Yanli and ZiXuan were sitting together and discussing something, quiet seriously. To be honest, as much as that sight, warmed up Madam Yu and Madam Jin, it was disconcerting for both Jiang Cheng and Wei WuXian to see their Shijie with that peacock. But what found they do. That peacock, was also one of the reasons, Jin Ling was in the world. Sk theh couldn't just eliminate him dn huffed together and busied themselves, not wanting to punch that git and make their shijie sad.

ZiXuan nodded at Jin Ling called him over to himself and Yanli. Jin Ling was nervous and kind of scared, he didn't know what to do. SiZhui, who saw him, on the border hyperventilation, immediately kept his hand on his back, discreetly and rubbed soothing circles on his lower back. He did nit say, much but tried to convey his assurance through his eyes.

Once Jin Ling calmed himself down, he got up and went to his parents, who had most probably understood the exchange between the two boys, but wisely choose to keep quiet.

A-Li pulled him closer to her and kissed his forehead. Jin Ling literally preened under his mother’s touch. He was soaking it all up like a scorched earth soaks up the first drops of rain.

She whispered, only for the three of them to hear, 'So A-Ling, as far as we deduced, we aren't there in that future of yours. So... who do you stay with? At the Koi tower? Do you visit Lotus Pier? How are A-Cheng, A-die and A-niang?'

Jin Ling was uncomfortable at once and his realized it too. So, A-Li intervened, 'Its fine, A- Ling.'

'A-niang, I really do want to tell you. But I am sure, it will be shown in the visuals and also, I myself am not sure about all the events. So, I think it would be better if you look at it, sequentially. The history we read, was deeply modified, so I have only vague ideas. And also Jiujiu, never really went into depth of what had happened.' Jin Ling rushed to explain.

Jin ZiXuan placated him, 'Its fine A-Ling. We just wanted to know you. But if you say so, we would wait for the visuals to show us everything. But we would like to know you just generally. And I think, even you would like to know us, rather than those idolized versions you might have heard in your timeline.'

And though Jin Ling didn't have the heart to break it to his parents, but he really wanted to know the 'real' them. So when his father proposed such an exciting chance to him. He grabbed the chance greedily.

And thus the small family was left alone, to bond over. But soon the reunion was interuppted when the visual began. Everyone went back to their seats, and looked on as the Dafan Mountains came into view.

If it was darker, then one would need a torch to move freely about in the mountain’s forest. 

Wei WuXian walked for a while, but he didn’t meet many cultivators. He was quite surprised, is it possible that half of the clans who came were in Buddha’s Feet arguing and talking empty words, while the other half could only come back defeated, like the group of people who just passed by? 

Suddenly, cries for help came from in front of him. 

“Is anyone there?” 

“Help us!” 

Everyone became curious, hearing the shouts for help, while A-Ling curled a but into himself, for he knew, what had succeeded this moment. Soon, his family was going to witness his bartty side.

And to be honest, he knew he was wrong many a times and quiet a bit arrogant too. But that wasn't his fault alone. That's how he was brought up by his Jiujiu and xiao-shushu. But he was damn worried, as too how his parents would react, seeing his behaviour.

He was panicking and SiZhui had noticed it. So he bumped his knee with A-Ling and discreetly sqeezed his hand, under his very wide sleeves.

And though his two friends noticed, none opened their mouth, for they knew, it wasn't easy for A-Ling to relive his mistakes and that too in front of his new family.

Both male and female voices could be heard, and all sounded panicked, probably not faked. 

Cries for help from desolate mountains were usually the works of evil creatures, to lure ignorant people into traps. Yet, Wei WuXian was extremely happy. 

The eviler the creature was, the better it was for him!

At this point, Wei WuXian literally got up and left the room, for he could no more hear, just how much more cruel he had got, even after the second chance he got at life. He couldn't just fathom, as to how these kids could even tolerate the presence of such a monster.

The rest if the people were left looking at each other, for none knew, what to say. SiZhui was about to go after his A-die, when ZiZhen got up, 'SiZhui, wait. Let me go. I am not related to him in any way, while the three of you are. So my version is going yo be the most unbiased one, for I never really accepted everything at its face value. So let me handle this.'

'But...', SiZhui was really worried about his dad. He knew of his tendency to blame himself for every small thing, afterall. ZiZhen patted his shoulder and blinked his eyes in assurance, before leaving the room after Wei quianbei.

Lab Zhan was covertly looking at the room, where Wei Ying and Ouyang ZiZhen disappeared and was getting restless with every passing minute. He so wanted to go take his Wei Ying into his arms. But as always, he just restrains himself, while Xichen whispers into his ears, 'Its fine, Wangji. I am sure, Ouyang- gongzi would be able to calm Wei-gongzi down. Stop worrying.'

And though Lan Zhan didn't say anything, he relaxed a bit internally, while also sharing a glance with SiZhui, who only relaxed after seeing his Baba, back to normal, even if only a slight bit.

Jin Ling while staring at his jiujiu, was still thinking, if he would be reacting the same or much worse, when the entire plot was revealed. He was so damn worried about him, that he missed the looks his parents and grandparents were throwing at him, while still confused.

Other room....

When ZiZhen had entered the room, he had expected Wei-quianbei to be upset, but hadn't expected him to go on a talisman making spree. He was shocked a bit, and couldn’t help the giggle that left his lips.

Wei Ying was so concentrated in his work that he was startled ,as soon as he heard the giggle. But sighed, when he realized it was was Ouyang ZiZhen. Though, both sat there, none said a word. And to be honest, it was grating his nerves, for he still didn't understand, as to why these kids looked up to him so much, when he was nothing but a vile monster, as the world portrayed.

'Ouyang-Zongzhu, pray tell me, what good I have dine in that timeline, for you four to trust me so immensely, when I can see nothing, but a vile monster in that body?' Wei WuXian snapped, after groaning frustatedly. 

Ouyang just smiled, held his hand and took him out of the room. Wei WuXian was confused by his actions, nonetheless, followed him out.

Once they back amongst the viewers, ZiZhen cleared his throat, getting everyone's attention, 'Okay. So I know, just like Wei-quianbei, you all too need to know, as to why we trust him and look up to him so much, even after the world painted him as nothing but a scary evil. Then let me tell you. I as a kid had heard all the rumors and read the history books and all, where he was painted evil. But what I never understood is, how come a cultivator killed 5000 of other cultivators and population was still intact. Infact thriving. 

But that not the only thing, that roused my suspicion. How come there was no account of who exactly were the rest of the 'accomplices' with him were. It was all very vague. The crimes to his name, were so vague. It sounded more like children story. And to be honest, I just don't take up all the facts at its face value. And that's why I never really, came to a conclusion about his crimes. Though, I hadn't shared this with anybody, as none in my region seemed capable enough to digest, what I was thinking.

Next, as you will see, all our meetings with Wei-quianbei is just so, illuminating for us (Looking at his friend's, who nodded earnestly). We didn't know his identity at first. But when we realized, who he was, it was just as I had thought, all the rumors surrounding him, were just that. But we all know that he was cultivator with a very strong holden core, so what exactly pushed towards Demonic Cultivation. None asked that question. But we seriously wanted to know, infact we still do. (Jin Ling flinched involuntarily at that, for he was the only one present amongst the viewers who knew the truth, having heard it that day at Guyanin Temple. Glancing a look at his Jiujiu, he had no idea, how he was going to react. He could only pray for the continued sanity of the viewers when the truth came out). 

But the most important fact is, we still don't know what exactly the situation was. We can't just go and blame him, for his thoughts and choices, until we know the facts behind it. So I suggest, we wait and look for the facts, before passing on the judgement. What say?'

Everyone appease at the suggestion, and Wei Ying was gobsmacked to someone standing up for him so fiercely. He was speechless, so other than nodding his head gratefully, he do nothing more. 

