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Wen Chao’s arrogant tone filled the outside air, making it difficult for Lan Wangji to focus on anything besides that voice. His insistence for everyone to memorize the Quintessence of the Wens was more grating on everyone's nerves than the actual memorization itself.
Lan Wangji was standing upright, silently seething as he flashed his eyes up towards Wen Chao, who currently was sitting on his self-imposed throne. Lan Wangji continued glowering at the other man with a slowly boiling feeling of rage; Lan Wangji was becoming accustomed to that particular feeling whenever he laid eyes on either that man or his brother, Wen Xu.
Lan Wangji kept his chin upright, refusing to recite along with the others, no matter how halfheartedly they drowled out the Wen manuscript.
The limp on his broken leg was growing more agonizing the longer he stood, and it didn't help that Wei Yi- Wei Wuxian, had been staring at him with a look of concern whenever he caught his eye. Lan Wangji swallowed thickly but refused to look back at him; it felt impossible to come feel detached when Wei Y- when Wei Wuxian was looking at him like that. Like he wanted to help, like he cared.
Lan Wangji didn’t doubt Wei Ying wanted to help; but he couldn’t risk Wei – Lan Wangji sighed, swiftly giving up on his indifferent act – Wei Ying drawing any more attention. It was only that morning that Wei Ying had been half dragged by Wen soldiers, fresh bruises and blood staining his robes. Lan Wangji refused to cause Wen Chao’s eye to land on Wei Ying anymore.
The recitation continued, and still, Lan Wangji stood still, refusing to give Wen Chao any satisfaction by stumbling or grimacing in pain. He knew they had several more hours to go, and he promised himself to stay upright the rest of the indoctrination. Lan Wangji spared a peek towards Wei Ying, seeing that he looked back at where Nie Huaisang had stood before he abruptly passed out. And they were all supposed to go on a night hunt to Mount Muxi after this? Ridiculous.
Finally, hours later, they were excused, ‘free’ to go back to their assigned rooms, except –
“Wei Wuxian! Lan Wangji!”
Lan Wangji raised an uninterested eyebrow towards Wen Chao. A hurrued look at Wei Ying proved they both were sharing a matching look of disgust.
“Bring them with me.” Wen Chao jerked his head to four of his red-clad guards and Wei Ying and Lan Wangji were led up the stairs, Wei Yong shoving off the guards and walking up the steps himself.
“Wen Chao!” Jiang Wanyin shouted, started forward before he was pushed back by a guard. “Where are you taking them?” He demanded. "What are you planning on doing?"
“Just talking with two insolent students, now stay back or you will join them,” Wen, Chao answered, sending an impatient scowl towards the Jiang heir.
Jiang Wanyin looked ready to push for just that, when Wei Ying waved a hand to his shidi.
“Ah don’t worry, Jiang Cheng! We’ll be back soon, save me some of the dinner!” Wei Ying grinned, turning back to follow the path.
Jiang Wanyin was not easily fooled, and stayed staring at them as they walked; Lan Wangji shot him a determined look – he would do what he could to protect Wei Ying. Jiang Wanyin's frown deepened but, to his credit, did step back, looking at Wei Ying.
They were lead to a room Lan Wangji had never seen before. It was full of desks with piles of papers and different colored potions. It seemed like it was once an office of some sort, before being ruined with the disarray.
Lan Wangji didn’t dare risk getting a closer look at the items on the desk. Unwillingly but knowing he must, Lan Wangji looked back at Wen Chao. The other man was staring at Wei Ying, tiling his head to the side as he eyed him with a suspicious look.
Wei Ying glared right back at the other, a smirk growing on his lips. With Wen Chao’s arrogant face directed towards Wei Ying, Lan Wangji was able to examine Wei Ying; the first time he was able to all day.
Wei Ying was in the same dark robes from yesterday, yet they were ripped up and torn in random areas. When he looked closer, Lan Wangji noted with disgust that there were some sort of bite marks and tears on Wei Ying’s clothing. When he looked closer, he caught sight of what seemed to be fresh blood on his stomach, caused from possible bite wounds on his midriff.
Lan Wangji dug his nails into his palms. What happened exactly? How did Wei Ying get hurt? Did Wem Chao sic dogs or some sort of creature on Wei Ying last night? When Lan Wangji got Bìchén back, he was going to personally grab Wen Chao and slice him from his gut to his –
“Well,” Wen Chao said gleefully, drawing Lan Wangji out of his dark thoughts. Wen Chao slapped his hands together, eyeing both Wei Ying and Lan Wangji with a zealous look. “Let's not play stupid, though I'm sure that will be hard. I know you two have been conspiring against me. I also know that you both are also looking for the Yin Iron.”
Lan Wangji said nothing, keeping a blamk expression. Wen Chao continued when neither Wei Ying or Lan Wangji reacted. “I have been thinking for a while now, on how to get you two to tell me where the last Yin Iron is. I know one or both of you must know."
Lan Wangji refused to respond, fighting the urge to look over at Wei Ying, least Wen Chao caught his gaze. Wei Ying didn’t know where the Yin Iron was; he most likely knew as much as Lan Wangji did about its location. Lan Wangji pursed his lips tightly, letting Wen Chao bluster through his little speech.
Wen Chao scoffed at their silence, turning his back to them as he walked towards one of the messy desk. Lan Wangji took the opportunity to glance at Wei Ying again, who was staring down at Lan Wangji’s broken leg with an enraged look. Lan Wangji blinked before looking back at Wen Chao, oddly touched at the furious expression on his behalf.
“But I knew neither of you would say anything, even under torture," Wen Chao, unfortunately, continued. Lan Wangji saw that now the other was holding something in his hand. “So, I went going over my father’s things, looking for something to confirm my suspicions- and I found this.”
He held out a vial, picked from the desk. It was unfamiliar, but Lan Wangji kept his confusion from showing on his face. “This was before my time of course, perhaps either of you would remember - ”
“We’re all nearly the same age - ” Wei Ying said, raising an unamused eyebrow.
“But,” Wen Chao ignored him. “After looking over father’s things, I recalled that this little thing," he waved it gently by Wei Ying's face. "was used during certain trade negotiations,” He lifted the vial higher, the light from the torches reflecting off of the glass. “Somthing to ensure all were being honest and all was fair. It was banned quickly after some…unsavory secrets were spilled, but my father is a wise man. He kept some.” Wen Chao grinned proudly. “It is old, but I am sure it will still work. This,” He waved it in front of them. “forces honesty, and if a question is asked, the recipient must answer.”
In the corner of his eye, Lan Wangji could see Wei Ying stiffen. Lan Wangji himself was feeling the weight of what was happening slowly envelop him. He didn’t know about the last piece of Yin Iron, but if Wei Ying did –
“Him first,” Wen Chao pointed to Wei Ying.
Wei Ying barely had time to react before the two soldiers who tried to drag him up the stairs were now grabbing at his shoulders. Wei Ying was forced forward, the guards ensuring he stood upright in front of Wen Chao.
Lan Wangji moved quickly, started to reach for Wei Ying to do - something, anything. “Wei Y- ” Someone, one of the soldiers probably, slammed their boot on Lan Wangji’s ankle, making sure to hit his broken leg. Lan Wangji couldn’t stop his gasp of pain, landing on his good knee.
“Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying shouted to him, now starting to struggle against the two soldiers. Wei Ying shot Wen Chao an irate look before he stopped fighting against the guards. Lan Wangji wondered if he would have kept fighting if it wasn’t for Lan Wangji.
Wei Ying continued giving Wen Chao a deadly look as the Wen popped open the vial, the lid falling to the floor. “It’s okay, Lan Zhan” Wei Ying said loudly. “Let this prove to this fool that we don’t have any information.”
Wen Chao rolled his eyes at Wei Ying's theatrics. Wei Ying shrugged off the soldiers hands and held his hand out, gesturing impatiently for the drink.
When Wen Chao took a step closer, Wei Ying willingly grabbed the container and started to chug it down until Wen Chao grabbed it from him, stopping him from finishing the bottle. Wei Ying swallowed all of the liquid with a grimace of disgust.
“What the hell is in this?” Wei Ying asked, making an exaggeratedly nauseous face.
“Don't whine, I think most of it got on your neck anyway - How do you feel?” Wen Chao asked, voice dripping in mock concern.
“Like shit, I think your moronic guards reopened your dog’s bites,” Wei Ying’s disgusted face morphed into panic. He looked between the container and Wen Chao with his first real sign of unease.
Wen Chao smirked, pleased. He leaned towards Wei Ying, his hands clasped behind his back. “Now, where is the fourth Ying Iron?”
"I don’t know,” Wei Ying spat at the other man, his hands clenched into fists.
Wen Chao’s smile faltered, but only for a moment. “You have no idea where it is?”
Wei Ying tighted his lips together but whateverthe serum was, it forced him to pry his lips apart. “I tried to limit the areas the Yin Iron may be, but I was unable to when you basically kidnapped my brother and I.”
Wen Chao narrowed his eyes at Wei Ying. He frowned, but was seemingly pleased that he was not the only one who couldn’t detect the last piece’s location. “Good, and now the Second Master Lan.”
Wei Ying’s eyes widened. “Hey!” He shouted violently, taking an aggressive step towards Wen Chao. He was unable to get far with his two Wen guards that were gropping him by either arm. “Wen Chao! I already answered, you have no right to force him to take it!"
“I have every right,” Wen Chao scoffed, looking st Wei Ying incredulously. “Especially when I suspect someone is lying to me."
Lan Wangji had been held up by by his own guards, but shrugged them off, knowing he would have no other choice than to take it. He held his hand out as Wei Ying did, keeping his chin high. He drank his share of the potion quickly, refusing to spit it out as he merely kept his eyes closed while he drank the bitter taste down. He didn’t dare spit it in Wen Chao’s face, no matter how strong the temptation was.
Wen Chao glowered at Lan Wangji. “Where is the Yin Iron?” He commanded, snatching the vial back.
It was an odd feeling; Lan Wangji felt the answer forming in his throat before he could even think of how he wanted to say it. Lan Wangji felt his mouth open before he could even attempt a lie. “I don’t know.” He answered honestly. He swallowed back the unpleasant aftertaste from the potion, raising his head up to stare daggers at their captor.
Wen Chao frowned, clearly not expecting the reply from him as well. “Do you know where it could be?” He sounded slightly frantic.
“My brother and I were unable to locate the Yin Iron before the invasion of Cloud Recess.”
Wen Chao’s frown deepened. “Do you know anyone who could know its location?”
“We were unable to make any speculations before your people invaded Cloud Recess.” Lan Wangji was unable to stop the tremor in his voice. He saw Wei Ying shoot a poisonous look towards Wen Chao.
Wen Chao looked genuinely confused at the lack of development. Good, Lan Wangji thought to himself. Wen Chao looked at the nearly empty bottle in his hand disappointedly. With an annoyed huff, he slammed in on one of the tables, regrettably not breaking the vial. “Where is Master Lan Xichen?” He snapped at Lan Wangji.
“I do not know,” Lan Wangji prayed he hid his relief at the words. He never thought he’d be so grateful to not know where Xichen was. “You captured us before I could discover his location.”
Wen Chao turned back to Wei Ying. "Are there any spies here?"
"I don't know," Wei Ying smirked at him. "Why do you ask? Do you think you have a spy?" Lan Wangji doubted that, since if there was, one of the sects would have been warned. But clearly Wen Chao was growing desperate; perhaps he was not supposed to have used the vial - or at least not on them.
Wen Chao looked back and forth between Wei Ying and Lan Wangji, his throat bobbing with questions he feared would lead to nothing. He slammed his hand on the table, glaring at Wei Ying and Lan Wangji with doubt. “You know nothing. So, you both are useless to me?”
“I mean, I feel like most things are useless to you, since you are incapable of doing anything correctly.” Wei Ying replied swiftly, crossing his arms over his chest.
Wen Chao’s eyes narrowed, eyeing him dangerously. His face turned red with anger.
“Hey, don’t look at me like that. It’s not my fault, you made me be honest,” Wei Ying shrugged, smirking. “So, clearly that is the truth.”
Lan Wangji bit down on his lips, hiding his smile. He didn’t know it was possible to fall more and more in love with Wei Ying by the day.
Wen Chao took a step forward, slapping his hand across Wei Ying’s face. Lan Wangji tried to move before he realized it, starting to dart towards Wen Chao but the grip of the guards were unyielding.
Wen Chao wiped his hand down the front his own robe, as if he touched something disgusting. Lan Wangji wanted him dead or just that. “What are you going to do about it?” He sneered at Lan Wangji.
“I would kill you if I could,” Lan Wangji said in a low voice. He didn’t need a truth potion to say that. His leg was intentionally kicked for his troubles, but it was worth it to see just a faint glimmer of fear in Wen Chao’s eyes.
Wen Chao tried to hide it by rolling his eyes at the display, stepping away from Wei Ying. “Get them both out of my sight.”
“When does the potion wear off?” Wei Ying asked pleasantly, even with the growing red mark on his cheek.
Wen Chao shrugged. “How should I know?" He snapped. "Maybe a day, maybe a week, I don’t care. Now get them out.”
Lan Wangji said nothing, instead he shot Wen Chao one more venomous glare. He was shoved forward, almost stumbling on his broken leg before he straightened himself up. Wei Ying instinctively reached forward to help him walk, and Lan Wangji moved away slightly, shaking his head; he couldn’t risk the guards hurting Wei Ying for trying to help him. They just needed to get back to their rooms and maybe he could rest, just for a moment.
"Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying whispered imploringly, and Lan Zhan shook his head; please, not yet.
Wei Ying looked upset but said nothing, glaring at their guards as they were continuously pushed along, back to their own separate rooms. Wei Ying kept his eyes on Lan Wangji until they were separated, and only then did Lan Wangji allow himself to hiss in pain when he walked on his leg.
"The night hunt will begin when Master Wen is ready.” Was all that was spoken to Lan Wangji as he was gestured towards his room. Lan Wangji didn’t bother asking when that would be; it would be whenever Wen Chao determined it. He let them slide the door shut and they silently stood by his door; he would have scoffed - did they really think he would try to run for it?
