Third Person POV
Lanling Jin Sect: Koi Tower
As a child born into a Clan Leader's lineage, Wuxian endured the painful reality of being rejected and unrecognized by his own father.
The absence of paternal love and acceptance haunted him, fueling a deep-seated jealousy that lingered within his heart.
To be the son of Jin Guangshan was a curse, as he was never acknowledged, never treated as a true son.
This profound resentment towards his father shaped Wuxian into the feared and enigmatic Yiling Patriarch that the world trembled.
In the Jin Sect, chaos ensued as the news of Jin Guangshan's rebellious son's return spread among the disciples.
Every disciple quivered, their hearts filled with trepidation at the mere mention of his name.
Meanwhile, Jin Guangshan, in the meeting room, conversed with his trusted assassins, outlining his plans to successfully eliminate the Chief Cultivator.
Suddenly, a disciple rushed towards him, breathless and alarmed, informing him of Wuxian's unexpected arrival within the walls of Jin Sect.
Without wasting a moment, Jin Guangshan hurriedly made his way to the throne room of the Koi Tower, where Wuxian sat upon his throne with an air of defiance.
Confusion and curiosity mingled in Jin Guangshan's eyes as he addressed his estranged son.
"What are you doing here?" Jin Guangshan demanded, his voice laced with a mix of surprise and apprehension.
Wuxian met his father's gaze, his eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and defiance. He wanted answers, to confirm the rumors that had reached him.
Wuxian, calm and composed, answered with a hint of mischief in his voice, wanting to confirm something. " I came to confirm something. Someone informed me that you've been seeking for me. Is that true?" he inquired, his gaze fixed on Jin Guangshan.
Attempting to mask his true intentions with deceit, words dripping with false affection, he spoke "I just wanted to see you, my son," there's a hint of longing in his voice. "It has been too long since you decided to leave the Jin sect. I have missed you."
Wuxian scoffed, his sharp intuition piercing through the falsehoods. He did not believe his father's words and demanded the truth.
"Enough with the pretense," he retorted, his voice filled with a mix of defiance and weariness. "What is it that you truly want, Father?"
Jin Guangshan hesitates for a moment before answering, his voice tinged with a mix of greed and efficiency. " Fine then, What I need from you, is the Yin Iron that you possess in your Demon Slaughtering Cave," he reveals.
With a smirk, Wuxian chuckled, well aware that his father was already aware of his Yin Iron. ".. my Yin Hufu?" he questioned, his voice laced with a mix of curiosity and underlying contempt. "Why does Jin Guangshan desire it so desperately?"
Jin Guangshan's response carried a chilling promise, a hint of power within his words as he tried to strike a deal. "I promise you something in return... if only you would hand over your Yin Iron to me," he offered, his voice dripping with calculated charm.
"What is this promised favor you speak of?" Wuxian inquired, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of skepticism and anticipation.
Jin Guangshan hesitated for a moment, then spoke, promising Wuxian something in return for the Yin Iron. "If you give me the Yin Iron, I will grant you the inheritance that your brothers possess. I will acknowledge you as my son," he revealed, his words hanging in the air, laden with an unspoken agenda.
Silence hung in the air as Wuxian contemplated his father's offer. The weight of their shared history and the pain he had endured tugged at his heart. Yet, he knew that even in this delicate dance, he held the upper hand.
" Everything you desire, including Lan Wangji, will be yours." Jin Guangshan ended his words. Wuxian crossed his arms as he leaned back on the throne.
"How did you even find out about me and Wangji?" Wuxian questioned, his voice tinged with surprise and suspicion, seeking an explanation from his father.
Jin Guangshan, meeting his son's gaze with a shrewdness befitting a Clan Leader, replied, his voice laced with confidence, "A father knows more than you think, my son. It is my duty to be aware of the affairs of my household."
Wuxian's eyes narrowed, a mix of anger and curiosity filling his gaze.
Jin Guangshan met Wuxian's gaze, a calculating glint in his eyes. "Lan Wangji will be yours. I promise that Xuanyu will never know the truth," he replied, his words resonating with a mix of deceit and control.
With a wry smile, Wuxian posed the question that burned within him. "And what assurance do I have that you'll keep your promise, Father?" he inquired, his eyes locked onto Jin Guangshan's.
Wuxian took a deep breath, contemplating the decision before him. After a moment of reflection, he made up his mind.
With determination in his eyes, Wuxian approached his father, his gaze filled with a mix of resignation and defiance. "Fine," he said, his voice carrying a weight of reluctant acceptance.
