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Chapter Text

“Jiejie, what’s be...be…” Young Jiang Cheng’s nose scrunches in frustration, trying his hardest to get the word right. “ Bethohed ?”

“Betrothed, A-Cheng,” his sister corrects him with a tinkling laugh. “It means being engaged, and that means I will be marrying that person when I grow up, in the future.”

“Oh. But I don’t like him,” Jiang Cheng comments with an annoyed huff at the memory of a frowning boy clad in gold and cream, always half-hidden behind Auntie Jin’s robes. “He won’t play with us. He’s no fun.”

“Oh? I find him quite...pleasant. And handsome, too.” His sister’s cheeks turn pink, her eyes crinkling with her smile. But he still doesn’t get it. That golden boy barely says a word or two to them before running off to stick to his mother again. What part of that is pleasant? “And I find it nice, the thought that there will be a person who will be with me, always. Just like Mother and Father.”

Jiang Cheng perks up at that. It does sound nice, having someone who will play with you and do things with you together, all the time. Father and Mother are busy most of the days. His Jiejie does keep him company, outside of when either of them have lessons or practice. But one day, his Jiejie will marry that horrible boy and go with Madame Jin to live with them.

The little Jiang boy frowns at the thought. He really doesn’t like that. 

“I want a betrothed too.” He puffs out his chest, confident of having said the word right this time around.

His sister laughs, carding his hair with one hand and hugging him close with another. “Well then, why don’t you go to Father and Mother and ask for one?”

“I don’t want Mother to choose for me.” His mother did choose that unfriendly golden boy, after all. “I’ll find one on my own,” he says, with a tone of finality.

“I hope you do, one day, A-Cheng.” Jiejie gives him a gentle smile, which he returns with a grin.

In the end, that ‘one day’ comes not too long after.

Qinghe Nie Sect delegations are in Yunmeng for a diplomatic visit. A rare occasion, as the saber-wielding sect is famous for their reputation of safe-guarding their method of cultivation.

Jiang Cheng watches in awe whenever a member of the Nie Sect crosses his way, every single one of them standing tall, towering over his six-year-old self, with their magnificent-looking saber strapped to their sides.

They are so cool .

The Sect heir, Nie Ming Jue, is not older than Jiang Cheng, even a couple of years older than Yanli-jie, and he looks no less intimidating, standing next to his father, Sect Leader Nie. Sporting harsh frowns, the pair of father and son emits an aura that speaks of pure, unadulterated power. 

While his parents hold a discussion with Sect Leader Nie, Jiang Cheng roams the grounds for more glimpses of Yunmeng’s guest. He just came back from an excursion to the town with his group of cohort, and he missed the welcoming of their visitors. He’s determined to look his fill now, to make up for it.

It’s by the lotus pond that he finds an unfamiliar face who looks nothing like their other guests.

Jiang Cheng finds a small boy who looks around his own age, holding not a saber but a folding fan, his face not with a harsh frown but a sad one, his eyes shining with unshed tears. His round face is framed by his bangs, making him look all soft.

Intrigued despite himself, Jiang Cheng approaches the boy. “Who are you?”

The boy flinches at Jiang Cheng’s tone, tears finally trickling down his cheeks. Startled, Jiang Cheng furrows his brows and wipes the tears away with the hem of his robes in panic. He tries again, now lowering his voice, trying to imitate the way his sister speaks to him when he’s upset. “Don’t cry. Are you from the Nie Sect? Why are you here?”

“Nie Huaisang…” the boy whispers in answer, not pulling away from Jiang Cheng’s hand still draped across his round cheek, blinking slowly. “My father has a meeting and my brother went with him, so I’m looking at the lotus flowers. We don’t have them in Qinghe. They are very pretty.”

Jiang Cheng nods somberly in agreement. “They are. But there’s still time until the full bloom,” he imitates the garden’s caretaker word for word. “Are you Sect Leader Nie’s son?” The boy nods, confirming Jiang Cheng’s educated guess. “I’m Jiang Cheng, Sect Leader Jiang’s son.”

The boy—Nie Huaisang’s uncertain gaze morphs into one of surprise, his mouth forming a silent ‘oh’. “Nice to meet you, Young Master Jiang.”

Finally, the corners of the boy’s mouth rise up into a smile. And something akin to satisfaction blooms in Jiang Cheng’s chest. 

“Why are you crying?” The look in Nie Huaisang’s eyes goes distant again at the question, his smile faltering. Jiang Cheng frowns. He rubs the ends of the boy’s lips with his thumb, trying to return them back up again. The other lets him do it, not the slightest bit bothered by the young Jiang heir’s touch.

“The lotuses are just so pretty that I thought my mother would like them too.” His eyes are wet again , Jiang Cheng thought with irritation. “I miss her a lot.” Nie Huaisang’s voice falls into a whisper, as if he’s giving out a secret.

Jiang Cheng faintly remembers his mother mentioning Sect Leader Nie’s wife succumbing to a long-standing illness over dinner, not that long ago.

His other arm snakes around the smaller boy’s back, rubbing soothing circles, in remembrance of his own sister’s comforting touch. “You shouldn’t cry when you look at beautiful things. Then your mother wouldn’t worry about you.”

A pair of hands clutches the fan even more closely, almost hugging it to his chest. “My brother says that too, that I shouldn’t cry so much. That mother wouldn’t be able to rest because she’s worried about me.”

Jiang Cheng nods, agreeing to the Nie heir’s sentiments. Without knowing a clear reason why, he decides that Nie Huaisang should be smiling more, not crying. He slowly guides the other boy to sit next to him by the edge of the pond, small legs dangling over the water surface.

“Have you tried eating lotus pods?” At the shake of the other’s head, Jiang Cheng follows with an offer to take him to taste Yunmeng’s different kinds of delicacies later. For now, the two sit side by side, Jiang Cheng talking and coaxing smile after smile from the other. 

He talks of Yunmeng, and asks about Qinghe in return. Nie Huaisang doesn’t care much about the cool sabers, instead telling him about the quiet forests of Qinghe surrounding the Unclean Realm, of mountains of stone that stretches as far as the eyes can go. And while there are several sad smiles still lingering, and a few tears—which Jiang Cheng rubs away dutifully—the two boys leave the lotus pond, both content with their newfound friendship.

The easy companionship continues—the trips to the kitchen, as Jiang Cheng requests the cook to make all sorts of meals the Sect heir wants his young guest to try. The walks to the bustling town with his sister, who of course coos at Nie Huaisang’s round cheeks and round eyes at first sight, taking both boys under her wings as they introduce their new friend to the sights and noises of their home. The peaceful conversations by the lotus pond, Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang sitting side by side as they talk about everything and anything that passes their minds.

Nie Huaisang has opened up in the span of days, his smiles blooming like lotus flowers in July, his laughter more free, more unrestrained and easily given.

(Jiang Cheng’s favourite is when they were playing by the riverbanks, Nie Huaisang peals of laughter turning into gleeful squeals as Jiang Cheng splashes him with water, running around only to trip and fall, resulting in two very much drenched boys, before they collapse into each other giggling uncontrollably.)

Jiang Cheng doesn’t have many friends. He has an idea why. He’s not like his sister, with her gentle smiles and ever friendly words. Not like his father, with his patient smile and calm bearing. He is so much like his mother. Cutting. With a temper.

Things have been going so well with Nie Huaisang that he almost forgets his own nature. A week has gone by since he’s met his new friend, and there is only one day left before Nie Huaisang goes back to the Unclean Realm. The looming departure has given him prickles that grow stronger each day in his chest, and with the unavoidable day almost here, Jiang Cheng finally explodes.

“I told you I don’t want you here! Go away!” Why? It has been so nice, why does Jiang Cheng have to ruin everything in the end? He wants to cry but redirects the energy to scream instead. “ Go away! ”

“A-Cheng…” Nie Huaisang has followed Jiejie’s cue on how to call Jiang Cheng, the intimate term of address flowing naturally through his lips. His voice trembles as he tries again, “A-Cheng, please .”

Jiang Cheng hates it when Nie Huaisang cries. He fights the urge to take the other boy into his arms, clenching his hands so that it won’t find the other’s to offer comfort, like he had done before. Nie Huaisang will be leaving anyway, and with how Jiang Cheng is behaving, he probably won’t ever want to come back.

Jiang Cheng hates himself sometimes.

“A-Cheeeng…” Nie Huaisang’s sniffles have turned into outright sobs, each one stabbing him in the heart. “A-Cheng, can I hold your hands? Please?” The second son of Nie reaches out both arms toward Jiang Cheng, and before Jiang Cheng can harden his resolve to stay still, takes them, and the two latch onto each other. “I don’t want to go home, A-Cheng, I want to stay with you…”

“But you’re going to.” Jiang Cheng snaps back petulantly, poison dripping from each word. And he hates it, he hates how his best friend—his only friend, he loathes to admit—can’t stay. And he knows Nie Huaisang shares his feelings, but he can’t help but hate it .

Regardless of Jiang Cheng’s rough tone, and his whole being oozes spite, Nie Huaisang sidles up to him, fitting himself cozily in Jiang Cheng’s embrace, sniffling and sobbing into his shoulder. Other children would be scrambling away, fleeing Young Master Jiang’s wrath by now, but Nie Huaisang simply stays, hugging Jiang Cheng close.

He wants to cry, but Jiang Cheng grits his teeth instead, his face wrinkling into a scowl.

“You know, back at home, my father is always so busy with his work. Brother takes care of me and plays with me sometimes, but he has more fun while practicing with the other disciples.” Nie Huaisang’s breaths calm under Jiang Cheng’s ministrations, keeping a steady rub on his back. A cold nose tickles Jiang Cheng’s neck, but the young boy keeps still. “Mother used to stay with me and we used to paint fans together…” He trails off, hugging Jiang Cheng tighter. “I want to stay here with A-Cheng. I wish I could stay here forever.” Nie Huaisang ends, his voice lilting into a sulk.

An idea flits through Jiang Cheng’s head.

“A-Sang,” Jiang Cheng gasps in realization, his eyes bright with excitement, a conspiratorial grin quickly forming across his face. “I think I know a way for us to do that.”