The visual had started yet again, pulling everyone out of their thoughts.

He directed the donkey toward the direction of the voices, but couldn’t find anything around him. As he looked upward, instead of spirits or monsters, it was the rural clan that he met by the field earlier on, hung on the trees by a huge, golden web. 

The viewers gasped a bit at their predicament, for they hadn't anticipated it, but Jin Ling winced, for he dreaded the reactions of others, especially his parents. His mother, the most coz it was clear that she loved a Dajiu a lot and he had disrespected him so much and, his arrogance was on another level. And he was sure, that she would be disappointed in him. And he didn't know how to deal with it. It was only SiZhui’s hand clasping his, under the wide sleeves of his Lan robes, that had kept him grounded.

The middle-aged man was originally patrolling and scouting in the forest with a few others. 

However, rather than meeting the prey that they had hoped for, they stepped into a net trap, probably set up by some wealthy clan, which was why they were hanging on the trees, complaining and calling for help. After seeing that someone approached, they immediately brightened up, but the hope faded as they saw that it was a lunatic who came. Although the threads of the deity-binding net were thin, the material was fine in quality, making them difficult to break. No matter human, god, demon, spirit, or monster, it would take a long while for the intruder to struggle out since it could only be broken by a superior magical tool. The lunatic probably didn’t even know what it was, much less how to get them out of it.

'Huh... you don't even know the genius, that so called lunatic is. Pity you...' Jiang Cheng muttered under his breath. And if, Nie Huaisang and his brother heard it, none spoke a word, but only snickered in silence.

He was about to call others to come help him when the crisp sounds of parting branches and stepping on leaves approached. A boy wearing a light-colored robe emerged from within the dark forest. 

'Hey, that's you A-Ling.' Jin ZiXuan spoke excitedly. Off course he was eager to see how his kid was faring in that world. And looking at the scenes, the prospects were quiet good. A-Ling looked very handsome. It was clear, he was from the Jin Clan, with his handsome features and golden eyes, same as his father and grandfather. Even though he and his would be wife were dead, he was happy for his son, at least a bit. The thought of his 'would-be' caused him to blush, though. 

Jin Ling could only wince, for what was coming and looked on apologetically towards Wei WuXian, who immediately waived it off, 'Hey, come on, that's completely fine A-Ling.'

'No. Off course not. Once you see...' Jin Ling began protesting, when Wei WuXian interrupted him, 'Whatever it is, I guess that's fine, for your Dajiu to love you still in the future. And also, I won't blame you, when the entire cultivation world called me a monster, you camt have much knowledge about me on a personal level too. You are only a kid, and I must have dies when you were quiet small, so it all just doesn't matter in the end. For all was well.'

Jin Ling could only sigh and response, 'Okay. But still, I am sorry, for I behaved, for it was not becoming of an upcoming sect leader.'

Wei Ying smiled and they continued watching.

The boy had a vermillion mark in between his eyebrows, his features delicate yet sharp. He was quite young, around the same age as Lan SiZhui—still in his adolescence. He carried a bamboo canister of feathered arrows and a luminous sword on his back, holding a longbow in his hand. The embroidery on his clothes was extremely delicate, forming a magnificent white peony in front of his chest. The golden threads glistened against the dark nighttime shades surrounding him. 

Wei WuXian silently exclaimed, “How wealthy!”

'Seriously Dajiu, that's your first thought?' Jin Ling looked at him incredulously, who only shrugged. 

'But, that's the truth, Young Mistress.' JingYi taunted. Jin Ling sputtered, but was interuppted when SiZhui raised his voice, 'JingYi, let's concentrate on the visual.'

And the both of them shared a secret smile before watching ahead. Though, it wasn't so much a secret to few others.

This must have been a young master studying in the LanlingJin Sect, since the sect was the only one with a white peony as the clan pattern, using the king of all flowers to suggest that they were the king of all cultivators. The vermillion mark implied the meaning of “opening the doors toward wisdom and aspiration; illuminating the world with the vermillion light.” 

The Jins were almost preening at the description, particularly Jin GuangShan. Even the others respected them a bit. But the only exception to this whole proud moment was A-Ling, for he knew how many secrets were kept buried, only in the Koi tower, itself. He knew most of the dirty secrets of his grandfather, if not all. Also, the recent events regarding his Xiao shushu. 

Logically, he knew, he should separate the Jin Clan of both the timelines, but, unfortunately he couldn’t do so, for he knew, even in the present timeline, it was no less, what with Jin GuangShan being the sect leader. 

He could only sigh, full of disdain. He could only wish for all the Jin Idiots to get their work done, as they should, rather than feeling entitled to everything. He just wanted them all to realize their mistakes, so that they could live peacefully.

Though, he knew it was impossible, but he could only wish. Releasing another disdainful sigh, he sat straighter, only to hear two pop sounds, causing everyone to get into a defensive mode. Golden lights shined brightly, manifesting a couch out of air and leaving two humans sitting there.

But before he could understand anything else, there were shouts of "Jin ZiXun" and "Meng Yao", leaving the two recently appeared souls, completely confused.

'What the bloody hell!! Why are we here? How are we here? Uncle, what is all this?'Jin ZiXun, the prat, was screaming self importantly. Whereas, Meng Yao only stood meekly behind him, though he was trying to get a better cognition of his surroundings. He could see his father and his family, but it was quiet clear, he didn't even recognize the son, he had thrown down the stairs. But Madam Jin's looks, was clear to tell him, that she was disgusted of him. He could only curled into himself a bit more.

Except them, he could see the important people from other sects and couldn’t make out anything of his presence amongst these, even though he saw the Nie Brothers who had acknowledged him and Huaisang who was hovering around him.

But the looks he got from the 4 teenagers, from Jin, Lan and Ouyang sect, was wierd. Especially the one from the Jin boy. The look in his eyes unnerved him. It wasn't that of disgust or anger, but something, he wasn't used to, neither had ever faced it. He looked elsewhere, not able to face him anymore.

He was then suddenly broken out of his musings, when he heard a voice, 'Jin Ling, I am going to break your legs, you brat!' And saw the Jin boy, wincing, but there was still a fond look on his face.

They all whirled around to look at a screen, which seemed to project a visual of Jiang WanYin, who somehow looked a bit older, with a look of disdain on his face. 

'But JiuJiu....', Jin Ling began, only to be interrupted, 'Don't you dare JiuJiu me, you brat. What did you wish for? Hah....' Jiang Cheng berated him.

ZiXuan wanted to stop him from en4aged on behalf of Jin Ling, but before he could open his mouth, Yanli held his hand and shook her head, 'He is worried for A-Ling. And look at him. Even A-Ling knows it. I guess he is quiet close to his Jiujiu. Let them be.' 

Though ZiXuan didn't necessarily agree with her, he still appeased to her, and kept his mouth shut. But his wish was soon fulfilled when Wei interrupted Jiang Cheng's tirade, 'A-Cheng let it be. It's nit his fault. He only wanted his family together, right? (Looking at Jin Ling)'

'Umm...well... I (SiZhui rubbed his back discreetly in the hopes of encouraging him, at which he succeeded, as A-Ling smiled) I just wished that the members of my family corrected their bearing, so that I didn't have to lose everything and we could live a happy life. I just never knew that....'

'.... it would result in this. Don't worry A-Ling. It's just I was still working in the arrays, when those elders decided to interfere with it as usual, when I had strictly prohibited it and it has led to this. But don't you worry. I think, that this is for the best. Everybody, needs a chance to redeem themselves. And if your grandfather can get one, so do the others. So stop feeling guilty and you A-Cheng (who was busy gazing at his dead parents and sister, bringing him out of trance) let's go and stop terrorism them. Come...' Wei Ying took him out before asking them to enjoy and telling them to update the two newcomers in the next ten minutes, as the visual would start soon.

