leaving the room.
Xiao Zhan walked behind her while thinking about all that had happened today. He felt like he could breathe again, knowing that everything had gone off without a hitch. Although he never expected to gain another ally this way, it wasn't exactly a bad thing either. Somehow this idea seemed to fit better into his plans.
Now all he needed to do was get Wen Qing and her family to Impure Realm and the best time for that was during the Qishan Wen Discussion conference that would happen in few months' times. Once done, he would be able to ensure that their safety and they'd be protected from the aftermath of the war.
He was so lost in thoughts that he didn't realize that the girl servant had stopped walking to pick up something she dropped on the ground and collided with her.
Xiao Zhan instinctively reached out to support her by grasping onto her shoulders and steadying her. Her eyes widened in surprise at the contact and Xiao Zhan was quick to retract his hand and quickly going back to his proper distance from her. "Sorry."
Her face reddened significantly as she bowed her head repeatedly while holding her hands together tightly in front of her chest, looking scared. She apologized profusely, "My apologies Young Master Wei, I'm so clumsy. Please forgive me."
"That's alright. I should be the one apologizing, I was absentminded." Xiao Zhan said gently.
"No, Young Master Wei. I shouldn't stop abruptly like that." The girl servant continued looking apologetic as she bowed her head down even further and repeated her words to Xiao Zhan, "I'm sorry. Please forgive me."
Lan Wangji frowned deeply as he watched the scene unfolded. He stepped forward, grabbed Xiao Zhan's shoulder and gently pulled him to his side. His voice lowered to as he spoke in a cold manner to the servant, "How careless of you. You ought to be more alert on your surroundings."
The girl servant flinched at the sight of his sharp glare and his harsh tone. She immediately bowed her head once again, her voice shook a little, "My apology, Young Master Lan. I'll be more careful."
Xiao Zhan noticed that the girl seemed shaken by Lan Wangji's reprimand and how pitiful she looked. He sighed softly before speaking to Lan Wangji, "Lan Zhan, you don't have to be so stern with her. It was my fault."
A look of dissatisfaction flashed across Lan Wangji's features as he kept his glare fixed at her, "Let's just continue walking."
"Yes, Young Master Lan." The servant answered obediently as she hurriedly walked a few steps ahead of them to lead the way. She kept her head lowered, silently following the path.
Lan Wangji's grip on Xiao Zhan's shoulders tightened and Xiao Zhan could hear his low, firm voice in his ear, "You too should be watching where you're going, Wei Ying."
Xiao Zhan pouted and muttered, "You could have warned me."
"You have such beautiful eyes. Use them properly." Lan Wangji replied indifferently.
Xiao Zhan rolled his eyes and protested petulantly, "Why are you so cranky now?"
"..." Lan Wangji did not reply verbally, but his expression betrayed his inner feelings.
"Ah, I see it now." Xiao Zhan mused as he shook his head slightly, "You're jealous, huh?"
"I'm not." Lan Wangji said as he avoided looking at Xiao Zhan who was staring at him intently.
"Young Masters, we have arrived." The servant announced in timid voice when they reached the corridor of the guest rooms, gesturing to the rooms that they were going to use. She then turned to Xiao Zhan and said, "I'm sorry once again, Young Master Wei and thank you for helping me earlier. If you ever needed anything, please feel free to ask and I'll do my best to help you."
Lan Wangji knitted his brows in irritation, "Do not bother. Wei Ying does not-"
Before he could complete his sentence, Xiao Zhan quickly interrupted by clamping his hand over Lan Wangji's mouth. He smiled apologetically at the servant. "It's fine. I don't need anything else for now. You may go."
Lan Wangji glared at him, clearly displeased with his action.
The girl servant seemed to notice that there was something special between the two of them. However, she pretended not to know anything and simply bid them both farewell and left.
Once she was gone, Xiao Zhan immediately removed his hand from Lan Wangji's mouth and his lips quirked upward in a smirk, "Lan Er Gege, you said you're not jealous. How could you treat the poor girl like that? Manners, Second Young Master Lan. Manners."
Lan Wangji stared at him icily as he grumbled in annoyance, "I told you not to call me that. "
Xiao Zhan laughed out loud, "Okay, okay. Alright, stop being a baby."