Lan Wangji limped to his bed and sat down, sighing in relief as he took the weight off of his leg. He looked around his empty room, feeling the heaviness of the silence surround him. No laughter, no sound of rushing footsteps, or a glimmer of a red ribbon flying past him. He was well and truly alone.
He never felt so lonely before.
Lan Wangji put his head in his hands and took a deep breath. He had to stay strong. For his uncle, for his brother…for Wei Ying.
*
Not even an hour had passed, and they were dragged out of their sad excuses of a room and forced to go to on the night-hunt in Mount Muxi. They were told nothing about the night hunt, other than the unhelpful instruction that they were needed to catch a “monster”.
They were gathered in a group and set out, following Wen Chao who rode on his horse. Lan Wangni could see Wei Ying was on his toes, eyes darting around the group before landing on Lan Wangji.
He started towards him, a question forming on his lips when Jiang Wanyin grabbed Wei Ying by his arm, stopping him. He said nothing, only shook his head lightly and tried to pull Wei Ying along with him.
Wei Ying looked upset and whispered something to his shidi. Whatever he said clearly didn’t satisfy Jiang Wanyin but he did let go of Wei Ying’s arm. Lan Wangji couldn’t make out what they said, but he thought prehaps he saw Wei Ying mouth 'trust me' to Jiang Wanyin. Slowly as they walked forward, Wei Ying made his way back to Lan Wangji.
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying whispered, keeping an eye out for Wen Chao. He was currently distracted by his mistress, holding her close to him as they ignored their surroundings. “I need to get Wen Qing to come talk to us.”
Lan Wangji kept his face natural, making sure to keep his tone low so no one could overhear them. “I am unsure if she would trust me enough to speak with me privately " he said slowly, unsure why Wei Ying was telling him this. "Why do you need to speak with her now?”
Too late he realized what he did.
“Wen Ning saved my life last night and I need to warn her in case I tell the truth of how I survived that cage with the dog,” Wei Ying answered in a rush, mouth hanging open when he was done. “Ugh, damn, that works fast.” He made an annoyed huffing sound. “But yeah, that. I need to warn her; she may need to go back for her brother and flee if Wen Ning's act is discovered. I doubt they will spare Wen Ning, no matter how much they may need Wen Qing."
Lan Wangji nodded, seeking her before locating the back of her head. Somehow sensing she was being watched, Wen Qing glanced back, seeing both Wei Ying and Lan Wangji watching her. With a confused expression, she turned her back on them.
"We can try," Lan Wangji promised. Wen Ning was kind, and his life shouldn't be at stake for his kindness. "I am unsure how I can help."
"It's you," Wei Ying said simply. "I think with the both of us, she may be convinced to leave."
Lan Wangji nodded, though he was sure Wei Ying would be able to convince her without him.
“It’s nice to be back to talking to each other again,” Wei Ying said after a moment, shoving a shoulder against Lan Wangji’s. “I was starting to think you were intentionally ignoring me.”
“...I was.”
“…” Wei Ying slowed his walk. “Ah. I see. Too bad, you're stuck with me. I told you I would help." He smiled, though it didn't reach his eyes.
"I wanted to keep you from getting more involved in this,” Lan Wangji said in a low voice. "I suppose that was foolish thinking."
Wei Ying’s face immediately brightened, a wide smile forming on his lips. “I knew you cared!” He said in an exaggerated whisper.
Oh, more than you know...
Wei Ying rubbed his nose thoughtfully, still staring at the back of Wen Qing’s head before he smiled suddenly. Carefully, slow enough not to drawn anyone else’s attention, he reached into his robe to pull out something.
Lan Wangji quickly recognized the shape as one of Wei Ying's paperman creations. He watched with rapt attention as Wei Ying sent the paperman towards her, observinghow it flew through the wind. He wasn’t sure what message Wei Ying sent her, but it was enough to have her demand a break a few moments later. Wen Chao scoffed but didn’t argue, instead turning his attention to Wang Lingjiao.
Wen Qing’s face stayed neutral, she moved swiftly through the crowd and Lan Wangji lost track of her.
“What do you need, Wei Wuxian?” Said a soft, tired voice.
Lan Wangji turned to see Wen Qing carefully concealing herself by a tree, looking ahead as she seemingly was ignoring them. Lan Wangji turned his head away from her, staring at the foggy mountains ahead of them.
“Wen Ning saved my life and I fear what Wen Chao will do to him if he finds out,” Wei Ying said, the truth serum causing to answer quickly. He was looking away from her, sitting next to Lan Wangji. “Wen Chao is growing angrier, especially since he wasn't able to get any information from Lan Zhan or myself. If he asks me something while Lan Zhan and I have this-" He cut himself off as he gestured irritably towards himself. “truth potion or whatever running through our veins, we may say something.”
Wen Qing stayed quiet for a moment, silently weighing over Wei Ying's words. “A-Ning gave you the medicine…” She sighed. “I told him I suspected as much, but I was hoping maybe he at least didn't reveal himself to you.”
Wei Ying shot her an apologetic look. “Please don’t blame him," he said before looking away. "but since I know he was there...” He trailed off, the implication clear.
Lan Wangji wondered what Lady Wen was thinking. He didn’t dare spare a look in case someone caught them. If he was in her place, his thoughts would be concern for his brother’s safety and if it could be guaranteed. “If Wen Chao or his father would bring harm to your brother, perhaps you should leave now.” Lan Wangji said in a lowered whisper. “while he is distracted." She glanced at Wen Chao, who was still paying her no mind. "Find an excuse or slip away while you can. Get Wen Qionglin and flee.”
“I cannot leave Wen Chao,” Wen Qing said without hesitation. “Not out of any misplaced loyalty,” She added when Wei Ying looked ready to argue. “Not anymore. But I have family. Not just my brother but others, many of them have children. If I help you," She lowered her voice. “It could lead to their deaths.”
Wei Ying sighed, fiddling with a rock as he stared ahead, focusing on the mountains. “But if you do nothing, you could lose your family anyway.”
Lan Wangji risked a glance towards Lady Wen. She had her arms crossed over her chest, staring at them with wet eyes. She angrily wiped the tears away. “You don’t understand, we can’t leave” She shook her head, looking less confident. “We are not so lucky in friends as you. They would kill him.”
Lan Wangji tilted his head to Wei Ying, unsure how to respond. If she stayed with the Wens with both Wei Ying and Lan Wangji having the truth curse, the odds of Wen Qionglin, and even Lady Wen’s life would be at risk.
“If Wen Chao fails at getting the last piece of the Yin Iron,” Wei Ying tossed the rock into the water. “His father could lose this war he wants to start, and you and Wen Ning's lives are still at risk.”
Lan Wangji heard a shuffling sound, and saw in the corner of his eye that Lady Wen lowered her arms, resting over her stomach in defeat. She ducked her head down, looking like the young woman she tried not to be. “What are you even suggesting for me to do to help?” She finally spoke.
"To get us help," Wei Ying’s shoulders slumped in apparent relief and he reached in the sides of his robe. What he pulled out was another paperman. “Take this and go to Lotus Pier.” He said, handing it to her when no one was looking at the threeof them. “Take Wen Ning with you. Let Sect Leader Jiang know that his son and I sent you two there. Tell him what you know and I swear to you, he will protect you bboth. Then he can send us help.”
