#not jiang clan friendly
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remma3760 · 7 days ago
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An Unforseen Shift
I have an ongoing story on A03. This is the link to the forst chapter. I just posted chapter 22, and update on Sundays. I'll post the links weekly.
Summary:
Wei Wuxian found a resentful sword deep in the bowels of a famed beast. He took it. That turned out to be fortunate since, it would seem, the sword had more than one purpose. That sword was the key to their escape from certain death trapped in the cave of the Slaughter Xuanwu.
Notes:
This story is canon up until the disciples escape from the Xuanwu Cave leaving Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji alone and injured. After that is goes in a different direction, although I do try to keep as many canon elements as possible.
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wangxianficrecs · 2 years ago
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💙 Baby Whisperer Wei Wuxian by Preludian_Staves
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💙 Baby Whisperer Wei Wuxian
by Preludian_Staves
T, 15k, Wangxian
Summary: Thanks to his ability of soothing children everywhere he goes, Wei Wuxian accidentally acquires a child during the Cloud Recesses study arc and it changes things in how he interacts with the Lan Sect.
Kay's comments: What a delightful story! I keep coming back to it again and again since the moment it finished. The story is set during the Cloud Recesses study arc, where little Lan Lihua escapes the children's creche and sneaks away to the public areas of the Cloud Recesses. She's already lost her parents and hasn't managed to bond with another adult yet, which, of course, worries her caretakers. Enter: Wei Wuxian. He encounters the child during the escape and quickly manages to calm her down. After this, he gets entrusted the care for this child as a new "punishment" and absolutely flourishes. Lan Wangji soon helps out as well and the two of them grow closer. Everything could've worked out perfectly, if only there weren't the Lan elders and the Jiang Sect - both of those groups work against Wangxian in this. I must say, Lan Lihua is such a cutie and I can totally understand why wangxian cannot help but fall in love with the child and I always love to see them taking care of children. It was also fun to see the Lan deal with Wei Wuxian in a different way than simply assign him more rules to copy. All in all, a very cute story!
Excerpt: Lan Wangji considers responding, but then he catches sight of Lan Lihua’s reaching hand towards a rabbit’s back, gently stopping the movement. “Gently.” “Mmm” Lan Lihua glances up at him with warm, smiling eyes as she hums softly in response to his gentle words as they slowly pet the rabbit together. In that moment as Wangji gently guides this innocent child in how to touch the rabbits, he suddenly understands why Wei Ying very nearly turned his sword against him, hearing his words as a threat rather than a genuine offer of help. There is nothing that he wouldn’t do for her continued happiness as warmth suffuses itself within his heart.
canon divergence, accidental baby acquisition, cloud recesses study arc, not jiang clan friendly, arranged marriage, parent-child relationship, good parent wei wuxian, good parent lan wangji, single parent wei wuxian, fluff and angst, rituals, developing relationshop, pov wei wuxian, pov lan wangji, @preludianstaves
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(Please REBLOG as a signal boost for this hard-working author if you like – or think others might like – this story.)
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allpiesforourown · 4 months ago
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TRANSMIGRATOR LAN ZHAN YAP SESH‼️ (I say as the main victim of all your yap seshs)
Thank you slug for letting me yap even after I've subjected you to this au a thousand times
Kind of a svsss au with transmigrator Lan zhan ↓
Lan Wangji whose absolute fav character ever is Wei wuxian. He's read about him since wwx was a poor homeless child to when he was adopted by the Jiangs to when he became the cultivation world's hero. He HATES how this sweet, selfless, friendly character gets put through one terrible situation after another.
His room is fucking full of wwx merch. Oh he's not popular enough? He's gonna have a body pillow custom made with Wei Ying on it. He has an office job where people are terrified of him and then he goes home and holds his Wei wuxian plush for hours.
Then the final chapter of Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation is posted and wei wuxian GETS KILLED. All the major sects worked together to launch an attack on the burial mounds. All he ever did was want to protect the wens!!!!
Lan Wangji is so fucking mad he dies. And he wakes up in the body of Lan zhan aka hanguang jun, his most hated character.
Hanguang jun is an uptight morally self righteous bastard who was offered Wei Yings friendship time and time again but rejected it! Wei Ying would call him by his birth name and instead of seeing it as affectionate, hanguang jun would get angry at Wei Ying for being informal. Not only did he constantly get Wei Ying into trouble for harmless (loveable and boyishly endearing) pranks, he also publicly criticized him for his demonic cultivation, not knowing Wei wuxian had no choice since he gave up his core.
He wakes up to xichen asking if he's alright and immediately goes "WHERE IS WEI YING"
Xichen: uh... Wei wuxian? I didn't know you two were that close
Lan zhan: I have to see him immediately
Xichen is concerned (his brother had a qi deviation) but when Lan zhan is still insistent on it for days, he says he's welcome to accompany him to the Jiangs gathering.
Xichen: but I thought you hated large parties
Lan zhan: I'll go if Wei Ying is there.
Xichen: ....🏳️‍🌈❓️
They arrive and Lan zhan can barely breathe when he sees how gorgeous Wei wuxian is. He's in his yiling laozhu outfit, so this is post war but he hasn't gotten in a fight yet so it's pre saving the Wen clan. Lan zhan steps closer and calls his name and wei Ying sneers
Wei ying: Lan zhan- hanguang jun. I thought you hated me too much to even look at me
Lan zhan: I don't. Please call me Lan zhan like you used to.
Jiang cheng: *raises an eyebrow*
Wei Ying faltering: uh. Haha what's gotten into you-
Lan zhan stepping forward and grabbing wei Ying by the waist: come back to gusu, Wei Ying. I need you.
Wei wuxian's face is bright red and he's speechless. Jiang cheng thinks hes hallucinating. Xichen is going ah so it is 🏳️‍🌈 indeed. Everyone else at the party is staring because there's no way this is happening. Nie huaisang is choking on his tea because he's the authour and that's definitely another transmigrator.
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wangxianficfinder · 3 months ago
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Fic Finder
Oct 21st
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1. Hiii first of all i just wanted to thank you for being able to find the fic i was looking for last time :)) im looking for this fic that i cant find anywhere it was a modern au on ao3 where wangxian dated in hs or college but lqr forced lwj to break up with wwx (through txt if i remember right) but wwx didnt know that lwj was forced so when they meet years later and lwj is working for the lan company they hire wwx and the wens to work on the cybersecurity and wwx is rlly angry while lwj is just pining. TIA!! @draconislyra
FOUND? Tempo Rubato by Spodumene (E, 108k, wangxian, modern, angst w/ happy ending, romance, persuasion au, separations, pining, miscommunication, depression, self-harm, reconciliation, smut)
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2. theres this fic and i forgot the title, but its where jin ling has been wearing wwx's protective bracelet since he was a baby and assumed/thought his mom gave it to him and the bracelet is rlly effective! but in guanyin temple, su she(?) broke it but wwx fixes it and strings the bracelet back together
FOUND! a symbol to remind you that there's more to see by paperminds (T, 9k, JC & JL & WWX, canon-compliant(ish), post-canon(ish), Canon-Typical Violence, Hurt/Comfort, Mild/Moderate Angst, angst with happy ending, Yunmeng Shuangjie, Twin Idiots, Reconciliation)
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3. Hi! I'm looking for a specific fan fiction i remember that both wwx and lwj has lived a long and happy life and now they think it's time for them to leave the world lsz is very upset and doesn't want to let his parents go they go upto a field to fall asleep or smth, there was also wwx telling lwj how tired he is, I've been dying to find this one
FOUND? The Sea Calls Us Home. by selfptrts (T, 3k, WangXian, ZhuiLing, Suicide, Hurt No Comfort, Established Relationship, Heavy Angst, wangxian are married and have a son, xicheng if you squint hard enough, Mentions of Canonical Character Death, Assisted Suicide, References to Supernatural (TV), References to Canon, Found Family, Grief/Mourning, Immortality)
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4. Hello! I'm in desperate need of help. I'm trying to find this one fic where NMJ gave WWX Baxia since he couldn't wield her anymore. I remember a scene where he was struggling with her but then JC(?) told him he was still using sword forms so he needed to find a different way. Thank you so much in advance!!!
FOUND? Lynchpin by ShanaStoryteller (Not Rated, 103k, WangXian, JC & WWX, Time Travel, Fix-It) WWX definitely ends up weilding Baxia in Lynchpin, and there's a scene about WWX creating a new Sabre sword style.
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5. Hii, I'm looking for two wangxian fics that I unfortunately don't remember much about. A) The first one was one where the war was solved and WWX joined DafanWen, I remember that Dafan's robes were pink/peach and I think DafanWen became a medical sub-clan of Lan.
B) The second one was a post canon where WWX basically adapted to life in Cloud Recess. He learned to knit and I think the fic had a tag that had to do something like "something about gender roles". @canisirio
5A)
FOUND? 💖 Light Source by abCEE (M, 31k, wangxian, not Jiang friendly, no golden core transfer, fall of the jiang sect, happy ending)
5B)
FOUND? Reeds in the Wind by merakily (T, 26k, WangXian, Post-Canon, Canon Compliant, Character Study, Yunmeng bros Reconciliation, Rabbit Therapy, Sewing Therapy, PTSD, Emotional Baggage, Hurt/Comfort, JC is Bad at Feelings, JC Needs a Hug) I feel like it's not the right fic but it does have wwx doing embroidery
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6. hi this is for fic finder!
i think this is starts when wwx is still in the burial mounds with the wens and he's called? because lwj is sick like literally in bed, unconscious with fever sorta sick. I think it turned out to be a curse or smth related to his golden core!
also another fic, also these two fics coild be the same so I'm not sure
it could've been related to the first request, I kind of remember wwx sacrificing or getting harmed to save lwj and then all the Lan elders kind of give wwx a new core in the caves in cloud recesses
this is really messy, I'm just trying to say that I remember these 2 points and they could be in 1 fic or 2 different fics
thank you sm @bunnycoffeeumcat
FOUND! Weep You No More, Sad Fountains by athena_crikey (T, 59k, WangXian, LXC & LWJ, LXC & JGY, Canon Divergence, Fix-it fic, Whump, Curses, Fever, Delirium, Stabbing, Loneliness, Confessions, LWJ’s emotional repression, WWX giving everything as always, LXC realising sympathy is not support, LQR Being an Asshole) for the first point but not the second so I guess this is 6a?
