Premises: The story follows the Untamed until the night hunt on Phoenix Mountain. Wei Ying is disgusted by Lanling Jin Clan using war prisoners as practice targets and other sects allowing it. He says nothing, worrying about repercussions for Yunmeng Jiang. Determined not to be a part of it, Wei Ying refuses to participate in the hunt and silently walks away. He spent time reclining on the top branch of a tall tree, playing the simple melody on Chenqing.

As a result of the abuse Wei Ying suffered at Lotus Pier, he believes that he owes his life to them and would do everything in his power to protect Jiang's heirs. Wei Ying thinks Yanli genuinely cares about him since she would always console him and make soup after Madam Yu beat him up with Zidian.

Sorrow

In the name of justice. Respect for life. Peace. Righteous sects. Today he learned these were nothing but empty words. Meaningless phrases sects were throwing around to make themselves look good. An empty illusion. He could not believe they would conveniently look away from true injustice. For him, the war was over. There was no reason to abuse prisoners and use them for sects' amusement. It made him sick. It made him question everything. What was the reason behind sects' existence if not protecting the weak ones?

Gusu Lan looked uncomfortable but didn't question the morality of the opening ceremony. Qinghe Nie didn't seem to care – Nie Mingjue's hatred towards Wen seemed to justify everything. Only Nie Huaisang looked uncomfortable and gave him a begging look to do something. Jiang Cheng looked harshly at him from the balcony, ordering him not to make a mess. He cared about sect image more than anything else. It was disappointing and filled him with regrets. How foolish was it to sacrifice everything for someone who doesn't care about anyone but himself? The worst was Lanling Jin. Smug faces and an air of superiority. The sect that did not contribute to the war took all the spoils for themselves. It disgusted him.

"Please start the hunt now," Jin Guangyao announced with a fake smile. It was clear that Wei Wuxian's display of skills made him uncomfortable and ruined his plans. There was no point in holding a shooting competition if the second participant hit five targets while wearing a blindfold.

His jaw was tight as he tried to rein in his anger. He glanced at the standing beside him man in white, but his face looked cold and uncaring as usual. It was disappointing that even esteemed Hanguang-Jun wouldn't protest the mistreatment of prisoners. His grip on Chenqing tightened. He couldn't care less about the hunt and proving himself to a bunch of hypocrites. He could not afford to cause problems for Yunmeng Jiang... he owed them everything. Sometimes it felt suffocating to be unable to openly stand for what's right. But what someone like him could do? Nothing and countless scars from a spiritual weapon worked as a constant reminder. As long as someone there cared about him, he would never do anything to tarnish Yunmeng Jiang's image. All he had to do was to find a quiet corner of the forest and forget about the whole hunt.

Jin Zixun looked at him, displeased. A mocking challenge was written on his face, but Wei Wuxian was smarter than letting some buffoon provoke him. With a perfect smile plastered on his handsome face, he ignored rude remarks of Jin.

"What about covering your eyes through the whole hunt if you are so capable?" Jin Zixun mocked him.

"That's a deal," Wei Wuxian replied to end his blabbering. He had no intention of participating and didn't care about a winner.

Zixun huffed, then left with Lanling Jin's disciples. Wei Ying glanced at Lan Wangji with an awkward smile and followed the others.

As soon as they entered the hunting ground, Wei Wuxian separated from everyone. After a long walk, he found a perfect spot. Delicate sunrays played on his face while a gentle breeze brought calming freshness to his tired mind. One deep breath and the atrocities of the war were pushed away, shifting his attention to someone else. Someone he yearned for... wished to call his. "Impossible," Wei Ying whispered with a sad smile, lifting Chenqing to his lips. A beautiful melody traversed the forest. It carried his feelings. Longing for the one he loved... for the one he could not have.

Fate worked in mysterious ways. Wei Ying lowered the flute with a gentle smile, gazing at the person between the trees. His heart skipped a beat, smile widened. He was about to call out when a rather unpleasant memory flashed in front of his eyes.

"There are set rules in this world. I hope you won't be so self-centred since the people you care about are affected by your actions."

His smile faded away. His silver eyes dimed. Xichen had a way of telling him to stay away from his brother without sounding rude. Even without saying it loud, Wei Ying knew he wasn't worthy of great Hanguang-Jun. What was he thinking? Was he wrong to fall in love? All he wished for was to be able to stay by his side. Being his friend would be enough... being able to talk with him would be enough. Why wasn't he allowed to? It kept reaffirming Madam Yu's words. He was nothing more than a useless son of a servant... a bastard troublemaker ruining everything around him.