“You want to what ?!” Sect Leader Nie splutters.

“Sect Leader Nie,” Jiang Cheng tries to emulate his mother, when she’s talking over the Jiang Sect disciples, getting them to listen to her orders. “I would like to get betrothed to your son.” Then he adds, just to make sure. “Nie Huaisang.”

Jiang Cheng can feel eyes on him. His father’s, especially his mother’s. His sister’s, holding in her giggles. Sect Leader Nie’s incredulous stare. And Nie Mingjue’s wrathful glare.

“Please, Father?” Nie Huaisang squeaks from next to him, their fingers tangled together, standing shoulder to shoulder in a united front.

Sect Leader Nie turns to Jiang Cheng’s parents. And then back to him, his face unreadable. “Hm, I don’t know…” The Sect Leader averts his gaze once more, rubbing his chin absentmindedly. “What do you say, Sect Leader Jiang? Madame Yu?”

“I think,” His mother starts with a hiss, “that my son is behaving impolitely by even considering such a ridiculous notion.”

“Jiang Cheng…” His father kneels, leveling his eyes with theirs. “Why do you suddenly want an engagement with Second Young Master Nie?”

“Jiejie got a betrothed, why can’t I have one too?” Jiang Cheng challenges. He almost stomps his feet in protest, but lets out a dignified ‘hmph!’ instead. 

“I’m not going back home until me and A-Cheng gets engaged!” Nie Huaisang backs him up with a stubborn pout, looking ready to wail at the top of his lungs if he doesn’t get his way.

The adults look helplessly at each other before ushering the children out of the room.

The second they step into the hall, Jiang Yanli bursts into laughter, patting both Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang on their heads. Nie Mingjue plucks his brother out of Jiang Cheng’s hands with a growl, “What is wrong with you two? Can’t you behave?”

“But Mingjue-ge!” Nie Huaisang whines as he tries to wriggle out of his brother’s hold.

The Nie heir grumbles under his breath about his ridiculous brother and his ridiculous friend, and Jiang Cheng sticks his tongue out at him while the older teen is not looking in a childish show of defiance. 

After a long bout of discussion, the adults finally relented to the young boys’ wishes.

(Jiang Cheng’s mother has tried to explain, in vain, about cultivation partners and about the issue of difficulty producing direct heirs, which young Jiang Cheng doesn’t care to understand, opting to shriek, “To attempt the impossible!”

His father chuckles at that, and Sect Leader Nie howls out a guffaw.

And that was that.)

Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang part ways with matching grins, with promises to write and visit, having procured the adults’ assurance that an arrangement will be made. Exchanging enthusiastic waves of goodbye, the heir of Yunmeng Jiang counts the days until he will meet his friend—no, his betrothed now—again.

Chapter Text

The day Sect Leader Jiang brings back a thin boy with huge, curious eyes named Wei Ying falls during Nie Huaisang’s scheduled visit to Yunmeng.

The boy, who gives out smiles easily to anyone he encounters, is to stay and be raised in Lotus Pier from now on.

Nie Huaisang’s eyes glance at Sect Leader Jiang’s pleased expression then flits away just in time to catch the downturn tug at the corner of Madame Yu’s mouth. He squeezes Jiang Cheng’s hand in his, falling half a step behind the other boy.

“Hello! I’m Wei Ying!” The boy throws a sunny grin at them and wave in greeting.

The pair follow Jiang Yanli’s cue, returning the greeting, staring curiously at the unfamiliar child, a little unsure of what to do next. The awkward moment doesn’t last long as Wei Ying is quickly ushered away to get himself acquainted with his newly-acquired home. Nie Huaisang takes the chance to pull Jiang Cheng away, toward their assigned spot by the lotus pond.

“It will be nice, I think, to have a new friend to play with,” Nie Huaisang starts.

Jiang Cheng shrugs, leaning his weight against Nie Huaisang. “It’s already nice when it’s the two of us.”

“But you get lonely whenever I leave,” Nie Huaisang teases, nudging the other with his shoulder, the movement rocking them both to the side.

“I do not ,” Jiang Cheng huffs, but after a beat, he continues, “Maybe a little. But we have our letters. So it’s fine .”

After their engagement is established, the two have been writing back and forth continuously, exchanging details of their days without the other. The adults, as promised, have arranged for Nie Huaisang to visit Lotus Pier and for Jiang Cheng to visit The Unclean Realm in a constant frequency. Even then, the short visits are never enough for the pair, both always left feeling bereft whenever they need to part.

Nie Huaisang hums. “Still, at least it will be interesting.” He pauses, staring at a distance. He leans toward Jiang Cheng, resting his head on the other’s shoulder. “So, what time are we going to walk the dogs tomorrow? Let’s go before Mingjue-ge can drag me to practice!”

Every single time Nie Huaisang is set to go to Lotus Pier, it is Nie Mingjue who is assigned to tag along to keep him company, but mostly to keep an eye on him. Usually, after a few hours, his brother being his brother will be off to the training grounds, dragging a Jiang Sect member who looks even remotely idle to trade blows. Most of them have gotten familiar with the Nie family heir over their numerous visits, and some even have learned to stay out of the way to avoid getting a beating from the vigorous teen.

(Nie Mingjue’s booming laugh and the screams of the unlucky Jiang sect member of the day have become a daily occurence, the main source of Madame Yu’s growing headaches. She is getting tired of snapping at the group of fools to get their act together and ordering them to stop being a disgrace by not to get trashed so badly every single day!

This leaves Nie Huaisang as much time with Jiang Cheng as he likes, which is perfect. Though from time to time, his brother will actually remember his duty and drag him to practice his saber, and as much as he whines, Mingjue-ge reminds him that it’s his job not to let Huaisang laze around.)

“Let’s go in the morning, before it gets too hot!” Jiang Cheng brightens up, his eyes twinkling at the mention of his three new puppies. Jasmine, Princess, and Little Love. Nie Huaisang finds it precious, how Jiang Cheng can’t help but give his pets cute, albeit very tacky names. He doesn’t have the heart to suggest alternative names. “Do you think Jiejie would like to join us? She usually has so much to do in the morning.”

The next day, just as they’re about to set off on their walk, Jiang Cheng holding two leashes proudly and letting Nie Huaisang to hold one, the newest resident of Lotus Pier, Wei Ying starts to scream and scream and scream, at the sight of the dogs.

The two boys are so startled by the scene, they can do nothing but gape in shock. Sect Leader Jiang then comes in a hurry, sweeping Wei Ying into his arms, offering words of comfort. 

Nie Huaisang comes back to his senses, pulling Jiang Cheng, whose wide eyes are glued at his father, and the puppies away, putting distance between them and the frightened boy, without looking back. Jiang Cheng follows behind him in silence.

When he reaches a nook where not a lot of people pass through, he sits Jiang Cheng down and takes the other’s face into his hands. The puppies are crowding them, poking with their noses for attention, but Nie Huaisang opts to focus on looking into Jiang Cheng’s crumbling face. He then tugs Jiang Cheng close, letting his forehead to rest at the crook of Nie Huaisang’s neck, caressing Jiang Cheng’s back.

“Father doesn’t even carry me like that…” Jiang Cheng mutters weakly. 

As the heir of the Jiang Sect, Jiang Cheng hasn’t been coddled since a young age, Nie Huaisang finds out from Yanli-jie, taught early to be the proper Young Master he is. Even if Jiang Cheng is known for having a prickly temper, deep down, he knows his betrothed is a sensitive boy who thrives on affection. He’s just bad at expressing himself, that’s all. But it shows when he hugs Yanli-jie back just as tightly, and when he grasps Nie Huaisang’s hand readily every time he reaches out.  

“A-Cheng…” Nie Huaisang nuzzles into the side of Jiang Cheng’s face. The puppies whine, protesting again at the lack of attention from the two boys. Jiang Cheng stays unmoving. “Will you give me a hug, please?”

He feels two hands slowly creeping up his back, clutching at his robes. If Sect Leader Jiang refuses to coddle his son, then fine. Nie Huaisang will do it in his stead, as much as he is able to. As much as Jiang Cheng needs him to.

Suddenly, he remembers Sect Leader Jiang, furrowing his brows at the puppies— Jiang Cheng’s three precious puppies—while holding Wei Ying protectively. Nie Huaisang frowns.

After consoling Jiang Cheng, the pair go on with their day as normally as possible, trying their best to avoid crossing path with Wei Ying, lest the boy screams his head off at them once more.

That very night, after wishing Jiang Cheng a good rest and before going back to his own room, Nie Huaisang marches to Sect Leader Jiang’s room, paying a visit to claim custody of the three puppies.

A few days after Wei Ying’s arrival, there was an incident.

Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying turn up at the infirmary, with Yanli-jie in tow, both sporting injuries but surprisingly friendly to each other.

Nie Huaisang raises his eyebrow at Yanli-jie in question, getting a mirthful chuckle in answer. “Isn’t this how boys are? Fighting one day, then the best of friends in another.”

Jiang Cheng eventually opens up to Wei Ying, revelling at the existence of his new friend. Nie Huaisang was apprehensive at first, but after a few days of observing, he finds that Wei Ying, as much as he hates dogs, is similar to his canine nemesis. He loves easily, and is easily loved. Wei Ying is ever playful, and he always has that grin that endears people to him, making people flock to him. So it’s no wonder Jiang Cheng takes to him easily when he finally lets himself to.

Of course, Jiang Cheng is still sore about having to send his puppies away. It gets easier when he learns that Nie Huaisang is going to take care of Princess, Jasmine, and Little Love, promising to raise them well in Qinghe, where Jiang Cheng can meet them when he comes to visit. 

It’s fun, being the three of them, Nie Huaisang has to admit. Wei Ying always has his ideas . What to do, where to explore. He’s always on the move, always eager to move on to the next thing. And Jiang Cheng will be right there, next to him, either offering an offhand comment or shove at the other boy, then tumbling into a bout of play-fight. The two look like a pair of brothers in no time, thick as thieves. 