FOUND? 🧡 decay by antebunny (G, 15k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Angst, Misunderstandings, Miscommunication, Fix-It, Angst with a Happy Ending, the fluffiest ending, Hurt/Comfort) Are they maybe thinking of decay by antebunny? I know the ending of the fic has a similar scene to what they were describing
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7. Hi. I am looking for a fic where Baoshan Sanren knows about Wei Wuxian’s fate but cannot directly interfere. Instead she raises Mo Xuanyu as a cultivator and Talisman Master who helps Madam Jin keep Jin Ling safe in Lanling Jin before leaving for the Imperial Exams. Before he can reach, he is assassinated by Jin Guangyao. Wei Wuxian then wakes up in the body and decides to write the exams, becoming a high ranking minister. The emperor takes an interest in the cultivation world a few years later.
FOUND? Awakening: Return of the Patriarch - Another Way by SplitGirl28 (M, 35k, WIP, Transmigration, Related to Jin Guangslut again, Nobody has access to WWX's notes, Experimentation Underway, Established SongXiao, A-Qing Lives)
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8. Hi! I'm looking for this fic where wwx and lwj are thrown into an arranged marriage together, and don't know each other. Wwx is generally happy and excited, and lwj sees this and immediately hates him, bcoz he wanted a calm, quiet spouse to live with. The whole thing is orchestrated by Madam Yu, who basically abandons wwx at cloud recesses bcoz she figures he would be miserable here. Lwj doesn't like him to or try to understand him, so wwx slowly gets more and more depressed and suicidal, kind of as a parallel to Madam lan. I think he tries teaching for a while, and he's very good at it, but the elders step in and claim he's corrupting the children, so that's that. He finds the yin iron, and plans to destroy it worth a circle that will also take him out along with it, but before he can go through with the plan lwj realises how depressed he is and starts making an effort to help him. The fic ends with lwj offering to run away from cloud recesses with him, and wwx telling him no, he doesn't want to be some sort of shameful indulgence, if lwj really wants him he'll stay and fight with the elders on his behalf @arsonistbydaylibrarianbynight
FOUND? Concord by Deastar (T, 41k, WangXian, Arranged Marriage, Gusu Lan Sect Rules, Depression, Canon Divergence, Angst with a Happy Ending)
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9. Hi! For the next Fic Finder, I’ve been trying to find a fic where LWJ leaves the CR to go help WWX in the Burial Mounds. It kind of starts of with LWJ and WWX confrontation after WWX rescues the Wens. There’s a sequence where LWJ is gathering stuff to take to the Burial Mounds. Then in later chapters it’s LXC, LQR, and a couple of Lan Elders going to Yiling to try and bring LWJ back to the CR. They find him in Yiling, selling produce, only to discover that LWJ is living a happy life with WWX and is no longer following Gusu Lan’s rules as he lets a bunch of kids decorate his hair. Sorry this is super long. I can remember what happens in the fic, but for the life of me I can’t remember the title. Thanks a bunch!
FOUND!🔒Unpack Your Heart by Terri Botta (Isilwath) (T, 22k, wangxian, Romance, Everybody Lives, Canon Divergence, LWJ Has Feelings, Protective LWJ, Burial Mounds Settlement Days, LWJ Stays at the Burial Mounds, Burial Mounds Ensemble as Family, Wangxian in Love, YLLZ WWX, Lan Clan Elders are Assholes, Minor Transgender Character, Qiongqi Path Divergence, LWJ loves his bunnies)
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10. hi - i’m looking for a f/f wangxian fic. lwj and wwx start as friends but there’s obvious sexual tension (wwx still thinks she’s straight, and keeps “baiting” lwj). lwj lives near her mom, and she bikes to visit her with wei ying. there’s a scene where wwx is wearing novelty panties with a weed leaf on it? and wwx turns out to have nipple piercings which makes lwj go insane? eventually wwx is like “i may not be a woman but you’re a lesbian so you can’t love me.” and lwj is like. nah. i love you?
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11. Hi! This is for fic finder. I honestly dont remember if it was a fanfic from this fandom or a chinese bl novel i red years ago. It didnt help that i dont remember much of the story. I will call them mc and ml (if it was a fanfic, wwx is the mc). They are an actor. The mc got a big role and there are a sex scene in the film with the ml. And then the mc catch a feeling to the ml. The plot of the movie they shoot is where the mc always running away. The movie plot kinda resobate with the mc feeleng. And the writting style is tell a twi stoey. The movie plot and the fic. Long story short, the mc get kidnapped. I dont remember if its trully happen or the movies's plot but i think the mc was genuinely kidnapped. The kidnapping is meticulous that make people tell the ml to brace himself for the worst case scenario. The ml helped to find the mc. In the end, the mc is found but in the bad shape. Near the end of the story, they are in shooting where the plot is the ml found the mc. They hugged and the staff say that it feels genuine.
Im 80% sure its a wangxian fic. I read that around 3-4 years ago. Thanks! @idontknowwhattowriteforusername
Hi im #11 in recent fic finder. I dont know if it will help but it involves a cottage (where wwx is held when he is kidnapped), a river (i think their investigation lead to the river and found a red scraf), a red scraf (i think wwx knit it? I dont remember but it his). Its not outsider pov and not a twitter fic (i dont know what is called). I think the film they play is a porn one? (Not sure about this part). Thanks!
NOT FOUND! call me, beep me by myung (T, 39k, wangxian, modern, social media, actors au, celebrities, chatting & texting)
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12. fic finder: does anyone remember this one fic where lan qiren was looking for a way to get wwx a new core and he calls for people to make spiritual donations or something? wwx didnt think anyone would volunteer but when he looked there had been a huge crowd gathered to help him
FOUND! I'm Sorry & Thank You by Iamnotawriter (T, 12k, LQR & WWX, WangXian, Canon Compliant, Post-Canon, Golden Core, Canon-Typical Violence, lqr's epipheny, Angst with a Happy Ending)
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13. Hi, can you help me find a fanfic that I missed? It was about WWX who died (supposedly in his world, devoured by corpses) but he travels to another dimension, he thinks it was because of the Stygian Tiger seal, and finds another version of himself that was from that dimension. There is a specific scene where WWX (modern) teaches WWX (cultivator) how to use the shower and WWX (modern) talks about Su She who was his boyfriend and such. In the end, Huaisang reveals that the two WWX have the same DNA and that he has never seen an identity of him. / oi, podem me ajudar a achar uma fic, (hi, can you help me find a fic,) It's from wwx that he dies and travels to another dimension, where he meets another older wei wuxian, this wwx (modern) is investigating a case of dead people, there's a scene where they take baths together (Wwx (modern) teaches wwx (cultivator) how to use showers) and wwx talks about his jerk ex-boyfriend who was su she, there's a specific scene where wwx (modern) confronts su she (ex-boyfriend) he (modern wwx) meets lwj who was a teacher of something and they end up getting close.
(this part moved to Itmf)
both requests by @quwieiidkd
FOUND? so when you go wherever it is you will go, take the moon with you by comforting_monachopsis (T, 138k, WWX & WWX, WWX & WQ, WWX & WN, wangxian, JC & WWX & JYL, past WWX/SS, past WWX/XY, canon divergence, time travel, dimension travel, modern, private investigator WWX, professor LWJ, trauma, serial killers, strangers to lovers, BAMF WWX, hurt WWX)
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14. I'm looking for a fanfic, but I can't find it. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji share an unsatisfying night, but fate keeps bringing them together. thanks! ❤️
FOUND? 🔒 Bad Sex, Good Loving by Nyatci (E, 18k, WangXian, Explicit Sexual Content, Implied/referenced WWX/Others, Implied/referenced LWJ/Others, One night stand WangXian, PWP, but like, Bad Porn with Good Plot, The Plot is the Porn being Bad, Self-Esteem Issues, Communication Failure, Idiots in Love, Falling In Love, Practice makes perfect, They work on the communication thing eventually, Under-negotiated Kink, mild angst with a very happy ending, BDSM Undertones, Consensual Non-Consent)
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15. hi this is for ficfinder!
I think this was based in the 1900s? and lwj is an exorcist of sorts, and I think wen qings family calls him for help, because I kinda remember her opening the door for him and granny is also there. wwx is a Gardner in the wen house and he's also the necromancer. I think the phrase used was similar "there's a friendly gardner"
thank you sm!
FOUND? sweet beneath sharp edges by isabilightwood (E, WangXian, Historical, Jazz Age, Light Horror, Demonic Cultivation, Ghost Possession, Haunted House, Cultivator LWJ, Gardener WWX, disabled character (WN), WRH is not a good uncle (or father), Mystery, LWJ is sent to exorcise a house and flirts with the gardener instead, said gardener may or may not be the monster he was sent to kill, Madam Lan Lives, Monsterfucker LWJ, Bottom LWJ, Resentacles, flirting via fruit, Weirdo4weirdo wangxian, Oral Fixation, WWX eats the rich (literally), Power Bottom LWJ but wwx is still in control)
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16. Hi, I’m searching for a fic I read quite some time ago. Wwx actually remembers Lwj confessing to him after the Burial Mounds siege and then they’re kinda forced into a marriage? Lwj goes to live with wwx and the wens but wwx treats him horribly. Lwj by then had been whipped and so he’s terrible pain all the time.
Thank you so much 😊 @bcozwhythefuknot
FOUND? ❤️ A Myriad of Blossoms by Itszero (E, 56k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Arranged Marriage, Forced Marriage, YLLZ WWX, Hurt LWJ, Cruel wwx, he’s cruel until he’s not, Protective WWX, Caring WWX, Hurt/Comfort, Fluff and Angst, Eventual Smut, Bottom LWJ, Dark WWX)
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17. Hi!! I've been looking for this fic for a while, I hope yall can help me. So what I remember is that LWJ becomes the YLLZ's concubine, spouse, bed warmer? They spent years apart, and WWX held some resentment due to a misunderstanding (LWJ was punished with the whip and couldn't be besides him?) I remember this scene where LWJ is wearing a (silk?) robe. Then WWX funds out about the whip scars and It was a whole thing that solved the misunderstanding, I believe. It may be a AU since there was some kind of Magic besides canon stuff? Like, the Wei Sect? members were part something (demons, animals, idk) and It happened to LWJ too for being in the BM. Oh, and MXY and A-Yuan were there too! I hope someone can help me. Thank you!
