Disclaimer: I do not own the characters and art used in the story. OOC and AU.

Premises: The story follows the donghua and its character design. After Lotus Pier fall, Wei Ying gives his golden core to Jiang Cheng. During the trip down the mountain, he's captured by Wen Chao and thrown into Burial Mounds. Lan Zhan was the only one looking for him.

Wei Ying was abused by Madam Yu and often punished with Zidian. Jiang Fengmian ignored the issue, while Yanli would make excuses for her mother. Jiang Cheng is just a jealous asshole. After reading the novel and watching donghua and The Untamed, I can't bring myself to like Jiangs. They all are toxic to me.

****

Weak and sluggish. These weren't words he would use to describe himself, yet it was his new reality. After two days of excruciating pain, he was spread too thin as if something inside of him was ready to snap. Lost in his thoughts, he missed multiple footsteps and voices full of hatred. A sword coming out of his chest came as a surprise. Someone pushed him to the ground, and others held him captive. A sea of red filled his vision.

"Isn't my lucky day," a high pitched voice exclaimed. "Where are Jiang siblings?"

Wei Ying shrugged without looking at Wen Chao. He would sooner die than sell his siblings. He was bound to keep them safe even if it killed him. His body seemed numb to torture, and he remained unmoved, aggravating Wen Chao.

"Devotion is a funny thing, isn't it?" Second Master Wen said, crouching in front of him. "You would willingly give up your life for them, but they couldn't care less about you. They even blamed you for the attack," he laughed. "Surprise, it wasn't your fault. My father wanted Lotus Pier. His plans have nothing with you. Even the blind could see it, but your so-called family was first to blame you. I heard Zidian is painful, but you know it better than anyone. How long were you her punching bag?"

Wei Ying's gaze lost its defiance as unmeasurable sadness swirled in it. As much as he hated him, Wen Chao was right.

"You are the only one who thinks of them as family. For them, you are nothing but a bodyguard and shield for their children. Someone they can blame for their own shortcomings, yet you keep protecting them. Why? What do you owe your abusers? Nothing."

It sunk and hit hard. The truth is always painful, but Wen Chao's words hit home. Neither Madam Yu nor Jiang Fengmian told him to be safe. They only asked him to protect their children at the cost of his life. He was disposable. A regret crept in. He gave them everything but never received anything in return. A burst of desperate laughter rang through the forest.

"So, where are they?"

"Fuck you," Wei Ying hissed. They may have mistreated them, but he wouldn't sell out anyone to Qishan Wen. Not even the worst enemy.

"Wrong answer!"

A strong kick landed on his stomach. Without a golden core to protect him, Wei Ying flew a few feet backwards. He bit his inner cheek to muffle a painful groan to not give them satisfaction. Two soldiers dragged him up and pressed a sword against his neck.

"Aren't you afraid of death?"

Wei Ying smirked. "I'm afraid I won't die."

Another kick cracked his ribs and tore the abdomen wound open. "Give me what I want, and maybe you will get to live."

"Fuck you," he repeated. "Go ahead, kill me. I will return to haunt the whole Qishan and make your life utter shit."

****

The time perception during freefall was interesting. His body could feel an immense speed, but his mind remained calm as if time wasn't passing at all. Wei Ying smiled. He was finally free. Imprinted by Jiang, guilt disappeared. He had already given them everything. If he somehow lived through it, Wei Ying decided to leave the sect and live the life he wanted.

When he was about to hit the ground, the resentment caught him. Despite harsh surroundings, for the first time in his life, Wei Ying felt welcomed. Resentful energy patched him up. It healed his wounds and broken ribs. He could feel it swirling inside his dantian as if it wanted to replace his missing core. Then it brought voices, loneliness and despair. He could feel the pain of spirits trapped in the Burial Mounds. He could relate to them. They all were unwanted.

"If I stay with you, will you stay with me?"

****

Days blended together as he lost track of time. His senses were overwhelmed by the sadness of Burial Mounds. Spirits tried to ease the burden, but it was too much even for them. Their collective consciousness was like an endless abyss of suffering. Wei Ying struggled to move, slowly losing the will to live. Then concerned spirits brought a new voice.

"Where is Wei Ying?!"

The voice was a mixture of pain, anger and worry. There was one person outside who looked for him. One person who seemed to care.

"...dead... alive... there must... trace of...."

Sometimes it couldn't be heard clearly, but it was there. Relentlessly looking for him. It started with a flickering flame of hope which ignited his will to live. Wei Ying rose to his feet. Burial Mounds cared for him, and he wanted to return a favour. Ease their pain and help them find peace. That day Chenqing was born.

"I... find him!"

Each day the voice brought new hope and strength to go on. He couldn't recognise it, but it would always ignite a warm feeling in his heart. Sometimes it felt like he knew it. Like it belonged to someone important.

"...miss... so much...."

Listening to the voice he grew fond of, Wei Ying grew stronger. A new red core swirled in his dantian, giving back what he lost. Spirits helped him understand his past and let go. Wei Ying didn't owe anything to anyone. They taught him that one must take care of himself to help others. With their help, he cultivated the sword from Xuanwu cave into Yin Hufu, an amulet to cleanse Burial Mounds. He kept developing music scores to repay spirits' kindness and help them find peace. They became his family.