Nie Huaisang is glad to see Jiang Cheng enjoying himself. He really is. But Wei Ying is such an active boy, and with a mischievous streak at that, and while Jiang Cheng can keep up with him, Nie Huaisang sometimes prefers to stay back leisurely while the two are off to their next great adventure.

It’s fine, really. But it’s almost time for him to leave for home, and yet he feels like he barely has time with Jiang Cheng. Which is ridiculous. The three of them go out to play whenever they have the time to spare.

“What’s gotten you into a sulk?” His brother questions, nudging Nie Huaisang’s prone form with his toe. Rude. He flops onto his back to face Nie Mingjue.

“I’m not sulking.”

Nie Mingjue scoffs. “Sure. And you’re not giving me your longest pout ever.” His brother sits down next to him, and before Nie Huaisang can squawk in protest, puts him into a headlock and ruffles his hair. “Maybe I should bring you to practice, hm? Make you sweat out whatever is bothering you.”

“Mingjue-ge…” Nie Huaisang whines, rolling away from his brother, burying his face into his folded hands.

“Whatever. We’re going back soon anyway, and at home, you won’t be able to escape.” Nie Huaisang groans in protest at the reminder. His father will make sure he’ll pick up the slack, knowing his younger son puts none to minimal effort into his saber practice while at Lotus Pier. “But really, anything you want to talk about.”

“I don’t know…” The younger of the two looks away, preferring not to dwell too much into this...whatever this is. “I don’t know.” He repeats again, shaking his head.

“Are you reconsidering your engagement to that Jiang boy?” Nie Huaisang rolls his eyes, ignoring the manic glint in his brother’s eyes. “Just give me the word and I’ll make sure father will get it done by sun down.”

“For the hundredth time, no .” At least not from Nie Huaisang’s side, that is. With Wei Ying now in the picture, he isn’t sure anymore of where he stands. He won’t let that doubt seep into his voice, however, because his brother and his beastly instincts will definitely sniff it out. “It’s nothing about that.” 

Except, it probably is. 

Their conversation is cut short by a knock on the door, and the sound of the door sliding open right after. Nie Huaisang lies still, his arms still draped across his eyes.

He only looks up when he hears his brother’s gruff voice says, “What do you want, brat?”

“Huaisang,” Jiang Cheng calls to him, blatantly ignoring Nie Mingjue. Nie Huaisang almost snickers at Nie Mingjue’s irritated click of tongue. He can feel his brother rolling his eyes, can feel his exasperation without even looking at him. “Can we talk? Let’s go to the pond.”

Nie Huaisang follows Jiang Cheng’s step quietly, as the other boy leads them to their usual spot.

“What is it, A-Cheng? I thought you were going to the market with Wei Ying?” Nie Huaisang chirps, putting on the best smile he can give right now.

Jiang Cheng turns to him and frowns, then reaches out to pinch his cheeks. “You’ve been giving me your show smile. Stop it,” he says curtly, his eyebrows dipping even more deeply.

Nie Huaisang blinks slowly, relaxing his face and dropping the smile. Of course Jiang Cheng sees through him, he always does. Jiang Cheng takes his hand, rubbing his knuckles with his thumb. “Now will you tell me what’s wrong?”

“Nothing is wrong,” And that, at least, is the truth. “I’m just a little tired, that’s all.” As soon as his words leave his mouth, even Nie Huaisang realizes how weak of an excuse that was. Jiang Cheng stares in disbelief, still frowning. He looks away, unable to keep Jiang Cheng’s intent gaze, to escape the silent interrogation.  “I’m okay really, you don’t have to worry.”

“A-Sang,” Nie Huaisang winces as Jiang Cheng’s tone hardens. That’s his no-nonsense-allowed voice. “You said you’re not joining us to the market because you said you wanted to practice your saber cultivation . Do you think I will believe you when you say nothing is wrong?” 

Okay, perhaps Nie Huaisang was a tiny bit panicked at the time and produced a not very convincing excuse.

“I just—It’s just—” Nie Huaisang mumbles under his breath, still reluctant to share his unreasonable fear. Jiang Cheng rubs his arms encouragingly, his expression softens. “I don’t know. With Wei Ying here now…” Am I still needed here? He doesn’t ask. He can’t bring himself to.

“Wei Ying? What’s he got to do with this?” Jiang Cheng scrunches his face, sounding genuinely confused. “Do you not like him?”

“No, no, it’s not that. Wei Ying’s great.” Watching the loud boy running off to god knows where, and watching Jiang Cheng catching up to him with a shout, always not too far away to keep an eye on him, and Nie Huaisang can’t help but feeling that he’s going to be left behind. “He’s nice, and he’s fun to play with, and he thinks up the best pranks.” A petty part of Nie Huaisang can’t help but add, “Shouldn’t you be spending more time with him?”

Jiang Cheng heaves out a sigh, draping an arm around Nie Huaisang’s shoulder, pulling him close. “I’m done being his keeper for today, thank you very much. It’s so tiring. Jiejie can have him for the rest of the day.” He shifts, so that he can hold Nie Huaisang better, propping his chin on top of the other boy’s head. “Anyways, you’re going back home soon. I’d rather spend more time with you.”

Nie Huaisang finally lets go of the tension he didn’t even notice he’s been holding, almost sighing in relief. “Are you feeling better?” Jiang Cheng asks, picking up Nie Huaisang’s now relaxed body. He replies with a soft hum. “Good.”

“You’re spoiling me,” Nie Huaisang pouts. 

“Well, I am going to be your husband in the future. If I don’t take good care of you, who else will?” Nie Huaisang squeaks at the unexpected sweet words, smacking a laughing Jiang Cheng. “Wei Ying is going to be my brother, but you are going to be my partner. Okay?”

Realizing Jiang Cheng knows the root of his problem, Nie Huaisang is silently glad that his betrothed is so thoughtful. He won’t make fun of Nie Huaisang’s feelings, however dumb it is. “Okay,” he answers softly.

“And remember, you’re my fiancé. Don’t you dare like him more than you like me.” Jiang Cheng warns, but his eyes are laughing along with Nie Huaisang.

“Okay,” he says again. He’s had enough of this conversation, unwilling to feel even more tender than he is now, so Nie Huaisang brings out the best distraction he can think of. “Come to Qinghe quick so you won’t miss the puppies growing up, alright?”

Jiang Cheng pulls away with a grin, and the two spend the rest of the afternoon planning for Princess, Jasmine, and Little Love’s move to The Unclean Realm.

Chapter Text

“A-Cheng, are you sure you want to persist in your engagement to Second Young Master Nie?”

Yu Ziyuan almost scoffs out loud at her husband’s question. The fool never fails to bring up their son’s betrothal, year after year, seeking Jiang Chiang’s affirmation that yes, he still does want his fiancé.

Probably doesn’t want his own son to be in the same predicament as he is. Trapped in an unhappy marriage. A sneer escapes her, discreetly rolling her eyes away from this ridiculousness of it all.

Once upon a time, she would have perceived this act of his as his own, clumsy way of caring for his son. In reality? If he truly does care about Jiang Cheng, then Jiang Fengmian would notice the twitch at the end of his son’s mouth, the subtle lines of exasperation mixed with sadness, every single time the boy is asked this particular question.

“Yes, Father. I’m sure.” 

Yu Ziyuan is far from being content with their son’s arrangement, but she is not as blind as her husband is.

She notices that when Jiang Cheng’s temper is close to exploding, a touch from Nie Huaisang is enough to tamp it down. And that when Jiang Cheng is feeling downtrodden at being bested by that brat Wei Wuxian yet again, Nie Huaisang is quick to be by his side with a piece of osmanthus cake, and a ghost of a smile will rise from Jiang Cheng’s cheeks. That Jiang Cheng is now brave enough to steal cheek kisses when the two return to their respective rooms at the end of the day, sporting identical blushes.

It’s endearing, if not terribly annoying.

“Is that so,” Jiang Fengmian responds, still with that patient smile of his. But Yu Ziyuan can hear the flicker of disappointment there, and she is sure her son can too, as she watches the boy try to make himself seem smaller. She wants to slap that irritating smile off his face. Yu Ziyuan clenches her fist instead, stomping the rage creeping up her skin to prevent Zidian from reacting. “If you say so, my son.”

Jiang Cheng bows, “If that will be all…”

“You’re dismissed,” Jiang Fengmian says with a wave of his hand. And before long, their son disappears from the room, probably off to go back to his visiting betrothed. “Well, that’s quite surprising. What do you think, My Lady?”

Yu Ziyuan raises an eyebrow at the sudden question directed at her. “Of what?”

“I didn’t think A-Cheng would insist on keeping his betrothal to Young Master Nie, after all these years. I thought he’s old enough to rethink it by now.” And lose the little comforts that young Nie gives him? Though Yu Ziyuan might not understand their connection, she is aware of its existence. “I thought you, out of all people, will try to persuade him out of it. You did try, at first.”

What is her husband trying to achieve? Does he secretly disapprove of the engagement? Is he trying to use her hands to break it off? Is he trying to make her the bad person, the bad parent, here, while he gets what he aims for?

“Let the child do as he likes. It is harmless, anyway.” Yu Ziyuan moves to stand. “If that is all, then I shall take my leave.”

“As you say then, My Lady.” Jiang Fengmian nods, also rising up. “I just don’t want him to feel bound to a sense of duty, regarding this. That he has his options.”

If it’s Wei Wuxian, you will laud him for it. For his sense of loyalty . Madame Yu doesn’t say. You don’t even think how people have whispered, and they will whisper even louder when the betrothal is called off without a sensible reason.

She marches out of the room without looking back.

The funeral in Qinghe Nie is a somber affair.

Sect Leader Nie has finally succumbed to his injuries, after months of toeing the line between life and death. The former Nie heir-turned-current Sect Leader heads the ceremony, his younger brother next to him. The usually unsimilar siblings look like a pair of brothers now, both faces colored with grief, still as stone. Nie Huaisang is uncharacteristically grim, though his eyes shine with unshed tears.

Yu Ziyuan’s gaze sweeps through the hall. Representatives from each Great Sects and allies of the Nie sect from the smaller sects fill the space. She notices the absence of the Wen clan. And she doesn’t think she will see any of them in Nie territory for a long time, if the rumors turn out to be true.