Suddenly, Lan Wangji stopped and looked straight at him. Unwittingly, Wei Ying smiled. The amber eyes with a unique golden hue were breathtaking, creating perfect harmony with his handsome face. Pristine white robes flowed effortlessly, reflecting his light steps. Everything about him was perfect.

"Lan Zhan... I heard you were busy," Wei Ying said, unable to restrain his smile. His presence was like magic and worked wonders, bringing clours to his meaningless life.

"I made progress in composing the music score and wanted to share it with you to see how it works."

His smile disappeared as an immense disappointment flashed in his silver eyes. Ever since his return from the Burial Mounds, Wangji never saw him for the person he was, as if he was utterly blinded by resentful energy. It seemed like their encounters just kept breaking his heart. Maybe it was better to let go? Distance himself? It was an unattainable dream... it was time to wake up and face reality. Hanguang-Jun was one of the most esteemed cultivators of their generation. At the same time, he was nothing more than Madam Yu's punching bag. Someone with no future and perspectives. Lan Zhan would never look at him with romantic feelings. 'How foolish...'

"Lan Wangji, who do you take me for? Can't you leave me alone?"

"Who do you take me for?" Lan Zhan retorted with the same question, leaving Wei Ying speechless.

Unable to bear the unreadable gaze of amber eyes, he looked away. His thoughts turned into a jumbled mess. Should he be honest or lie to avoid further complications? "I once treated you as my soulmate," Wei Ying said softly without looking at him.

The past tense made him feel uneasy. "I still am," he replied with all conviction he could muster as if Wangji tried to reassure both of them.

His eyes widened in surprise, and he finally looked at Wangji. Two golden amber orbs looked at him with a gentleness he had never seen before.

"Let me help you, Wei Ying."

A soft and pleading voice pulled all the strings within his heart. His gaze escaped towards Chenqing. It reminded him that accepting his help was impossible... he could no longer do what Wangji wished for him. "Lan Zhan... I...," he trailed off, hearing approaching them footsteps and pulled Wangji behind the bush.

Jiang Yanli and Jin Zixuan entered the area, engrossed in a hushed conversation. Yanli was blushing, looking at Zixuan with a gentle smile.

"Madam Jin is pushing for their marriage," Wei Ying whispered to his companion. "Especially now, when it's only Yanli and Jiang Cheng. Easier to manipulate, I guess."

Lan Wangji nodded. He wasn't interested in politics, but Wei Ying's words made sense. Jiang Cheng was too eager to please other leaders and prove himself, especially after the recognition Wei Ying received after the war. There were too many moments he noticed Sect Leader Jiang's jealousy towards his brother.

"This area is dangerous. There are still traces of Stature Measuring Snake here," Zixuan proposed, stretching his hand towards Yanli. "We should leave."

"What is it?"

The Jin Heir straightened out and patiently explained the origins of the snake. He sounded less arrogant than during the war. It seemed like he genuinely cared about his former fiancé.

"I hope no one will get hurt," Yanli said shyly.

"Getting hurt is the part of the fun," he replied. "Lanling Jin personal hunting grounds have many rare preys. I can take you there next month."

"I appreciate the invitation, but there is no need."

"Do you dislike the hunt?"

Yanli looked uncomfortable. She didn't enjoy the opening ceremony and would rather not experience something like this again. "Um... I...."

Jin Zixuan seemed to read her hesitation the wrong way and spoke with particular annoyance in his voice, "Do you dislike watching the hunt or being with me?"

He kept getting more agitated, while Yanli grew more shy and uncomfortable. It was an obvious misunderstanding. Wangji and Wei Ying looked at each other. Wouldn't it be better for them to step in and defuse the situation?

"I'm sorry," Yanli lowered her head and turned around to walk away. She loved and wished for him to work out their differences, but Lotus Pier needed her more. Jiang Cheng couldn't do it alone while Wei Wuxian didn't seem so reliable anymore. He would disappear for whole days without fulfilling his duties and leaving them to deal with everything. He definitely lacked her mother's discipline, but she didn't feel brave enough to say anything and invite unnecessary trouble.

