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He felt his limbs tear apart under the onslaught of the demonic backlash from the Yin Hu Fu. The agony was nothing Wei Wuxian could ever hope to put into words but the crushing grief in his heart and the sense of utter loss and self-directed hatred was worse.

Wei Wuxian wished he hadn't been born in this world, in this life. Maybe then his sufferings could've been less devastating. Maybe he wouldn't have had to suffer at all. Maybe he could've – and he knew he was overreaching but who couldn't in their last moments? – even found happiness and love the way he had always dreamed of, to make the cold nights in Yiling feel worth it.

But even after all the pain, all the misery, Wei Wuxian had so much to be grateful for.

His childhood friends.

His martial family.

His Wen family.

His cultivation.

And even the Ghost Path that had led him to living a domestic life for a year if not more.

I won't regret you, any of you. I will never regret saving you, Lan Zhan, Qing-jie, A-Ning, A-Yuan…

He was dying, what did it matter what his last thoughts were? 

With a sad smile painting his pale lips, Wei Wuxian vowed to move on if he was able to. He couldn't bear the thought of his resentment hurting people he still cared for.

Thank you and I am sorry, I hope you all have fulfilling lives now. Goodbye.

He was so sure he was dead, that he wouldn't make it into the reincarnation cycle after all his misdeeds. So, he was massively surprised when he was shaken awake on a street he didn't recognize.

“Gongzi, are you alright?”

He frowned as he sat up, hands patting all over his body because he was so sure it should've been ripped into a hundred pieces by now. The blue-clad man – cultivator, his mind rang out – crouching beside him seemed to smile in relief and Wei Wuxian squinted, trying to remember which sect’s uniform all the blues and silver could be. No name came to him and he gave up, flopping to lay back down and wincing as his head thunked against the hard, unforgiving ground.

No injuries, in fact, he felt better than he had before Lotus Pier fell. He didn't recognize the robes of a sect he should've been able to recognize and the street looked unfamiliar.

Great. It was just like his memory to fail him when he needed it most.

His eyes scanned around the street and landed on an opening, the storefront advertising something called ‘wontons’. Had his memory really failed him? Or had he gotten into some Wei Ying brand of trouble again?

“Gongzi, are you alright? Why are you laying on the ground? Sit up. Here, have some water.” The man trampled all over his thoughts with his fussing and Wei Wuxian let the words –not full of hate or demands for once– wash over him as he took the offered waterskin and drank deeply.

“Thank you, Daozhang.” He smiled, handing the waterskin back and the burly cultivator beamed at Wei Ying. His instincts told him he should trust the man and they had rarely led him astray. “I am not quite sure… maybe I hit my head? Could be possible. I’ve been called clumsy a hundred times in my life. Nothing else would explain how I don't remember anything at all.”

The man frowned for a moment before smiling again.

“That's alright. I can take you to Sisheng Peak to recover. Tanlang may be able to help with any medical concerns and it’d be good for you to be in a safe place with winter so close by.” He stood up and offered a hand to Wei Wuxian. 

Is this a trick? Why would a stranger be nice to him? His hand subconsciously reached his belt and he froze as his hand wrapped around the surprisingly-present Chenqing. 

At least he won't be fully defenseless now. He took a moment to mourn his Suibian before contemplating what step to take next. In ordinary circumstances, he wouldn't have let anyone touch him in a way that could ascertain his lack of golden core, but he was alive somehow and he recognized nothing. He had nothing to lose.

“I didn't get your name, Daozhang,” Wei Wuxian asked, grasping the hand and letting himself be pulled up. The man let out an embarrassed snort.

“I am Xue Zhengyong, what may I call you?”

“Wei Ying, courtesy Wuxian. It's nice to meet you, Xue-gongzi.”

“Wife, look what I brought back!” Xue Zhengyong yelled, dragging Wei Wuxian’s stumbling self into a large home. A middle-aged woman with a kind face walked out of an adjoining room. The smile fell off her face as she appraised him head to toe in a way that only disappointed mothers do. “Wei Wuxian, this is my wife. Wife, meet our newest disciple!”

“Heavens! You’re all skin and bones. Children these days don't take care of themselves.” Was how the Madam welcomed him into the sect and her home before grasping his sleeve and tugging him in the direction he assumed the kitchen was.

“Don't kill him! I’ll be back later!” Xue Zhengyong called before leaving and Wei Wuxian was left at Xue-Furen’s mercy.

“Xue-Furen, you don't have to.” Wei Wuxian protested, but let himself be pushed in front of a table.

“Nonsense! And call me Wang-Furen. I’ll have you in shape and glowing in no time!”

And so Wei Wuxian had the first filling meal in almost two years with Madam Wang fussing around and filling his bowl and cup again. 

The warmth her demeanor exuded combined with the delicious stew she had plied him with had the tension draining out of him. He yawned and tucked his hands in his arms, intending to close his eyes for a moment and then he was out like a light, Madam Wang’s disapproving words soothing him into a deep sleep.

And when he was shaken awake, – when did he get in a bed? – he felt refreshed and healthier than he ever remembered being.

“This is indeed very strange. I sense no medical hindrances that could be suppressing your memory. Moreover, your meridians and spiritual pathways are clear, as if you were a cultivator. Are you sure you aren't one?” Tanlang-Qianbei frowned and Wei Wuxian’s hand reached for Chenqing instinctively. Surprisingly, his dizi had been transported to wherever he was, which was a relief. Resentment and ghosts existed in every realm after all.

“I have no golden core, as you can see. How can one become a cultivator without that?” Wei Wuxian feigned ignorance, but the Tanlang Elder didn't seem to be buying it as he pursed his lips.

“Be that as it may, you have immense potential, so I believe you may be able to cultivate a new one.” Wei Wuxian’s breath hitched in his throat. He could cultivate a new core? But Wen Qing said-

“If you need guidance, I will advise that you request to become a Sisheng Peak disciple. We have many skilled cultivators here who will bring you up to speed in a few years… despite your advanced age.” His tone dripped with condescension and Wei Wuxian snatched his wrist back with a glare.

“I am only twenty-two!”

“My apologies,” his tone was sardonic and utterly unapologetic. Wei Wuxian huffed, bowed hastily and shuffled outside where Xue Zhengyong waited for him.

“So?” 

“This Wei Wuxian asks Sect Leader to grant him permission to learn cultivation at Sisheng Peak.” He fell forward into a deep bow and Xue Zhengyong hurriedly pulled him to stand straight.

“Of course! Come now. Let’s proceed to the first part of your discipleship right away.” He began walking in the direction of who-knows-what and Wei Wuxian quietly fell into step with him. He watched him pluck a Haitang blossom out of his pocket, speak something to it before the flower disintegrated. Interesting.

Wei Wuxian tried not to openly gape as they passed by numerous bamboo groves and ponds. This place looked like a good blend of Cloud Recesses and Yunmeng. By the time they reached a clearing, Wei Wuxian’s head was spinning with the amount of made-up landmarks he had tried to remember along with the explanations the sect leader had given him about each place they passed.

