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“Lan Zhan! Are you going to your next lesson?”
That familiar voice. Something Lan Wangji has yearned for more than a decade, full of joy and barely concealed affection.
Turning to the source of that pleasant voice, Lan Wangji glanced at Wei Wuxian, adorned in white Lan robes, approaching him with something keen to a skip in his step.
With a nod in reply, he allowed the other to link their arms together, the familiar weight of the other leaning into his side making a small smile of content rest on his lips. The smile vanished as soon as Wei Wuxian glanced up at him.
Until now, despite their confessions and vows to love each other till the end of time, Lan Wangji still found it embarrassing when the other ever caught him smiling or blushing, especially when Wei Wuxian had the habit of staring at him.
As both of them made their way to the Orchid room where Lan Wangji will be holding a lesson to the new batch of Lan Disciples old enough to start going on night hunts. He was the newly appointed head teacher after Lan Qiren stepped down from the role.
Wei Wuxian had his own classes to teach but not until the Lan Disciples attended Lan Wangji’s introduction class.
“You’re not going to start the lesson by reciting the rules like your uncle did, will you, Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian mused, eyes rolling in a somewhat fond way upon recalling his time as a guest disciple, being taught by Lan Qiren himself.
Usually, Lan Wangji wouldn’t allow anyone to speak in such an informal way, even being so close to insulting his uncle but he didn’t make any move to stop Wei Wuxian.
He let the other talk, humming at appropriate periods when the other paused to make sure Wei Wuxian knew he was listening. He was always listening, even when the other thought he wasn’t.
After 13 years of mourning in silence - a silence so deafening and sorrowful that had nearly pushed Lan Wangji over the edge of sanity, he was blessed by the Gods when Wei Wuxian returned, given a second chance in life in a new body.
The other’s voice, his memory foggy from what it sounded like all those years ago, instinctively recognised Wei Wuxian’s voice when he discovered Mo Xuanyu.
At that time, he was hesitant. A boy in his early twenties, shouldering a reputation far from good with black hair tied in a messy bun. So similar yet so distant. It had pained Lan Wangji with a silent, biting disappointment when Mo Xuanyu’s eyes met his with surprise.
But the moment he heard the piercing tune of a makeshift flute echoing in the forest, reciting that very tune he played with his guzheng everyday after Wei Wuxian’s death, he had leapt on his sword, flying to the source of the music in a flurry of hasty movements.
It was unthinkable that the man he shed tears and blood for was back in his hold.
That cheerful tone that called his given name with such confidence. Or when the other laughed at a joke, always whining his way into Lan Wangji’s heart, or when the other spoke in a solemn, forlorn way, it was identical to Wei Wuxian’s.
Now, Lan Wangji was immensely grateful to any heavenly beings who gave him the bliss of hearing Wei Wuxian’s voice every morning when they woke and every night when they whispered their love for each other all over again, bodies intertwined.
Majority of the time, Lan Wangji found himself calling out to the other, just under the selfish excuse of wanting to hear the other acknowledge him.
“Wei Ying.”
A pause of short silence before he felt the other squeeze his arm in a secretly pleased way, “Yes, Lan Zhan?”
A sense of happiness bloomed in Lan Wangji’s heart before he spoke, “You should join in on the class later on. Sizhui is helping as a teaching assistant.”
Wei Wuxian let out a loud hum before he let out a soft sigh of fondness, “Our A-yuan has grown into a fine man. Already helping out as a teaching assistant. Sooner or later, he’s going to be the next Lan Sect Leader.”
Lan Wangji agreed with a hum that sounded too happy, he had already assured Wei Wuxian that Lan Sizhui was already a recorded heir of the Gusu Lan Sect. Especially when he knew the other had the silent, unsaid fear that something might happen that results in Sizhui being abandoned.
That was never going to happen. Lan Wangji had already done his part to personally convince Lan Xichen and the elders on his choice of an heir, under the sole reason that Lan Sizhui was his son, by blood or not.
However, he had noticed Lan Sizhui’s sudden improved diligence and concentration when studying or training after the younger had heard of the news that he was the heir of the sacred Gusu Lan Clan. He assumed Lan Sizhui suddenly felt pressure to do even better.
Fortunately, Wei Wuxian was always hopping around their son, singing praise and compliments which was one of the main reasons Lan Sizhui was so close to Wei Wuxian. Lan Wangji liked to savor the moments he could watch the two of them, the two most precious people in his life interact instead.
Approaching the orchid room, Lan Wangji was pleasantly surprised to see a group of Lan Disciples already waiting for his arrival, all kneeling at their respective tables, scrolls out and ink prepared, ready for their brushes to dip in.
Wei Wuxian let out a huff, impressed as he detached himself from Lan Wangji’s arm, already allowing his head to peek into the room with observant eyes.