Lan Wangji's golden irises fixed on Xiao Zhan, the dark gaze boring into his very soul before saying with utmost seriousness, "Wei Ying, you should not provoke me like this."
"Your jealousy is pretty cute, Lan Zhan." Xiao Zhan giggled as they began walking once again.
"Ridiculous." Lan Wangji gave a faint huff as his eyes flashed with annoyance before continuing to walk away.
"Ah, I haven't heard that one for a long time." Xiao Zhan exclaimed as he ran after Lan Wangji and laughed out loud when he caught up.
"..."
"You're adorable when you're jealous."
"..."
"Oh Lan Zhan~."
"..."
"Wow, you must really be jealous!"
"..." Lan Wangji glanced at Xiao Zhan out of the corner of his eye before walking ahead towards his room, ignoring Xiao Zhan completely as he did so.
"See you later then." Xiao Zhan said with a cheeky grin and waved at Lan Wangji before entering his own room and closing the door behind him. He sat down on the bed and smiled to himself as he gazed up at the ceiling.
It had been a tiring trip, one filled with a whirlwind of emotions and unexpected twists and turns. But most important of all, his relationship status with Lan Wangji had reached a new level of intimacy.
A warm, fuzzy feeling engulfed him as his heart began to thump rapidly against his chest and he lay down on his bed, burying his flushed face into his palms. He couldn't stop smiling and the warmth he experienced from his heart was indescribable.
Oh God. I must be crazy. What am I even doing? Why am I acting like a real teenager? Xiao Zhan, you're an adult. Calm down. Focus on the pressing matters at hand. Focus. Focus.
Nevertheless, Xiao Zhan still couldn't stop the stupid grin that stretched across his lips. He lay there for a while longer before writing a quick message to Wen Qing to update her on the situation. Once he received a reply from Wen Qing which came a few minutes later, acknowledging his plan, he then went ahead to take a refreshing shower. After finishing cleaning up and changing into a set of fresh clothes, Xiao Zhan sat down cross-legged to meditate. His breathing slowed down until it was almost as quiet as the night wind which rustled the leaves outside his window. A peaceful tranquility enveloped him, and he allowed his thoughts to empty.
He opened his eyes an hour later when he felt a pair of hands hugging his waist from behind. His lips curled into a soft smile as he nuzzled deeper into the warmth emitting from his boyfriend. He reached his hand to rub Lan Wangji's cheek gently and spoke, "Have you had enough of your sulking?"
"I wasn't sulking." Lan Wangji answered with a pouty tone as he leaned into Xiao Zhan's caress and closed his eyes.
"Is that right? Why are you pouting then?" Xiao Zhan teased softly as he continued rubbing his cheeks. His fingers trailed up along Lan Wangji's jawline and under his chin.
Lan Wangji glowered at him and bit his fingers in retaliation.
"Ah! Stop biting!" Xiao Zhan protested as he pulled his hand away and massaged it and grumbled, "Are you really a puppy?"
Lan Wangji glared at Xiao Zhan for a while before huffing a heavy exhale. He wrapped his arms around Xiao Zhan and hugged him tightly as he buried his face into the crook of Xiao Zhan's neck. His eyes fell shut as he felt Xiao Zhan's fingers running soothing circles in his back.
"Are you still mad at me?" Xiao Zhan asked softly.
Lan Wangji took a deep breathe through his nose before replying calmly, "No."
"Really now? You look like you're going to bite me again," Xiao Zhan lifted the corner of his lips into an amused smile.
Lan Wangji let out a small groan in frustration, "I won't."
"You know how unreasonable you acted earlier, right?" Xiao Zhan reminded him quietly as he continued to card his hands through Lan Wangji's hair. "You need to relax, Lan Zhan. I'm not going anywhere."
Lan Wangji relaxed his body immediately and held onto Xiao Zhan tightly as if afraid that he might leave him at any moment. He whispered earnestly, "I'm sorry."
Xiao Zhan's expression softened at his reaction. He placed a gentle kiss on Lan Wangji's forehead, his lips touched the soft texture of the headband that was covering the smooth skin underneath. "There. Are we good now?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji slowly opened his eyes and met Xiao Zhan's bright gaze. They gazed at each other quietly before their faces inched closer and their lips finally connected in a languid kiss.