"...come back... please."

Burial Mounds became his home. Wei Ying created a barrier to hide disappearing resentment, to protect spirits who wished to remain with him. Yet a feeling to leave and search for the voice's owner grew stronger. He could feel their encouragement, a gentle push to step outside and find him. A person who never gave up on him.

"Wei Ying!"

"Lan Zhan," a soft whisper escaped his lips. Suddenly, everything became clear. Wei Ying loved his home and new family, but he loved him more than anything. Even if Lan Zhan would never return his feelings, he would be there for him. Protect him from Wen Ruohan's grasp. He was more than aware of the situation outside as new spirits flooded Burial Mounds looking for sanctuary. Innocent victims of Wen Chao and Qishan Wen expansion. He would put an end to this. He would protect his Lan Zhan.

****

Months of playing inquiry and following every single rumour brought nothing. As if Wei Ying vanished from the surface of the earth. He reached a breaking point. As soon as he entered the tent, his legs gave in, and he fell to his knees. Wangji pressed a sword in a wooden scabbard to his chest and let the tears flow. "Where are you, Wei Ying?"

He tried not to lose hope, but each day was a struggle. Regret was eating him up from the inside. Would it end differently if he would stay by his side? Would Wei Ying be still here if he had the courage to confess his feelings? Wangji no longer cared if others would understand or mock him for being a cut-sleeve. He would give up the whole world for a chance to see him again.

With a full moon as a companion, Wangji sat underneath a plum tree and, as usual, played inquiry. In recent months, he came to ignore rules. Who had time for sleep when Wei Ying was missing? His heart was heavy. A small flame of hope was burning out. He needed something to hold on to, anything. Suddenly, strings moved.

"Run!"

Wangji looked with confusion at his guqin.

"They are coming!"

He rose to his feet and dashed towards the camp. The night sky burned red with flaming arrows flying towards the encampment. Waves of soldiers and puppets followed. Cultivators were overpowered by the sheer numbers of their opponents. The cackling laughter of Wen Chao rang through the night like torture, a promise they won't live to see the morning.

The strings were broken, his arms too tired to lift a sword. After hours of fighting, Wangji fell to his knees. "I'm sorry, Wei Ying."

Suddenly an eerie melody cut through the sounds of battle, and the flames around him turned green. Black mist flooded the area, turning their puppets against Wen. Wen soldiers started to fall one by one, just to rise up and continue to fight against their former companions. The battlefield was engulfed in chaos.

Wangji scanned the area for the source of music. Finally, he spotted someone on the rooftop on the far side of the camp. Resentment swirled around him as if trying to protect the man. His long black hair and the loose dark as night robes fluttered in the wind.

Then everything became silent and still. Most allied cultivators escaped under Jiang Cheng's leadership, leaving only three people in the camp. Lan Wangji, Wen Chao and Wen Zhuliu. The Core-melting hand stood in front of his Master in a protective stance.

The stranger in black took a step forward, then leisurely walked down as if there were invisible steps underneath his feet. The puppets remained still at his command as he approached Wen Chao.

From his steps, Wangji could tell it was a young man. His face was hidden behind several loose strands framing it. In his right hand, he held a flute dark as resentment itself. Each step carried immense confidence and strength. The stranger most likely was a friend, despite his unorthodox cultivation. Wangji supported his weight on Bichen and slowly stood up.

"Who the hell are you?" Wen Chao screamed, hiding behind his bodyguard. "Casting such nasty demonic spells!"

After taking several more steps, the stranger stopped a few feet from Second Master Wen. The man lifted his left hand, playfully swirling resentful energy around his slender fingers. "Wen Chao, we meet again. I told you I would come back for you."

His voice was low and icy cold, yet familiar.

"Who are you?!"

"Core-melting hand, do you think you can protect this pathetic worm from me?" he asked, without looking at his opponents. His gaze was focused on swirling around his palm resentment.

"I will die trying!" Wen Zhuliu replied as he lunged at the man.

The crimson red eye gleamed dangerously, and with the simple wave of his hand, the stranger sent Wen Zhuliu flying. Then he lifted his flute. Resentful energy surrounded Zhuliu's body, crushing his bones. "What a loyal dog."

The Core-melting hand struggled to breathe. His body was suspended in the air and torn by immense pain. "I need to repay the debt of gratitude to the Sect Leader."

The resentment flared up. The gaze of crimson red eyes turned deadly. "Why is that your debt has to be repaid at the expense of the innocent?!"

Wangji could only watch the scene, unable to move. He didn't even realise he was holding his breath. This voice was so alien yet familiar. Who was this man? And what did Wen Chao do to bring upon himself his vengeance?

Resentment from the puppet was drawn towards his left palm. The man hissed Zhuliu's title, then slightly closed his fist. In response, Wen screamed in pain as his limbs were twisted and crushed.