Jin Guangshan raised an eyebrow, a hint of satisfaction flickering across his face. However, Wuxian's glare quickly extinguished any trace of triumph.
His eyes bore into Jin Guangshan, emanating a threatening aura that sent a shiver down the Clan Leader's spine.
" But on a condition,..Wangji is off-limits. He belongs to me," Wuxian stated firmly, his voice laced with a warning.
Jin Guangshan's expression faltered for a moment, realizing the intensity of Wuxian's determination. He nodded, a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. "Very well, I will respect your condition," he acquiesced, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation.
The tension in the room remained palpable as father and son locked eyes, their unspoken agreement hanging in the air.
Wuxian stood up from his Father's throne, turned away from his father, his gaze shifting towards the exit. "Father, etch this into your mind: any harm that befalls Wangji will not go unanswered," Wuxian warned, his voice carrying the weight of a silent promise.
Jin Guangshan watched Wuxian's retreating figure, a mix of emotions swirling within him.
He knew that he had made a deal with a formidable opponent, one who would not hesitate to protect what he held dear.
As Wuxian left the throne room, a sense of determination filled Clan Leader Jin's heart.
Left alone in the throne room, Jin Guangshan's eyes were drawn to the Yin Hufu resting on his throne.
The once-pulsating Resentment Energy within the artifact had begun to subside, its sinister power waning.
A sinister grin crept across Jin Guangshan's face as he reveled in the fading Resentment Energy.
The path to his grand plans for the Cultivation world was now clear, and he relished the prospects of executing his schemes with ruthless precision.
With the Yin Hufu under his control, he held the key to his ambitions, the power to shape the Cultivation world according to his desires.
His laughter then filled the grand chamber, tinged with malevolent satisfaction.
Oblivious to the darkness that loomed overhead.
Jiangnan Town
As the afternoon sun cast its warm glow upon Jiangnan, Xuanyu found himself in a humble inn, nestled comfortably within his rented room.
He had arrived before Wangji noticed his absence.
Lost in thought, Xuanyu sat perched by the window, silently analyzing the letter that had been delivered to him.
Its sender was none other than his uncle.
With furrowed brows, he absorbed the information written on the parchment, unaware of Wangji's approaching presence.
Lost in his own world, Xuanyu was startled when strong arms encircled him from behind.
Wangji, ever the observer, had silently made his way to Xuanyu's side, curiosity gleaming in his eyes.
"What are you reading, my love?" Wangji's voice whispered softly, his breath tickling against Xuanyu's ear.
Xuanyu's heart raced, realizing the need to hide the truth of the letter from Wangji.
He gasped, hastily folding the paper and concealing it within the depths of his robes.
He turned to face Wangji, his expression a mix of surprise and secretiveness.
"It's nothing, A-zhan," Xuanyu replied, a hint of evasiveness in his voice. "Just a letter from my uncle, filled with trivial matters."
Wangji's gaze searched Xuanyu's eyes, a flicker of concern evident in his own.
"A-Yu, you're not good at lying," Wangji stated, his words laden with a touch of amusement and concern.
He pulled Xuanyu closer to him, their bodies molded together, as he began placing gentle kisses on Xuanyu's exposed neck.
A shiver ran down Xuanyu's spine as Wangji's warm breath tickled his skin. His heart raced, the intensity of Wangji's proximity disarming him.
"Secrets aren't allowed in our relationship," Wangji whispered against Xuanyu's ear, his voice laden with both seriousness and desire. "Remember that, Angel."
The Next Day
Wangji and Xuanyu decided it was time to return to the tranquility of Cloud Recesses.
However, Wangji's mind was clouded with the rumors that had been circulating throughout the Cultivation world about Weiying.
He felt a pressing need to discuss these rumors with Weiying.
He wondered if Weiying was already aware of the whispers that were spreading like wildfire.
Xuanyu, on the other hand, remained unfazed by the rumors of a supposed relationship between his husband, Wangji, and Wuxian.
Jealousy was a rare emotion for Xuanyu, the Jade is aware about that.
Yet, deep down, Wangji couldn't help but hope that if the truth were to be revealed to Xuanyu one day, his beloved would still embrace him with love and understanding.
The fear of Xuanyu harboring resentment and departing from his side was the last thing Wangji desired.
With a heavy sigh, Wangji leaned in to plant a tender kiss on Xuanyu's forehead before he left their shared chamber, the Jingshi, to seek out his brother, XiChen. He needed to discuss the investigation he had asked XiChen to conduct.
