Lan Xichen and Lan Zhan P.O,V
The twin jades had talked about it at length the past few days, what the future was going to be with the coming war. They had made and hidden copies of their ancient texts in the caves over the past few weeks as well as preparing arrays to protect their home- many of them with the help of Young Master Wei. However, the brothers also felt it was time they face their father, Qingheng-Jun had spent enough years in seclusion and if it continued, he would no doubt end up dying in this timeline as well. This is why the brothers are currently seated outside his door together, waiting for their father to acknowledge their presence.
They have been seated there for hours, morning has turned into noon and now evening is casting its cool light as the night descends. Finally, though, the door slides open, and a man in long pale blue robes can be seen in the doorway. He looks like a more depressed, older version of his youngest son, his hair worn half up, braided on the sides and tied with a deep blue ribbon. "If I continue to ignore you, will you stay seated there forever?" his voice is tired, his gold eyes are sad... speaking to years spent mourning his wife's death.
"Only until you listen to what we have to say Fuqin." Xichen speaks softly, his tone calm, he remains kneeling before the door, his sword still held in front of him in a respectful bow. Next to him, Wangji nods in agreement but does not look up. The silence stretches on for a few more minutes before the figure finally sighs, stepping back from the door.
"Come in, tell me what it is you need me to know." Qingheng-Jun says, padding softly back into the main living area of his residence. Wangji and Xichen both rise, looking at each other as if to say 'here goes nothing' before entering the residence.
They settle at the tea table across from their father, the man is just as locked in his depressive state as he was the last time Lan Zhan spoke to him at age 8... there are more crows feet around his eyes now though, the man's age beginning to peak through the slowed aging of a powerful golden core, many years out of practice. "Thank you for agreeing to hear us father, this will be a long story, the ones who can confirm it are Young Master's Wei and Jiang'' Xichen says, "both of them were very truthful when they shared this information with us and we believe them, we felt we should also share it with you in hopes of changing things for the better moving forward."
"I am wary of information from strangers; however, Fangmian himself was a good friend of Mine in our youth, for his sake I will hear what you have to say." Qingheng-Jun tells them, before adding "However I will be wanting to speak with these Young Master's myself before making any judgements."
"That is Fair, Wei Ying would be happy to speak with Fuqin." Lan Zhan says, Xichen notes with some amusement their father's raised eyebrow at Wangji's way of calling Young Master Wei.
"A-Ying cares deeply for all that goes on in Gusu and YunMeng, he's helped me with crafting defensive arrays these past few weeks." Xichen tells their father with a nod to Wangji, "You will understand when we've told you everything." Xichen pulls a copy of Jiang Wanyin's event timeline out of his sleeve. "Let us begin the explanation of how this started."
"Please do." Qingheng-Jun says, looking at the paper scroll Xichen had taken out of his sleeve.
"It apparently started a few weeks ago when they woke up here from their timeline." Xichen begins, Xichen, unsurprisingly, does the majority of the talking, with Lan Zhan occasionally jumping in with a few details. They get to the attack on Lotus Pier before Qingheng-Jun stops them.
"So you're telling me that Gusu was attacked because of our ranking 1st in the archery contest?" Qingheng-Jun asks, "How far has Ruohan fallen to do such a thing."
"I do not pretend to know Fuqin, however he has already driven the water born abyss into Caiyi's waters" Xichen tells him before continuing on, telling him how Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying had barely escaped and of Fengmian and Yu's deaths. It's late into the night when they arrive at the portion about the events at nevernight and early morning before they reach Wei Ying's resurrection as Mo Xuanyu. By the time they finish their story they can see the concern on their fathers' features. Qingheng-Jun has gone pale, "A-Ying has already moved to make changes in this timeline, as has Jiang Wanyin, Fuqin." Xichen closes.
"Wei Ying has made friends with Young Master Jin, he has no intention of watching the previous timelines events come again." Lan Zhan adds, "Wanyin is currently working on fixing things at Lotus Pier." he says.
"You are asking me to leave seclusion, so that I can help in preparing for the war?" Qingheng-Jun surmises, he after all is more experienced than either of his sons.
"Yes Fuqin." Xichen says.
"You have punished yourself long enough." Lan Zhan says, Xichen looks at him in surprise.
"Perhaps that is true." Qingheng-Jun sighs, "But there are somethings which no amount of regret can ever make right."
"Then perhaps it's time to let them scar." Xichen says, "Let them be reminders of why you must change, that is, I feel, what mother would want."
"Allow me to think alone for a while." Qingheng-Jun asks, "I will summon my brother and talk to the elders at the ringing of the bells, until then, retire for the time being."
"Yes father." Xichen agrees, he gets up to leave, and Qingheng-Jun speaks before Wangji can follow him.