Lan Wangji mourned the touch and warmth of the other but didn’t express his dissatisfaction as he too, approached the classroom of learned students.
Upon hearing their approaching footsteps, the Lan disciples turned to greet him, voices rigid and slightly nervous, fitting how they all wanted to give a good impression of themselves to Lan Wangji.
“Hanguang-jun, good morning.” They all greeted in overlapping voices as he gave everyone a nod in greeting.
Further in the room, Lan Wangji spotted Lan Sizhui already had taken his spot beside the main teacher's table at the front of the room. The young man gave him a polite nod in greeting, a wall of formality in place when in front of others. Lan Wangi had taught him well.
However, Lan Wangji noticed the way Sizhui’s eyes softened and shyly raised a hand to wave at Wei Wuxian, already eagerly waving his arm at the other. It made a soft, warm feeling rest in his gut.
Before he stepped into the class, Lan Wangji spared a glance to Wei Wuxian who was watching him silently, eyes meeting him before the other flashed him an encouraging smile that Lan Wangji didn’t know he needed.
As he was about to enter the classroom, he was abruptly stopped by an exclamation of his name. In cloud recesses, if someone other than Wei Wuxian or Lan Jingyi was shouting, it meant something dire had happened.
He turned, greeted by the two Lan guards bowing in greeting before relaying a message that an intruder was found trying to breach their wards.
Upon hearing that, Lan Wangji’s eyes narrowed, brow furrowing and his hand already gripping the hilt of Bichen before a hand was resting on top of his.
“I can go and check what’s going on, Lan Zhan. You should go teach the little Lan ducklings.” Wei Wuxian suggested a reassuring smile on his face and Lan Wangji would have agreed if he wasn’t so worried that this mysterious intruder might be of unknown danger to his beloved.
“I’ll go,” He insisted, grabbing the other’s hand and giving it a gentle squeeze, “You should introduce yourself to the class, Wei Ying. It’ll do them good to know who will be teaching them as well.”
Wei Wuxian hesitated, smile fading in worry but nodded nonetheless, especially with how Lan Sizhui was already by their side, having been alerted that something had happened.
“Sizhui, I’m leaving the disciples to you as well. Take care of Wei Ying.” Lan Wangji said, tone even and confident because he knew the other was more than capable of doing so.
His son met his eyes before giving a firm nod, “Of course, Hanguang-jun. Please stay safe.”
Letting out a reluctant sigh, Wei Wuxian relented, nodding along before he was being led into the classroom by Sizhui.
Turning his attention back to the two Lan guards, both of them quickly lead the way to the wards to investigate who the intruder was.
The young Lan disciples, having eavesdropped into the conversation outside the Orchid room, were undoubtedly disappointed that their first class with the famed Hanguang-jun was interrupted by sect affairs.
Wei Wuxian let out a chuckle at the visible frowns on the disciples faces, “Don’t worry, little Lan ducklings. Lan Zhan would be back soon. But until then, you’ll be having me as your teacher.”
“Wei-Qianbei.” Lan Sizhui called out to the others, using the title he used for Wei Wuxian when in front of others, worried that the Lan disciples will take offence at him calling them ducklings.
Wei Wuxian, of course, didn’t pay any mind, other than resting his hand on the boy’s head affectionately.
“Why do you not use Hanguang-jun’s title?” A Lan disciple, seated at the very front, raised his hand and asked.
Lan Sizhui’s head whipped around, pinning a gaze at the disciple with such seriosity that the disciple’s hand wavered. Wei Wuxian let out a soft laugh, gesturing for Lan Sizhui to take a seat beside him before replying, his tone slightly smug, “Because your honourable Hanguang-jun has given me his permission to call him by his name.”
The Lan disciple’s hand lowered, he didn’t seem satisfied with the answer but didn’t question his temporary teacher further.
Another hand raised, a different question this time, “Why have you altered your robes? There’s a rule stating not to alter the Gusu Lan robes unnecessarily.”
Wei Wuxian raised a brow, looking down at his own robes before spotting the tint of red in his sash, tied around his waist, a stark contrast to the boring white robes of the Gusu Lan Sect.
“I like to express myself.”
There were murmurs and whispers being spread around the classroom which made Lan Sizhui’s nails dig into his own robes as he gave a glance at Wei Wuxian who didn’t seem bothered whatsoever. The man must either have skin too thick or was already used to the constant badmouthing behind his back.
“One is to stay focused during lessons.” Lan Sizhui finally spoke, his voice cutting through the rising murmurs, effectively cutting off the noise in the classroom. Wei Wuxian’s smile became bigger as he rested his tilted head on his propped up hand, watching the new Lan disciples shift in their seats uncomfortably, slightly remorseful at their previous actions.
“It’s alright. You all are still new to such a classroom environment. What are you most excited to learn this year?” Wei Wuxian made light of the situation, something he was good at. Always pulling away the tension of a situation with his cheerful behaviour.