And that's what they did. The two were literally stumped to know that someone from the future came and was giving them so much knowledge. And even if ZiXun wanted to deny, he couldn't with all the proofs. But Meng Yao had only one thing in his mind. This Jin Kid, who most obviously belonged to Jin ZiXuan, thought of him as his family in future, as he had mentioned, otherwise he wouldn't be here. It could mean that his father had accepted him. It bloomed a hope in his heart. 

But his hopes dashed soon, and replaced by confusion, when Jin Ling spoke up, 'Xiao-sh.... I mean Meng Yao,,it would be better, if you let that hope die, for he is not worth it. You could have done better for yourself in the future. I sincerely do hope, that you learn from your future-self's mistakes.'

But before he think on it more, the visual had stated again.

The young master already had an arrow on his bow and was preparing to shoot it, when he realized that the deity-binding nets only caught humans. After an initial moment of disappointment, he quickly became annoyed, “I find you idiots every single time. There are more than four hundred deity-binding nets in the mountain, but you guys have already broken ten or so, and I haven’t even seen the prey yet!” 

Wei WuXian thought, again, “How wealthy!” 

And that was the exact same thought in everyone's mind, except may be Jin Guangshan and Jin ZiXun. And even though, Yanli wanted to berate her son for his obvious arrogance, she could do it, with the look that her son portrayed. He clearly was guilty. So she let it slide. But for others, especially ZiXuan, it was completely okay, for he wasn't much different. And his father had never had a problem, infact promoted it.

Wen Chao, thought, it was completely bullshit, to ask forgiveness for showing those cretin their place. Even his father couldn't find the fault in that, for it was the only way to have people follow you and respect you. 

A single deity-binding net was already expensive, yet he had set up four hundred all at once. A smaller clan would’ve become bankrupt after buying so many, but then, of course, this was the LanlingJin Sect. 

And even though the elder Jin males preened at the fact, Madam Jin could only fume inside, for being the prats that they were. One would not be able to see the longing in Meng Yao's eyes, if he aas not QinghengJun or Nie Huaisang. But neither publicized the fact.

However, wasting deity-binding webs like this and not caring about what they caught shouldn’t be considered night-hunting at all. In fact, it was almost as if they were chasing people away, not allowing others the chance of contributing to the process. It seemed that the cultivators who retreated earlier didn’t do it because the prey was difficult, but rather because this sect was one that shouldn’t be angered. 

Jin Ling was only waiting for them to react when they realized, just who the fearsome Sect leader was. Though his jiujiu of this timeline hadn't gone through all that his own had, but he had no doubt that he would be just as fearsome, if not more, in this timeline too.

After a few days of traveling slowly and listening to the intriguing conversations at Buddha’s Feet, Wei WuXian gathered a lot of information about the changes to the cultivation world. As the final winner of the hundred-year-long cultivational disruption, the LanlingJin Sect was the head of all clans and sects—its leader was even referred to as the “commander” of all cultivators. Even before this, the Jin Clan was arrogant, admirers of extravagant splendor. After the years of being at the top and while strengthening the sect, it had trained all of its disciples to do whatever they wanted to. Even a slightly weaker clan would have to submit to their humiliation, much less a small, rural clan such as this one. 

And even though the fearsome cultivator Wen Ruohan was there, Jin GuangShan couldn't help the arrogance that filled him up to the brim. He spoke, while laughing, 'If this is the future, I have no idea, why anyone would want to change it? It's perfect.'

Everyone, each one had a raised eyebrow, especially Wen Ruohan, for he knew what a bootlicker, Jin Guangshan really was. And to see him, preening for something that has not yet happened, clearly meant he was after his position. He decided to bring him back to earth, but was beaten to it by none other than the said man's "grandson", no less.

'Is it really, sect leader? Then, may be you have no problem in dying while still engaged in sexual activities? Well, I thought, it was quiet pathetic, for a Chief Cultivator...' Jin Ling deadpanned.

That shut everyone up and Jin Guangshan instantly paled. It was one thing, for rumors to go around, about his deeds. But to be called out on it so openly and by his grandson, no less, it was utterly humiliating. But before he could process anything more, Jin Ling smiled like an innocent baby, as if nothing happened and commented, 'Come on, let's continue watching. If nothing, your manner of death was quite befitting of your actions, that reflected your entire life. Afterall, you took pride in your dirty deeds. So I think, you should be proud of your death.'

That further caused Jin Guangshan to turn redder by the minute. He was speechless. Madam Jin, was honestly so proud of her grandson, that she gave him her best smile.

And though nobody, said anything, they were all laughing inside, while the juniors were not so subtle, especially JingYi, who snorted openly and whispered in his ears, 'You are truly, amazing Young Mistress. That was one hell of a come back, for a pest like him.'

And Jin Ling, truly felt happy,for he knew, that he was a despicable man and even though, he revealed a side plot earlier than it was supposed to be, he wasn't guilty, for the look on Guangshan's face was worth watching.

Meng Yao on the other hand didn't know, what to think of it. His feelings regarding his father were still quiet conflicting. Yet he found this teenager quiet interesting. 

This was why, although the people trapped in the nets were red with fury, because of the mean words of the boy, they could not talk back. The middle-aged man spoke with tolerance, “Please, Young Master, do us a small favor and let us down.” 

Jin Ling sighed, at his absolute prick behaviour and literally wanted to hide his face somewhere, but was soon calmed down, when SiZhui whispered in his ears, in that husky voice of his, 'Its fine. You have grown up from that. And you know, I still love every facet of yours. To be honest, that one is really very cute.'

Jin Ling almost sputtered, for he didn't know how to respond to that. SiZhui was like this always, leaving him speechless at odd moments. But he still like him too much mind it.

The boy was restless with the anxiety of his prey still not arriving, and it was convenient for him to direct his anger toward the country bumpkins. He crossed his arms, “You guys should just stay here, in case you mess around and get in my way again! I’ll let you down after I catch the spirit- consuming beast, that is, if I still remember you.” 

'A-Ling ', many cries, both incredulous and reprimanding ones came from different sides. But one which stood out the most was, 'If I was there, I would surely break his legs.'

And that caused him to smile ruefully, for he missed his jiujiu so much. But everyone quietened down, for they knew he was guilty of his actions and also, they wanted to see, what all happened, for even Wei WuXian was there. 

If they really stayed on the trees for the whole night and happened to bump into the creature that haunted Dafan Mountain, being unable to move, all they could do would be to wait for their souls to be sucked dry. The round-faced girl who gave an apple to Wei WuXian felt scared and started crying. Wei WuXian was originally cross-legged on the donkey, but as it heard the sob, his long ears quivered, and it suddenly leapt forward. 

Following the leap came a long bray. If not for how horrible the bray sounded, its unstoppable vigour could almost pass for a purebred horse. Unprepared for this, Wei WuXian was thrown off of its back, almost injuring his head as he fell. The donkey ran head-first toward the boy as if it believed that it could knock him off his feet with its head. 

This caused, a few chuckles mixed with horrified glances thrown at both Wei Ying's luck and Jin Ling, who was about to be attacked. But Lan Zhan's eyes were stuck on Wei Ying, trying to check if he was okay. Others came after Wei Ying, afterall. And he knew for a fact, that if Wei Ying was there, others were safe. 

'Lil Apple' Wei Ying pouted, making Yanli pull his cheeks and giggle, 'Aww... my XianXian is sad.'

He hugged her tighter in turn, 'Shijie, XianXian is three and he hurt XianXian.'

And while he was whining, Jiang Cheng such a smack on the back of his head, 'You idiot, that's in the future. What are you cribbing here for?'

And that caused another bout of whining on Wei Ying's part, 'Shijie.... ChengCheng is taunting me.'