His mother would scold him if Jiang Yanli was to return alone. Pressured by obligations to his family, Zixuan reached to stop her. Suddenly, there was a flurry of black, and his hand was deflected by dark as night flute. Wei Wuxian stood in front of his Shieje in a protective stance.

"Wei Wuxian, why must you disturb us!" he yelled angrily.

The encounter quickly escalated into a fight. It was common knowledge that Wei Wuxian and Jin Zixuan didn't like each other. Yanli staggered backwards, unsure what to do when Wangji intervened and stood between the men. His presence calmed them down, but more trouble was brewing on the horizon as a group of Jin disciples rushed in.

"Zixuan, did Wei Wuxian cause trouble again?" Jin Zixun asked arrogantly, standing by his cousin.

Wei Ying ignored them and turned to leave with Yanli, but Zixuan stopped them.

Unfortunately, the commotion attracted Madam Jin and several leaders from smaller sects. She rushed towards Yanli and gently grabbed her hand. "Why do you look so upset, dear?"

"I'm fine."

Madam Jin wasn't fooled by her smile and timid voice. She realised her son must have upset her again and scolded him.

"We will take our leave," Wei Ying said sternly. "I hope your son can stop bothering Yanli. There is no need for her to keep enduring his harsh words."

"How dare you speak like this to your senior!" Zixun roared, stepping closer to him. "Aren't you too proud? Always craving attention? Yunmeng Jiang captured thirty per cent of the prey. I'm sure that bastard cheated!"

"What do you mean?" Wangji asked, glaring at him. Wei Ying was in a remote location and didn't even seem to participate in the hunt.

"The hunt is still on," someone said. "But there is very little prey around. When we sought an explanation, Jing Guangyao told us about the sound of the flute coming from the mountain."

"Wei Wuxian, you are so selfish!" Jin Zixuan hissed. "Too proud to care for others?"

Amused by the ridiculousness of the situation, Wei Ying started to laugh. "All it matters in the hunt are capabilities. Are you trying to blame me for what you lack?"

"All you have are dirty tricks to control the prey!"

"I didn't play any dirty tricks," Wei Ying shrugged, then offered Chenqing to Zixun. "You are welcome to play the flute yourself and see if anything will follow you."

"You broke the rules!"

"Why don't you show me your capabilities?"

Zixun glared at him, then started to laugh and degrade Wuxian by accusing him of lack of manners. The latter completely ignored him. Jin Zixun clenched his fist and stepped into Wei Ying's face. "Yunmeng Jiang should learn more about discipline. Isn't it embarrassing to produce a demonic cultivator?"

His jaw tightened while old scars ached. He knew everything about discipline at Lotus Pier, more than anyone. Blamed for everything and punished severely with Zidian for even minor things. It became harder to control his anger, but as long as he could protect his siblings, Wei Ying didn't care what others said about him.

Wangji watched him worriedly. He was afraid Wei Ying would snap, and resentful energy would wreak havoc.

"How dare you ignore when someone superior to you speaks, mere son of a servant!" Zixun finally exploded.

Everyone, except for Wei Ying, flinched. The demonic cultivator stood frozen on the spot, trying to control his breathing. 'It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter,' he kept repeating like a mantra.

Lan Zhan grabbed his hand. "Wei Ying, concentrate."

Sandalwood surrounded him like a warm blanket, calming his mind. A faint smile spread over his lips while his muscles relaxed. It honestly didn't matter what others said about him, as long as he had this person by his side.

"A-Xian, apologise to everyone."

Wei Ying slowly turned around, looking at his precious Shijie in disbelief. Did he mishear her? Wasn't Yanli supposed to be the only person on his side?

"If you broke the rules, you should apologise. Don't bring shame to our home."

His heart shattered. Years of mistreatment and sacrifices to protect someone who abandoned him without asking for his side of the story. He endured everything for her... for her gentle smile and consoling words... for a sliver of hope that at least she saw him as family. Someone worth defending as he did for her. Was it all a lie? It made him realise that nothing hurts more than being disappointed by the single person you thought would never hurt you. He was too sad to cry or wail. He just stood there like a statue as the magnitude of his loss swept over him. He never felt so dead inside... so alone.

"Wei Ying?"

It was soft, barely audible. A gentle reminder there was a person who cared about him. What if this was also an illusion?

"Wangji, come here."

