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@Lan Wangji Wei Wuxian put absolutely zero effort into pretending he had any interest in stopping Lan Wangji from pulling his clothes apart. He lay there, looking up at the older man with lust filling his dark eyes like water filling a well. His hair splayed out messily behind him, barely contained by the red ribbon he used to fasten his updo. Wei Wuxian shivered, but he was not sure if it was because of the cool air that washed over his bare chest or the way he was trapped beneath Lan Wangji's hungry stare. They stilled for a moment before moving in sync again, meeting each other in the middle (before Wei Wuxian was pressed unceremoniously into the bed again).

Lan Wangji's rather sharp hairpiece waved dangerous in Wei Wuxian's face the the former lowered his lips to the dip of Wei Wuxian's collarbones. Startled, Wei Wuxian brought a hand up to shield his face before carefully plucking the metal piece out, slamming it into the closest corner of the bed. A whine escaped between his dry lips, and he leaned forward to press his mouth wherever he could reach: the tip of Lan Wangji's ear, his soft cheek, his sharp jaw.

The combination of wetness lapping against his skin, hands roaming the expanse of his chest and sides, and the moist noises was incredibly titillating. Wei Wuxian was easily lost in the pleasure, his hands up and crumpling Lan Wangji's robes.

Lan Wangji's fingers were cold at first when they touched his heated entrance, and Wei Wuxian's legs jerked in response. He took a deep, shaky breath, trying to force down a wince when he felt a thin finger slip into him. It was not so bad for having gone weeks without anything inside him, but Wei Wuxian digressed. He liked exaggerating and pronouncing each and every little discomfort he faced - it just came naturally. "Lan Zhan..." he moaned softly, turning his head to the side so he could gather himself. He felt as though he had inadvertently conditioned his eyes to start tearing up whenever Lan Wangji stuck his fingers or inside him, even if he was so full of joy and anticipation, even if he was /dying/ for it. "More," he demanded, his voice breathy yet still full of his taunting and teasing energy. "I thought I was being punished, Lan Zhan- what is this supposed to be?"

@Wei Wuxian "Is it a crime to talk about it? Lan Zhan, you're too much-"

Although Lan Wangji could never outdo Wei Wuxian's smooth manipulation of words, he could use sheer force alone to overpower the smaller instead. Wei Wuxian used to tell him that gentlemen didn't use force only their words, but he also probably didn't realize that Lan Wangji was only "ungentleman-like" towards him.

He felt the smaller male's hips moving against his thigh in a grinding motion, the smaller male already catching on to what was to come, getting himself aroused. Leaving him to that for a moment, Lan Wangji focused his attention on removing the satin sash around Wei Wuxian's waist, part of one of the new sets of robes that he gifted to the other. He gave a simple tug, letting the sash undo itself. With Wei Wuxian lying down, he didn't bother to remove it all the way, instead just pulling the robe apart to reveal smooth, creamy skin underneath. After being left alone for so long, the bruises and teeth marks had finally disappeared. While Lan Wangji had to admit that Wei Wuxian was absolutely stunning like this, he felt rather empty, the urge to start biting already running through his head.

So that's what he did. Hungrily, he attached his lips to his favorite place to mark up - Wei Wuxian's neck and shoulders. Lapping at the skin softly with his tongue, he then proceeded to bit down, leaving immediate bruising on the tender skin that had been free from his abuse for an extended period of time. His roaming hands continued to work down below, removing Wei Wuxian's trousers. Lan Wangji had to pause, removing the smaller's shoes in the process so the trousers would come all the way off, but immediately attached his clothed chest to Wei Wuxian's right after. His hands found their way to the sides of Wei Wuxian's plump buttocks, giving them a squeeze.

This had gone on for a while, Lan Wangji simply needing to properly mark up Wei Wuxian's body first as though he was reclaiming his most valuable possession. Once the urge subsided momentarily, he grabbed the bottle of oils from the corner of the bed, pouring an extra amount onto his fingers. Since it had been a while, Wei Wuxian might not be used to it anymore, and it could hurt more before he readjusted. Carefully, he spread the smaller's legs, stopping the grinding motions, and gently pressed a finger against the small entrance. He prodded momentarily, then allowed the muscles to swallow hisnl digit at their own pace.

@Lan Wangji "Missed, but you didn't miss me."

“Of course, I missed you,” Wei Wuxian protested, his heartbeat picking up in anticipation of what was going to happen next, judging by the look in Lan Wangji’s eyes. He tried to tug his hand out of Lan Wangji's to no avail. “What are you talking about?”

"You thought about maidens instead."

“No!” Wei Wuxian cried indignantly. “I didn’t! I was only telling Jin Ling!” Just how much had Lan Wangji heard? The older couldn’t seriously be unhappy about it, could he? Wei Wuxian grunted as he was hoisted up easily like a burlap sack over Lan Wangji’s shoulder. Hard bone and muscle dug into his stomach, pressing even harder against him when Wei Wuxian struggled. His legs kicked pathetically, but when he felt his knee bump into Lan Wangji’s hip he stopped wriggling, opting to fill his whining and wailing full of sadness instead in hopes of swaying the older.

It did not work, of course. Wei Wuxian all but tumbled onto bed, Lan Wangji’s body pissing him down before he had a chance to sit up. He felt Lan Wangji force his legs to open with his knee nudging into a sensitive area. It was already arousing, the way Lan Wangji dominated him and controlled him, but Wei Wuxian only mewled in a distressing way, hoping to rouse the animal inside Lan Wangji. The older man growled his name followed by a tug on his ear, and Wei Wuxian groaned, his reactions uninhibited.

"Do you admit your fault?"

"What fault?" Wei Wuxian demanded, his voice breaking when he felt teeth pressing against his soft earlobe. His eyes fluttered close, and his arms wound tighter around Lan Wangji's waist. The leg lodged firmly between his thighs refused to budge. Wei Wuxian switched from trying to close his legs to bucking his hips up so he could rub and grind against Lan Wangji's thigh rather shamelessly, his arousal coming to life as he did so. "Is it a crime to talk about it? Lan Zhan, you're too much-"


 

@Wei Wuxian It would be rude of him to interrupt this that Wei Wuxian got to spend with his nephew, who Lan Wangji knew, was still having a hard time accepting the reality. With respect to the fact that this was also Wei Wuxian's nephew and a good friend of Sizhui's, Lan Wangji decided he wouldn't interrupt the conversation, instead waiting for his turn in the well-mannered way that he raised to be. Though unintentionally eavesdropping, Lan Wangji began to pick up bits and pieces of the conversation that made him furrow his brows, wondering what Wei Wuxian was trying to teach the young Jin disciple.

"Trust me, you need to have a sense of tenderness. The young maidens eat that up, I promise." Lan Wangji had inched forward upon hearing this, his mind trying to build context, any kind of context, for why Wei Wuxian could be bringing this up rather than for what the most obvious reason would be. "How pretty would you say she is? What about..." Wei Wuxian's elbows moved a bit, and Lan Wangji could only guess at the action that the smaller male was making, taking in a deep breath to control himself from reaching out and grabbing Wei Wuxian's arms, asking the smaller male why he was thinking about maidens and...their body shape. "You know, these? What would you say about them? That's something important to consider, you know." Wei Wuxian loudly finished off, making it impossible for Lan Wangji to imagine any other explanation for what this conversation was about.

Though his facial features remained neutral, there was probably a dark aura surrounding the male dressed in all white robes. As he made his appearance behind Wei Wuxian, presenting himself to Jin Ling first, his face seemed to perfectly convey the current situation to Wei Wuxian's nephew, which led to his immediate self-removal from the scene. As usual, his Wei Ying was clueless, and Lan Wangji continued to stand behind him until they came face to face. It appeared as though Wei Wuxian almost jumped from seeing him, which insinuated to Lan Wangji that Wei Wuxian had already admitted to being caught in the act, no way of denying any and all of what he just said.

Of course, it was just like the smaller male to recollect himself in the moment. "Lan Zhan!" he exclaimed, "What a coincidence. Did you get a lot of work done?" Had Lan Wangji not heard those words himself, he would have bought Wei Wuxian's coy demeanor, accepted his flirtatious tendencies. But now, there was a deep feeling of dissatisfaction within him. Was it because he wasn't giving his partner the attention that maidens could give him? Was it because he wasn't tender enough? Why was his Wei Ying thinking about maidens at this time of day, or even at all? "Did you miss me?" Wei Wuxian added at the end, now giving no signs of wanting to come clean about the words from just moments before.