Lan Zhan could not believe how one person could hold so much control over the whole area, over another human being. The stranger barely moved, yet the Core-Melting hand was powerless. Wangji watched him fall to his knees. The stranger stepped closer, then lifted his hand, and resentment pulled Zhuliu's body up. Wangji's eyes shoot wide open. The stranger disappeared as if he was made out of resentment, and then he was behind Zhuliu with a golden core in his hand. Wen's body fell to the ground as his core was crushed between slender fingers. It was an astonishing display of power. Where did this man come from?

"Who the hell are you?" Wen Chao stammered, cowering by the wall.

The man walked past Wen Zhuliu's body and lifted his head. Crimson red eyes were glowing dangerously while green flames illuminated his handsome face.

Wangji gasped. "Wei... Ying..."

"Impossible! Impossible!" Wen Chao started to scream in panic and then jumped to his feet in an attempt to run. "Ghost!"

Wei Ying smirked. With a simple move of his wrist, he sent a fierce female corpse after Wen Chao. The Second Master Wen tried to threaten him with his father, but Wei Ying remained unmoved. Wen Chao kept squirming and screaming while the corpse consumed him. Meanwhile, Wei Ying lifted his flute, pulling all resentment from the area into it. Another eerie melody summoned black spikes from the ground and tore Wen Chao and his former lover to the dust. Once they were gone, the tune changed. It was calm and peaceful.

Wei Ying lowered Chenqing with a gentle smile. The spirits of the soldiers killed during the battle and the ones trapped in the puppets were free. Yet, he felt uneasy. Gusu Lan resented demonic cultivators. Lan Wangji would hate him even more. But it was a small price to pay for his safety. His Lan Zhan was safe; nothing else mattered. He listened to the rushed footsteps beside him, unable to turn and look at the person he loved the most. He wasn't ready to face hatred written in golden orbs. Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around him and pulled him into a tight embrace.

"I thought I lost you...."

Wei Ying froze. He was sure Wangji hated and resented him for being an embodiment of bothersome annoyance. Why was he hugging him as if his life depended on it? Why his shoulder was wet? "Lan Zhan?"

"Please, don't ever disappear like this."

His gaze softened. "I won't."

****

They were outside the camp, underneath the plum tree, watching soldiers returning and rebuilding everything. None of them knew what to say, despite thousands of questions swirling in their minds. Suddenly, Wangji pulled a jar of Emperor Smile from his qiankun sleeve and handed it to Wei Ying.

"Lan Zhan?"

"To celebrate your return."

It has been months since he drank wine. It made him wonder if it tastes the same if you don't drink to forget or numb the pain from Zidian. He took a sip and smiled. The Emperor Smile tasted better than he remembered. "Aren't you going to ask about it?"

"Is Wei Ying willing to talk?"

He wasn't sure how to explain everything. Would Lan Zhan believe him? Understand his choices? His regrets?

Wangji could sense his uneasiness. He couldn't even imagine what must have happened to Wei Ying, the reasons behind demonic cultivation. He was worried that rumours about Burial Mounds were true. But none of this mattered. Wei Ying was back. The person he loved since a night they spared on rooftops of Cloud Recesses. Wangji reached into his sleeve again and pulled out a sword in a wooden scabbard. "I held onto it, hoping I would find its owner one day."

"I missed you, old friend," Wei Ying whispered, caressing the engraved name, then unsheathed Suibian. The blade glowed red, accepting his new core. He could feel the power surging through him. "Thank you."

Wangji watched the sword curiously. "Why the red glow?"

Unsure how to answer, Wei Ying moved his hand through the soft grass. He missed it. The Burial Mounds were bare, yet he felt safer there. His fingers accidentally brushed over Wangji's. It felt warm and inviting. He didn't know what possessed him to do it, but before he noticed, his fingers were laced with Wangji's.

A small and intimate gesture surprised him, but it felt right. Lan Zhan glanced at his companion and smiled. Wei Ying seemed to be as surprised as him.

"Sorry, I don't know what came over me," he muttered, trying to pull away from his hand, but Wangji stopped him. "Lan Zhan?"

"What happened to you?" Wangji finally asked, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze.

Encouraged by surrounding spirits, Wei Ying told him everything. The truth about the core transfer and the reasons behind it. He could feel Wangji's anger when he spoke about his childhood and abuse. Then his relief when he told him about spirits in Burial Mounds and their help. "I will officially leave Yungmen Jiang and return to my home today. Um... would you like to visit? It isn't much... but...."

"I will."

"Lan Zhan... thank you for not giving up on me. When I was feeling lost, your voice kept me going. Spirits carried your inquiry to me. Sometimes just broken sentences, but they hoped it will help me," added, seeing Wangji's confusion. "I can't believe I thought you hated me."

"I'm sorry," Wangji replied, then shifted to face Wei Ying. Feeling a sudden surge of courage, he gently caressed his cheek, then leaned closer and kissed him. Their lips moved slowly in sync as if it was the most natural thing to kiss each other. "I could never hate you," he said softly. "I just didn't know what to do with these sudden feelings. The moment we heard the news about your disappearance and rumours about Burial Mounds, I promised to never leave you alone when you return. Even if you don't want me, I will stay by your side."

