"Uh, sorry. Wrong room," Xue Yang muttered and hurriedly left the room before they could react, leaving the two of them alone again.
"..." Xiao Zhan turned to stare at the retreating back of the boy who stormed out the door, his cheeks flaming red with embarrassment. This was definitely worse than being caught making out by Lan Xichen! He groaned deeply and buried his face in his hands on his seat.
For heaven's sake, why did we always get caught? Where did my self-control go?
Lan Wangji wondered the same thing he did and could only let out a deep sigh before regaining his composure. He stood up and opened the door for Xue Yang, who was still standing awkwardly outside, his rosy cheeks tinged with the color of blush as he finally realized he wasn't seeing everything. The second jade's voice remained calm as he spoke, "Xue Yang, let's talk inside."
Xue Yang was still too stunned to say anything, so he just nodded his head vigorously and entered the room. But as soon as he saw Xiao Zhan, he forgot his embarrassment and an excited grin that betrayed his dimples blossomed on his face. He immediately rushed over and hugged him, shouting loudly, "Wei-ge! I missed you!"
"Xue Yang! You're crushing me!" Xiao Zhan groaned at the impact, but still allowed the boy to hug him before chuckling at the child's enthusiasm. After a few moments, he finally freed himself from Xue Yang's grip, "Okay, okay. I can't breathe. You're a lot heavier now!"
Lan Wangji helped to extract his lover from the boy, his voice was soft as he addressed the boy in a gentle tone, "How are you, Xue Yang?"
Xue Yang stopped squealing and turned to Lan Wangji, smiled brightly, bowed respectfully to Lan Wangji, and replied cheerily, "I'm fine, Wangji-xiong."
"Hey, why didn't I receive a bow?" Xiao Zhan complained, pretending to look affronted as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.
Xue Yang grinned cheekily at him and innocently replied, "But Wei-ge, I did hug you."
Xiao Zhan pinched his chubby cheeks before answering in mock irritation, "A hug doesn't count."
After further banter between the two, Xiao Zhan finally decided to address the elephant in the room. He cleared his throat before attempting to explain, "Xue Yang, what you saw earlier... You know... Uh... How do I say this..."
Xue Yang wrinkled his nose and his face turned red as he recalled how the two men embracing and kissing each other earlier. The feeling as if he had just caught his parents in their intimate moments returned in him. He looked down at the floor and muttered in embarrassment, "Wei-ge, you do not need to explain. In fact, I am aware of the nature of your relationship."
"You do?" Xiao Zhan asked, his brows knitted close, trying to gauge how much the ten years old know about things like this.
"Of course, I am not a child anymore." Xue Yang puffed indignantly, "I learned a lot of things since I came here, you know. There are plenty of interesting stuffs in this place."
Xiao Zhan raised his brows at his answer, detecting some naughtiness in the statement. He probed, "Okay. Spill it now. Who taught you and what kind of nonsense they had been teaching you?"
Xue Yang blinked rapidly as he realized he might have said something wrong before he shrugged, trying to play it off, "No one and nothing in particular."
Xiao Zhan's eyes narrowed as he noted how the boy looked away guiltily, "So it was the boys, huh?"
"No, no," Xue Yang hastily denied, "Nothing like that."
"Really? But you knew exactly who I meant, did not you?" Xiao Zhan asked, giving Xue Yang a suspicious look.
Xue Yang rubbed the back of his neck. "I... uh... maybe?"
"Hmm... Let me guess. I know Jiang Cheng would not do this." Xiao Zhan narrowed his eyes further. "So, Sixth Shidi and his little gang?"
Xue Yang averted his gaze and zipped his lips at the mention. With that, Xiao Zhan knew the answer without even having to ask. He took a deep breath and rubbed his temples, "What else had you learned?"
"...Nothing!" Xue Yang insisted in a panic. "The seniors only taught me good and fun stuffs..."
"Aha, what kind of stuffs?" Xiao Zhan probed. "Do tell."
"Uh... Well... Things that you used to do?" Xue Yang rubbed his neck sheepishly.
Xiao Zhan exhaled wearily, "...did you go around vandalizing the walls, flirting with girls, stealing lotus seeds and jujubes or maybe even chickens with other boys? Did you?"
Xue Yang pouted, "...Maybe once or twice."
Lan Wangji's ears perked up at the mention of 'flirting with girls' and his head instantly snapped towards his lover, he didn't bother to hide his frown as well. However, he quickly forced his face back into neutral expression after Xiao Zhan mouthed in his defense, "Not me."
Xiao Zhan then turned to the boy again, giving him an unimpressed glare, "...Did you get into any fights?"