Lady Wen eyed the yellow paperman, running her thumb down the edge with a trembling finger. “I fear Lotus Pier is their next target.” She said apprehensively, looking at Wei Ying.
Wei Ying shot Lan Wagnji a uneasy look before he took a deep breath in, calming his expression. “Even more reason to go before it’s too late.”
Wen Qing shot one more look at Wen Chao’s back, watching as he laughed at something Wang Lingjiao said. Wen Qing stayed quiet for a moment, looking between Wen Chao and the paperman for a few seconds. Then she nodded once to herself and stuffed the paperman in her sleeve. “I…If I see a safe opening, I will try to leave for A-Ning,” She said slowly. “I cannot make any promises. But since he saved you, I owe you.”
Wei Ying nodded to her gratefully. “You and Wen Ning owe me nothing. Just stay safe, and if you have the chance to go home to Wen Ning, take it and run. Remember; go to Lotus Peir and give him the paperman as proof Jiang Cheng and I sent you.”
Wen Qing said nothing more, and instead slipped away effortlessly, returning to the other Wens as if she had never left. Wen Chao never noticed her sudden return to his side, still nuzzling Wang Lingjiao’s neck.
It wasn't a promise, but there was hope yet. Lan Wangji started to push himself up, putting more weight on his good leg when Wei Ying softly put a hand on his shoulder settling him back down. “Stay here, I will get you some water.”
Nodding his thanks least he say something he shouldn’t, Lan Wangji watched as Wei Ying went by a stream to get him water. Regrettably, his kind action drew the attention of Wen Chao. If not for him using a talisman to find a cave’s opening, Lan Wangji feared what Wen Chao would do.
Lan Wangji regretted that his rest was so short, but forced himself to get up nonetheless, shuffling forward when Wei Ying came by his side. He wrapped an arm around Lan Wangji’s bicep, letting him lean on Wei Ying as they walked towards the back of their group.
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying said after they walked for a while, slowing his steps as he walked in sync with Lan Wangji. “Lan Zhan, has this…potion worn off for you yet?"
“No,” Lan Wangji answered without delay. He bit his lip; it had been half a day already - was it really going to last days, weeks, maybe even months?
Wei Ying’s shoulders dropped. “I was afraid of that. Here, ask me something.”
Lan Wangji thought for a moment. “What is your favorite food?”
“Shijie’s pork rib and lotus soup,” Wei Ying sighed at his instinctive reply. Lan Wangji silently noted the information. “It hasn’t worn off for me either then,” He said with a small groan. He rubbed the side of his head. “So far, it activates if someone directly asks us question, so we just have to be careful around others for a bit.”
Lan Wangji agreed, his fingers twitching on nothing as he glared to the back of Wen Chao’s head.
Huffing to himself, Lan Wangji skimmed over Wei Ying’s face, grateful to have no one looking at him. Wei Ying looked exhausted, probably as tired as Lan Wangji felt. When was the last time he slept, Lan Wangji wondered. He still had scuff marks on his chin and faded blood on his neck, either having no time to wipe it off or he didn't know they were there.
“Are you in pain?” Lan Wangji asked in a low voice, moving forward to wipe at Wei Ying’s cheek with his sleeve as they slowly walked together.
“Yes,” Wei Ying said without hesitation. His eyes grew wider as he clearly hadn’t meant to say the truth. “The dog bites may scar over my older dog bites, so that may be nice. But I think my rib should heal in a few - ” Wei Ying slammed a hand over his mouth and his voice became muffled as he finished speaking.
“Sorry,” Lan Wangji grimaced at the force that Wei Ying slapped his mouth, still carefully wiping over Wei Ying’s bloody chin. “I shouldn’t have phrased it as a question. I am sorry.”
Wei Ying winced when Lan Wangji accidently grazed a deeper cut on his face. “Not your fault,” He said grimly. “It’s that Wen Chao…” He sent the other man a dark glare. Lan Wangji stopped wiping at Wei Ying’s face when he removed the last bit of dried blood. “let’s make a deal – if we say something accidentally, we don’t share it with anyone else.”
Lan Wangji felt it was fairly obvious that he wouldn’t tell anyone something that Wei Ying revealed in confidence, but - Lan Wangji looked at Wei Ying’s determined expression – ah...he understood now. It was Wei Ying’s way of assuring Lan Wangji that he would keep anything that Lan Wangji revealed to himself.
“Agreed," Lan Wangji said, unable to keep the fondness out of his voice.
Wei Ying smiled softly before he ducked his head down while rubbing the back of his neck, attempting to hide a growing redness that was setting on his cheekbones. “I will have to refrain from asking the great Second Master Lan what he truly thinks of this one,” He teased.
Lan Wangji hoped his hair would hide the pinkness that was surely spreading to his ears. If Wei Ying dared to ask him something he thought was silly - like if Lan Wangji had feelings for someone - Lan Wangji would confess in an instant.
Lan Wangji swllowed; he couldn’t risk that. He wondered if Wei Ying would be disgusted by Lan Wangji’s feelings, or if he would be full of pity when he tried to gently turn him down. In that moment, Lan Wangji wasn’t sure which option would be worse.
Sensing someone was glaring his way, Lan Wangji roved his eyes to find that Jiang Wanyin was staring at both Wei Ying and Lan Wangji, annoyance radiating off of him. Wei Ying noticed his brother’s stare and let out a quick laugh. “I better get back to him before he breaks my legs. Will you be - ” Wei Ying caught himself , lightly tapping himself on the lips. “Sorry.” Wei Ying said. “I will be back.” He stated instead.
Lan Wangji nodded. It was good that Wei Ying didn’t ask him if he would be okay without him; Lan Wangji was sure he would end up admitting how much he needed him
*
The cave was soon cluttered with the other sect heirs and their bodyguards. Lan Wangji felt the rocks from the floor dig into his feet, agitating his broken leg that was trying to heal even in his tired and hungry state. He pursed his lips, staying quiet.
Lan Wangji shot a quick look towards Wei Ying, surprised to see that the other man was looking at him worriedly. Wei Ying gave him a quick supportive smile before leaning towards Jiang Wanyin to whisper something to him.
Lan Wangji was grateful he was near the back of the group; no one would see his soft expression as he stared hopelessly at Wei Ying’s profile. He needed to keep his face impassive whenever possible; if Wen Chao saw him eyeing Wei Ying, he may force Lan Wangji to say what he was thinking, or worse, Wen Chao would hurt Wei Ying if he knew how much Lan Wangji cared for him.
“Yes, it is here!” Lan Wangji heard Wen Chao yell out. Lan Wangji wasn’t sure what ‘here’ was; there before them was a dark edge of a cliff that lead into what seemed to be nothingness. He leaned towards the edge, seeing nothing. “Go! Get down there!” Wen Chao yelled at the group.
They all took turns staring at Wen Chao incredulously.
Wei Ying looked at Wen Chao, before looking over at the pit again. “It seems bottomless. And not knowing what monster is there, how can we get down there?” Wei Ying took a step forward, glancing down into the dark pit.