Their own family is present in full attendance, being tied to the Nie Sect in a future promise of marriage. Jiang Cheng keeps sending worried looks at the younger Nie. As they near the two, Jiang Fengmian offers his condolences, only getting a silent nod in response. Jiang Yanli, Jiang Cheng, and Wei Wuxian follow his cue, with Yu Ziyuan trailing after them. Jiang Cheng swiftly latches on to his betrothed, the two exchanging murmurs between them, and Yu Ziyuan finally sees Nie Huaisang’s expression flickering, the broken sadness flashing through.

As the other sects leave one by one, the Jiangs decide to stay the night, ever grateful to the newly appointed Sect Leader Nie’s hospitality. Wei Wuxian is whining that he already misses home, and Jiang Yanli is consoling the younger boy with her gentle smiles and pats on the head. The girl truly pampers him.

The Unclean Realm is as unforgiving as their lords, Yu Ziyuan muses as she wanders about the halls, looking out to the scenery. The land surrounding the Nie’s residence is barren, stones stacked upon stones, mountains that are more of glorified large chunks of rocks.

She passes through her son’s room, and after a moment of consideration, she slides the door open. As predicted, Yu Ziyuan finds not only her son, but also Nie Huaisang in there.

The two are asleep side by side, legs tangled with each other, their hands linked. A peaceful sight, in not so peaceful circumstances. Jiang Cheng’s brows are furrowed, even in his sleep. And the Nie boy’s cheeks are stained with tear tracks.

She should scold them. They should have known better. They are not at the age where they can hold sleepovers anymore, despite them both being males. Do they know what being engaged entails, for god’s sake. There is a thing called propriety.

Yu Ziyuan sighs.

She enters the room and picks up the blanket that has been kicked aside, covering both boys from the cool night air.

Madame Yu leaves in silence, weaving her way back to her room, and lets them have the night.

Yu Ziyuan sits in her room, leafing through reports, doing her duty as the Madame of Lotus Pier as usual. It’s been a slow and quiet day. Her husband is off to solve a plight from the villagers, and she lets Jinzhu and Yinzhu join him, as there is nothing of import to do here.

It is not often that she can take a breath, mindlessly going through demands that need to be met, supplies that need to be replenished in the household. She used to abhor this menial part of her task, but now it gives her mind a reprieve.

That’s why the knock comes as unexpected.

“Come in,” she answers, raising her eyebrows when she finds it’s Jiang Cheng entering the room. “A-Cheng. Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing urgent, Mother.” The boy—he’s a teen now, but he will always be a boy in his mother’s eyes—hesitates, seemingly unsure of his presence here. “But there is something that I think you should know.”

“Oh?” She gestures for him to sit opposite her. “Do, sit.” He takes the seat gracefully, the lines of his back straight, hands balling into fists in his lap. “Did that Wei Wuxian do something again?” she takes a guess.

“No, Mother. He’s...not well-behaved, but he hasn’t done anything drastic, after your punishment last time. ...not yet, at least.” She nods, murmuring a terse ‘good’ under her breath. That boy causes too much mischief and mayhem all by himself. “I want to talk to you about the kitchen staff, actually.”

“The kitchen staff?” Yu Ziyuan repeats, lifting her brows once again at yet another unanticipated remark.

“Yes,” Jiang Cheng clears his throat and begins his explanation. He talks slowly, as if trying to remember one point to another. He reveals how the kitchen staff is cheating the produce farmers, taking marginal profit for their own gain out of the household budget. How the change is small enough for Yu Ziyuan not to notice, and for the farmers to swallow the bitter pill, opting to sell at a slightly worse rate than not to sell at all to the Jiang residence.

“And how did you find out about this?” Yu Ziyuan questions, after Jiang Cheng finishes his statement. The boy is quick and smart, but he would never direct his attention to the ongoings of the household on his own accord. And his little speech sounds more like he was reciting something someone has told him beforehand. 

Jiang Cheng’s hand twitches, and she knows he was about to fidget. She’s glad she’s beaten that habit out of him early on. Too unseemly. “I just...found out about it, somehow.”

Yu Ziyuan scoffs, “A- Cheng. You barely step into the kitchen, and you expect me to believe you ‘somehow’ found out the people there are cheating the farmers?”

His eyes flit away, not meeting hers, but after a beat he opens his mouth once more. “...he said he doesn’t want to overstep. That you won’t appreciate someone snooping around your home. But I thought you should know.”

And he’s right. She is not happy about this. 

Even if the action means well, by ratting out the dishonest part of workers, this place is hers to maintain, and only she may take charge. This person is smart to refuse to take credit, knowing she will react badly to it.

She has an inkling on who it may be, from how obediently her son put his trust in this person. And knowing Jiang Cheng’s personality, he will not keep quiet until the truth is laid bare and justice is served, and so her son relays the message to her. It is surprising, as she thought this person prefers to keep his head down.

“Understood. Send out my thanks, and tell that it is unnecessary in the future.” She flicks out her hand. “You’re dismissed.”

Jiang Cheng doesn’t forget his manners in his haste, managing a quick bow before fleeing the room.

Delegations from a minor sect dropping by without even sending a letter to notify their visit, those haughty little shits. All arrogance and pompous talks without much to prove, it is laughable, the audacity they have. Yu Ziyuan feels Zidian crackling out its sparks, thoughts whirling in her head like a storm.

Before she wedded Jiang Fengmian, she has been trained in the arts of sect politics and the intricacies of power play that it can bring. Just because she excels at it, doesn’t mean she enjoys it, especially not with these fools who think they are worth more than they are.

Out of all days . Madame Yu clicks her tongue as she makes her way to the guest hall, Jiang Yanli and Young Master Nie in tow. Her husband is out for a Night hunt with the disciples. Nie Huaisang being who he typically is, has begged off. Seeing how he is currently her future son-in-law, it is not outrageous for him to join them in welcoming the Jiang Sect’s guests.

When they reach the guest hall, the Yang family rises up to greet them. Yu Ziyuan meet their bows with a nod, while her daughter and her son’s betrothed bow back.

“Sect Leader Yang, to what do we owe this honor?” Yu Ziyuan says curtly, not hiding her displeasure.

“Ah, Madame Yu,” Sect Leader Yang’s eyes observe them one by one, before flicking back to her. “I see that Sect Leader Jiang is currently not present. What a pity.” The servants come to serve fresh tea and refreshment. Madame Yu gestures for everyone to help themselves. “We were around the area, so we thought we might as well drop by. We have yet to properly introduce our daughter, Yang Xiulan.”

The young miss gives them all a deep bow, fluttering her eyes demurely. Oh, so they’re trying to put their daughter up for evaluation while there is no interference from her husband and son, hm? How courageous of them. The Yangs are not the first one to do so, and most likely will not be the last.

Yu Ziyuan sends her gaze to Nie Huaisang. He looks poised, ever holding that fan of his. She then redirects her eyes to the Yangs.

“Xiulan is quite gifted in her cultivation. It’s too bad, if only we were a few days early, she could have joined Sect Leader Jiang’s Night hunt.” Madame Yang belts out a high-pitched laugh, such a crude sound even hidden behind the sleeve of her robes. Then the woman addresses Nie Huaisang out of the sudden. “Which makes me wonder, why is Young Master Nie here, and not with them?”

“I’ve been feeling unwell, thank you for your concern, Madame Yang.” Nie Huaisang says chirpily with a bow, to which the woman gives a disbelieving hum.

“That reminds me. Young Master Nie, you are betrothed to Young Master Jiang, was it?” Yu Ziyuan keeps her quiet as she observes the scene playing out. A tranquil smile is still plastered on Nie Huaisang’s face. “How enviable! Our Xiulan is nearly of marriageable age, and dare I say our girl is not bad on the eyes either. And yet, if only there is a suitable candidate for my darling daughter!”

Like my son, you mean? Yu Ziyuan wants to scoff out loud. Such ambitions.

“Oh? Are you perhaps here to ask Madame Yu to be a matchmaker for your daughter?” Nie Huaisang flips his fan open, hiding half his face behind it. “I know quite a few sects with sons who are yet to be betrothed, actually. What do you say, Madame Yu? I’m sure there is at least one that will match up with the Yangs.”

“Indeed.” She doesn’t fully hold back on her ferocious smile. “I’m not unwilling to recommend a family or two for your daughter, if you’d like.”

“I—That—It won’t be necessary.” Sect Leader Yang turns tail with a stutter, a nervous laugh slipping past his lips.

The rest of the afternoon is filled with meaningless chatter, and soon enough the Yang family takes their leave.

That night, Yu Ziyuan summons Nie Huaisang to her room.

As she waits, she ponders again her choices. If her options are open, the young Nie wouldn’t be her first choice. Or her second, honestly. But her son has attached himself to the boy, and that is one point that she will need to factor in.

“Madame Yu, you called for me?”

“Come in.” The boy enters with a bow, an uncertain look crosses his face but gone the next time she blinks. “I want to talk to you about your engagement to my son.” The lines of his shoulders harden, tension seeping throughout his body. “You know I haven’t been the most approving of that arrangement.”

“Yes, I am aware,” Nie Huaisang replies with a gulp, heads down, looking up through his lashes. “I can’t give Jiang Cheng blood heirs.”

“That. But other things, too.”

Heirs had been her first concern. But what of blood relations? Just look at Jiang Fengmian.

To Yu Ziyuan, Jiang Cheng is too much like his father—too soft, too sensitive. Acts too much with his heart, not with his head. Never hard enough.

And yet, to Jiang Fengmian, Jiang Cheng is too much like her. Too much temper, too jealous, too bitter. 

Jiang Fengmian is chasing after that easy smile Wei Wuxian has, a smile that is identical to that of a ghost. And her husband always asks her why she is upset whenever she thinks he is putting Wei Wuxian before Jiang Cheng. Apparently, even blood relation cannot beat a besotted heart.

“Adoption is possible. The Jiang branch family might have children that show promise in cultivation. A suitable heir can be found when the time comes.” She’s waved that concern away recently. It is not the most important problem in the big picture. “We are here to talk about your cultivation.”

