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Chapter Text

“There’s a way,” says his uncle as he turns towards Lan Xichen. “If Yunmeng Jiang joins forces with us, we have more leverage over Qishan Wen.”

“Yunmeng Jiang?” questions Xichen, bewildered. “Uncle, Yunmeng Jiang has assumed neutrality since before the war started. You know that’s near impossible.”

“Hmm,” says his uncle, in deep thought. “I don’t think it’s nearly as impossible as you think.”

Lan Xichen is rightfully even more confused. Did uncle know something that they didn’t?

“What do you suggest, Uncle?”

His uncle turns to him. “I think it’s time for you to pay them a visit.”

“A visit?” parrots Xichen. “Last I heard, the Jiang Sect Leader is very elusive. Especially after his shixiong defected. If anything, he will be less inclined now more than ever to get involved. Us winning against the Wens may prove to be ominous for his brother’s safety.”

Another elder smiles. “That is why we must not tell him that we are seeking refuge or his assistance. Not at first.”

Lan Xichen’s eyes widen. “You suggest subterfuge? Uncle, deceit is forbidden.”

The alarm in Xichen’s voice gets his uncle’s attention and his uncle tsks.

“Perhaps we can promise his people safety after the war is over? Especially his brother.”

“I don’t think that is prudent, especially under guise of a ruse. I would not feel so inclined to help if I were in his shoes.”

The elder squares his shoulder and turns to him. “Then, he must never find out that that is your true intention in approaching him.”

Lan Xichen shakes his head, panic ridden. That is impossible.

Even if Lan Xichen were to somehow find the recluse of a sect leader, his intentions for approaching him will be apparent. Yunmeng Jiang is one of the only sects that remains powerful – and safe from being directly targeted again – despite the devastation that the Wens have caused.

“Then, what else do you suggest, Sect Leader Lan?” says the elder, exasperation coloring his features.

Lan Xichen is lost for words. He knows that they need the additional help. With the Jin clan refusing to stand against the Wens and the Nie clan already brutalized, it’s only a matter of time that the Wens come for Gusu Lan. Every day, his disciples’ lives continue to be in peril, them having accepted that they will not return home after being called away to fight the Wen forces at the Gusu borders, and there is nothing Lan Xichen can do to alleviate that fear except hope for their safe return. Now, however. Now, he has a chance to do some good. Something that may prove to be fruitful and save many lives, if it works.

But with deceit and lies?

“This is war,” says the elder. “As much as we like to hold on tightly to our principles, are they really greater than the lives of many? Yunmeng Jiang has the army of disciples and their mysterious martial art techniques favoring them. We can use any element of surprise. If they were to join and help us, this war will be over before it finally burns us all. You will be saving many innocent lives.”

Lan Xichen is still not convinced. Yes, it is true that many lives will be saved. However, what of the lives of those Jiang disciples who will be caught in the crossfire? What of those in Yunmeng Jiang who want nothing to do with this war and want to continue to live in peace?

“Please leave me to think on this matter. I cannot make promises that I don’t feel inclined to keep.”

--

That is how it all started. In the end, Lan Xichen has no real choice. After seeing countless more innocent lives becoming victims to Qishan Wen’s greed, after seeing a resounding terror and hopelessness in the face of the villagers that border the Gusu Lan territory, after holding countless disciples during their final moments, Lan Xichen concedes.

They need help and Yunmeng Jiang is the only option they have.

This is war. They have no luxury for exalting tales of honor and virtue.

He must do what needs to be done.

--

After deciding, Lan Xichen is not hasty. He tells his sect elders what he intends to do. His uncle frowns but does not say anything to deter him.

After, Lan Xichen starts to plan. He knows that he needs to prepare. He cannot afford any mistakes. So, he does.

He prepares disguises. He knows that he cannot afford to look like himself, lest he gets caught by either Qishan Wen or Yunmeng Jiang. So, he prepares masks and face paints. He prepares appropriate robes. He prepares to the most minute detail.

He trains his speech. He learns to curb the idioms, the speech, that is very specific to Gusu Lan. He knows that he does not have enough time to master the native tongue of Yunmeng. However, he does train enough to pass off as a traveler of unknown origins.

He alters some of his body language and sword fighting style as well. This one takes him days, if not weeks. He has to continuously catch himself from falling back into the mannerisms of a sect leader. This one is extremely difficult. He hopes that he practices enough.