FOUND? the necromancer's fairytale by iliacquer (E, 17k, WangXian, Top LWJ, Bottom WWX, but they have switch energy, safe sane consensual noncon kink, is the Yiling Patriarch a kink, incoherent worldbuilding is incoherent, Past Torture the lan family are terrible sorry, Rough Sex, Pain Kink)
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18. hello! i'd like to ask for a fic finder! it's at least two-three years old, and on the shorter side i believe??
the first one is CR study arc, where lwj believes wwx's prank was specifically because he found out lwj is a cutsleeve/has feelings for wwx. i think he gets silently angry like canon, and later he confronts wwx about it? (it's not works/32795896 though it's similar)
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19. Hi! I'm looking for a specific fic - I think I read it at least 2 years ago, maybe earlier. WWX is hidden by (I can't quite remember if it's after 13 years or before hand) JC and JYanli, and pretends to be a woman whilst figuring what to do now. Jin Guangshan hits on her, and as always, LWJ falls for WWX in a different form. Whilst at the Golden Carp Tower, WWX is also in a wheelchair - I can't quite remember why. Everything gets revealed eventually.
FOUND? My Leaves Reach Ever for the Sun by nonplussed (T, 26k, WangXian, Fake/Pretend Relationship, Fix-It, Crossdressing, Idiots in Love, Sharing a Bed, Canon Divergence, Happy Ending, Mutual Pining, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies)
The Housewife's Guide to Causing Chaos by dvasva (M, 132k, WIP, WangXian, Canon-Typical Violence, Functionally Trans Character, Mild Sexual Content, Domestic Fluff, Love Confessions, Transphobia, Good Parents LWJ and WWX, Pining, WWX is a Tease, Grief/Mourning, Body Dysphoria, Fake Marriage, Canonical Character Death, Misunderstandings, Doting LWJ, Canon Divergence, Arranged Marriage, WWX is not in MXY's body, Misgendering, Mild Angst, Assumptions, Comedic Elements, non-sexual nudity, Blood, Discussion of Various Bodily Functions, Cloud Recesses Shenanigans, 4 years of mourning instead of 13, Méishān Yú Sect, POV Multiple, Corporal Punishment, Trans WWX, Emotional/Psychological Abuse, pregnancy mention, Timeline What Timeline, Sexual Harassment Threats) Both of these have jgs being a creep towards wei ying
FOUND? Wei Wuxian, Who's That? by bumbledees (T, 48k, wangxian, crossdressing, pining, sibling feels) Both of these have jgs being a creep towards wei ying
FOUND? By Any Other Name by ShanaStoryteller (Not Rated, 31k, Wangxian, Canon Divergence, Crossdressing, Misunderstandings, Identity Porn, Identity reveal) idr if theres a wheelchair involved for sure. i feel like there is but im gonna be honest i always forget abled ppl exist so in my mind when i read everyone is using mobility aids all the time until i get reminded otherwise lol but i do recall that he is weak and regaining energy so its possible he was using a wheelchair atp for that reason ? either way its a good fic
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20. Hello, i love what you're doings! A fic I'm looking for: JC and LWzj time travelled and decided to fix canon. As such, they spent a lot of time together. But that lead to everyone- especially wwx - to think they're a couple. Wwx is okay with it, but really bothered that he keels getting dragged into their dates @midnightlighthowlite
FOUND? ❤️ For Both Of Us (And Time Is But A Paper Moon) by sami (E, 65k, WangXian, Time Travel, Some People Live/Not Everyone Dies, Fix-It, Hurt/Comfort, Healing, Yunmeng Shuangjie, Canon Divergence, Asexual JC, First Time, Getting Together, BAMF JC, BAMF LWJ)
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yinyangcouples · 7 months ago
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Mo Dao Zu Shi Top 10 Fanfics - here there be angst
After reading Mo Dao Zu Shi and watching The Untamed, I went down the rabbit hole of fanfic, as one does. People in fan spaces frequently ask for fic recs, so I wanted to make an easy way to share some of my favorites!
To be upfront, my favorite fics follow book canon, not Untamed canon. My favorites are also pretty much all set in the ancient universe with cultivation. I read some modern stuff, etc, but that is definitely not what I gravitate towards. I also love a long fic. So here it is, my top 10.
Birthday Party by Waffles_4_Breakfast - What if Jin Zixun didn't attack Wei Wuxian at Qiongqi Path and waited until the party to attack? I love this fic the most of all that I have read so far. The author does an amazing job of taking the book canon universe and asking "what if?" I felt like the story was incredibly realistic with the canon version of the characters. High on angst. This story is explicit, but has easy to skip scenes.
Love Song In Reverse by timetoboldlygo - When Wei Wuxian wakes up in Mo Xuanu's body, he doesn't know who he is, but he is drawn to a man in white robes. This is, ultimately an amnesia fic, which I have a definite soft spot for. In this fic, there is a very high level of angst, characters processing grief, and quite a lot of my favorite little marshmallow, Lan Sizhui. This one is rated Teen and up.
Memories are easier when shared by marhalf - Sweet and slow fix-it, beginning after WWX death, on the idea that his soul would answer LWJ's call. Getting people together, healing trauma through love, I can't help it! This one brings the angst. Can you tell I have a type? When Lan Wangji plays Inquiry, Wei Wuxian answers. But not in the way that is expected. I love so much about this fic and can't recommend it enough. It is emotional, beautiful, and Wei Wuxian gets to redeem himself to almost all the important people in the cultivation world that matter to him, through shared memories. This one is explicit.
Turn Left by kianspo - Lan Wangji is kidnapped from the Lan Clan when he's still a small child. He retains no memories of his real identity, and only knows himself as a servant at Madam Ji's brothel. When the clients begin to look at him with interest, he finds someone to curse him and take away his true appearance, and with it any chance of ever finding his family. When I say this one is angsty, I do mean it. But it is so, so good. Will Wei Wuxian fall in love with Lan Wangji, when LWJ has a very ugly face? Will LWJ ever find his family, when he is unrecognizable? Mature rating.
Cultivating immortality by KizuKatana - The Lan sect has been putting pressure on Lan Wangji to find a cultivation partner. They don't like the one he chooses. This one is just fun. Ok, so there is canon typical angst. But what a fun ride. I like that there is an absence of homophobia in the world, due to the "cultivation partner universe" that the author has set up. Explicit.
a star called sun by thelastdboy - “Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying had whispered. “Lan Zhan, you will have to protect me. Madam Yu is definitely going to kill me for real this time around,” he had said jokingly, but something about how he said it made Lan Wangji pause. Later, Lan Wangji would regret leaving Wei Ying behind. Another angsty masterpiece. This one features a character working through becoming disabled. Pretty heavy on the grief. There are crows, a Wei clan, and beautiful poetic language. Not Jiang friendly. Uses Untamed canon. Rated Explicit, but IIRC, that is just due to violence and not sexual content. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Concord by Deastar - Lan Wangji hopes, somewhat frivolously, that his betrothed might find him an acceptable companion. Neither he nor Wei Wuxian are able to bear children, so there will be no need to share a marital bed; that should make it easier for the two of them to reach a natural, comfortable equilibrium. Are we surprised that this one is incredibly angsty?? It deals heavily with depression. Canon AU but in an amazing way. It does use Untamed canon (Yin Iron, WWX's "demonic" cultivation harms him, puppets, etc). My biggest complaint though is that I want MORE of it. at 45K words, it's too short. Lol! Rated Teen.
Flowers Blooming by Ilona22 - Wei Ying is orphaned when he is four years old. Unlike in another world, he does not have to wait years to be found by his father’s martial brother. Instead, he is found by a woman looking for a child to love. This one is so incredibly beautiful. At 35K words, it is on the shorter side of what I normally read. But I love seeing what might have been had Wei Ying grown up with love. Not as angsty as my normal fair. Rated Mature.
SanRen by Kyogre - Leaving YunmengJiang in an effort to curb the tensions in the Jiang family, Wei WuXian becomes a rogue cultivator. Another one I really enjoyed. I love the canon divergence of what might happen if Wei Wuxian had struck out on his own before he went to the Cloud Recesses and met Lan Wangji. It has fluff and angst and all the good things. It was written before The Untamed came out and is novel canon! Rated Teen
All will be well when the day is done by abCEE - The one where Yu Ziyuan time traveled but she thought that it was her visions of her alternate life. So I love the absolutely unique take that this one is. Madam Yu is our time traveller and the only thing she "gifts" Wei Ying is not killing him herself when he gets kicked out of the inn after his parents die. Lots of angst and redemption. Not Madam Yu friendly, as you might imagine. Rated teen.
So there you go. That is my top 10 list of favorite Mo Dao Zu Shi fanfics that I've read so far. Writing this makes me want to go back and reread them all, but my to read list is long and ever growing. If you have any favorites in that style, please drop them in the comments!
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myblurryreality · 7 months ago
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MDZS headcanons (& fanon) takes that no one asked for! 👍🏽
- Wei Wuxian would have left the Jiang sect if the war never happened
- In the right circumstances, Jin Zixuan and Wei Wuxian could be friendly (idk Abt friends)
- Lan Xichen and Jiang Yanli would have made a cute and content couple, like the quiet constant love.
- Jiang Fengmain and Wei Wuxian's parents drifted apart but there was no true bad blood
- Qingheng-Jun was selfish and paralyzed with it, he was too narrow-minded to see the hurtful ripple effects his decisions would have.
- I headcanon that though they look enough alike to be referred to as twins, Lan Xichen favors his father and Lan Wangji favors his mother.
- I think Wei Wuxian would have developed Guido eventually, even without the war.
- In the modern world Jiang Yanli would have gone low contact with some of her family.
- Wei Wuxian, similarly, would have done so with the Jiang's in the modern world
- Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji would have gotten together during the lectures under the right circumstances.
- This is not a headcanon, but I relate to Lan Wangji's mortification over getting a crush, in this economy.
- In a soulmate AU, where one gets the name of their soulmate at 25 that only you and your soulmate can see, Jiang Cheng gets his to only realize it's someone he killed or he killed someone dear to them. (This is a fic idea)
- Lan Wangji (15) is the youngest of the young masters we were introduced to in his generation and Jin Zixuan (16) is the oldest.
- I feel like Jin Zixuan and Wen Qing would have made a good political match. She's cunning and experienced enough to navigate the trappings of the Jin Clan and guide her husband.
- I headcanon that the Yu clan while politically ruthless when marrying off their daughters, were generally decent people for gentry folks. Madam Yu's personality was all her own.
- I also headcanon them as matriarchal and that they offered to take in Wei Wuxian but Jiang Fengmain refused.
- Madam Jin is a bitch but I don't think she's Madam Yu bad.