"Is it true that you and Young Master Wei are courting?" Qingheng-Jun's tone is gentle but firm, "I had heard that you were in a relationship from my brother however..." Lan Qiren's dislike of Wei Ying makes believing his account hard.
"Mn. Courting, Shufu will not accept it however." Lan Zhan confirms, "Shufu said Wei Ying is a bad influence. But Shufu doesn't know Wei Ying."
"And you do?" QingHeng-Jun asks, "You certainly call him in a familiar way. As does Xichen"
"Mn." Lan Zhan responds, "Wei Ying is honest and kind, he makes mischief, but is not mean spirited, Wei Ying is very affectionate, loves deeply, very loyal." Xichen has stopped in the door, he muses that this is the most talking he's heard Wangji do in years, of course it would have to do with his beloved.
"I would like to meet this Young Master." Qingheng-Jun tells Lan Zhan.
"Wei Ying would also like to meet Fuqin." Lan Zhan tells him, it's true, Wei Ying has expressed such an interest on several occasions.
Wei Wuxian P.O.V
The next morning when Wei Wuxian and Nie Huaisang wake up, it's Jin Zixuan and Luo Qingyang shaking them awake. "Wuxian, wake up idiot! Do you really want Qiren to kill you!?" Zixuan barks at Wei Wuxian, shaking his shoulder roughly, "Come on, we're all gonna be late for class!"
"Wha- Oh... Mornin' Peacock.." Wei Wuxian mumbles sleepily, he and Huaisang had ended up chatting late into the night. Wei Wuxian had admitted to him about the coming from a different timeline thing, to his surprise Huaisang had said that he'd 'figured there was something going on' after Jiang Cheng mentioned Wei Wuxian having feelings for Lan Zhan. Huaisang had stated bluntly 'he never would have put 2 and 2 together before... Wei Wuxian had to admit that was accurate.
"Morning, get your hair up, it's 15 minutes before classes start!" Zixuan tells him shortly, "If I'm late to class, I'm going to punch you."
"Aiya- so violent!" Wei Wuxian whines, but forces himself to get moving. "Why didn't you come get us earlier! We won't even have time for breakfast!" He fusses as he grabs a brush off the dresser and starts hurriedly running it through his hair.
"MianMian had to come wake me up, I guess I stayed up too late studying..." Zixuan admits, "Then we got to the dining pavilion and you both weren't there, and none of the Qinghe disciples had seen Huaisang last night, so."
"We figured he'd be here with you, probably getting his details." Luo Qingyang snorts, wrinkling her nose. "You guys haven't heard what's going on today yet." She adds with excitement, "Qingheng-Jun is coming out of seclusion! He's taking back over as Sect Leader!" Wei Wuxian fumbles and nearly drops his hair ribbon hearing this, Lan Zhan and Xichen-ge were successful in talking to their father then... that's good, it's another directional change from last time.
"Maybe he will accept me and Er-gege courting" Wei Wuxian voices, hopeful but nervous, he was lucky his uncle and aunt accepted it without argument. He knows that cut-sleeves aren't widely accepted, and that there will likely be a lot of resistance to his and Lan Zhan's relationship all around, there had been even when they were older.
"I don't see why he wouldn't Wei-xiong, he has no ground to judge you based on his own marriage." Huaisang tells Wei Wuxian, it's true that Qingheng-Jun's own marriage was considered highly controversial among the sects but Wei Wuxian doesn't want his decision to ride on that alone.
"You're loud and annoying but I don't see anything to dislike." Zixuan says sticking his tongue out at Wei Wuxian in a manner that is truly, just like Jin Ling.
"Says the one who keeps choosing to hang out with me." Wei Wuxian points out teasing, he finishes brushing his hair out and ties it up in his normal high ponytail. He then throws his brush to Huaisang, who follows suit, brushing his hair and throwing it up into a stick bun.
"Let's go, maybe we can grab a mantou or something from the dining pavilion." Huaisang says hopefully, they do have those in the cloud recesses though they are blander and not nearly as heavily seasoned or as rich as the food from lotus pier... better than nothing though, Wei Wuxian agrees.
They end up being halfway to the class building when the bell begins for classes to start, they end up having to run to get to class in time. Thankfully it seems that no one is paying attention, because they aren't called out on it. Instead, Wei Wuxian sits down at what has become his spot across the room from Lan Zhan, only to have Qiren tell him to move back to his old spot... He's understandably confused. "Are you sure, I thought you said that you wanted me to stay away from him."
"I would have preferred that, yes, however my brother and nephews have made it very clear that won't be happening." Qiren sighs, still looking annoyed. "Now move before classes commence, Young Master Wei." Wei Wuxian doesn't need to be told twice, he's much happier to be sitting behind his Er-gege thank you!
"Good Morning Lan Zhan!" Wei Wuxian says quietly as he sits down behind his future husband.
"Mn. Morning Wei Ying." Lan Zhan returns, glancing back at him, "Fuqin wants to meet Wei Ying."