--

Getting inside the Yunmeng Jiang territory is not difficult. There are guards planted at the borders for security. However, it is obvious that they are merely there to defend and protect instead of waiting to attack. A strange sense of warmth curls inside Lan Xichen.

He breathes a sigh of relief as he settles himself down at a nearby inn. He is waiting for his food, not yet retired to his guest room when he looks around.

There must be someone who knows where the Jiang Sect Leader is.

However, everyone around him remains oblivious to his trepidation. He knows that this is one thing that he cannot plan for he himself does not know anything about the Jiang Sect Leader.

The last time he saw anyone from Yunmeng Jiang was almost a decade ago when his brother lost his heart to Wei Wuxian, the elusive sect leader’s shixiong. Sect Leader Jiang and the esteemed Madam Yu had came for a visit, their children accompanying them. Unfortunately, they didn’t stay long, and Lan Xichen was soon called away shortly after their arrival in Gusu Lan. At the time, he had figured that there will be plenty of other times for all of them to become acquainted. However, he was wrong. Soon after, news spread that the Jiang sect had been devastated by the Wens, their parents murdered during the horror. They were the first ones to be targeted.

Everyone expected the Jiang sect to be decimated, especially after no one heard from any of the living members for years after the devastation. However, defying every expectation, they rose like a lotus would from the murky water and muddy carnage, quickly gaining back the control they had lost and drawing the Wen forces back, killing Wen Chao – Qishan Wen’s sect heir – in the process. They took back their territory in a matter of days, without any outside help, to the awe of the other sects. For a brief period, everyone felt hopeful. After all, they were the light that everyone had been seeking – hoping for. Unfortunately, the happiness was short-lived.

In a matter of weeks after their return, Yunmeng Jiang re-established their previous stance of neutrality. Honoring the past agreements, no one could force Yunmeng Jiang to bear arms if they themselves did not wish it. There was no convincing the Jiangs, missives after missives for help going unanswered and their borders remaining close when faced with any political upheaval. Only travelers visiting for trade business or indulgence were allowed. This point became even more pronounced when Wei Wuxian defected to protect the Wens. The Jiang sect was so hard-pressed on neutrality that they did not budge on their stance at all, only asking Wei Wuxian to leave and conduct his business outside of the border of Yunmeng Jiang.

For what feels like the hundredth time since he left Gusu, Lan Xichen sighs again. Why does this feel so hopeless?

How can his elders expect him to achieve what even the sect leader’s shixiong could not? The more he thinks about it, the more futile his attempts feel. However, what other choice does he have?

“This is perhaps the seventh time you have sighed ever since you came in,” says a sardonic voice from next to him.

Lan Xichen looks up, startled, at the man smirking down at him.

Oh.

“My apologies,” he says quickly. “I meant no disrespect. It has been a long day.”

The man shakes his head, his smirk still in place. He goes to place a dish in front of Lan Xichen.

“Ah, I have not ordered anything yet.”

The man looks at him, amused. “I know. After the fourth time you sighed, I decided to make you something, so you are too busy with sampling food to sigh.”

Lan Xichen’s cheeks color in embarrassment. This is going swimmingly, he chides himself.

Looking at the dish placed in front of him, his expression turns apologetic again.

“Whereas this one appreciates your kind gesture, I must apologize for not being able to accept it. I do not eat meat.”

The person’s eyebrows shoot up, almost meeting his hairline. “You do not eat meat? That’s certainly…unexpected.”

The person gives Lan Xichen a onceover before humming in thought. Lan Xichen usually finds other people’s lingering gazes repulsive. However, the stranger has been kind to him, and he does not seem to have any ill-intent towards Lan Xichen. So, he cannot muster any disgust in response.

“Wait here,” says the person before going somewhere and Lan Xichen is left bewildered.

After few moments where Lan Xichen idly watches the crowd and thinks of what else to do, the man returns.

“Here,” he says, placing something in front of Lan Xichen.

Lan Xichen’s eyes widen. The rich aroma of spices clouds his senses and his mouth waters. His stomach gives a resounding growl, demanding some sustenance, and his hand reach for the chopsticks before he can help himself.

He takes a bite of the spiced tofu and eggplant dish with a small bite of rice and his eyes widen at the burst of enticing flavors swimming on his tongue. He cannot help but take few more bites before realizing that he still has not thanked the person for his thoughtfulness. However, Lan Xichen soon realizes that his untrained tongue is starting to burn from the onslaught of spices. Much to his embarrassment, he sniffles too before taking several bites of the bland rice to counter the rich flavors of the dish.