"Lan Zhan... I'm a demonic cultivator now, don't throw everything for me."

"I would rather lose everything than you... Who cares about your cultivation? You are still the same person, still doing your best to protect innocent. I love you, Wei Ying. I love every part of you."

His heart accelerated dangerously. If this was a dream, he wished to never wake up. "For a long time, I couldn't recognise your voice. I just had this nagging feeling it was important... that the person behind it was important. Then one day, I heard you calling my name, and I understood why I tried so hard to stay alive. I had to see the person I loved the most for the last time. I had to see you," he added, leaning for another kiss.

They were lost in the softness of the dawn, and their lips joined together. The whole world could burn for all they cared.

****

In the late morning, they approached the main tent. There have been a lot of questions and loud voices discussing the recent attack. Wangji was about to raise the curtain when a slender hand stopped him.

"Are you sure it's a good idea?" he whispered, shifting behind Wangji.

Lan Zhan nodded. "Wei Ying defeated everyone and saved the camp. He..."

A loud voice from the inside cut him off. "WHO CARES ABOUT THAT USELESS BRAT?! HE BROUGHT RUIN TO MY CLAN! HE CAN ROT IN HELL FOR ALL I CARE!"

"Sect Leader Jiang," Lan Xichen started softly, trying to calm him down. "Master Wei can't be responsible for the attack on Lotus Pier. Wen Ruohan reaches everywhere."

"Sect Leader Lan, why defend the useless son of a servant? Is it because of your brother?" he replied mockingly.

"Wei-Xiong is not the son of a servant!" Huaisang yelled angrily. "His father was a renowned cultivator, and his mother was the only daughter of Immortal Baoshan Sanren. Did you forget about it, Sect Leader Jiang?" he hissed, slamming his hands on the table.

"Hmph, I'm not planning to waste resources searching for him."

Wangji clenched his fists. His icy glare was full of hatred. He pushed the curtain and walked inside, pulling Wei Ying with him. "No need."

"Wei-Xiong!" Huaisang exclaimed and jumped at his friend, giving him a tight hug. "I've been worried sick about you. There were rumours...."

"It's true. Wen Chao threw Wei Ying into Burial Mounds because he wouldn't sell out his so-called family."

"Lan Zhan, don't...."

"They must know! You defeated the whole army while Sect Leader Jiang escaped with his tail between his legs."

Wuxian couldn't help and burst out laughing. "Lan Zhan, I can't believe you said that."

Most people gathered in the tent stifled laughter. Some of them chuckled openly, but no one expected to hear such a mocking insult coming from an esteemed Hanguang-Jun.

Jiang Cheng sputtered angrily. He had to say something to save his face, shift his attention somewhere else. "At least you have enough decency to take revenge for my family."

"Huh?" Wei Ying's eyebrow cocked. He looked confused. "I had three reasons to come after Wen Chao, but none of them is Jiang Sect. First, Wen Chao threatened the only alive person I care about. Second, to bring peace to his innocent victims. And last, for what he did to me. Although I do owe him for opening my eyes."

"HOW DARE YOU?!" Jiang Cheng roared while Zidian sparkled on his finger. "IS THIS HOW YOU TREAT YOUR SUPERIOR?!"

Wuxian's calm demeanour did not change. He was tired. Controlling and cleansing the battlefield took its toll on him, confronting his former brother even more. Wei Ying just wished to rest, stay somewhere no one could bother him. "I'm no longer part of Yunmeng Jiang and don't owe you shit. Since we sorted it out, I'm going back home."

"Wei..." Wangji tried to stop him, but Wuxian simply vanished.

A stunned silence fell over the tent. It wasn't cheerful and forgiving Wei Wuxian they knew. Silver eyes carried the coldness of the moon, while his posture expressed an immense strength. They were shocked he teleported without a talisman or an incantation. They couldn't help but wonder what had happened to Wei Wuxian in the three months he was missing. Everyone looked at Wangji for an explanation.

"Wangji, did Master Wei tell you anything?" Xichen asked, approaching his brother.

Unable to lie, Lan Zhan nodded. He wasn't sure how much was he allowed to disclose. Wangji didn't want to betray Wei Ying's trust.

The First Jade could read his brother easily and understood his position. "Can you tell us what happened during the battle?"

Sect Leaders were astonished to hear about Wuxian's control over the battlefield and resentment. Unfortunately, some started to condemn him for following the forbidden path.

"Wei Ying is not evil! After the battle, he released all the spirits and brought them peace. How is it evil?!" Wangji demanded, glaring at people badmouthing his love.

"What do you mean, Wangji?"

"Wei Ying doesn't control resentment the way you think. It comes to his aid because he cares about spirits trapped within, and they care about him."

****

As soon as his feet landed on the bare ground of Burial Mounds, a wave of relief washed over him. He took a deep breath and smiled. The air felt clearer, and warm sun rays played on his face. A few trees near his cave had tiny green buds. The Burial Mounds were waking up.

"You worked hard," Wei Ying whispered softly, then disappeared inside his home.