A soft knock on the door sounded through the quiet night and the couple jumped apart before answering it. A servant stood outside and greeted them, "Young Masters, it's time for dinner."
"Alright, we'll be right out," replied Xiao Zhan before turning to Lan Wangji and smiled, "Let's go then."
********
The duo walked towards the dining hall where everyone had already gathered. They were like a perfect match, as always. They both good looking men with great presence and it was not an understatement to say that every woman even men present was enamored by their visuals.
Lan Wangji's ethereal beauty, coupled with his elegant yet strong bearing, made him look like a deity who has just descended from heaven. Xiao Zhan was just as stunning and graceful in appearance, but with a warmer, more friendly aura that contrasted against Lan Wangji's cold elegance.
"Come sit over there." Sect Leader Nie approached them with a proud smile on his face and gestured to a seat on one side of the long table with Nie Mingjue and several other elders seated there waiting for their arrival.
Nie Mingjue gave a small nod as he waved them over to where he was seated. A smile curling at the edge of his mouth and eyes twinkling with approval.
The pair made their way to their seats that was reserved for them, bowing deeply and respectfully to the guests in the room before sitting next to each other. The food was then served and Sect leader Nie motioned for them to eat first.
While dining, Nie Mingjue ecstatically briefed Xiao Zhan on the clan's motto which had been passed down from generation to generation throughout history and all that jazz.
Xiao Zhan was already worn out from listening to Nie Mingjue ramble endlessly about the heritage of the Nie family.
I'm starting to think that agreeing to be adopted into this family is a bad idea.
"Everyone, grab your drinks." Sect Leader Nie exclaimed and clapped his hands together. He raised his cup," From today onwards, Wei Wuxian of Yunmeng Jiang will be my son. So, please refer to him as such, and treat him accordingly. Now, let's toast! To the new member of our family!"
"To Wei Wuxian, my new brother!" Nie Mingjue raised his glass and the group followed suit and took a drink. Looking at the untouched cup in front of Xiao Zhan, the older male urged, "It will be rude to refuse a toast on your name, brother."
The pair was embroiled in a dilemma at that remark. Xiao Zhan had promised not to touch alcohol while Lan Wangji couldn't drink anyway.
"It's okay, Wei Ying. You can drink a cup." Lan Wangji reassured him. He knew why Xiao Zhan was reluctant to drink alcohol but there really wasn't another choice right now.
"Okay. Just one cup." And so, Xiao Zhan drank one cup. The elders gave smiles of approval in response and the entire hall erupted into cheers as they celebrated. Xiao Zhan couldn't help smiling as he gazed at the crowd around him. He noticed everyone was welcoming of him and he had to admit that their enthusiasm warmed him deeply.
"Young Master Wei, can I sit here with you?" A female Nie disciple asked with a slight blush on her pretty face.
Lan Wangji stared at the girl with an air of hostility as she approached close to their seats.
Xiao Zhan quickly put a hand on Lan Wangji's arm and squeezed gently to prevent him from acting out once more. With a calm yet serious expression, he rejected the girl politely, "I'm afraid not, Young Lady."
The female disciple froze for a moment, glancing back and forth between the pair before smiling knowingly. She raised her cup of wine and said, "Then, let's just toast to each other!"
Xiao Zhan watched as Lan Wangji grew even more visibly displeased but the lady did not seem to falter. She was used to this kind of aggressive reaction from the hot-tempered Nie Mingjue after all.
"I'll toast on his behalf." Lan Wangji stated flatly before taking the cup in front of Xiao Zhan that was already refilled earlier.
"Yah! What are you doing?! You can't drink!" He exclaimed worriedly, trying to reach out and stop Lan Wangji, but his attempts were ignored completely.
Lan Wangji drank the entire cup within seconds before placing it back onto the table calmly as if nothing had happened. He turned to look at Xiao Zhan and stated, "You said you would only drink a cup."
"Lan Zhan!" Xiao Zhan cried out indignantly as he caught Lan Wangji who fell unconscious on his shoulder. He sighed, "You silly idiot..."
"Did he just pass out from one drink?" Nie Mingjue questioned in amazement and shock as he stared at the now sleeping body of Lan Wangji who lay heavily against Xiao Zhan.
