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Sect leader Yao was right.  If he was being honest with himself, which he usually was, then he was right most of the time.  How often had he stepped up to take a leadership role when the cultivation world had been faced with some crisis or other?  On those occasions his oratorical skills had swayed his peers to recognise his point of view and the integrity of his character.  As a leader of one of the minor sects he understood that his talents could not be recognised to the extent that they deserved, but he was content to lend his guidance to the world for no reward, other than the satisfaction of having contributed to the general good.

When he first received grandmaster Lan’s request to visit, in order to consult on library cataloguing systems, he was happy to help out.  Although his sect’s library was somewhat smaller than that held by Gusu Lan he was certain that their cataloguing system was the most comprehensive, and he would be happy to share this insight with his old friend (he would just need Hu Yunyu who managed their library to explain it to him beforehand).

The visit had started out well. Lan Qiren was, perhaps, less than enthusiastic about Yao Ziqing’s lengthy explanation on the state of the sect’s library but he could understand his distraction.  No doubt the old man was still reeling from the disgraceful behaviour of his younger nephew. It must be good for him to escape the malevolent presence of the Yiling Patriarch in his own home.  Yao Ziqing was proud of the tranquillity and orthodoxy of his own humble sect. 

It was in the afternoon that Lan Qiren raised the issue of his pamphlet on Wei Wuxian and his proposal that disciples from the Yao sect might be willing to help with some preposterous ritual in an attempt to restore his golden core.  Yao Ziqing was astounded.  He could not conceive of any reason for Lan Qiren to help the Yiling Patriarch and certainly could not see any reason why the Yao sect should help.  Surely the man was dangerous enough as he was, why would anyone want him to gain more power?

He listened to Lan Qiren’s explanations of his newfound appreciation for his nephew’s husband.  As Yao Ziqing listened it became evident to him that the old man’s faculties were not what they used to be.  He decided it would be best to humour him rather than causing more distress.

He flicked through the pamphlet.

“Grandmaster Lan, this is all very interesting.  It is so good that you have found a pastime to occupy your twilight years.  Personally, I would recommend collecting rather than literature.  Let me show you my collection of cosmetic boxes.” Yao Ziqing gave his most reassuring smile.

Lan Qiren seemed to be scowling but perhaps his eyesight was starting to fail him, and he was merely squinting. “I would appreciate if you would allow me to present my findings to your disciples and to let them to decide for themselves if they would be willing to participate in the ritual.  Gusu Lan has always valued the support of your sect.”

Yao Ziqing felt it best to indulge this request.  He watched the faces of his disciples as Lan Qiren laid out his work of fiction. Yao Ziqing was not pleased with what he saw, especially on the face his nephew and heir Yao Zhiyi.  The young man looked decidedly enthusiastic.  Yao Ziqing waited until Lan Qiren left before addressing his disciples again.

“We of the Yao sect have always stood for the principles of truth and justice.  I personally have been responsible for unveiling and opposing the wicked acts of the Yiling Patriarch and I am sure you will all understand the need to refute any fictions resulting in an old man’s delusions. I will be most displeased to hear of any disciple from this sect who plans to support this ridiculous request.”

The following day Yao Zhiyi defected from the sect.  Yao Ziqing shook his head sadly.  He had been right about the boy.  He had always felt he lacked the strength to be a true leader and this just confirmed, yet again, how perceptive Yao Ziqing was.

~

The Yao Sect were welcomed to Cloud Recesses for the cultivation conference but on the first morning they were the only sect not to have any representative at the ritual to restore Wei Wuxian’s golden core.  When Yao Ziqing received the news that this had been a success, he was dubious, after all it seemed unlikely that any venture he was not involved with could wholly be a success.  No doubt they would later find out it had been some kind of illusion.  He would not let it ruin the conference for him.  His fellow sect leaders would be relying on his wisdom and insight to guide them through the days ahead, as always.

He returned to his guest quarters in the evening and was surprised to find a package sitting on the table and on top of this a letter.  The disciple guarding the door said it had been delivered by one of the servants earlier in the day, but they did not know who had sent it.  He opened the letter which carried no seal.

Sect leader Yao, or dare I call you Ziqing?

I have wanted to speak these words to you for so long but have always lacked the courage to expose my heart. For 20 years now I have sat across from you at these conferences and basked in the radiance of your presence, yet I have never dared to hope that you could reciprocate my feelings.  I have resolved to make this approach.  I hope you will forgive me for not contacting you directly.  I think my heart would shatter if I found you to be indifferent to my feelings, so I take this cowards route in the knowledge that I do not deserve your regard.  You may be from a minor sect but what is that to me? You are the sun in the sky and the water in the desert.  I long for every glance you send my way.  Everyone praises Hanguang-Jun for his sense of justice, but I have seen how he slights you.  Now, people even show respect for my Wei Wuxian, but you have always seen the truth about him.  I wish I had your integrity to refuse to take part in that farce this morning, but politics would not allow it.

Can I share with you my fantasy?  I have said so much already I hope you will indulge me.  So many people talk of the elegance and looks of Hanguang-jun and the Yiling Patriarch but your beauty casts their gaudy presence into shadow.  Their apparel would look so much more refined on you.  I can see you in my mind, draped in white, your hair loose and tied with only a red ribbon.  My heart is racing just at the thought of such perfection. 