“Hanguang-jun’s lectures.” The disciples replied in unison.
Upon hearing their united answers, Wei Wuxian let out a soft sigh, unamused, “That’s all? Only your beloved Hanguang-jun's lectures? How about night hunts? Or talismans making?”
The Lan disciples seemed to contemplate his words before slowly nodding in somewhat forced agreement.
“Well, Lan Zhan will be in charge of your morning lectures while I’m in charge of the six arts and talismans making. A-yuan over here will be leading you on night hunts so perhaps that’s something you all will look forward to.”
There was a collective sound of interest before another straight back Lan Disciple raised their hand, “Is Wei-laoshi good in the six arts?”
“If I wasn’t good at it, why would I be teaching it?” Wei Wuxian laughed at the seemingly innocent question before continuing, “Calligraphy, archery, sword fight, music, mathematics and the rites. As Gusu Lan disciples, you should pay equal attention to both lessons and field work. Especially since you idolise your Hanguang-jun, he excels in all of them.”
There were echoing gasps in the room, all the disciples impressed and surely wanting to use Hanguang-jun as their model to follow in his footsteps.
“But of course Lan Zhan has trained really hard since he was a child so it’ll be a long while till all of you are at his level of cultivation. You should all be diligent in your mediating and sword training first before you focus on other arts.”
The disciples glanced at him with different varying emotions.
“If Hanguang-jun excels in all the six arts, then why isn’t he the one teaching us?”
Wei Wuxian let out a hum of feigned contemplation before asking back, “Do you all perhaps not want me as your teacher. Aiyo, that hurts my heart.”
The Gusu Lan disciples at least had the decency to show some sort of a guilty expression on their faces.
But the fortunate or perhaps unfortunate fact was that Wei Wuxian was used to such behavior being directed towards him. It’s a widely known fact that the Yiling Patriarch had finally settled down in Cloud Recesses, beside the light bearer, Hanguang-jun holding him by the leash.
That couldn’t be further from the truth. Lan Wangji and him were in love, truly in love and nothing anybody says would change that.
The Lan disciples in Sizhui’s batch were all close to him, calling him Wei-Qianbei as they followed him around like ducklings do to their mother. It was endearing and Wei Wuxian was adamant on getting to know this new batch of Lan disciples before Lan Wangji came back.
Wei Wuxian knew the new Lan disciples were hesitant, unsure whether a monster like him could even teach them anything and he had to admit he was hurt, even a tiny bit, that the new disciples had so little trust in him. Despite the rumours of his evil doing being debunked after Jin Guangyao’s death, there was still a lingering fear around the Yiling Patriarch and Wei Wuxian was ready to face. He had promised Lan Wangji that he’ll do his best in Cloud recesses as both a spouse and teacher.
“Nevermind that. I’m sure even I’ll be able to impart at least some useful knowledge to all of you by the end of the year,” Wei Wuxian paused, "Hopefully."
The Lan disciples looked disgruntled, eyes shifting to glance at each other with skepticism.
He ignored the disappointing silence and instead moved on to start on the fundamentals of talisman making, a topic he was very familiar with. Something that would hopefully intrigue the young disciples and brighten the mood.
Starting on his presentation on the different sections of a talisman’s component, Wei Wuxian could already see from the side of his eye as he looked at the scrolls on his table that the Lan disciples were distracted.
Lan Sizhui looked upset that none were concentrating on his father’s words but swallowed the temptation to tell his juniors off, instead listening intently to himself.
Wei Wuxian gave the other a small smile of gratitude as he let himself ramble on. The spirit luring array, the array of talismans he created in both his lives.
When it came to topics he loved, he could go on forever about them.
He thanked himself for shoving a stack of talismans paper into his robes before he left the Jingshi that morning. Recently, he has been having the habit of having abrupt and sudden eureka moments where he just had to jot down his train of thoughts.
Allowing Lan Sizhui to distribute the talisman's paper, Wei Wuxian watched with glee in his eyes as he shifted in his seat, letting the juniors dip their fingers into their cinnabar that was pre grinded for them in trays.
“You can use the talisman references on your scrolls for practice or you can be creative and change a few strokes here and there!”
After issuing that instruction, Wei Wuxian finally stood, stretching his hands over his head. He was never the type to sit down for long.
Glancing to his side, it seemed that Sizhui was quite content and engrossed in his own talisman. The young boy had claimed he wanted to replicate Wei Wuxian’s talismans to be used during night hunts and has been toiling away trying to make them perfect.
Wei Wuxian stepped off the elevated platform and allowed Sizhui to work in his own concentrated silence while he did a passing sweep on the rows of Lan disciples already dragging their fingertips across their talismans papers with silent vigour.