“Esteemed Elders. Thank you for coming here on such short notice. This is Wei Wuxian, a new disciple. He may be older than the age we tend to accept them but Tanlang has vouched for his prodigious skill-”

“I did no such thing!”

“- and how he can cultivate a golden core despite his late beginnings. So I have asked you all here so he may choose which one of you he wants to learn under.” Xue Zhengyong finished before turning to address Wei Wuxian directly. “At Sisheng Peak, disciples choose the masters they would prefer to learn under and if that master accepts them, it's all good. Otherwise, the disciple must try to convince the master to teach them which either ends in the disciple wearing them down or letting go and studying under someone else.”

Wei Wuxian nodded, looking towards the gathered Elders. They all looked wise, he could sense their brimming spiritual energies yet his eyes went to the figure under the Haiting tree. He was taller than Wei Wuxian by the looks of it and had an ethereal air about him. Like Lan Zhan. he thought wistfully before dismissing that line of thinking. The Elder was fiddling with what looked like a metal glove on their hand and Wei Wuxian’s eyes zeroed in on the tools he held in the other hand.

An inventor, he was an inventor.

Wei Wuxian had always loved tinkering and creating things, but he had never met a cultivator who would share his interests before. And so his mind was made up.

“Him, I would like to learn from Inventor-Qianbei.” It felt ridiculous giving such a beautiful man such a childish nickname, but he didn’t know his name as the man hadn’t introduced himself.

“Yuheng, looks like you have a disciple!” The sect leader bellowed, delight shining in his eyes as the Yuheng Elder looked at them, confusion marring his pretty face.

“I am not an easy man to get along with and I am an even stricter Shizun. Are you sure you would like to learn under me?” Yuheng Elder asked, eyes fixed on his guqin, as Wei Wuxian sat down in front of him.

“Why not? And haven't you heard already? I am unconventional. So, no need to be surprised, I chose you for a ridiculous reason.”

“What reason?” The Elder’s face was a mask of indifference, but Wei Wuxian had practically grown up learning to read emotionless faces. The Elder was curious. He hid that flicker of emotion by getting up and walking over to a messy shelf.

“I want to take a closer look at that metal glove and maybe test it out if you allow me to.” He responded with a grin and the Elder stumbled a little before righting himself.

“It's called a mechanical glove and it's not ready yet.” He huffed but Wei Wuxian could see pride reflected in his eyes at seeing his invention being acknowledged. That sealed the deal for him.

“I would like to help with that if Shizun allows me to.” He let his lower lip jut out into a pout his Shijie used to find irresistible and the Elder turned on his heel.

“Ridiculous.”

Wei Wuxian grinned, eyes following his every move as he came back to sit in front of his guqin. He closed his eyes as the Elder began playing, memories of long-passed moments slinking along in his mind.

“You also remind me of someone I knew years ago.” The melody stilled, the overall effect was jarring and Wei Wuxian opened his eyes to see the Yuheng Elder frown.

“I do?”

“Uh-huh! He was as pretty as you and played the guqin too. A rule follower though, so he held me at swordpoint when we first met because I was sneaking in alcohol,” Wei Wuxian grinned and his Shizun tilted his head, looking like an adorably curious cat.

“At Sisheng Peak many of us follow different cultivation paths. So, very few of us have to abstain. I usually don't drink because I have better things to do, but you don't have to sneak it around here.”

“This disciple thanks Shizun for the information, but as this one has no money to his name he can't buy alcohol even if he wanted to.” Wei Wuxian shrugged , the casual move at odds with his overly-formal tone.

“You’ll get a monthly allowance here, but try not to waste it.” Wei Wuxian nodded, a smile lighting up his face.

“We do have many rules here, though. You’ll be punished if you don't follow them. I’ll have you transcribe them a few times so you can memorize them.” Chu Wanning got up again, this time searching for the accursed rule books no doubt and Wei Wuxian groaned miserably.

His Shizun pretended he didn't hear or see the misery pouring off his person as he placed a thick book in his hands.

His first xun at Sisheng Peak was full of introductions and confusing moments, making Wei Wuxian feel out of his element in a way he rarely ever did. But learning about his new home for however long he was here was a good way to distract his racing thoughts.

He met – and befriended, he hoped – the sect heir, Xue Meng and his friend Shi Mei, the latter was surprisingly a lot easier to get along with. Xue Meng refused to call him Shixiong despite his father’s pestering, going as far as challenging Wei Wuxian to a spar to prove that Xue Meng would be the Shixiong instead. It was over before it began, Wei Wuxian pinning the younger one with his elbow twisted back until Xue Meng gritted out a Shixiong, I give. It was unfair, Wei Wuxian was a war veteran and a head disciple before so he should’ve felt terrible about pressing someone younger into the grass. The thought of reclaiming the title of Shixiong after so long brought his competitive streak back to life though and Wei Wuxian was helpless to resist its call.

He sat with the disciples, copying all sorts of books his newly-appointed Shizun handed him, studying and memorizing the text diligently and not letting Xue Meng’s snarky retorts stop him from asking what were dubbed ‘stupid questions’.

His sect uniform was handed to him and Wei Wuxian took off his tattered black robes with a wistful sigh, marking the official beginning of his discipleship. It was hard, re-learning everything, trying not to give himself away and learning to trust again, but in a month he was feeling a lot lighter and comfortable in his new home.

He missed A-Yuan, he thought of Jiang Cheng and he reminisced about Lan Zhan but as days passed, he stopped mourning them less and less, choosing to look back at the times he shared with them fondly instead. And he had his Shizun and shidi to thank for his newly invigorated heart.

And so, for the first time in years, Wei Wuxian dared to dream again.

“As you can see, I love my wife more than she loves me,” the sect leader sighed, a hand coming to rest on his forehead and Wei Wuxian suppressed a chuckle.

“Indeed, it's a horrible tragedy but at least she’s all yours now.” He nodded solemnly.

“I’ll let you in on a secret. I stole her away from that moving turtle she called home, whisked her away to live on my mountain where none but me would have her so wholly and irrevocably.” Moving turtle? Was there a Xuanwu variant here too?

Before Wei Wuxian could express his surprise the way Xue Zhengyong wanted, Madam Wang was marching in with a scowl that looked out of place on her youthful face. “What are you lying about now?”

“Dad was telling the story of how he stole you away again.” Xue Meng answered, ignoring his father’s mock outrage.

“Heavens! Behave yourself around the kids,” she sighed, placing a bowl of medicine in front of Wei Wuxian with a glare that promised even worse medicine if he  didn't take it. He gulped, smiling back brightly, as if the thought of disposing off the bitter concoction never occurred to him. Madam Wang had manipulated him into staying in her spare bedroom and letting her dote on him and before Wei Wuxian knew it, he was part of a family again.