"He does!?" Wei Wuxian gasps, barely managing to keep his volume down.
"Mn. After class." Lan Zhan informs, then reading Wei Wuxian's apparent nerves adds "don't be nervous."
"How can I be anything else!" Wei Wuxian whines, "What if I say the wrong thing!"
"Wei Ying will be fine." Lan Zhan tells him, "Wei Ying is amazing, Fuqin will like him."
"And what if he doesn't." Wei Wuxian argues, "I- What if he hates me..." trailing off his tone trembling.
"Will leave with Wei Ying." Lan Zhan promises, "Wei Ying matters most." Wei Wuxians feels his face heat up, how can he possibly belong with someone as amazing as Lan Zhan.
"Aiya, warn me before you say such things! I'll die of shock!" Wei Wuxian whines in embarrassment... yes, he definitely doesn't deserve his Er-gege..
"Mn." Lan Zhan says, but Wei Wuxian knows, he definitely won't warn him, he never will... and some part of him is grateful for such surprises, even if they make him feel like his heart is about to burst. At length, Qiren coughs, and they both go silent, Wei Wuxian swears he can feel half the disciples staring at them. Wei Wuxian awkwardly smiles, straightens himself in his seat and focuses on the front of the class, he's only too glad when Qiren goes back to his monotonous droning and the attention slowly turns back to the lesson.
After class ends, Wei Wuxian waits while Lan Zhan finishes helping his uncle with something. Huaisang asks if he wants to go down the mountain but Wei Wuxian tells him Lan Zhan was going to take him to meet his father. "Good luck Wei-xiong, I'll bring some emperor's smile to your guest house later! Tell me how it went." Huaisang says, hiding his mouth from view with a carefully placed fan.
"Shoo, don't get me in trouble! I'll see you later" Wei Wuxian tells him teasingly.
"I think you do a good enough job on your own Wei-xiong" Huaisang jokes back.
"Aiya, true!" Wei Wuxian groans, "I'm always doing something someone doesn't like, I think I'd still manage to get in trouble in my sleep."
"That's because you nap in class! Wei-xiong I wouldn't have the guts..." Huaisang says with mild exasperation.
"If he didn't speak so monotonously, I might be able to stay awake!" Wei Wuxian argues. "Have fun."
"I plan on it!" Huaisang giggles, "I wonder who it will be this time" he hums walking away, he's out of earshot before what he said processes and Wei Wuxian chokes on his own saliva, good grief Huaisang... and people call HIM shameless.
Lan Zhan finally joins him outside a few minutes later, having finished whatever it was his uncle needed help with. Wei Wuxian has just barely managed to pull his composure back to an accept-able level after being left wondering how anyone could be as thick of face as Huaisang. "Qiren doesn't need your help anymore?"
"Finished." Lan Zhan confirms, "Wei Ying is ready?"
"Yes." Wei Wuxian says, his voice trembles in-spite of his effort to keep it steady, damn it...
"Wei Ying will be fine." Lan Zhan reassures him for the third time that day. Wei Wuxian leans his head on Lan Zhan's chest and is delighted when Lan Zhan hugs him gently.
"I know you think so, I can't help being afraid though." Wei Wuxian sighs, "I want things to go well so badly Er-gege." Lan Zhan squeezes him closer gently before releasing his grip on him and pulling away.
"Lets go." Lan Zhan says, and Wei Wuxian nods, grabbing his hand like a life line, it's amazing how much better he feels when Lan Zhan threads his fingers through Wei Wuxian's own and squeezes them gently. They walk to the main residence like that.
Qingheng-Jun is very much an older, albeit sadder looking, reflection of Lan Zhan, it gives Wei Wuxian a feeling of deja vu. He reminds Wei Wuxian of his first encounter with Lan Zhan after being reborn, the sadness he'd been blind to at first, but, after realizing its existence, had been unable to forget.
"Wangji, I had expected to see you after classes ended." Qingheng-Jun tells his son, wanting an explanation for why they were late no doubt.
"Apologies." Lan Zhan says, "Shufu needed help preparing for the next class, it took longer than expected Fuqin"
"Ah, I could have guessed as much." Qingheng-Jun responds, "I'm sure Qiren-ge appreciated having your help." smiling at his son, though it never reaches his intensely sad eyes. Wei Wuxian thinks he must still miss Lan Furen very badly, he can't imagine how he'd feel if something happened to Lan Zhan... he doesn't want to. "This must be Young Master Wei; I've heard much about you." Qingheng-Jun tells Wei Wuxian, turning his attention to greeting him with a smile.
"None of it good, I'm sure." Wei Wuxian admits sheepishly, looking at Lan Zhan for support.
"It's a mixture I will admit, but one can never trust Qiren to hide his personal feelings." Qingheng-Jun offers, apologetically. "Or to temper his prejudices for that matter. Come in." he says with a flourish towards the main room of the residence.