"No. Never." The boy shook his head as he replied honestly. The others were not brave enough to let the precious kid to get into too much of troubles that might get reported to their head disciple. They were scared to be on his bad side after all.
Xiao Zhan stared at Xue Yang for a few seconds more before he finally gave up on trying to question the brat. As long as Xue Yang did not commit any crimes apart from those petty mischiefs, he didn't think much would come from this whole conversation.
"Listen, Xue Yang. I know you're having fun and all but do not get into too much of trouble, okay?" Xiao Zhan said in serious tone. He never wanted to restrict the kid from enjoying the freedom and opportunity in this place. However, as an older brother and head disciple, he had to ensure Xue Yang did not do too much stupid and rash things albeit he too was reckless at times himself. He squeezed the boy's shoulder gently as he spoke in strict manner, "If you do something out of line, I will bring you to Gusu. Are you following me?"
Lan Wangji's brows furrowed slightly at the mention, his mind was telling him that it is a bad idea. It would mean that Xiao Zhan's attention would be divided between Xue Yang and himself and he wanted to have his lover solely to him as much as possible. He chose to act and said, " Wei Ying, let it go. Xue Yang knows how to behave."
"Wangji-xiong is right. I do know how to behave." Xue Yang gave Lan Wangji a determined look before smiling sweetly at both of them, "I promise I'll stay out of trouble."
The boy seemed to dislike the idea of staying Gusu too as he heard the existence of three thousands plus rules. He could not possibly survive in that kind of environment.
"Good." Lan Wangji nodded in approval, feeling relieved inwardly.
Xiao Zhan narrowed his eyes at his lover as he stated firmly, "You're going to spoil the kid, Lan Zhan."
"He isn't being spoiled," Lan Wangji rebutted.
"You're not usually lenient even with the smallest misdemeanors." Xiao Zhan pointed out as he continued to stare at his lover. "Why are you suddenly so indulgent now?"
The corner of Wangji's lips twitched when he heard the suspicion in Xiao Zhan's voice, he admitted quietly, "I got used to indulging you."
Xiao Zhan paused at those words, before coughing slightly to stop himself from grinning. He stared into the golden orbs, "That's... well, that's not the point, Lan Zhan. You are supposed to be strict one. Don't spoil the kid."
"He is allowed to enjoy what is within his reach." Lan Wangji pointed out calmly. "Besides, Xue Yang is happy here."
Xue Yang watched the bickering between his 'parents' with amusement, his heart filled with joy at how the couple argued back and forth over him. It was obvious that both were very passionate about each other and were very protective of him. That warmed his heart and made him feel loved and cared for. He then stepped in between the pair, tugging on both their sleeves and causing the two to stop their squabbling. His eyes shone brightly, and his smile was dazzling as he exclaimed delightfully, "Yes, I am happy! And I am so glad to have you guys watching over me!"
The duo's expressions softening with every passing moment. It was clear to see that they cared for the young cultivator deeply.
"Fine, I will let this go once." Xiao Zhan smiled tenderly as he reached over and ruffled Xue Yang's hair playfully, "You're lucky that you're a cute brat."
Xue Yang stuck his tongue out at him, trying to hide how pleased he actually was by the affectionate gestures. His smile widened, "I know I am."
Xiao Zhan rolled his eyes fondly at the boy's brazen answer. He then asked curiously, "Xue Yang, do you know where Jiang Cheng might be now?"
Xue Yang hummed to himself for a moment in thought, "Why do you ask?"
A sly smirk crept onto Xiao Zhan's face, and he replied in a low voice. "I just thought that it will be fun seeing his reaction upon seeing the both of us."
Xiao Zhan's eyes were practically glowing as excitement flashed in his eyes. He smirked, "Heh. Of course, I know where he is."
Lan Wangji shook his head slightly at his lover. The man just lectured the young kid on not causing trouble and now he was inciting some himself. He did not say anything to stop the other two though.
Before long, the three of them stood in front of Jiang Cheng's doors. Xue Yang knocked on the door loudly, disrupting Jiang Cheng who was in the midst of meditating in his room, "Jiang Wanyin! Jiang Wanyin!"
Jiang Cheng opened his eyes and jumped at the loud knock, nearly falling out of his bed from surprise. He yelled angrily from inside, "What do you want?"
"Come out. I got a surprise for you," Xue Yang said cheekily.
The was silence on the other end of the door before Jiang Cheng's voice reverberated once more, "It better be good, or I will kick your sorry ass!"