I know I am not worthy of you.  I know this message must be discarded in disgust.  But if there is any chance you could return my affection I would be the happiest man in the world.  If there is a place in your heart for this humble petitioner, I beg you to show it by wearing the clothes I have commissioned for you.

I will remain, always yours.

The letter was unsigned.  If it was someone who attended the cultivation conferences it must be either a sect leader or their head disciple or heir.  The mention of 20 years would exclude most of the younger generation.  Yao Ziqing scanned the letter again.  At the bottom corner there was a small picture of a lotus flower.  Could it be sect leader Jiang? He noticed the crossing out of “my” before the name of Wei Wuxian.  Who else would have a relationship with the Yiling Patriarch?

Yao Ziqing considered the implications of this unexpected development.  He had been married once but that had only lasted 2 years.  His wife had been totally unsuited to the role and had asked for a divorce when she realised this.  Of course, he had granted it out of compassion for her suffering.  He had never contemplated another union, but marriage to the leader of one of the major sects would be a triumph.  Thinking back, he recognised how this could have started.  Jiang Wanyin was so young when he first inherited his position.  It would only be natural for him to develop a crush on the strongest leader he encountered.  Had there been any signs of his infatuation?  Yao Ziqing’s impression of the younger man was of a constant scowl which made discerning his feelings challenging, but when he recollected all their interactions he felt sure there had been a few lingering looks cast in his direction.  He also realised that the man had sometimes seemed to avoid him but that would make sense if he was afraid his affections would be detected.

Yao Ziqing opened the package that had come with the letter.  Inside he found a new set of robes.   They were in pale blue and white with the same style and materials favoured by Hanguang-jun.  On top was a single red ribbon.  They were vastly different from the usual stiffer fabrics he favoured, and it had been years since he had worn his hair down but that did not mean he could not outshine these young upstarts.  He pictured in his head the union of the Yao and Jiang sects with him as the power behind the two.  If this is what would please sect leader Jiang then what reason was there to disappoint him?

~

The following morning the conference started in the main hall.  Most of the sect leaders were already there, although the chief cultivator was uncharacteristically late, when Yao Ziqing made his entrance.  He was wearing the robes from the package and his hair was loose around his shoulders, bound only by the red ribbon.  The robes were a little too long for him which had the effect of making him look shorter. The overall impression was of a steamed bun draped in thin layer of tripe.  On a youthful Wei Wuxian the loose flowing hair accentuated his delicate features, on Yao Ziqing it was like seeing a cranes plumage attached to a frog.  Silence fell as the other sect leaders turned to gawp.  Once he had taken his seat a low murmur spread through the room.  At that point, the chief cultivator entered with his husband by his side.  Wei Wuxian glanced around the room until his eyes found Yao Ziqing.  He made a small squawk and ran from the room.  Hanguang-jun followed in his wake.

Lan Wangji found Wei Wuxian just outside the main hall.  He was bent over with one had clutching his stomach.  His shoulders were shaking.  Lan Wangji’s immediate concern was that something was affecting his new core.  As he approached Wei Wuxian the other man looked up and there were tears in is eyes…..tears of laughter.  He was giggling uncontrollably.

“Wei Ying?”

Wei Wuxian waved his hand at Lan Wangji as he attempted to bring his breathing under control. “Lan…”  he was shaken by another wave of laughter “..Zhan, I’m fine.”  He bent over once more before taking a deep breath and standing up straight, his mouth still stretched in a huge smile.  Lan Wangji caught his breath at the sight.  Wei Ying’s smiles always shone brilliantly but since he had received his new core, they seemed to have brightened tenfold.  He radiated health and happiness and Lan Wangji could have spent the entire day just taking in the sight.

“Did you see what sect leader Yao was wearing?”

“Mn”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I just need a minute…It would not be diplomatic to laugh in the face of one of the sect leaders.”

Wei Wuxian straightened up and composed his face.

“What is he thinking?  If I thought he had any affection for us I would have seen this as an attempt at flattery.  If it’s mockery, he’s missed his target.”

“Mn.”

Lan Wangji stood for a while, enjoying his husbands delight.  “There is not enough information to make a judgement.”

“Ok, Lan Zhan.  We should go back.  I think I can control myself now.”  He started back to the hall but when he realised Lan Wangji was not immediately following him, turned to see him standing with a small smile on his face.  “Lan Zhan, are you coming?”

As they walked back towards the hall Lan Wangji could hear his husband muttering under his breath “think of dogs…. think of dogs.”

~

Yao Ziqing was very pleased with how the day had gone.  He noticed the impact his entrance had made on the entire room.  The jealousy was clear to see in the way some of his colleagues looked at him. He paid close attention to sect leader Jiang’s reaction.  Yao Ziqing had to acknowledge that the man was hard to read.  He must have had years of practice in hiding his feelings for Yao Ziqing, so it was no surprise that there was nothing to instantly show his appreciation, but it had seemed there was the glimmer of a smile at one point when he had first arrived.

His thoughts were confirmed when he returned to his quarters to find another letter.

Ziqing (My Ziqing?)

You must forgive my calligraphy.  My hands are shaking still from the strength of feelings you have roused in me.  I wish there were some way to capture the image that graced my eyes today.  I will be feasting on it for hours tonight.  Your radiance shone so bright I thought the sun had come down from the heavens to grace our assembly.  What must you think of my inane ramblings?  I know I am unworthy of you, but now you have granted my petition, could it be that you return my feelings?