Just like all the other buildings in Gusu, Qingheng-Jun's residence is predominately white, personal possessions are few and far between. They sit down at the low table and Qingheng-Jun signals to a servant to bring them tea. After the servant leaves, Qingheng-Jun finally speaks. "Xichen and Wangji were telling me you came from the future." Wei Wuxian feels more than a little exposed at this comment, he knew of course that Lan Zhan and Lan Xichen were going to tell their father. Lan Zhan had asked him for permission since it was really his and Jiang Cheng's story to tell, he'd agreed. He just wasn't expecting to be asked this soon.
"I did, or rather, My memories did..." Wei Wuxian tells him, "A-Cheng is in the same situation." Being honest is the best option in this situation, right? He feels Lan Zhan's hand nudge him under the table in silent support.
"I see." Qingheng-Jun says, "I'm sorry if I'm making you uncomfortable, I simply have a hard time believing such a story." He explains, "I have questions, if you don't mind answering."
"O-of course not! I think I would think someone was crazy if they told me they were from the future." Wei Wuxian says with a soft laugh, his trembling gives away his nervous energy however.
"In our present timeline, where is the threat from yours? I don't mean Ruohan." Qingheng-Jun asks, clarifying afterwards that he's not talking about the Wens.
"Meng Yao is currently a disciple of QingHe Nie." Wei Wuxian answers quickly, "He should have already been noticed by Sect Leader Nie, who should feel sorry for him right now because he's being bullied." He remembers the drama he'd overheard from the other sects during the war, among them how fast Nie Mingjue had grown distrustful of Meng Yao.
"I'm assuming Meng Yao and Jin Guangyao are the same person?"
"Yes Sir." Wei Wuxian responds, "He was given recognition by Sect Leader Jin after the war ended." as Wei Wuxian says this, the servant re-enters the room and pours the tea for them, he thanks her quietly. Qingheng-Jun and Lan Zhan also thank her, before Qingheng-Jun dismisses her from the room.
"Were there signs beforehand that he could go off the deep end?" Qingheng-Jun asks,
"At the start of the war, Meng Yao was kicked out of Qinghe because he killed a guard he'd been arguing with and tried to pin it on the Wen's" Wei Wuxian says, "he then proceeded to head for QiShan on his own, in hopes of joining them." he adds, pausing, "This is actually when he met Xichen who had run when Gusu was burned."
"What did he want in QiShan?"
"He used the murder of the guard as proof of loyalty to the Wens." Wei Wuxian says, then elaborates "over the next few months he worked his way up through the ranks and sent information to Xichen that helped us to win the war." he debates about whether or not to tell Qingheng-Jun about Meng Yao's killing a platoon of men from QingHe infront of Sect Leader Nie after he'd been captured by Ruohan, eventually though he decides he should. The concern on Qingheng-Jun's face when he hears of this tells him he's made the right choice.
"I will keep this information in mind." Qingheng-Jun says, "As another question, I was told you gave your core to Young Master Jiang. How? What made you feel like you needed to do such a thing?" Wei Wuxian sighs when he hears this question, he can almost feel the numbing cold he'd felt after it was removed.
"A-Cheng has always lived for his cultivation, His core was destroyed by Wen Zhuliu not long after my A-Yi and Bobo were killed." Wei Wuxian begins, adding shakily "I knew I would be fine without it, and I promised A-Yi I would protect him." He leans against Lan Zhan for a moment, needing to be supported physically for a moment. At length he continues, "Wen Ning rescued us when I sneaked back into lotus pier, he and his sister took care of us and it was Wen Qing who performed the surgery for me."
"Why did they help you?" Qingheng-Jun asks, "Why was she willing to do such a thing?"
"I befriended Wen Ning during the archery tournament, he had trouble making friends... he said he asked to be sent to lotus pier when he heard of the attack, he was worried about me and Jiang Cheng." Wei Wuxian explains thoughtfully, "That was also why Wen Qing helped us, but she agreed to help with the surgery she had theorized about, based on the fact that she would have done the same for her brother." He finishes. Wei Wuxian notices that Qingheng-Jun looks considerably softer as he finishes explaining this, maybe because he also understands as a sibling.
"This is the same Wen Ning, who became the fierce corpse known as the ghost general?" Qingheng-Jun's tone is less drilling now, more pitying.
"Yes." Wei Wuxian responds, his voice becoming icy at the memory, "He was killed trying to protect his cousin in the Jin Sect's labor camp after the war." he notices the way Lan Zhan's father pales at his, admittedly, angry tone... He can't help feeling rage over it; however, he still remembers how awful that scene had been... Still doesn't regret killing the Jin Sect Guards. He digs his nails into his robes.
"I'm sorry to bring up such a terrible memory." Qingheng-Jun apologizes.