Xichen's voice was like a bucket of icy water, which instantly took away the warmth surrounding his wrist. Lan Wangji may have cared about him, but he would never choose him over esteemed sects. No one would ever stand by his side. There is only so much one can take before they snap...

"Brother, Wei...," Wangji started, but Lan Xichen raised his hand to silence him.

"A-Yao heard the flute, which confirms Jin Zixun's accusations. Besides, Master Wei refused to carry a sword, disregarding our rules," he explained, giving him a knowing look. "It's best to leave it to Lanling Jin and Yunmeng Jiang."

Wangji nodded, further shattering his already broken heart. Their words were like poison spreading inside his head. Wei Ying looked into golden amber eyes as if he tried to find his reflection, but all he saw were things he lacked. A silent confirmation he was nothing more but a mistake. He felt lost and confused. It was hard to breathe. Things that held him together vanished one by one. Home stopped feeling like home. Wei Ying never wished so badly to disappear... to vanish and never look back. A tiny voice inside his head kept telling him it was time to let go as there was nothing left to keep him here. He gave Yanli a disappointed look and bowed, showing the last ounce of respect he had for her. "As you wish, Miss Jiang. I officially leave Yunmeng Jiang to not further shame your esteemed sect with my lowly presence", he said, turned around and disappeared within the trees.

Yanli watched him, speechless. She never expected that Wei Wuxian wouldn't fulfil her request. She couldn't believe he would have the audacity to leave their sect after everything they had done for him.

"It's best to let him cool off," Madam Jin said, gently surrounding her shoulder and leading her towards the tea parlour. "Let men sort out their own mess."

"Of course," she replied quietly and left without looking back.

Hanguang-Jun wished to follow him and ensure Wei Ying was alright, but his brother stopped him.

"Master Wei is unstable and abandoned all reason, Wangji. I'm worried there is nothing more you can do for him. Do not break more rules and stray from the right path for him."

With a heavy heart, Lan Wangji remained by his brother's side. He couldn't openly ignore their rules. Maybe later, he could check on him and convince him to come to Gusu with him. Hide from everyone and keep safe.

****

It felt like the end of his world... his life was over. Yet, the wind kept blowing, and people kept bustling about on the busy streets of Lanling. It was another painful reminder of how little he mattered. Beaten up and heartbroken, Wei Ying tried to blend in. Disappear from everyone's sight. Maybe he should have died on the streets a long time ago? End everything and never look back? Yet, something deep within him refused to give up. Wei Ying would always push forward no matter how harsh his reality was. He may be damaged, but he couldn't stop now. Wei Wuxian was finally free of a burden on his shoulder. If only he could believe that even the darkest night is followed by the bright morning light. Maybe one day it won't hurt anymore? Maybe all this pain will be nothing more but an afterthought?

Lost in thoughts, Wei Ying did not notice a small woman in a ragged, red cape with a hood pulled over her face. As a result, they bumped into each other. "My bad, sorry," he said, reflexively catching her. "Huh? Wen Qing?"

"Wuxian?"

"What happened to you?" Wei Ying asked, carrying her to the side. She was covered in bruises and dirt.

Her eyes filled with tears, and her voice trembled as she explained to him what had happened to her family. After Wen Ruohan's death, Lanling Jin, with several small clans, rounded up everyone with the surname Wen and locked them in the labour camp. They didn't care that Dafan Wen was a distant branch and didn't participate in the war as it went against their beliefs as doctors and craftsmen. Her family lived to heal others and create something new, not kill and destroy.

"How can they be so cruel," he muttered in disbelief. "Do you know where they keep them?"

Wen Qing shook her head.

"Someone needs to know, right? Wei Ying asked, pulling her up. "If we can find them, are you ready to leave this shithole behind us?"

She looked at him and froze. Wei Wuxian never seemed so hollow... all light left his eyes, leaving a dead man walking. What has happened to him since the core transfer?

"Wei-Xiong! Wei-Xiong!" Nie Huaisang ran towards them, waving his fan for extra attention. He gripped Wei Ying's arms, bending to catch his breath. "I'm so glad I found you. I heard what happened during the hunt... the audacity," he added, unable to contain his anger. "How dare they treat you like this!"

"It doesn't matter," Wei Ying replied, patting his back.

"It does to me! You were always there when I needed a friend and helped me, risking punishment. Now it's time for me to do something in return. You are welcome to come and live in Qinghe. I will do everything I can to help you."