The Demon Slaughtering Cave was empty but for a rock slab used as a bed and a small bonfire with a pot hanging over it. Yet it felt more like home than any other place he stayed in.

****

Ever since she heard rumours that he survived, Wen Qing felt relieved. He was like a brother to her and A-Ning. Never judged them or condemned them for their family name. She glanced back at following her farmers and healers. They were tired and scared, but Wen Ruohan didn't leave them a choice. After Wen Chao's death, he became more unstable and demanding. They could either join him or die. She chose the third option to run and seek help. Burial Mounds loomed on the horizon, swirling resentment sent a shiver down her spine. Was it really true that Wei Ying was there?

He was engrossed in another experiment when he sensed a commotion within spirits. A group of fifty people was approaching his home. They had no ill intentions, just fear accompanying their steps. Then he felt two familiar spiritual energies and rushed to the border.

"Are you sure it's safe to go there, A-Qing?" Granny Wen asked, cradling Yuan to her chest.

Wen Qing nodded. "I'm sure once we find him, you will be safe," she said, trying to convince herself. After all, he had no reason to risk and help them.

"No need," a calm but cheerful voice said. "I'm already here."

"I'm sorry to bother you...."

"What are you waiting for? I don't have much, but it's enough to share," Wei Ying beckoned them to follow.

They were shocked. Burial Mounds looked completely different than they expected. Behind the thick wall of resentment was a spring in full bloom. Trees were covered in delicate green lives, and patches of juicy grass shined between boulders. The deeper they went, the more surprised they were. Close to the central mountain was a small waterfall and crystal clear stream, greenery was lush and vibrant.

"How is it possible?" Wen Qing asked, looking confused around.

"I cleansed it during my first two months, then Burial Mounds did the rest. This place is full of hardworking and kind spirits. You will feel here at home in no time."

"Home?"

"Isn't why you came here? To seek a safe home?"

Wen Qing looked at him sheepishly. "I was planning to ask you first... but this is so you. Shame there aren't more people like you... to care about others without expecting anything in return."

****

Another three months without Wei Ying were like torture. Still, between battles and the reconstruction of his home, Wangji barely had any time to spare. They had the upper hand in taking down supervisory offices, but the main battle was a different story. Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue decided to ask Wei Wuxian for help. They sent Wangji to Yiling with an official request.

He walked busy streets, surrounded by various stalls. One of them was selling talismans created by Yiling Patriarch. Wangji smiled, recognising the handwriting. Seemed like Wei Ying indeed found his home here. Townsfolk shared favourable rumours about a young man and healers from Burial Mounds.

Suddenly something barreled into his legs, and a loud wail drew his attention to the ground. Wangji looked at the toddler with panic. People started to accuse him of being a lousy father and offering advice on how to treat a child. His internal panic grew, paralysing him. Then he heard it. The laughter he grew to love more than life itself.

A young man in loose black robes crouched and picked up the boy. "What did you do to make him cry, Lan Zhan?"

"Nothing."

"Don't cry, A-Yuan. This scary man is your Gege's..." he hesitated but then smiled gently. "Most important person in the world."

His ears were burning. Moved by Wei Ying's words, he pulled him into a warm embrace. A-Yuan squirmed between them in delight. "I missed you."

Feeling bad for making the little boy cry, Wangji bought him a bunch of toys and sweets, earning a nickname: Rich Gege. They had a nice lunch at the inn and shared information about the war. Wangji was surprised Wei Ying knew everything.

"I always watch over you."

"What do you mean?"

Wei Ying scratched the back of his head, trying to hide embarrassment. "My most trusted friends are following you and making sure you are safe."

"I would rather have you by my side," he replied, feeling burning heat in his ears.

"I'm sorry, I was busy and couldn't leave the Mounds. Two months ago, a group of farmers and healers sought refuge in Burial Mounds. I couldn't send them away, and suddenly I gained a bigger family to look after. We are still constructing homes and planting seeds."

Wangji placed a couple of silver coins on the table, grabbed A-Yuan and pulled Wei Ying with him. He dragged them to different stores buying seeds, fabrics, medicines, and household items till his qiankun pouch was full.

"Here," he said, passing the pouch to Wei Ying.

"Lan Zhan, I can't take all of it...."

"I want to help Wei Ying," he insisted. "Wei Ying can't look alone after so many people. I will help. Wei Ying's family is my family."

His heart warmed. "Do you want me to fall for you even more, Lan Zhan?"

"Mm."

Wuxian leaned closer and pecked him on the cheek. "Come, I will introduce you to everyone."

****

He finally understood why Wei Ying called it home, why he called them family. The Burial Mounds were a tranquil place full of love and laughter. Everyone worked hard, but they looked happy. There was a cheerfulness in the air that Cloud Recesses lacked. It was enchanting. Wangji wished to never leave.

The refugees weren't only skilled healers and farmers but also craftsmen. Houses looked simple but sturdy. They had a large communal kitchen, which Wei Ying was banned from and a massive dining area in the first room of the cave. It was the first time Wangji had participated in a happy and exciting meal.

Suddenly he noticed that Wei Ying and Wen Qing were missing. Someone pointed him at the curtain in the back of the room. It led to Wei Ying's quarters.