Wen Chao let out a huff of frustration and grabbed Wei Ying by the back of his robe. Lan Wangji found himself moving forward but it was too late; Wen Chao pushed Wei Ying, sending him over the edge.
“Wei Ying!” Lan Wangji yelled out. He sent Wen Chao a look of utter disgust as Lan Wangji grabbed one of the ropes a Jin member was using to climb down. Jiang Wanyin was nect to Lan Wangji, climbing down as well with a worried expression.
Lan Wangji started down the slippery slope of the cave’s edge, ignoring the pain in his leg. Wei Ying had landed painfully on the ground, clutching at his ribs with a grimace. Did he land on one of his already bruised ribs?
Lan Wangji moved to Wei Ying straightaway, grabbing him under his arm and gradually heling him to his feet. “Take care, I got you,” Lan Wangji mumbled, looking over Wei Ying for fresh wounds.
Wei Ying glanced at Wen Chao’s face and carefully removed himself from Lan Wangji’s hold. Lan Wangji wanted to argue, but kept his mouth shut, at least Wen Chao was so focused on the new area that he mercifully ignored the two of them.
"Wei Wuxian!" Jiang Wanyin grabbed We Ying's arm. "Are you hurt?"
"I've been hurting for the entire day at this point," Wei Ying answered. "Ah crap." He groaned when Jiang Wanyin continued to look horrified. "It's okay, after this night hunt, I'll rest."
"Will you?" Jiang Wanyin asked in a hushed whisper, fully taking advantage of Wei Ying’s situation.
"I'll be too worried about you and Lan Zhan getting hurt for me to actually sleep."
Wei Ying dug his hand into his face. "Okay okay," he hissed. "I'll actually rest when we get back, happy?"
"I'm never happy," Jiang Wanyin said, but his expression softened. Lan Wangji eyed him curiously. He did not understand their relationship, but he could not deny that Wei Ying and Jiang Wanyin cared for each other.
Lan Wangji stood near Wei Ying once they started walking again, while Jiang Wanyin moved ahead, staring at the new area. Lan Wangji's rage increased when he saw how Wei Ying was cradling his rib when he thought Lan Wangji wasn’t looking.
Lan Wangji reached a hand out, before lowering it when Wen Chao looked his way; publicly giving Wei Ying spiritual energy may be dangerous with the Wens so close by. As soon as they had a moment alone, he would try.
Lan Wangji looked around but didn’t see anything that proved a spiritual beast lived here, maybe Wen Chao was wrong about the monster being here after all. Perhaps the trip was a waste.
He looked at Wei Ying hopefully. “Maybe nothing is here,” He mumbled. Maybe they could all get out of here unscathed.
*
As the tortoise's teeth dug into his leg, rebreaking bone, Lan Wangji decided he really needed to keep his thoughts to himself.
The others from the clans were able to dive into the dark and swim to safety, thanks to Wei Ying. Lan Wangji started to follow them but first he looked around for the classic red ribbon, before finding Wei Ying – who was attempting to fight the creature by himself.
Absolutely not.
Lan Wangji let out a grunt when the creature's teeth sunk deeper into his flesh. He felt Wei Ying grab him and start to pull him away from the creature's mouth, his leg trailing uselessly behind them as they moved from the tortoise’s seeking teeth.
“Wei Wuxian!” Jiang Wanyin’s terrified voice rang through the cave’s walls.
“Go! Get help and come back for us!” Wei Ying yelled back to Jiang Wanyin, still half dragging Lan Wangji away. They hid through a small opening in the cave, the monster growling in disappointment for losing more food. Lan Wangji could hear some splashing as the creature tried fruitless to push through the wall.
“I’ll come back for you!” Jiang Wanyin yelled before more splashing sounds were heard and soon there was only the sound of the monster uselessly growled at Lan Wangji and Wei Ying, both too far for it to bite.
Wei Ying panted heavily, leaning against the cave’s wall, he placed his arm over Lan Wangji’s chest as he peaked over the corner. The creature let out one more snarl before it gave up. It stomped away, the sound of water was heard, and then pure silence.
“Are you okay?” Wei Ying asked after a few moments of quiet, placing a hand over Lan Wangji’s arm.
“No, it feels like the bone shattered in my leg,” Lan Wangji felt the answer slip past him without warning. The lack of control was becoming exasperating.
“Are you injured?” He asked Wei Ying, certain that the other was hiding more inuries.
“Just the burn, and I think I busted another rib from the fall before,” Wei Ying slapped a hand over his head and groaned, pressing his forehead against the cave’s rocky wall. “That son of a biiiitch, when I get my hands on Wen Chao - ”
Lan Wangji leaned against the cave wall before letting himself slide down, laying his busted leg flat on the ground. “You may need to hurry with that. Perhaps there will be a line after today.”
Wei Ying stopped his angry mumbling and kneeled down next to Lan Wangji. He snorted. “Anyone who says you aren’t funny are not paying attention…” His smile faded when he looked at Lan Wangji’s bleeding leg.
“We will need to bind it somehow,” Wei Ying said, more to himself than Lan Wangji. He quickly got up moved around the room, grabbing sticks and branches, bunching them together under his arm as he looked around the area.
“I’ll still need something to bind your leg,” Wei Ying said, sitting back down by Lan Wangji’s side. “Do you have any rope?”
“No,” Lan Wangji said. “There are the ropes we came down on but I wouldn’t risk awakening the creature.”
Wei Ying frowned slightly before he looked up at Lan Wangji. Without any warning, Wei Ying reached up to brush his fingertips over the pristine Lan forehead ribbon. Then, before Lan Wangji could say anything, Wei Ying gently but quickly yanked off Lan Wangji’s sacred ribbon.
“You!” Lan Wangji’s mouth fell open.
“Me what? At such a time, don’t care so much,” Wei Ying huffed, tying the light blue ribbon around the sticks, keeping Lan Wangji’s leg secure “Can the ribbon be more important than your leg?”
“Yes, it is sacred,” Lan Wangji shot back, knowing his face was turning as red as Wei Ying’s own hair ribbon.
Wei Ying slowed down as he continued wrapping the ribbon. “Sorry,” He said, sounding genuine. “Forgot.”
“How could you forget when you wrote it over three hundred times?” Lan Wangji mumbled to himself. Unfortunately, it was, even if said quietly, still directed to Wei Ying.
“I didn’t forget, I didn’t hear that rule. I was too busy looking at you to pay attention to what I was writing anyway,” Wei Ying’s mouth dropped open, his eyes practically bugging out of his sockets.
Lan Wangji opened his mouth, than snapped it shut. Wait – he – Wei Ying said he was looking at him – in what way exactly?? Lan Wangji felt any words he tried to utter started to jumble together in his head - he felt like he was going to-
Lan Wangji started gagging. He leaned to the side and started spitting up stale blood that settled in his core. It dripped past his lips, the mouthful aroundhis tongue made it hard to speak.
Wei Ying moved by Lan Wangji’s side, placing his fingers over Lan Wangji’s heart as he started steadying the blood flow. Instantly Lan Wangji could feel the affect, could feel how his body lost the tension, could feel how his heart started to beat easily again.