“My cultivation?” Nie Huaisang blinks rapidly in confusion. It is known to many that the Nie boy is not particularly gifted, and shows no strong desire to hone his cultivation. Yu Ziyuan has seen glimpses of him that show the promise of competency in both managing a household and surviving sect politics, even flourishing in them. The only thing left is his cultivation.

“When you marry in and become the Madame of Lotus Pier in the future, your level of cultivation is expected to reach a point where you are at least able to fight for your home and defend your husband’s back when the situation calls for it.” The boy gapes, but quickly shuts his mouth with a click. “You are not going anywhere with your saber.”

“No, I’m not,” he replies honestly.

“What do you think of going to Meishan to train?” The boy’s mouth drops open once more, and the edge of Yu Ziyuan’s mouth curls up. “One of the cultivation practices there involves those fans you love so much. War fans. I thought that will go better for you than those sabers of yours.”

“I would love to. Are you sure I’m allowed to—” He then pauses. “My brother.”

“I will persuade him. So?” Yu Ziyuan smirks at the still disbelieving teen. “Do you accept?”

“Yes,” he answers, full of resolution. His eyes are shining, and there’s no question as to what this means. A good, determined gaze. Yu Ziyuan will not accept anything less. “Yes, I will.”

Yu Ziyuan nods her approval, and she adds yet another strength in her plans for the future of Yunmeng Jiang.

Chapter Text

“Ah, the sweet taste of freedom…” Nie Huaisang groans as he stretches out his limbs, nuzzling his head into Jiang Cheng’s lap, sprawling like an overgrown cat.

“How did you manage to get a week off from Meishan anyway, Nie-xiong?” Wei Wuxian asks before munching on a walnut cookie. “I thought those who train there are so strict and everything. Just look at Auntie Yu and her training regimen.”

“By whining their ears off, obviously.” Wei Wuxian snickers at Nie Huaisang’s answer. “They couldn’t stand my charming personality and dumped me out of the mountain. Can you believe them?”

“Is it worth my mother’s three-hour lecture, hm?” Jiang Cheng raps his knuckles against Nie Huaisang’s temple, not putting too much strength so as not to hurt the other teen. 

“I’ll sit through another one if it means I get to see you, A-Cheng.” Nie Huaisang flutters his eyes at his betrothed. A gentle smile tugs at Jiang Cheng’s lips as he cards Nie Huaisang’s bangs away from his face.

“Oh god, stop it you two. Don’t even start.” Wei Wuxian slaps Nie Huaisang’s leg in protest while Jiang Yanli chuckles at the sight.

“Well, I’m glad you get to be here, A-Sang. We’ve missed you,” Jiang Yanli states.

“I’ve missed you too, Yanli-jie! No one compares to you in terms of cooking back there in Meishan,” Nie Huaisang whines, twisting his head to beam at her.

“Are you implying that my sister is only worth her cooking? How dare you,” Jiang Cheng reprimands in mock anger, pinching the other’s nose.

“Of course not! Yanli-jie is the word wonderful personified, there is no better company than Yanli-jie!”

“That’s more like it.”

The four of them are having a picnic at the outskirt of Lotus Pier, just by the lake. Jiang Yanli has prepared the food and snacks in large quantities, knowing the three growing boys will go through them in no time. She cherishes days like this—the quiet, peaceful moments with her brothers, away from whatever that has been keeping them busy.

And the addition of her future brother in law always makes it more lively. Ever since the start of Nie Huaisang’s learning in Meishan, the amount of his visits to Lotus Pier can be counted in one hand. It has been mostly Jiang Cheng who heads over there so that they can have their regular meetup.

“How is your training, A-Sang?” Jiang Yanli asks, genuinely curious. The young Nie does have a reputation and a penchant to slack in building his cultivation, only doing the minimum that he is required to do.

“Eh, it’s doing okay. They yell at me all the time for not being particularly gifted nor dedicated, but the result is still there.” Nie Huaisang pops a lotus seed into his mouth, crunching it noisily. “Much, much better progress than the saber though, that’s for sure.”

“I still can’t believe Mingjue-ge let you change your way of cultivation,” Wei Wuxian sniggers. “I would’ve paid to see his face when he agreed to Auntie Yu’s request to bring you to Meishan.”

“You wouldn’t want to be there, trust me. It was ugly.” Nie Huaisang winces, then turns to face Jiang Cheng. “I love you A-Cheng, but your mother is terrifying .”

“Pretty sure you’re her favorite, outside of her children. So good luck with that.” Jiang Cheng grins, nudging Nie Huaisang to sit up so he can take a sip of tea. Jiang Yangli hides her smile behind her own cup of tea. Witnessing domestic scenes like this almost makes her feel envious at times.

“And I wear that title with pride. But she always checks up on my progress! And tests me by having me spar with her while using Zidian ! Heavens have mercy.” Hands are flailing as Nie Huaisang describes his predicament.

“That’s not so bad, Nie-xiong. At least you only need to face her every few weeks. Imagine having to face Auntie Yu everyday!” Wei Wuxian counters.

“Not so bad?! You try getting zapped by Zidian and feel how it’s not so bad!” Nie Huaisang screeches back.

Jiang Yanli lets out a laugh, watching the two bickering back and forth. Jiang Cheng heaves out an exasperated sigh and grumbles, “Children, the both of them.”

“It’s great that Mother has finally come around about you two, isn’t it A-Cheng?” Jiang Yanli offers her brother another slice of pastry that he gladly accepts.

“Yes, but Father is still…” Jiang Cheng trails, his eyebrows furrowing, his face morphing into a scowl.

Ah, yes. That whole thing their father keeps doing every year, at the anniversary of Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang’s engagement. “He’s still asking you about it?” Jiang Cheng is not a child anymore. Sometimes their parents fail to notice that. “Maybe you should talk to him and make it clear, A-Cheng.”

“It’s fine, Jie.” Jiang Cheng sighs again. “It’s not like he is telling me to break off the betrothal. It doesn’t matter.”

“What, what? What is this about breaking off the betrothal?” Wei Wuxian is finally distracted out of his squabble with Nie Huaisang. “Whose betrothal are we talking about here? Jiang Cheng’s or Shi-jie’s? Because if it’s Shi-jie’s, I’m all for it.”

“A-Xian,” Jiang Yanli reproaches with her tone.

“I agree. That Jin Peacock clearly doesn’t deserve you,” Jiang Cheng huffs.

“A-Cheng, not you too,” Jiang Yanli sighs.

“I don’t get how that Jin Zixuan is not worshipping the gods and thanking them for giving him an engagement with Yanli-jie without even having to put in the effort. Such privilege. He can hardly do any better, yet he’s acting like a prissy princess.” Both Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng nod their agreement at Nie Huaisang’s remark.

“You three…” Jiang Yanli shakes her head, though her chest warms from their show of affection. “Although my betrothal is not as...harmonious as A-Cheng and A-Sang’s, doesn’t mean I’m not content with it. Young Master Jin is a respectable and kind young man, and I appreciate him for it.”

Jiang Yanli was stricken at first sight, she won’t admit. She knows that it’s a foolish notion, liking someone when she knows so little of the other. She is not so dumb as to assume that Jin Zixuan might share her sentiment, but she believes that he will endeavor to respect the arrangement both of their parents had set for them.

Jiang Yanli often goes to town, either to buy additional ingredients for the kitchen when she is going to cook, or just to walk around to greet the villagers. And that’s how she knows public opinion of her brother’s engagement has turned for the better, throughout the years.

It’s a love match , people now say, and the two had agreed on it on their own, and at such a young age. How auspicious!

And in turn, how that reflects on Jiang Yanli’s own betrothal.

And then there’s the eldest daughter , people shake their heads, they say her betrothed is never enthused to see her. And do you know that she is slightly older than him? What a shame…

She is quite average looking too, isn’t she? And I heard her cultivation is not much to talk about too. What a shame, what a shame…

Jiang Yanli is a gentle girl, and a lot of people mistake that as meekness. She believes that no matter what people may say, what is important is what her family and she herself feel. Only people directly related to the matter’s opinion need to be paid attention to. Yes, she is a young girl, but she is also her mother and father’s daughter. She will not bend down.

“Maybe that Jin Zixuan doesn’t realize Yanli-jie’s worth is because the two of them have never properly talked?” Nie Huaisang quips.

“Which is his fault, being the pompous ass that he is,” Jiang Cheng scoffs. It’s true, they’ve only spoken a word or two outside of the necessary greetings.

“I know, I know, but maybe they should get to know each other. I don’t know, perhaps through letters?” Nie Huaisang flicks out his fan as he ponders away. 

“And let him be disrespectful to Shi-jie in person and through mail? I don’t think so.” Wei Wuxian voices his dissent at the notion with a snort.

Jiang Yanli thinks it’s a delightful idea. She doesn’t voice it out loud, knowing her pair of brothers will disagree to it with a vengeance. There’s a seed of doubt and a sliver of nerves running through her veins as she considers it. But mostly, what she feels is excitement, at the possibility of a deeper connection to her betrothed.

(That night, she comes to Nie Huaisang for advice.

She feels more than a little silly. Thankfully, Nie Huaisang doesn’t make fun of her, and shares to her the topics he and Jiang Cheng talk about in their letters. When he is done imparting his pointer, Nie Huaisang sends her off with a hug, a small, knowing smile, and a whispered ‘good luck’ under his breath.)

Dear Young Master Jin , Jiang Yanli nibbles at her lower lip as she tries to string the words in her head. Then she picks up her brush.

I hope you won’t find me impertinent for writing you this letter. Considering we’ve been betrothed for several years now, I find that we are yet to be familiar with each other. I am writing to you in hopes that I may get to know you better, and so that you may get to know me better as well. 

She then writes a short excerpt on the day in Lotus Pier—the picnic she had, the places she went to, and about her beloved brothers and Nie Huaisang.

I hope you find this letter in good faith. And if you don’t object, I will be waiting for your reply.

Regards,
Jiang Yanli

P.S.
I’ve enclosed some pastries that I made with this letter. I hope it will arrive in good condition! Please tell me if there are any that you particularly like.