"Missed." Lan Wangji replied truthfully to begin with, a hand going up to cup the hand that Wei Wuxian had over his cheek, giving it a light squeeze, "But you didn't miss me." he then proceeded to lodge his complaint, "You thought about maidens instead." he said, bending his knees slightly, easily hoisting Wei Wuxian's smaller frame up and over his shoulder, "Thinking of other people. Should be punished." he concluded, then turned and carried Wei Wuxian back to the Silent Chamber.

Once inside the Silent Chamber, Lan Wangji kicked the door shut with his foot, making sure to lock it securely before pinning Wei Wuxian down against the hard wooden bed frame. Lan Wangji had been holding back for so long, had been repressing himself since he got busy and Wei Wuxian had injured his ankle. The older male didn't like to entertain the idea of his person thinking of others - whether it be through giving advice or thinking for himself. In fact, Lan Wangji thought it was time for a little reminder that Wei Wuxian was his alone, that he didn't like to share, and that Hanguang Jun insisted on being the only person who could run through Wei Wuxian's mind about such intimate affairs.

He lodged a knee between Wei Wuxian's thighs, his kneecap pressing against the smaller's groin. "Wei Ying." he all but growled into the smaller's ears, giving the soft cartilage a domineering and possessive bite, "Do you admit your fault?" he asked. If yes, Lan Wangji could enact his 'punishment'. If no, Lan Wangji had even more reason for 'punishment', as speaking untruthfully would mean an added layer of fault. He wasn't particularly angry per say, thus his words didn't come out that way. Rather, it was his attempt at a serious tone, one that ended up giving away how much he desperately needed and wanted Wei Wuxian.

@Lan Wangji "En. Later, eat lunch together."

"Okay," Wei Wuxian said happily, his heart warming with the arrangement. Determined to let Lan Wangji get through the ever growing stack of scrolls on his table today, Wei Wuxian quietly dressed himself, tucked his flute into his side, and slipped out of the Silent Chamber without a word, seeing as how Lan Wangji put his utmost concentration into the scrolls already. Not wanting to encounter Lan Qiren again at the moment, Wei Wuxian decided to take the back path out, figuring he would pay Lan Wangji's rabbits and Lil Apple a visit. His gait was much stronger now, almost fully healed thanks to Lan Wangji's spiritual healing attempt.

Instead of finding rabbits or a donkey, Wei Wuxian encountered a young disciple sitting beneath a tree's shade, his head bowed in what looked like defeat. Wei Wuxian's heart ached, just a little, at the lonely sight. It was such a beautiful day: this disciple should be out and about with his friends on this fine break day, shouldn't he? As he neared the boy on the path, Wei Wuxian was beginning to get a sense of familiarity creeping up on him.

"Ey? Jin Ling?" Wei Wuxian neared the sullen looking figure laying a hand on the boy's shoulder. Jin Ling's indignant face turned up to scowl at him, but Wei Wuxian had gotten so good at reading expressions in gazes he could tell Jin Ling was full of melancholy.

"What are you doing here?" Jin Ling barked.

"What am I doing here? I want to ask you the same thing!" Wei Wuxian huffed, his matching (and mocking) Jin Ling's disgruntled expression. "I live here. Shouldn't you be having fun with your friends instead of brooding at the back of the mountain? You're a special one."

Jin Ling opened his mouth, looking like he had something biting to retort, but nothing came out of his mouth. He turned his back towards Wei Wuxian again, kicking pathetically at a pebble. "None of your business," he finally said.

Wei Wuxian watched the younger for a bit, his hands speared on his hips. He had his mother's delicate features and his father and Jiang Cheng's fierce temper. It hurt to look at Jin Ling, always, but Wei Wuxian would never avoid the young boy out of guilt. In fact, he wanted even more to comfort and console Jin Ling whenever he looked like a pitiful child. He wanted to be Jin Ling's uncle, even if he didn't deserve the title, and he wanted Jin Ling to know he could come to him for anything if he wished. "Of course," Wei Wuxian began, scrutinizing Jin Ling carefully. "Some young maiden has rejected our Young Master Jin's affections, hasn't she?"

"What? No!" Jin Ling's head snapped back up so quick Wei Wuxian was afraid his neck would sprain. "You really are an idiot! Besides, what kind of maiden would reject me?"

Truly, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Wei Wuxian shook his head with a dramatic sigh, crossing his arms and tapping Chenqing against his chin. It seemed as though the young master was in denial with the way he reacted so viciously. "Jin Ling, listen to me. She would not want someone so vain and proud. I've lived so many years and seen so many things, you think I wouldn't know? Trust me, you need to have a sense of tenderness. The young maidens eat that up, I promise." Jin Ling's mouth had dropped, possibly in disbelief, but Wei Wuxian liked to think it was because of his sound and quality advice. "Why are you looking at me like that? Start committing it to memory. I'm only going to say this once."

"Why should I believe the words of a cut sleeve!"

Wei Wuxian winced visibly, but he took a seat on a rock outcropping across from Jin Ling, crossing an ankle over his knee. "Who's the cut sleeve who saved your friends from corpse poisoning and from being tied up like little pigs for slaughter? You're just like your uncle!"

That seemed to shut Jin Ling up, his lips forming an 'o' of surprise. He cleared his throat, seeming to come to his senses, and smoothed his snow-white robes out. "Fine," he said roughly, avoiding looking Wei Wuxian in the eyes. He would much rather hear about how Wei Wuxian killed the Tortoise of Slaughter at the age of 15 so he could best the older man, but after his little outburst, the least he could do was pretend he was interested in what Wei Wuxian had to say. "If you're so good at it, let's hear it."

"Jin Ling," Wei Wuxian said sympathetically, forgiving the younger boy's outburst in the matter of seconds. "Of course, as a fine young master like yourself, you ought to have some standards too and not chase after any maiden in town, then get dejected when she has no taste for you. So tell me about this mysterious maiden who has you in a rut. How pretty would you say she is? What about..." Wei Wuxian's hands cupped around invisible globes, holding them to his chest. "You know, these? What would you say about them? That's something important to consider, you know."

Wei Wuxian was only teasing in the only way he knew how, but Jin Ling's face turned beet red in an instant. He gaped at Wei Wuxian, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. "Y-you!" he spluttered whilst Wei Wuxian laughed so hard he doubled over, clutching at his stomach. As quick as Jin Ling's blush came, however, it disappeared as the young disciple paled so much his face was white as if he'd see a ghost. He tried to stammer something out, but only a weak wheezing came out before he stood, bowed messily, turned tail and ran.

Wei Wuxian was so taken aback he was only able to call after Jin Ling once he was halfway down the trail. "Jin Ling! What are you doing?!" There were no spirits wandering the back of Cloud Recesses, though, which Wei Wuxian was absolutely sure of. He turned to see what had gotten Jin Ling in such a cold sweat. What he saw paled him to the same degree, and he jumped up, wondering how long Lan Wangji had been standing there. "Lan Zhan!" he exclaimed, fear and excitement intermingling in his voice. "What a coincidence. Did you get a lot of work done?" He approached the other man confidently, his hand finding Lan Wangji's soft cheek and caressing it, the other resting on Lan Wangji's hip. His voice dropped a tone. "Did you miss me?"

@Wei Wuxian Wei Wuxian's body was still firmly attached to Lan Wangji's in the morning, the older making no attempt to remove his partner. He had been meditating since dawn, since he had woken up. However, once he felt Wei Wuxian stirring beside him, Lan Wangji opened his eyes, greeting the smaller with a gentle squeeze on his arm.

The way that they had been sleeping, ever since Lan Wangji had given up the traditional sleeping posture and taken to hold Wei Wuxian in his arms, was their new routine. Lan Wangji would be high enough on the bed such that the smaller could press his head on Lan Wangji's chest, an arm loosely thrown around his waist while Lan Wangji hugged his tight.

They didn't have much to say in the morning, rather just enjoying the peace that came with the lack of responsibilities and duties expected of them today. Lan Wangji was in the midst of stroking Wei Wuxian's backside when the smaller male suddenly rolled away from him, words dismissing him. He wondered if something was wrong, but in the end, decided that he was overthinking the situation. Wei Wuxian had always been thoughtful towards him.