'A -Cheng' Yanli looked at him with twinkling eyes, who just huffed, while punching his shoulder yet again.

To be honest, the juniors were quite shocked, with the childish behaviour of both the brothers. It was so different from what they shared in the future. It was more of a echo of this relationship. All they did was sharing amused glances, while Wen Ruohan was still trying to figure out, if the Yiling Patriarch was actually this boy, who was still so childish. 'Really, XianXian is three!!' Huh...

The boy’s arrow was still poised on the bow, conveniently drawing the bow toward its direction. Wei WuXian didn’t want to find a new mount so soon, so he quickly yanked on its reins. The boy took a look at him, a look of shock to suddenly appear on his face. After a second, the shock turned into disdain. His mouth twitched, “So, it’s you.” 

A look if understanding on everyone’s faces, ad Huaisang voiced their thoughts, 'Off course, you must know him. He must have been at the koi tower, for a short time.' 

Jin Ling nodded.

Once again, the unsaid words of Guangshan's deeds and his shameful death, crossed everyone's minds. But they kept quiet, for even the sect leader Jin was too quite. It seemed, that he was still reeling from the shock.

The tone was made of twenty percent surprise and eighty percent disgust, making Wei WuXian blink. The boy spoke again, “Did you lose your marbles after you were thrown back to your village? How could they let you outside when you looked as freaky as this?” 

Did he really just hear something of such significance? Might it be, Wei WuXian suddenly realized, that Mo XuanYu’s father isn’t the head of some small sect, but the famous Jin GuangShan? 

And when this fact was mentioned so openly and confirmed, Madame Jin glared so hard at her husband, that he could have been buried twelve feet under the ground, if that was possible. 

Jin Ling on the hand, was feeling terribly guilty, looking at his actions as a third person. Afterall, he had grown up since then. 

But the writer guesses, that Wen Chao and Jin ZiXun had no such filter or what is called simple courtesy and common sense in normal human language, for both of them, cackled like hyenas. But nobody paid them any mind, except may be Wen Ruohan and Madam Jin glaring at them respectively.

Jin GuangShan was the last leader of the LanlingJin Sect, having already passed away. On the topic of this man, one sentence could not tell the whole story.

And that one sentence was enough to completely shut his mind, for he had never thought of dying so early, after all, Cultivators have longer lives than common people. That must mean that, he lost out on so many beauties. 'What a waste.'

But the others, unfortunately, did not share his sentiments and could only heave a sigh of relief.

And though, he had only muttered the words internally, the look on his face was shouting loud and clear of his intentions. It truly disgusted Madame Jin. All she wanted to do was, go and give that ba***ard a nice kick. It was only Madm Yu's hand on hers, that calmed her down. But she still threw a disgusted look towards him, so dud many others, though quite discreetly. 

The only one who openly glared at him was Jin Ling, 'I so wish you are had died much earlier. At least I wouldn’t he been an orphan, neither would SiZhui and his families have to suffer so much, only because of your greed. I lost every last person, important to me, only because of you Jin Guangshan. You are a vile monster. Not my Dajiu. Huh...' He thought internally. But the fury that he exuded was felt by his so called grandfather, who felt a chill run down his spine and shivered, confusedly. 

SiZhui kept his hand on his back and whispered in his ears, 'Relax A-Ling. He will surely pay for his mistakes. We will make sure of that. Calm down baobei. That endearment, actually got him to relax. 

 Now that, didn't miss out of Meng Yao's eyes, for he was confused, as to why everyone was so happy hearing about his father's death, including his own wife.

Unaware, of fate, the seeds of doubt had already been sown in his mind, which would ultimately change the timeline.

He had a fierce wife from a prominent family and, in fact, he was known for being scared of her. However, even if he was scared, it never stopped him from going to other women. No matter how fierce Madame Jin was, it was impossible for her to follow him twenty-four hours a day. 

Therefore, from ladies of distinguished statuses to prostitutes in rural areas, if he could get his hands on one, he wouldn’t miss the chance. And, although he enjoyed casual relationships and flirted everywhere, having an uncountable amount of illegitimate children, it was extremely easy for him to get bored. 

Jin Guangshan was literally getting jittery, with all his deeds being aired like dirty laundry. And what was worse was the fact that, his wife was glaring away too fiercely at him. He could be dead any minute. He was thus cursing the narrator, for explaining it all in so much detail, while showing a visual of him enjoying between so many ladies, while still muttering, under his breath, 'Well at least the women in the visual are good looking.'

And even if no one else heard, Jin Ling glared at him, for he was quiet well tuned to hearing mutterings and whispers about himself, since as a child. So he had a "nice" training in that. The only negative point in that, was that it didn't bode well for his so-called grandfather. 

After he grew tired of a woman, he would forget about her completely, without any responsibility or whatsoever. 

Meng Yao couldn't help but twitch at the fact, for he was now slowly realizing, that his father was not how his mother idolized him to be. Way yo conflicted at this point, he just continued watching. Though, the juniors were watching him, with much more interest.

Among all of his illegitimate children, there was only one who proved to be exceptionally talented and ended up being taken back—the current leader of the LanlingJin Sect, Jin GuangYao.

'Whatttt!!???', a shout came from Madam Jin, 'But how is this possible. (Turning and glaring at her husband) What was that, Jin GuangShan? How can anyone else ascend to the throne, surpassing my son? How dare you?'

But before she could continue ahead, ZiXuan, held her and looked straight into her eyes, ' Anyone of his illegitimate children can ascend... (He held her still, when she tried to interrupt) only if I am dead.'

Jin Ling and Yanli both flinched, while Madam Jin was looking at her son dumbfounded. Lan Xichen was observing him and spoke up, 'It seems, you knew about this fact since the starting, Jin-gongzi. You seem to have kind of accepted it.'

And that is what rattled both Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng, for neither of them thought, he would be so calm, even after knowing of his demise. It seems, there was more to the Peacock, than they realized.

Jin ZiXuan sighed and then said, 'Well, when Jin Ling first came and was introduced to us. I had figured it out since then. (Looking at everyone's confused faces, and Jin Ling’s crestfallen face, he went and took his son in his arms and sat down with him) The way A-Ling looked at me (He omitted Yanli's name, not wanting to pile up more sadness, who looked at him in gratitude), I realized that, he had never met me. Because he was too skittish and aware of his surroundings, at least around me. So....' 

Nobody, knew what else to say, while Madam Jin was still in shock, while hearing about her only son's demise. When Jin GuangYao was mentioned, a fleeting image if his back profile was shown, which looked suspiciously familiar to Wei Ying and Nie Huaisang. So did to Lan Zhan. But neither shared their doubts openly.

Moreover, Jin GuangShan didn’t die honourably either. He believed that he was old but vigorous, and wanted to challenge himself, fooling around with a group of women. 

However, unfortunately, he failed and passed away during the act. This was too humiliating, and so, the LanlingJin Sect told the public that the old leader died from overworking himself. All of the other clans decided to keep silent about the matter and pretended that they didn’t know anything. Anyways, those were the real reasons behind his “fame.” 

Hearing about it, everyone actually made a disgusting noise. It was only the Lan rules restraining them, otherwise even they would have joined the group. But Wen Ruohan had no such obligation and laughed out loud. And for the first time, no one felt any animosity towards the chief cultivator, for Jin Guangshan was all red in shame. Even ZiXun kept his mouth shut for the time being at least.

During the siege in Luanzang Hill, aside from Jiang Cheng, Jin GuangShan was the second- greatest contributor. And now, Wei WuXian had taken over the body of his own illegitimate son. He really didn’t know if they were even with each other. 