He suppressed a yawn, contemplating on sitting back down at his temporary teacher’s desk and taking a short nap since he was sure the Lan disciples that grew up being indoctrinated by 4000 long rules would be able to handle themselves. Lan Sizhui was here too after all!
However, a glimpse of something caught his eye at his peripheral vision and he whipped his head to the side just in time to see one of the Lan disciples at the back nicking his own thumb against the sharp edge of his cinnabar tray to press his blood against the talisman paper.
Acting swiftly, he managed to grab at the other’s wrist, snatching the talisman paper off the table just as a droplet of the disciple’s blood dripped on the table.
Heads turned to see what the commotion was and Lan Sizhui was already on his feet, hand already wrapped around his sword resting on his table.
“Blood is a no go for beginner talisman lessons, little Lan Disciple.” He stated, forcing his tone to be even and serious.
Cinnabar was the most suitable component to use for talisman creation. Blood worked, sometimes, even better but the effects were unprecedented. Wei Wuxian, of all people, knows that very well.
The Lan disciple looked taken aback, a small frown forming on his forehead from getting caught as Wei Wuxian finally let the other’s wrist go gently, his hold on the talisman however, remaining tight.
“What’s your name, little Lan?” Wei Wuxian then asked, taking a subtle side glance to the talisman in his grip, eyes narrowing at the haphazardly drawn strokes. A series of rushed strokes that made Wei Wuxian worry.
“L-Lan Lihan.” The disciple answered, still slightly shocked at himself getting caught red handed.
Letting out a decisive hum, Wei Wuxian declared, “Well, for the time being, you’re banned from partaking in any talisman creation unless there is appropriate supervision. Go to the healer’s pavilion to get your thumb bandaged. Got it?”
Wei Wuxian wasn’t the type to issue out those cliche punishments of copying rules or doing handstands but he decided that such a definitive action would be more suitable.
Lan Lihan gaped, seemingly discontent with the decision as Wei Wuxian was about to walk away, “B-But Wei-laoshi, it’s the first lesson…” The disciple trailed off, seemingly trying to find a reason to justify his earlier actions.
“No can do, little duckling. You are taught in your scrolls that you should always use cinnabar when it comes to any talisman making. Using your blood is forbidden.”
Wei Wuxian turned to face the other, adding, “Prove that you can be responsible with the use of talismans and you’ll be given your privilege back,” He gestured to his teaching assistant, “Sizhui, if you could note that down for Hanguang-jun.”
Lan Sizhui nodded, seemingly noticing the same rushed strokes on the talisman and quickly picking up his brush to write the instruction down.
“Wei-laoshi!” Lan Lihan exclaimed, a tad bit more desperate this time and Wei Wuxian’s heart squeezed but he stayed firm on his decision. There was a fine line when it came to mischievousness and actually committing to something dangerous.
“Wei-laoshi, please! I just wanted to test the theory out. To see if blood worked better so that I can show it to you and Hanguang-jun.”
He frowned at the excuse but stayed silent and let the other continue as the Lan Disciple stood, facing him, only half a head shorter than him. The memory of his own trembling, bleeding fingers pressed desperately on torn talisman papers flashed through his mind and he scrunched his face in unsaid pain.
“If you note down my name, Hangaung-jun will get a bad impression of me.” The Lan disciple seemed purely distressed by that fact and Wei Wuxian softly sighed to himself, maybe that’ll act as a good lesson to not do anything dangerous that could harm oneself and others.
The other Lan disciples were all intently watching this conversation unfold, hands motionless as they watched with widened eyes in slight trepidation on what might happen next.
“Lan Lihan,” He finally started, “Our blood can act as a double edged sword. Using it so carelessly without knowing the repercussions…it should never be done. What would you have done if you had unleashed something that could have harmed not only yourself but your peers?”
The younger bit his lip, head tilting down in sudden awareness of what his actions could have caused and Wei Wuxian was somewhat relieved that the other was at least mature enough to understand that his punishment was his own doing.
But his heart strings were pulled at the devastated expression on the other’s face that he approached the other, resting a comforting hand on his shoulder, “We all make mistakes. What matters is that you admit it was your fault and learn from it, yes?”
He heard soft gasps of surprise coming from the other Lan disciples. It seems he was casting a good impression on them at last.
However, in a flurry of motion, Wei Wuxian was taken utterly off guard when the Lan Lihan shoved him, causing him to trip over the disciple’s table and fall to the ground, ink and cinnabar trays spilling onto the floor and brushes splaying across the table.
Gasps of shock were heard and he felt hands from the disciples behind him grabbing at his robes in an attempt to help him up.
He appreciated their help but he shook their hands off with grateful glances at each one of them.
“Lan Lihan, it is immature to let your emotions dictate your actions.” Wei Wuxian asserted, the previous gentle tone in his voice gone.