“Thank you,” he eventually rasps out after several bites of rice and huge gulps of tea.

The man in front of him looks at him in horror. “If the flavor is not to your taste, then why do you force yourself to eat?!”

Before Lan Xichen can respond, the man hurries away with the dish he placed earlier, leaving Lan Xichen only with some side dishes and rice. His stomach still protests in hunger, so he helps himself to a few more bites of the mildly flavored vegetables and pickled lotus roots.

Before he can take more than few bites, the person returns. This time, he has another dish. He places a bowl of clear broth with tofu chunks in front of Lan Xichen.

“This is more mildly spiced,” the man says. “I believe this should suit your palate better.”

Lan Xichen blinks at the man in front of him.

Is this how things in Yunmeng work? Are people usually this kind?

Amid war, Lan Xichen rarely gets moment like the one he is currently experiencing. He cannot help but feel deeply touched.

“Thank you,” he whispers. “I am unsure of what I did to deserve such consideration from you, but I am grateful nonetheless.”

Hearing this, the man’s lips become downturned and his face colors in a scowl.

“What nonsense are you spouting?! You are a customer. If I don’t take care of you then who will?”

Lan Xichen blinks at him again, realization dawning at him. His face colors with embarrassment and he smiles sheepishly at the man.

“Regardless, for you to care for my palate and bring me something that is more compatible with my range is still something to be appreciated.”

The man scoffs. “Just eat. You were devouring those side dishes as if you hadn’t had a decent meal in a while.”

Lan Xichen can do nothing but smile in response. After all, he is hungry and lying is forbidden. When Lan Xichen sips the first spoonful of broth, he cannot help but let out a grateful sigh. It is richly flavored, yet not overpoweringly so.

“This is delicious!” he exclaims as he looks at the man still standing by him.

The man’s expression is that of relief once he hears Xichen. His whole countenance loosens. He smiles crookedly at Xichen before walking away to attend other customers.

Xichen feels a momentary sense of loss from watching him walk away. Because of his long travel to Yunmeng, he hasn’t had much company. Being a sect leader, he is always surrounded by people. However, he hasn’t had that in a while and the inn keeper’s insistence on Xichen finding his food acceptable brings back the nostalgia of being around his near and dear ones.

Lan Xichen soon finishes all that was placed in front of him. He heaves another sigh again after sipping the last spoonful of his soup.

“Sighing again?” he hears as he sees the man take a seat in front of him.

“Oh, please don’t let me keep you from your responsibilities!” Xichen is quick to insist.

The man chuckles. “Something must really be troubling you if you haven’t noticed that there is barely anyone here. People are already getting back to what they need to do during the day, so they no longer need to dawdle here.”

Once the man points it out, Lan Xichen looks around to find that the tables are indeed nearly empty.

Have I really just not noticed? How?

He mentally chides himself for being so absentminded.

The man in front of him chuckles and Xichen can’t help but feel startled.

Oh. The man has an exceptional smile.

Of course, this is not a new observation. The man’s smirk is just as endearing but there is something so happy about his chuckle that it lightens Xichen’s heart. Amid all the death, he has rarely gotten an opportunity to sit down and chat idly like this. So, he smiles in return.

“Thank you,” he says again, this time with a wide and grateful smile.

The man’s smile softens further. “I am glad that we were able to find something that suits your taste. It’s rare for anyone to come to try Yunmeng cuisines without at least having some affinity or tolerance for spices. Forgive me for my presumptuousness.”

Lan Xichen startles at this and shakes his head to quell the man’s worries. “Everything that I had the opportunity to try was truly delicious. My tolerance might be sorely lacking but it did not make the experience any less enjoyable.”

“You were drenched with sweat, and you had tears rolling down your cheeks,” the man responds, dryly.

“I am not used to the weather in Yunmeng yet. And I was overwhelmed with the exquisite taste of the dishes!”

Lying is forbidden, but Xichen has long since learned how to work around some of those rules. Both of those things are true, after all.

The man scoffs again before turning to the wait staff and gesturing for them to clear the dishes.

“You have come at a perfect time to try our moon cakes. The Mid-Autumn Festival is in few days, so we are trying different varieties for our stall at the festival.”