"En. Later, eat lunch together." he said, sitting up in bed and leaning over to give the smaller another kiss on his cheek before cleaning himself up and starting to busy himself for the day. Lan Wangji was as meticulous as his Uncle was about the assignments when it came to grading, but his notes were simpler. In red ink, he would make notes where needed and circle the wrong characters and ideas, which would need to be revised and resubmitted by the disciples. Given his momentum, he soon lost himself to work, trying to diminish the stack with the least amount of time possible.

When the sun was in the middle of the sky, its rays filtering into the Silent Chamber, Lan Wangji looked up from his work. All this time, Wei Wuxian had really left him to complete his work, not even calling his name once. Appreciatively, Lan Wangji got up from his desk, going out of the Silent Chamber to look for Wei Wuxian. From a distance, he saw the other, his back turned. He approached slowly, softly calling the other, not wanting to startle him, "Wei Ying." It seemed he may have been too quiet, as he received no response. He tried again, "Wei Ying-" Maybe Wei Wuxian was too far, thus Lan Wangji took a few steps closer, Jin Ling suddenly coming into view also.

@Lan Wangji Happy to have successfully taken Lan Wangji away from his work, Wei Wuxian tucked himself closer once they laid down, resting his face in the crook of Lan Wangji's neck, where his sweet scent was the the most intense.

"Don't be naughty."

"I'm am not," Wei Wuxian protested softly, his hands coming up between them to block Lan Wangji's impending kiss. "Lan Zhan, it's /you/ being naughty. Stop it, I asked you to come for warmth, not this," he said through giggles, his hands falling away from Lan Wangji's face when his laughter got the best of him. He allowed Lan Wangji to pepper his face and neck with loving kisses. He returned a few of them when he could through his laughter, his hands moving down Lan Wangji's chest and side to hold him close.

For the rest of the night, Wei Wuxian managed to let go of the worries that plagued him. He was having too much of a grand time entangling his legs with Lan Wangji's, caressing the other's well-defined arms, and pressing light kisses all over his handsome face. Night time used to be Wei Wuxian's favourite time of the day because of how he was usually free of responsibilities by then and able to drink to his heart's content. Now, Wei Wuxian looked forward to the darkness and the moon in the sky because that was when he and Lan Wangji could lie in each other's embrace alone, without a care or bother in the world.

"My clothes want to stay on me tonight, Lan Zhan," Wei Wuxian warned with a yawn, snuggling impossibly close to Lan Wangji and closing his eyes before the other could try and get his way anyway. "See you tomorrow."

The next day was a free day for the study disciples, so Wei Wuxian did not let go of Lan Wangji even way past sunrise. Whilst he lay there with his ear pressed over Lan Wangji's chest, listening to the steady thumping of his love's heart, Wei Wuxian had a fleeting thought - how much time had he taken away from Lan Wangji's work, forcing the other to focus on him instead? Lan Qiren would be- no, he must be displeased. Ever since the little bit of tension they had on the day Wei Wuxian injured himself, Lan Wangji had noticeably been spending much more time with him, sometimes not doing anything at Wei Wuxian's behest.

Wei Wuxian rolled off of Lan Wangji to lie on his side with his back towards the other, deep in thought. He was never like this. Why did he have to be so clingy and dependent on Lan Wangji for his happiness? He was glad to have somebody to love so intensely, but did love change him, and not for the better? With a sigh, Wei Wuxian sat up, stretching his arms over his head with a whine. "Lan Zhan, you're allowed to get up now. You should catch up with your disciples' assignments today."

@Wei Wuxian In the end, Lan Wangji didn't grade papers for long. He had only gone through a few when Wei Wuxian's footsteps snapped his attention back in the smaller's direction. To his surprise, Wei Wuxian had made his way over, situating himself in Lan Wangji's lap, effectively drawing the older's attention away from the remaining scrolls on the table. Placing the brush down so that he wouldn't get ink on Wei Wuxian's robe, Lan Wangji wrapped one arm around the smaller male, asking, "Wei Ying, what is it?"

"Lan Zhan, come to bed. I don't want to sleep without you. It's too lonely." the smaller male whined pitifully, earning a small, amused sigh from Lan Wangji.

"I'm right here." he said, tilting his head so he could look at Wei Wuxian, the smaller male having found a pillow on Lan Wangji's chest.

"Aiyo... how cold it is tonight... and the blanket is not thick enough to keep me warm either..."

Lan Wangji blinked a few times, knowing that his Wei Ying was being mischievous, but still letting himself fall for it. "En, okay. I will keep you warm." he said, neatly stacking up the remaining scrolls and getting up, carrying Wei Wuxian to bed. Lan Wangji carefully placed the smaller down on the inner side of the bed. After removing his own shoes and outer robe, he laid down as well, turning to his left side so he could pull Wei Wuxian's body against his own. "Don't be naughty." he gently murmured into the smaller's ear, keeping an arm tightly wound around Wei Wuxian's narrow waist.

It was already late into the night, the sound of crickets could vaguely be heard if they were both silent. Although it was obvious that Lan Wangji had been controlling himself from doing any activities in bed for fear of injuring Wei Wuxian, his tendencies to kiss the other persisted. When Wei Wuxian showed signs of being restless, though having obviously called Lan Wangji over to help him sleep, the older male released him gently, positioning his body lower on the bed so he could press a kiss on Wei Wuxian's lips. He loved the taste of the smaller's plump lips, nipping at the lower lip again when he pulled away. He continued to press kisses along Wei Wuxian's jawline, leaving a little mark for every time the smaller male , or tried to get out of sleeping.

@Lan Wangji Lan Wangji's had such a beautiful smile. Wei Wuxian was not sure how many times he had that particular thought run through his head. He wanted Lan Wangji to always be smiling, always be happy. With his fluttering heart, Wei Wuxian cleaned his bowl off earnestly, each taste better than the last. He wanted to help Lan Wangji clean up the kitchen, too, but the other man made quick work out of it all while insisting Wei Wuxian stay put.

Wei Wuxian took it back. Lan Wangji was not perfect. His insistence on treating Wei Wuxian like an invalid was endearing, but Wei Wuxian was a man, and men /walked/ on their own. They didn't let other men show off their strength by allowing them to carry him like a maiden who weighed nothing. On the other hand, Lan Wangji's sweet scent lulled Wei Wuxian into a type of sleepy stupor, his eyes lidding and opening. He tried to keep himself upright, but his head nodded back and forth in half-waking state. It wasn't until Lan Wangji lay him down that his body betrayed him. He was completely awake, his limbs buzzing with energy.

With Lan occupied, Wei Wuxian had time to process his annoyingly loud thoughts again. Lan Qiren's absolutely dislike, or even hatred, of him was going to prove to be a huge problem. Since Wei Wuxian was going to be living with Lan Wangji as his guest, as Lan Qiren so eloquently put it, he would be expected to follow the rules of the sect. Before, Wei Wuxian supposed to did it because he saw reason for him to confine and conform, but now Lan Wangji's reputation was on the line.

No, Wei Wuxian, didn't want to think about it, but it plagued him heavily. He sat up with a sigh, slipping out of bed quietly. It took him only seconds to reach Lan Wangji on his aching foot, shoving Lan Wangji's arms away from the table to make space, allowing himself to slot his presence between Lan Wangji and his work. "Lan Zhan," he drawled, closing his eyes once he'd found a suitable place to rest his head - Lan Wangji's shoulder. "Lan Zhan, come to bed. I don't want to sleep without you. It's too lonely." With an exaggerated, pitiful sigh, Wei Wuxian hugged Lan Wangji's waist a little tighter. "Aiyo... how cold it is tonight... and the blanket is not thick enough to keep me warm either..." Cracking an eye open, he glanced up at Lan Wangji, unable to help a chuckle at how ingenious he felt he was.

@Wei Wuxian Hearing the other's approval and praise brought another gentle smile to Lan Wangji's face, and he handed over the bowl so that Wei Wuxian could eat at his own pace, "There's more in the pot." he said, motioning with a flick of his chin in the direction of the stove. Lan Wangji tilted his head just slightly, watching as his partner ate his cooking. Indeed, this was the first time he had ever cooked for Wei Wuxian, or for anyone, since he had been excused out of kitchen duties upon coming of age. Lan Wangji wondered if Wei Wuxian was simply praising him out of courtesy, or if he had possibly maintained his skills from over a decade ago.