The disciple looked conflicted, as if unsure whether to feel guilty or accused.
Before he could say anything more, Lan Sizhui was already by his side, helping him up by a firm grip on his arm before sternly stating, “Lan Lihan, for disrespecting your elders, that’s copying the rule book three times.”
That seemed to rouse a response out from the disciple, “But-”
“The decision is final. I will be reporting this incident to Hanguang-jun later on.” Lan Sizhui continued, finally letting go of Wei Wuxian’s arm when he was sure the other was steady on his feet.
That necessarily sealed the deal for Lan Li Han. Lan Wangji wouldn’t look kindly at someone who had the nerve to hurt Wei Wuxian.
Lan Wangji had informed him shortly after the entire Jin Guangyao conflict that Wei Wuxian’s new body was unstable and susceptible to curses much more easily compared to his previous body.
To see a disciple, someone from the Lan clan nonetheless, blatantly pushing his father was enough to make Lan Sizhui upset.
“A-yuan…” Wei Wuxian called his name, his given name, seemingly wanting to dissuade him from the decision of the copying of the rule book but he confidently met the other’s eyes with a determined gaze.
Wei Wuxian dropped it surprisingly, not even attempting to argue with him but instead giving him a small smile, relief carefully concealed behind that smile that made Lan Sizhui even more protective.
He had skillfully positioned himself between Wei Wuxian and Lan Lihan that seemed equally as upset at the turn of events, facing them with an indignant expression.
The atmosphere was tense as Lan Sizhui pinned a narrowed eye glance at Lan Lihan who looked irrational. Fortunately, the new Lan disciples hadn’t brought their swords with them this lesson. That would be a whole other problem.
Thankfully, Wei Wuxian was quick to cut in, “Alright, none of that. That push was rough. At least it seems you’ve been diligent in your handstands. Everyone, continue your talisman practice. Lan Lihan will sit this class out for now.”
Although hesitant, the rest of the Lan disciples did as they were told, heads turning back to their talismans and fingers pressing onto the paper, especially with the glance Lan Sizhui gave them, as if warning them against doing anything other than what Wei Wuxian had instructed.
Turning his attention back to Lan Lihan, Wei Wuxian let out a sigh of feigned weariness, “Go on, take yourself to the healer pavilion. You’ve must’ve tired yourself out, especially with how rigid you Lans are.”
Lan Sizhui shifted on his feet, attaching his sword to the side of his robes, intending to bring the junior disciple to the healer pavilion himself, as if skeptical on whether the other would really go instead of playing truancy.
However, the disciple merely stood there, motionless and silent, head downcast that Wei Wuxian almost mistakenly thought the other was reflecting on his actions.
“Lan Lihan, did you hear me-” However, before Wei Wuxian could finish his sentence, he felt the oddly familiar feeling of his lips getting sealed, a string of spiritual energy running through his lips like an electrocution.
He gasped, hand raising to cover his mouth in shock. It was such a familiar yet uncomfortable feeling. The last time he had his lips sealed was when he had annoyed Lan Wangji in the library.
A signature move of Hanguang-jun’s but not unknown by the other Lan cultivators, just that only Lan Wangji dared to use it so shamelessly.
Lan Sizhui seemed confused before realising what was happening and he immediately pinned a glare at Lan Lihan, knowing it was the other who had so boldly used the spell.
Despite being able to breath through his nose, Wei Wuxian felt his wind pipe tighten and he let out a soft wheeze, crouching close to the ground as he grasped for his chest to try and control his breathing.
He felt so constricted, trapped even at the sensation of not being able to open his mouth. Lan Sizhui grabbed at him, full of concern as he exclaimed, “Lan Lihan, undo the spell now!”
The disciple took a wavering step back, “H-He deserves it, he shouldn’t have…”
The other disciples were no longer focused on their works, instead all getting out of their seats, some even approaching Lan Lihan to try and convince him to undo the spell.
Lan Lihan did not make any move to undo the silencing spell, instead watching the scene unfold with widened eyes, as if surprised at himself for pulling off such a trick.
Just then, a hand shot forward to grab at Lan Lihan’s shoulder, gripping so tight that the disciple winced in pain.
“Undo the spell. Now.”
A familiar voice and presence cut through the panic and Lan Lihan felt his throat go dry, his hands suddenly clammy and his heart ramming against his ribcage.
The sheer unrelenting rage that was radiating off Lan Wangji was enough to make the rest of the Lan disciples shudder away.
“H-Hanguang-jun, I-”
“Undo the spell before speaking.” Lan Wangji’s tone was cutting and cold, his grip on the other’s shoulder tightened as if warning the other on doing otherwise. But in the midst of the sudden panic Lan Lihan felt, he scrambled to explain and tried to undo the new spell he had learnt without much success.