- Wei Wuxian would have made something of himself even if he had never been taken into a clan, I could see him becoming a farmer.
- While I much prefer the book canon, the handfasting scene in 'The Untamed' adaption opens up so many plot doors.
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beneath-a-moonlit-lake · 2 months ago
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It's really boring and annoying to see Jiang Cheng's personality being reduced to nothing more than a bog-standard tsundere in this fandom. No, I don't think that some readers are evil for favouring flawed and 'unlikeable' characters. I have been a proud and unapologetic villainfucker in other fandoms. But I do think that their insistence on turning this character with a shitty personality into a sad misunderstood woobie comes at the cost of erasing the story's study of the ways that abuse can be inflicted and perpetuated even by people who are 'nice' and 'friendly' to each another.
Jiang Cheng is not a tsundere or a misunderstood woobie who just struggles to show that he cares. That character type is only hostile and verbally unpleasant on the surface. Jiang Cheng is a mess of classism, entitlement and abuse hiding under a veneer of friendship. The friendship is what exists on the surface level, not the hostility. He did some good things for WWX (such as rushing to rescue him from the Xuanwu's cave), but the underlying potential for abuse was already there even during their teenage years.
It's not that Jiang Cheng has never suffered or that he deserved to be left without his family, but JC has arguably received more restitution for his suffering that any other character apart from LWJ, who only received his happy ending after WWX returned to life via the completely unexpected sacrifice of Mo Xuanyu.
JC's parents were killed by the Wen? JC was able to avenge them via the Sunshot Campaign and rebuild the clan after the war. He lost his golden core by taking the risk to lead Wen soldiers away from WWX? Well, he received a new one shortly after (via WWX's sacrifice, but he doesn't know that and doesn't need to bear that guilt until the end of the story). Jiang Yanli was killed by a trigger-happy kid during the confrontation at Buyetian? That kid died in WWX's rampage, and JC got to lead the Siege on the Burial Mounds to kill almost every member of the surviving Wen clan and watch WWX destroy himself.
Would it have been better if none of these terrible things happened? Yes, obviously. And it's fine if JC continues to feel the burden of the loss. But why has he never found an ounce of peace in the long years after WWX's death? It's because he holds WWX responsible for everything instead of placing any of the blame where it belongs.
Xue Yang and JGY mock him for being obsessed with WWX, and they are completely right to do so!
WWX is Jiang Cheng's emotional punching bag for everything that has not gone right in his life. When JC feels stressed, miserable or threatened, WWX is the person who gets kicked under the bus to attend to JC's needs. Even after JGY's complicity has been revealed, even long after Wen Ruohan is dead, even after the full extent of Jin Guangshan's awfulness and scheming and the ways in which the cultivation world and JC himself enabled that awfulness has been revealed, JC still makes it a point to scream about WWX's debt to his family. He makes it clear that he still holds WWX responsible for things that clearly were not and never would have been his fault, such as the deaths of his parents. Jiang Cheng believes, and still at some level, continues to believe even after the confrontation at Guanyin Temple that he is owed the right to demand that level of unwarranted responsibility for WWX.
And Jiang Cheng is thankfully, not a monster like Jin Guangshan. But this entitlement is not that far off from what JGS used to expect of JGY. WWX is still expected to set aside his needs, to soothe and bolster his bad moods, to cut out parts of himself to restore JC if necessary, and yes, to endure physical abuse (2 strangling attempts, physical blows to help JC vent his frustrations and endless whippings from both Madame Yu and JC).
The loss of the dogs was not a sacrifice that JC made to put up with WWX. WWX was meant to be a replacement for the dogs, and it clearly shows in the expectations that JC had of him.
----
And if you consider the argument that JC just had to slander WWX as someone who turned to evil once he left for the Burial Mounds in order to protect his clan/family as a legitimate argument, you'd have to believe that JC has never considered WWX to count as clan or family, which just makes him look even worse (unless you start twisting WWX's character to make him a traitorous troublemaker, which he very much is not).
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sonik-kun · 1 year ago
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Friendly reminder that canonically Jiang Cheng DID vouch for the Wen siblings at first, but was ultimately shut down after doing so
Most of the CW were against the Wens. Vouching for them was political suicide and yet he still attempted to defend them. He received backlash for it.
Lan Xichen, a more respected leader than JC at the time, was also shouted down too. Clearly, there was no room for arguments where the Wens were involved.. You were either with them or against them. The sect leaders had to take that into consideration during the deliberation. Nobody wants a target on their backs, especially when they are responsible for an entire sect.
Not saying the Massacre was right, neither the discrimination but be fr here.
Plus, Jiang Cheng and Nie Mingjue had trauma from all the shit the Wen clan did. They're hardly going to be so forgiving or trusting for that matter.
Furthermore, Jiang Cheng wasn't conscious when the Wen siblings saved him. He never fostered the same bond WWX would have. Remember, this is a genocide survivor we're talking about here. Forgiving and thanking members from a sect responsible for his family's demise isn't going to be easy. And yet there he was at the sect meeting, making an attempt to stand up for the Wen siblings in front of all these powerful leaders. So much so that it baffled Nie Mingjue.
Jiang Cheng (although afraid and begrudging to let WWX go in fear of might happen to him), initially allowed WWX to be with the Wens. He grew to accept that that was his path. He was happy to let him live in peace with them so long as WWX was safe and happy. But it didn't work out for them like they had hoped. And it all came to an end when his sister died, his brother in law too, and that all resulted in the Siege.
But I ask, can we really blame him for it? If he was anything like he was after his parents' deaths, the destruction of LP, and the core loss, he most definitely wouldn't have been of sound mind (he most likely wasn't for some time after either, if you remember the scene where both JGY and XY laugh, calling him a mad dog. Which makes me question the other sect leaders, if anything. It seems they were the ones more willing to jump in at any chance to finish off the Wens if they were willing to follow a "mad dog" into battle? But eh, that's speculation. We're not given the full story regarding the siege. So ig it's unfair to pin sole responsibility on one person..). He may have led the Siege, but he ultimately wasn't the one who orchestrated it with some huge, wicked end game in mind.
The persons responsible for it are all spelt out for you in the book. And yet I find it interesting that it's Jiang Cheng who is blamed and hated for everything when the real villain is right there *looks at the Jins*
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rosethornewrites · 4 months ago
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NR, E, & M reading since 9/23
Finished
Not Rated:
Ghost of you, by ColdXperience
Wei Wuxian is dead, but his ghost never leaves his lover's side. To the point where he might come back ?
The Untamed: On the Same Page At Last, by YenGirl (10 chapters)
A-Qing wants to make things right. She isn't the only one.
Explicit:
The "Patriarch" Was Supposed to be Ironic (or, Wei Wuxian, Chief Cultivator), by groignequi (15 chapters)
Wei Wuxian makes a wish he didn't intend; Lan Wangji creates a path forward.
___
The form flickers, letting curls of smoke form something like a smile, and responds, “What is it you want, patriarch?”
And Wei Wuxian, incautious at the wrong (the right) moment, says “A way to fix all of it.”
He hears the reply: “As you wish.”
He knows he’s made a mistake the second the form disperses, moving too fast and in too many directions to be called back and subdued.
___
Only a few hours later, in Koi Tower, a visiting handmaid finds her madam crying over rumors about her daughter’s marriage.
you're so very pretty, by Flxffyfxck (6 chapters)
“Lan Zhan! Shijie did my hair today. Do you like it?”
Lan Zhan didn’t answer. He couldn’t, not when his thoughts were as feral and rampant as they now were.
“C’mon Lan Zhan~” He pouted. “Don’t you think I look pretty?”
“Mn. Pretty.”
in which Wei Wuxian wears his hair in a bow and a thoroughly whipped Lan Wangji Takes Care of everything
Mature:
i really want to know (who are you), by Stratisphyre
The problem with CT Wei was, lamentably, not incompetence. Incompetence was a failing no one at the Gusu Bureau of Cultivation could forgive. Had he been incompetent, he would have already been dismissed from his position. No, the problem with CT Wei was far worse: he was friendly.
There's a new forensic cultivator in the GBC.
Lan Wangji is unimpressed.
What to Have and What to Hold, by giraffeter (3rd in a series)
“I, ah… I wasn’t sure if you would want to talk to me.”
“Why not?”
Because you said you loved me when you thought I was about to die, but I didn’t die, and now it’s awkward. “I don’t know.”
Lan Zhan’s impeccable eyebrows draw together in confusion. “I always want to talk to you.”
Wei Ying’s stomach flutters, less like a butterfly and more like a moth banging itself against a lightbulb. “You do?”
~
After the events of Keep Track of Losing Days, Lan Zhan takes Wei Ying on their first date.
Seeking Solace, by Devourer Of Worlds (Taer01), DragonHeart (Taer01), Taer01 (25 chapters)
Months after the Siege of Burial Mounds against the Yiling Patriarch, the cultivation world gets a rude awakening.
Unfinished
Not Rated:
Who are these kids?!, by Aira09
What woukd hapoen if the juniors had enough of the cultivation worlds and want to change everything.
or the juniors travel to the past and make the cultivation worlds react to wei wuxian live.
Inspired by Teen Project to change the world and Wangxian : Oracle Pearl
Have I not suffered enough, that you seek to increase my misery?, by Slytherin1130
The cultivation world had come together to commemorate the defeat of the Wens. Happy to drink the night away and revel in the knowledge that the plague that was the Wen Clan had been completely eradicated. The Sunshot campaign's success would be remembered for decades to come, and the young masters' bravery would be commended. They had assembled here to celebrate the beginning of a new era. However, the evening quickly took an unfortunate turn when an infamous patriarch marched into the halls.
Explicit:
The Threads of Fate, by WaitForTheSnitch
“What would you do if you could have him back?” Nie Huaisang asked him, a bit too seriously as he leaned forward.
“There is no way for a dead cultivator to return,” Jiang Cheng scoffed, not even willing to entertain the thought.
“Perhaps, perhaps not,” Nie Huaisang shrugged, “Even if he came back, that wouldn’t do much to help, would it? Your sister is still gone. His reputation still damaged.”
“Stop speaking in riddles,” Jiang Wanyin growled, “What did you come here for, Nie Huaisang?”
“I asked you what you would do for your brother back,” Nie Huaisang started, “I would do anything to have mine back, Jiang Wanyin. And I’m here to offer you that same choice. Because our brothers’ deaths never should have happened. They happened because of schemes and plots. They happened because of lies and deception. Your brother was made to be a villain and was led to his death because he was too powerful. Mine was murdered because he stood in the way of Jin Guangshan.”