Before Lan Xichen can protest, the moon cakes are being placed in front of him. His words die on his tongue as the fresh aroma of nuts and fruits fill his nostrils. Despite him having just eaten, his mouth begins to water again.

The man slides the sweet delicacies closer to Xichen, looking exceedingly amused. “If there is a flavor that you favor over others, let us know. We are still in the process of sampling and deciding on the final line-up.”

Lan Xichen looks at the pastries, mesmerized. His chopsticks soon grab hold of one, and he has to physically stop himself from shoving the whole thing in his mouth. He takes a delicate bite and chews, thoughtfully. Just like before, he eyes widen at the range of flavors that dance on his tongue.

“How is it possible for something to be this delicious?” he asks as he stares at the pastry that is gently held between his chopsticks, not really expecting any response.

He makes quick work of that one and goes on to trying another one. This one too is an explosion of unexpected – but mouth-watering – flavors. Whereas the previous one had a red bean paste filling, this one has something richer and sweeter with pine nuts enhancing the flavors even further. Xichen is left mesmerized again.

“I take it that you like them?” asks the man in front of him. Xichen does not know how he knows but he feels that he is being made fun of. However, he does not feel even a slight need to defend his honor when he feels especially sated.

He takes one final sip of his tea before concluding his meal.

“You have a fine establishment here,” he offers. “I have never eaten such flavorful delicacies.”

The man’s eyes soften in response. “You seemed troubled,” he says, the offer to listen remaining unspoken.

Lan Xichen’s smile dims.

“I am looking for someone,” he says, unsure of whether he should reveal the identity of the person.

The man’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. He looks intrigued.

“Has this person wronged you in some way?” the man asks.

Xichen shakes his head. “This person is the only one that can help me and my family.”

The man’s forehead wrinkles in concern. “Are you in any kind of trouble?”

Lan Xichen does not want to lie so he does not say anything. “This person is the only one who can help,” he repeats, in lieu of answering the man’s query.

“If you don’t mind me asking,” the man tries again, “who exactly are you looking for? What does this person look like? Maybe I can help. After all, I see many travelers and natives that pass by here.”

Lan Xichen halts and thinks for a moment. The man in front of him has been nothing but kind to him. He also does not seem intent on getting Xichen’s story outside of usual curiosity and concern. Xichen knows he cannot reveal his own name but surely revealing that he is looking for the sect leader in their own territory is nothing blasphemous. Surely, that is acceptable. Where else does one look for a sect leader if not in their own home?

“I am not sure whether he has ever visited your establishment…” he says, stalling, unsure of whether he should reveal the purpose of his visit to Yunmeng.

The man chuckles. “Well, you won’t know at all if you are this secretive about it. It’s alright. Let’s not make a fuss over it. Your secrets are your own. If you must keep them close to your chest, then who am I to pry them out of you.”

The man does not seem offended in the slightest as he shakes his head with a smile.

“I wish you the best of luck in your ventures here. Yunmeng is especially vibrant this time of the year, so I hope that you are able to take some time away from your search and enjoy what this town has to offer before you return.”

The man moves to get up and leave Lan Xichen to his thoughts when Xichen’s hand shoot out to grab his wrist, halting him.

“I am looking for Sect Leader Jiang,” he blurts out in a rushed breath.

Hearing Xichen’s words, the color drains out of the man’s face as he stares at Xichen with horror-filled eyes.

Chapter Text

“How long are you planning to do this? Or are you deciding that weeding is what we have been training you for during these past years?” his mother’s cutting voice comes from behind him.

Jiang Cheng places his sickle down, dusts his hands and robes carefully before he makes to get up and face his mother.

“Mother,” he whispers. “You should not be out and about. The healer was very firm about you needing rest.”

His mother’s face morphs into disgust. “Are you ignoring your mother?”

Jiang Cheng has to hold back a sigh. It has been stressful year for all of them.

“Mother, I am just concerned. We have already lost so much. I just hope to keep all of us safe.”

“Do you?” his mother asks, as if she doesn’t believe a word he said.

Jiang Cheng is left feeling bewildered. He insists, “Yes, mother.”

His mother’s shoulders loosen for a moment. “I am alright,” she says.

Jiang Cheng nods, relieved that there will be no further argument.

“However, my question still stands. How long are you planning to do this?” she asks, as she gestures behind him.