Shortly after, the sound of footsteps approached the door. As the door swung open, Jiang Cheng almost had a heart attack when he opened the door and saw the Yin and Yang couple standing in front of the door with the accompaniment of their devil child. He cursed loudly and jumped backward, spluttering in shock "What the fuck?! "
"Hi to you too, Jiang Cheng." Xiao Zhan smirked teasingly; his arms were folded on his chest while his partner's golden gaze almost piercing Jiang Cheng's soul. He asked in laid back manner, "Did you really mean to kick a child's ass?"
Jiang Cheng looked like a bull ready to charge at anyone at this point. He growled, "I don't see why not."
Xiao Zhan gasped dramatically, "Jiang Cheng, are you sure? Do you want to die by my hands today? Because you see, I don't have mercy for child abuser."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes, he shifted uncomfortably, trying not to feel intimidated by the man. He muttered under his breath, "I'm not afraid of you, you know."
Xiao Zhan laughed lightly as he shook his head, "Oh, really? You grew some balls since the last time I saw you, I see. Shall we test your courage then? Wanna spar?"
"I have no time to spar with you. I have many things to attend to soon." Jiang Cheng evaded. Xiao Zhan's laughter sounds a little manic in his ears. He quirked an eyebrow as he asked, "Are you worried that I might bully this brat here?"
"Should I be worried?" Xiao Zhan teased him with a small smirk playing on his face.
Jiang Cheng glared at him and replied, "No!"
"Good. If you're bullying my little brother, I will personally beat the crap out of you." Xiao Zhan declared without missing a beat. He added after glancing at his partner beside him, "Lan Zhan will surely do the same, no doubt."
"Mn." Lan Wangji nodded in support.
"Do you think I am that stupid? How could I possibly bully this idiot. He got everyone's wrapped around his fingers." Jiang Cheng sneered.
"That's right, Wei-ge. I'm not that easy to bully." Xue Yang interjected with pride. "And everyone loves me."
Jiang Cheng shot him a dark glare, "You are truly pushing it, you little shit. Do you have a death wish?"
Xue Yang stuck his tongue out at him, "Well, do you?"
"I'm still your senior, remember?" Jiang Cheng growled angrily at him. "Stop being disrespectful. "
"But you're also acting rudely towards Wei-ge." Xue Yang pointed out, "He's older than you and he's the head disciple. I don't see you being respectful as well."
Jiang Cheng opened his mouth to retort. He quickly closed his mouth when he realized that he had no rebuttal to give. He rubbed the bridge of his nose and let out a frustrated groan instead.
Lan Wangji hummed in agreement to what the kid had just said which caused both Xiao Zhan and Xue Yang to erupt in a fit of laughter.
Jiang Cheng looked unimpressed as he tapped his foot on the ground impatiently while commenting sarcastically, "Good! Good! Now we have two lunatics running around in this clan!"
"Your choice of adjectives is abysmal," Xiao Zhan commented sarcastically with a raised eyebrow. "You should expand your vocabulary."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes and said in a bored tone, "Whatever."
"Oh, come on, Jiang Cheng. Don't be so uptight. You haven't seen me for almost two months already." Teased Xiao Zhan.
"I haven't noticed. I'm busy taking care of your little evil spawn here!" Jiang Cheng said bluntly, looking sternly at Xue Yang.
Xue Yang innocently raised his shoulders and his eyes sparkling in mischief as he said, "What did I ever do?"
Jiang Cheng gritted his teeth and gave the child in front of him a stern look, "Don't sass me, you brat! You know what you've done. You're just like your brother here. You always say and do stupid shit, leaving trails of destruction wherever you go."
Xue Yang grinned at Jiang Cheng's remark, "Oh, thank you for the compliments. I'm glad to hear that I'm similar to Wei-ge."
"What is there to be glad about this?! Do you think that it's a glorious thing to have a reputation of a menace?" Jiang Cheng barked as gave him a nasty look and turned to Xiao Zhan with an annoyed expression. "Wei Wuxian! You have no idea of all the shenanigans he had gotten into! This brat is as troublesome as you in the past and he talked back all the time! Are you really not going to reprimand him or something?"
"There, there," Xiao Zhan patted him consolingly on the shoulder, giving him a sympathetic look. "He is just a curious kid. Give him a break alright?"
"I'm the one who needs a break!" Jiang Cheng responded with a tired expression on his face, crossing his arms huffingly. "Do you know how many apologies I had to give to town people this week alone?"
"You know it was not his fault alone? The other boys were the one who taught him all those things. Besides, didn't you do all those stupid things in the past too? I remembered that you enjoyed such activities too." Xiao Zhan spoke in Xue Yang's defense. "Also, you are training to be the Sect Leader. It's kind of your responsibility to control the boys as well."