No, I cannot allow hope to take hold.  I know you are a generous and kind man.  No doubt you acted today to avoid a cruel rejection.  But…

I have another supplication.  The Lan sect is always held up as the embodiment of musical achievement, but I have heard another rumour.  It was once said that sect leader Yao’s singing voice could make the gods weep at its beauty.  Sadly, I have never had the privilege of confirming this.  I know you are a humble, a modest man but such talent should not be hidden from the world.

Ziqing, if you hold any affection for me in your heart, I beg you to sing for us at tomorrow’s feast.  Such inspiration must surely help me to muster the courage to reveal my passion to all.

Yours with all my heart

Again, there was no signature, but the lotus flower was slightly larger.

Yao Ziqing was a little shaken.  Of course, singing was another of his many accomplishments, it was just that he had not sung in many years.  He wondered who could have spoken so eloquently of his talent in this area.  He was also a little bemused as to why Sect Leader Jiang was still acting so coy.  Surely having worn his chosen outfit was a clear sign that Yao Ziqing was receptive to his affections.  He realised that Jiang Wanyin’s gruff exterior must cover up a host of insecurities and deduced that his relationship to the infamous Yiling Patriarch was no doubt at the route of these.  If a song was what it took to reassure him then a song is what he would get.

~

The following day was taken up with the usual boring business of intersect discussions, but it was the evening’s entertainment which would leave lasting impressions on so many present.  As soon as the feast had finished, Sect Leader Yao stood up and gestured for silence.

“I would like to provide some entertainment for my esteemed colleagues tonight in thanks for the hospitality and the company.”

He then launched into a long ballad detailing a romantic story of longing and eventual happiness. 

The Lan sect is known for its musical appreciation.  It is also known for its self-control so most of the Lan attendees that evening adopted the kind of stoic, stony faced expressions perfected by Hanguang-jun.  Those of a musical disposition from other sects were less discrete.  There were many pained faces and a few sniggers from those who had indulged in the wine on offer.  A young Lan disciple had broken the rules to sneak in to observe the feast that evening.  Lan Qiren decided to renounce the usual copying of the rules, saying he had been punished enough for his error. Those who were tone deaf were considered to be the luckiest of the crowd.  They merely looked bored, as they did at any musical recital.  Wei Wuxian dashed from the room after the first few lines of the song.  The chief cultivator, unfortunately, could follow him and his face showed no emotion at all.  Only those who knew him extremely well could have detected the control it was taking to not put his hands over his ears.  Yao Ziqing finished to silence.  Lan Xichen, ever the diplomat, rose and thanked him for his performance.

“Sect leader Yao, thank you for that truly unique performance. I am sure we will all remember it for years to come.”

~

Later in the Jingshi Wei Wuxian was combing Lan Wangji’s hair.

“I’m sorry I left you to endure that alone but I don’t think I could have kept a straight face and I would hate to cause offence to a guest of Gusu Lan.”

“No need for apologies”

“So.  ” Wei Wuxian frowned in thought. “It doesn’t look like any curse that I have heard of… which means there must be something else going on.  He might be losing his mind, but he seems to be acting rationally, or at least consistently for the rest of the time.  What do you think?”

Lan Wangji turned to look at his husband.  “There is not enough evidence to make a determination.”

“My thoughts exactly, so we need to investigate.  I’ve never liked the pompous idiot, but this is beyond his usual grandstanding.  An unstable sect leader could cause untold damage.”

“Mn”

“I think I will get Sizhui and Jingyi to help.  You have to attend the meeting tomorrow, but I think I’ll have some problems adjusting to my new core which means I will have to stay away.”

“Mn”  Lan Wangji looked at him more intensely.  “You are not, are you?”

Wei Wuxian was looking into the distance focussed on his plans for the next day.  “Eh? Not what?”

“Having problems with the new core?”

“Ah Lan Zhan, don’t worry.  My new core and I are getting along very well.”  A gleam entered his eyes, “there is one side effect, however…”

“Wei Ying?”

A huge smile crept across his face. “I can’t seem to keep my hands off my husband.  It has been sheer torture today not being able to touch you…”  he reached across to cup Lan Wangji’s face with his hand, “to kiss you..”  he kissed his lips slowly then pulled away, “to devour you.”

All plans for the next day were forgotten for the rest of the night.

~

Mid-morning the following day the sect leaders were entrenched in lengthy discussions about intersect co-operation on addressing trade agreements.  Wei Wuxian was in an empty storeroom close to Sect Leader Yao’s quarters discussing his plan with Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi.  He had finished outlining his intention to use a paperman to infiltrate the rooms in order to search for clues.

“Sizhui, I’ll need you to stay with my body here to make sure no one comes across me, and Jingyi, you can help my paperman get close to the back window.”

“No.”  Sizhui had his usual pleasant expression but there was a hint of steel in his response.

“Would you rather do it the other way around?  That’s fine, I don’t mind.  I just thought..”

“No,” the fact Sizhui had interrupted him gave Wei Wuxian some idea of the depth of feeling behind the statement.  “we’re not following your plan.”

Wei Wuxian looked confused and a little surprised.  He could not remember Sizhui ever objecting to a plan of his before.  “Why not?”