"How much energy did you use today?"

Wangji heard a scolding voice from the other side. Eavesdropping was forbidden, but he wasn't in Gusu, and Wei Ying would never openly admit that something was wrong.

"I'm fine."

"Fine, my ass! Didn't you notice blood pouring from your nose?!" she yelled, and then there was a loud slap on the back of someone's head. "You can't keep pushing yourself past limits so often! Even your core can't keep up anymore."

"Just a bit more, Qing-Jie. I will be fine."

There was a soft shuffle, and her voice came more muffled. Wangji figured that Wei Ying must have hugged her. "I can't let anything happen to you, Didi. Leave Yin Iron and Ruohan to the sects. Do you want to be the first Immortal who died because you depleted your lifeforce?"

"You know they are powerless against it, but if I can cleanse it day by day, it will shatter on its own. No one will know it was me, and we will be safe."

"But at what cost?! Do you think I didn't notice you grew weaker? Whom do you think this fake smile can trick?!"

"Jieje..."

"I know it's hard to get used to having people who care about your well-being, but you need to understand we care more about you than anything else," she cut him off. "As your older sister and personal doctor, I order you a week of break. Are you going to take it willingly, or should I use this?"

Wangji did not know what she planned to use, but Wei Ying's terrified shriek said it all. It must have been a ferocious device of torture.

"I will rest, okay?"

"Just to make sure, I will have a lovely conversation with your boyfriend and ask him to watch over you."

"No need. Lan Zhan already knows," Wei Ying said, then waved his hand, and the curtain fluttered, revealing shocked Wangji.

"Perfect, I leave this idiot in your capable hands, Hanguang-Jun," Wen Qing cheered, then left the room. "Oh, don't forget the privacy talisman. We have children here."

"Jieje!" Wei Ying yelled, throwing a pillow at her. "Lan Zhan, don't listen to her...."

Wangji did not let him finish. He pulled him close and kissed him deeply. The kiss was a mixture of love and desperation, worry and silent anger.

"Lan Zhan, I'm sorry."

"Wei Ying should be."

Wuxian sighed. "You understand why I can't participate in battle openly, right? They already condemned me for demonic cultivation. Once they learn what I can do, I will be their next target. They won't care that Dafan Wen are innocent. I can't draw attention to us, but the farther the distance, the more challenging it is to use resentful energy. It has consequences."

"How to avoid consequences?"

"Impossible. I would have to get closer, but someone may notice me."

"Ask Xiongzhang for help. He's on our side."

"Are you sure we can trust him?" Wei Ying asked slowly. "There is someone by Ruohan's side who manipulates your brother."

"Who is it?"

"I'm not sure. It's someone short who acts like a double agent. The spirits sense his malicious intentions. He is in contact with Zewu Jun. That's all I know."

"I must talk with Xiongzhang. I'm sure he is going to believe me."

****

It has been several weeks since Wangji suddenly left to talk with his brother. Wei Ying worried about him, but his hands were full of Yin Iron and Dafan Wen. They managed to build a small settlement and didn't lack much, but he remained anxious. Something deep inside kept insisting he should not trust sects. Spirits were restless, determined to keep him within the safety of the barriers. Wei Ying was wise enough to listen to them.

One day, the Burial Mounds and unexpected visitors. Uncle Four and Wen Ning met them in Yiling while they kept asking about Wei Wuxian, son of Cangse Sanren. Unsure of what to do, they brought them back home. A couple of male cultivators, one dressed white, the other black, looked amazed around the settlement.

"Why are you looking for my Didi?" a young woman with a ferocious look asked them.

The Cultivators saluted her in greeting. "I'm Xiao Xingchen. This is why cultivation partner Song Lan. I heard that my nephew lives in Burial Mounds. My Master Baoshan Sanren was under the impression he passed away with his parents. We were surprised to learn that he was alive. I would like to invite him to visit Celestial Mountain."

"A-Ying will be happy to learn he still has family beside us and spirits. Follow me. He is...," she hesitated. "Meditating inside."

They followed her inside to find him unconscious in the pool of his own blood.

"A-YING!" she yelled and dashed to his side. "Please, Didi... open your eyes."

Xingchen checked his vitals and energy. They were weak. "Can you tell us what he was doing?"

"A-Ying was cleansing Yin Iron, using an enormous amount of energy to do it from save distance. He tried to wait for help from sects, but we didn't hear anything for weeks. So he continued to cleanse it slowly, but something must have happened, and he pushed it."

"His organs are failing," Song Lan explained after a short examination. "A-Chen, you need to take him now."

Wen Qing hugged him protectively. "Where are you taking him?"

"To his grandmother," Xiao Xingchen explained. "I'm afraid what we are seeing is a backlash from Yin Iron. Only she can help him. I can teleport directly to the Celestial Mountain with one person. A-Zi, will you stay here and protect them?"

"Of course, go!"

Xiao Xingchen and Wei Ying were gone with a puff of white smoke. Wen Qing could not stop her tears, praying her Didi would recover.

"Don't worry, Miss Wen. Baoshan Sanren will help him."