Upon reaching the Hanshi, Wangji knocked on the door, calling out for his brother. The door opened almost instantly, revealing XiChen's welcoming figure.
"Wangji, come in. I didn't expect you this early. Where is the Second Young Mistress Lan?" XiChen inquired, moving towards his table and settling into his chair.
Wangji took a seat opposite his brother, his posture rigid. "A-yu is still asleep, Xiongzhang," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of concern.
"I'm sure your wife will come looking for you once he realizes you've left him alone in your chamber. Does he know you're here in the Hanshi?" XiChen asked, placing a cup of tea on the table in front of Wangji.
Wangji nodded, his gaze fixed on the steaming cup of tea. "He knows, even if I don't tell him. We've already passed the dual Cultivation, Xiongzhang. A-yu and I are connected to each other in ways beyond comprehension," he stated, his voice filled with a profound understanding of their bond.
XiChen chuckled softly. It was hard for him to believe the rumors about Wangji and Wei Wuxian when his brother is this so devoted to Xuanyu. Wangji's love for Xuanyu surpassed any words that could describe it. He had done everything in his power to win Xuanyu's heart, and now they were bound together. Xuanyu was the one Wangji truly desired, and no one else.
"You went to great lengths to assert your love and commitment to the person who holds your heart. I wish I had that kind of determination. If I did, perhaps I wouldn't have lost my own lover," XiChen said, a bittersweet smile on his face.
"Anyway, let us focus on the matter at hand. I must inform you that everything is in place. Our men are prepared and awaiting your signal to execute their mission," XiChen informed his younger brother.
"Very well. Ensure that Uncle and Grandmaster Lan Yi remain unaware of our plans. I do not want any interference, Xiongzhang," Wangji responded, his face remaining stoic and expressionless, his mind focused on the task ahead.
XiChen smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Rest assured, they have no inkling of our intentions... brother. I guarantee it. Besides, even if they were aware, they hold no power to impede your actions. They are no match for you," he assured Wangji with confidence.
Cloud Recesses: In Jingshi
Xuanyu woke up at 9 am, feeling a sense of emptiness in the Jingshi. His husband, Wangji, was nowhere to be found.
He sighed and reluctantly got out of bed, his mind filled with thoughts of the lecture that was already underway.
As he made his way to the bathroom, he couldn't shake off the feeling of Wangji's absence.
After taking a refreshing bath, Xuanyu dressed himself in Lan's distinctive robes, meticulously tying the Lan's forehead ribbon on his forehead and the crimson red ribbon on his hair.
He checked his reflection in the mirror, ensuring that he looked presentable. With a sense of determination, he left the Jingshi and ventured into the bamboo forest.
Cloud Recesses: Bamboo forest
As he approached the entrance of the bamboo forest, Xuanyu noticed a familiar figure engaged in conversation with a Lan disciple. His brows furrowed, realizing that it was the first Jade, XiChen.
He inwardly groaned, regretting his decision to leave the Jingshi in search of Lan Qing and Lan Qionglin. He hadn't expected to encounter XiChen so early in the day.
Feeling a sense of unease, Xuanyu lowered his gaze and continued on his way towards the infirmary. He believed that hiding was his only escape from the persistent presence of the Jade.
Unbeknownst to him, XiChen had noticed Xuanyu and a mischievous smile appeared on his lips. He dismissed the Lan disciple and approached Xuanyu with purpose.
Hastening his steps, XiChen stood in front of Xuanyu, blocking his path. "When are you going to stop avoiding me?" he asked, crossing his arms and observing Xuanyu with amusement.
Xuanyu quickly turned his gaze away, not wanting to face XiChen. Sensing his resistance, XiChen sighed and walked past him, only to turn and face him again. Xuanyu scoffed and looked away, hoping to maintain his distance.
"Please, stop avoiding me," XiChen pleaded, his voice filled with sincerity.
Xuanyu shook his head, feigning ignorance. "I-I don't know what you're talking about," he replied, his voice tinged with frustration.
All he wanted was a peaceful day without the presence of a Jade and their constant nagging. It seemed like the universe was conspiring against him.
XiChen chuckled, leaning closer to Xuanyu. "I know you know...stop playing this game of hide and seek. I won't let you escape me that easily," he said, a playful smirk on his face.
"Leave me alone...I need to go somewhere...bye," Xuanyu muttered, determined to continue on his way. But before he could make another move, a hand wrapped around his arm, pulling him back.