“There we go,” Wei Ying sighed, a look of reliefon his face. “I didn’t even mean for that to happen that way; I was going to try something else to make you spit that out.” Wei Ying grinned softly, showing just a bit of his perfect front teeth. Lan Wangji always thought they looked similar to one of his rabbit’s front teeth. “Much better with all that stale blood gone now, right? Don’t you feel better now?” He asked, looking at Lan Wangji hopefully.
“Yes, especially with you here,” Okay, well that was just unfair; Wei Ying didn’t even ask him that part specifically! Lan Wangji cleared his throat. “Thank you.”
Wei Ying let his hand fall from Lan Wangji’s chest. “You don’t need to thank me; it feels weird….” He sighed, leaning against the wall, shoulder brushing against Lan Wagnji’s. “I didn’t see Wen Qing once we entered the cave, did you?”
Lan Wangji thought for a moment, slowly shaking his head. “I did not…do you think…”
Wei Ying sighed. “I hope so. Maybe in the confusion, she fled back home and will escape with Wen Ning. If Jiang Cheng manages to go back to Lotus Pier to help us, he may see her.”
“I think she will make,” Lan Wangji said, no need for a truth curse. They were quiet for a moment.
“Have you ever practiced inedia?” Wei Ying asked suddenly, starting to shuffle around as he tried to get comfortable, unable to keep still. Lan Wangji loves him so much.
“Yes, usually during night hunts usually,” Lan Wangji answered quickly. It was expected after all. “And you?”
“Yeah, though I always joke that I don’t need to since I’m used to starving.” Wei Ying answered. He made an annoyed expression before shrugging. “Well, didn’t mean for that part but yeah, I have practiced inedia.”
Lan Wangji glared at Wei Ying.
“What's that face for?” Wei Ying looked confused. “Wait no - ”
“Don’t like thinking of you being in pain,” Lan Wangji didn’t think he even needed the truth serum to say that; he hated to think that Wei Ying was used to being hungry. “When we get out of here, I will ask Lady Jiang to teach me how to make your soup.” Well, that part was not something he wanted to add.
Wei Ying said nothing at first, looking at Lan Wangji with an odd look. “I need to get more wood,” Wei Ying said abruptly.
“Do you really?” Lan Wangji asked, not meaning to ask.
“No but I can’t risk saying-” Quickly Wei Ying slapped his hand over his mouth and screaming into it when his muffled words stopped. “Can’t you use your silencing spell on me at this point??”
“I can, but I like your voice,” Lan Wangji felt like he almost broke his teeth with the force he gave to cover his own mouth.
Wei Ying and Lan Wangji stared at each other for a few moments before Wei Ying broke eye contact and practically ran out of the room, his hand still clamped over his mouth.
Lan Wangji hesitantly dragged his hands down his face, looking at where Wei Ying had stood mere moments ago. What did Wei Ying mean? He meant it as in he enjoyed spending time with him? And what did he mean he couldn’t risk saying – what?
Lan Wangji sat there, hearing the sounds of Wei Ying cursing at himself in the distance. After a few moments, his swearing stopped and he started mumbling to himself.
Lan Wangji let out a soft laugh, listening to soothing sound of Wei Ying’s voice. With that sound, Lan Wangji fell asleep.
*
Lan Wangji woke up in the morning, and Wei Ying was sitting in front of a self-made fire. He was holding his black cloak near it, attempting to dry it off. Lan Wangji looked down at his leg, ready to endure the dulling pain. His eyebrows raised when he saw not only was his ribbon missing where it had been holding the sticks together, but there was some herbs on his bite wound.
“I didn’t want you to be nervous without your ribbon, I put it back on for you,” Wei Ying said, looking apologetic. “I know you probably wanted to put it on yourself, but I figured that you would want it back on when you woke up.”
Lan Wangji nodded his thanks. If he spoke, he feared what he would declare, truth curse or not. As always, Wei Ying was making it…incredibly difficult to feel indifferent to him. Lan Wangji breathed out. He definitely failed at acting apathetic to him. Hiding his emotions was challenging when Wei Ying was…just so Wei Ying – so bright and loud and clever and fun and beautiful and and and -
With a small shake of his head, Lan Wangji looked back at his leg, rubbing at the herbs curiously.
“It is the panacea Wen Ning gave me,” Wei Ying answered Lan Wangji’s silent question. “I thought there was more, but it must have been lost in the fight.” He said, looking abashed.
Lan Wangji frowned at the reaction. “It is not your fault…” How could it have been; it most likely fell when he was pushed, or when he tried to save Luo Qingyang. “did you use any on yourself?”
“Only a bit that Wen Ning gave me when I was first injured – anyways, I don’t deserve anymore after losing the rest of the natural energy booster.” Wei Ying continued to try and dry his robe, grimacing slightly at his confession. “I think this truth telling curse, or whatever this is, I think it’s getting worse as the hours go on.”
“You do deserve it,” Lan Wangji glared at Wei Ying, ignoring the other’s attempt to district him.
Wei Ying laughed delightfully, scooting impossibly close to Lan Wangji. “Ah Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan, you are too kind to this one,” He said, smiling as he bumped their shoulders together as he tried to tease his way out of this.
“Not too kind,” Lan Wangji mumbled, uncharacteristic of himself. He ignored Wei Ying’s confused look at his words, instead staring at Wei Ying’s burn mark from the Wen iron. He could see the burned skin was attempting to heal; it would undoubtedly leave a scar. “Wei Ying.” He said, using his sleeve to hide his actions in collecting some of the panacea.
Wei Ying looked up instantly, fully facing Lan Wangji. “I’m here.”
Lan Wangji pressed some of the herbs into Wei Ying’s burn wound, pressing as gently as he could so it would stay on.
Wei Ying hissed in pain, jerking away. “Lan Zhan, that hurts!”
“You’re welcome,” Lan Wangji said, still placing his hand over the wound to keep the herbs in place.
Wei Ying’s eyes widen comically before he let out a low laugh. “Even you can tease me now…” He smiled, staring at Lan Wangji with a, perhaps, fond expression. “It’s okay,” He said, prying Lan Wangi’s hand away. “I have been through worse.”
Lan Wangji almost asked what Wei Ying meant but he quickly stopped; he wanted Wei Ying to tell him if he chose to. Instead, Lan Wangji glared at him, but stayed silent.
Wei Ying turned his head towards the small entrance. The monster had not made any more movement, and they seemed to still be out of its reach. “I’ll be back.” Wei Ying said.
Lan Wangji grabbed one of Wei Ying’s wrist. “Where?”
“Going to see if we can get past the hole that the others went through,” Wei Ying replied as if it was obvious, softly covering Las Wangji hands with his own as he gradually started to pry Lan Wangji’s fingers from his wrist.
Instead, Lan Wangji gripped his wrist tighter. “With your wound, you should not go into the water.”
“I am not so delicate,” Wei Ying said in a teasing voice. “I’m more worried about you.” He sent a quick glance towards Lan Wangji’s leg, now stained in brown dried blood. “And we have no idea when Jiang Cheng is coming back. Yunmeng is closer, but if he or even Lady Wen are getting help, without their swords, help may be days away.”
Lan Wangji lowered his head, thinking the words over. Days before help come. Wouldthey make it without trying to get past thebeast? “They are better off going to Yunmeng…” He said in a small voice.