"Thank you, Lan Zhan. You are so..." Wei Wuxian suddenly piped up, drawing Lan Wangji's attention again, pale eyes meeting with lively dark brown ones, "Perfect." the other concluded, to which Lan Wangji's lips curved up a little more, reaching out to the side of Wei Wuxian's head. "I love you, Lan Zhan."

"En. I love you, Wei Ying." he replied.

After Wei Wuxian had eaten, and Lan Wangji made sure to clean up the area so none of the disciples would have extra duties and wonder who had broken into their kitchen, the bigger male picked up Wei Wuxian again, heading back to the Silent Chamber. Once they got back, Lan Wangji placed Wei Wuxian down on the bed, sitting down on the edge to help the other remove his shoes again. Day by day, the swelling on Wei Wuxian's ankle had diminished, showing signs of improvement. Lan Wangji still had a few papers to grade, so after trying a little more of spiritual transfer, he looked up at Wei Wuxian, urging the smaller, "Rest if you're tired. Call me anytime." he said, indicating to Wei Wuxian that he had to continue grading the assignments on his desk.

Lan Wangji began to grade again, glancing over at Wei Wuxian every once in a while. His heart was lighter when Wei Wuxian was in his sight.

@Lan Wangji "But I want to go back!" Wei Wuxian tried to say in his most convincing voice, but it came out cross and sulky instead, like a small child throwing a tantrum. Wei Wuxian decided to blame it on the pain shooting up his leg from the way he'd been forcing weight into his ankle for the past ten-or-so steps. "I'm not hungry anymore, Lan Zhan. Your uncle told you to go back, we better go."

Of course, Lan Wangji effortlessly picks him up and kissed Wei Wuxian with enough force to convey his meaning: no more arguments. With a sigh, Wei Wuxian resigned himself to being carried the rest of the way across Cloud Recesses to the kitchens. This man was impossible, Wei Wuxian though as he watched the way the moonlight shifted across Lan Wangji's face. He had just been scolded so terribly by his uncle, and after he begged for punishment, he continued to carry out the latter half of his crime.

How Wei Wuxian loved him.

As much as Wei Wuxian wanted to help out in the kitchen, he was forced onto a barrel and only allowed to watch, much to his displeasure. It was peaceful, however, to watch Lan Wangji move about in the kitchen. "I didn't know you could cook," Wei Wuxian finally commented, the first neutral set of words he'd said since his outburst on Lan Qiren. Watching Lan Wangji brought about a sense of calmness within him with how careful and measured each of Lan Wangji's actions were.

Wei Wuxian wanted to feed himself. He really did. But what could he do when Lan Wangji approached him and asked the most loving way (barely detectable by others) for Wei Wuxian to try it but /try/ it? Wei Wuxian blew on the spoonful of porridge before accepting it, the still scalding rice burning his tongue and throat as he swallowed. For a second, Wei Wuxian could not taste anything. He anticipated the sting of the peppers he saw Lan Wangji add earlier, but it still did not come. Wei Wuxian ate another spoonful before he realized it was /too/ bland. Of course, with that Gusu palate of Lan Wangji's, anything he thought was spicy would be at an amateurish level for Wei Wuxian.

"It tastes good," Wei Wuxian found himself saying, smiling so wide his cheeks ached and his eyes crinkled into crescents. Lan Wangji made it for him. Wei Wuxian was touched to the core, almost emotional as he reached out to take the bowl from Lan Wangji. "Thank you, Lan Zhan. You are so..." As Wei Wuxian trailed off, he shovelled another spoonful into his mouth as he racked his brain for the perfect word to describe Lan Wangji. "Perfect," he finally said, his smile impossibly big. "I love you, Lan Zhan."

@Wei Wuxian Of course, upon hearing those words again, Lan Wangji didn't have any response. He could understand his Uncle's feelings perfectly, knowing the roots of those words and why he deserved them. However, Lan Wangji couldn't even apologize as the elder walked away, his heart sinking again. Wei Wuxian, taking advantage of Lan Wangji's momentary loss of attention, rolled out of his arms, the smaller male tugging Lan Wangji to stand up with him.

Wei Wuxian began to limp back towards the Silent Chamber, Lan Wangji reaching out and missing the main by an arm's length by how fast he was going. "Wei Ying-!" he called out, hurriedly catching up to the smaller, "Your foot-" he said, stopping the smaller in his tracks again. "It's not your fault, don't say those words." Without waiting for Wei Wuxian to say another word, Lan Wangji picked the smaller male back up again, in the same pose that they were in earlier. "Not going back." he then added, turning back around to the kitchen as he said they would. Afterall, he had already been upbraided for the action, might as well follow through with it. At least by the end of the night, Wei Wuxian wouldn't have to be hungry.

Lan Wangji didn't let Wei Wuxian give his reasoning, didn't want to hear the other say that he suddenly wasn't hungry anymore, or that Lan Wangji was being silly. He simply pressed a domineering kiss on Wei Wuxian's lips, hushing the smaller male, making his way into the kitchen. Carefully, he let Wei Wuxian sit atop one of the barrels inside, where some of the dried provisions were stored. Lan Wangji had learned simple cooking from a young age, as all disciples had to take turns working in the kitchen. Status was only taken into consideration when it came to family line and who had the right to wear the forehead ribbon; all other duties were distributed equally.

Wordlessly, he began to cook some porridge. It was simple, but Lan Wangji understood Wei Wuxian's tastebuds well enough by now that he took it upon himself to scour the kitchen for any types of spicy ingredients, eventually finding a few dried peppers that were probably used for medicinal purposes. Using vegetable broth and salt, he stirred in some cooked rice, eventually, crushing the peppers and sprinkling them in as well. They didn't have any meat in the kitchen, was was not unusual, as the disciples all had vegetarian diets when they were in the Cloud Recesses. He sighed softly, apologetic for not having bought some dried provisions on his way back last time, just to have in case Wei Wuxian had cravings. Once the porridge was completed, he scooped a steaming hot ladle into a small bowl, going over to Wei Wuxian and holding it out, softly murmuring, "Wei Ying, try it. Is it to taste?"

@Lan Wangji "Wei Ying!"

"Good! Good! Wei Wuxian you know how to speak up for Wangji! You don't remember any of the rules when it comes to yourself, but you suddenly remember them when you're talking about others!"

He hated the way Lan Qiren looked and talked to him, as if he were low as a dog, or dangerous as a predator. "There is a difference," Wei Wuxian shot back immediately in a biting tone, his expression tightening. "Between knowing the rules and abiding by them. I know the rules thanks to you, Second Uncle, and I chose not to abide by them. You want to punish someone, leave Lan Zhan out of it." With each word, Wei Wuxian's voice became lower, rougher.

Lan Wangji was making /excuses/ for him. Wei Wuxian wanted to yell for him to shut up. He didn't need anyone to defend himself to Lan Qiren. He knew he shouldn't be so angry. Lan Qiren was only upholding the scared rules that were passed down through the generations. Wei Wuxian had no right to challenge these rules when he was a guest, yet he could not /bear/ Lan Wangji being spoken to like that. It didn't matter who. He clenched his jaw listening to Lan Qiren verbally discipline (Wei Wuxian tried not to think 'abuse') Lan Wangji, finding it extremely difficult to listen to.

Wei Wuxian was not finished his little exchange with Lan Qiren, but Lan Wangji's pleading eyes silenced him immediately. Still, his hand balled into a fist, forcing his frustration into his clenched hand. The last condescending look Lan Qiren gave him before he flipped his sleeve and turned away boiled Wei Wuxian's blood. If he had Chenqing- No, he shouldn't be thinking like that anymore. He had been given a second chance to make things right, there was no reason for him to become so impulsive over Lan Qiren's words. Old people were like that, he tried to convince himself as he seethed silently, watching Lan Qiren's retreating back.

"Let go of me," Wei Wuxian said, his voice clipped. Torn between chasing after Lan Qiren or apologizing to Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian did neither, first rolling out of Lan Wangji's arms. He wrapped his hand around Lan Wangji's elbow, perhaps using a little too much strength, and tugged the older man up with him. It took a few deep breaths to get Wei Wuxian's heart to stop beating so fast. "I'm sorry," he finally forced out through gritted teeth. "Let's just go back." With that, Wei Wuxian began his limping gait back in the direction they came from, walking as fast as he could to distance himself from Lan Wangji.