There. She’s written it. Jiang Yanli sneaks out to the mail room, careful not to bump into her overprotective brothers. She passes the letter and the parcel to a mail room staff, collecting a promise of secrecy, especially to two teens in particular. And the man is off with a grim nod.

It’s done. No take backs. She blushes. This is perhaps the most daring thing she’s done in regards to her betrothal. Several things dart through her mind at once—what if it finds the letter too forward, too brazen? What if he feels so appalled that he wants to break off the engagement? What if this one letter ruins everything?

Jiang Yanli takes a deep breath, and releases it. All will be fine. At most, Jin Zixuan will just not reply to her letter. Whatever happens later, she will deal with it as it comes. There is no need to be so flustered.

She collects her thoughts and walks down the hall with her head held up high.

Thoughts of the letter keep nagging at the back of her head even days after it is sent, until the day Nie Huaisang needs to head back to Meishan arrives.

Jiang Yanli gives the pouting teen a hug and a box full of his favourite pastries, promising him that she will send for more when he runs out. The frown finally turns into a sunny grin. “Yanli-jie is truly the best! Don’t forget to tell how ‘that’ thing goes, okay?” He steps away with a cryptic wink.

Nie Huaisang gives Wei Wuxian a quick hug next, the two slapping each other on the backs. “Send me news when you’ve made more interesting talismans, Wei-xiong! I’ll test them out for you!”

“And risk my head getting chopped off by Jiang Cheng? No thanks,” Wei Wuxian guffaws in good humor, shooing the other away.

Then Nie Huaisang finally gets to Jiang Cheng, slipping into his fiancé’s embrace, their bodies flush against the other. Jiang Yanli and Wei Wuxian step away to give the couple space. The two pointedly look away so that they can have the credibility to say that no, of course there was no kissing of any kind, and of course the relationship between their youngest brother and his intended is as pure as newly fallen snow.

It is not long after Nie Huaisang’s departure that a familiar looking mail staff walks up to Jiang Yanli. He bows curtly before passing a letter discreetly into Jiang Yanli’s hands. She bows her thanks before shuffling her feet into her room, closing the sliding doors with a beating heart.

Her hands slightly tremble as she checks the sender. It’s from Young Master Jin. It’s the reply to her letter. She takes a seat before opening the letter and peruses over it.

Dear Maiden Jiang,

I was very surprised to have accepted a letter from you…

Jiang Yanli reads the letter. And then she reads it again, in a slower fashion. The letter is stiff and leaning toward formal, but it is still a proper and polite response. Jin Zixuan doesn’t offer as much in his letter compared to hers, but it is more than she had hoped for.

Her eyes jump to the end once more. P. S. Thank you for the pastries. They were very delicious. I particularly liked the apricot pastry among the handful you have sent for me. She feels glad, and mostly relieved. This means she has not overstepped the boundary between them.

Jiang Yanli folds the letter, holding it close to her heart, a smile unfurling across her face. Her body feels light, as she bites her lower lip to stop herself from giggling. She will have to think of a reply, soon.

It’s a start, a step into a future filled with hopes and promises. It will be a long way, she knows, but the road is not as unclear as before. And come what may, she knows she will meet them with a spring in her step.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian hates it when it’s his turn to play chaperone.

His brother and Nie Huaisang are almost fully grown men, for heaven’s sake. Auntie Yu said that’s the more reason why a chaperone is needed, but Wei Wuxian begs to differ. So here he is, more or less a glorified babysitter for the couple. As much as he loves those two, when those two are in this mode , he is basically the unwanted third wheel. Who wants to do nothing but watch his brother and his friend flirt all the time?

That is why he feels it is very much justified if he plays hooky once in a while, much to the couple’s delight.

“Make sure you don’t bump into anyone from Lotus Pier, alright? At least no one who will blab to Auntie Yu!” Wei Wuxian warns, with one hand on his hip and the other wagging his finger at Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang, who are rolling their eyes at him. Rude!

The trio is out on an excursion to a town which is the second nearest to Lotus Pier—not so close by that residents of Lotus Pier often pay a visit, but not so far away that they can’t go for a day tour. The official reason for coming to this particular town is because they want to go sightseeing. This town has a garden that is famous for their rhododendron blooms, and there’s this particular shop that sells lotus seed buns and black sesame buns so amazing that Nie Huaisang refuses to buy from another. 

Both are legitimate reasons, of course. But the most important one that goes unsaid is that in this town, if Wei Wuxian leaves the pair alone to go to a date or to do whatever, word won’t go back all the way to Lotus Pier.

“Of course we’ll be careful, Wei-xiong. It’s not like it’s the first time we sneak around like this,” Nie Huaisang waves his fan idly, his arm already linked to Jiang Cheng’s. 

See? Not even five minutes have passed since their arrival, and they’re already acting like this. Wei Wuxian entertains the idea of telling on them, just once, so they’ll notch it down a little, but he’s too terrified of what Nie Huaisang might do in retaliation that it remains a longing that may never be realized. 

“It’s you I’m more worried about. Don’t make a ruckus, you hear me?” Jiang Cheng clicks his tongue at his brother. “Last time all of us got punished because the town chief filed a complaint to Mother.”

“Yeah, yeah, I’ll behave while you guys are away to suck each other’s faces.” Wei Wuxian sticks his tongue out at Jiang Cheng’s growl.

“You’re just jealous you don’t have anyone to suck faces with, Wei-xiong!” Nie Huaisang teases as he tugs at Jiang Cheng’s sleeve.

“Like hell I am! Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do, you two!” Wei Wuxian makes a shoo-ing motion at the pair.

“Don’t worry! A-Cheng is a gentleman and we’ve decided to wait until our wedding night!” Wei Wuxian barks out a laugh at Jiang Cheng’s indignant squawk, while Nie Huaisang waves goodbye with a manic grin, dragging his intended in tow. 

Shaking his head, Wei Wuxian links his fingers behind his neck, whistling out a tune as he looks idly around town. What should he do first? He has more than enough time to kill.

In the end, he does what he always does—flirt with the local girls, eat his fill of the local delicacies, and trade gossip with the uncles and aunties who would spare him the time. Ah, he will miss this. Wei Wuxian won’t be able to come visit for a while, after all. By autumn, he and Jiang Cheng will be off to Gusu to start their training at the Lan Sect.

No more lotus pods to steal. No more Shi-jie’s pork and lotus soup. No more Yunmeng’s famous street food and snacks that he so loves. No more swimming by the lake when the weather gets too hot. Wei Wuxian will have to survive with none of those for one whole year. He lets out a dramatic sigh.

This is the reason why Nie Huaisang had fought tooth and nail to get himself permission to come and visit Yunmeng yet again. When Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian go to Gusu, who knows when they will be able to meet up again?

Wei Wuxian has his suspicion that the two, or Nie Huaisang himself, had conspired to get him to be chaperone today. They know only Wei Wuxian will let them off to be on their own. And Nie Huaisang has conveniently prepared two jars of osmanthus wine when he came back from Meishan, to appease him. At least the two can have their privacy and Wei Wuxian can have some validated time off. Two birds with one stone, ha. 

He stretches his arms up with a groan, and skips his way to the bun shop. 

“Auntie! Can I have two lotus seed buns, two black sesame buns, two liu sha baos, and some wine please!”

Ah, he might as well enjoy his day to the fullest while he’s here.

“I still don’t get you and Nie Huaisang.”

“What do you mean?”

The pair of brothers are lying down on the grass, both gross and sweaty after their bout of sparring. They will need to wash up and get themselves presentable for dinner. Wei Wuxian is sure somewhere amongst the three thousand rules here in the Cloud Recesses, there is one dedicated to not being late to meal times.

But that can wait. He turns an appraising eye at Jiang Cheng.

“Your whole…” Wei Wuxian gestures obscurely with his hands, “betrothal thing.”

“What is there to get?” Jiang Cheng twists his body to face his brother, lifting his eyebrows in question.

“So, okay. You got yourselves engaged really young, right? And that itself is already so weird,” Wei Wuxian starts. “But then you grew up, and suddenly you’re mushy with each other.” He then pauses, trying to gather his thoughts. “Like, how did you realize that your feelings for Nie Huaisang are more than friendship? How did you even find out you’re a cutsleeve?” 

“I’m not a cutsleeve. I just like Huaisang.” Jiang Cheng shrugs. 

Wei Wuxian rolls his eyes. “Okay, maybe I need to give you more concrete examples.” He sits up, moving his hands again to capture his brother’s attention. “So, girls. Girls are nice. I like flirting with them, it’s fun. How come you don’t flirt with them?”

“Because I’m not shameless like you, and I already have Huaisang, and I don’t have a death wish?”

“Fair. But imagine. Imagine you never got engaged with Nie-xiong, do you think you will ever flirt with a girl?”

“No..?” Jiang Cheng says a little blankly. Knowing his brother’s lack of imagination, and the fact that Jiang Cheng has been betrothed ever since forever, he probably couldn’t think of another version of his life.

This is going nowhere. Wei Wuxian needs to look at another angle. “Okay. Then, how did you realize you like like Nie-xiong? That it’s not just friendship you’re feeling?”

“Why are you asking so many questions, god.” Jiang Cheng scratches his head as his brows furrow in concentration. “I honestly don’t know. We’ve been together for so long, that I never question things about feelings—about us. I don’t think there’s one particular moment, if that’s what you’re asking.” Then he glares at Wei Wuxian and snaps, “I’m not good at explaining this, why didn’t you ask Huaisang instead of me?”

“Oh come on, Jiang Cheng, indulge me,” Wei Wuxian whines. “Like, what’s the difference between me and Nie-xiong? We both grew up with you, and we’re both your bestest friends. How come you don’t treat us the same?”

“Besides that you’re my brother and Huaisang’s my betrothed?” Jiang Cheng pauses as if pondering his answer. “I want to kiss him, but I’d rather drown myself than kiss you.”

“Jiang Cheng!” Wei Wuxian shrieks, and slaps his brother’s arm. “Don’t play around! I’m being serious here, for once, and you do this to me!”