There's nothing Jiang Cheng wouldn't do to have his siblings back. And when Nie Huaisang comes to him with a proposal to save them by changing everything, he doesn't even hesitate to agree.
Only with Time, by adrian_kres (🔒)
Thirteen years ago, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji were arranged to be married as is tradition. Throughout their thirteen-year-long "courtship," things were not always as they seemed. Now, newly married, old secrets have ripped open wounds they thought were closed, and they must work together to rebuild a trust they never had and a love they always did but couldn't see.
Told from alternating points of view between LWJ and WWX with frequent flashbacks to memories of their "courtship".
Discarded, by teawater
Children in Cloud Recesses are succumbing to a dark curse. There's one person who may be able to help.
Mature:
Knife in the Dark, by The_Jade_Goblin (2nd in a series)
A discussion conference. A murder. A cult. A whole new barrel of trouble. All this political scheming and knives in the dark, could Wei Wuxian's life ever be simple? They say there's no rest for the wicked. He's just trying to get married!
hear those bells ring deep in your soul, by Cendiar
Lan Wangji hears an unfamiliar flute when the Wen siblings are brought to Koi Tower, and he immediately goes to the Yiling Barrows to find Wei Wuxian. In that moment, Lan Wangji knows that he will do whatever he must in order to stand by Wei Wuxian's side, keep him safe, and be worthy him. It is not the first time he has bound them together to do so. The two of them do their best to protect each other in a trembling world and, in time, they heal together.
Those We Left Behind, by Sunflower1778
Wei Wuxian looks at his parents, their eyes full of fondness, and love, just for him.
"Oh my A-Ying, look at you," his mother cradles his face, caressing his cheeks with her thumb. He leans into the touch with a soft smile.
AU where most the dead come back to life.
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rayan12sworld · 1 year ago
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💙Never Again
By:Hauntcats
Summary:
Wen Qing finds herself back in the past right when she is removing Wei Ying's core. She changes her mind and changes the future.
Or Wen Qing and Wei Ying take no prisoners.
(Not Jiang Cheng friendly - if you don't like that, please don't read it.)
Chapter:24/24
Words:67,198
Status: completed
“What if he means what he says? What if it’s not just a matter of being drunk, or unable to share his feelings properly? What if that’s how he really feels? Should I just smile and take it? I’ve done that all my life. I’ve taken his temper with a smile, his cutting comments with a laugh; I’ve taken the blame for every time he’s caused trouble or every time any other disciple did something to make Madame Yu unhappy. I’ve moulded myself to smile and joke and write it all off as though I’m made of stone and nothing bothers me, like I don’t have any emotions. During all that time, no one stopped Madame Yu’s whip. No one stopped her from punishing me for the smallest thing, until I gave up trying to please her and did what I wanted because if I was going to get punished, I might as well have fun first. Soup and meaningless attention only heal so much.” Wei Ying tried to stop himself from spilling out everything, but he couldn’t. It was like he had detached himself from his body and someone else was talking while he floated around. “When Madame Yu was willing to cut off my right hand to satisfy Wen Chao’s leech, was it right for me to think, ‘Fine, I’ll just learn how to use my left hand,’? When Jiang Cheng nearly choked me to death for saving Lan Zhan and Jin Zixuan in the cave, and I let it go because Jiang Fengmian and Madame Yu told me to take care of him even if it cost me my life, did I not have the right to be angry? I have run interference for Jiang Cheng since almost the moment we met. I have allowed myself to play the fool to pull attention from his terrible temper and social skills. I have brought him friends, teased him out of sulking, and let go of every scathing word out of his mouth. Almost every day, I have listened to him and his mother make snide comments about my parents, who I barely remember. I have avoided asking about my parents, in case it started an argument and made Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli sad. I have pretended not to hear the gossip spread throughout the cultivation world, gossip that shamed my mother and her relationship with my father. It doesn’t matter that my parents hadn’t been back to Lotus Pier for a long time before my mother got pregnant. Doesn’t matter - where there’s smoke, there’s fire. Well, sometimes, the fire is the burning resentment of the person who started the rumour. According to Madame Yu and Jiang Wanyin, I owe the Jiang sect for existing. Answer me this, honourable Sect Leaders, when you take an orphaned child into your sect, do you expect them to pay you back for feeding them, clothing them, keeping them safe, and training them? Do you expect any child of your sect or clan to do the same? Do I really owe them for this golden core that I worked for, sweated for, and took beatings for? If so, then rip it from me and give it to them because my life has no value.”
(Not Jiang Cheng friendly)
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remma3760 · 13 days ago
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Without Regret
Chapter 4
Lan Wangji was conflicted. He had never wanted anything more than to go with Baoshan Sanren and Wei Wuxian. To fight evil side by side with his Zhiji. To defend the helpless, as they had sworn to do. But his sect was besieged. Surely it was his place to be a part in it's liberation? As he approached his brother Lan Xichen turned with a wide smile.
“Wangji, I am so proud of you. To be chosen by the Immortal. It's wonderful.”
“Xiongzhang, should I not remain at your side as we reclaim our home?”
“No you should not. I appreciate that you are willing to forgo an opportunity to learn from Baoshan Sanren, but it's not necessary. Sect Leader Wen will be with me. She will give the order to stand down once we reach Cloud Recesses.”
“Will they?”
“Probably about half will comply. That should be enough along with the Nie who will also come with me.”
“You will allow it?”
“You mean will I forgive them?”
“Mn.”
Lan Xichen sighed. “It's hard, I admit. I want them to pay for what they have done, but then what? When will it end if we can't find peace?”
“Still.”
“I know. But I trust Lady Wen to be a good leader. She has promised us a portion of the Wen Library as part of the reparations. That is a start, at least. If we insist on unilateral punishment then it would be impossible to go forward.”
That made Lan Wangji feel a bit better, but he was still unsure.
“You're still unsure Wangji, I can see that, but please, take what is offered to you. I know it's what you want. It will give you the chance to be sure of your feeling for Wei Wuxian. Perhaps the only chance you can have since Sect Leader Jiang has chosen not to join the alliance.”
“Sect Leader Jiang was not happy with Wei Ying's decision.”
“He was not. Baoshan Sanren was smart to put him on the spot publicly as she did. It left him no option but to agree and then leave the choice to Wei Wuxian. Clearly, he had the expectation that Wei Wuxian would choose the Jiang Sect.”
“Mn.”
“But he didn't. Perhaps it means as much to him, to spend time with you, as it does for you to spend time with him.”
“Mn.”
“I'm glad we are in agreement Wangji. I meant what I said, you know. Baoshan Sanren has honoured the Lan Sect by asking for your assistance.”
“I will not let you down, Xiongzhang.”
“I know. You never do. You live your life for our Sect. Give everything for us. It's right that you should get something for yourself. It's what I want for you Wangji so please, go and don't for a moment feel any guilt for being happy.”
Lan Wangji nodded gratefully at his brother. “I will. If there is a problem...”
“Then I will find a way to get word to you and you can come to help, but I really don't anticipate any problems.”
Lan Wangji took a step back to bow to his brother with thanks. “Mn. Do not take unnecessary risks, Xiongzhang.”
“I won't, and don't you, either. Listen to Baoshan Sanren. Stay safe, Wangji. I will see you when both our tasks are completed.”
With a final nod Lan Wangji left his brother to return to Baoshan Sanren.
***
Wei Wuxian approached the Jiangs reluctantly. He had not followed his proscribed role of happy carefree troublemaker. He had not made out that killing the Xuanwu was nothing and really, it was Jiang Cheng who should be praised for getting the disciples out of the cave. That nothing he had done was deserving of praise and he was sorry for playing the hero and drawing attention to himself. He hadn't done any of that. He had accepted the thanks of the sect leaders for being a part of the reason they had the swords back. He had smiled politely at the exclamations of awe for defeating a legendary beast while injured and weaponless. He had accepted praise.
To top it off, he hadn't taken the obvious hints that he should refuse Baoshan Sanren's request and return to Lotus Pier with them. He knew how it would be. Jiang Cheng would sulk, simultaneously wanting him to stay yet also wanting to go with him; just as he had in the quest for the Yin Iron.
Jiang Yanli would tell him that she was happy for him, but would miss him terribly every moment he was away from her. He had never questioned her actions before but now he had to wonder at the subtle manipulation in some of the things she said.
Jiang Fengmian would pretend that he was fine with the situation while he kept asking if Wei Wuxian was sure. Of course, it was fine if he left the Jiang disciples to fend for themselves without their head as long as he was sure that that was what he wanted, all the time implying that he should feel guilty to be doing what he wanted instead of what they wanted.
As for Madam Yu, she would make no secret of her displeasure. She would berate him and blame him and as soon as she got him alone she would punish him.
He sighed. Jiang Cheng punched his shoulder. “You! Why would an Immortal want your help?”
“A-Cheng, that's not fair. A-Xian is very capable.” Jiang Yanli smiled sadly at Wei Wuxian. “Shijie will miss you so much. Will you at least visit?”
Wei Wuxian shrugged. “I don't think I will be able to visit, Shijie. We have a lot of work to do to keep people safe. Jiang Cheng, I'm sure the only reason Baoshan Sanren asked for me is because of my mother being her disciple.”
“Hah!” Madam Yu sneered. “Even dead that woman causes trouble. What if we are attacked, Wei Wuxian? Have you thought of what will happen to us then?”
“I would assume that the disciples we have trained for years will defend Lotus Pier as expected.”
“You!” Madam Yu stepped forward, Zidian sparking on her hand.
Wei Wuxian found he didn't really care that much. The Jiang Sect had the chance to join the alliance, then they would have the backing of almost all the minor sects as well as the Nie, the Lan and the Wen. They had chosen not to do so. Wei Wuxian had done all he could. He had tried to put up better wards, tried to find better protections for the place he called home. Madam Yu had refused every one of his suggestions. Had even punished him for implying that she was not capable of protecting what was hers. Now it was time for her to prove that claim.
Wei Wuxian stepped back and bowed. “Uncle Jiang, Madam Yu, I will take my leave of you. Jiang Cheng, Shijie, take care of yourselves and each other.”
Then he turned and left without another word. He would pay for it when all this was over and he had to go back, but that was later. For now, he would do what he believed was right. He would do as he had sworn to do and live without regret.