"Yeah. Pretty much." Xiao Zhan sighed tiredly simply as he tried to shake Lan Wangji awake. He then turned to Sect Leader Nie and asked for his permission to retreat back to their rooms.
"Go ahead, son. Rest well," Sect Leader Nie encouraged with a smile as he nodded his head with approval.
Xiao Zhan spoke gently, "Lan Zhan, let's go back to the room."
"Mn." Lan Wangji murmured sleepily as he clung onto Xiao Zhan tightly.
After bidding farewell to the elders, Xiao Zhan carefully helped Lan Wangji up slowly, supporting his weight as he dragged his lover back to the room. Lan Wangji was completely out of it, and his drunken antics began. He insisted on walking round and round and it took Xiao Zhan a lot of coaxing to bring him back inside the bedchamber.
This cute drunkard... This is exhausting. Ah, this must be how you felt when I was drunk the last time. Looks like the table has turned this time.
After almost half an hour of persuasion, Xiao Zhan finally managed to get Lan Wangji into bed. He removed his outerwear and his headpiece so that the man can sleep comfortably. Looking at the drowsy figure in front of him, Xiao Zhan couldn't help it but to pinch Lan Wangji's cheek, "I told you that you can't tolerate alcohol."
Lan Wangji groaned and rubbed the spot Xiao Zhan pinched, "It hurts..."
"So, you know what pain is." Xiao Zhan chuckled before bending over to brush a soft kiss on the sore spot, "You're really a handful, you know that?"
Lan Wangji blinked up at him drowsily, "Wei Ying."
"Yes, Lan Zhan?" Xiao Zhan caressed the side of Lan Wangji's face softly, his finger tracing the contours of his face as if committing him to memory.
"You're the most beautiful person in the world." Lan Wangji said quietly with a small smile on his face.
Xiao Zhan laughed as he cupped his chin lovingly, "You're just biased."
"I'm serious!" Lan Wangji insisted.
"Of course, you are." Xiao Zhan grinned while stroking Lan Wangji's hair tenderly.
Lan Wangji grabbed the front of Xiao Zhan's robes, dragging him close and connecting their lips in a heated kiss. He murmured against Xiao Zhan's lips, "Don't look at other people. Look only at me. Only me."
Xiao Zhan replied as he broke off the kiss, "You said I should use my beautiful eyes properly. It would be an improper use if I only look at you."
"No, you must not look others!" Lan Wangji growled and pulled back slightly to stare at Xiao Zhan's eyes, "Don't touch other people either. I don't like it."
"Hm?" Xiao Zhan raised a brow, "Were you sulking because of that earlier? I was just helping her from falling down."
Lan Wangji scowled, "You should just let her fall."
"You sure let your honest opinion out when you're drunk, huh?" Xiao Zhan shook his head and laughed heartily. "I didn't know that you're this petty, Lan Zhan."
"I am petty because you're mine." With that Lan Wangji flipped them so that Xiao Zhan was laying underneath him, straddling his hips. His voice sounded deeper than usual. His gaze seemed to darken. "I love you so much, Wei Ying."
Xiao Zhan placed his hands on Lan Wangji's lower back, patting him soothingly. He replied lovingly, "I know. And I love you too, Lan Zhan."
"You're mine. You belong to me. No one else can have my Wei Ying." Lan Wangji declared in a firm tone.
"Okay. Okay. I'm yours. Just yours. Happy?" Xiao Zhan laughed lightly as he patted Lan Wangji's head.
"Yes." Lan Wangji pulled him down and began kissing his neck fervently while wrapping his arms around Xiao Zhan possessively.
"You've gotten quite bold now, haven't you?" Xiao Zhan gasped out, trying desperately to hold himself together.
"Only with you." Lan Wangji whispered against his lips as his kisses became hungrier.
"Lan Zhan... Time out ..." Xiao Zhan gasped, attempting to push Lan Wangji off him but his efforts were futile.
Lan Wangji ignored his words and continued making marks all over Xiao Zhan's skin as he kissed every inch of it. Xiao Zhan felt as if he was burning alive and powerless against the passion radiating off of him.
"Stop playing. We have to get up early tomorrow." Xiao Zhan moaned quietly as Lan Wangji's mouth continued its assault upon his sensitive skin.