"I'm the one who should apologize, it wasn't your fault, no one knew what the Jin's were doing, and once we did, it was too late." Wei Wuxian responds, apologetically. "Jin sect had become corrupt and used their wealth to buy the loyalty of those who were worst off from the war... no one could risk standing up to them for a handful of war prisoners." he doesn't blame Jiang Cheng for casting him out at that time. Lotus Pier had been burned to ash, most of their people were dead or injured, he couldn't risk incurring the wrath of LanLing Jin. Wei Wuxian had known and that was why he'd left on his own, he couldn't put more pressure on his brother.
"We will have to make sure that it doesn't happen this time then." Qingheng-Jun says, his tone lighter now, "You have answered my questions about that matter. I must admit, you did better than I expected you to." He jokes, "I can see now that you have told the truth."
"Thank you for trusting me. Qingheng-Jun" Wei Wuxian bows forward respectfully in his seated position.
"Lan Liangfa is fine, you came here to ask for permission to court my son, did you not?" Qingheng-Jun says. He seems amused by the way Wei Wuxian's cheeks heat up at this reminder.
"Then you should also call me Wei Ying." Wei Wuxian knows it's a little strange to ask to be called by your birth name, but he's always preferred it. It makes him feel included. only Yanli is allowed to call him A-Xian.
The visit goes on, QingHeng-Jun, no... Lan Liangfa asks about him, wanting to know about his childhood at lotus pier, about his life on the streets before. Wei Wuxian is startled when Liangfa reveals that he knew both Wei Cangse and Cangse Sanren. "You knew my parents?" Wei Wuxian's excitement is obvious in his tone.
Liangfa smiles, "We attended class together, You're mother was very much like you."
"So I keep hearing, I don't really remember either of them though." Wei Wuxian tells Liangfa, "For a long time my A-Yi and Bobo wouldn't talk about them at all."
"That makes sense unfortunately, Yu Ziyuan was never fond of Cangse Sanren." Liangfa says with a sigh, "Wei Cangse might have been Fengmian's dear friend, but he probably doesn't want to upset her."
"A-Yi listens to the rumors too much, Bobo ignores them too much." Wei Wuxian admits, "I just wish they were better at listening to each other, because I know Bobo loves A-Yi."
"Maybe I can talk to him, after all, you're going to need their permission as well." Liangfa tells him.
"Bobo has already given his! But I still need to ask A-Yi, I don't think she will refuse though, she's already made some… scandalous comments." Wei Wuxian laughingly tells Liangfa, Lan Zhan shifts next to him.
"Is that so?" Liangfa asks, raising an eyebrow, "I'm going to guess it has something to do with my brother."
"Mn." Lan Zhan speaks up, looking awkwardly down. "Yu Furen is rather... unorthodox."
"I will be interested to see what she has to say in person then." Liangfa laughs lightly. The afternoon winds down, they talk to Sect Leader Lan for another hour, he tells Wuxian everything he remembers about his parents and their days as students. At length though he says goodbye to the boys when Xichen comes looking for Wangji, apparently needing help with something. Wei Wuxian walks down to a juncture in the path with them before bidding them goodbye and heading back to his guest residence.
Unsurprisingly he ends up spending the night chatting and drinking with Huaisang. Unexpectedly they are joined by Zixuan, who, much to Wei Wuxian's surprise, was actually worried about his meeting Sect Leader Lan, and wanted to be sure he was okay.
The following weeks pass quickly by, and before Wei Wuxian knows it, they are getting ready to leave for YunMeng Jiang. Wei Wuxian's stomach flips excitedly as they meet at the docks, for the first time in 23 years he's going to see his Aunt and sister!
Jiang Cheng P.O.V
Jiang Cheng had been surprised when he'd heard from Wei Ying that his brother considered both Zixuan and Huaisang to be friends now. His brother had also said that a girl from one of the smaller clans in jin sect, Luo Qingyang, had also joined their little group... Leave it to Wei Ying to make friends with the one person besides Wangji who had stuck up for him last time.
The next letter is heralded by the announcement that the Sect Leader of Gusu Lan has left seclusion. Wei Ying writes that he has met with Sect Leader Lan and has gotten his permission to officially court the 2nd jade... "Finally, it's not like Qiren could keep them apart anyway..." Jiang Cheng thinks, rolling his eyes. The next line makes him take the letter to his parents so that they can prepare; However, as Wei Ying has written that Sect Leader Lan and his sons will be coming to lotus pier with him when classes end.
"Fuqin, A-Niang, A-Ying wrote that Sect Leader Lan and the twin jades will be coming with him when classes end." Jiang Cheng says as he walks into his father's office, Fengmian and Yu had been looking over building plans and trying to determine the best points for setting up defense arrays. Both look up at their son when he enters.
"All three!? You're sure A-Cheng?" Fengmian asks, taking the letter from his son. He notices that his mother looks surprised by this revelation as well.