“This is the only way we have something to eat, Mother,” he responds, softly. “We need food and Wei Wuxian only seems to be able to grow turnip. Besides we cannot stay here for long. It’s only a matter of time that the Wens come looking here as well. So, you need to heal and save your strength while we gather enough supplies—”

“A-Cheng!” his mother’s voice booms out, interrupting him. “We are not running.”

Jiang Cheng eyes widen in surprise. “Mother, we have no choice. We will be severely outnumbered. Staying will only prove to be dangerous. And unwise.”

His mother’s glare burns.

“I have not raised you to be a coward,” she grits out.

“Mother,” he sighs out. “Is it so wrong for me to wish my family remains safe? If that makes me a coward, then so be it.”

Any other time, he would berate himself for his audacity. Now, however, after everything he has gone through, he cannot muster enough strength in himself to care for such things.

He is about to turn around to continue with his work when his mother’s grip on his shoulder halts him.

“Have we really taught you nothing?!” she snarls. “When will you learn that your family doesn’t just extend to the four of us?! That a sect leader is responsible for his whole sect!”

Losing his patience, Jiang Cheng turns around. “What sect, Mother?! Look around you! We are stranded with no outside help. All the major sects have either decided to turn their back on us, remain neutral, or remain too afraid to retaliate. The only people who are willing to help are the very people who belong to our enemy, and we have no choice but to accept their help, hoping that they will not betray us in the process. What sect are you referring to, Mother? The one that got destroyed when the Wens decimated us? There is no sect. There’s no one left. It’s only us…”

His voice cracks as the despair threatens to overwhelm him again. He doesn’t think he can ever forget the looming misery and bloody carnage of that ominous week. Hoping to not lose his face any further, he shrugs out of her grip and decides that weeding can wait. He makes to leave when his mother’s voice stops him.

“A-Cheng, as long as we breathe, we have a duty towards our sect,” she whispers, her tone gentle. “Those disciples that died belonged to a family. The kitchen staff that ensured you had your favorite food had family and children. The people who protected you had responsibilities that extended beyond Lotus Pier. Yunmeng may be swarmed with the enemy but that does not make it anything but Yunmeng Jiang. Lotus Pier may be destroyed but our sect isn’t. Because it’s not a place. It’s people. People we have sworn to protect in exchange for their service and loyalty. So long as even one citizen lives, we have a duty.”

Jiang Cheng eyes widen. When Jiang Cheng doesn’t make any motion to move, she comes to him. “We cannot betray their trust, A-Cheng. I know it is sooner than any of us anticipated but it is time to take back the mantle. It is time to take Yunmeng Jiang back.”

Jiang Cheng gulps, tamping down the panic he feels every time he thinks back to what he has lost and what he came close to losing.

“Mother,” he implores one last time. However, his mother’s features are set with determination.

After the Wens almost took everything from them, he hadn’t had a moment to spare a thought to those that had no choice but to stay with no chances of escape. After a brief pause, he squares his shoulders.

“Attempt the impossible,” he whispers to himself.

His mother nods and echoes the same. “Attempt the impossible,” she says with more confidence than he is feeling.

 “Alright. But we must be careful. I am not prepared to lose anyone else.”

His mother nods in approval. “Where is Yanli and Wei Ying? We must prepare to make a trip to Meishan. We will need a few supplies to be truly prepared for what’s to come.”

--

“What did you say?” the man whispers. Xichen can feel the palpable tension that hasn’t been there sit heavily around them both.

In his periphery, Lan Xichen sees the wait staff freeze and tense. One wait staffer puts the bowls and dishes back down onto the table he is cleaning and turns towards them both. It takes a moment for Xichen to realize that the man is asking him a question. He blinks to reorient himself.

“I am unsure of what I said to cause such discomfort. You have been so kind to me, and I didn’t mean to impose on that gesture of goodwill longer than I need to. If you are unable to answer me for any reason, please simply disregard what I just said.”

Lan Xichen hopes that his apology is enough. He doesn’t want to fight his way out of an establishment that has been the most pleasant part of his journey.

The man clears his throat, and his eyes move to Xichen’s hand that is still clutching his tightly. Xichen lets go like he has been burned, his cheeks heating up despite the urgency of the situation.

Oh, you have already messed this up, haven’t you? Xichen laments.