Lan Qiren was right. If Wei Wuxian was never in Lan Wangji's life, Lan Wangji would still be his uncle's perfect disciple, and he would not have to look so wounded over his uncle's disappointment. For the first time since he wholly accepted Lan Wangji as his soulmate, his cultivation partner, his other half, Wei Wuxian began to wonder if he made the right choice.

@Wei Wuxian "Wei Ying!" Lan Wangji hurried called the other's name after hearing his bold words. Wei Wuxian shouldn't try to meddle in this situation, as it would probably make things worse. Even though Lan Qiren had done his fair share of scolding, he had rarely ever followed through on punishments. Usually, the elder would just his mustache, huff in disapproval, and walk away from Lan Wangji.

"Good! Good! Wei Wuxian you know how to speak up for Wangji!" Lan Qiren finally exploded, his face and neck turning red, "You don't remember any of the rules when it comes to yourself, but you suddenly remember them when you're talking about others!"

Lan Wangji's eyes widened and his grip on Wei Wuxian visibly tightened, though he didn't raise his head to look his Uncle in the eyes. "Uncle," he hurried to explain, "Wei Ying is tired. He also has an injury, please be lenient on him." he pleaded, the last part coming out much stronger than he intended.

"Wangji, this is the type of special guest you bring back to Cloud Recesses!" his Uncle continued, turning the attention back to the male dressed in light blue, "You seem to have forgotten all your teachings since you brought him back! Do you not remember those three years? Have you still not learned your lesson?"

Lan Wangji felt like his voice was caught in his throat again. With Wei Wuxian still in his arms, he dropped to his knees, rather harshly, in front of his Uncle. "Wangji will accept Shifu's discipline." he replied, eyes meeting Wei Wuxian's as he gave a small shale of his head, signalling for the smaller male to keep his mouth shut.

"Hmph!" his Uncle said, but tone audibly softening as his nephew on his knees, "Go back inside. Don't let me see you break the rules again. You have disappointed me, Wangji."

@Lan Wangji So Lan Qiren was going to ignore Wei Wuxian completely. The younger man stayed silent. When he twisted to his side to roll out of Lan Wangji's arms, he was horrified to find that Lan Wangji was gripping him even tighter and closer, so shameless in front of his uncle. Seeing the vein begin to emerge in Lan Qiren's forehead, Wei Wuxian knew things were going to escalate, and fast.

"Eating when it is not during the formal mealtimes is forbidden in Cloud Recesses." Wei Wuxian swore Lan Qiren could be considered /shouting/ at this point. Even he winced at the sudden bark, his chest tightening when he heard Lan Wangji's submissive response. The latter's head was bowed, his usually bright eyes dulled. Wei Wuxian's pushing hands laid over Lan Wangji's chest gently, his throat closing up at how extra soft spoken the other became. Wei Wuxian knew he should bow his head out of respect for Lan Qiren and GusuLan, too, and accept what the Lan elder was going to dole out next, but he could not bear the way this man talked to Lan Wangji. Wei Wuxian bristled.

Respect was earned, not commanded, otherwise was it so different from fear?

"Second Uncle Lan, keep your voice down," Wei Wuxian suddenly said coolly, all his previous amusement having completely dissipated. He did not bother with any honourifics, knowing Lan Qiren would be bothered. His eyes narrowed and his brow twitched. "Noise is forbidden in Cloud Recesses, don't you know?" Wei Wuxian forced his way into the exchange, a fiery spark in his gaze directed to the elder. "It was /me/ who asked Lan Zhan to take me out here. If you want to punish someone, you should punish me instead," he said, his tone and body language screaming defiance. It was not ideal for Wei Wuxian to challenge Lan Qiren while he was bundled up in Lan Wangji's arms like a helpless maiden, but he had to make do. "What do you want? Copying the Book of Elegance? Kneeling in the main pavilion? You want me to be paddled? Second Uncle Lan, let me tell you, there is not a single punishment you haven't meted out on me before, if you remember. I welcome you to do so again, but leave Lan Zhan out of this."

@Wei Wuxian “There’s so many places we still haven’t done it yet,” Wei Wuxian was whispering shamelessly into Lan Wangji's ears, causing them to turn pink once more.

"Mischievous." came Lan Wangji's routine answer. Even though he was never considering many of the crazy scenarios Wei Wuxian introduced before, Lan Wangji was sure that when the time came, he'd have long forgotten the embarrassment of hearing the ideas now, rather indulging Wei Wuxian and himself.

"Like your uncle's chambers-" Wei Wuxian giggled against him, making Lan Wangji's heartbeat race even faster. He looked down at the smaller male, finding his features even more attractive under the glow of the moonlight. His skin was incredibly hot from Wei Wuxian's successful attempt to rile him up, the smaller having no idea how much self restraint went into controlling himself every night because he didn't want his strength to worsen the other's injury.

“Wangji.”

The voice was most definitely not Wei Wuxian calling his name, nor was Lan Wangji imagining things. Turning, he saw that it was none other than his Uncle, the elder's eyes containing a gaze that hid flames. "Uncle." Lan Wangji greeted respectfully, still making no indication of wanting to put the male in his arms down.

Even though Wei Wuxian was urging Lan Wangji to put him down, it only resulted in him holding on even tighter, making it impossible for Wei Wuxian to wrangle himself out of his hold.

"Wangji." his Uncle called, a slight tremor in his voice, evidently attempting to talk without raising his voice, "It's late. What are you doing out here?"

"Wangji knows his wrongdoing." he replied, eyes lowered to the ground when talking to the elder, "But I was just going to prepare something in the kitchen." he said.

"Eating when it is not during the formal mealtimes is forbidden in Cloud Recesses." Lan Qiren all but barked at his younger nephew, shaking the sleeve of his robe and pressing and arm behind him disapprovingly.

Lan Wangji nodded his head, "Yes. Uncle, please discipline me." he said, voice unwavering, obviously still planning to carry through with his actions.

@Lan Wangji .

“I told you not to carry me like this!” Wei Wuxian exclaimed as he was hoisted easily into the air, but there was a smile on his face despite his protests. He draped his arms over Lan Wangji’s shoulder, his feet kicking gleefully. It would not be long before he could be up and about on his own feet again, and Wei Wuxian was not a monster enough to deprave Lan Wangji of such a pleasure if this was what the latter wished. Lan Wangji was so careful, holding Wei Wuxian close to his body and walking without so much as a bounce in his step, giving Wei Wuxian a very smooth ride.

It was dark enough with a thin layer of clouds shrouding the moon. Wei Wuxian let go of his inhibitions, giggling and shamelessly whispering into Lan Wangji’s ear about what they could do once his ankle healed. Of course, all week (and even sparsely before) the most they had done was hug and cuddle in fear of agitating Wei Wuxian’s slow healing injury. Even with Lan Wangji’s attempt at spiritual healing, his body was weak and could not utilize everything offered anyway.

“There’s so many places we still haven’t done it yet,” Wei Wuxian said in a hushed voice, his lips moving against Lan Wangji’s pale and cold cheek. “Like your uncle’s chambers-“

“Wangji.”

Wei Wuxian startled at the newcomer, jerking his mouth away from Lan Wangji’s cheek so hard he almost fell out of the other man’s arms, if not for Lan Wangji’s stone steady hold. Speak of the devil, it was really Lan Wangji’s uncle. Wei Wuxian grinned weakly, nodding apprehensively in greeting. Of all the people who could’ve caught him being carried like a woman by Hanguang Jun, it had to be the strictest elder of Gusu.

Lan Qiren looked as though he were about to have an aneurysm. Wei Wuxian saw his fingers twitch, and immediately tried to get Lan Wangji to release him. “Lan Zhan,” he murmured, pushing on the other’s chest. “Let me down.”

@Wei Wuxian Ever since that night of Wei Wuxian injuring his ankle, Lan Wangji had willingly forsaken his punctuality and self-restraint on duties related to the Annual Study. He lectured as usual, keeping the lessons short and comprehensible, but the disciples did not get their scrolls back the day after they were submitted. The students were also released much earlier, on account of Lan Wangji speaking faster and using less time to cover the same amount of content. It appeared that this compromise worked out for everyone, both students and teacher, thus there were never formal questions brought up about why this was happening, and the disciples seemed to be appreciating Hanguang Jun for his sudden lenience on them as well.