The mood in the settlement was sombre; even the children were quiet. Everyone was worried, and no one understood why Lan Wangji never returned despite his promises. As days passed, the mood got even worse. Finally, after a week, Xiao Xingchen was back with the news.

"A-Ying is in a coma, but his life is no longer in danger."

In the meantime, they heard the news that Wen Ruohan had died and someone stole Yin Iron. Song Lan disagreed with rumours. Wei Ying's injuries clearly pointed out that he destroyed it. Then there were voices that Yiling Patriarch hid Wen refugees and built an army. Both cultivators were shocked. Their nephew was unconscious for two months now. How could sects accuse him of anything?

Finally, one night someone attempted to sneak inside the Burial Mounds. Xingchen and Song Lan rushed to the border and brought two visitors. Both were dressed in dark cloaks, trying to hide their identities.

"Lan Wangji," Wen Qing hissed, seeing a man who betrayed her Didi. Her eyes were full of hatred. "Wei Ying is no longer with us. I hope you are happy."

"No..." Wangji muttered, crumbling to his knees.

"Miss Wen, you misunderstand," the second visitor stepped in, squeezing his fan. "Wangji-Xiong was imprisoned in Gusu. It took me months to plan his escape. We rushed straight here. Where is Wei-Xiong?!" he asked desperately.

"He has been in a coma for more than two months now."

"Please, let me see him," Wangji begged her.

"I'm sorry, Master Lan, but he is not here, and unfortunately, I can't take you to him. A-Ying is well taken care of," Xingchen explained gently. He could see the devotion and love in his eyes. "Your soulmate is safe."

"Now, can you explain what happened and why there are so many rumours about him?" Song Lan asked them.

Since Wangji was a sobbing mess, Wen Qing took him in and gave him some herbal tea, while Huaisang took over explanations.

After Wangji returned to Gusu and spoke with his brother, Xichen conferred with others. As soon as they heard about the Wen refugees, they weren't happy. Voices that Wei Ying was dangerous and accusing him of possessing Yin Iron to control the puppets. Wangji stood up to his uncle and sects to defend him. As a result, they locked his spiritual energy and imprisoned him in Jingshi. Huaisang pointed out that Jin was the loudest and first to accuse Wei Ying, followed by Jiang.

"Wei-Xiong did not interact with anyone outside Yiling since his return. I don't understand why they blame him. There were even voices he bewitched Wangji-Xiong."

"Wei Ying never did anything wrong," Wangji muttered, sipping calming tea. "He needs to be protected from sects."

"Agree," Xingchen nodded. "A-Ying is safe for now. No one will ever find him, but I'm also worried about his family."

"Where is he?"

"I'm sorry, Master Lan, but in this situation is best you don't know."

"Wangji-Xiong, I must agree. We don't have any allies. Besides you and me, who can be trusted? Our brothers did nothing to help. No one is willing to listen to us. There is obviously no army here. If they attack, we can't even defend Wei-Xiong's family."

Wen Qing sighed. "A-Ying was the only one capable of fighting here. A-Ning and I may have a golden core, but we are healers."

"Shall we send for help?" Song Lan asked his soulmate. "I'm sure your Master will intervene. In the meantime, we can find out who is responsible for this mess."

****

A month later, sects organised a siege at Burial Mounds to flush out Yiling Patriarch and destroy his army. Wei Ying was also accused of kidnapping Lan Wangji and Nie Huaisang. An impenetrable barrier stopped their advance. Then one person emerged. A middle-aged woman in white and grey robes. She had an aura of dignity around her, full of unmeasurable spiritual energy.

"HAND OVER YILING PATRIARCH AND YIN IRON!" the crowd demanded.

Her silver eyes scanned the group of sect leaders standing in front of a couple of thousand cultivators. "How low the sects have fallen," she said. Her voice was low, but no one was able to ignore her. "Let's hear it. What is your evidence against Yiling Patriarch?"

The crowd was speechless. How could she demand evidence? Yiling Patriarch was obviously guilty. Who else would try to take all the power for himself?

"I'm waiting," the woman said with visible annoyance.

"Who are you to demand anything from us?" Lan Qiren asked.

"Baoshan Sanren."

Multiple voices accused her of lying. There was only so much stupidity she could handle. A wave of immense spiritual energy knocked everyone to their knees.

"I will repeat again, what is your evidence to accuse my grandson. Do you have any, or are you just spouting nonsense?"

"He is a demonic cultivator!"

"That only proves that he is capable of mastering a much more difficult and challenging path. Since neither of you can give me evidence to support your claims, should I count you all as guilty of slander?"

"How dare you? Sects act in the name of justice!"

"Oh, so you came here to slaughter farmers, craftsmen and doctors in the name of justice? Or maybe the imaginary army?"

"It doesn't change that he stole Yin Iron after Jin Guangyao killed Wen Ruohan!"