Jiang Cheng clenched his jaw as he expressed his dissatisfaction, "You don't know how much I want to sew your lips together."
Xiao Zhan sighed deeply as he watched Jiang Cheng's face soured further. He then said earnestly, "Look, let's not argue. I am sorry for his behalf, and I am truly grateful for your hard work, Jiang Cheng. So, thank you."
He then turned to Xue Yang, " Xue Yang, just say sorry and we can move on."
"Sorry." Xue Yang uttered compliantly with not much sincerity in it.
Xiao Zhan looked back at Jiang Cheng, "There. He apologized. He won't do it again. Are we good now?"
"Hmph." Jiang Cheng huffed, "Good my ass."
"Don't be such a sour puss." Xiao Zhan shook his head slightly. He then offered, "How about I cook for you as peace offering?"
"Sure, whatever." Jiang Cheng replied with a shrug. He then took a second glance at Xiao Zhan before saying, "You'll cook anything I want? Anything?"
"Yeah, just tell me what for you feel like eating." Xiao Zhan promised readily.
"Then..." Jiang Cheng continued with a bunch of food request without further delay, making Xiao Zhan laugh loudly.
"Me too, me too. I have a request." Xue Yang chimed in, grinning happily.
Jiang Cheng turned to him and glared threateningly at the young boy., "Shut it. It's my turn now. I am taking this as compensation for all those dumb things you pulled off. "
"You should be thankful for me then. If I didn't do all those things, you wouldn't get to right to request dishes from Wei-ge." Xue Yang protested, grinning cheekily.
Xiao Zhan shook his head as he watched the childish arguments going on between the two before interrupting them. He ordered firmly, "Xue Yang, get on your way to morning training."
"But..." Xue Yang pouted childishly.
"Don't worry. I'll make something sweet for you later." Xiao Zhan promised. The boy did deserve some desert after witnessing their ill-suited acts earlier.
"Yay! Okay!" Xue Yang obediently replied before turning and giving Lan Wangji a courtesy bow, "See you later, Wangji-xiong."
"Mn." Lan Wangji replied curtly, returning the gesture with a slight nod of his head. Then, with joyful bouncing steps, the boy walked toward the training ground.
Jiang Cheng grunted, before speaking again, "Anyway, what brings you two here today?"
Xiao Zhan tilted his head slightly to the side and said playfully, "Oh, nothing much. I thought you said to come back often. So, here I am."
"When did I say that?" Jiang Cheng denied hastily.
Xiao Zhan turned to the best evidence provider beside him, "Lan Zhan, did he or did he not say those words?"
"He did." Lan Wangji affirmed, rendering Jiang Cheng speechless for a few seconds.
Xiao Zhan wiggled his brows triumphantly, ignoring the look of sheer disgust on his martial brother was giving him. "So, are you leading our juniors well in my absence?"
"Of course! I am not that unreliable!" Jiang Cheng scowled.
"Sure, sure," Xiao Zhan chuckled. "You're the future Sect Leader after all. Of course, you wouldn't slack off. Just making sure you don't."
"I won't, okay?" Jiang Cheng retorted sharply. He then suddenly remembered to ask, "How the hell did you two get here anyway? I am sure you were not here an hour ago and even if you flew here, it takes at least half a day a top speed."
"Transportation talismans." Xiao Zhan answered nonchalantly.
"The barrier should not allow..." Jiang Cheng trailed off as he realized that the array expert for the barrier was none other than the smug looking person in front of him. His eyes turned skywards before he crossed his arms in front of his chest, mumbling, "Never mind."
"Alright, then. We have business to attend now." Xiao Zhan announced before turning to face his lover, "Shall we go now?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji nodded; his eyes were fixated solely on his beloved.
Jiang Cheng snorted and turned his eyes away his arms crossed, muttering, "Urgh, please. Can you two not do this in front of me?"
Xiao Zhan laughed quietly at his martial brother's words, "Do what?"
"Whatever it is that you two are doing right now," Jiang Cheng replied exasperatedly. He rubbed the bridge of his nose, trying to stave off his growing migraine.
"What? We are just standing still though?" Xiao Zhan replied plainly, he couldn't help to annoy the shit out of Jiang Cheng.
"Yeah, right." Jiang Cheng scoffed; his eyes made some acrobatic moves again before he started to take his steps towards the training field. "Suit yourselves. Get a room while you are at it. I got training to lead and I have absolutely no time nor interest to watch your indecency."