Lan Wangji would sit in the Silent Chamber grading assignments now. He would bring them back in stacks and set them besides his desk, grading a few everyday and in between his bouts of caring for Wei Wuxian, who now, completely and truly, commanded Lan Wangji's attention and devotion.

Although he was still strict about what movements Wei Wuxian could and could not do on his own, as well as forcibly carrying the smaller male to different locations despite the strong protests, Lan Wangji was completely upholding Wei Wuxian's wants and needs otherwise.

Just as he had finished reading Jin Ling's paper, marking a few simple notes for clarity and improvement, and grading it with an Yi grade, Wei Wuxian called for him. He looked over in the smaller male's direction, wondering if he was in pain or was feeling lonely again, visibly tensing up in concern.

"Can we go get something to eat? I need fresh air, so don't bother sending for someone. Besides, it's late for them. Come get me." Wei Wuxian asked, to which Lan Wangji's shoulders relaxed visibly as he gave a small smile in return.

"En, sure."

Going over to Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji easily scooped the smaller up in his arms, half-lidded eyes leering across Wei Wuxian's handsome face that betrayed his lighthearted demeanor. With Wei Wuxian in his arms like this, Lan Wangji felt satisfied. "I will cook for you, how is that?" he asked, "What do you want to eat?"

Ask he asked this question, he carried Wei Wuxian towards the kitchen, the smaller male clinging to his neck while his legs were allowed to hang freely. Lan Wangji had been so enamored by Wei Wuxian's smile that he had walked straight across the main pavilion, all without noticing that his Uncle had just come out from the Main Hall, seeing everything.

"Wei Ying, I am here. Will never leave you."

Wei Wuxian began to settle and calm with Lan Wangji's simple and short yet reassuring words. He clutched at Lan Wangji a little tighter, his heart finally at ease. This time, he could tell he was going to be fine for a while, truly. "I know," he murmured, blinking away the wetness and heat behind his eyes. Lan Wangji lay him down shortly after, and Wei Wuxian let himself be taken care of to Lan Wangji's heart's content. He was undressed a couple layers, his boots put away neatly, his face wiped carefully. What else could a man want other than to be treated so delicately by GusuLan's very own Hanguang Jun?

As Wei Wuxian prepared to close his eyes and sleep, a low, pleasant sound filled his ears. It took a moment in his sleepy haze to realize it was Lan Wangji's mellow humming. Wei Wuxian would recognize the song anywhere. At first, he had no recollection of where the memory was from, only knowing that it brought warmth and comfort to him. For the nth time that night, Wei Wuxian's heart brimmed with all sorts and mixes of emotions, so much he thought it would burst.

Instead of bothering Lan Wangji about the name of the song like he usually would, Wei Wuxian's eyes fluttered shut and he shifted in Lan Wangji's arms so his lips touched Lan Wangji's throat. The subtle vibration in his throat accompanying the hauntingly sad tune soothed Wei Wuxian, and he eased into slumber before Lan Wangji finished his song.

Nearly a week had passed since Wei Wuxian's little incident down the mountain Cloud Recesses was situated upon. Lan Wangji, who obviously had no idea how to deal with Wei Wuxian's ankle, resorted to using his spiritual power to try and speed up the healing. It did work, a little. The swelling had lessened, and the skin was definitely less purple and more red and yellowy looking. Wei Wuxian took this as a good sign. Lan Wangji also spent more time tending to Wei Wuxian's demands and requests. As bad as Wei Wuxian felt for taking Lan Wangji's attention away from his work, he was filed with glee each time he called for Lan Wangji and the other appeared at his side.

"Lan Zhan!" He called, sitting up in bed to aim his inquiry to the older man seated at his desk, rifling through assignments. "I'm hungry," he said once he had gained Lan Wangji's attention. "Can we go get something to eat? I need fresh air, so don't bother sending for someone. Besides, it's late for them. Come get me." It was not a total exaggeration. Lan Wangji had promised he would be allowed to go out and about /after/ his injury had healed, which it had evidently not. Lan Wangji also insisted he carry Wei Wuxian around. The latter disagreed, and they compromised with piggyback rides (sometimes. Lan Wangji still had his way most of the time). Wei Wuxian often worried that /someone/ in Cloud Recesses would see and it would completely destroy Lan Wangji's reputation, but it was dark enough outside Wei Wuxian figured it would not matter much this time.

@Wei Wuxian When Wei Wuxian hid his face in Lan Wangji's neck, the older instinctively reached a hand up, resting it on the back of the other's head, patting his hair gently, The forehead ribbon that connected their wrists, just like the time when they had met the Gusu Lan ancestor Lan Yi in the back cave of the mountains. Taking the other's hand in his own again, Lan Wangji nodded, "En." when Wei Wuxian called his name.

"I missed you. I missed you a lot."

/"I am here. I will always be here. The tenderness and pampering that the world owes you, I will slowly make it up to you, every single day for the rest of this life. For every life./ Lan Wangji's mouth twitched, as if he was challenging himself to his limit, to say those words, to brave it out and admit it to the other male. Still, his heart and his mouth seemed to be at a disconnect. "Wei Ying, I am here." he gently soothed the smaller male, "Will never leave you."

That night, Lan Wangji held Wei Wuxian in his arms, gently rocking the other male. Lan Wangji remembered the one thing Wei Wuxian had requested of him when the younger male was injured in the Xuanwu Cave. It was the one request that brought them back together sixteen years later, and the only wish Lan Wangji had ever fulfilled for Wei Wuxian after realizing his feelings for the younger male. He began to hum the tune. The same tune from that many years ago, the same tune that he had repeatedly refuse to tell Wei Wuxian the name to.

He hummed it just loud enough for Wei Wuxian to hear, continuing until the male wore himself out and fell asleep. Lan Wangji carefully laid Wei Wuxian down, removing his other show and pulling the covers over the smaller male. They could bathe tomorrow, he decided. And he would personally help Wei Wuxian bath from head to toe. Removing his outer robe, Lan Wangji got into bed, tucking himself against Wei Wuxian and letting the smaller's body mold against his own. He leaned in, placing another kiss on the smaller's forehead, then closing his eyes and reminding himself of the lessons he learned today that he would keep in his heart forever.

@Lan Wangji "I can't do that."

Wei Wuxian's breath caught in his throat. He bowed his head, an ever familiar heat spreading across his cheeks and his eyes. When he looked up back at Lan Wangji, his eyes shimmered, the wetness reflecting the glow of candle light. This man, this supposedly untouchable and unreachable man, worried for Wei Wuxian. The concern he held for Wei Wuxian was so obvious, yet Wei Wuxian still had the audacity to gripe and moan and fight Lan Wangji about his foot.

Just let him worry, Wei Wuxian tried to tell himself. He's happy when he's worrying.

"I can't not worry about you, either," Wei Wuxian said quietly, his hand trembling slightly as he he reached into his sleeve and pulled out Lan Wangji's forehead ribbon. Unravelling the carefully folded strip of cloth, Wei Wuxian smoothed it out. It was long, of course. Even when it was tied around Lan Wangji's forehead, the tail ends reached the small of Lan Wangji's back. After much careful deliberation, Wei Wuxian first wrapping one end around Lan Wangji's wrist, then the free end around his own.

To himself, he swore he would never let Lan Wangji worry again.

"Lan Zhan," he mumbled, hiding his faintly pink face in Lan Wangji's neck, softening into Lan Wangji's arms. He had so many things to tell Lan Wangji. He wanted to thank him, tell him he loved him, beg him for forgiveness. Yet at the same time, none of these words made their way to the surface. They sat in his heart, in his jumble of thoughts, unsure of how to make themselves known.

Thinking back to the time they had in Wei Wuxian's first life, he couldn't help but regret how he interpreted Lan Wangji's cool demeanour towards him. He, along with Jiang Cheng, convinced himself that the forbidden fruit that was Lan Wangji despised him. All those years, if Wei Wuxian had not been so foolish...

In the end, Wei Wuxian only blurted out, "I missed you. I missed you a lot."

@Wei Wuxian Lan Wangji almost gasped when Wei Wuxian suddenly removed his foot from his lap, the other male seemingly wanting to brush off the injury even though it looked so painful. Lan Wangji held his arms out as Wei Wuxian suddenly made an attempt to crawl over to him, the younger looking like a defenseless kitten with his sullen expression and weak movements. Collecting Wei Wuxian into his arms, the older male looked down, almost coddling Wei Wuxian against his chest.