He wondered if this was a dream or maybe this was heaven but the bitter after-taste of the strengthening medicine lingering on his tongue reminded him this was real. He was safe and he was cared for. It had been so long, he had almost forgotten what it was like to be fussed over.

“Here, have some more soup.” Xue Meng nudged the pot in front of him as Xue Zhengyong moved to pour tea for his wife.

He had forgotten… but maybe he could relearn what it felt like with the Xue family.

With a nod of gratitude, Wei Wuxian filled his bowl again as the sect leader started another tale of his bravery, this one more outrageous than his story of sweeping Madam Wang off her feet.

“What are you smiling about?” Xue Meng glared and Wei Wuxian raised an expectant brow. With a sigh of someone suffering more than anyone had any right to, Xue Meng whispered “Shixiong.”

Wei Wuxian’s grin turned smug, the expression coming easier and easier every day.

Yes, he could learn to be loved again and he would do his best to open his heart to them just as they had so easily done for him.

“Since you have settled in well already, it's time to officially begin your training.” The Yuheng Elder said, handing him a sword. Wei Wuxian caught it easily, his senses honed from almost a decade of martial arts practice. Surprisingly the sword didn't feel heavy in his grip and he experimentally moved it, slashing and thrusting. Huh?

“Because you don't have a golden core and because every cultivator gets their holy weapon later, we train with simple swords, ones even commoners can use. They aren't as powerful but they get the job done.” He nodded and Wei Wuxian smiled, relieved. He had always loved sword fighting and losing that part of him had been a big blow to his confidence. “I believe your stance and posture suggest you have had at least some martial arts training, so I want to start by seeing what you can do and go from there.”

Wei Wuxian nodded and looked down at the nondescript sword in his hands. The hilt was silver and the etchings were nothing like his Suibian. He had gotten so used to his sword, it felt awkward holding a different blade. He closed his eyes, pictured Suibian in his hand. In his mind’s eye, he was in Cloud Recesses, ready to show off his sword forms to impress Lan Zhan with Jiang Cheng rolling his eyes on the sidelines. The image caused a smile to bloom on his lips.

And then he began.

First form and his body felt a little stiff from years of not practicing his forms. He kept at it, recalling his days as Shixiong and using those images to guide his movements. With fluidity he had forgotten he was capable of, he was moving onto second form and then third. The Jiang swordplay was based on agility and quick attacks, its basis being complicated footwork and lightness of feet. And Wei Wuxian had plenty of experience sneaking around and dodging attacks, wielding Chenqing like a sword. Once he got in the move, he was unstoppable.

He opened his eyes when he had run through all the forms twice, the movements became smoother and quicker the more he practiced and it made a warmth bloom in his heart he hadn't realized he had been missing when he had given up on Suibian for Jiang Cheng’s sake. Slowly, he let the scene in his mind dissipate and then his eyes opened, squinting against the sudden brightness of the day.

“That was better than I expected. Your movements did begin a little stiff, most likely because you haven't practised them in years and you almost lost your balance twice which you made up for with your incredible agility.” His Shizun noted, but his eyes shone with something rare. Something that looked like approval if Wei Wuxian read them right. “But your forms were good and your second run through them was very promising. If you keep practicing and sparring with other disciples, I know you can best anyone here.” That definitely sounded like pride.

He bit his lip to suppress a sob. How long had it been when someone was genuinely proud of him?

“This disciple thanks Shizun.” He bowed low, blinking away the wetness in his eyes.

“No need,” Chu Wanning said, gripping his arms and hauling him to stand straight. “Are there any other weapons you learned using?”

“No, but I’ve always been interested in scimitar and war fans,” he responded earnestly. He had buried those dreams when the Wens had attacked.

“Mn, sounds good. For the next few weeks you’ll spend a shichen practicing sword forms in the bamboo grove which I will oversee, then half a shichen sparring with various weapon wielders on Sisheng Peak. When I think you’re proficient enough, we will spar together and your progress then will define how soon I can begin taking you on assignments.” Chu Wanning tilted his head, as if asking if he understood and Wei Wuxian nodded, smiling brightly.

He was glad he was being taken seriously and that Chu Wanning clearly wanted him to get better. So selfless, he thought. His Shizun was the best. He had made the right choice.

“Now let's go back to the Red Lotus Pavilion, you have some copying to do.” He began walking away and Wei Wuxian groaned, as was expected of anyone going to Chu Wanning’s place, before falling into step with the taller man.

“Shizun, will you really spar with me?” He asked, excitement shining in his eyes at the prospect of facing the Yuheng Elder as an opponent to gauge his strength.

“That's a few months in the future, Wei Ying. Concentrate on getting better for now.”

“Shizun, what am I copying today?”

“Whatever I want you to copy. The reason I am doing this is because I’ve had enough of your horrible calligraphy. It gives me headaches. So, now I’ll make sure you can write as well and as pleasingly as any gentleman ought to,” Chu Wanning responded, waving his hand to bring down the barriers surrounding his residence and Wei Wuxian followed behind, this time, groaning for real.

“You have bested everyone on Sisheng Peak, even two of the Elders so I believe you’re ready,” His Shizun spoke evenly but Wei Wuxian grinned widely. Chu Wanning seemed to be in a good mood and that good mood seemed very much because of how quickly he had mastered his own and Sisheng Peak’s sword forms.

“Are we going to spar in the bamboo grove?” Chu Wanning nodded and Wei Wuxian skipped along behind him. 

“The sect leader and the other Elders will be in attendance too and will let you know what mistakes you’ve made and how you could fix them.” Shizun’s voice was soft like usual. Wei Wuxian always found it soothing and it was always luck on his part that he hadn’t fallen asleep listening to him teaching him yet.

They reached the bamboo grove he had gotten intimately acquainted with over the past two months and sure enough, the Elders were waiting, wearing various expressions of boredom and impatience. Tanlang-Zhanglao looked to be the closest to throwing a tantrum, as always. Despite his bad temper, Wei Wuxian had grown fond of him too. He reminds me of Qing-jie.

Chu Wanning walked ahead and then turned to face him and Wei Wuxian unsheathed the practice sword that had been assigned to him until he got his own holy weapon. I wonder what sort of weapon Shizun has, it must be beautiful and devastatingly powerful like him, he thought. He had heard of the infamous Tianwen, but never had the pleasure of seeing it before.

His eyes scanned over every inch of his Shizun, waiting for him to summon his weapon when his eyes caught sight of his fingers. The glowed softly and then a shape manifested in his arms, glowing the same soft golden as his fingertips once had. Within moments he was holding a golden willow vine and Wei Wuxian had to gasp at the sheer power radiating through it.

So this was Tianwen. He swallowed, the sight of the whip making him reluctant to draw his own sword. His reluctance was noticed by his Shizun who moved into Sisheng Peak’s opening stance.