Baoshan Sanren started to laugh. A bluish whip shot towards mentioned man and pulled him closer. "So it is you, huh? Tiny dwarf with an overgrown ego. Before I show you his memories, I must warn you that punishment for conspiring against my family is severe. Now for the facts, my grandson, Wei Ying, has been in a coma for the last four months after he purified Yin Iron and destroyed it. The backlash killed Wen Ruohan and severely wounded my grandson. He did it without leaving Burial Mounds. Dafan Wen - he protected - are a distant branch of Qishan Wen. They sought refuge with A-Ying when Ruohan started to pressure them to join the war. There are only two cultivators within them, and none of them carries a sword. A-Ying doesn't need the army, so why bother creating one? It doesn't even make sense. Lastly, Lan Wangji and Nie Huaisang arrived here on their own, while A-Ying was already unconscious. How could he control or bewitch them? So, I will ask you to show me your evidence or face my wrath."

The crowd was suspiciously silent. No one dared to speak. Baoshan Sanren took it as an invitation to pull them into empathy and show them Jin Guangyao's memories. They were shocked to see his manipulations and how easily he fooled them. Lan Xichen was shattered. He believed this man against his own brother. Their punishment came as a surprise. With one wave of her hand, Baoshan Sanren locked their spiritual energy for five years.

****

A year passed. Dafan Wen settled near the Celestial Mountain in a village called Lingjian. Nie Huaisang, Xiao Xingchen and Song Lan looked after them and protected them in Wei Ying's place. The town kept growing, attracting more people and rouge cultivators. Yet neither wanted to create a sect while the most important person was still absent. Wen Qing and Wen Ning opened a hospital, providing free services for everyone. Their lives seemed happy, but they missed their brother dearly.

Wangji felt guilty and responsible for Wei Ying's state. If only he would listen to him and approached his brother more cautiously, Wei Ying would have been safe. He spent his days and nights holding his beloved hand, begging him to wake up.

"I admire your devotion, but you need to rest," Baoshan said, then gently pulled him away from the bed. "He is safe here."

Wangji shook his head. "It's my fault that Wei Ying is like this."

"You can't blame yourself for his choices."

"I promised him to come back and help him. I failed him again. Why I'm never there to help him when he needs me?"

Baoshan pushed him down by the table with a hearty meal and encouraged him to eat. "Sometimes fate wishes to test your bond and devotion. You were both fighting for each other. It takes a lot of courage to stand against your sect and family, yet I heard you didn't hesitate. You didn't give up nor believed in rumours. Didn't you rush to his side as soon as you regained freedom? A-Ying knows you love him. He will come back to you."

****

He was drifting in a timeless void. It kept luring him with safety, but he could feel something was missing. Sometimes he would see a white ribbon fluttering against the burning sky. Sometimes the comforting aroma of sandalwood surrounded him like a blanket. Someone was calling him, but the voice was too distant. Someone loved him. Who was it? His mind was slipping away into nothingness when an image flashed in front of his eyes.

"Lan Zhan!"

His fingers desperately clutched a white fabric as if it was an anchor to keep him alive. The book clattered to the floor while golden orbs stared at him in disbelief.

"You are awake," he whispered with tears flowing down his pale cheeks.

Wei Ying looked at him with confusion. Why Wangji was crying? Did he upset him somehow? Was it because of his brother? Maybe he shouldn't act so suspicious towards Xichen? Then something else caught his attention. Why did Lan Zhan look so different? Wei Ying shrugged it off. All questions could wait. "You came back," he said with relief.

"I'm sorry, I was too late."

"Huh?"

"You were in a coma for two years. It's my fault. I should have listened to you to not trust Xichen. I'm sorry, Wei Ying."

Wuxian tried to push himself up, but his body fell back on the mattress, and a soft groan escaped his lips. "Ugh, be dear and help me sit up so I can slap you for spouting nonsense. Where are we?"

"Celestial Mountain," Wangji replied, helping him lean on the cushions. "You suffered from backlash after destroying Yin Iron. Luckily your uncle was visiting Burial Mounds and brought you here for treatment. How could you do something so reckless?!"

"Oh, so now it's my fault?"

"No..." he trailed off, realising Wei Ying was teasing him. Wangji leaned closer and kissed him. It was deep and desperate, as if asking for forgiveness.

Suddenly, Wei Ying pulled away. "Where are Jiejie and my family? If we are here, there is no one to protect them."

"They are safe. Dafan Wen live in the town nearby with Nie Huaisang and your uncles."

"I'm glad... Wait, I have uncles?!"

Wangji nodded, then explained the best as he could events from the last two years. Wei Ying was shocked at how harsh Baoshan Sanren was towards sects. He wasn't used to people standing up for him or believing him. It was new but not a bad feeling.

Once Wei Ying fully recovered, he moved to Lingjian and created the Si Ji sect with his uncles and Wen Qing. Nie Huaisang decided to join them if they let him organise and lead the intelligence division. No one objected, and Second Master Nie became a part of a new sect.

Picturesque mountains and the vibrant town looked inviting, offering a safe home for both of them. They stood at the top of a crystal clear waterfall, admiring the beautiful sunset. They seemed to have everything, yet something was missing.

"What are you planning to do, Lan Zhan?"

Wangji reached for his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "I'm never leaving your side again."

A genuine smile lit up silver eyes with a promise of eternity together.