"Leave it alone, Lan Zhan," the younger male said, as usual, trying to use his line about a man needing to have a few injuries and scars to make Lan Wangji less concerned. And as usual, it didn't really work. He sighed softly when Wei Wuxian kissed him, adding, "But don't worry about me."

/"That's impossible."/ Lan Wangji was already thinking to himself, his intense gaze trying to tell Wei Wuxian he was making ridiculous requests again. His brows were slightly creased, giving off the expression that he was upset Wei Wuxian would even consider the possibility of Lan Wangji not worrying about him. However, taking notes of his own facial reactions, he tried to calm down, then looking away and murmuring, "I can't do that." Swallowing hard, Lan Wangji leaned in and pressed a kiss to Wei Wuxian's forehead as well, closing his eyes through the action. Nothing seemed to be going their way recently, and this would only make his Wei Ying feel even more downcast than usual. Lan Wangji murmured softly against the other's forehead, "Really can't do that."

@Lan Wangji "Twisted ankles...how to care for?"

Lan Wangji's fingers were cool against his heated, swollen ankle, providing Wei Wuxian the slightest bit of relief. He exhaled shakily, leaning forward to push Lan Wangji's hand off his foot. "It hurts," Wei Wuxian mewled as pitifully as he could. If he was not able to leave Cloud Recesses behind for now, Lan Wangji better be prepared to stay with him until he recovered. "I don't know. I only hurt my ankle once, when I was really young. Shijie... took care of me."

A thin sheen of sweat was forming over his paling face. Wei Wuxian wasn't going to lie, it /hurt/, especially so in his new, weaker body. He had no more energy to keep up his lively, bouncing persona, all because of his dumb mistake. Carefully, Wei Wuxian pulled his leg off of Lan Wangji's lap, gritting his teeth as he crawled over and sat himself on Lan Wangji instead. Without the patience to play coy and wait for Lan Wangji to get over his foot and coddle him, Wei Wuxian decided to take the matter into his own hands. He didn't want to focus to be on his injury, like he was some delicate maiden.

Lan Wangji looked and sounded so helpless, Wei Wuxian wanted to coo. "Leave it alone, Lan Zhan," he urged. "I'm a man. What's a man without a few scars or injuries, huh?" His hand cupped Lan Wangji's cheek, and he stretched up to kiss the older man's cheek, hoping to ease the worry out of his pretty eyes. "Thank you for carrying me back," he whispered, gazing up sincerely into the other's golden pools of eyes. Wei Wuxian felt as if he could lose himself in there forever and be alright with it. "But don't worry about me."

@Wei Wuxian Although Lan Wangji did feel bad for listening to Wei Wuxian's request once again, he overrided the emotion with the priority of the other's injury first. Sighing softly as they headed up, he continuously shook his head every time Wei Wuxian asked to be put down. "Not putting you down." he murmured, looking at Wei Wuxian apologetically. Though, he wasn't sure the other male would be able to tell, considering that it was so dark out and Wei Wuxian was quite upset at their sudden change of plans.

When they got back to the silent Chamber, Lan Wangji had brought Wei Wuxian over to the bed, the smaller male almost falling out of his hold as if he were desperately trying to escape. Lan Wangji took a deep breath, then crouched down again, removing Wei Wuxian's shoes for him. Indeed, it was just as he expected. There was already a dark red bruise over the eye of his ankle, the skin swollen from that fall. Lan Wangji's heart was wrenching in pain once again as the smaller male tried to insist that he was fine.

"...I just wanted to go out," Wei Wuxian said, the most dejected Lan Wangji had ever heard the smaller male's voice, "Now I've ruined it."

Lan Wangji took Wei Wuxian's foot, placing it on his lap as he sat on the edge of the bed. "I will bring you out." he promised, "As soon as you get better. You can go out, everyday. Anytime you want." In the past, Lan Wangji had always wanted to accompany Wei Wuxian out of the Cloud Recesses because he felt so...scared of letting the younger out of his sight. The Cloud Recesses were the only safe place in the world that Lan Wangji knew he could protect Wei Wuxian in. Everywhere else, he wanted to be there to protect Wei Wuxian. However, even now the Cloud Recesses proved too dangerous, as it was harming Wei Wuxian's mentality from keeping him cooped up inside, and even the physical landscape was against them, making the other trip and fall like that. Lan Wangji knew he had to be more trusting. Even if he couldn't trust the world, he could trust his Wei Ying to always return to him.

He gently placed his index finger and middle finger along the swollen tendon , giving it a soft rub. He didn't dare to put pressure, knowing that since it was just injured, the pain would be unbearable. Lan Wangji was no expert at dealing with injuries, but the size of the swelling drove concern deep onto his facial expressions. He blew at Wei Wuxian's foot gently, as if that would do anything to alleviate the pain. "Twisted ankles...how to care for?" he asked, looking at Wei Wuxian rather helplessly again.

@Lan Wangji "I'm okay," Wei Wuxian reassured Lan Wangji, his weight bearing down on the other's arm to support himself standing. "Let's keep going." Wei Wuxian forced them to take another couple steps, already wincing when even the tiniest bit of weight was distributed to his foot. Lan Wangji stopped him, and it was not as if Wei Wuxian could yank his leg out of Lan Wangji's grasp when the other knelt to examine his ankle.

"You're injured."

"It's nothing," Wei Wuxian insisted. Lan Wangji obviously did not buy it, because the next thing Wei Wuxian knew, his feet were lifted clear off the floor and he was tilted backwards. He tensed, preparing to fall, but Lan Wangji's warmth enveloped him. As much as Wei Wuxian loved the feeling of being held by his partner, now was not exactly the time for it. "No! What are you doing? Put me down, I'm fine," Wei Wuxian protested, kicking his uninjured leg indignantly when Lan Wangji turned and began to head back up the mountain instead. "Lan Zhan!"

"I will buy wine for you tomorrow."

Wei Wuxian didn't really want wine, he just wanted to leave Cloud Recesses for just a bit. In his stupidity, however, he was sure he had just earned himself a year of confinement in there. Judging my Lan Wangji's exclamation when Wei Wuxian fell, the former would never let Wei Wuxian /walk/ anywhere else for the rest of his life. "Lan Zhan, I promise you, I'm fine," he said, giving Lan Wangji's chest a hard poke. "Lan Zhan, are you listening to me? Put me down right now."

Lan Wangji, of course, did not put him down. Even when they arrived at the Silent Chamber, Wei Wuxian had to twist and tumble out of Lan Wangji's arms, nearly tripping as he stumbled his landing. "See?" he said, contempt tinting his words. He lowered himself carefully onto their bed, his features scrunching up as he elevated his injured foot slightly. The swelling was getting worse by the minute, but Wei Wuxian did not want to admit that he was wrong. "...I just wanted to go out," he finally said in a small voice, staring pitifully at his foot. "Now I've ruined it."

@Wei Wuxian Although it was dark outside, Lan Wangji didn't mind, as it meant that Wei Wuxian could freely hold onto his arm, the return of the bounce in the smaller's steps seeming to have removed a large boulder from Lan Wangji's chest. Though he would usually have one arm around his back while the other held onto Bichen, today, Lan Wangji's arm closer to Wei Wuxian was hanging down, simply letting the smaller male attach himself close. Every once in a while or so, he would glance over in Wei Wuxian's direction, his half-lidded eyes seeming to narrow as another smile crept its way onto his face.

They were about halfway down the mountain, just as the steepest part of the slope when Wei Wuxian suddenly released Lan Wangji's arm to stretch. Just as Lan Wangji took another step forward, the figure to his side disappeared, Wei Wuxian falling onto the ground. His eyes widened as he hurriedly crouched down to see if Wei Wuxian had hurt himself, "Wei Ying-!" he called, this time Lan Wangji taking hold of the smaller's arm, helping him up as he asked, "Are you hurt?" he asked.

Wei Wuxian still had the grin on his face, which Lan Wangji couldn't read the degree of his injury from. However, when they continued to take a few steps forward, he realized just how much the smaller male was putting on him, even taking uneven steps although this part of the mountain required stable steps and a good pressure on the heel. Lan Wangji furrowed his brows, turning to Wei Wuxian, preventing the smaller from taking another step forward. He crouched down, pushing Wei Wuxian's robes aside so he could examine his ankle. There was a visible redness that Lan Wangji could discern from dim moonlight. There was a noticeable area around Wei Wuxian's ankle that was darker than the area surrounding it, making Lan Wangji look up at him in concern, "You're injured."