"You aren't staying at Lotus Pier after all you did for them?"

Wei Wuxian slowly shook his head while his eyes dimmed even further.

"Why?! What happened?!"

"Jin Zixun made baseless accusations towards Wei-Xiong. Instead of taking his side, Jiang Yanli demanded he apologised to a bunch of rude bastards. Even Da-Gege agreed that Wei-Xiong did nothing wrong and was upset with others calling him a servant's son. Da-Gege said that Changze was an esteemed cultivator while Cangse was the only daughter of the Immortal. It's an impressive linage, no matter how you look at it. Why would anyone think otherwise?"

He was shocked by Huaisang's outburst and unexpected support. It made him feel slightly better to have someone by his side... someone who genuinely cared. "Madam Yu forbade anyone from mentioning it and decided for me. She couldn't stand my parents and beat me up with Zidian till I accepted her opinion."

"That fucking bitch," Wen Qing and Nie Huaisang said simultaneously.

"Well, it's in the past now," he said with a faint smile. "And we have a bigger problem on our hands. Wen Qing's family is trapped somewhere in a labour camp. We need to rescue them."

"Leave it to me! I can easily find where they are, and no one will suspect shy and scared me about anything. Wait for me in the inn outside the city. It won't be long!" he added, rushing back.

"He is truly something," Wei Ying chuckled, helping her walk. It was wise to leave it to Nie Huaisang and not draw unnecessary attention.

The inn was small but full of tantalising aroma. They took one room and ordered a few delicate dishes for Wen Qing to recover her strength. It looked like she didn't eat for a long time and was about to pass out at any moment.

"Tell me about your life at Lotus Pier. I'm pretty sure it was far from the picture you painted for everyone."

Wei Ying sighed. He sat before her for a long time, pondering the answer. What could he say to her? How could he find words to even begin to explain? How does one describe their worst nightmare without bringing out the pain? Did he deserve what happened to him? Probably not. His only fault was to exist. Finally, he slowly untied his sash and turned around. As soon as his robes slid from his back, there was a loud gasp behind him.

"A-Ying... this is... horrible," Wen Qing said with a trembling voice. The lean back was covered in countless scars left by a spiritual weapon. She could not even imagine how much pain it caused him. He suffered torture at the hands of people who should care for him. "Is this why you refused to take off your robes during transfer? If I knew, I would never agree to it... A-Ying, they did not deserve anything you did for them."

"I believed I owe them everything," he said without turning around. "They offered me a home, food and the possibility to train. It came at a price... I don't even remember when I accepted her words and started to believe I deserved everything that happened to me. There were days I wished to leave and never return, but Yanli would be sad. She always offered a few consolation words and convinced me to stay with them. I thought she saw me as a family, but now... I'm not sure."

"You got it wrong," she said softly, pulling him into a warm hug. "A loving person would encourage you to leave and safe yourself. They wouldn't want to see you in pain."

"Maybe there is nothing worth loving about me?"

"It's not true. You are the most caring and selfless person I have ever met," Wen Qing said, smiling at him. "When you first met A-Ning, you didn't judge him like others. It meant a lot to me... but it would mean even more if you would start caring about yourself. I can't have my Didi pass out because he spent all his money on me."

"Your...," he trailed off, unable to hold back tears. No one ever called him like this or treated him with such gentle care as she did.

"From now until the end of time, you are our family and my little brother, so be prepared. If you don't care about yourself properly, I'll scold you till your ears fall off!" Wen Qing added, ruffling his hair. "Come, there is plenty of food for both of us."

"Thank you..."

"There is no need to thank me. It's only natural to care for one's family. Get used to it," she added with a cheeky smile, promising herself to protect him from everyone. Especially from people who abused, used and tossed him away like an old doll.

Shortly after their meal, Nie Huaisang returned with news that Dafan Wen were kept at Qiongqi Path under Jin's guard. "I was lucky and overheard Jin Zixun and Jin Guangyao talking about them. They are planning to use them for the hunt this evening. We need to hurry!"

"You did enough, A-Sang."

Huaisang shook his head. "My cultivation is low, and I don't know how to fight, but I can organise transport and supplies for you. We need a safe location...."

"We were thinking about going north and looking for my Grandmother."

"Then you are indeed in need of transport and supplies. Miss Wen, please tell me more about your family so I can prepare for them?"