"Yes Fuqin." Jiang Cheng tells his father, "He also said he's made friends with Zixuan A-Niang." he sees his mother smile at this, clearly thinking 'maybe we can fix the marriage arrangement yet'.
Fengmian reads the letter with interest before handing it to Yu, who makes a remark of "I can finally ask him some important questions." Jiang Cheng snorts at this, he can also hear his father mumble something about 'what happened to worrying about our image.' Yu Ziyuan tersely responds, "I AM thinking about our image. What will people say if we let our Zhizi be locked away like Lan Furen?"
"Lan Wangji would never allow such a thing A-Niang." Jiang Cheng reaffirms. "You will see that when you meet him, I might not like him, but he's good to A-Ying." he can admit that while he dislikes the younger Lan heir... (and he's certainly glad that he isn't being made to marry him) He does recognize the love and respect Lan Wangji treats his brother with. "In the other timeline, he took 33 lashes of the discipline whip for protecting Wei Ying from his own sects' elders."
"How on earth did he survive such an ordeal!?" Yu Ziyuan gasps, her face going white as a sheet. "One lash of the whip is enough to cripple most people." Fengmian nods in agreement at this statement.
"2nd Young Master Lan must be extremely strong, to have survived such a punishment." Fengmian agrees solemnly, "I can't believe even Qiren would be so harsh with his own Zhizi."
"The elders didn't give him much of an option, Lan Wangji killed a couple of them and badly injured others." Jiang Cheng explains, "Qiren was told to either execute him or cripple him." he adds grimly, "Even then, he chose to beat him so viciously to prevent Wangji from killing himself after Wei Ying died."
"Even in such a scenario, it would have been kinder to offer him support through it." Fengmian says, "I'm sure 2nd Young Master Lan and Qiren's relationship suffered badly afterwards." Jiang Cheng nods in response, he knows from Wei Ying that Lan Wangji had harbored resentment towards his uncle.
"Qiren has always been dense when it comes to emotions, no wonder his Zhizi struggles with communication." Yu Ziyuan comments, "he was lucky his idea of punishment didn't kill his Zhizi."
"Thank you for telling us this, A-Cheng." Fengmian tells his son, "This confirms that our A-Ying will be safe and loved with his 2nd Jade. We can rest easier"
It feels like no time at all before they are all preparing for the arrival of their guests and the return of Wei Ying. Yanli gets some of the other girls to help her prepare Wei Ying's favorite meal, and Jiang Cheng pushes their disciples through training so that everyone can have a break when he arrives.
The moment the boats come into view Jiang Cheng, his sister and their parents make their way to the docks to greet their guests, and welcome their head disciple home. Jiang Cheng sees his brother's eyes fill with tears the moment he spots them, and remembers his own feelings when he first returned.
He allows Yanli to brush past him as the boat docks; she and Wei Ying have always had a special bond. In the past Jiang Cheng had felt like he was in last place even with his own sister, but now he realizes that jealousy was misplaced... Yanli and Wei Ying's bond is more that of a mother and child than that of siblings he realizes as he watches the way his brother throws himself into Yanli's arms like a child. Moving forward he places his hand on Wei Ying's head, which is still buried in Yanli's neck. "Welcome home, idiot." He teases, intending to sound snarky but failing miserably at the realization of how long it's been since they were all together. "great, now I'm about to start crying..." he groans mentally feeling his eyes sting.
"A-Xian, oh dear, you really are crying a lot..." Yanli coos, pushing Wei Ying off her only to gently wipe his tears with her sleeve.
"Shijie, I missed you soooo much..." Wei Ying sobs, his eyes are red from crying, his nose clearly stuffed up. He looks like a little kid, Jiang Cheng muses.
"I missed you too A-Xian, A-Cheng has told me about everything, A-Die and A-Niang as well." Yanli tells Wei Ying, "Now, are you going to introduce everyone?" She asks patiently. Wei Ying nods, however before he can say anything, Qingheng-Jun speaks.
"It's been a long time since I've been out of Gusu, Fengmian." Qingheng-Jun greets Jiang Fengmian in a familiar and warm way.
"Too long, we have some catching up to do." Fengmian agrees, "The last time you were outside of Gusu, I wasn't much older than A-Li."
"Indeed, It seems fitting that it's our children that bring me all this way." Qingheng-Jun turns his attention to Yanli and Jiang Cheng next. "You must be Wanyin and Yanli, A-Ying's told me a lot about you."
"Our A-Xian enjoyed his time in Gusu, and I've been looking forward to meeting you, Sect Leader Lan." Yanli greets pleasantly... Jiang Cheng envies how easily his sister can get along with others, he still has to consciously decide to be pleasant.
"Thank you for taking care of my Tang-ge Sect Leader Lan." Jiang Cheng tells Qingheng-Jun, "Welcome to Lotus Pier." Qingheng-Jun smiles at them in response.