Time slowed down as Wei Wuxian watched the elegant man swing his whip in circles before lashing over towards him. The speed of the whip was faster than he had anticipated, faster than Zidian. As it got longer and longer, Wei Wuxian watched helplessly as it extended towards him, glowing with calamitous power.

His eyes glossed over, the fear and instinct guiding him into turning around and falling to his knees. His hands fisted his robes as he awaited punishment, eyes scrunched tight waiting for the pain to bloom. There was a sound of a whip hitting something, followed by a thud and gasps rang out around him. The skin on his back felt fine and he opened his eyes, wondering if Jiang Cheng had managed to stop his mother somehow.

Something soft touched his cheek, wiping under his eye and he realized tears were streaming down his cheeks as his mind screamed Danger! Pain! I am so scared it hurts! Over and over again.

“Shhh, Wei Ying, it's alright. I didn't know, none of us did.” The voice was soft. Familiar but somehow out of place in the ancestral hall. The hands were gentle as they cradled his face before he was pressed against something firm but soft. He felt thumping under his cheek and it took him an embarrassingly long time to realize it was someone’s heartbeat. Someone was holding him to their chest. He sucked in a deep breath, gasping softly as a subtle, flowery scent invaded his senses, making him whine softly.

“Shh, Shizun is sorry. Shizun will make it better, Wei Ying. Just breathe.” The voice was so unbearably gentle, so soothing that he felt his breathing calm down. Awareness returned to him in increments and he opened his eyes, finally seeing what was really there instead of phantom memories.

He was cradled against the soft white robes only his Shizun ever wore, a few strands of his glossy hair were tickling his cheeks as a large hand ran across his head and down his back. With an embarrassed squeak, Wei Wuxian scooted back, out of Chu Wanning’s arms and onto the ground.

“I- Shizun I-” His words were an endless stutter of meaninglessness, the embarrassment burning his insides combined with the leftover traces of terror and tension in his shoulders made it even more difficult to speak. 

“Shizun… this one apologizes for being so incompetent. This one has let his Shizun down and deserves punishment,” he whispered brokenly, lips wobbling as the realization he had disappointed his teacher as well as all the Elders on Sisheng Peak sunk in.

He buried his face in his hands and didn't bat away at the arms that wrapped around him and pulled him to his feet. Numbly, he let himself be guided somewhere and only the sweet scent of red lotuses told him he was entering his Shizun’s home.

“Shizun-” What could he say now? Nothing could make this better. Not only had he been weak, he had displayed that weakness in front of everyone and humiliated his Shizun. If Chu Wanning didn't give up on him now, he would be surprised.

“Wei Ying, it's fine. Why didn't you tell us? I would never have fought you with Tianwen if I had known.” Chu Wanning’s voice was soft with remorse. A bowl of cool water was extending towards him and he took it, downing it in two gulps. The water helped soothe his throat and he blinked, thoughts clearing.

Chu Wanning was crouched in front of him, his eyes full of sorrow and Wei Wuxian hated being the reason he felt sad. He never wanted to see the beautiful man sad, would destroy the world if it meant he never had to see that expression mar his face again.

“Shizun, it wasn't your fault.” He simply said, a hand reaching out to touch Chu Wanning’s where it was crushing his white robes.

“How is it not my fault? A Shizun ought to know what made his disciple upset so he could work on helping them get over it. I have failed you, Wei Ying.” He looked so miserable and Wei Wuxian was helpless. He had always been soft for people who looked so sad and helpless. It was what got him into endless troubles in the past but he didn’t care.

Slowly, he reached out towards Chu Wanning and when the man didn't pull away, he let his arms wrap around his shoulders and drew their bodies together. Chu Wanning was stiff in his arms before he breathed softly, head coming to rest on his shoulder.

“It was both of our faults, then. You had to know about this, but how could you have known without me telling you, Shizun? But now that I think of it, it makes sense. I’ve heard you whip people with Tianwen as punishment now and again and it wouldn't have been possible with a sword.” He remarked and Chu Wanning shuddered against him, hands coming to wrap around him tightly.

“I don't want to scare you. I am supposed to protect you. How can I do that if you’re terrified of me, of relying on me?”

“I am sorry. It's not your fault. When I was younger, my martial aunt used to whip me with her spiritual whip for every minor inconvenience. She didn't like me and would use any excuse to have me kneel in the ancestral hall and rip my back to shreds. Even though she’s been dead for years, I am still terrified of whips. It's idiotic. How will I become a good fighter if the sight of a whip sends me reeling like that?” Wei Wuxian laughed wryly.

“I guess… we both have a lot to learn. But maybe, maybe it's possible to help you get over your fear,” his Shizun spoke softly before pulling back and looking into his eyes. “I’ll have to ask Wang-Furen and Tanlang-Zhanglao. There had to have been occurrences of people sustaining mental wounds from traumatic pasts apart from you. I think if we work hard enough, we may be able to help you fight despite your fear instead of being frozen in place.” And then Chu Wanning’s eyes were glossing over in that way they only did when a particularly good invention had taken root in his mind.

Wei Wuxian huffed out a soft laugh, his heart filling with warmth. His Shizun was adorable, so much like a child sometimes that it was impossibly endearing.

“Does that mean you’ll continue teaching me?” He asked softly and the man’s expression twisted into a scowl so upset he was, that Wei Wuxian couldn't help but snort.

“Do you really think I’ll work together with Tanlang-Zhanglao of all people if I was going to get rid of you?”

“Shizun. Shizun, wait! This one apologizes,” Wei Wuxian giggled, trying to grab Chu Wanning as he untangled himself from his arms and walked away with an irritated huff. 

“Idiot.” The Yuheng Elder mutterred, hurrying away into his bedroom and Wei Wuxian let an affectionate smile bloom on his lips.

He was right. His Shizun was the best. How many would work with someone they disliked for his sake?

Heart full of happiness and something he couldn't put a name to, Wei Wuxian got up and began tidying up the messy room, a skip in his step.

“Better than I expected,” the Elder spoke and Wei Wuxian grinned, proud of tiring his Shizun into letting a semi-compliment slip. “You may have a day off tomorrow to celebrate condensing your qi. The day after, we’ll begin training a lot more rigorously so you can develop a golden core fast.”

“Yes, Shizun!” He crowed, jumping up and hissing when his knees hit the sturdy low table in front of him. Oh. He had forgotten it was right there. Chu Wanning stared impassively, already used to Wei Wuxian’s idiocy biting him in the ass. Biting back a curse, Wei Wuxian flexed his legs before moving to Chu Wanning’s messy shelves.

“What are you up to now?”

“Shizun, I was wondering if I could borrow some books from your collection.” His eyes widened, lip jutting out and Chu Wanning blinked. Wei Wuxian knew he had won as the Elder looked over his shoulder.