"You have to get your head out of the gutter, Jiang Cheng." Xiao Zhan yelled towards Jiang Cheng's direction.
"Keep telling yourself that too, you hypocrite!" Jiang Cheng shouted back.
Xiao Zhan's laughter echoed throughout the corridors. The duo went on and surprised a lot more people as they walked pass the hallways leisurely. Jiang Fengmian was caught off guard when he saw the two walking into the main hall together in relaxed manner while Jiang Yanli dropped a basket full of fresh harvest upon seeing them. They froze for a hot second before they were convinced the duo was really there after seeing how they bent down to pick up the fallen fruits.
"Uh, surprise?" Xiao Zhan smiled innocently as they approached the father and daughter.
Jiang Fengmian broke into a smile when he heard his familiar voice, he told the both of them warmly, "Welcome home."
Lan Wangji bowed his head in respect, feeling welcomed by the Jiang family's hospitality as always. The four of them took a seat around the table together and talked among themselves.
"Did you just say Transportation Talisman, a-Ying?" Jiang Fengmian questioned fascinatingly.
Xiao Zhan only flashed her his signature smile before nodding.
"And you created this yourself?" the Sect Leader inquired.
Xiao Zhan gave him a bright grin as he nodded again, "Yes."
Jiang Fengmian couldn't help but stare at the brilliant smile of his nephew with pride and astonishment. This youth had grown so much in the last one year that he could no longer estimate how vast the cultivation base that the teen possessed. "You are truly sticking to our Sect's motto to attempt the impossible."
"True." Lan Wangji agreed with that statement wholeheartedly.
"Well, being normal is boring. Don't you agree? " Xiao Zhan said nonchalantly.
"Mn." Lan Wangji agreed again. He could confirmed that his life was no longer mundane and dull since Xiao Zhan came into his life. His lover was the only normally abnormal being that he let into his life and his very heart.
Jiang Yanli didn't really know how big of a feat that her martial brother had managed to achieve; nonetheless she was still very proud of him. She heard all of his remarkable achievements and she had no doubt that the young man was indeed special.
"Is that why you become a part of Nie household? Were you bored of our clan?" Jiang Yanli started, her tone remained light but full with jest, "Should I start calling you Third Young Master Nie now?"
Xiao Zhan shook his head immediately, "Of course not, Shijie! Even if I am part of Nie clan now, that doesn't erase my root here in Yunmeng Jiang."
Jiang Yanli laughed lightly as she continued on teasing him, "And you'll be part of Lan clan as well. Isn't that the reason why you are staying in Gusu?"
"Shijie... can you not?" Xiao Zhan whined dramatically before he buried his face into his hands.
"Can I not what? Is it not the truth, a-Xian?" Jiang Yanli's smile stretched ears to ears. "Are you going to marry before me?"
Lan Wangji interjected, "Wei Ying said, it is still too early for marriage."
"Lan Zhan! Do you have to tell everyone that?" Xiao Zhan exclaimed as he looked up from under his hand to shoot daggers towards Lan Wangji who continued to remain unperturbed. He complained, "What are you? A reporter?"
"Define reporter." Lan Wangji replied curtly. The corners of his lips turned upwards ever so slightly, and his eyes twinkled a little.
"Ah, why are you doing this now?" Xiao Zhan huffed out in defeat, slumping back down on the table. He mumbled under his breath as his forehead crumpled into a frown, "...you're impossible!"
"Hmm... Is Xianxian three years old?" Jiang Yanli giggled lightly while looking at the man who was sulking like a child. She then looked at Lan Wangji to say, "My apologies, Young Master Lan, it seems like my innocent little brother still a toddler. You have to wait for him to grow up a little more before you can make him part of your clan."
Lan Wangji blushed slightly, averting his gaze to hide the tint spreading across his cheeks, and muttered something about Wei Ying being 'not that small nor innocent' quietly. It earned him an eye roll and an amused snort from Xiao Zhan. The latter said, "You're not that innocent either, Lan Zhan!"
Or small...
"I can vouch on that. Neither of these two are innocent." Jiang Fengmian joined in the teasing game. The pair turned red as tomato as his uncle recounted what he saw in Qinghe.
Jiang Yanli raised her brows curiously as the pair avoided eye contact. She was an avid fan of romance novels, so she definitely wasn't going to miss this opportunity have her fill of fun. In fact, she was clearly enjoying herself immensely as her soft giggles turned into a full-blown laughter. She poked at Xiao Zhan's sides to get an answer that she obviously already knew, only to receive an indignant squawk in response. Her sort of inappropriate questions flowed like the waterfall back in Gusu and that resulted with both men flinching away in shame.