And that confirmation was enough for Jiang Cheng to lose his composure in front of everyone, for the first time in his life, forgetting all of his mother’s threats or his pride, and looked at both his siblings wildly and then clutched his fists tightly, almost drawing blood from his palm, 'I knew it. I knew, I must have been a bastard to you in the future. A-Xian... (for the first time in his life, he showed his vulnerable side to his brother, willingly) I....'

Wei Ying, who had immediately came beside him, held him, 'Jiang Cheng, A-Cheng, Shidi.... it's fine (almost a whisper)... (pulling him into a tight hug) Shhh... it's fine. I told you already. And I am telling you again. If it was you, who led the seige against me, I would never be angry, because (when he tried to interrupt, Wei Ying patted him again, holding him still) Shhh... listen to me. It's because I know, I must javelin caused you immense misery. So I think, I must have deserved it.'

Just when he thought he had Jiang Cheng, understand his stance, he pushed Wei Ying and almost shouted, 'No... it's not. It's not okay. You are my brother, My Da-shixiong, even if I don't refer to you so. We have grown up together. We have done everything together. Be it learning, causing ruckus or receiving punishments. It was always us against the world. Then how could I leave you to fend for yourself, for there was no other reason, why you were at Luanzang Hills. And then I "led" a seige against you. It was never meant to be us against each other. Don't you understand? (Shaking him and them promptly breaking down)'

Nobody knew, how to calm him down. He was in too much anguish. So much that, even his A-Jie and brother couldn't calm him down. They just looked on, clueless. And though Lan Zhan wouldn't admit it, but he had felt too much anger bubbling inside him, when it was mentioned that Jiang Cheng had delivered the final blow to Wei Ying. But now, even he bad, for the siblings. He didn't know, how he would fare, of he had to go against his Ge. 

Jiang Cheng was still crying, when all of a sudden he felt a heavy weight fall on him. That startled him out of his anguish. He looked down to see, Jin Ling hugging him tightly and wetting his clothes. He was bewildered, for he had no idea, as to why Jin Ling was crying on him.

'Jiujiu... (his voice so pained, that Jiang Cheng could help but forget all of his paina and look out for A-Ling)... please don't cry. You were not wrong. Never wrong. You were in a bad position. And the times were quiet complicated then. Please don't hurt yourself. Please.... I can't see my strong Jiujiu crying like this. It feels like, I am an orphan (though, none realized it as ir was all mumbled and Jiang cheng thought, it was said in favour of his father. He didnt thing much, for the pain in Jin Ling’s eyes eyes were tearing him) once again. I....' But Jin Ling was interuppted. 

'A-Ling... shhh... I am fine. See... I am completely fine. I am not crying anymore. That was just a moment. I promise you, I won't cry anymore. Jin Ling... (who continued crying), if you don't stop crying, then I will break your legs.' Jiang Cheng finished sternly, although it came out soft and tender.

It only caused A-Ling and everyone else to chuckle. Jiang Cheng kissed his forehead, making Jin Ling preen, in delight. Wei Ying and Yanli were happy, for they both were assured that, in their absence, at least their was someone, to ground Jiang Cheng and bring his heart a bit of happiness. 

Wen Chao, was so bored of this family drama, that he had slept off. And while the others were still trying to process the facts, the Jiang family, especially Madam Yu was so conflicted in her feelings, that she didn't know what to make out of it. She was by no means, someone stupid. Afterall, she wasn't called 'Violet Spider' for nothing. But kept quiet in favour of getting her facts correct.

What nobody else noticed was, the slight glitter in Xichen's eyes, which had went out since the moment Jiang Cheng had started crying. The small smile that played on his lips, was unfortunately for him, noticed by Mingjue, who smirked as he realized that his friend might have found someone finally.

Seeing that he was spacing out, the boy grew even more annoyed, “Get out of here! It’s disgusting just looking at you, you damn gay!” 

In terms of his generation, it was highly possible for Mo XuanYu to be an elder to the boy, maybe an uncle. After being humiliated by a junior like this, Wei WuXian thought that even if not for his own sake, he needed to return the humiliation for Mo XuanYu’s body, “What an attitude! I suppose that you didn’t have a mother to teach you?” 

Wei Ying sucked his breath and looked at his Shijie, horrified. 'I am sorry Shijie.... I.... A-Ling... I am so so so... sorry....'

Jin Ling sighed, 'Its fine Dajiu. You have already apologized for it in the future. And I still owe you so many apologies. So let it be... please...'

He sighed and turned to his shijie, who just kept her finger on his lips and shook her head, smiling and patted his head. 

Hearing his words, two raging flames sparked in the boy’s eyes. He unsheathed the sword on his back and threatened, “What… Did you say?” 

The blade of the sword shone a golden light. It was a rare sword of high quality—most clans probably couldn’t get a small piece of it even if they spent their whole lives saving for it. Wei WuXian examined it attentively, somehow thinking that the sword seemed familiar to him. 

'Hey that's Suihua', Jin ZiXun cried and looked at Jin Ling almost accusingly, when he realized, it was his father's sword. So it was completely fine.

ZiXuan was so proud, that he grinned widely and side-hugged his son, 'I am so happy, that you wield Suihua. At least, if not me, my sword was there to protect you.'

It was quiet refreshing to see the peacock act with so much humility. But that's when Nie Huaisang commented, 'But Wei-xiong, you memory sucks, literally.'

Wei Ying only shrugged, 'Well, that's how wierd it is. I have no control over it.'

'Off course. Afterall you inherited you mother’s memory. She also used to forget th things that weren't so important, according to her, mind you. But would remember wierd thing at wierdest moments.' QinghengJun chuckled, reminiscing his friend.

'Really?? Well, I never knew. I just thought, I was wierd. Wow... that's nice to know', Wei Ying was happy thinking about the new information, he got about his mother.

'Fengmian didn't you tell him? It was quiet a weird habbit of hers. But quite notable. I thought, he knew it.' QinghengJun asked, confused.

And it was awkward for the Jiangs, while Wen Chao found it quiet amusing, for who hadn’t heard of the rumors. Well, may be except QinghengJun, as he was in seclusion, since so long. And as nobody answered, QinghengJun was suspicious. But let it go, for the moment.

Then again, he had seen his share of gold, top-notch swords. He didn’t think too much about it and began to spin a tiny cloth bag that he held in his hand. 

It was a makeshift “spirit-locking bag” that he had created a few days ago, using the scraps and pieces of things. As the boy wielded the sword and came toward him, he fished a piece of human-shaped paper out of the spirit-locking bag. He shifted to the side, avoiding the attack, and slapped the paper onto his opponent’s back. 

Everyone was looking minutely at all the actions, especially ZiXun, for Wen Chao was a lost case, who felt it was all a complete waste of time. But ZiXun, had this immense irritation inside him, towards this Wri WuXian, for humiliating his family like this. He was trying to find, any excuse, to get him for good. According to him, he was doing a favor on the Cultivation World. But others were more interested in seeing Wei Ying again at work, without his Demonic Cultivation. Wen Ruohan being the most involved one.

Jiang Cheng on the other hand, tried to smother his laughter, for he knew what was coming for A-Ling. Though, he was torn between feeling amused and indignant for Wei WuXian and A-Ling respectively. 

The boy’s movements were already fast, but Wei WuXian had done a lot of “tripping someone while slapping a talisman onto their back”, which meant that he was faster. The boy suddenly felt his torso become numb, his back weakening, and he unwillingly collapsed onto the ground, with his sword also falling to the side with a clunk. He couldn’t get up no matter how hard he tried, as if a mountain was on top of him. On his back, there was a ghost who had died from gluttony, crushing him to the point that he couldn’t even breathe. 

'A-Ling....', Madam Jin looked on worried, while she glared at Wei WuXian, '(Turning towards Madam Yu) A-Yan, why don't you say something to this brat? He could have killed A-Ling.'