The man sits back down and stares at Xichen for a moment, head slightly titled to the side and arms folded over his chest. Knowing that he is being heavily scrutinized, Xichen swallows down the panic that’s starting to take root in him.

“And, pray tell, why are you looking for Sect Leader Jiang?” the man asks, leaning in almost threateningly even though his expression is nothing but neutral.

Lan Xichen feels nervousness cloud his vision. He is baffled about why he feels on edge around a commoner, a seemingly harmless innkeeper, when Xichen is certain that his cultivation level equips him well enough to defend himself competently.

Lan Xichen gulps.

“My apologies,” he responds hoarsely, “that is something that I will only discuss with Sect Leader Jiang. As I said before, it is a private matter, you see.”

The man’s eyes narrow and his nostrils flare for a second before he blows out a breath.

“Very well,” he replies. “I suppose that is fair. Unfortunately, we can’t help you. I am sure you have already heard that Sect Leader Jiang is a very private person and is rarely ever spotted out and about. In fact, it is hard for anyone to even get in contact with the Jiang family.”

Lan Xichen’s shoulder slump. He doesn’t want to seem sullen, but he is tired.

“Also,” the man continues. “I would advise you not to announce your true intention. If a word were to get out that you are here to approach the sect leader, you will have a lot of trouble coming your way. Not everyone will be as civil as us. Amid everything that’s going on, we are all very protective of the Jiangs here.”

Lan Xichen nods, attempting to perk up. “Thank you for your advice. I will be more careful in the future.”

The man nods, satisfied, making to get up.

“I just have one last question, if you don’t mind!” exclaims Xichen in a hurry.

The man settles down again, exasperation obvious from the stiffness of his posture.

“If the Jiang sect is not as available, how does Yunmeng Jiang remain safe? And how do people of Yumeng ever get their queries answered? Would it not be easy for anyone to invade the land?”

The man in front of him tense and his features turn hard. “Sect Leader Jiang has ensured that that will never happen.”

Xichen wants to ask further, ask about what he really means, push for more information. However, he holds his tongue. Something in the man’s response seems like a dangerous warning and Xichen doesn’t think it prudent to pry further. For now.

Xichen nods, again, this time seemingly mollified. “I only ask because I am but a traveler looking for some rest for the night. If I am to encounter any surprises during the night, I would really appreciate the warning.”

The man narrows his eyes again.

“My establishment is perfectly safe. You may rest peacefully. However, if there is any danger, our establishment takes the safety of the guests very seriously.”

Lan Xichen feels like a fool. His journey and the sudden change in the warm demeanor on the man are starting to wear him down. It seems that no matter what he attempts, he is digging a bigger hole for himself. So, he decides to give up for the day.

“Of course!” he placates, “I am sure that you will. Thank you for the assurances.”

He slowly gets up and dusts his clothes. “I shall leave you to your work then,” he says as he makes to exit the inn.

--

Jiang Cheng is tired. He is tired of wayward men coming into Yunmeng Jiang and claiming that they have one or the other matter to discuss with Sect Leader Jiang.

“Who knew that being the last nation standing will lead to this?” says one the spiders cheekily.

He side-eyes them briefly, his glare not being quite as effective as he wished it was.

“Gusu Lan still stands,” he replies, simply.

One of his spiders come into his line of sight, intrigued. “You are thinking,” she states.

The other spider chuckles. “Well, that is good. His mother will be proud.”

Jiang Cheng stops himself from rolling his eyes.

“Follow him,” he tells the spider in front of him.

The spider’s eyes jump in surprise. “Follow a random passerby that insists on meeting Sect Leader Jiang?” she asks, as if saying it loud will make the command any less absurd.

Jiang Cheng nods. Her eyes narrow.

“Is there anything specific about this particular one that I should be paying attention to?” she asks, in lieu of asking for a reason behind his command.

Jiang Cheng shakes his head. “General surveillance. There’s something about him…”

The other spider chuckles. “Ah, yes. This is absolutely a time for an infatuation. Were those moon cakes supposed to be a courting gift?”

Jiang Cheng does roll his eyes this time.

“There’s something familiar about him and his mannerisms. He strikes me as someone who has had close dealings with Gusu Lan. It puts me at unease.”

“Gusu Lan?” comes the surprised query. “Why would he be asking for Sect Leader Jiang if he is from Gusu?”