She is worse than Lan Xichen!
Jiang Fengmian was not helping matters by laughing along loudly as if it was some sort of inside joke. Both teenagers glared at the laughing Sect Leader, their scowls deepening as they realized their efforts were futile. There was nothing they could do to prevent the two Jiangs from having a merry time at their expense. Thus, they had to endure the tortures of their lives, but thankfully the suffering didn't last long as they managed to stir back the direction of conversation to the pressing matter that needed to be taken care of. With that, they moved to a formal meeting with the rest of the elders on the situation regarding the Wen sect as well as their final preparations since they only had a couple of weeks left until the D-day.
The day went by quickly and by the time they finished, the sunset was almost slowly descending and with each passing minute and each breath, the light became dimmer. It was a stark contrast to the lively and busy environment as the couple was now surrounded by the disciples who just finished their trainings for the day. Their loud cheers almost blew the duo's eardrum; the juniors were absolutely over the moon when they learned that Xiao Zhan would take the liberty to cook for them tonight. The couple simply shook their heads helplessly at the excitement. It was no secret that the younger generation of the Yunmeng Jiang was a different kind of breed compared to the ones in Gusu Lan Sects.
"All hail our mighty and handsome Da-shixiong!" The youngsters yelled joyously. Xiao Zhan merely waved them off as he continued to yell for his name alternate with Lan Wangji's enthusiastically.
"Hey! You idiots are too noisy! Quiet your voices down!" Jiang Cheng yelled. At once, silence enveloped the area, followed by the sound of thunderous laughter. He shot them a dark glare, knowing that he wasn't getting through to the kids.
"Boys, listen to Jiang Cheng. You guys really should try not to cause such a ruckus if you want to eat dinner." Xiao Zhan gave his order sternly and soon enough, the young ones complied, though some of them were still grinning happily. He then dismissed the sweaty boys, "Go clean up. You guys really stink!"
A chorus of agreement filled the air and the disciples dispersed eagerly. Xiao Zhan shook his head the boisterous exit of Yunmeng Jiang disciples before making their way towards the kitchen.
"Oh... I forgot to mention it to you." Xiao Zhan said as he glanced sideways at Lan Wangji who handled the knife as proficient as he wielded his sword now. He told him casually, "I had received permission from your father to stay here for a couple of nights."
"Hm?" Lan Wangji glanced back at Xiao Zhan questioningly, "You planned this ahead?"
Xiao Zhan smirked, "Naturally."
Lan Wangji asked in suspicion, "What exactly have you planned for us to do for the next few days?"
Xiao Zhan just shrugged and responded, "You'll know soon. Let's finish this first."
"Okay." Lan Wangji agreed and turned back to his task of chopping some greens.
Xiao Zhan worked his culinary magic, and the dinner was ready shortly. Joyful atmosphere at the dining hall was palpable and everyone seemed to be extra happy chomping on food.
Xue Yang took his seat in front of the pair and as usual, his chattering seemed endless, and his sentences rushed one another. The pair were used to his hyperactive nature by now and he seemed absolutely happy and content with his current life.
"Wow! Wei-ge, you're really good at explaining. You're so cool. I want to learn all the ins and outs of arrays and talismans too!" Xue Yang declared. His bright eyes twinkled with interest as he listened attentively to Xiao Zhan's explanations about the talismans that he just used to transport both of them to where they are currently. He kept moving around everywhere like there wasn't enough of him to fill it, constantly exclaiming his excitement and asking questions.
Xiao Zhan laughed softly, "If you'd like to learn all that, then you must first learn how to control your spiritual energy properly. Your Wangji-xiong is the best in this field!"
At this statement, Xue Yang's gaze wandered to Lan Wangji. He beamed at the Second Jade and said cheerfully, "Wangji-xiong is awesome too!"
Lan Wangji couldn't suppress the warmth that blossomed in his chest at these words. He smiled gently and reached out to pat the boy's head. "I'll teach you tomorrow."
"Just eat, you noisy brat!" Jiang Cheng with annoyance. He couldn't focus on relishing in those dishes he requested earlier when the boy talked incessantly without any sign of stopping. That remark only resulted in more noise and havoc as the boy did not back down from the battle of words.
Xiao Zhan however managed to shut him up when he brought out the promised deserts before the kid whose squeals of delight could rival a dolphin. It was just simple pudding, but the boy's happiness made it seemed like he reached the Seventh Heaven.