Madam Yu, took a deep breath and spoke up, which seemed quiet forced, for she knew the fact, but had always turned a blind eye to it, 'Liliang, I know the brat. And trust me on this, that he would never cause him any injury, until and unless, he hasn't harmed him. Until then, I believe, he is just teaching him a lesson, so that the arrogance could tone down a bit.'

It looked like it pained her a lot to say that, but Madam Jin was satisfied, for she knew what a sore spot that brat was for her sworn sister. And if she was okay with his actions, then it might be okay. Wei Ying raised his eyebrows, for it was loke one of those rarest moments, for Madam Yu approved of him. The rest of the Jiang were too happy at the moments that unfolded. But it truly unsettled QinghengJun and Lan Qiren, for it seemed like the rumors had actually been successful to break the family. They could only pray for their fears to be unfounded. But the situations unfolding, were against it all.

Although the ghost was weak, it was completely capable of dealing with brats like this one. 

Wei WuXian picked up his sword, weighed it in his hands, and swung toward the direction of the deity-binding net, splitting it in half. 

The family fell to the ground in an awkward way, but they sprinted off without saying anything. The round-faced girl seemed as if she wanted to thank him, but she was pulled away by an elder, who was scared that Young Master Jin would hate them even more. The boy on the ground was fuming, “You damn gay! Good for you, taking this sort of wrong path because you didn’t have enough spiritual powers to do anything! Watch out for your life! Do you know who came today? Today, I…” 

Yanli so wanted to correct her son and his notions, when ZiXuan beat her to it, 'A-Ling, so you seriously hate cut sleeves that much?'

Jin Ling sighed and looking into his father's eyes, to deliver the conviction, while holding SiZhui’s hand under the sleeves, 'No A-die. But at that point of time, I hadn't been explained about that form of love. And also what Mo XuanYu did, had a great impact me. So it was more of my disgust at Mo XuanYu’s actions than, his status as a cut sleeve. I had always been taught by the LanlingJin tutors, that the union of a man and woman was normal and cut sleeves were still frowned upon.

But nor the YunmengJiang tutors, nor JiuJiu said anything against cutsleeves, so I wasn't so convinced with the Jin elders' thoughts. So, my tirade at Dajiu, was more from the slight that Mo XuanYu caused. Though in the hindsight, I think... (giving a fleeting look towards Meng Yao), that he was set up. I don't have any more reservations. I know, love is all about the people being involved together. It has nothing to do, with what other people think about them. Afterall, it's not them in equation.'

All his friends patted his back, while JingYi tried to crack a joke, 'Well, Young Mistress, you seemed to have finally grown a brain.'

Jin Ling deadpanned, 'Well, you are speaking, as if you had any to begin with', causing everyone to crack in a laugh. But before the debate about "brains" could go ahead, the visual started playing again. 

Although the cultivation method that he used in the past was often criticized and, in the long term, it harmed the cultivator’s health, it could be mastered quickly. It was also especially attractive because there were no limitations as to the cultivator’s spiritual powers or talent, making it so that there were always people who secretly practiced it to find a shortcut. The boy presumed that, after being chased from the LanlingJin Sect, Mo XuanYu had chosen the dishonourable path, which was a reasonable conclusion to draw, saving Wei WuXian from a lot of unnecessary trouble.

The boy pushed on the ground, but couldn’t get up even after a few tries. His face was scarlet and he gritted his teeth, “If you don’t stop, I’m gonna tell my uncle, and you’re gonna wait for your death!” 

Wei WuXian wondered, “Why is it your uncle, not your dad? Who’s your uncle, again?” 

And Wei Ying winced again. He was about to apologize again, when Jin Ling butted in, 'No Dajiu. Let it go. Please. No apologies, for something you haven't done yet. Think of it as another version of you doing it, for you haven't gone through, what he has. So neither do you have the right, nor any duty to apologize on his behalf.'

Jiang Yanli and Jin ZiXuan were literally so proud of their son and wedw great full to the said Uncle, be it Jiang Cheng or Jin GuangYao, for raising their kid so good. He had a better conscience, which even Lan Qiren couldn't help but compliment, 'You have a good conscience and perfect understanding. You would make a great sect leader one day.'

Jin Ling was so happy to gain Grandmaster Lan's approval. But what they didn't tell him was, that Jin Ling was already a sect leader and his sect seemed to be trying to redeem itself.

A voice suddenly came from behind him, a mixture of being bitter and cold. 

“I am his uncle. Do you have any last words?” Hearing the voice, all of the blood from Wei WuXian’s body travelled to his head and drained away a moment later. The good thing was that his face was already a pile of white. A shade whiter wouldn’t make too much of a difference. 

Everyone shared a look, as to who it could be. But the Jiang siblings knew, who it might be. Afterall, they each other inside out.

A violet-clothed youth approached in confident steps, his jianxiu robe flowing smoothly and his hand pressing on the hilt of his sword. A silver bell hung by his waist, although it made no sound as he walked. 

The young man had thin brows and almond eyes. His features were handsome in a sharp way, and his eyes held a composed vigour, with a slight intention of attack, appearing to be two bolts of lightning as he stared. He stood ten steps away from Wei WuXian, his expression resembling a honed arrow on the bow, ready to be released at any moment. Even his posture emitted an air of arrogance and overconfidence. 

Xichen couldn't help the shiver that run down his spine, looking at the Sect Leader Jiang Cheng. He was looking so attractive and even more, his eyes, which seemed to only show anger, only to hide, his innermost feelings. And he so wanted to see through his soul.

Mingjue leaned over and whispered in his ear, 'Seems like, my very dear friend has developed a crush. Is it?'

Xichen widened his eyes, 'Da-ge.... it's nothing like that. I....I....' His cheeks turning red. QinghengJun had to smother his laughter, looking at both of his love-infected sons, for if one saw WangJi, they could see how his eyes were stuck on Wei-gongzi's face, every time the visuals paused.

Jin Ling’s entire demeanor had softened. It felt that, just the visual of his Jiujiu aas enough to relax him and give him an air of confidence. Jiang Yanli knew, who to thank now, for her son seemed to have made his Jiujiu his everything. Even ZiXuan and Madam Yu realized this. But what unsettled her was the look, that A-Ling gave A-Cheng, which neither of her children gave her ever, after Wei WuXian came in their life. And she so hated him for it, not realizing, her own fault in all that.

He frowned, “Jin Ling, why did you linger for so long? Do you really need me to come and pick you up? Look at what a terrible situation you’re in right now, and get up!” 

After the initial numbing of his head, Wei WuXian quickly realized what was going on. He curled a finger inside his sleeve and made the piece of paper retreat. Jin Ling felt his back lighten and immediately rolled up, grabbing his sword in the process. He shifted near Jiang Cheng and pointed at Wei WuXian accusingly, “I’m gonna break your legs!”

Everyone raised their eyebrows at the pair. They could more of parent-child that he was with his biological parents. But none could point a finger at that, for it was understandable. 

Wei Ying was looking at them in awe, 'You both look so similar and so is your demeanor and mannerisms. Correct me, if I am wrong.'

'No Wei-qianbei, you are absolutely correct. Jin Ling has ingrained Jiang-zonghzu, in the same way, SiZhui has ingrained HanGuangJun and ZewuJun.' ZiZhen spoke enthusiastically, only to earn two smacks on his head by both SiZhui and Jin Ling, who muttered, 'You idiot. Do you want to reveal everything, before time only.'

ZiZhen bit his tongue. But the damage was already done. The others laughed and decided to let it go and waited for the visuals to show them.

With the pair of uncle and nephew standing beside each other, it was clear that they shared a close resemblance, probably able to pass for brothers. Jiang Cheng moved his finger, and the paper doll swiftly flew out of Wei WuXian’s hand and into his own. After taking one look at it, hostility came over his face. He pressured his fingers, and the paper was ignited, burning to dust with the screams of dark spirits.