Sizhui sighed and looked at him fondly.  “When you put your full consciousness into a paperman, if that paperman gets damaged then so does your consciousness.  Correct?”

Wei Wuxian still looked puzzled “yes”.

“And if that paperman gets destroyed then so does your consciousness.  Yes?”

“A-Yuan, there’s no need to worry.  I’ve done this before.  It’s not like there’s any danger in there.”

Sizhui did not look convinced.  “Dad, you did it when you infiltrated Jin Guangyao’s treasure room, when you and father were the only ones who believed in his crimes, when it was the only way to counter the evil he had been perpetrating for years.  Do you think Sect Leader Yao’s odd clothing choice is, in any way, as urgent?  Does this warrant the risk to you?”

Wei Wuxian stroked the side of his nose as he considered this, then pointed at Sizhui.

“What do you suggest then?”

Sizhui brightened “I am the head disciple of the Lan Sect.  If the pest repelling talismans have been damaged, it is my duty to ensure no pests have managed to disturb the sect leaders’ quarters.”

“And have the pest repelling talismans been damaged?  Isn’t lying forbidden?”  Wei Wuxian’s tone was serious but he had a glint in his eye.

“They will be, once Jingyi gets to them and damages them.” Sizhui adopted his best innocent expression.

“A-Yuan! A-Yuan, you really are my son!”  Wei Wuxian draped his arm across Sizhui’s shoulder and, when he noticed Jingyi looking abandoned at the side, draped the other arm around him.  “You are my favourite Lans, after Lan Zhan of course.”

~

At midday Wei Wuxian met up with Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi. 

“So, my sneaky son, what did you find?”  Wei Wuxian was bouncing with energy.

Sizhui looked deflated.  “I’m sorry dad, there was nothing.  No sign of any cursed objects, no sense of resentful energy.  There were some notes on the meetings and a letter from his tailor but nothing out of the ordinary.  I’ve failed you.”  He looked down at the floor.

Wei Wuxian reached out a hand and gently lifted Sizhui’s chin so he could look in his eyes. “Don’t be ridiculous A-Yuan.  Weren’t you the one who told me to put this inspection in perspective?”  He gave a lopsided smile, “after all we can’t all find the decapitated heads of sect leaders lying around, can we?”

Jingyi gave an undignified snort as Sizhui smiled.  “What do we do next?” Sizhui asked.

“What I would like you two to do, is discretely,” he looked pointedly at Jingyi, “watch Sect leader Yao.  Tell me where he goes, who he talks with and anything else he does.  Can you do that?”

There were two sharp nods.  “What will you do?” Sizhui queried.

“I think I will find Lan Zhan and see if he can get away for a few minutes at lunch.  I’d like to play for him.  You probably can’t tell but he’s still traumatised by that performance last night.”

Jingyi gave a shudder in sympathy and the young men walked briskly away.

~

After lunch there was a break before the afternoon discussions started.  Yao Ziqing was impatient to see if he had received any more correspondence.  In his room he found a third letter.

My dearest Ziqing,

I thought my heart would explode from love last night.  I have never heard such beauty from a mortal voice.  How is it that you have not been claimed by the fairest cultivators in the land? 

I was also incensed.  How dare Wei Wuxian slight you in such a rude manner?  I noticed him walk out, as did everyone there.  I longed to defend you but my relationship with the Chief Cultivator and his husband is too complicated at the moment.  You must be so disappointed in me.  I know your courage far exceeds my own.  It is yet another demonstration of how unworthy I am of you.  You should ask to spar with him.  He claims to have this new golden core but I am convinced it is all a deception.  He is still the weak non-cultivator he has always been. Everyone here should see him face a real cultivator and recognise him for the fraud he is. 

No, that is too much to ask.  How can I expect you to act when I cannot?  But if I could witness you defeat him in combat it would be the greatest joy of my life.  Just the thought of seeing you with your sword drawn makes my heart race.  I so wish I had the courage to face you, to be sure that my feelings are reciprocated.  I beg that you will forgive this timid man, I have been hurt to many times before.

Your devoted admirer

Yao Ziqing smiled at how his performance had been received by his admirer although he had seen little signs of this on Jiang Wanyin’s face the night before.  He could not help, however, a sense of impatience with his prevarication.  Surely a sect leader of his experience should be able to accept the gestures Yao Ziqing had made for what they were without needing further signs of his intentions.  There was a part of him that wanted to give up this charade but then he remembered Lotus Pier.  It was not the richest of the major sects but its borders were far larger than his lands.  He pictured himself as the power behind the sect.  It was obvious from his letters that Jiang Wanyin needed guidance, in fact it was a wonder he had manager this long on his own.  Yao Ziqing would become the de facto leader of two sects.  He would even become a logical choice as the next chief cultivator 

He considered Jiang Wanyin’s request.  He had no problem with demonstrating his prowess at sword fighting, and the chance to humiliate the Yiling Patriarch was very tempting.  If Jiang Wanyin said the ritual was a farce, then it must be true.  He gripped his sword as he headed back to the main hall.  He would do it.

~

Wei Wuxian joined Lan Wangji in the conference at the end of the afternoon’s meeting and reported on the lack of progress in his investigation.  They were about to leave for some time alone together before the evening’s banquet when a voice rang out through the hall.