Noticing Lan Wangji’s fingers curling into a fist, Wei Wuxian knew the other was on the verge of doing something irreversible and his took action before his mind could think through and he forcefully ripped his lips apart, wincing at the blood coating his tongue and lips, leaving a coppery test in his mouth as he called out, “Lan Zhan!”
Lan Sizhui looked visibly horrified at his choice of actions, already rushing off to get a healer from the nearby pavilion.
Hearing that voice call his name, Lan Wangji’s head jerked around in shock before his eyes glanced at the blood on the other’s lips and he instantly knew exactly what the other did.
Letting go of the Lan disciple, Lan Wangji hurriedly approached Wei Wuxian, hands raising to caress the other’s cheek, as if trying to soothe the pain. Upon checking that Wei Wuxian was still somewhat fine, he turned back to face Lan Lihan who was in tears, overwhelmed by the entire situation.
“That’s the discipline paddle.” The sentence was said like it was already finalized, like nothing will change Lan Wangji’s mind.
Lan Lihan let out a hiccup of fear, as any child would in the face of such a serious punishment.
“Lan Zhan, stop. He’s too young for the discipline paddle. And your brother, what would he say about it?” Wei Wuxian quickly tried to diffuse the situation, grabbing at the other’s arm to prevent the other from grabbing at the pitiful disciple to drag him away for his punishment.
“Xiongzhang would agree. Using a spell that hasn’t been taught and to use it against an elder cannot be forgiven.” Lan Wangji refuted, pulling his arm gently out from the other’s hold.
“Still, he is too young. He’s hardly even a teenager, the discipline paddle will bruise his back too severely.” Wei Wuxian continued, lips stinging and urging him to stop talking and Lan Wangji noticed the wince of pain the other tried to hide and his expression steeled.
“If he’s old enough to decide to use the silencing spell, he’s old enough to be punished for it. Wait here for the healer, Wei Ying.” The tone the other used was a tone Lan Wangji usually used when it came to decision making that no one dared to argue against.
No one except Wei Wuxian of course.
“Lan Zhan, stop it-”
However, he was interrupted by the sound of rushing footsteps and before he knew it, a healer was already grabbing at his chin, inspecting his lips and mouth with an expression too serious for something this minor.
At least in Wei Wuxian’s opinion.
“Wait-Ugh. Wait a minute, Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian tried but to no avail and he could only watch helplessly as Lan Wangji was already pulling on Lan Lihan’s robes to drag him out of the Orchid room.
“Wei Wuxian! How could you ever think of forcefully undoing the seal on your lips. It's a silencing spell for a reason!” The healer, Lan Ruihu, someone who reminded Wei Wuxian distinctly of Wen Qing was already reprimanding him, letting a steady flow of spiritual energy flow through her fingertips to his lips in an attempt to sew the wound shut.
Despite his golden core growing significantly, it still wasn't on par to his original body so he had the habit of taking his past ability to heal for granted.
“R-Rui-jie, give me a moment. I need to stop Lan Zhan.” Wei Wuxian pulled his head out of the other’s grip on his chin, already turning to follow Lan Wangji who was already out of the Orchid room and at this very moment, already heading towards the open block where the disciple paddle was held.
“No can do! If I don’t finish sewing your lips, you’ll have difficulty talking the next day. And knowing you, you won’t be able to stand that.”
While that was true, he had more important matters to attend to but with the raised brow Lan Ruihu gave him, he reluctantly allowed her to continue inspecting his lip. But not before persuading his son for help.
“A-yuan, stop Lan Zhan, would you?”
“But Wei Qianbei…” Lan Sizhui looked the most reluctant out of everybody to do so but with Wei Wuxian’s signature begging eyes, the young boy relented and agreed, rushing off in the direction Lan Wangji left in.
With that settled, Wei Wuxian felt a tad bit more relieved as Lan Ruihu continued slowly sewing back his lip, the rest of the disciples surrounding him with worried glances. He waved his hands to reassure them.
He could trust Lan Sizhui, the boy might be reluctant to do his bidding but won't go against his words. Along with that, Lan Wangji had a soft spot for Lan Sizhui which meant it was a foolproof plan!
But his fingers still twitched at what might happen if Sizhui fails to stop Lan Wangji from administering the punishment.
As soon as Lan Ruihu’s hands left his chin, he was able to rush off, tumbling over his feet as he ran across the graveled floor. If Lan Qiren saw him, he would get his ears scolded off.
But as he turned the corner to head in the direction of the open pavilion, he nearly bumped into a passing Lan disciple.
“Slow down- Wei Wuxian?” Looking up, he was met with the figure of Lan Xichen, worry furrowed in his expression.
“Zewu-jun! I apologise- Nevermind that. Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian stumbled through his words and upon hearing his brother’s name, Lan Xichen rested a hand on his shoulder.
“What about Wangji?”