Jiang Cheng spoke grimly, “Break his legs? Haven’t I told you? If you see this sort of evil and crooked practice, kill the cultivator and feed him to your dogs!”

Wei WuXian heard through the entire narration and then Jiang Cheng's tirade, not showing any emotion, except when the dogs were mentioned. It was clear as a day for everyone else to see, what Jiang Wanyin felt about his future self's acts: utter loathe. Afterall, he was one of those who clearly knew, just what dogs did to Wei WuXian, why he had made peace with his dogs being sent away, when A-Xian came to Lotus Pier. He knew, A-Xian would never accept his apology, for he thinks, his future self might deserve it. So the only think he could do was hold his hand tightly, while passing on the assurance that, this type of confrontation would never come to pass between them.

For those against, Demonic Cultivation and Wei WuXian altogether, this was an apt punishment. No need to mention, who they were. But Xichen clearly saw, Wangji's grip tightening on Bichen. He was worried, his brother might snap, anytime with how much all this was hurting Young Master Wei.

Wei WuXian couldn’t even attempt to grab his donkey, backing away at rapid speed. He thought that, after so many years, no matter how much hatred Jiang Cheng had held for him, it would have disappeared long ago. He didn’t expect that not only did it not disappear, it became richer, as if it was a jar of aged alcohol. At the present time, his hatred had grown to affect even people who cultivated like him!  

A-Li, who had been quiet up till this point, spoke up quietly but carrying the authority, that the Violet Spider was famous for, 'A-Cheng, I don't know what happened in that future and what all we are going to witness, but you would well to remember that, we three are siblings and our bond, is first and foremost. And so would you A-Xian. I am not willing to take this type if shit lying down. I would never, for once let you both hate each other to the point that there remains just the tatters of our relationship, which has been nurture under a lots of hardships (Throwing a significant look towards her parents, who were, to be honest, left surprised with their generally demure daughter so feisty).'

Jiang Cheng and Wei WuXian were both left slack jawed along with Jin Ling and his father, with the amount of power her voice exuded

 It was like, she had two sides, both completely opposite to each other. While one, was the gentle A-Li, who would feel your surrounding with so much love that you would never feel awkward in her presence. While this new side, unfolding in front of them, was a very clear indication, that she wasn't the Violet Spider's daughter for nothing. She had MeishanYu's blood, who were known for their aggressive nature and strength, that cowered all.

Others were impressed too, well may be except Jin Guangshan, for he had thought of having a demure wife for his son. He should have known, his wife would never select some weak willed girl for her son, when she herself was strong enough that he was scared of her sometimes. Though it dud nothing to curb his shameless endeavors. In the end, both the brothers only nodded while still thinking about their sister's dual personalities, foe she had a big smile plastered on her face, as soon as she got a confirmation from them, just like their gentle Shijie.

With someone backing him up, Jin Ling’s attacks became more aggressive. Wei WuXian slid two fingers into the spirit-locking bag, about to take something out, when suddenly, the blue glare of a sword slashed out like lightning. It collided with Jin Ling’s sword, breaking the powerful sword’s golden rays in an instant. 

Everyone who knew and had heard of Bichen, looked more closely at the fight now, for it was turning quiet interesting now.

It wasn’t because of the quality of the swords, but rather the great disparity in the strengths of the persons using the swords. Wei WuXian had originally calculated the timing, but his movements were suddenly interrupted by the sword’s glare, causing him to trip. He fell toward the ground, right on top of a pair of snow-white boots. After pausing for a moment, he slowly lifted his head. 

What first came into his sight was a long, slender blade, crystalline and translucent, as if it was made of ice. 

In the cultivation world, this sword was one of the most famous ones. Wei WuXian had experienced its powers countless times, including both battles fought beside it and against it.

(Wei Ying laughed at that, leaving Lan Zhan just as puzzled as others. And when others looked at him incredulously, he explained, 'Well, if it was against Lan Zhan, I am glad, Iwent down fighting him, for he and I are equal. Plus, he is an honorable man. I can't imagine, what the other sects would do, if they hated me, as much as the visuals show in the rumors). The hilt of the sword was forged from pure silver that had been refined with secret techniques. The blade of the sword was extremely thin, almost transparent, sending forth the cold breaths of ice and snow. However, at the same time, it could cut through iron like cutting through mud. This was why, although the sword looked light, as if it could fly away any instant, it was actually quite heavy, unable to be wielded by the average person. 

Its name was “Bichen.” The blade turned, and the clank of the sword being inserted back into the scabbard sounded from above Wei WuXian. At the same time, Jiang Cheng’s voice came from afar, “And I was wondering who it was. So, it is you, Second Young Master Lan.”  

Everyone was surprised at that. No, not at Lan Zhan's presence, but with the tone, that Jiang Cheng greeted him with. Even the two present in the room, looked quiet confused, though, no one could make out from Lan Zhan's blank face. But one look at his eyes and you would know the truth.

The pair of white boots passed around Wei WuXian and calmly walked three steps forward. 

Wei WuXian raised his head and got up. As he walked past the former, slightly brushing their shoulders, he made eye contact with him for a short moment, pretending that it was unintentional. 

He had an aura of smooth moonlight. The seven-stringed zither that he carried on his back was narrower than most. Its body was black, made using wood of soft color. 

The man wore a forehead ribbon with cloud patterns. His skin was fair, features both refined and elegant, as if he was a piece of polished jade. The color of his eyes was especially light, like they were made of colored glass, causing his gaze to be overly distant. 

'Oh! My God.... Lan Zhan, you get even more handsome in future. But... but... why are you so sad.' Wei Ying was jumping at the first clear appearance of HanguanJun, just the way, the future one did, causing the juniors to giggle and facepalm at that. 

So were everyone else. But what puzzled them all,was how come he came to the conclusion that, Lan WangJi was sad, for his face showed no emotions. Even Lan Zhan was a bit ruffled. It was not everyday, that someone could read his blank face so well and understood his silence.

WuXian had realized, the commotion he created in Lan Zhan's heart and looked towards the juniors, 'Hey, you must be knowing, why he was sad right. Look he is even wearing the mourning clothes.'

And that drew everyone's attention to that aspect too. It just left everyone more confused, except the kids. And when he didn't get any answers, he too turned to the visual, for that only held all the answers. 

His expression held the traces of frost and snow, stern to the degree of being stiff, unwavering even as he saw Wei WuXian’s ridiculous face. 

There wasn’t a single speck of dust or wrinkled spot on him, from his head to his feet. It was impossible to find any fault with his appearance. Even so, two capitalized words jumped into Wei WuXian’s mind. 

Mourning clothes! 

Mourning clothes, indeed. Although all of the clans in the cultivation world used extravagant words to describe the GusuLan Sect’s uniform as the best-looking uniform and Lan WangJi as an incomparable beauty (Lan Zhan's ears turned turned, which aas very amusing for his father and brother, while his uncle was frowning) who only appeared once in a blue moon, nothing could help the bitter facial expression that made him look as though his wife had passed away.

Now this jolted them all out of their happy mood, for they were all now confused, as to why was Lan Zhan mourning. Did he really lose his wife? Afterall, thirteen years was a long time.

But for Lan Zhan himself, he knew full well, without any doubts, just who he was mourning for. He was mourning for Wei Ying's passing. For no one held his attention, except the bright and cheerful youth, who smile wrecked his entire rulebook. And Lan Zhan knew himself well enough to know, that the future him wouldn't change much. All, he might do is, fall for Wei Ying more, which was also a scary thought. But SiZhui's presence and his coveted glances, were enough to warn him of the future.

So while almost everyone else was sad, he was internally happy, as Wei Ying had finally been resurrected. So were Xichen, QinghengJun, Yanli, Wen Qing and Nie Huaisang. The only smart people in the room, aside from the future travellers. 