“What!? How do you even want me to answer?” Jiang Cheng counters with a yell, throwing a slap in retaliation. Then he freezes. “Wait a second, do you have someone you like? Is this why you’re grilling me about feelings all of a sudden?”

“No, I don’t,” Wei Wuxian answers all too quickly, wincing at Jiang Cheng’s predatory grin. His mind treacherously thinks of a beautiful face, a devastating glare, and a swordsmanship that matches his own. “No, I don’t! Stop making that face!” Wei Wuxian shoves his cackling brother away, huffing in exasperation. 

“You have someone you want to be mushy with,” Jiang Cheng teases. How dare he. It’s Wei Wuxian’s job to tease, not the other way around! “You know, there’s one way to be sure. Just kiss them—if you like it, then that means you like that person. Easy.” Jiang Cheng hoists himself up, dusting his robes before walking away with a chuckle. 

“What is it with you and kissing!? Hey, Jiang Cheng, wait up!” Wei Wuxian jumps and runs after his brother.

Not satisfied with their conversation in the afternoon, Wei Wuxian slips out of his room after curfew, tiptoeing his way to Jiang Cheng’s room.

He slides the door open, careful not to make a noise, and whispers. “Hey, Jiang Cheng, are you—what the, Nie Huaisang!?” His voice raises in surprise at the end.

“Ssshhh! Wei-xiong, you’ll get us caught!” Nie Huaisang breathes out in alarm.

“How come you’re—hrmph!” Jiang Cheng lunges to cover Wei Wuxian’s mouth with his hand, pulling his older brother inside the room before shutting the door.

“Shut up before you get all of us into trouble!” Jiang Cheng hisses under his breath.

After regaining his calm, Wei Wuxian smacks Jiang Cheng’s hand away and lowers his voice. “What are you doing here, Nie-xiong? More importantly, how did you get in here?!”

“I have my ways,” Nie Huaisang winks, not really answering. “We had a Night hunt in Meishan, and had to track the yaoguai all the way into Gusu territory. So I thought I’d drop by before we have to head back.”

“Aww, look at you, joining Night hunts and everything. We’re so proud of you.” Wei Wuxian jests, ruffling Nie Huaisang’s head.

“And what are you doing here in my room?” Jiang Cheng asks, hitting Wei Wuxian’s hand away. Ouch. Possessive much?

Two pairs of eyes peer at him in the dimness of the night, and it takes an effort for Wei Wuxian not to fidget. “Oh it’s nothing important, it can wait until tomorrow.”

“Wait, are you finally ready to fess up?” Jiang Cheng’s eyes are shining with amusement. “Are you going to tell us about your crush?”

“What crush?” Nie Huaisang chips in, his interest piqued.

“For the hundredth time, I do not have a crush!” 

“This afternoon, he interrogated me about our relationship, asking about feelings and stuff,” Jiang Cheng elaborates. “He definitely has someone in mind, but he won’t admit it.”

“Because there’s nothing to admit to!” Wei Wuxian protests, in his own defense. “And you should hear Jiang Cheng, giving weird advice like kissing a person to confirm their feelings. Can you believe him?”

“Why not? That’s what we did,” Nie Huaisang casually says, sidling up to Jiang Cheng’s side. “The body is sometimes more honest than the mind. It’s more straightforward that way.”

Wei Wuxian groans. What did he expect from these two, really? “Enough about this. Tell us about the yaoguai you chased all the way here.” 

The three spend the night chatting, careful to keep their voices low, exchanging news and stories until it is almost time for Nie Huaisang to go. Wei Wuxian takes his leave with a yawn, returning to his own room to rest, giving the pair of lovers a moment of privacy.

Wei Wuxian stretches out the kinks in his neck as he roams the hall, not stopping a yawn from breaking out of his mouth. After a scolding from Lan Qiren for sleeping during class, Wei Wuxian deems a nap is necessary. 

He notices a swish of a robe, and a familiar figure, and before he catches himself, he calls out, “Wangji-xiong! Lan Zhan!”

The other teen pauses, looking past his shoulder to send Wei Wuxian a glare. “Yelling is prohibited in the Cloud Recesses.”

“Ay, don’t be so strict, Lan Zhan. That barely counted as yelling.” Wei Wuxian stops in front of the younger Jade of Lan, scrutinizing the other’s face. As usual, Lan Zhan’s face is so nice to look at, so handsome even when he’s angry. Wei Wuxian keeps on looking his fill in silence.

“Wei Ying..?” 

Even his confused face is stunning, how is this fair? “Mn?” Wei Wuxian absently responds.

“Are you okay?” Blinking out of his daze, Wei Wuxian realizes that Lan Wangji is watching him with concern. A tickly warmth coils in his chest. Lan Zhan is so good.

Just kiss them—if you like it, then that means you like that person. The body is sometimes more honest than the mind.

Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang’s words are ringing in his ears, over and over, and a surge of adrenaline suddenly pumps through his veins. He has an irresistible impulse to do something crazy—something that may just cost him an expulsion, even. But when has the threat of consequences ever stopped Wei Wuxian?

“Lan Zhan, can you close your eyes?” Wei Wuxian asks before he chickens out. Hesitance flashes in Lan Wangji’s eyes, and a tilt of his head questions Wei Wuxian’s intention. “Trust me?”

Lan Wangji still looks doubtful, but he closes his eyes as requested.

Grabbing the lapels of Lan Wangji’s robe, Wei Wuxian pulls their bodies flush against each other, crashing his lips against the other’s.

Wei Wuxian has never kissed anyone before, so he doesn’t know if it’s a good kiss. But he’s read enough romance novels to know what it means when his body lights up with glee, when he feels giddy and his heart is pounding. He definitely likes this kiss.

When he pulls away, Wei Wuxian notices Lan Wangji’s ears are painted red. And though the other teen is gaping in shock, too flustered to say anything, Wei Wuxian notes that he can’t find even a hint of disgust on his face. 

“Lan Zhan, I like you! Can I kiss you again? Can I pursue you?” Wei Wuxian runs his mouth, unable to contain his enthusiasm, clasping Lan Wangji’s wrists.

Lan Wangji is opening and closing his mouth, still at a loss. Perhaps this is a chance for Wei Wuxian to steal another kiss.

Finally coming to his senses, Lan Wangji pulls his hands away from Wei Wuxian’s grip, and without another word, turns tail and breaks out into a run. And of course, Wei Wuxian gives chase.

“Wait for me, Lan Zhan~!”

Chapter Text

Qinghe Nie is home to the fiercest warriors in the cultivation world, Nie Mingjue can proudly say.

In the war against the Wens, with Nie Mingjue leading the campaign, his sect members fought the hardest, sent the most strikes against their enemies, proving again and again their  strength and glory. They thrived in the battlefield—with their heated blood singing their skins, with war cries ringing through their ears. 

And now with the Sunshot Campaign over and done, these strong points that they take pride in have become the reason for Sect Leader Nie’s concern.

“They’re all getting restless, with no battle to fight,” Nie Mingjue starts, taking a sip of tea. He sighs when he recalls the scene that greeted him in the training grounds. They are now back at the Unclean Realm, but their souls linger at the warfront, their eyes still hunting for an enemy to strike down. “I had to stop a fight because they’re getting too brutal for a spar. Every single one of them is looking for a chance to spill blood.” Nie Mingjue massages a headache that’s forming in his temples. “They’re supposed to be resting, not beating each other up.”

“I can’t fault them, they’ve been gearing up to fight for a long stretch of time, it’s understandable if they can’t turn it off immediately,” Nie Huaisang chuckles, waving his fan leisurely. “Keep the necessary guards here, but set them all on Night hunts until their blood lust settles down. If they can’t sit still, might as well get them to do something productive.” 

“You’re right,” Nie Mingjue sighs. “I’ll arrange for it tomorrow.”

The two Nie brothers are having their dinner in Nie Mingjue’s quarters, exchanging information regarding the ongoings of their sect. 

The war is finally over. Nie Mingjue feels relief every time that fact dawns on him.

It hasn’t been easy, and not without its share of loss. 

The Cloud Recesses were burnt down, and the Lans lost their sect leader not long after. Lan Xichen, who is now sect leader, and his brother Lan Wangji joined the frontlines while Lan Qiren held Gusu. 

Lotus Pier was ransacked, under the orders of Wen Chao with Wen Zhuliu by his side. It was fortunate that Madame Jin and Jin Zixuan were visiting at the time. With their help, the Jiang family survived the attack, though not without consequences. Sect Leader Jiang lost half his core when fending off Wen Zhuliu’s core melting hand, and had to be taken to Gusu Lan to heal during the war. Madame Yu stood by his side, looking after his recovery, while her children assisted in war efforts.

And the countless cultivators who lost their lives in the fight, too many to be named.

Nie Mingjue had wanted to send his brother to the Cloud Recesses, to hide him in safety, far away from those wretched Wen dogs. But Nie Huaisang surprisingly refused with vehemence, arguing that he had developed his cultivation enough to defend himself. That he might not be strong enough to fight in the frontlines, but he can be useful in everything else. Battle camp logistics, correspondence with fronts held by the other sects, even pitching in during strategy meetings, Nie Huaisang had proved his worth.

Nie Mingjue couldn’t be prouder of his brother.

“Have you heard about Wei Wuxian? Lan Xichen told me in his letter that his brother is formally courting that damned troublemaker,” Nie Mingjue snorts. “I thought he was joking. I’ve met Lan Wangji a couple of times before, and he seems like the nice and quiet sort. How he ends up with the brat who invented demonic cultivation, only heavens shall know.”

“Oh, finally?” Nie Huaisang grins as he snaps his fan to a close. “Those two had been all over each other ever since their time in Gusu Lan and throughout the war, or so Jiang Cheng had complained in his letters. At least now it’s official.”

“That Jiang brat had it coming. You two are no better when you’re in each other’s company,” Nie Mingjue shakes his head with a laugh. “This is just karma playing out.”

“We’re not that bad.” Nie Huaisang rolls his eyes at his brother’s disbelieving snort. “I heard Lan Wangji invented musical cultivation that curbs the effects of demonic cultivation. He even made sure Wei-xiong restrained its use, so that he would always have a complete grasp of control. A match made in heaven, I would say.”