"I had been looking forward to meeting you Jiang-Guniang." Xichen bows politely, "I'm Zewu-Jun, however Xichen is fine." He says introducing himself, he then gestures to His brother, "My Didi is the reason we came with A-Ying."
"This one's title is Hanguang-Jun, courtesy name is Wangji." Lan Wangji introduces himself, "Prefer to be called Lan Zhan."
"So that is why you glare at me when I call you Wangji..." Jiang Cheng says, "I also prefer Jiang Cheng." he admits, apparently, they have been annoying each-other for years, who knew. He notes the acknowledgement Lan Zhan gives him in the form of a nod... right then, this is something else he can fix. Of course, he also had called Lan Zhan by his courtesy name because Xichen did, but now that he thinks about it, no one outside of his brother, father and uncle calls him that. "So like Wei Ying only allowing A-Li to call him A-Xian."
"Mn. Will remember it." Lan Zhan says.
"It's good to finally meet all of you" Yanli bows ever polite, before adding a mildly threatening "I would like to ask you a few questions later A-Zhan, since you've expressed interest in our A-Xian.", Jiang Cheng tries not to snort... Most people think that Yanli is sweet and naive, they forget that she is Yu Ziyuan's daughter. Lan Zhan, notably, doesn't look worried though... smug bastard. Xichen and Qingheng-Jun both look more amused than worried. "I'm sure A-Cheng and A-Xian would love to show you around Lotus pier later as well." Yanli adds. "I was also wondering if I could ask you about musical cultivation, I want to try to get stronger before the war." This blind sides Jiang Cheng, and judging by his parents' expressions she hadn't spoken to them about it either.
"I would very much enjoy that, Young Mistress Jiang." Xichen responds, returning Yanli's bow. "Perhaps you can join us for the tour later." he suggests with a warm smile.
"I shall then." Yanli says with a smile. "I'm sure everyone must be tired from the trip, My brother can show you to the guest rooms that have been prepared." She continues after a moment's pause, "I will take my leave, I have dinner to finish prepping." She says with a graceful bow. Wei Ying lights up at the mention of food, if Yanli is cooking, naturally his favorite meal will be on the menu.
"Shijie makes the best lotus and pork rib soup!" Jiang Cheng can almost hear Wei Ying saying, just by looking at his face. Lan Zhan is looking at Wei Ying like he is the most beautiful person on earth, and Jiang Cheng definitely isn't looking forward to playing chaperon with that. Jiang Cheng is more than grateful when his mother suggests to Wei Ying that he should go unpack his things and greet the other disciples.
Jiang Cheng shows the twin jades to their guest rooms, however Fengmian and Sect Leader Lan are lost in conversation, and Fengmian tells him he will show him to his room himself later. It's a strange feeling, having his parents have company... he can't remember the last time there was a guest at lotus pier besides Nie Huaisang, and that brat invited himself every summer after meeting Wei Ying at a conference.
Jiang Yanli P.O.V
Yanli was aware that something had changed the moment that her father returned from the first incident at Gusu Lan. When she'd heard him speak of how shaken her brother had been, she'd known there had to be something going on. While she knew that her brother cared about Wei Ying, A-Cheng had never been as attached to him as she was. Additionally, he definitely wouldn't have realized on his own that Wei Ying's drowning attempt the year before was actually a suicide attempt. She loved her brother, but he was dense when it came to emotions.
She wasn't surprised either, when she got the truth out of him. It made sense with the way he'd changed, of course he'd want to fix things after living through such a nightmare. She determined after hearing everything that if they wanted to fix everything, she needed to get stronger herself as well. She would protect her family and their future with everything she had.
When their guests arrived and everyone had been situated, Yanli had gone back to the kitchens. After all, tonight was a big occasion, this was the first time Wei Ying would be back in lotus pier in years after all. She was having his favorite foods prepared, including two large pots of his favorite soup, one made vegetarian for their guests, the other made the way her A-Xian was used to. When everything had been prepared, she left the soup to cook, giving one of the servant's instructions, and went to find her brother.
She wasn't surprised when she found Wei Ying in his room, he'd seemed overwhelmed earlier. She'd known when she left that he probably needed a moment to take everything in. "A-Xian?" She asks, smiling when he shoots up off his bed.
"Shijie!" Wei Ying bounces into a sitting position with his legs tucked under him.
"I thought you would be here." She chuckles, "You seemed like you were struggling earlier."
"I'm okay now." Wei Ying assures, "It's just been soo long Shijie, I missed everyone so much and now your all here and I didn't even greet everyone properly."
"It's fine, A-Xian has been through a lot up-till now." Yanli says gently, "no one will judge you for needing a moment." walking over to the bed she hugs him close.
"I should still have greeted A-Yi and Bobo." Wei Ying sighs, "I really missed you Shijie..."