“Fellow cultivators, could I have another moment of your time?”  Sect Leader Yao turned towards Wei Wuxian.  “Wei Wuxian, we have all heard of your miraculous new core but I’m sure we are all keen to see your newfound abilities demonstrated.  I challenge you to a sparring match now.”  At this he drew his sword with a flourish.

Wei Wuxian looked at his husband and gave a small shake of his head.

“Sect leader Yao.  I am honoured by your request but I am sure everyone here would prefer a chance to refresh themselves before tonight’s banquet.”

“We Wuxian, I am sure many people here remember when you continually refused to carry a sword.  We keep hearing that you are innocent of the charges laid against you in your first life, but you are still avoiding the customs of the cultivation world.  Do you think yourself above us all?  What are you hiding?”  His gaze swept around the room in search of support.  Most people avoided his gaze, but sect leader Ouyang looked thoughtful.

Lan Wangji had a hard look on his face and was about to step forward when Wei Wuxian put a restraining hand on his arm.  He gave a lopsided smile before responding.

“Sect leader Yao, I had no intention of being discourteous.  If you wish to spar, of course I am happy to oblige.”

~

As they were walking towards the sparring grounds Lan Wangji pulled Wei Wuxian to one side.

“Be careful” he said.

“Lan Zhan, don’t worry.  Do you think old man Yao could hurt the Yiling Patriarch?”  Wei Wuxian bumped shoulders with him.

“Erratic behaviour suggests unknown forces at play.”

“If I get into any difficulty I am sure Hanguang-jun will come to his husband’s rescue.”  Wei Wuxian fluttered his eyelashes at Lan Wangji.

“Mn”

~

The sparring grounds were full as everyone was curious to see the outcome of this match.  Yao Ziqing scanned the crowds for Sect leader Jiang.  He was standing next to his nephew and looked vaguely bored in contrast to the young Jin Ling who was practically bouncing in excitement.  No doubt once Jiang Wanyin and he were married the Jin sect leader would come to his new uncle for advice.  He stepped forward to face Wei Wuxian and they bowed to each other before raising their swords in preparation.  Yao Ziqing thrust forward but before he could even blink, found himself flat on his back with Suibian at his throat.

“Ah, my apologies sect leader Yao.  I thought you were ready to start.”  Wei Wuxian reached out a hand to help him off the ground.

Yao Ziqing brushed off the offered hand and stood on his own.  He put his sword up ready to go again.  This time he lunged forward and Wei Wuxian deflected his thrust.  They exchanged a few parries until Yao Ziqing realised that he was the only one of the pair making any offensive strikes.  Wei Wuxian was merely employing defensive moves.

“Stop playing games and fight back.” he shouted at the other man.

Wei Wuxian gave a small sigh and moved towards Yao Ziqing.  This time he landed on the ground face down with Suibian at the back of his neck.  He scrabbled to his feet and turned back towards Wei Wuxian who had already sheathed his sword and was bowing towards him.

“Sect leader Yao. Thank you for this opportunity. I am sure everyone is now ready for the evening’s entertainment.”  With that Wei Wuxian turned away and started to walk towards Lan Wangji.  Yao Ziqing was enraged.  He looked towards Jiang Wanyin who had also turned to go back to the main hall.  This could not be happening.  Wei Wuxian must have used one of his crafty tricks on him.  Without thought he ran towards the man who was walking away from him, his sword levelled at that arrogant back.  The movement was so rapid this time that he did not see anything.  The next thing he knew he was back on the ground looking up at his nemesis with Suibian once more at his throat.  This time however there was a slight pressure as the blade nicked his skin there.  Wei Wuxian was smiling as ever but there was a hardness behind his eyes.

“Sect leader Yao, I was under the impression we had finished.  Surely you are aware of the danger of attacking a fellow cultivator who is unprepared.  I would be mortified if an accident were to happen.”  At this he increased the pressure on the sword by the slightest degree.  “Are we done now?”

Yao Ziqing did not dare nod his head so forced out a curt “Yes”.

~

There was a tense atmosphere at the banquet that evening.  The Chief Cultivator looked as if he was ready to commit murder and it was only his husband’s placating presence that was holding him back.  The Lan sect were forbidden to gossip but that did not apply to the other sects and there were many whispered conversations taking place with questioning glances directed toward sect leader Yao.  Yao Ziqing, meanwhile, sat there quietly fuming.  He was in turmoil at the thought that he had forfeited the chance to marry into one of the major sects.  How could this happen to him?  Of course, he knew who was to blame.  The Yiling Patriarch ruined other people’s lives without a second thought.  How could his fellow cultivators be so blind to him now?  He kept glancing surreptitiously through the letters he had received which he carried in his qiankun pouch.  They offered little comfort.

He rushed back to his quarters as soon as it was possible to leave the assembly.  It was without the usual anticipation that he saw a new letter in his room.  He was hesitant to open it.  Could Jiang Wanyin be telling him their connection was over?  He reached for the letter.  He was Yao Ziqing, a respected sect leader and whatever the outcome he knew his worth.

~

As they watched sect leader Yao rush from the hall at the end of the banquet Wei Wuxian put a hand on Lan Wangji’s arm.

“Lan Zhan, calm down.  You’re scaring the serving staff.”