Instead of going all the way down the mountain as they had planned, Lan Wangji hoisted Wei Wuxian into his arms again, turning to climb back up, promising, "I will buy wine for you tomorrow." He didn't want to hear the protests, feeling that he shouldn't have offered this so late at night in the first place. He sighed softly, holding Wei Wuxian bridal style in his arms, refusing to put the other down regardless of the excuses he heard. Lan Wangji would take care of Wei Wuxian from beginning to end, take responsibility as he should.

@Lan Wangji As much as Wei Wuxian wanted to continue brooding, but it was hard when Lan Wangji was acting like a kicked puppy, his face buried in Wei Wuxian's neck. Slowly, Wei Wuxian's arms tightened around Lan Wangji's torso, his hand shaking with how hard he clutched the forehead ribbon. Lan Wangji would never mean for Wei Wuxian to feel the way he did, yet Wei Wuxian was projecting all his negative energy out on the older. He crammed himself back against Lan Wangji with a sniffle, his cheek pressing against Lan Wangji's face. They sat, locked in each other's embrace, until the sun had almost set completely.

"Wei Ying."

"Hmm?"

"Let's go to town. Buy wine."

Wei Wuxian lifted his head from his resumed drawing, unsure if he had heard Lan Wangji correctly. The past two months, it had always been Wei Wuxian pleading for them to leave Cloud Recesses, even for just a bit. Lan Wangji could not find enough time to take him, and Wei Wuxian was not allowed to go on his own either. "Okay," he said quickly, before Lan Wangji could change his mind. He smiled, for the first time in a while, rising quickly on unsteady feet. "Okay!"

It was dark enough once they reached the gate of Cloud Recesses that Wei Wuxian dared to loop his arm around Lan Wangji's elbow as they descended the mountain. His heart was light, and there was slight bounce in his step. However short their excursion had to be due to curfew, Wei Wuxian was willing to overlook. The Annual Study was almost over, and that meant Lan Wangji would probably not be so much busier. He could wait that long, Wei Wuxian tried to tell himself.

In his elation, Wei Wuxian did not pay much attention to where he was stepping. He had just taken his arm away from Lan Wangji to raise them in a stretch, wanting to alleviate the strain in his back he had developed recently (from Gods knows what) when his foot landed a step unevenly. Only his heel caught onto the mossy stone step, and he fell forward with a shout of surprise. He did not land far from where he fell - it was only a few steps, but his impact with the cold, hard ground sent a jolt up his spine. He winced visibly, cursing himself internally for his clumsiness. He was a cultivator, and he used to be a damn good one at that - when did all his grace leave him?

Wei Wuxian planted his palms into the ground, and tried to push himself back up, only to discover the tautness in his right ankle when he tried to stand. Under the shrouded moonlight, it looked fine for now. Not wanting to alarm Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian sat back down, grinning up at the other man. "Aiya," he said, using his left leg to support his weight instead to successfully lift himself up. "How clumsy-"

@Wei Wuxian Lan Wangji still insisted on saying those two words even though he and Wei Wuxian had established that they would never have to use those words with each other. However, Lan Wangji said them because it served as a reminder for himself. Everyday that he had to use those words meant everyday that was not being attentive enough to Wei Wuxian, not devoted enough. If there was truly never a need to use those words, it would only be when Lan Wangji was dedicated enough.

Lan Wangji's hand rested at the small of the other's back, pressing Wei Wuxian against him and burying his face into the crook of the smaller's neck. He inhaled sharply, taking in Wei Wuxian's scent and nuzzling against the other's skin. Busy or not, Lan Wangji decided that none of it mattered anymore. He had gotten too preoccupied with matters that the most important thing had been obscured, although Wei Wuxian was always sitting in front of him, lying beside him, standing with him. Closing his eyes, Lan Wangji sat with the smaller in his lap for another moment in the silence.

That evening, the pile of scrolls stayed untouched on Lan Wangji's desk. The bigger male seemed to have lost focus of everything else, his attention reserved for Wei Wuxian alone. Reverting to his self from two months ago, Lan Wangji gave Wei Wuxian free reigns over what he wanted to do. The older male would simply follow suit, content just to see the smile on Wei Wuxian's face again. As he had already noted many times, Wei Wuxian's face was born to be a smiling one. The radiance of those lips that curved upwards, the way that his eyes would crinkle as his cheeks lifted upwards and his teeth revealed themselves, Lan Wangji wanted to be enshrouded by that brightness, the luminosity. "Wei Ying," he suggested, "Let's go to town. Buy wine."

@Lan Wangji Wei Wuxian held back a (very unmanly) squeak when Lan Wangji drew him into a sudden embrace, their chests pressing together. He stilled, tensing as though Lan Wangji were a predator and he was prey caught in his clutches, but at the first gentle touch of Lan Wangji's hands cupping his sides, Wei Wuxian relaxed. He let out the breath he'd been holding, allowing himself to melt into Lan Wangji's arms. It was alright. Whatever issues he thought he had, they were no more. His life was perfect if Lan Wangji was holding him.

Wei Wuxian almost did not notice the edge of the porcelain cup touching his lips. He accepted the drink offered to him, relishing the feeling of the hot liquid run down his throat. Lan Wangji was gentle, almost hesitant when he touched his sleeve to Wei Wuxian's mouth. The latter's heart was impossibly full, and he immediately felt extremely guilty for the misgivings he secretly held against Lan Wangji.

His heart nearly stopped when Lan Wangji closed his hand around the ribbon. In a very rare moment, Wei Wuxian was at a loss for words. He knew just how sacred the forehead ribbon was, and here was Lan Wangji, looking like he was on the verge of tears as he offered Wei Wuxian his ribbon, his devotion.

"Silly," Wei Wuxian managed when he could speak, his voice scratchy and hoarse. "What are you sorry for? I thought we agreed that we're past apologizing to each other." Slowly, he felt his arms regaining their strength and he lifted them to wrap around Lan Wangji's waist, closing the last bit of distance between them. Terribly sad, yet filled with joy, Wei Wuxian blinked hard to keep his eyes from tearing up. "Enough, Lan Zhan. You have nothing to be sorry for. Never say that to me, please."

@Wei Wuxian "Let me brew some tea," Wei Wuxian suddenly said, and Lan Wangji thought he could hear the sound of his own heart plummet. Of course, it wasn't as if Wei Wuxian could just grab some wine. The few jars that Lan Wangji had hidden long ago had diminished long ago, and he had been so forgetful to even replenish it. He closed his eyes, turning his head away as Wei Wuxian shuffled through the steps of preparing the tea, and Lan Wangji didn't even feel like he had the right to accept the cup from the smaller male.

Still, he took it, raising it to his lips and taking a sip nonetheless. His throat had been dry from lecture, and with that one sip, he balled up his other first, and brazened his resolution. Upon setting the cup down, Lan Wangji looked at Wei Wuxian again, taking in that sullen look on the other's face. He wanted this to be last time he ever saw this look on Wei Wuxian's face, he'd hide this image in the depths of his heart, in hopes that Wei Wuxian would never have to look like this again. Reaching out, he swiftly pulled the smaller male against him, holding him tight. What Lan Wangji couldn't express with words, he'd express with his actions.

He didn't kiss Wei Wuxian, didn't force Wei Wuxian onto the bed, didn't even make a tug at the smaller's clothing. As much as he loved to, those actions might misconstrue his attention. Caressing the smaller male like a delicate porcelain, Lan Wangji looked into Wei Wuxian's eyes, his gaze unwavering. Taking the cup that was just placed on the table, Lan Wangji raised it to Wei Wuxian's lips, which were slightly dry. He wanted to take care of Wei Wuxian, to cherish him for all that he was worth. When Wei Wuxian eventually did, Lan Wangji used the sleeve of his robe, dabbing the corner of the smaller's lip gently, tenderly.

He reached his hand up again, this time to his forehead ribbon, removing it from his head and placing it in Wei Wuxian's hand, his hand manipulating Wei Wuxian's fingers so that the smaller male's hand wrapped around the metal plating of his ribbon. His gaze had never once shifted from Wei Wuxian throughout all these actions, and finally, Lan Wangji opened his mouth, "I'm sorry."