After spending a good while to catch up with everyone, Xiao Zhan eventually dragged Lan Wangji outside to escape the chaotic atmosphere where they enjoyed the cooling evening breeze as they strolled along the lake shores. A quiet and solemn mood permeates the air around them as they walked down the pathway. The air was quite chilly because of the darkening sky which was accompanied by several twinkling stars. With no one else around the vicinity, they finally stopped under a tree and Xiao Zhan's smiles grew wider as he recalled the events that transpired a year back at the location that they were currently at.
"Wei Ying, what is the plan?" Lan Wangji broke the silence first as he placed his hands on his lover's waist. His curiosity reached its peak and he needed to know.
"Ah, I am surprised that you still haven't figure it out." Xiao Zhan said as his lips bloomed into a sweet smile while he gazed lovingly at his lover, "Well, don't you think that we should celebrate our first year together where it started, Lan Zhan?
"Oh..." Lan Wangji couldn't help the smile that crept across his lips as realization dawned unto him. He bent down slightly to place a kiss on Xiao Zhan's forehead, pulling the smaller male even closer into his arms and promised, "I will cherish you for eternity."
"Eternity sounds perfect." Xiao Zhan hummed contentedly as Lan Wangji embraced him.
"I love you, Wei Ying. More than anything else in the world," the second Jade whispered tenderly.
Xiao Zhan smiled fondly and nuzzled into Lan Wangji's touch, "Me too, Lan Zhan. Me too."
With those heartfelt words, Lan Wangji leaned forward to re-enact their very first kiss and the world faded away. All that existed was the two of them. They loved each other so deeply. They knew deep down within themselves that their love for one another was unconditional and unbreakable. Nothing could ever change that. No matter what happened in the future, they would never leave each other's sides again. Their heart beats in unison as they held each other close, witnessed by the glowing moon. At one point, kissing was no longer enough for the two and soon after, they found themselves in Xiao Zhan's room fumbling in between the sheets.
Self-control is overrated.
Afterwards, they soaked in the bathtub that was filled with hot water, luxuriating in the warmth of it while holding each other. They spent time talking with each other, reminiscing memories from the past that they shared and treasured deeply. Fatigue eventually caught up to Xiao Zhan and he fell asleep in the tub, his head rested comfortably at Lan Wangji's bare chest. Lan Wangji smiled at the sight, and he gently picked the sleeping figure, carrying him to the bed with such care and tenderness. After making his lover comfortable, Lan Wangji stared at the peaceful looking face as he recalled the words that the man had uttered exactly one year ago in his sleep.
"It can't be anyone but you too, Wei Ying." He murmured as he placed a lingering kiss onto the smooth forehead of his soulmate. He couldn't believe that it had been one year since they admitted their feelings to each other and became a couple since then.
Xiao Zhan instinctively snuggled in closer into the warmth of Lan Wangji's broad chest, humming softly in content.
The next day, the couple woke up later than they usually would. When they finally emerged from the room after spending a little more tender moments together, they went directly towards the training ground to assess the progress that the disciples made so far.
Xiao Zhan could see that Xue Yang had improved significantly since the last time he saw him with the sword. He was also extremely observant and perceptive, which made the two of them proud of him. In a way, he looked like a miniature version of Xiao Zhan, and his personality reflected their similarities very well. Jiang Cheng did a good job in leading the juniors in practicing the sword forms as well.
Satisfied with what he saw, the couple then headed to the array formation space, where the translucent barrier around the lotus pier was activated. Just like firewalls, the multidimensional barriers were like invisible gated borders or gateways that sealed all entrances and exits within the arrays, made specifically for the sect members' protection from intruders and any possible threats. This upgrade was an important matter for the safety of the entire sect since they needed to be prepared for any sorts of backlash from Wen clan after the conference. Honestly Xiao Zhan was still anxious about it; afraid of any unforeseen consequences that may befall these people that he had come to care deeply about. The nightmares he had about the horrific massacre involving the whole sect was not helping him ease his fears either. Hence why he wanted to make certain every single aspect was functioning properly, ensuring that there wouldn't be any errors that could potentially occur.
While the older men stood to the side and watched the two of them working to install the latest updates to stabilize the shields further. The Yin and Yang duo seemed to instinctively know how each other moved and moved seamlessly together like two parts of a whole. It was not their first time seeing such an impressive sight but the two still captivated their attentions with their harmonization. Lan Wangji had fully familiarized himself with Xiao Zhan's standard protocols and glyphs that he used in the runic letterings in his complex build of formations, he could inscribe those wording of spells in perfect imitation which inherently making Xiao Zhan's job much easier. Once they were done, the updated version of protective barrier stood tall and strong like a silent and powerful sentinel, guarding the occupants of Lotus Pier while almost blending perfectly with the background and shimmering lightly with an almost ethereal radiance. With the new barrier, the entrance to the premise was highly restricted to those who already had clearance from the elder members; no outsiders could step past the threshold without having been approved by senior cultivators.