***
Jiang Yanli watched Wei Wuxian walk away in wide eyed shock. He had barely even looked at her. Could he still be angry at what she had said to him earlier about Lan Wangji? But she had only said what she had because she was worried about him. Because she didn't want him to be hurt. He had responsibilities, as did Lan Wangji that made any kind of romantic attachment between them impossible. In truth, she found the idea of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji together uncomfortable. It simply wasn't natural. Her mother, probably her father too, would agree.
She just wanted to spare her A-Xian from experiencing the heartache that would surely follow if he pursued a relationship with a man like Lan Wangji. Yes, Lan Wangji was handsome, of course he was, but he was as cold as the jade he was named after. Everyone knew that. He looked at everyone with disdain. Jiang Cheng had told her as much. That Wei Wuxian had tried to befriend him but he had rebuffed her poor A-Xian at every turn. Surely, it was only because they had survived a terrible ordeal together that they now thought themselves in love. It would soon pass.
She frowned. Yet now they would be travelling together. Fighting side by side. That would not go well. If only Wei Wuxian had not agreed to go. He must have missed that Father didn't want him to. That Father expected him to refuse. It was just like her A-Xian. Always throwing himself into mischief because he thought it was his duty. Well, she would talk to him again later. If only they were in Lotus Pier she could make him some lotus root and pork rib soup. He always loved when she did that. Such a shame that that was impossible here.
Later. She would talk to him later when they were alone. He would listen to her. He always did. Later, when he came to bid her a special goodbye she would talk to him and make him see that it really wasn't a good idea for him to leave when the situation was so uncertain. Yes, later.
It never once occurred to her that there would be no later. That there would be no private goodbyes and no persuading. She never once thought that when Wei Wuxian didn't show up for dinner and she went to try to find him, that she would be told that she was too late. That he, along with Lan Wangji and Baoshan Sanren, had already left.
***
Baoshan Sanren patted the central console happily. “I missed you, Baobei. Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian, you're both okay with leaving before the feast?”
“Mn.”
“Fine with me. The Jiang's aren't going to like it no matter when I leave and at least if we go now they won't get the chance to guilt me again.”
“What is with those people? They should be proud of having you in their sect but instead they act like you're either a pet or a pest. Oh well, we won't have to deal with them for awhile. Now, Lan Wangji, how long will it take you to learn a new piece of music?”
“Depending on complexity, a day or so to several weeks to be fully competent.”
“Okay, good. I have something I picked up on a planet where music is a dominant factor in their society. I can handle killing the creatures but I will need you to deal with the lingering resentment.”
Wei Wuxian was waving his arm and hopping. “Me too, me too. Can I learn the tune?”
Baoshan Sanren looked over at him with a smile. “I don't know Wei Wuxian, can you? Do you play an instrument?”
“I used to play the flute. I had one that I think might have been my father's but Madam Yu said it was a commoner's instrument so she broke it.”
“Ugh. The more I hear of that woman the more I dislike her.”
“She only...”
“Stop.” Baoshan Sanren put her hand over Wei Wuxian's mouth. “Don't keep making excuses for her. She has behaved abominably. I think, perhaps, you are too used to compromising. Wait here.”
Baoshan Sanren disappeared into one of the many rooms, leaving Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian to look at each other with a shrug. When she came out she had several sheets of manuscript and a long flat box. The box she handed to Wei Wuxian and the music to Lan Wangji.
Curious, Wei Wuxian opened the box and gasped. Inside was the most beautiful flute he had ever seen. Solid black, with silver scroll work along the side, on the finger holes and on the sharp edge. A bright red tassel hung from the end. He laid his lips against the sharp edge and gave a tentative puff. The sound was pure and clear. He stroked it, surprised by the warmth of the body. “This isn't wood.”
“It's not. It's not anything you will have seen. That flute was carved from the heart of a meteor. She's unique, and now she's yours.”
“I couldn't...”
“You could. She's already accepted you.”
“Mn.” Lan Wangji agreed. “You must honour her with an appropriate name.”
Wei Wuxian nodded, studying the beautiful instrument. “Chenqing. I'm going to call her Chenqing.”
Lan Wangji nodded. “Mn. A good name.”
Baoshan Sanren nodded too. “It is. Lan Wangji, what do you think of the music.”
“Intricate. It will not be easy to master and must be played precisely to achieve the desired effect. I am not sure that we will have the time we need.”
“Did you forget, Lan Wangji? Time machine. We have all the time. And I know just the place to go.”
***
They stepped out into a dream world. Wei Wuxian stared in wonder. A massive moon filled the horizon, three more behind it. Soft white light bathed them in luminescence, the air warm and sweet. They stood on lush green grass surrounded by drooping white leaved trees. Vivid flowers were everywhere turning the landscape rainbow bright while glowing butterflies flit from one fragrant stem to another. Children's laughter was carried on the breeze. Wei Wuxian turned to Baoshan Sanren in awe. “Where are we?”
She smiled at him. “You might have heard this place called my Celestial Mountain. Although it's more an island than a mountain.”
Wei Wuxian gasped. “You live here?”
“I live in my TARDIS. This is where I come to relax and re-charge.”
“What about the people of this planet?” Wei Wuxian looked around as if expecting a local to pop out of thin air. “Are they friendly?”
“Yes, but you won't be meeting them. This world is more than 90% ocean. Where we stand now is the largest land mass. Consequently, sentient life here is aquatic. They had no problem with this island being colonised, as long as we didn't mess with their habitat. So, I brought my people here. The displaced. The unwanted. The children left to fend for themselves on the streets. This is where your mother grew up, Wei Wuxian. Some, like her, choose to return to their home planets. For others, this is where they will live out their lives.”
“Oh. I'm glad. I'm glad she lived surrounded by so much beauty.”
In the distance the sound of laughter grew closer. Baoshan Sanren smiled. “Ah, our presence has been noticed.” She waved as her people came into view. Many were children, but not all. They were also not all human.
Wei Wuxian gasped. “They're not all from our world?”
“Did you think humans were the only species with orphans? No, they're not all from your world. If there is a child or an abused adult that needs saving then I try to save them and bring them here for a better life.”
“But how do they all understand each other if they're different races?” Wei Wuxian asked. “Do you teach them all to speak the same language?”
“No need.” Baoshan Sanren answered. “The TARDIS automatically gives everyone who travels in her telepathy so they can seamlessly understand what other people are saying, no matter the language they speak.”
“Telepathy? Like the sharing of thoughts? Lan Zhan and I did something similar when we fought the Xuanwu but all it meant was that we could speak directly into each other's minds. How can it help us understand people who speak a whole other language?”
“True telepathy allows you to read minds, so maybe that isn't exactly the right word. It's more that the TARDIS facilitates communication between multiple species, allowing for instant translation.”
Lan Wangji looked interested at that. “Useful.”
Wei Wuxian was nodding. “It is. Oh, do we have that now?”
“You do.”
Wei Wuxian was thoughtful. Could this be responsible for his different understanding of his Shijie's motives when he spoke with her? After all, she always urged him to simply accept Madam Yu's abuse and Jiang Cheng's jealous anger and he thought nothing of it. This time though, he could see the self interest behind her implied concern. “Would it change our perception of people?”
“Hm. Interesting question. Not exactly but it might make their true selves more easily discernable. You would be able to see straight to the heart of what they were saying instead of accepting their words at face value. Could you feel a difference then?”
“I think maybe I could. What about you, Lan Zhan?”
“Xiongzhang was as he has always been. Nie Mingjue also. I did not speak to anyone else.”
Wei Wuxian laughed. “And Jin Guangshan has always been a pig so no change there.”
Baoshan Sanren shuddered. “That man is the absolute worst. Why does anyone put up with him? I did like your brother though, Lan Wangji. Sweet boy. Seemed very genuine if a little naïve. I liked Nie Mingjue too and that Wen girl has potential. Those three give me hope for the future of the cultivation world. Not sold on your Jiang's though, Wei Wuxian. Is that why you asked me about perception? Are the cracks showing?”
Wei Wuxian sighed. “I'm not sure. I've always thought that Shijie, at least, really cared for me but now I'm beginning to wonder because if she really saw me as the brother she calls me wouldn't she want me to be happy? The things she said to me, it's like she wanted to keep me manageable and I think she might always have been that way and I just didn't see it. Didn't want to see it.”
“People are complicated, Wei Wuxian. Bad people can still do good things while good people sometimes do bad things. You will have to decide for yourself how to deal with them. Just know that you have options.”
The children had reached them. They gathered around Baoshan Sanren, laughing and hugging. She turned to Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian with a laugh. “I'm going to spend some time catching up. Why don't you two get started on learning the music?”
With a final wave she was off, children swinging from her robes.
***
Lan Wangji had settled under a tree, his guqin in front of him while Wei Wuxian sat nearby familiarising himself with his new flute. He was delighted with the instrument, the tone and range unlike anything he had ever experienced. After awhile, he rubbed his neck, standing up to stretch his limbs. Impossible to tell how long they had been working since the light hadn't changed at all. Lan Wangji was still playing. Wei Wuxian sighed and picked up Chenqing again.
Baoshan Sanren had gone to catch up with her people but now she was back. She lay back in the grass with a happy sigh. “Why don't you take a break, boys? You've been at that for an age. Remember, the days here are a lot longer than you're used to.”
Lan Wangji obediently took his hands away from the guqin but he still sat rigidly, almost as if waiting for permission to return to their task. Wei Wuxian looked at him with a laugh, then turned to Baoshan Sanren. “I'm afraid that Lan Zhan is not good at relaxing, especially when there's work to be done.”
“The best thing about being able to travel in time is the luxury of not being rushed. Lan Wangji, you don't have to worry. We will arrive back in Nightless City only hours after we left the Unclean Realm. No lives will be lost or people harmed because you took a nap.”
“I am unused to a life without responsibility. I will try.”
Baoshan Sanren smiled at him. “I'm not trying to punish you by advising you to slow down. Not at all. The task I pledged us to will be a hard one. I need you both at peak performance so that we may more easily accomplish it. You don't have to be lazy. If meditating helps you relax, then do that. Or go and play with the children for an hour or two. I want you both to enjoy your time here. Be happy.”
As if to prove her point, Lan Wangji felt a small weight on his lap. A tiny child had settled there. He was an odd looking little thing to human eyes, like a small potato with eyes. The child put their hand on the guqin strings and looked hopefully at Lan Wangji.
Baoshan Sanren chuckled. “I think Stren would like for you to play for him. He's surprisingly fond of music for a Sontaran.”