“He’s about to administer the discipline paddle to one of the new Lan disciples because of a silly mistake.”
Lan Xichen’s eyes widened before it turned to confusion, “Wangji is?”
After all, Sect leader Lan has never witnessed or heard of his younger brother issuing any physical punishment to any of the disciples. His brother had a bigger heart than most knew. But from the clear panic and urgency on Wei Wuxian’s face, it seemed something had happened.
“We’ll walk there together while you explain to me what happened,” Lan Xichen decided, watching as Wei Wuxian eagerly nodded before he emphasised, “Walk.”
The other groaned but agreed.
Along the way, Wei Wuxian explained the series of events, from the use of blood to the rough shoving and finally to the silent spell. When he was finished retelling the short version of what happened to the other, Lan Xichen seemed to understand what was going on.
“I should have expected that to happen.” Lan Xichen commented with a soft sigh of acceptance.
“What do you mean? Lan Zhan is always caring to the Lan disciples, especially to the juniors. He’s never been this angry about a mistake, even on nighthunts, he’s never this strict.”
The elder gave him a glance to see if he was genuinely confused before letting out a short laugh of sudden realisation.
“I guess Wangji has tried hard to give you a good impression of himself.”
Wei Wuxian frowned, offended but he said nothing. He always prided himself in being able to read Lan Wangji’s emotions and thoughts through the barely noticeable shift of his lips or the way his eyes glanced elsewhere.
Was Lan Wangji not being truthful with him? That was almost unbelievable since Wei Wuxian could never imagine the other purposefully hiding something from him.
Upon noticing Wei Wuxian’s sudden silence, Lan Xichen quickly reassured, “I mean it as a joke. Wangji’s always truthful with you, you know that best.”
“Then why is he…” Wei Wuxian trailed off. Perhaps it was because he got hurt, he knew how conflicted Lan Wangji gets when he sheds blood, whether from clumsy mistakes or on night hunts.
“That juniors should have never used the silencing spell on you. It might have triggered something in Wangji.” Lan Xichen suggested, steps seemingly slowing in contemplation
“What? Lan Zhan always used it on me though!” Wei Wuxian scoffed, feeling indignant.
Lan Xichen let out a hum, “Has he? I recall he only used it on you during your days here as a guest disciple.”
“That’s…” Wei Wuxian paused. That was true. Earlier on, he himself was reminded that the last time the silencing spell was used on him was when he was still a naive teenager, wrecking havoc in the library.
Sect Leader Lan nodded, “During the thirteen years you were gone, Wangji always played his qin to try and find your soul. I’m…I’m guessing he yearned to hear your voice at least one last time. That’s probably why he has never used the silencing spell on you after you reincarnated.”
Taken aback, Wei Wuxian stared at the other before letting out a soft chuckle of disbelief, "Because of that? I thought he found me annoying when we were younger.”
Lan Xichen shook his head gently, “I’m sure he didn’t.”
Once that sentence was said, they had finally reached the open pavilion where Wei Wuxian saw a few of the older Lan disciples already positioning themselves at the appropriate spots to administer the discipline paddle. Further in, under the sheltered pavilion, he saw Lan Sizhui speaking to Lan Wangji, seemingly trying to dissuade his father.
Though he didn’t look successful in his attempts, especially with how Lan Wangji wasn’t even regarding the other, merely looking forward to Lan Lihan who was forced to kneel, two other disciples standing behind him, waiting for the order. Their expressions seemed confused and concerned, especially with how young Lan Lihan was.
At least Sizhui was trying. However, before he could say anything, Lan Xichen was already passing through the pavilion with firm steps, giving smiles to the disciples who stuttered out their name, not expecting his arrival.
“Wangji.” Lan Xichen greeted his younger brother with one of his usual appeasing smiles he used when he wanted to discourage the other on something.
“Xiongzhang, don’t stop me.” Lan Wangji immediately stated, eyes shooting a glance at the other as if daring his own older brother to advise against.
“I heard from Wei Wuxian what happened and I understand but the discipline paddle is not to be used on younger disciples.”
“There are no rules pertaining to-”
“It is an unsaid rule.” Lan Xichen explained, patience still coating his words and Wei Wuxian stayed silent, watching from afar. It didn’t seem like Lan Wangji noticed he was here yet.
Lan Wangji’s eyes narrowed dangerously before turning his gaze away from his brother, “I have the authority to administer such a punishment. Unless Xiongzhang wants to order me otherwise?”
Lan Xichen frowned in obvious distaste. Most knew that Sect Leader Lan did not like taking advantage of his authority.
Gawking, Wei Wuxian shifted on his feet, contemplating on whether to step in and interrupt this sibling rivalry or stay as a silent observer.
Unsure, he met eyes with Lan Sizhui who noticed him with wide eyes before the young man was rushing off to his side to check on him. The action caused both brothers to look up at him.