“Mn. Let yourself out after you’re done. And if my books even have a crease, you’ll be copying my entire collection.” And then the Elder was walking into his bedroom and Wei Wuxian got to work, searching for all volumes of the Chronicling journals. Shi Mei had told him how all history was automatically recorded in them and since Wei Wuxian had been there for three months and showed no signs of returning to his world, he may as well learn everything about this one to make his stay more comfortable. Stop feeling like the outsider he was and all.

By the time he had collected ten heavy books, it was dark and the sounds that signified his Shizun tweaking with his inventions had long been silent. 

I wonder what Shizun’s bedroom looks like. Is it as pristine as he looks? Or as messy as his shelves? And with that thought, Wei Wuxian put down his reading material. As a cultivator, walking soundlessly was one of the first things he had learned, so he found himself in his Shizun’s private quarters unheeded.

The first thing he noticed was how bad the mess was compared to the receiving room. The ground was littered with inventions at various stages of completion, messy notes, pristine calligraphy, open books, and who knows what else. But what had his mouth dropping open in horror was how Chu Wanning’s bed was more like a resting place of sharp objects than a human, covered as it was with blades and weapons of all shapes and sizes. His Shizun was curled in a small, empty area on the bed, head pillowed on his arms and hair flung over the sharp point of a scimitar.

Despite the mess, Chu Wanning looked at peace, the ever-present disapproving frown absent from his brows, lips parted and- was that saliva? Wei Wuxian felt a smile twitch on the corner of his lips. When awake, Chu Wanning was perfection incarnate, not a hair out of place. Who knew that jade-like appearance hid behind an adorable man who couldn't clean his room to save a life?

He looks so free, so unburdened, so young, Wei Wuxian thought before realizing he was that young. Chu Wanning was only four years his senior after all and he had started accepting that he himself had been too young and shouldn't have been saddled with the burdens he used to bear as a child. He should always look like this, a traitorous voice in his mind whispered and he decided to look closer on how he could take some duties off his Shizun’s roster tomorrow.

As adorable as the sight was and as used to the cramped sleeping position as Chu Wanning looked, Wei Wuxian knew it had to be uncomfortable and lead to unending aches and a fitful sleep. He sighed softly, abandoning his plans of reading in bed, and started picking things up, letting his mind wander to the compass he hadn’t finished yet.

He had no idea how long it took but by the time the floor had walking space and all things were sorted in some messy order that didn't disrupt much of Chu Wanning’s chaotic system – hopefully –, the compass was complete in his mind. He had even come up with some future modifications he hadn't thought of before which he resolved to test later.

Feeling productive yet tired, Wei Wuxian moved to the bed, his main purpose of cleaning the room up. He slowly picked all the weapons and knick-knacks, slowing his movements so nothing crashed into another and made a sound to disturb his Shizun. 

He needs sleep after putting up with everything I throw at him.

It didn't take longer than an incense stick for him to have neatly put all the sharp things in places they wouldn't injure anyone, but still in plain sight so as not to trouble his teacher further. Wei Wuxian stepped back, panting softly, a hand coming to wipe the sweat off his forehead as he took a moment to recover while basking in the brilliant sight of Chu Wanning sleeping, expression soft and so approachable. If he wore that expression more often when awake, Wei Wuxian knew he’d be swarmed with discipleship requests and socialising attempts. Maybe that's why he kept that haughty, unapproachable facade up? He was awkward and didn't want to make small talk? Or maybe he was evading matchmaking attempts?

Who knows? Despite his expertise in reading people who didn't wish to appear transparent and approachable, Chu Wanning remained an enigma to Wei Wuxian himself too.

He’s so beautiful it hurts to stare so openly. It feels wrong…like this sight isn't for mortal eyes, Wei Wuxian thought, his finger twitching with the insane desire to smoothen his robes, to take off the uncomfortable-looking guan, to card his fingers through his now-tangled-

Where did that come from? He wondered as his cheeks warmed. Maybe he was coming down with something? It was probably very late and this was his body’s way of telling him to get some rest? Who cares He could oversleep tomorrow as the first celebratory action.

When his fingers itched with the desire to touch something soft – he had no idea what soft thing his fingers wanted to be petting but Wei Wuxian had an inkling he shouldn't dig too deep or he’d have regrets – he took it as a sign to finish the last part of his self-assigned task.

He moved on shaky legs to stand beside the bed and wrung his hands for what felt like an uncomfortably long while before deciding to stop dawdling. The first contact between his fingers and Chu Wanning’s body left a buzz running through his fingertips and extending into his entire body. Suppressing a shudder – because nights got cold…on peaks…which Sisheng Peak was, it was clearly in the name – Wei Wuxian slowly gathered Chu Wanning in his arms, moving over to place him in the centre of the now-comfortable looking bed. He made sure to gather his hair to the side and sprawl them to the pillow beside his head, pulling away before his brain latched onto the fact he had been leaning over Chu Wanning. Carefully, Wei Wuxian arranged his limbs in a position that looked comfortable enough, trying not to latch onto the fact his fingers had touched Chu Wanning’s.

Oh hell! I touched Shizun’s fingers… I touched his naked fingers and they’re soft… He breathed deeply, willing his suddenly-racing heart to calm down. In and out. Once, twice, and then a third time before moving about until he found a fluffy blanket.

He put it all over Chu Wanning, leaving his feet and head uncovered.

What if his feet get cold? He may catch a fever and it’d be my fault. The thought had him snapping into action and settling the cover over his Shizun’s feet.

What if this isn't enough? What if it rains randomly? Those were valid concerns, rains were unpredictable in Sisheng Peak’s range and his Yunmeng-raised rain senses had diminished in effectiveness over the years he spent further from Lotus Pier.

With those thoughts swirling in his mind, Wei Wuxian picked a few talisman papers. Shizun, is it stealing if I am using it on you? If so, this disciple apologises. And with that, he was biting his index finger and sketching a basic warming talisman. But this talisman remains effective for a shichen only, he frowned before he decided to add a few additional strokes to stabilise the effect and spread it over four shichen.

As risk-loving as he was, Wei Wuxian wouldn't experiment on his Shizun because the chances of talisman backfiring were less but not non-existent. So he placed the talisman on his chest, wondering if dying because he used a wrong stroke would disappoint his Shizun.

Probably not because this was a talisman he hadn't seen in this world. And then Wei Wuxian sat down to meditate, careful not to move too much in case his clothes rustling would disturb the Elder’s well-deserved rest. Come to think of it, he hasn't so much as batted a lash even when I moved him.

With a shake of his head, he dispelled that thought and began drawing spiritual energy from his surroundings, the only sounds accompanying him were the soft ripples of the lotus lake and the rare whistle of the wind.

An incense stick later he had made sure that the talisman presented no danger to anyone and worked better than he would’ve expected. He borrowed a few more talisman paper, bit his finger again, and carefully replicated his new talisman on four papers. He placed two on the inside of the blanket. One on the pillow and one on the outer side.

With his job done, Wei Wuxian smiled proudly and made his way out of the room. He had overstayed his welcome by a lot…considering he wasn't even invited in the first place.