Wei Wuxian and his army of fierce corpses were influential in taking down the Wens. His use of resentful energy had garnered criticism from many sides, but having the Second Young Master Lan by his side, vouching for him had shut many people’s mouths. Nie Mingjue personally didn’t care about all that. The Nie Sect’s saber spirit has more lasting effects on Nie cultivators, and it is an undeniable problem Nie Mingjue would prefer to tackle another day.

“Talking about marriage—”

“I’m not letting you marry the Jiang brat before you are of age.” Nie Mingjue states before his younger brother can finish his sentence. “What has been going on in the Jiang Sect? Is he going to step up to be the sect leader?”

“He’s going to learn the ropes while Madame Yu takes the role as acting sect leader. Jiang Fengmian is going to retire,” Nie Huaisang answers. “But that’s not what I was going to talk about! It’s not like I can get married before you do.”

Nie Mingjue winces, having an inkling of where this conversation is going. 

During the war, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng had acquainted themselves with members of the Wen subsidiary family when they ran reconnaissance at the Wen’s supervisory office in Lotus Pier. After reaching an understanding, the Wen branch family agreed to join the campaign to stop the atrocities of Wen Ruohan and his sons, their involvement remained undisclosed until their planned coup at the end came through. 

In normal situations, Nie Mingjue would have abhorred this method of espionage and betrayal. But it was proven effective, and the war that would’ve lasted for years was put to an end. The Wen branch family, led by Wen Qing, declared their surrender and offered reparations to find peace and renew their alliance with the other sects. 

One of them is in the form of Wen Qing’s hand in marriage.

“I still don’t get why you’re so eager to marry me off,” Nie Mingjue grumbles under his breath. Nie Huaisang attended the conference where the sects discussed the result of the Wens’ surrender. When Wen Qing mentioned about offering to forge an alliance through marriage, Nie Huaisang had wasted no time to claim it. “Why can’t Lan Xichen marry her instead?”

“Lan Xichen has his uncle and his brother, and in time, Wei Wuxian by marriage.” Nie Huaisang’s voice turns serious. “Jin Zixuan has his parents and cousins and half-brother, and also Jiang Yanli. Jiang Cheng has his parents, and eventually,” His younger brother leans forward to grip his arm. “He will have me. I want you to have someone to stand beside you when it is time, Mingjue-ge.”

Nie Mingjue clasps Nie Huaisang’s wrist, his gaze softens. All this time, he carries his responsibility as the older brother, always looking out for Nie Huaisang. Nie Mingjue looks ahead to shield the other from oncoming danger, he didn’t realize that his younger brother has been watching after his back. They’ve been looking after each other all along.

“And did you know that Wen Qing is an exceptional physician?” Nie Huaisang continues. “I’ve talked to her before. She might have methods to prevent Qi deviation, or at least to suppress it. And she can train more physicians to tend to our own.” 

“Can we trust her, though? And the Wens that she will be bringing into the Unclean Realm…”

“I’ve seen them—they’re mostly the elderly and children. She’s agreed for us to keep them under close examination, at least for the early years until they’ve acclimatized. Some even wanted to give up their family name. I’ll vet them again when they arrive in Qinghe,” Nie Huaisang elaborates, obviously having given the topic much thought. “I’m sure the other sects will want to check on them too from time to time, just in case.”

 “Hm,” Nie Mingjue grunts in approval. “I’ll leave it to you when the time comes.”

“Which brings us to the topic of your wedding.” Nie Huaisang lets go of his hand, leaning back, grinning from ear to ear. 

 Nie Mingjue groans out in protest, listening to his younger brother planning out the details of his upcoming wedding ceremony.

Short of two years after Nie Mingjue is wedded to Wen Qing, former Sect Leader Jiang Fengmian and Madame Yu of Yunmeng Jiang arrive in the Unclean Realm bearing gifts.

Nie Mingjue holds back a curse and throws a glare at his younger brother who refuses to meet his eyes, keeping a straight face, the very picture of innocence. A little warning would have been appreciated. Nie Mingjue does not like being caught off guard.

They are here to discuss the date of Jiang Wanyin and Nie Huaisang’s wedding day, and to talk about the bride’s price. It is completely out of Nie Mingjue’s element.

Thankfully, Wen Qing knows a thing or two, and does most of the talking and negotiation. She looks strangely prepared, confidently listing the properties and gifts befitting Young Master Nie’s bride price. There is some debate coming from Madame Yu, but overall, the woman looks satisfied as they come to an agreement. They move on to finding an auspicious day for the wedding ceremony. 

Nie Mingjue still feels dazed as he watches his brother’s wedding date get finalized in the matter of hours. 

“Huaisang’s briefed you for this, I assume?” Nie Mingjue grouses to his wife as the Jiang husband and wife leaves the premises, coming and going like a storm. 

“He did,” Wen Qing confirms. “He said that if he asks you directly, you’ll probably give your permission in another year, so I cooperated with him in keeping it quiet from you. Oh, stop pouting. You’re a grown man, suck it up.”

“I’m his older brother.” Nie Mingjue is not pouting. He is frowning, at most. 

“Which makes me his older sister-in-law,” Wen Qing counters with a raised eyebrow. “You know he will have to leave his nest, sooner or later.”

“It’s too soon,” Nie Mingjue says. It will always be too soon, he doesn’t say.

“Those two boys have been engaged for what? More than ten years, you said?” Wen Qing turns and walks down the hall, presumably off to find Nie Huaisang to deliver the news. Nie Mingjue moves to follow, keeping up with her brisk pace. “They’re both of age, and one of them is even assuming sect leader duties. I think it’s just the right time.”

Wen Qing is a woman with a quick mind and an even quicker temper. She is as straightforward as he is, and can be more stubborn than he can be. Madame Wen is extremely competent in her duties, both as a physician and as the wife of a sect leader, juggling her responsibilities with ease. His woman is a force of nature. 

In his life, Nie Mingjue has never imagined what kind of wife he will one day have. But after marrying Wen Qing, he can’t imagine anyone else. Their relationship might be a political marriage, and he doubts anything as complicated as feelings will be involved down the line, but there is a sense of understanding and growing fondness over time. 

“Nie Huaisang, the Young Madame of Lotus Pier. Can you imagine?” Nie Mingjue smiles at the image.

“He’s going to strike fear into their hearts, like a true Nie,” Wen Qing smirks.

“And demand respect, deserving of his status as the cultivation partner of Sect Leader Jiang,” Nie Mingjue continues, his smile morphing into a grin.

The pair of husband and wife search for their brother, informing the thrilled young man when he should start preparing for his wedding day.

Jiang Wanyin and Nie Huaisang’s wedding is held in Lotus Pier.

The Nies stay in a guest residence, where Nie Huaisang, as the bride, is picked up in the morning by the groom. During the tea ceremony, Nie Mingjue gives Jiang Wanyin the hardest glare he could muster as he accepts the offered cup of tea. Wen Qing surprisingly lets him, only letting out an amused huff as she accepts her own cup. Jiang Wanyin shows no sign of being fazed, already used to his future brother-in-law’s intimidation over the years. 

It is a grand and festive ceremony, with all their friends and family attending. The members of the Jiang sect seem excited to celebrate the nuptials of their new sect leader and young madame, lighting up firecrackers and banging up music as the procession comes through. 

Nie Huaisang looks stunning, clad in red and draped in a red veil, like he stepped out of those paintings he likes so much. 

The bride and groom do their three bows. The first bow to heaven and earth. The second bow to the parents. The third bow to each other. Nie Huaisang then performs the second part of the tea ceremony, offering cups of tea to Jiang Fengmian and Yu Ziyuan, being welcomed as a new member of the family. 

The couple are escorted to the bridal chamber to finish the ceremony, and after that, the bride and groom will join them once again in the wedding banquet, where representatives from the other sects have been waiting. Finally, the most pleasant part of the day is here.

Weddings are tedious and tiresome, Nie Mingjue can attest to that, but it is an event that gathers a lot of people together.

Laughter and shouts fill the room as wine flows from cup to cup, a bountiful feast served on the table, not allowing the guests to leave the room without a full stomach. Madam Jin and Jin Zixuan are conversing with Jiang Feng Mian and Yu Ziyuan, with the young Jin heir crawling about between them. Wen Qing is over there talking to Jiang Yanli, with Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji next to them, taking turns to hold little Lan Yuan, an orphan related to Wen Qing they had adopted not too long ago. 

Another round of toasts and a loud cheer erupt as Jiang Wanyin and Nie Huaisang join the banquet.

Nie Mingjue eyes the newly-wed couple as they work the crowd, accepting their congratulations and thanking people for coming, slowly winding their way to the table reserved for family. Wei Wuxian pulls Jiang Wanyin aside, probably up to no good, looking at the row of cups of wine he has ready on the table. Nie Huaisang grins as he leaves his husband to the mercy of Yunmeng Jiang’s number one troublemaker. 

Seeing his younger brother is approaching their table, Nie Mingjue’s lips tilt into a smile. “Mingjue-ge! Dage!” Nie Huaisang tackles Nie Mingjue into a hug, breaking into a giggle. 

“Are you drunk already? The night is still young.” Nie Mingjue rubs the younger one’s head, a pang of loss opening up in his chest. After tonight, he will return to Qinghe without Nie Huaisang. 

“No, but I’m so happy I feel drunk.” Nie Huaisang’s voice is almost drowned by the festivities around them. Nie Mingjue holds on to every word he says. “I’m happy, ge.”

“I’m happy for you too, Huaisang.” Nie Mingjue reaches out to wrap his arms around the other, pulling his little brother into a tight embrace, an affectionate gesture he rarely displays as they grew up.

Nie Huaisang is now the Young Madame of Lotus Pier, the wife of the newly appointed Sect Leader Jiang. He shall make Yunmeng his home, just like he has been doing throughout the years.

This wedding will not change the fact that Nie Huaisang’s roots are in the rocky lands of Qinghe, that he grew up under the care of the Nie sect, in the halls of the Unclean Realm.

Nie Huaisang is still and will always be Nie Mingjue’s little brother, and even from today onward, Nie Mingjue will protect and watch over him.