“Mn.” Lan Wangji thought for a moment and then began to play a tune from his childhood. A sweet lilting melody. The child hummed and swayed, finally curling up into a ball and falling asleep.
Wei Wuxian watched with a smile. His Lan Zhan really was the best.
***
This life was idyllic. Wei Wuxian couldn't remember a time when he had felt so content. He and Lan Wangji spent their days learning the musical score. Wei Wuxian had insisted they name it as a sign of respect. Due to it's formidable intent, they settled on Purge. It was challenging, especially for Wei Wuxian who hadn't played a flute for some time. Fortunately, Lan Wangji was not only infinitely patient with him, but also a good teacher. Between the two of them they were even able to add harmonies that strengthened the effects of the already powerful music. It was exhilarating.
But, as Baoshan Sanren had suggested, they took frequent breaks. Wei Wuxian played games of chase with the children while Lan Wangji watched indulgently. The small Sontaran child, a boy, had attached himself to Lan Wangji, liking nothing more than to sleep on his lap or leaning against his side. Lan Wangji didn't mind.
Wei Wuxian ran up to throw himself into the grass at Lan Wangji's feet. “Lan Zhan, it's good here, isn't it?”
“Mn.”
“Is your little friend asleep again?”
“Mn.”
“He's going to miss you when we leave.”
“I will miss him also.”
“I'll miss all of this. I'm so glad Baoshan Sanren brought us here. That I got to see the place my mother grew up.”
“You do not regret leaving the Jiangs?”
“No. I...it's strange but I don't miss them at all. Not even Shijie. I always thought I would and it's a little disconcerting to find that I don't.”
“Perhaps in time.”
“That's just it. I don't think more time away will change anything. It's actually a relief to be away from Jiang Cheng's constant jealousy and possessiveness, from Madam Yu's abusive hate and Uncle Jiang's ineffectual complacency. Even from Shijie's urging to constantly forgive the people who hurt me because 'they don't mean it'. I should feel guilty for it, for not doing what they wanted and expected of me, but again, I don't.”
“What will you do when out task is completed?”
“I don't know, Lan Zhan. I really don't, but let's not think of that now. Come, lets practice some more.”
***
Eventually, as all things do, their time on the Celestial Mountain came to an end. Baoshan Sanren had listened carefully as they played through the music they had mastered. When they finished she gave a satisfied nod. “You've got it. Well done. Come along then, we're ready.
Both rose. Little Stren, who had been playing nearby looked up with a sigh. “Going now?”
“Mn. We must.”
Sighing again, he put a hand in his pocket and pulled out a shiny stone. He gave it to Lan Wangji. “Lucky rock. Keep you safe. Bye.” With a wave, he ran off to join his friends.
Lan Wangji stroked the rock thoughtfully then tucked it into his robes. When he looked up, both Baoshan Sanren and Wei Wuxian were smiling at him. “It is a good rock. Smooth.”
Wei Wuxian laughed. “It is. It's a sweet gift. Shall we go”
“Mn.”
***
Once they arrived in Nightless City Baoshan Sanren told them to wait a moment then disappeared into one of the back rooms. She emerged holding what looked like a sword hilt but lacking a blade. Wei Wuxian frowned at it. “What is that?”
She chuckled. “You'll see. Now, when we go out there stay behind me until I deal with any creatures in the main hall.”
“But we're here to help.” Wei Wuxian was confused. “What have we been doing all this time if you're going to take care of everything alone?”
“You will be helping. I'm relying on you to deal with the resentment. As soon as I clear a space the two of you need to start with the playing. That should pull any other monsters in hearing distance to us so I can kill them also. Ready?”
They both nodded as Baoshan Sanren flung open the door, striding out with her weapon at the ready. Only a few fierce corpses remained, the rest having gone in search of prey. The weapon she held sent out a beam of light that cut right through anything it touched. Consequently, the monsters that had converged on her were nothing but a pile of limbs in no time at all. Turning with a smile, she urged Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji forward.
Wei Wuxian was wide eyed and gaping. Even Lan Wangji looked a little startled. “That was...wow. Is that a weapon of your people?”
“This? No. It's called a laser, a concentrated beam of energy that can cut through even solid rock. I picked it up on my travels. Useful to have.”
“Mn.” Lan Wangji sat at the centre of the room, guqin in front of him. He began to play Purge. Wei Wuxian pulled out his flute and joined in. The dark resentful energy around them boiled, drawing back then striking forward but never quite touching them. The music they played created a wall of sound that pushed back the resentment, trapping it and gradually tearing it apart.
As Baoshan Sanren had predicted, more monsters came rushing towards them. She dealt with them all as efficiently as the first few.
As they played on, the black clouds of resentment tried to escape, retreating to the ceiling but there was no getting away from the relentless wave of sound. None of them could have said how long it took, but eventually it was over. A new brightness filled the hall, sunlight streaming in through the open doors and the hole in the ceiling caused when the Yin Iron passed through it. The place felt lighter, even the smell of sulphur that always lingered there seemed less offensive.
Baoshan Sanren looked around, satisfied. “That went well. What was it you called the tune?”
“Purge.” Wei Wuxian told her.
“Good name. It was even more effective than I had anticipated. This place is actually liveable now.”
They turned, swords drawn at a sound from behind the throne. A head poked out of a hidden door, followed by a scared man. By his clothes, he was clearly a servant. Baoshan Sanren beckoned him forward. He approached warily, staring at the dissected monsters in awe.
He dropped to his knees, kowtowing before them. “Please spare this lowly one, honoured cultivators.”
“Get up, man. We can't talk with you scrabbling about on the floor.” Baoshan Sanren told him. “Who are you and what are you doing here?”
“This one is Fu Tong. I am the household manager.”
Wei Wuxian stepped forward. He had not expected anyone to still be alive, but of course, while it had been weeks for them, for the people here it had only been a matter of days since Wen Ruohan's death. “Did any more of you survive?”
“Yes, Master. The cultivators and family died here but almost all the servants hid when the calamity occurred. We thought we had been abandoned but then we heard the music so I came out to look and I have seen that you have saved us!”
He began to drop into another bow but Baoshan Sanren stopped him. “No more of that. You need to go and get everyone. Get this place cleaned up for your new Sect Leader.”
“May this lowly one ask who that will be?”
“What was her name again, Wei Wuxian?”
“Wen Qing.”
Fu Tong brightened. “Lady Wen? She has always been kind to us.”
Baoshan Sanren nodded, pleased that her positive impressions of Wen Qing had been correct. “Then you can repay her by serving her well. She is currently travelling with Sect Leader Lan to assist in liberating the Cloud Recesses and will be recalling her disciples immediately.”
Fu Tong shook his head sadly. “I fear not all will comply. Many of those recruited by Wen Zongzhu were...unsavoury in nature.”
Baoshan Sanren waved off his concerns. “Not to worry. I'm sure the Nie and Lan along with their allies can handle any dissension in the ranks. All you need do is see to Nightless City and make it ready for her return. We will inform her of your good service when next we meet her.
He bowed again, happy to be given instruction. “I will go and bring out the rest of the staff. May I offer you refreshment and accommodation?”
“Very kind, but no. We need to be off now; work to do, monsters to kill. I assume we can leave the clean up in your capable hands, Fu Tong?”
“Of course, Madam. Please, may this one know who has saved us?”
“I'm Baoshan Sanren, but it was mostly these two. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji.”
He was down kowtowing again, much to Baoshan Sanren's annoyance. Still, if it gave him comfort she wouldn't interfere. “This one thanks you for our liberation, Immortal Lady and esteemed cultivators.”
“Okay, no problem. Off you go and fetch everyone out.”
“The dungeons.”
“What about them, Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian turned to him with a frown.
“Wen Zongzhu indicated that all those who opposed Wen Ruohan were imprisoned. Some may remain.”
“Oh, good point.” Wei Wuxian turned to Fu Tong. “You should send someone down to check.”
Fu Tong gave a worried look over at the piles of detached limbs. “This one will do as instructed.”
“It should be safe.” Baoshan Sanren reassured. “The music you heard will have drawn all monsters in the vicinity to us and purged the resentment.
Looking happier, he gave a final bow and disappeared through the door from which he had emerged.
“Huh. That was unexpected. Well, I'm glad the servants survived. They were innocent in all this and at least we don't have to deal with this mess. Come along, children. Let's go before that man comes back and starts bowing again.”
***
Wei Wuxian watched with interest as Baoshan Sanren set the dials on the console. “Do you have a way for us to locate Wen Ruohan's creatures?”
“I do. The Yin Iron had a very specific signature which all those created using it share. The TARDIS filed it away for later use when we retrieved the Iron earlier. Now all I need do is feed it in here and...there. Hmn, that's a lot.”
Wei Wuxian peered over her shoulder at the screen that showed a large number of red dots. “That is a lot. But we've been hearing about his puppets and walking corpses for well over a year now so I expect he's been experimenting for far longer than we realised.”
“Despicable.” Lan Wangji had joined them to look at the display. He pointed at an area close to a small group of dots. “Dafan Mountain is here.”
“Oh, Lan Zhan is right. We should go there first since Wen Qing...Sect Leader Wen's people are unprotected.”
“Okay, that's a plan. I can also scan for resentful energy so after we take care of the ones we know to be near people, we can head for the biggest concentrations of resentment. It's a bigger job than I had expected, but not impossible. Oh, by the way, I would rather not make my laser known to the cultivation world so when we fight near people I will use my sword. Wei Wuxian, I might need you with me at first while Lan Wangji plays Purge. Is that a problem?”
"None at all."
***
As soon as the door opened they heard the fighting. Several Nie cultivators had engaged the monster horde attacking the village. They were losing. Baoshan Sanren surged forward, sword in hand. Wei Wuxian was beside her with Suibian while Lan Wangji began to play. The Nies turned to them with surprise and relief as the battle continued.
“Take off the heads if you can.” Baoshan Sanren advised. “Or aim to remove their legs and arms. It's the only way to fight these things.”
They took her advice and the tide began to turn. Wei Wuxian drew back, putting away Suibian to pull out Chenqing instead and join Lan Wangji in playing Purge. Waves of resentment rose from each defeated creature, rising up to strike at the cowering villagers. The music caught and held it in check, battering at it until it dwindled and was gone. By the time the area was clear the Nie stood in a circle around Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, watching them work in astonishment.
The leader came forward with a bow. “What was that? I've heard Cleansing and that wasn't it.”
Wei Wuxian gave him a small wave. “It's new. We call it Purge. What are you doing here? We weren't expecting to find any cultivators in Dafan Village.”