"Mostly elderly, some doctors and craftsmen with several small children."

Their eyes widen in shock. "Did you say, children?!"

Wen Qing nodded. "There were six children in our village. They were in the transport our family helped me escape from. I pray nothing happened to them."

"We will rescue them, Qing-Jie."

"Let's split. I will meet you here," Huaisang pointed to a spot on the map at a safe distance from the camp. It's best if you won't leave survivors, Wei-Xiong. If we can do this unnoticed, there is no one to blame or chase after."

Wei Ying and Wen Qing nodded with understanding, then all three of them set off, wishing each other good luck. Moving such a large group posed various difficulties, but they were up for the challenge. Stakes were too high to let worries cloud their minds.

****

The afternoon sun hung as a massive fireball above the canyon, creating a warm atmosphere. Yet, two hooded persons carefully moved through the forest were tense. They decided to take the more secretive approach and first gauge the situation in the camp instead of blindly rushing in. Of course, it would be safer to act under cover of the night, but they couldn't risk waiting too long. Left with no other options, they used large rocks and shadows in the woods to conceal their presence.

Wei Ying jumped on the large rock directly above the camp, then helped Wen Qing climb it. It was a perfect spot to survey their surroundings. They peaked down, and their blood turned cold. A handful of the guards abused and pushed chained prisoners beyond their limits. The elderly were covered in bruises, barely moving. Others weren't in a much better state.

"Despicable," Wei Ying hissed, tightening his grip on Chenqing. "Do you see A-Ning?"

Wen Qing squinted. "I'm not sure."

"Maybe he is underneath us?"

"I hope so... but what if we are...."

"We are not too late, Jiejie," Wei Ying said confidently. "I can't use Chenqing. It's too risky, but let me try what a simple whistle can do. It should be enough to create an opening for us. Can you slide down from here?"

Wen Qing nodded. It was a bit high, but the slope was relatively gentle. "We should escape with minor scratches. Ready?"

Wuxian nodded and whistled an eerie melody. Black shadows rushed towards guards, leaving them petrified. Soldiers crumbled to the ground with desperate wails and screams while prisoners looked at them, confused. They appeared to be trapped in some kind of nightmare. Meanwhile, the duo dashed towards the camp, quickly dispatching opponents. Neither of them cared about glorious and honourable fights. Instead, they moved swiftly with daggers and slit disciples' throats. With the last man down, they removed hoods and masks, bringing relief to their family.

"I knew you would come back for us, A-Qing," Granny rushed towards them with a bundle on her back. "But who is this?"

"This is your newest grandson, A-Ying."

"Qing-Jie, it's...."

Granny walked to him with a warm smile and pulled the shocked demonic cultivator into a thigh hug. "Welcome to the family, A-Ying."

"Mm," he muttered, choking on tears.

"We must gather everyone and leave," Wen Qing disturbed the heartwarming moment with a heavy heart. How badly did Jiang starve him for family and warmth that he completely broke down at genuine love and care? 'I'm never leaving you alone, Didi.'

Granny nodded. "I will call, A-Ning. He is inside looking after the wounded and unable to walk."

Wen Qing and Wei Ying breathed out a sigh of relief. Despite hopes and conviction, they were both anxious about his safety.

"Qing-Jie! Master Wei!" Wen Ning called, running. "I'm so glad you are safe!"

A beautiful smile lit up her face as she pulled her brothers into a tight hug. "We are family now, A-Ning. A-Ying is your Gege or Da-Gege."

"Aren't Yunmeng Jiang your family, Ying-Ge?"

"Don't mention these selfish bastards in front of our brother. They aren't worthy of being his family."

Wen Ning nodded, then said shyly, "I always wanted an older brother."

"So, older sister is not enough?" Wen Qing teased him.

Wei Ying tightened the hug and genuinely smiled for the first time in years. He never felt so accepted... he couldn't remember what being loved felt like. Yet, they smashed all his walls and pulled him out of the dark place he had spent most of his life. "I always wanted a family," he said quietly.

Soon the group of fifty prisoners stood in front of them. They were starved and beaten up, but their eyes shone with strength and hope. Children didn't seem to understand what was happening, but they instantly liked the new Gege. They were swinging on his arms while the rest was gathering everything and organising transport for a few unable to move elderly.