Wei Ying frowned. “Why?” Wei Ying asked inquisitively, no longer pulling away. Instead, he sat down next to him, giving Lan Wangji a concerned look.
Lan Wangji was almost grateful for the truth serum, he was unsure if he could confess it otherwise. “Cloud Recesses was burned...”
“Burned…” Wei Ying’s knee bumped against Lan Wangji as he reached forward to grip Lan Wangji’s hand. “Are your people safe? Your uncle, brother?” He asked without thinking.
Lan Wangji’s voice sounded monotone even to his own ears, his eyes started to burn as he thought over where his family was. “Uncle is wounded…and brother was missing when I encountered the Wens at Cloud Recesses.” Lan Wangji felt his voice start to shake. “I never got to see Xichen when I returned. I never got to tell him that I owe him so much. For everything he's done for me. For hs support with - ”
Wei Ying gently placed his hand over Lan Wangji’s mouth, letting him speak into his hand without Wei Ying having to hear. “I’m sorry,” He said, slowly dropping his hand when Lan Wangji stopped speaking. “I think the spell is making us reveal more and more the longer it’s in our system – reveal more than usual, I should say. You don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to.”
Lan Wangji could only stare at Wei Ying with parted lips. Oh, oh he loves him so much.
“Please stay here,” Lan Wangji said. I love you silently woven in his words. “Don’t go looking for it – the monster could still be there.”
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying stared at him pleadingly. “If I don’t look, then we cannot escape.”
“It’s most likely blocking the exit – even if we could find it, how would we go without waking the creature up?” Lan Wangji insisted.
“I don’t know. I just know I would make sure you got out, even if I had to stay behind,” Wei Ying was forced to admit – Lan Wangji wondered if Wei Ying would have said the same thing even without the truth serum.
“Wei Ying!” Lan Wagnji said imploringly.
“Oops. Well, I guess I can’t say I was just joking,” Wei Ying tried, shrugging nonchalantly. “But you need to get back home and find your brother – find your family. If only one of us can get out of this, I would want it to be you. Besides, I am not any Sect’s heir, so my death will not affect anything.” He added, as if that would change anything.
“If I was not a Sect heir, would you feel so little of me?” Lan Wangji demanded, his gut clenching painfully at Wei Ying’s flippant reaction towards himself.
“Of course not!” Wei Ying said, offended. “But that’s different. It’s you. You’re different – you’re too important to lose!”
“And you’re not?” He didn’t care that he was asking questions; he was not going to have Wei Ying go into the water. If he ended up hating Lan Wangji, so be it – but he would risk Wei Ying’s life.
“It’s not that!” Wei Ying huffed, rubbing his forehead, growing upset. “I have no desire to die; but if it comes down to you or me, I pick you!”
“I don’t understand,” Lan Wangji pleaded. “It’s not about the Lan clan, it’s not about the Yin Iron - Why do you care so much with what happens to me?” Lan Wangji froze, but it was too late.
Wei Ying tried to slam his hand over his mouth, but he was too slow. “Because I love you!” Wei Ying yelled, horror in his eyes. He smacked his hand over his mouth, as if he could drag the words back and hide them deep within again.
Lan Wangji stared at Wei Ying – that – he didn’t really say that, did he? “Wei Ying?”
Wei Ying kept his hand over his mouth. He took a step back from Lan Wangji, shaking his head as he immediately tried to answer.
Lan Wangji pushed himself up from the ground, taking a hesitant step forward. “Wei Ying,” He said, softer this time. He put his hands over Wei Ying’s shaking fingers. “It’s okay,” He said as he carefully pulled Wei Ying’s fingers from his mouth.
Wei Ying finally forced himself to look at Lan Wangji, breath trembling as he began to speak. “Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying shook his head rapidly. “I didn’t mean to say that – Lan Zhan please.” He grabbed Lan Wangji by his forearms. “Please don’t hate me. I won’t ever say it again, I won’t –Just – don’t hate me.”
Lan Wangji couldn’t look away from Wei Ying, eyes trailing over his soft face. He wanted to memorize in every scar, every freckle, every beauty mark as he took it all in before he confessed what was resting on his heart.
“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji said again, tenderly. “Ask me how I feel about you.”
Wei Ying abruptly stopped his rambling, looking at Lan Wangji with a confused expression. “What -”
“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji cupped Wei Ying’s cheeks. “Ask me.”
“But, I – wha - ” Wei Ying stuttered for a moment before he stared at Lan Wangji’s still face. Lan Wangji said nothing, just waiting for Wei Ying. “Lan Zhan,” He sounded hesitant.
“How – how do you feel about me?”
Lan Wangji’s heart soared.
“I love you. I feel as though I have loved you my entire life,” Lan Wangji barely let Wei Ying finish before he answered. “I love you. Wei Ying, I love you,” He repeated, pulling Wei Ying closer. “I couldn’t stop loving you anymore than I could stop breathing."
"...Lan Zhan," Wei Ying moved closer, their chests almost touching. "You- me- really?"
Lan Wangji raised a hand, resting it over We Ying's cheek. "Yes, really," he whispered, thumb carefully caressing Wei Ying's bottom lip. "Stop me if you do not wish for this.”
“Wish for wha - ” Lan Wangji pulled Wei Ying’s face forward and pressed their lips together. It was quick, could barely be called a kiss, let alone a magical first kiss – but it was with Wei Ying, so therefore it was the most perfect kiss. He started to pull way when Wei Ying inhaled sharply and dragged Lan Wangji back in. He kissed him until Lan Wangji was sure that he wouldn't be able to stand if it wasn’t for Wei Ying’s relentless grip on his elbows, drawing him closer.
Lan Wangji would have kissed Wei Ying until he had no breath in his lungs, and even then he was disappointed to pull away, but he knew they should probably breathe. Lan Wangji leaned back slowly, eyes never leaving Wei Ying’s. “No matter what happens next, no matter where we end up, know that I love you.”
Wei Ying moved his hands to grip Lan Wangji’s biceps, holding onto him as if he was the one that would collapse if he let go. Maybe he would, maybe Lan Wangji was the one holding onto Wei Ying so tightly, he was no longer sure.
“We’re still stuck in the cave,” Wei Ying laughed, wiping at his eyes.
“Yes,” Lan Wangji agreed, still smiling softly.
“And we don’t know when we will get out,” Wei Ying pressed on, lifting his hand up to rest over Lan Wangji’s cheek, before lowering to press on Lan Wangji’s bottom lip. It was sore and pink, Lan Wangji was sure; if it matches the state of Wei Ying’s lips, it was definitely plump and red and very, very kissable.
“That is true,” Lan Wangji nodded, wrapping his arms around Wei Ying’s waist.
“Why don’t I feel nervous anymore?” Wei Ying asked, more to himself as he rubbed a thumb over the hollow of Lan Wangji’s cheek, eyes roving over Lan Wangji. “Maybe because I don’t have to hid anything from you anymore.”
Lan Wangji was prepared to be forced to answer, but instead of him being forced to reply, he was quiet. Lan Wangji frowned slightly, and Wei Ying blinked once when he saw Lan Wangji wasn’t forced to answer.