"All the wards are ready, Uncle Jiang." Xiao Zhan remarked as he looked at his uncle, "The most important thing now is to keep the system powered up and running all the time. I let the assignment of personnel to you, uncle."
"You worked hard, A-Ying. Don't worry about the rest, I will handle it." Jiang Fengmian nodded in assent proceeded to inspect everything closely as Xiao Zhan elaborated about the various modifications that they just implemented. The last barrier system was already strong but this recent one was on another level of secureness, and he could feel how serious and dedicated the youth in safeguarding everyone. There was a slight smile tugging at the corners of his lips at the realization. His nephew truly had grown up and become a strong young man, one capable and powerful, worthy of respect from others.
The night fell upon Lotus Pier and soon the moon had risen high in the sky. After another night of catching up with everyone during dinner, the pair excused themselves before nine; not that they were adhering to Gusu Lan sleeping schedule though. They couldn't waste their precious time alone like that. Nobody batted an eye anymore as the couple retired in the same room because they were all overly supportive bunch. Except Jiang Cheng, of course. He still rolled his eyes when he saw the two shamelessly holding hands, fingers intertwining as they walked side by side. The Jiang Sect members still teased the young couple the morning after though because it was a fun thing to do.
When it was time to return to Cloud Recesses, Xiao Zhan let Lan Wangji to be the one who would activate the Transportation talisman. They were surrounded by Jiang Sect members who was fascinated by the head disciple's creation skills. There was an excited buzz in the air and everyone's eyes lit up with wonder and admiration for the man and they wanted to witness the act for themselves since Transportation Talisman was a rare item that one could possess, hence if it was sold, it would be exorbitantly expensive too.
"A-Ying." Jiang Fengmian called for the teenager in question who turned around only to catch something thrown his way. An intricate design of lotus flowers and lotuses was engraved upon the object. Xiao Zhan frowned when he realized that it was the same 'gift' that he received before.
"Uncle Jiang!" Xiao Zhan exclaimed in protest. "This!...this seriously isn't appropriate!"
Jiang Fengmian chuckled softly and replied, "It may not be appropriate to me, but it is definitely appropriate to my nephew."
Lan Wangji raised an eyebrow as he took a glance and immediately recognized the design. His ears turned red at the implication of the item in his beloved's hand.
Xiao Zhan was still visibly uncomfortable about receiving such an embarrassing gift from his uncle but there was nothing he could do since he would have to admit defeat and accept the gift. He sighed softly while he tucked it carefully inside his spatial pocket that he had sewn on his sleeve.
"Alright, alright. You two better go now." Jiang Fengmian said as he waved his hand dismissively. "Remember to take care of yourselves."
Xiao Zhan watched as the group disappeared from his sight. He sighed and shook his head with a fond smile on his face, "So embarrassing..."
The pair could hear the loud cackling laughter of the Sect Leader and his daughter together with the disciples before they disappeared in a burst of blue sparks as soon as the talisman paper hit the ground.
The air around them began to shimmer and fade until nothing remained. In no time at all, they had arrived in Jingshi. Thankfully, the side effect of teleporting was not as bad as Xiao Zhan feared it might be this time around. But it was still annoying, nonetheless. He took a breather for a few minutes to calm the nasty aftermath that made him want to vomit his lunch out. When he finally regained his equilibrium a few minutes later, he analyzed the energy consumption for the particular activation from a perfect sample of human calibrator.
"Wow, your spiritual energy went down by sixty five percent. This talisman really sucks the energy out of people," Xiao Zhan commented as he eyed his partner critically while assessing the amount of spiritual energy that had been lost in a flash just by teleportation. "How do you feel?"
"I'm okay." Lan Wangji replied indifferently.
"Really?" Xiao Zhan's brows knitted close together as he rubbed his chin in thoughts, thinking about why he was affected badly by the spatial travel while Lan Wangji was looking as fine as ever. He knew it wasn't due to rapid depletion since he didn't spend any on this tele-transportation. Was it just motion sickness? But he did a lot of acrobatic acts while sparring and never once he felt like this. His mind wandered a little before shaking it off as he did not want to worsen the growing headache behind his temples.
"Are you alright, Wei Ying?" Lan Wangji asked in concerned as he noticed the discomfort that appeared on his beloved's face.
"Yeah. I'm fine." Xiao Zhan shrugged and smiled reassuringly.