"I know A-Xian." Yanli soothes, "You can make up for earlier at dinner." she offers. "How about you tell me how your life with A-Zhan was?" They talk for a while, Wei Ying tells her about his life with Lan Zhan in the other timeline, about his adopted son, Sizhui, and about her son, Jin Ling. She couldn't wait to meet the sweet, noble and studious boy her brother described Sizhui as. His description of Jin Ling as a kind but spoiled brat who followed his son around like a lost puppy amused her. It made her wonder how Zixuan would react to his son, and reminded her of how their engagement had been called off. A-Xian had reassured her that they would still eventually marry, the peacock (as he called Zixuan) eventually regretting his decision on his own.
It had surprised her to learn that Zixuan had eventually fallen in love with her, it had simply taken time. And while she knows that it ended in tragedy before, she can't help but feel excited at the prospect of a happy future.
Yanli notices that the Lans seem a little out of their comfort zone at dinner, Xichen tells her it's because meals in Gusu are silent, which she finds odd. Sect leader Lan tells them that he thinks he needs to work on easing the rules a bit in Gusu, 2000 rules is a lot for anyone to be expected to remember and he doesn't want his future son in law to feel trapped. This consideration makes Yanli happy, it sounds like her brother will be happy in Gusu.
Afterwards Wei Ying grabs Lan Zhan and animatedly declares it's time he shows him around lotus pier, the fact Lan Zhan allows himself to be dragged around makes Yanli laugh... yes, he is definitely besotted with her A-Xian. Xichen is also amused by the interaction, but Yanli notices something else flicker across Jiang Cheng's face... she hopes that wasn't what she thinks it is, but it's gone in an instant and she has no proof.
"Shall we then?" Xichen asks,
"Why don't we all go, it's lovely weather." Yu Ziyuan speaks up, smiling, Yanli has noticed her mother looks much happier lately, she's grateful for that. They start with the main property, training grounds, docks and ancestral hall, they will show them around the town tomorrow.
As they walk along the docks Xichen speaks up, "What is it you wanted to know about musical cultivation?"
"I was wondering if it might be a better fit for me than a sword." Yanli begins, "I have a weak body as a result of illness when I was younger, and sword training is hard and dangerous for my health." She explains.
"It still requires training and focus, but it's certainly not as taxing as sword cultivation." Xichen confirms.
"How about fan cultivation?" Wei Ying suggests, popping into their conversation.
"That could work as well." Xichen agrees, "I could also see if Huaisang was interested, it might calm the tension between him and Da-ge."
"It would also give me someone to practice with!" Yanli agrees, this could definitely work, the most important thing to her is that she learns some way of protecting herself. She wants to be of use to her family, not a burden.
"I can ask Sang-ge later! We've been exchanging messages for a long time." Wei Ying volunteers.
"Of course you have." Jiang Cheng snorts, rolling his eyes, Yanli giggles, now they know why Huaisang has randomly invited himself to stay for weeks at a time.
"He needs someone to vent to! Sect Leader Nie isn't... easy to live with." Wei Ying argues, clearly trying to word his lines carefully, after all Xichen and Mingjue are good friends.
"He's under a lot of stress." Xichen says, but Yanli can see he agrees with Wei Ying on that fact.
"It would help if his brother didn't dodge training constantly." Jiang Cheng tells Wei Ying, "I'd be stressed out too if you kept vanishing to buy clothes and art scrolls." he adds, Yanli can't help laughing at the insulted noise Wei Ying makes in response. "as it is, you ditch to catch fish and steal lotus pods."
"A-Li, ChengCheng is teasing me!" Wei Ying whines, throwing himself at Jiang Cheng who side steps, resulting in Wei Ying landing belly down on the dock. The scene is so familiar to Yanli she doesn't even flinch at the impact.
"Who the fuck is 'ChengCheng'!" Jiang Cheng snaps at him, hand balled into a fist in annoyance.
"Jiang Cheng! Language!" Yu Ziyuan corrects, looking exasperated with her son and nephew. Jiang Cheng apologizes but Yanli knows it will happen again and so does their mother.
"A-Cheng is 'ChengCheng'" Wei Ying reiterates from the floor of the dock, clearly not in the mood to behave Yanli notes, but she will give in this time...
"How old are you XianXian?" Yanli teases, if she's feeding into his childishness who cares, everyone here is either family or soon to be family. She might as well let them see what they're getting themselves into.
"XianXian is three!" Wei Ying announces without missing a beat.
"More like one!" Yanli says, bending down she taps his nose. "Be a good boy XianXian."
"Mhmm'kay XianXian will be good for Shijie!" Wei Ying promises, looking serious, Yanli chuckles.. she can see Xichen trying hard not to laugh at Wei Yings antics, Lan Zhan also looks amused... it's the most facial expression she's seen on his face thus far.