He stumbled over a stray book, catching himself on the shelf at the last moment, wincing as the overloaded wood groaned under the added weight.

Alright so going back is a bad idea. I am in no position to walk so far with how heavy my body feels and if I make it there, I may disturb Madam Wang’s sleep… With a dismayed sigh and a mental slap to his head, Wei Wuxian vowed to finish his studies and training a shichen before so he had ample time to clean everything up and get a good night’s sleep.

He kneeled in front of the low table Chu Wanning had provided him for copying the rules, and neatly stacked all of his equipment on the floor beside it. When he was satisfied, he took off his outer robe and folded it, placing it on the table to make it a smidge more comfortable. That done, he folded his arms over the robe, rested his head against them, and drifted off, the bone-deep exhaustion and gentle sounds of the lake lulling him into a deep sleep.

At some point in the night, a warm robe was placed over him but he was too far gone to notice that or the affectionate smile on his Shizun’s face.

“Dummy,” Chu Wanning whispered before moving back to his far too spacious bed.

”Shizun, I think I have completed the first draft of my compass, can you take a look at it?” Wei Wuxian vibrated beside his low table, the excitement over this new achievement making him unable to sit still.

“I thought you were supposed to be transcribing History of the Holy Weapons ?” He raised a questioning brow but sat down in front of Wei Wuxian’s table and extended a hand. Wei Wuxian grinned, knowing despite his strict act Chu Wanning was helpless in the face of inventions. With a squeal of delight in his mind at avoiding punishment yet again, Wei Wuxian offered him the papers scribbled with descriptions and designs.

Chu Wanning’s brows furrowed as he focused all his attention on the papers, slowly going through words and diagrams. It took him a while and Wei Wuxian continued to fidget impatiently before the papers were placed in a neat stack on the table again.

“So this compass will sense resentful energy, right? I’ve read your notes and am curious how you’re going to make it do that. It's the first step of its function yet you just glossed over it and didn’t focus on the mechanics of the most important part.” He steepled his fingers and rested his chin on them and Wei Wuxian smiled sheepishly.

“I only had a vague working theory about it but that would require me to explain a different talisman I once created.”

“Oh? Go on.” Chu Wanning’s eyes glowed with curiosity and Wei Wuxian looked away before he could go breathless at the sight of them like he had been doing for a few days.

“The talisman detects the existence of golden cores in an area. I had made it so I couldn't be ambushed by cultivators from different clans who bear ill intentions. For that, the talisman would flash a number of times to indicate how many golden cores were around two li away from me. When in a qiankun sleeve, it’d send a pulse of warmth as a warning and then I’d take it out and check. One of the radicals I used on it was for detection and by feeding it a stream of qi, I had the talisman recognize the essence of a golden core.” He wrung his hands nervously as Chu Wanning appeared deep in thought.

“So then you reversed the detection radical for this compass which enabled it to detect the opposite of the spiritual energy fed to it, which happens to be resentful energy.” He deduced and Wei Wuxian nodded. “Seems like a solid idea but what if a person’s spiritual energy is tainted with resentment? Wouldn't the compass get confused and seek out resentful spiritual energy users instead?” 

“And that's why I needed your help. You created the Holy Night Guardian to sense and then fight resentful creatures, right?” Chu Wanning nodded. “I wanted to know what runes and engravings you carved in it to make it detect other resentful beings so accurately. I also need to see the initial models so I can make the compass work on the surrounding’s qi rather than its users to allow commoners to use it as well.”

At that Chu Wanning smiled, waved a hand and summoned his notes about his infamous invention. Wei Wuxian looked at the treasure trove of information available in those neatly written papers and didn’t know which one to scan over first. Should he dive into what he needs first or read over the entire thing in order?

“Take them home and study them for as long as you need. I’ll also update Lotus Pavilion’s barrier wards to give you access to my workshop so you can use whatever material you need at any time.” Wei Wuxian’s face lit up with a smile and Chu Wanning’s ears flushed adorably. “In exchange for copies of the core detection talisman… and permission to tweak it to sense malicious cultivators.”

“Of course! Can I borrow some talisman paper and cinnabar?” Wei Wuxian asked, vibrating in excitement again.

“Do you even need to ask?” Chu Wanning’s eyes did that little flutter that told Wei Wuxian he had just stopped himself from rolling them. Because he was elegant and cultured like that. It made Wei Wuxian want to tease him until he gave up all dignity and rolled his eyes at him but because he was a good disciple, he didn't try anything that might piss his Shizun off into kicking him off his responsibility list.

“Dummy.” Chu Wanning mumbled softly but Wei Wuxian picked up at it and widened his eyes in mock offence.

“How mean, Shizun! Careful now or I’ll learn to be mean to people and tell them you taught me.”

“Ridiculous.” The Yuheng Elder spat before handing him a sheaf of talisman paper.

“Shizun’s the best!” Wei Wuxian crowed and suppressed a giggle as Chu Wanning glared at him. The full effect of that icy expression was lost thanks to his Shizun’s pinkening cheeks.

“Finish up here fast and then we can begin working with Tianwen.” Wei Wuxian froze at the mention of the legendary whip. Chu Wanning most likely noticed because Wei Wuxian felt a soft touch on the hand that had been gripping a brush and he relaxed. This was his Shizun. He would never harm Wei Wuxian.

“I have talked to Tanlang-Zhanglao and Wang-Furen and we have found records of similar events happening in response to many different things. The most effective method to get over such fears is to learn that your fear is not stronger than you,” Chu Wanning spoke, softening his voice and Wei Wuxian sighed before nodding in understanding. It made a lot of sense. Many cultivators start out terrified of corpses and yao but the more they realize that they’re stronger than them, the more powerful they get.

“So how will this work?” Wei Wuxian asked, the curiosity rearing its head again now that he knew he wasn't in any danger.

“Simple, I’ll order Tianwen to never hurt you and imbue my command with the full power of my core. That will engrave it deep into the whip’s spiritual essence and will render it unable to harm you. Then I’ll begin teaching you how to use it because there is no better way to get over the fear of a weapon than by realizing you can have it follow your commands.” 

Wei Wuxian felt heat climb over his neck and onto his cheeks as his mouth dropped open. Did Shizun not know what making someone else wield your spiritual weapon could mean? Maybe it was only a tradition between cultivating spouses in his world? The thought didn't help his face return to the right temperature and Wei Wuxian groaned miserably, letting his head fall onto the table with a thunk.

But the idea of touching Tianwen after knowing Chu Wanning doesn't let people touch his things… the mere idea of wielding a holy weapon that only the Yuheng-Zhanglao was known for wielding… Wei Wuxian’s heart skipped a beat before beginning a mad dash in his chest. He kept his face buried in the compass’ design, willing his cheeks to stop fucking burning.

This means nothing in this world otherwise Shizun would never have decided on this method, he tried reassuring himself but a voice at the back of his head muttered But what if it's a tradition here too? What if Chu Wanning knows of it? What if this means something more?