“It’s gone? Now it’s over?” Wei Ying said exasperated, not truly looking upset. “Of course. Convenient timing. I guess it’s not too bad now.”
“Maybe it went away when we confessed our deepest truths.”
“Ah Lan Zhan, I knew you were a romantic. What other things are you hiding from me?”
Lan Wangji had no reason to lie; Wei Ying wasn’t expecting a real answer anyway. Lan Wangji didn’t need to answer just yet; he could wait to until later, when they were free and he could perhaps even play it for him. And yet –
“A song.”
“A song?” Wei Ying sounded surprised. He leaned forward eagerly. “You wrote a song? About what?”
“When we get home, I will play it for you,” Lan Wangji said, running a hand down the side of Wei Ying’s face.
“What’s it about?” Wei Ying pressed himself closer to Lan Wangji.
“Us,” Lan Wangji ducked his head down, feeling his face grow hot.
Instead of teasing, Wei Ying looked at Lan Wangji softly. “I can’t wait to hear it.”
“Hear what?" A voice commanded.
Lan Wangji jumped. He felt quiet embarrassed to do so, but he was so caught up in holding Wei Ying, kissing Wei Ying, Wei Ying, that he somehow didn’t hear or sense –
“Jiang Cheng!” Wei Ying gripped Lan Wangji’s shoulders once, before unenthusiastically pulling away. “Where did – How did you find us?” Wei Ying didn’t wait for an answer before he pulled Jiang Wanyin into a tight embrace.
“I know where you guys were, I’m not blind,” Jiang Wanyin rolled his eyes but he held Wei Ying back just as tightly with one arm. He looked exhausted; dark bags were starting to form under his eyes, and he seemed to lean into Wei Ying’s hold. His free hand was gripping his sword, Lan Wangji was tempted to ask but let the brother have a moment. “It hasn’t even been that long, get off of me,” He said in a low voice, but he notably did not let go first.
“But how did you get back so fast?” Wei Ying insisted, grabbing either side of Jiang Wanyin’s shoulders enthusiastically.
“Lady Wen Qing was able to find our group when we were heading back to the Lanling,” Jiang Wanyin’s voice sounded different when he mentioned Lady Wen’s name, Lan Wangji noted with curiosity.
Huh.
“She was with her brother, and she showed us your paperman to show she was with us. I didn’t even know she left the group before the cave.”
“But how did you get here?” Wei Ying asked impatiently, as if there wasn’t a slumbering monster nearby. Lan Wangji loves him so much.
“It’s not just me;” Jiang Wanyin said, sounding a bit annoyed at the fact. “Jin Zixuan is here too.” Both he and Wei Ying turned their noses up. “I know. Look, can we go now before it wakes up? I’ll explain better when we don’t have the threat of a creature eating us alive nearby."
Tragically, Jiang Wanyin had a point. Wei Ying grabbed Lan Wangji’s arm and together they followed Jiang Cheng’s lead. He and Jin Zixuan prehaps dug a way out. It was near the entrance they first came in with the ropes, and there seemed to have been rocks blocking the path since the last time they came through.
“Wen Chao blocked it in case anyone tried to come back this way, most likely,” Jiang Wanyin explained, grabbing Wei Ying’s hand and helping them both out.
Jin Zixuan was waiting for them outside, looking awkward for the first time that Lan Wangji had ever seen. “You’re both okay,” He said, genuinely sounding relieved.
Lan Wangji lowered his head in thanks and even Wei Ying nodded, not even sarcastically.
“How did you both get your swords back?” Lan Wangji asked, noting that Jin Zixuan was holding three swords, one of which being Bìchén.
“Lady Wen,” Jin Zixuan answered simply, tossing Bìchén and Suíbiàn to them. Lan Wangji grabbed his sword midair, letting out a soft grateful sigh.
“She was able to sneak out a few out of our swords when she and her brother escaped,” Jiang Wanyin answered in depth. “She left for Lotus Pier still, while the others are getting more help. Which, I guess they won’t need to now,” Jiang Wnayin said, like it was their fault.
Wei Ying grinned back at Lan Wangji. “I knew she would help.” He said excitedly as he ran back to Lan Wangji and kissed him firmly on the lips.
There was a short pause.
“What. The hell. Did I miss?” Jiang Wanyin had thankfully sheathed his sword, or else Lan Wangji would probably need to fight back with a broken leg, and he was sure Jiang Wanyin would not take kindly to being beaten by someone with such an injury.
“What do you mean? You missed nothing,” Wei Ying said innocently, kissing Lan Wangji’s cheek. “Isn’t that right, Lan Zhan?”
“Hm,” Lan Wangji agreed, kissing the freckle under Wei Ying's lip.
“No, no, nononono - ” Jiang Wanyin waved his sheathed sword between the two. Jin Zixuan was staring at the two of them with his mouth dropping open, unable to do anything but splutter for a few moments.
“No.” Jiang Wanyin finally finished. “You! And him?? And – just – how did this happen, it’s been two days!!”
Wei Ying grinned at his shidi, wrapping an arm around Lan Wangji’s waist to keep him upright.
“I am not telling A-Jie that you got engaged without her permission.” Jiang Wanyin finally said.
“Who said engagement? Unless…” Wei Ying looked at Lan Wangji, unsure.
Lan Wangji looked at Wei Ying fondly. “Of course. If Wei Ying will have me. Brother will approve.” Xichen was going to be disappointed for a month when he is found and discovered Lan Wangji got engaged to Wei Ying without using Lan Xichen’s fifty-step plan on How To Confess To Wei Ying.
Lan Wangji just got Wei Ying; if Wei Ying would take him, Lan Wangji would never let him go.
Wei Ying grabbed Lan Wangji by his face and pulled him into another kiss. “Yes, yes I accept!” He wrapped his around around Lan Wangji, and Lan Wangji ran his hand over the back of Wei Ying’s head, pulling him closer.
“Hey, whoa now!” Jin Zixuan tried, looking at Jiang Wanyin as if he could stop the public display of affection. Unfortunately for them, Lan Wangji wasn't planning on letting go of Wei Ying. Maybe ever.
“I made it worse??” Jiang Wanyin hissed in a whisper before quickly slapping a hand over his eyes. “Okay, you know what," he said as he dragged his hand down his face. "we’ll discuss this later, when we don’t have a sleeping monster so close to us.” He jerked his head towards the cave’s entrance. They were far enough for their sounds not to matter, but Lan Wangji chose to remain silent.
Wei Ying must have decided to spare Jiang Wanyin anymore heart attacks and simply smiled, still holding on to Lan Wangjil.
“Where to next? Lotus Pier? Or do you need to return to Cloud Recesses first?”
“Wherever Wei Ying goes, I will go.” Lan Wangji held his hand. "Once we have a plan, we can go to Gusu." Lan Wangji held his hand tighter. "You can ask your sister about her soup recipe before we go."
Wei Ying looked like he would melt in Lan Wangji’s arms if could. Jiang Wanyin and Jin Zixuan attempted the impossible and shared a matching look of annoyance. Lan Wangji felt himself wanting to laugh. Instead to turned his head towards Wei Ying.
“Shall we?”
Wei Ying grinned. Holding Lan Wangji's tightly as they went off, together.