“He attacked you when your back was turned.  He should be called to answer for that.” Lan Wangji’s whole posture showed the anger he was holding in.

“I know, but he’s a barely competent swordsman. I was in no danger.  We still don’t know what is going on with him and until we do, we should avoid jumping to conclusions.  Isn’t that what you are always telling me? Now, did you notice the notes he kept looking at this evening?”

“No.”

Wei Wuxian shook his head with a fond smile.  “That’s because you were too busy trying to eviscerate him with your eyes!  He had some notes or letters in his qiankun pouch, and he kept glancing at them under the table.  Whatever was in them did not seem to give him any pleasure so we need to find a way to look at them.  I have a plan but I’m going to need Jin Ling and Ouyang Zizhen for this one.  Come on let’s catch them before they leave for their quarters.”

~

Wei Wuxian managed to lure the unsuspecting objects into a side room off the main hall.  Jin Ling looked suspicious but executed a perfect bow when he realised Lan Wangji was present.  Ouyang Zizhen was openly curious and looked expectantly at Wei Wuxian.

“Jin Ling, Zizhen, how would you feel about helping us with an investigation?”

Jin Ling looked suspicious, “What are you up to?”

Zizhen however seemed flattered, “Whatever you need, senior Wei, Hanguang-Jun.  I would be honoured to help you.  Do you want me to challenge that brute, sect leader Yao?  Everyone is talking about how he just attacked you like that. It was shocking, even my father was surprised, and they’ve been friends forever.  I would be happy to seek justice on your behalf.” His gaze became glazed as if he was picturing the scene as he spoke.

We Wuxian held his hand up.  “No, please don’t do anything like that. It is relating to Sect leader Yao, however.  Zizhen, has you father said anything about Yao Ziqing’s behaviour these last few days?”

Zizhen looked slightly disappointed not to have a chance to engage in a heroic battle on behalf of his senior.  “No.  He’s noticed how odd sect leader Yao has been but,…well my dad isn’t one to start a conversation.  Mostly, dad just agrees with whatever Yao Ziqing says and then they have a rant about the youth of today, and that’s pretty much the extent of their interactions. I did raise it with him last night after that performance,” he winced at the memory “he just said, Ziqing will tell me when he wants me to know.”

Wei Wuxian pondered this.  “So, whatever is going on it’s something he won’t share with his closest friend.  How do you two feel about borrowing another sect leader’s belongings,….without them knowing?”

“You mean stealing.” Jin Ling looked both offended and excited.  He glanced questioningly at Lan Wangji but received no response.

“I mean borrowing with the intention of returning the item when we have examined it.”

“Why us?” Jin Ling asked.

Wei Wuxian started pacing across the room as he explained. “We need someone who can approach sect leader Yao without putting him on the offensive which rules out me or Lan Zhan.  Both of you have every reason to be present in the discussions and are young enough that he is not likely to suspect you of conspiring against him, ….which will be where he is wrong.  Jin Ling, you will need to engage him in a conversation.  It doesn’t matter what it is about, but I suggest you try flattering him, ask him for advice about something.  Zizhen, once he is distracted by Jin Ling I need you to bump into him and touch this to his qiankun pouch.”

Wei Wuxian held out a tiny piece of paper with the smallest talisman markings they had ever seen.

Zizhen was instantly enthralled.  “What does it do senior Wei?”

“This is a short-range transportation talisman.  It can transport a small item to a designated location as soon as it makes contact with the item. It uses very little spiritual energy so should not be detectable to anyone who is not looking for it when activated.  Do you think you can do it?”

Zizhen started nodding keenly. Jin Ling looked at Lan Wangji “Is this a request from the Chief Cultivator,” he then looked at Wei Wuxian, “or my mad uncle?”

Lan Wangji took the question seriously.  “Sect leader Jin, this request is unorthodox but the recent behaviour by sect leader Yao is of sufficient concern to warrant discrete enquiries to be made.  I cannot compel you to assist, but I believe it is in the best interests of the cultivation world to uncover the cause.  Any instability in the leadership of the sects can create strife amongst us.”

Jin Ling looked momentarily shocked to have received a serious explanation.  He raised his chin before responding. “The Jin sect is happy to be of assistance.”  He then turned to Wei Wuxian and in a whiny voice continued, “does it have to be me who speaks to him, though?  He’s so annoying!”

Wei Wuxian laughed at this. “You are a sect leader, Zizhen is not.  He’ll want a chance to impress you.. or at least bore you.”

“Ugh, I’m going to bed.  See you tomorrow Zizhen.”

~

The following morning was the last day of the conference.  The delegates mingled before the closing speeches.  Yao Ziqing was flattered that the young sect leader Jin singled him out for a conversation.  He wondered if his uncle had dropped some hints to the young man about the nature of their relationship.  Once the marriage took place he would be another uncle to Jin Rulan.  It was only reasonable to start forming a closer relationship with him.  He realised that he could exert influence over two of the great sects.  He looked around at the other leaders gathered in the hall and started to imagine which he would need to reign in when he achieved his deserved place. He did not even notice when Ouyang Zizhen lightly brushed against him.

~

In the Jingshi Wei Wuxian was sitting with Sizhui when a brown pouch suddenly appeared and landed on the table between them. Wei Wuxian reached for it and delved inside.