Wei Wuxian felt like dying. Maybe he has been possessed? He should ask Shizun to check and rid him of the weird spirit that had been controlling his thoughts and steering them in inappropriate directions that involved his Shizun being more than his Shizun.

He held his head with a groan as he remembered that Chu Wanning would have to touch him, extending his spiritual energy into his meridians to thoroughly check for the possession first.

So what if he liked him? He was sure everyone liked Chu Wanning like that. He was too beautiful and talented to not be liked like that. In fact, Wei Wuxian would be offended if every occupant of Sisheng Peak wasn't in love with his wonderful Shizun because they must be truly blind or heartless to not lose their hearts to a man as perfect as-

And with every damn thought about his Shizun, Wei Wuxian dug a deeper and deeper hole for himself. Because now that he had realized he at least liked Chu Wanning more than a disciple should, all sorts of thoughts and fantasies were swarming through him, making him feel irrational and wanting things he had no right to have. He blamed everything on having seen Chu Wanning look so soft and peaceful as he slept a few days ago. Yes. That sounded like a reasonable thing to blame.

Whatever. I would just keep my inappropriate thoughts to myself and all would be well, he thought as he began drawing the characters for the Core-detecting talisman.

A month – it should’ve taken longer but clearly his Shizun was the best of the best for a reason – after Wei Wuxian had finally gotten used to Tianwen and its energy enough to know that the whip would never harm him, the Yuheng Elder had decided it was time they descended the mountain and took on a minor haunting assignment.

What they didn't know was that the minor haunting had been under-reported and it was a swarm of resentful bear spirits who had a grudge against the village’s hunting community. Wei Wuxian had determined that most of the yao were female bears who had young and their resentment was extra dangerous because it held a mother’s wrath in it.

So it didn't come as a surprise that Chu Wanning and Wei Wuxian got separated, the latter taking on two of them with his Shizun dealing with five of them.

The Yao were furious, the sight of Wei Wuxian’s blade making their resentment increase. So they were killed by swords then, he thought as he began humming a tune he remembered the GusuLan using to calm resentful spirits. He knew his last option was to kill them but Wei Wuxian much preferred liberating the souls of the dead.

It may be his experience as Yiling Laozu but these spirits had reasons to hold on to their grudges. No one wanted to not find peace in the after life.

Slowly, the Yao got less aggressive, almost lost in a trance as he kept whistling. When they were more agreeable, Wei Wuxian sat down in the lotus pose and patted his lap, never stopping the calming song. One of the yao laid its head in his lap and let him pat it and Wei Wuxian focused on the resentment, trying to gauge what these poor animals' last wish was.

A hunter, one-legged but tall has killed our cubs and then us. We want to see him gone. He has caused us pain for years because he treasures our pelts and pained howls, one of the Yao finally begrudgingly pushed the thought towards him and Wei Wuxian promised to fulfill their last wish. With a grateful grumble, the spirits dispersed and he sighed in relief. Now to find his Shizun.

“Shizun? Shizun, do you need help?” Wei Wuxian called and heard the telltale sound of Tianwen being whipped around. But the sound was different… almost as if Chu Wanning wasn't using it the way he would. Terror coursed through his veins as the scent of blood wafted through his nose. The next thing he knew, he was running in the direction of his Shizun, hoping he wasn't too late.

And that’s how he found his Shizun with deep claw marks on his back, a pool of blood growing under his feet as Tianwen vanished.

“Shizun!” Wei Wuxian yelled, running even faster and catching Chu Wanning before he hit the ground. “Shizun, keep your eyes open please. Tell me what happened?” He begged and Chu Wanning’s eyes moved to him, scanning him from head to toe, no doubt looking for injuries. When he spotted none, he sighed softly, biting his lips to suppress a wince.

“Let me see the wound please?” Wei Wuxian pleaded and Chu Wanning shook his head, shakily standing up. “How did you get hurt anyway?”

“The yao had stopped attacking me and began moving towards you and I-” he coughed, blood trailing down his lips as he leaned against a tree. “-I couldn't let you get hurt. No disciple of mine will get hurt as long as I live. It's my duty to you all so of course I followed and forgot there was one behind me.”

But Wei Wuxian had stopped listening. He walked over towards his stupid Shizun and wrapped his arms around his lower back, supporting him while trying not to aggravate his injury.

“Disciple. Duty. Is that truly all you think about?” He glared, eyes filling with tears. Wei Wuxian didn't know if he was relieved his Shizun was alive enough to talk bullshit like that or frustrated with his utter lack of care for himself. “You call me an idiot but it's really you who’s an idiot! We may be your disciples but we aren't helpless!” He let his head rest against Chu Wanning’s chest, a sob bubbling out of his mouth.

“Wei Ying-”

“No matter what you think or how you feel about me, I care about you, you damn self-sacrificing moron! I care about you like a person, not like a disciple so imagine how I felt when I saw you bleeding and tripping over your feet!” His hand moved to the front of those white robes, crushing the silky material in anger. 

“I’ll tell you. I felt like my heart would fucking stop beating! You must think yourself so noble, going off to die to save your disciples but have you ever given a lick of thought to what would happen to people when you’re gone?” Wei Wuxian pulled back, glaring ferociously up at the stunned man. But now that he had begun venting his frustration, he found himself unable to stop.

Fuck it! I’ll give him a piece of my mind for all the times I stopped myself.

“We would be lost without you. Who’ll protect us then? Who’ll teach us how to be the best of the best without you? Do you think we would so easily take another teacher and continue on as if you never left a mark on our lives? We’d grieve for you every time we practiced the forms you taught us, every time we looked at places you used to be, every-” He wailed and Chu Wanning finally responded, wrapping his arms around Wei Wuxian and shushing him like one did to a scared child. “Do you have no care for the hearts of those who- those who-” And then his voice trailed off into an embarrassed whisper, face flushing as he uttered the word he had never spoken in a way that wasn't familial before. “-love you and want you to stay?”

“Wei Ying.” Chu Wanning crushed him to his chest, their bodies coming together with no space between them as he rested his head on his disciple’s. “I am so sorry. I- I didn't know anyone cared. I didn't know anyone wanted me to stay or wanted to stay for me.” He rubbed his back weakly, the touch light and Wei Wuxian remembered the man was injured.

“You’re a smart man, aren't you? But that also makes you dumber than the dumbest. You aren’t the only one who cares about people,” Wei Wuxian sniffed, pulling away and staring up at his Shizun with teary eyes. “You’re so so dumb! Fuck you, Chu Wanning I hate you!” He jabbed a finger in one of the claw marks, watching emotionlessly as the older men hissed in pain. “That's not even the worst you deserve for almost killing me like that. Do you have any idea how worried I was?”

“I am sorry.” He sounded uncertain as if it was the first time in a long while he had spoken those words and didn't know how best to say them. Wei Wuxian shook his head at the half-hearted apology. 