Lan Wangji paused for a second to rip his headband off his forehead,"...I'm not playing. I want you, Wei Ying."
"Wait...!"
This insatiable beast!
*******
Xiao Zhan woke up the next morning feeling like his body was sore all over.
"You're awake." Lan Wangji's voice made him opened his eyes, "How do you feel?"
"Like I just had an intense battle with a damned beast." Xiao Zhan groaned and sat up only to regret doing so immediately. He fell back on his pillows with a groan of frustration. He whined, "My waist..."
Lan Wangji was sitting next to him rubbing his back gently, looking very concerned and guilty. He asked, "Does it hurt badly?"
"What do you think?" Xiao Zhan replied sarcastically, massaging his lower spine again. He snapped his head to glare at the Second Jade of Gusu and scorned, "Lan Zhan! Are you even human?"
Lan Wangji apologized profusely and held Xiao Zhan's hand, kissing it tenderly, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that. Please forgive me."
Xiao Zhan grumbled, "Where did you even learn all that? And don't you dare to say that you learned it from me."
"Books." Lan Wangji said innocently.
"Books?" Xiao Zhan repeated with a deep scowl on his face.
"Mn."
Xiao Zhan just shook his head in disbelief and said with gritted teeth, "Burn. Those. Books!"
"Alright." Lan Wangji said compliantly.
"And never touch alcohol ever again!"
"Okay."
"I'm serious."
"Yes. I won't touch alcohol ever again." Lan Wangji nodded seriously as he gave Xiao Zhan his most sincere and beautiful smile.
"You are really shameless!"
"We already established that long time ago."
"..." Xiao Zhan shot an annoyed glare at Lan Wangji who still wore that innocent smile on his face. He pushed himself to sit while complaining, "Shit! My back!"
"Can you forgive me, Wei Ying?" Lan Wangji pouted while looking at him with puppy eyes.
Xiao Zhan rolled his eyes, "I'm not falling for that pretty face of yours, Lan Zhan."
Lan Wangji took his hand and placed it on his cheek, "I'm sorry."
This sly little puppy... That is a foul move! Foul but effective! How can I stay mad like this?
Xiao Zhan's brow creased as he looked deeply into Lan Wangji's eyes, seeing nothing but sincerity and love in his bright, innocent gaze. His heart melted at the sight before him, "You're really exploiting my weak heart, aren't you?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji hummed contentedly before pulling Xiao Zhan into his embrace.
Xiao Zhan couldn't help but to lean into his warmth hug. He then realized something, "Did you wash me up and help me change when I was asleep?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji kept his palms on Xiao Zhan's back. "You were in deep sleep, and I wanted to make you comfortable."
Yep. He's a foul by default.
"...Are you healing me right now?" Xiao Zhan asked as he felt the familiar sensation surging into his body, calming him the soreness in him almost immediately.
Lan Wangji just nodded.
This brat really used spiritual energy transfer for this.
Xiao Zhan chuckled, shaking his head, "You are insufferable."
"Mn."
"I'm so going to tell your father about your debauchery behavior later." Xiao Zhan threatened playfully.
"Good. Then we can get married even faster." Lan Wangji proposed casually.
Xiao Zhan shot him an incredulous look before breaking down into chuckles, "Wow. You're not the least bit scared of what will happen when my uncle finds out about this, are you?"
Lan Wangji shrugged, "Why should I be? He already approved of us."
That made Xiao Zhan laughed harder, "You're really impossible!"
When his laughter died down, he uttered softly, "But you know it's not the time for marriage yet, right?"
"Yes. I know." Lan Wangji replied solemnly, his voice carried a hint of disappointment.
"We'll get there when the right time comes, okay?" Xiao Zhan consoled him.
"Mn." Lan Wangji agreed before kissing him softly, "I understand, Wei Ying."
Xiao Zhan sighed fondly. "Don't worry. I will never leave you. Ever."
"Me neither." Lan Wangji answered in a beat.
"Lan Zhan..."
"Yes, Wei Ying?"
"You're not allowed to touch me for a week." Xiao Zhan said sternly.
"But Wei Ying..."
"No buts."
"...really?"
"Yes, really. Now stop being shameless."
"Wei Ying..."
"Lan Zhan, stop talking and just heal me properly."