“Urgh! What the….”  He lifted out a half-eaten bun which looked like those served the day before.  “Who keeps this in their pouch?”  He placed the offending item on the table and searched deeper before lifting out a bundle of letters with a flourish.  “Now this is more like it.  Let’s see who has been writing to sect leader Yao.”

He started scanning through the letters before passing each to Sizhui, with an increasingly astonished look on his face.  When he reached the last one, he suddenly leapt to his feet. “Oh no, Jiang Cheng is going to kill him,”  He ran out of the door while adding “or he’s going to kill me.”

Sizhui read the letter which had been thrown down.

My darling Ziqing

Are you ok?  Did that monster hurt you?  I was so tempted to rush to your side when he attacked you so viciously, but I knew that would make you look weak.  Everyone is saying that you performed poorly but I know the truth.  My..that man has never played fairly.  I am sure he used some of his crafty tricks on you. 

Oh, how much you must despise me.  It was only for my sake that you challenged him in the first place.  I can never forgive myself and can only beg that you consider granting me your forgiveness.   You are worth a thousand of the rest of those fools.

Your courage has inspired me.  I doubt I am worthy of your love but if you have any affection for me and could see yourself sharing your life with mine, I am yours.  If this is what you desire, then declare it for all the sects to hear at the end of the morning speeches.  I will not deny you if this is your wish also.  I can only hope to deserve such a man as you.

There was no signature but the symbol at the end was clearly drawn, a lotus flower entwined with a cypress vine, the symbol for the Yao sect.

~

When Yao Ziqing had read Jiang Cheng’s letter the night before he had relaxed.  Of course sect leader Jiang would recognise the injustice of the day’s farce.  He would know better than anyone the tricks used by the Yiling Patriarch.  Yao Ziqing was somewhat disappointed that he had not spoken up at the time but once their union was declared for everyone to see, no doubt he would feel able to tell the truth about the foul tricks used.  Yao Ziqing was relieved that these childish tasks were finished.  No doubt they appealed to someone of a romantic nature, but he was a practical, plain spoken man who preferred to get to the point.  He had wondered if he should prepare a gift to accompany his marriage proposal but decided he was gift enough.

The Chief Cultivator’s closing speech was brief as expected.  There was a final round of toasts and then his moment had arrived, his chance to show everyone present the worth of Yao Ziqing.  He rose to his feet conscious of the stir he was about to precipitate.

“My fellow cultivators, can I ask for your attention before we all leave the gracious hospitality of the Gusu Lan.”

Lan Wangji looked uncomfortable but gave a curt nod.

“I have an announcement to make.  A joyous event is to be anticipated. I stand here before you all to declare my intention to wed sect leader Jiang.  We are in love and I wish to formalise our engagement today.”  At this he walked towards sect leader Jiang offering his hand.

At this moment Wei Wuxian came running through the doors and stopped abruptly when he saw the sight before him.  Jiang Cheng had risen to his feet but was backing away from Yao Ziqing rather than accepting the offered hand.  He looked stunned at first and then angry.  Sparks started flying from Zidian as those nearest to him rapidly moved to give him space.

“I have no idea what you are talking about sect leader Yao and I do not appreciate this joke. I have absolutely no interest in..”  he seemed to be having difficulty getting the word out, “marrying you!  You have been acting crazy the last few days.  You’ve been wearing this,” he pointed at the robes Yao Ziqing had on with a sneer, “weird clothing and screeching at us all in the name of entertainment and now you think you can suggest I would want to marry that?   I think you need to see the healers.” 

Yao Ziqing stood there in shock for a moment before looking around the room, as if for support.  “but you sent me letters.” He reached for his qiankun pouch but found empty space.

He looked up and his eyes came to rest on Wei Wuxian.  He lifted his had to point.  “It’s him!  He’s done something.  You must all see the malignant influence of the Yiling Patriarch in all this.  You know me.  Who here can say I am at fault?”

Yao Ziqing nodded to himself. That should make them all think.  He was shocked at sect leader Jiang’s reaction but now realised he must have been affected by some external factor.  He certainly could not be found to be at fault.

Jiang Wanyin looked at him with undisguised disgust but it was not him who responded.

“Sect leader Yao.”  An authoritative voice boomed across the room as Lan Qiren stepped forward with a stern face.  “You have behaved disgracefully these last few days.  How you choose to dress is up to you.  Your lack of musical ability is to be pitied, but attacking a sparring partner when his back is turned is the act of a coward, and now you choose to insult a member of my family in front of the entire conference.  I insist that you apologise to master Wei!”

Yao Ziqing took a step back.  He could not believe that Lan Qiren was attacking him so publicly.

“Grandmaster Lan, we have been friends for many years.  How can you be so blind?  Surely you’re not defending him?  Everyone here can see I am the wronged party in this.”  He looked around the room but everyone avoided his eyes.  There was some uncomfortable shuffling as people tried to distance themselves from Yao Ziqing without being too obvious about it.

“Sect leader Yao, if you refuse to apologise to Wei Wuxian, I suggest you leave Cloud Recesses now.  You are no longer welcome here.  I will be writing to your elders to express my concern about your ongoing suitability to represent your sect.”  Lan Qiren pointedly turned his back on Yao Ziqing to talk to Lan Xichen.