The march was slow and exhausting, but they didn't leave anyone behind. The sun was setting on the horizon when they spotted anxiously awaiting them Nie Huisang with several carts and an ample supply of clothing and food. Large steaming pots were placed over several bonfires surrounded by makeshift benches. His face paled when he saw small children and wounded elderly. His men rushed towards them, offering medical assistance and a warm meal. Most of the prisoners had tears in their eyes.

"Wei-Xiong... this is...," his voice broke. "What crimes children and elderly carry to treat them like this? I can't believe Da-Gege allowed it. Unforgivable!"

"Maybe he didn't know, A-Sang?"

"How can he not know?! Doesn't he participate in all these neverending conferences? Isn't our duty to protect the weak and innocent?! Children! Wei-Xiong, they're just children," Nie Huaisang broke down crying, seeing their malnourished and bruised bodies. "Bring more blankets and clear their wounds," he ordered through tears.

"Thank you, Master Nie," Uncle Four and several elders approached him. "We didn't believe any good people left in this world. Thank you, A-Ying and Master Nie, for proving as wrong... for saving us."

"There is no need," Wei Ying replied. "It was the right thing to do. Once everyone rests, we will move farther north."

Wen Qing was busy with the wounded with the assistance of Nie healers, leaving Wei Ying and Huaisang to plan their next steps. The latter agreed to talk with his brother to learn how much Nie Mingjue knew about camps.

"I think Jin Guangshan and his bastard son hide a lot from sects. The opening ceremony came as a surprise to everyone, even Jin Zixuan and Madam Jin. They looked highly uncomfortable."

Wei Ying nodded. "They were too eager to deal with war prisoners, and due to limited resources, other sects just left it to them. Jin Guangshan asked about Yin Hufu multiple times, suggesting I should give it to them since it's so dangerous. They clearly try to gather more power."

"It would be dangerous in their hands," Huaisang huffed. "There is something at play behind the scenes, and I intend to discover it."

"I'm counting on you, but be careful. We don't know who can be trusted."

"Honestly? Right now, you are the only person I trust," he replied with a sad smile. "I thought Lan Wangji could be on our side, but I guess rules are more important than the suffering of the innocent. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have mentioned him," Huaisang added, seeing Wei Ying's heartbroken expression.

"It hurts, you know? I feel like an idiot for chasing after him," Wuxian chuckled desperately. "For a moment, I even believed him that he saw me as his soulmate and offered help. I thought he cared, but as soon as things became inconvenient... he stood by his brother and their rules. I'm so fucking stupid," he muttered, hiding his face in his hands.

Huaisang gently surrounded his shoulders and pulled closer. "No, you are not. It's him who made a mistake, and one day, he will regret it. Then I will take revenge in your place and rub it in his face."

Wuxian laughed unwittingly. "Thank you, A-Sang, but are you sure you don't want to leave with us?"

"Someone needs to stay here and keep an eye on them. Besides, I can't just leave my network behind, but once you settle in, find a way for us to communicate. I will miss you, Wei-Xiong."

"Promise me you will be careful and send the message as soon as you sense troubles. I will come no matter what it takes."

"I know."

Wei Ying stood up and started to walk towards the central bonfire when full of conviction voice stopped him.

"I know it hurts like hell now, but he isn't worth it. I'm sure your true soulmate is waiting for you out there, and he will always choose you over anything else. Once you meet him, enjoy it to the fullest and be happy."

Without turning around, Wuxian raised his hand and waved with acknowledgement. Huaisang was right. It hurt beyond imagination, and every breath felt like torture, but he didn't have time to feel sorry for himself. They had to find a safe place to settle in and build a life for themselves away from sects.

****

Mountain air was fresh and rejuvenating while rising on the horizon sun consoled his broken heart. Silver eyes gazed at sect territories below the mountain peak with mixed feelings. The last look at the place they called home for many years. A home they were forced to abandon. It was never meant to end like this. Yet, there were no regrets.

"We are ready to descend, Didi."

"Mm," Wei Ying hummed as he turned around and walked away without looking back.

The last few days taught him an important lesson. The world doesn't end because someone broke your heart. It continues on, giving you a chance to let go and heal. He slowly started to believe that one day these feelings would disappear like snow after a long winter. A faint smile played on his lips as soundless "farewell" left them.

A/N: I would like to thank @nehagoswami745 for sharing with me an idea for this story and encouraging me to write it. I hope you will enjoy it.