“Wei Ying!” Lan Wangji called his name, worry in his tone as he too, approached him, already checking on his healed lip.
“Don’t worry, Lan Zhan. Rui-jie gave me the green light.” Wei Wuxian tried to appease the other. Lan Xichen watched the scene with a face that wasn't surprised at his brother’s quick shift of attention.
“Does it hurt?” Lan Wangji then asked, hurt in his voice which made Wei Wuxian’s eyes soften. He knew better than to lie.
“My lips are still a bit sore. But that was my fault. I shouldn’t have tried to rip my lips apart.” He let out a chuckle to make light of the situation. Lan Wangji, however, didn’t think the same.
The second jade turned, back straight before gesturing for the older disciples to start. The said disciples glanced between their Hanguang-jun and Zewu-jun, seemingly unsure but they followed the order given to them.
The two older disciples standing behind the sobbing Lan Lihan grabbed at his arms, keeping his back straight and the discipline paddle raised.
“Wangji, stop this.” Lan Xichen called out, with a slight urgency in his voice when he realised Lan Wangji was firm on his decision. His younger brother didn’t respond.
The older disciples hesitated but upon meeting Lan Wangji’s pinning gaze and the fact that Lan Xichen hadn’t given them the order to stop, they were intending to continue.
The sheer adamance to the punishment that Lan Wangji finally dawning on everyone, Lan Xichen then suggested, tone firmer, “A compromise.”
Finally, Lan Wangji turned his attention to his elder brother, showing that he was listening but had little interest in any suggestion the other would offer.
“The scabbard of Bichen on each of his wrist, five times.”
Hanguang-jun raised a brow in question, seemingly not comprehending how that punishment was anywhere near the disciple paddle.
Wei Wuxian quickly filled in, trying hard to convince the other, “I’m sure that will ache for days. Lan Zhan, it’s a fitting punishment for using blood on a talisman too. He won’t be able to hold his brush for a few weeks.”
Lan Sizhui quickly nodded along, anything to appease his father’s rage.
A silence of contemplation and Lan Xichen was fearful he might have to issue an order that will result in his younger brother not speaking to him for who knows how many days.
“Acceptable.” Lan Wangji finally agree, tone strained as if it took much contemplation to settle on the decision.
There was a silent sense of relief that spread throughout the open pavilion.
“I’ll administer-” Lan Xichen started but was cut off by Lan Wangji almost immediately.
“Xiongzhang will watch.”
Lan Xichen visibly crumbled but nodded nonetheless, not wanting to push how far he could change Lan Wangji’s decision. Everyone knew Sect Leader Lan would merely lightly slap the disciple’s wrist.
But then again, if Lan Wangji himself did it, there was a possibility he might fracture the disciple’s wrist so Hanguang-jun instead removed his sword from his robes, passing it to Lan Sizhui.
“Five times on each wrist, Sizhui. Firmly.”
“Lan Zhan-” Wei Wuxian tried but upon noticing his son’s glance of determination, he said no more.
It would be a good opportunity for Lan Sizhui to feel the weight of responsibility and they were sure the boy wouldn’t hit cruelly. To add on, Lan Sizhui looked willing to do it.
Lan Xichen blinked before nodding in agreement.
Watching with worry, Wei Wuxian leaned into Lan Wangji’s side, the man’s arm wrapping around his waist, as a way to subtly anchor him so he wouldn’t interrupt the punishment.
Lan Lihan raised his wrists on his own, seemingly grateful for the change of punishment.
The ordeal was completed rather quickly with Lan Sizhui administering the ten hits with equal strength, enough to hurt but not enough to cause excessive harm. Lan Lihan left with a deep bow and bruised wrists but was relatively unhurt.
That seemed to make Lan Wangji’s anger diminish as he accepted his sword back from Sizhui with an approving nod.
The entire incident was soon placed behind them but the new disciples now watched Lan Wangji with more fear and slight respect for his forgiving attitude. The second jade still taught every student with the same amount of attention, his tone merely tightening when it came to Lan Lihan but most assumed that the honourable Hanguang-jun had already forgotten about the incident.
Lan Lihan was unable to write with any of his brushes properly for a few weeks, despite the ointments the healers gave him but he seemed to take it as a way to reflect on his actions.
When Wei Wuxian strolled through the Cloud recesses, the young disciple would greet him, albeit a bit rushed but would still approach him for questions. Wei Wuxian, unlike Lan Wangji, was much more forgiving and had already long let go of the incident.
Though, everytime Lan Lihan had a consultation with Wei Wuxian, either Lan Sizhui or Lan Wangji would be there breathing down the poor disciple’s neck until Wei Wuxian chased them both out of the classroom.
It was then an unsaid rule that Wei Wuxian’s voice was something sacred in Cloud Recesses.