“I am not sure what makes me so certain. I remember only from what little I learned of them during sect visits, but it’s his mannerisms. It reminds me of someone. His speech is distinctive, so I am uncertain of its true origin. However, there are things that make me curious. He does not eat meat and he cannot handle spices. Who comes to Yunmeng just to be served salted vegetable broth? On the other hand, everyone knows of the lackluster Gusu Lan diet. He is also overly polite and good natured, but I am uncertain whether that is his personality or due to his teachings.”

“So, we are following him because he does not eat meat and is polite? Would you care to know the number of people who meet the description? Not everyone is able to afford delicacies and spices.”

Despite voicing a sound counter-argument to his logic, he can see that one of the spiders is putting the rest of the bowls away and preparing to leave.

“As I said, there is something familiar about him. It doesn’t hurt to be careful.”

There is a thoughtful silence. “Should we make sure that he does end up meeting Sect Leader Jiang, after all?”

He hums in thought. “Maybe. But not yet. Perhaps I am jumping to rash conclusions and being overly cautious.”

Seemingly prepared, the spider in front of him nods and leaves to obey his orders.

“Should we let Jiang-guniang know?” the other spider asks.

Jiang Cheng shakes his head again. “Not yet. No need to bother a-Jie if this is not anything serious. But I do need you to contact Wei Wuxian and keep him apprised, just in case. We might need him.”

He turns his piercing glare towards her. “And no nonsense about my so-called infatuation with the man. You know that those mooncakes were laced with truth serum.”

She rolls her eyes. “There is no such thing as truth serum. The serum only acts to make people be more amenable to answering questions. It does not mean that they will necessarily be truthful.”

Jiang Cheng rolls his eyes back at her.

“Yes, either way. The fact that his cultivation burned that out without him even taking notice means that his cultivation level is exceptionally high.”

“Or that he may be tired,” adds the spider.

Jiang Cheng nods. “Yes, perhaps he didn’t notice because he was tired. However, for him to burn that out so quickly after eating so many sweets. It makes me wary. What is a cultivator like that doing in Yunmeng Jiang? And what does he need with Sect Leader Jiang?”

His spider’s face contorts into a frown.

“Be vigilant,” he commands.

--

Lan Xichen has been wandering the streets for a while.

I suppose asking a random vendor is out of questions and will only draw suspicion.

Around him, the streets are littered with half-made decorations. He cannot help but smile at the hustle and bustle around him. It has been a while since he has been able to enjoy the contentment that comes with the mundane routine of a town square.

“Young master!” calls out a vendor from his left. “Please try these! I guarantee you will not get anything like this in all of Yunmeng.”

Xichen cannot find a good reason within himself to deny the request. Perhaps this man can help me.

As he sees lines of candied fruits and stuffed sweets, his eyes widen in wonderment. When was the last time someone offered him an alignment of delicacies to try, he wonders?

As the threat with Qishan Wen roamed closer, his trips were filled with mission reports and evacuation plans. Every time he passed a vendor, it was to notice another stall missing from its position. Sometimes, people left in fear and sometimes they were killed in a crossfire. As much as they tried to evacuate people to deeper parts of Gusu, or to parts that were at a safer distance from the battles, it was never enough. Someone always got left behind because they were either too stubborn to leave or too determined to. In both cases, Xichen felt helpless.

Here, in Yunmeng, he can almost pretend that everything is right for a moment. However, his sect has taught him not to entertain delusions. It’s forbidden.

“Young master?” the vendor queries and Xichen tunes back into the conversation.  

“Which of these sweets would you recommend?” he asks, politely.

The vendor’s face lights up and it reminds Xichen of the man from the inn. Despite the ever-present frown, the man had been insistent that he eat well. It warms Xichen just thinking of the man’s kindness.

Packed with the sweets he is recommended, Xichen moves on from the stall and digs into the sweet. He takes this moment to savor the delicious explosion of delicate flavors and look around him.

Where would I be if I were Sect Leader Jiang and wanted to discourage people from approaching me? Surely, I wouldn’t be at Lotus Pier seeing as that is the most likely location anyone would find me.   

He is still pondering his next move when he runs into a child.

“Ah!” he calls out. “My apologies,” he says.

As he goes to help the child up, he feels a light tug at his robes.

Oh.

Xichen’s hand shoot out and grab the ones tugging at his robes.

“It is not polite to steal,” Xichen states as he turns to another boy who is frantically attempting to escape Xichen’s grip.