Yao Ziqing moved towards sect leader Ouyang who had always been his closest friend.  He immediately turned away to talk to a disciple standing next to him who he probably did not even know. No one voiced any support for him or made any effort to speak to him.  He flushed up to the roots of his hair, his face now matching the red ribbon tied there, and stormed from the room.

~

The remaining sect leaders were finally preparing to leave, having retired to their rooms to pack.  As they were waiting to say their farewells to the Lan leaders, Wei Wuxian sidled up to sect leader Nie.

“Brother Nie, I know what you did.”

Nie Huaisang gave a small laugh.  “Brother Wei, I don’t know what you are talking about.”

Wei Wuxian produced one of the letters from Yao Ziqing’s pouch.  “I’ve travelled to many places and wherever I go I buy paper for letters and drawing.  You see this paper here?”  He held the paper out so Nie Huaisang could look more closely at it.  “If you look closely there are small, grey, blue speckles in the paper.  There is only one place I have see this type of paper before… in Qinghe.”

Nie Huaisang started fluttering his fan.  “Ah.  come now Brother Wei, surely you can’t be upset over a little prank on sect leader Yao.  He refused to allow any in his sect to help restore your core.  He needed to be brought down a peg or two.”

Wei Wuxian looked at him with a frown.  “You’re saying you did all this just for me?”  He stared at the other man with scepticism clear on his face.

After a few moments Nie Huaisang added, “He said rude things about my brother.”

Wei Wuxian smiled but it did not reach his eyes.  “I understand how attached you are to your brother so you will understand when I say this.”  He turned so he was fully facing Nie Huaisang.  “If there are any repercussions for Jiang Cheng from your ‘prank’ the walls of the Unclean Realm will not be thick enough to protect you from me.”

Nie Huaisang gave a nervous laugh. 

“I do have one question though.” Wei Wuxian added.  “How could you be sure I would take these letters?  If Yao Ziqing had been able to produce them it would have been clear someone was playing games with him.”

Nie Huaisang lowered his fan and clicked his fingers.  The letter Wei Wuxian was holding disintegrated in to dust.

Wei Wuxian laughed.  “Clever, very clever.”  He bowed and walked away to join his husband.

~

Lan Wangji’s eye were on Nie Huaisang.  “It was him.”  It was not a question.

Wei Wuxian sighed. “Who else?  He claims it was to avenge sect leader Yao’s neglect of me but it seems far more likely to be revenge for some unfortunate remarks about Nie Mingjue.”

“Mn.”  Lan Wangji’s tone was sceptical.  “Do you recognise the Nie disciple standing behind him?”

Wei Wuxian scanned the group of disciples in the Nie colours. “He looks vaguely familiar.”

“He is Yao Zhiyi.”

Understanding dawned on Wei Wuxian’s face.  “Sect leader Yao’s nephew?”  He started to stroke the side of his nose. “When the Yao elders hear of their sect leader’s behaviour they will not be happy, in fact it would be no surprise if they decide to depose the old man, in which case the heir would be ..”  He looked expectantly at Lan Wangji.

“Yao Zhiyi.”

Wei Wuxian laughed.  “Oh, Huaisang, Huaisang, you sly old fox.  So, the young Yao heir was given refuge by the Nie clan and now the new sect leader Yao will be in Nie Huaisang’s debt.  Well, I can’t honestly see anyone mourning the loss of Yao Ziqing, so let’s just hope his nephew does not take after him.”

“Mn.”

~

As Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji walked slowly towards their home, hand in hand Wei Wuxian suddenly stopped and turned to face Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan, you have a better memory than me.  Have I ever done anything to upset Nie Huaisang?”

Lan Wangji pondered for a few moments.  “You told me you once pushed him into a river.”

Wei Wuxian put his free hand to his face. “Lan Zhan, I’m doomed.  I’ll have to spend the rest of my life looking over my shoulder!”

“I will watch your shoulder.”

Wei Wuxian laughed and bumped shoulders as they continued to walk.

“I once put a silencing spell on him.” 

Wei Wuxian turned to his husband with a look of horror on his face.

“And I took away his fan.” Lan Wangji added.

“What, why, when!!”

“Mn.  It was when you were wandering.”  There was a slightly sad look in Lan Wangji’s eyes.  “at the discussion conference….  He kept tapping it on the table…..  It was distracting.”

“Lan Zhan!  What are we going to do?”  Wei Wuxian considered for a moment.  “We’ll be fine.  He likes us.  We got revenge for his brother.  He wouldn’t come after us.”

They walked a few more steps. “Of course a gift couldn’t hurt….A new fan perhaps?”

“Mn”

“He’s always admired my painting, so perhaps I could paint it, make it more personal.  We wouldn’t want him to think we were slighting him.”

“Mn”

~

Epilogue

Yao Ziqing cannot understand how this happened to him.  The elders have replaced him, him, Yao Ziqing, the greatest leader the sect has ever had.  He has been replaced by that failure of a nephew!  How can they be so blind?  He has warned them all for years about the dangers posed by Wei Wuxian, surely they can see that he was the cause of the slight disruption at the cultivation conference.  He has been banned from speaking to any of the disciples and confined to the grounds of the sect compound.  He cannot even write letters without them passing through one of the elders first.  He knows if he could just explain the situation to his people, they would see that he was correct, as always, in his insight.  He would be able to persuade them with his words of wisdom and be welcomed back as sect leader.

But no one is listening.