He collided with XiChen's body, their eyes locking in a moment of silent confrontation. Xuanyu glared at the smiling XiChen, frustration and defiance evident in his gaze.
XiChen couldn't comprehend why Xuanyu was persistently avoiding him. His brow furrowed in confusion as he pondered over the reason behind Xuanyu's behavior. With a genuine desire to uncover the truth, XiChen mustered the courage to question Xuanyu.
"Why are you keeping your distance from me? What have I done to deserve this?" XiChen's voice carried a mix of confusion and concern.
The bond they once shared seemed to have faded, leaving XiChen feeling perplexed and hurt. He couldn't fathom what could have transpired between them to cause such a rift.
"A-xu, please tell me what's going on," XiChen pleaded, his voice filled with genuine worry, intensifying his desire to understand the situation. "We used to be so close, and now it feels like you're intentionally pushing me away. Did something happen between us? Did I unknowingly hurt you?"
Xuanyu hesitated for a moment, his gaze shifting uncomfortably. "It's not about you, XiChen," he finally spoke, his voice laced with a hint of sadness. "I just... I really need to have a conversation with A-Qing today. It's important."
XiChen's eyes softened, understanding the weight of Xuanyu's words. He breathed in relief before a mischievous smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he playfully teased Xuanyu.
" Sweetheart, Lying is forbidden in Cloud Recesses, remember?" XiChen's voice held a playful tone.
Xuanyu's glare met XiChen's playful gaze, his frustration evident. "I'm not lying," he retorted, taking a step back to create some distance between them.
XiChen let out a weary sigh, his expression growing serious. "Ever since you and my brother got married, you've been avoiding me. I can't accept that as an excuse this time, A-xu," he stated firmly.
"Then don't," Xuanyu replied, his voice a delicate blend of determination and vulnerability. "But please try to understand that there are pressing matters that require my attention."
As Xuanyu made his way towards the infirmary, he felt a pair of strong arms encircle his waist, causing him to scoff in response. "Let go, A-huan," he demanded, his tone tinged with a hint of annoyance.
XiChen shook his head, a mischievous smirk playing upon his lips. "With Wangji gone, it means I finally have your undivided attention," he teased, his voice laced with playful anticipation.
Curiosity sparked within Xuanyu as he wondered about his husband's whereabouts. "Where did he go?" he inquired, a flicker of concern crossing his features.
XiChen's smirk widened as he revealed the unexpected destination. "He's on his way to meet Sect Leader Wei in Yiling," he divulged, his words causing Xuanyu's eyes to widen in disbelief.
"What?" Xuanyu exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise . He instinctively moved away from XiChen, his mind filled questions and disbelief.
Xuanyu glared at XiChen, his frustration evident. "I need to leave," he asserted, determined to gather more information and make sense of the unexpected turn of events.
"Wait... what? No, you can't..." XiChen pleaded, grabbing hold of Xuanyu's arms in an attempt to prevent him from leaving.
Xuanyu looked at XiChen with a threatening gaze, then shifted his attention to the Jade's hands gripping his arm. "Let go," Xuanyu demanded, his voice firm and resolute.
XiChen shook his head, his grip tightening slightly. "Not until you..." he began, his voice trailing off.
"Never," Xuanyu interrupted, his gaze averted from XiChen's intense stare.
"Really? You would decline... I thought you loved me? That you cared about me?" XiChen taunted, a hint of disappointment lacing his words.
Xuanyu groaned in frustration, torn between his conflicting emotions.
"Fine," Xuanyu finally relented, his voice filled with resignation. He knew that he couldn't waste any more time arguing with XiChen. XiChen's smile widened, a mix of relief and admiration in his eyes.
"Don't take it back, sweetheart... Are you truly sure about your decision?" XiChen questioned, wanting to ensure Xuanyu's commitment.
Xuanyu nodded firmly, his resolve unyielding. "I promise... Now let go... I need to talk to A-Qing,"
XiChen smirked, releasing his hold on Xuanyu's arm. XiChen observed the younger as Xuanyu headed towards the infirmary, his mind filled with a mix of emotions and thoughts.
Turning around, XiChen let out a chuckle. "Finally," he muttered to himself, a sense of anticipation filling his being.
As Xuanyu headed towards the infirmary, his mind filled with a mix of emotions and thoughts.
He couldn't help but scoff, feeling a sense of frustration and confusion lingering within him.
He only wanted to be there before Wangji started finding him.