“I wasn’t stealing!” the boy shrieks.

Xichen raises an eyebrow at both boys. “No? Ah, then. My apologies. Pray tell, what were you doing tugging at my coin pouch, then?”

He pointedly raises the hand that is holding the boy’s hand. In the boy’s grip lies his coin pouch.

The boy colors with embarrassment and there is a dawning horror on boy’s face. Before Xichen can say anything, he feels the other boy, the one he previously ran into, bite Xichen's wrist that is holding onto the little thief.

It is only surprise that causes Xichen to let go. He watches the two boys disappear into the crowd and ponders whether it would be worth it to follow them.

“Let them go,” comes a firm command from besides him.

He turns to find a female approach him. If he is recalling this correctly, she is one of the wait staff from the inn.

“How does Sect Leader Jiang deal with issues such as this?” he asks, curious.

If Xichen did not known any better, he would think that he is being laughed at. Did I say something inappropriate again?

“Oh, my apologies. I remember being told not to bring him up too often in such context. Is this considered impolite? I hadn’t meant to question his authority. I am sure he is a wonderful leader,” he is quick to reassure. However, he does not think that that helps. It only makes her smile widen even more.

“Our employer is…a bit intense when it comes to Sect Leader Jiang, you see. Although his advice is correct, I will not hold it against you.”

Xichen nods, relieved. Wait.

“You still did not answer me.”

“Are you curious?” she asks, in lieu of answering.

Xichen nods.

“Why?” she queries, eyebrows furrowed. “If you only seek him out to aid you with your personal matters, why ask questions about menial things such as this? Why not ask the important questions?”

Xichen straightens in surprise. “But the man, your employer, said not to ask about him.”

She smiles. “No, he said not to ask around. I am from the inn. You won’t be asking around.”

Xichen is confused. “And why exactly would you help me with this?”

“Do you doubt my intentions?” her glare sharpens.

“No!” Xichen placates, hastily. “That is not what I meant. I am just uncertain of how this will serve you. Your employer clearly does not want to help me in this matter. Which I can understand seeing as he does not know me or of my intentions. So, why are you so willing to?”

She sighs.

“I heard you asking about which direction to go for Lotus Pier. You won’t be able to find out this way. Even if people know, they won’t tell you if they can sense that you are not from around here. Which you are not and that is obvious.”

She shrugs and then she points behind Xichen. “Lotus Pier is south from here, in that direction, if you still want to go. It is a day’s journey so I recommend going tomorrow because it will get dark soon.”

Xichen turns towards the direction she pointed. “And I am to believe that you know where Lotus Pier is when no one has been able to recall so far?” he asks.

“Do you really have a choice?” he hears from behind him.

Xichen sighs. She is right. He has spent three hours just wandering and hoping to find any clue. Because he has to be discrete, it is already proving to be a rather difficult task. He has been unable to get any information out of anyone.  

He turns back towards her to thank her for her help. However, he finds no one. It is as if she disappeared into thin air without Xichen even noticing. She is the second person to do that, first being those children.

What is in the waters of Yunmeng? He wonders not for the first time.

--

“You did what?!” Jiang Cheng bellows.

The spiders wince. “You were worried about him, so I sent him there to test him.”

“You were only supposed to go for surveillance. That does not mean interference!”

The spider shrugs. “We don’t have time to be surveilling people for days. Besides, he caught the devil twins with ease. Clearly, he is someone very competent. We can now determine how powerful the threat truly is if he survives the journey.”

Jiang Cheng pinches the bridge of his nose. Not for the last time, he wishes his mother didn’t stick him with these two.

“We don’t even know if he is a threat yet. We don’t put people in unnecessary danger. What if he ends up being someone important? Do you want us to go to war when we have so carefully cultivated our reputation of having no interest in it?!”

He knows that he might be overreacting and merely taking his frustration out on them now. There is no point to this. The man has already been gone for hours.

The spiders look suitably chastised. “We will look into this. He will be returned safely. You have our word.”

As much as Jiang Cheng would like to leave it at that, he knows he can’t.

“No, finish your assignments. You are needed here way more than anywhere else. You know that my cultivation is currently unpredictable, especially if there is a surprise attack of any sort. So, you need to be present here. I will follow him. Between us both, it should not be difficult to ensure his safety.”

Not letting the spiders protest further, Jiang Cheng picks up his sheathed sword and makes his way out.