“I don't need your words as apologies, I need your understanding. I need your actions to reflect that you know how important you are to people, not just me. I want you to try.” Wei Wuxian bowed his head, fists clenched at the back of Chu Wanning’s robes. He was terrified. So so scared of losing this man. Had he ever been this scared of losing someone before?

The feeling was unfamiliar which was shocking. Wei Wuxian had lost many people he had held in his heart throughout his life but never once had he felt like he would follow them to the afterlife before.

“I promise. I promise I’ll pay more attention to my own safety now. You’re right, who would protect my dumb, incompetent disciples if I die?” Chu Wanning smiled softly, a teasing glint in his eye and Wei Wuxian felt his heart skip a beat. That was a first. Chu Wanning had never joked before and even if the situation wasn't deserving of one, it made the knot in his gut unfurl.

With a smile growing on his face, Wei Wuxian moved his hands up and tenderly covered the deep gashes on his Shizun’s back. He had the beginnings of a nascent core, just enough that he could heal the gashes but it would set him back weeks of cultivation.

It wouldn't matter anyway if Shizun doesn't make it, he thought. He had already lost his core once and he wasn't as attached to the idea of immortality as he was to his dumb, self-sacrificing teacher. So with a soft sigh, he let the qi from his surroundings flow into him and strengthen his core for a while before channeling it into the wounds on Chu Wanning’s back. He kept pouring spiritual energy until the gashes were sewn shut and the skin beneath his hands had smoothened.

“Wei Ying! No!” Chu Wannign panicked, pulling away but it was done. Wei Wuxian had drained his core and without the spiritual energy forming it, it had dissipated. Wei Wuxian felt the familiar coldness wash over him as he was left without his core once more. It wasn't bad this time, it didn't hurt like before and now he had hopes that he could cultivate it again, thanks to Chu Wanning’s guidance.

“Why?” The older man asked, resting his forehead against his, trying to drill into his thoughts with those all-seeing eyes.

“Because unlike you, I am not an idiot, Shizun, I know how to prioritize things that need to be prioritized.” He beamed and Chu Wanning closed his eyes, breathing softly. Wei Wuxian felt his breath hitch. He had never been so close to his Shizun before and while he had always known the man was incomparably beautiful, the idea hadn’t sunk in from the distance that this sort of beauty was harmful to the onlookers.

He wanted to do reckless things. Like counting his long lashes or touching those soft-looking lips. Or- 

He pulled away slowly, helping Chu Wanning lean against a tree.

“Where are you going?” The man asked, confusion swimming through his dark eyes.

“To fulfill the yaos’ last wish of course. I told you before, Shizun, you don't have to depend on your skills alone.” With a last smile, he walked away in the direction of the sadistic hunter’s home.

With his back turned, he didn't notice as Chu Wanning’s face twisted into an impossibly soft expression. He didn't see his eyes fill with respect and something else.

Something like affection

“Hiyaaaahhhh!”

“What are you yelling for?” Xue Meng grumbled, ducking to avoid getting his head taken off by a practice sword of all things. He didn't notice Wei Wuxian sneakily throwing a talisman at him but he sure felt it as he dropped to his knees with a groan.

“Yield,” Wei Wuxian said, placing the tip of his blade at his shidi’s neck.

“That's cheating!”

“It really isn't,” Wei Wuxian said, using a wisp of spiritual energy to summon the talisman in his waiting hand.

“Shizun, he cheated, right? I have such a terrible Shixiong!” Xue Meng ran to the Elder and Wei Wuxian watched with unholy glee as Chu Wanning shook his head.

“That wasn't cheating. While this talisman was harmless and rendered your limbs too heavy to move, there are many people who dual-wield blades in battle. He also distracted you from noticing his other hand move and you fell for it. Will you say they cheated if they catch you with a different blade than the one you parried? Or will you call them a cheater if the distraction your opponent caused leads to your loss?” Chu Wanning raised an elegant brow and Xue Meng grumbled.

“Good,” His Shizun simply said, turning his back at his disciples and Wei Wuxian felt his cheeks colour. Chu Wanning rarely ever praised anyone so when he did, it stayed with his disciples and gave them a tremendous confidence boost for days on end.

Wei Wuxian looked at the retreating back and his eyes caught on the rare flash of colour on his Shizun. He squinted and then gaped when he realized his ears were red. And then Wei Wuxian’s face was burning even hotter. He groaned, burying it in his hands. Chu Wanning was so unfair! As if he wasn't utterly ethereal before but he had to blush like that. How was that fair?

“Shixiong can you tell me what talisman this was? I’ve never seen it used before,” Shi Mei asked, eyes full of curiosity and Wei Wuxian being the good Shixiong he was, took his hands off his face and smiled brightly.

“It's one of my own inventions. This talisman uses the bare minimum of spiritual energy and can be used on anyone. When applied, it makes the target’s body impossibly heavy and unable to be moved at will. The effect lasts for an incense stick and the talisman can be reused five times.” Shi Mei gasped, delighted and Wei Wuxian proceeded to show him how to draw and even free cast it.

“Show me too,” Xue Meng mumbled and Wei Wuxian decided to be nice for once and not outwardly show his smugness at Xue Meng admitting defeat to him.

“Wanna go again? I promise I won't use the talisman and go easy on you,” he asked, face a mask of nonchalant sympathy. Xue Meng cussed and began chasing him across the field.

“How was it?” Chu Wanning asked as Wei Wuxian flexed his fingers in the bloody mechanical glove.

“It slashed easily! This is really good for close-range combat and even though I have Suibian, I think I like this just as much!” His Shizun smiled, the sight of it making Wei Wuxian’s heart slow down until he felt like he was about to die because how could a man be this perfect?

“Shizun,” he whined and Chu Wanning raised an elegant brow in question. “It's not fair! Don't smile at me when we nighthunt or I may just die and you’ll be without backup and an extra burden to carry!”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” he responded, face blank but the corner of his lip twitched in a teasing grin.

“Wan-er!” It was the Elder’s turn to flush and trip over his own feet and Wei Wuxian smiled. Serves him right.

“Say it again?” The man in white whispered, ears burning and Wei Wuxian’s smile turned coy.

“Wan-er,” he crooned and found himself pulled into a pair of sturdy arms, ear pressed to his Shizun’s chest. His heart was beating insanely fast and Wei Wuxian couldn't help but bring a hand to stroke it over his pristine robes.

“A-Ying,” he whispered, lips pressed against his disciple’s head and Wei Wuxian groaned as a blush climbed over his neck and onto his cheeks.

“This is so unfair! Chu Wanning, you're such an unfair man! The universe is unfair to make you the way you are!”

“You’re spouting nonsense again,” the Elder sighed, eyes full of fondness as he took in the sight of his blushing and sputtering companion.

“Whatever!” He threw his arms up and turned to stomp away as Chu Wanning let out a chuckle before following him.