In an unlucky year, enemies would often find their paths to cross; good news always traveled alone, but one disaster always followed the next… Thus, the situation right now. 

Lan WangJi was silent, staring straight ahead, standing motionlessly in front of Jiang Cheng.

Both of them looked do formidable that every else was in awe of them. Even the visuals of them had that strong aura. Fengmian and Qiren were both satisfied, as their sects were left in a better hands. 

Jiang Cheng was already exceptionally handsome, but as they stood face to face with each other, he still seemed a few degrees inferior. ('Really', Jiang Cheng elbowed him, but Wei Ying grinned unabashed, 'Well, it's not my fault that, HanGuangJun is so handsome') He raised one brow and spoke, “HanGuang-Jun, you sure live up to your reputation of ‘being wherever the chaos is’. So, you had time to come to this remote area today?” 

Powerful cultivators from prominent clans usually didn’t care to pay attention to lower-level preys. However, Lan WangJi was an exception. He never cared for the prey of a night-hunt, and wouldn’t refuse to go just because the creature was not threatening enough to increase his fame. If anyone wanted help, he would be there. He had been like this ever since he was young. “Being wherever the chaos is” was the comment that the public gave him for his night-hunts and, also, praise for his moral character. 

'Wooohoooo... Lan Zhan is so good', Wei Ying was grinning while others were exasperated at his behaviour. WangJi was... well he didn't know how to respond to this, which was entertaining his tormentors so much, for example his father and brother, who were now in an unspoken alliance with Huaisang, Yanli and Wen Qing. The juniors had already expected this, so they didn't react,,except having the same exasperated expression as others, which caused Wen Ruohan and Meng Yao to rethink, just how could the world even call this kid like man a monster. It seemed, he hadn't grown up in the future too. 

Right now, Jiang Cheng really didn’t seem too polite as he said the words in such a tone. Even the juniors who came following Lan WangJi didn’t seem comfortable hearing it. Lan JingYi spoke straightforwardly, “Isn’t Sect Leader Jiang here as well?” 

Everyone facepalmed themselves, but Wei Ying cracked up laughing, while praising JingYi, 'Well, you got a good one their JingYi.'

Lan Qiren snapped, though, 'You will not encourage that.'

But JingYi decidedly preened at Wei-qianbei's praise.

Jiang Cheng replied grimly, “Tsk, do you really think that you should butt in when your seniors are conversing? The GusuLan Sect has always been known for its respectful conduct. Is this really how it teaches its disciples?” 

Lan WangJi seemed as if he didn’t want to engage in conversation, throwing Lan SiZhui a look. The latter understood and told the juniors to speak among themselves. Afterward, he spoke to Jin Ling, “Young Master Jin, night-hunts have always been fair competitions amongst the different clans and sects. However, to set up nets all over Dafan Mountain is clearly hindering the cultivators, causing them to fall into the traps. Is this or is this not against the rules of night- hunting?”

Everyone praised SiZhui for his level-headedness. But what actually surprised both Wangji and WuXian was the fact, that he was so intuned with Lan Zhan that, he could just understand from one look. They must share a close relationship than what was portrayed. It seemed, Lan Zhan was personally involved with SiZhui’s life after he was adopted, making Wei Ying, sigh with happiness, for he was worried about SiZhui’s life, as he was his son.

Jin Ling’s grim expression was exactly the same as his uncle’s, “What can I do? It was their own fault for stepping into the traps. I’ll solve everything after I finish capturing the prey.” 

Before anyone could say anything more, Yanli stepped in, 'I hope you have properly understood the implications of your actions A-Ling.'

He nodded demurely, for he was still not used to his mother’s dangerous side, as he had always heard about her being so gentle. Even JiuJiu said so. But it seemed, even they were shocked at her other side.

Lan WangJi frowned. Jin Ling was about to speak again, but he suddenly realized that, shockingly, he could neither open his mouth nor make any sounds. Seeing that Jin Ling’s upper and lower lips became inseparable as if they were glued together, anger appeared on Jiang Cheng’s face. The sloppy manners that he upheld before this were all gotten rid of, “You, with the Lan surname! What do you mean by this? It’s not your turn to discipline Jin Ling yet, so release the spell, now!” 

With the argument getting more heated, so was the interest raising in the viewers. The two involved, were so clueless about their respective anger that they couldn't fathom any reasons.

The silence spell was used by the Lan Sect to reprimand its disciples. Wei WuXian had suffered a ton from this little trick. Although it wasn’t anything too complicated or obscure, only people of the Lan Clan could release the spell. If one wanted to forcibly speak, it would result in either their lips being ripped bloody or a hoarse throat for a couple of days. The only solution was to stay silent and reflect upon the wrongdoings until the time limit of the punishment was over. Lan SiZhui spoke, “Sect Leader Jiang, there is no need for anger. As long as he does not break the spell forcefully, it would release on its own, after thirty minutes.” 

Before Jiang Cheng opened his mouth to speak, a purple-clothed man in the Jiang Sect’s uniform ran toward them from within the forest. He shouted, “Sect Leader!” 

However, after seeing Lan WangJi’s presence, he hesitated. Jiang Cheng spoke satirically, “Talk. Is there more bad news?” 

The man spoke in a low voice, “Not long ago, a blue sword flew over and destroyed the deity- binding nets that you had set up.” 

Everyone raised their eyebrows at the statement. 'Just how much resentment did those two held for each other?' Wondered Wen Qing. She had a vague idea, as to why they hated each other. And the only reason she could find was "Wei WuXian". But how were they connected through all this, was still a mystery, that only the visuals could answer.

Jiang Cheng glanced at Lan WangJi harshly, his displease plastered all over his face, “How many were broken?” 

The man replied carefully, “... All of them…” 

That’s more than four hundred! 

Jiang Cheng seethed with anger. He didn’t expect the journey to be this unlucky. Originally, he came to help Jin Ling out. Jin Ling would be turning fifteen this year, the age of which he should already be making his debut and starting to compete with the juniors of other clans. Jiang Cheng considered the decision carefully before choosing Dafan Mountain as the location of the hunt. He also set up nets everywhere and threatened the cultivators of other clans, showing them the consequences so that they would retreat, in order to let Jin Ling, take the top prize without anyone fighting against him.

 Although four hundred deity-binding nets were a whopping price, it wasn’t too much for the YunmengJiang Sect. Nonetheless, losing the nets were a small matter, but losing face was not. 

To be honest, that was quiet a shock. No doubt, that YunmengJiang was one of the great sects and was quiet well off. But hearing this, was a testament that Jiang Cheng had taken the legacy further and Yunmeng had flourished under his rule. All the Jiangs were just so proud of him, especially Jin Ling. But Jiang Cheng was still in awe of his future self. Though he still loathed his actions, but he was not aware of what all he had gone through.

With Lan WangJi’s actions, Jiang Cheng felt a whirlpool of anger at the bottom of his heart, rising higher by every second. He narrowed his eyes, his left hand casually stroking the ring on his right hand’s index finger. 

This was a dangerous sign. 

Everyone knew that the ring was a menacing, strong magical weapon. Whenever Clan Leader Jiang started touching it, it meant that he had the intent to kill.

They were all still in stupor after what they heard in the end. Jiang Cheng had in a wierd way cared and nurtured A-Ling it seemed. But what caught the Jiangs' attention was the ring on Jiang Cheng’s finger, from what they all had seen, Zidian was sitting there quite innocently. And that could only mean one thing. Either Madam Yu passed away or she had passed it on to Jian Cheng, but was still alive. They held hope for the latter to be true and didn't show any emotion, but Jin Ling was aware, but he just didn't want to dash their hope now, only for them to realize it later once again and be sad. He wanted it to be done with once and for all. So he kept his silence.