“Chifeng-Zun sent us. He said since Wen Zongzhu would be fighting with him and Zewu-Jun that her people needed to be kept safe.”
“Hah. Knew there was a reason I liked that man.” Baoshan Sanren declared.
Wei Wuxian recognised the old woman coming toward them. He remembered her from the first time they had been here, on their quest for the Yin Iron. He bowed politely. “Madam, your village is safe now. We will take our leave.”
“Have you seen Lady Wen, oh, I should call her Wen Zongzhu now. These men told us what happened in the Unclean Realm.”
“Sorry, I can't tell you any more than they have. All I know is that she was going to Cloud Recesses with Zewu-Jun but I don't know what she intended after that. We have been to Nightless City though, and it's clear of puppets now. We spoke with a Fu Ting?"
"Tong." Lan Wangji put in.
"Sorry, yes. Fu Tong. Do you know him?”
She shook her head so Wei Wuxian continued. “He manages the staff. All of them seem to be safe. He promise to get the place in order for Sect Leader Wen as soon as she is ready to take her place there. Can you let her know?”
“I will write, Young Master. On behalf of my people, I thank you for your assistance.”
He shrugged. “No need for that. We saw that some of the monsters were headed your way so of course we came to help but we have to go now. You have the Nie here to protect you.”
They said their goodbyes with much waving and happy cheering.
***
It soon became routine. Wei Wuxian would help Baoshan Sanren with the monsters and then join Lan Wangji in playing Purge until the last hint of resentment was gone. Before long, they began to become known, their presence in the midst of chaos eagerly anticipated. During one such encounter, Wei Wuxian turned to say something to Lan Wangji. Whatever he had been thinking was driven from his mind at the sight that met his eyes.
An ethereal glow enveloped Lan Wangji like a halo, rising up from the guqin strings as he played. He was oblivious, whole being concentrated on defeating the evil around them. Wei Wuxian stared in stunned silence. He had always thought Lan Wangji beautiful but now he looked like a god descended from the heavens. When he could finally pull his gaze away from Lan Wangji, it became obvious that he wasn't the only one who had noticed. Many of the townspeople also stared in awe at his friend.
Suddenly, he was pulled forward. Baoshan Sanren giving him a wry shake of her head. “I know he's pretty but do pay attention, Wei Wuxian. We're in the middle of a battle here.”
He winced. “Oops.”
“Oops indeed. Now go help your boy get rid of this resentment.”
Wei Wuxian did, thinking himself a fool for allowing himself to be so easily distracted.
When the people rushed forward to thank them Wei Wuxian was unsurprised at the name he heard whispered when they spoke of Lan Wangji. Hanguang-Jun. The light bearer. How appropriate. Predictably, Lan Wangji's ears turned red at the name. Laughing, Wei Wuxian stepped in front of him to distract the eager townspeople, assuring them that they were now safe.
Within a month much of their work was done. The most dense pockets of resentment had been cleared and now Baoshan Sanren started to take a back seat. She stood back, watching as Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian dealt with the situation alone. They were fast becoming as legendary as Baoshan Sanren had always been. Lan Wangji's name had stuck, making Wei Wuxian smile and Lan Wangji flush whenever they heard Hanguang-Jun shouted happily. It was Wei Wuxian's turn to be flustered when a new name started being used for him.
Xiwang-Jun, they called him. Hope, desire for a brighter future. He turned to Lan Wangji, open-mouthed. But why? How could he be worthy of that title? “Why, Lan Zhan? I've done nothing to earn being called that.”
Lan Wangji's lips turned up in the smallest of smiles. “Wei Ying always reassures. Brings hope. Wei Ying is deserving of his title. It is fitting.”
***
Almost two months after they began they arrived in a small town just outside of Caiyi. They had finished the job and were taking their leave when Wei Wuxian noticed some whispering going on. He looked over to Lan Wangji and Baoshan Sanren, both of whom indicated that yes, they had also noticed something was up. Wei Wuxian bowed to the town magistrate. “Sir, is there something else we can help you with?”
“Oh no, we couldn't ask you for anything more. You've done enough.”
Lan Wangji stepped forward. This was Lan territory, so if there was a problem it was his duty to see to it. “You may ask.”
The magistrate looked startled, then bowed again. “It is only that the main well has become haunted, but we can manage without it. Hanguang-Jun should not concern himself with our trivial matters.”
Lan Wangji frowned. “Have you applied to Cloud Recesses for assistance?”
“We did, Hanguang-Jun. But then Cloud Recesses was attacked by the Wen. We didn't ask again because even with it being re-taken by Zewu-Jun, we appreciate that there is re-building to be done.”
“Mn. I will see to it. Where is the well?”
Surprised and happy, the magistrate led them to the town square where the well sat. Lan Wangji approached, looking into it. Wei Wuxian joined him, picking up a small stone and tossing it in. “Has anyone seen the ghost?”
“No, Xiwang-Jun. It hasn't approached anyone, but if we try to lower a bucket for water, it's impossible to pull it back up. It's like something is holding onto it.”
“I will play Inquiry.”
Manifesting his guqin, Lan Wangji began. It didn't take long, the spirit answering straight away, almost as if it had been waiting. Lan Wangji nodded, turning to the magistrate. “He is Chen Guo.”
The Magistrate started. “Chen Guo, but we thought...oh no.”
Wei Wuxian frowned. “What do you know about him?”
The man was distraught. “Oh this is terrible. We thought...he and his wife lived just outside of town. She was found dead not long before the haunting began. She had been violated and brutally murdered. She and her husband were known to fight regularly so we thought...we thought it was him, and that he ran away when he saw what he had done. But if he's here and dead, then were we wrong?”
“You were.” Lan Wangji confirmed. “His farm was attacked by Wen soldiers. He was killed and thrown into the well at night. He is not aware of his wife's fate. It is why he has lingered.”
“Wens? We didn't know. I swear, no-one saw anything. They must have been on their way to Cloud Recesses.”
“Mn. I will inform him of what you have told me.” Lan Wangji played again before nodding. “He is ready to move on to join his wife. He asks only that his remains be retrieved from the well and given a proper burial by her side.”
“We will, of course we will.”
“I will play Rest.” Once complete, he rose and put away Wangji-Qin. “You said that Cloud Recesses has been liberated? What do you know of that?”
“Zewu-Jun passed through over a month ago. He led an army of Lan, Nie and even Wen cultivators. He told us that Cloud Recesses was free and that there was nothing more to fear from the Wen and then he left.”
“My thanks. We must also depart. Do not hesitate to contact Cloud Recesses should you require further assistance. Re-building or no, we do not ignore our duty to the people.”
“Hanguang-Jun is wise. We will certainly do as he suggests.”
With a final bow, they left,
back in the TARDIS Lan Wangji was pensive. “Lan Zhan, are you worried about your brother? It sounds like he succeeded in his task.”
“Mn.”
“But you're still worried.”
“Shufu was injured in the initial attack.”
“Oh.” Wei Wuxian turned to Baoshan Sanren. “Maybe we could visit? Put Lan Zhan's mind at ease about his uncle?”
“Of course we can. We're almost done anyway so a break would be no problem.” Baoshan Sanren set the dials. “We'll need to visit in real time though, as they will have heard what we've been up to. I'll land us outside of sight of the gates. No need to scare them so soon after they were invaded.”
***
The guards began whispering as soon as they saw them, bowing low. “Hanguang-Jun, you have returned.”
“Mn.” Lan Wangji bowed back. “Is my uncle well?”
“Lan Xiansheng is recovered, Hanguang-Jun. He will be pleased to see you.” They stepped aside to allow them to enter.
The guards reaction was repeated as they continued on their way. Disciples stopping and staring, the words, “Hanguang-Jun,” repeated endlessly. Wei Wuxian nudged him, laughing at Lan Wangji's red ears.
Word must have spread quickly. Lan Qiren and a small delegation of Elders met them in front of the library. Lan Qiren grasped Lan Wangji by the arms, studying his face. “Wangji I have missed you. You look well.”
“As do you, Shufu. I am glad. I received word that Xiongzhang had liberated Cloud Recesses?”
“He did. Lady Wen, the new Wen Sect Leader was with him. I take it you know about that?”
“Mn.”
“Of course, you were at the discussion conference in the Unclean Realm. Xichen did tell me that. He said that you were travelling with Baoshan Sanren?”
“Mn.” He indicated to her then to Wei Wuxian. “Also with Wei Ying.”
“Yes. We've been hearing of your exploits, Wangji. Hanguang-Jun. A righteous title.”
“Shufu.”
“If even half of what we have heard is true then you more than deserve it. Wangji, I am proud of you.”
Lan Wangji flushed and bowed his head. Lan Qiren turned to Wei Wuxian. “Wei Wuxian. I didn't like your mother. I found her annoying. Yet she always strove to help the common people, as did your father once they were married. I am convinced that they would be glad of the choices you have made.”
Shocked, Wei Wuxian stared at him. “Oh, uhm, I hope they would be. Thank-you for saying that.”
Lan Qiren huffed. “I am sure that the Immortal Baoshan Sanren will confirm what I have said. After all, she taught Cangse Sanren and knew her better than I.”
“I did and I do confirm your words. Wei Wuxian, your mother would be proud of the man you have become.”
We Wuxian squeaked and hid his face on Lan Wangji's shoulder.
Lan Qiren huffed again. “Enough of that. Come to the Hanshi and make a report. I look forward to hearing of your adventures.”
***
Lan Qiren shook his head in amazement once they had finished telling him and the gathered Elders of all that had happened to them since Baoshan Sanren rescued them from the Xuanwu cave. Of course, they left out anything to do with her origins. “This new music, Purge, is it really so powerful?”
“It is, Shufu.”
One of the Elders leaned forward. “Will it be made available to the Sect?”
Lan Wangji turned to Baoshan Sanren. She shrugged. “Up to you, Wangji. I gave it to you, and then you and Wei Wuxian enhanced it. It's yours to do with as you wish.”
“Shufu, I will bring you the sheet music.”
Lan Qiren nodded his thanks. “You will be leaving again soon?”
“I must, Shufu. Our task is not yet complete. I know that we must re-build and regret that I am unable to stay.”
“I wasn't asking you to stay, Wangji. I know what you are doing is important. In truth, you are doing more for our sect by your actions that you realise.”
“Shufu?”
“The people admire you greatly, Wangji. Rightly so. We have received numerous applications to join the Lan Sect solely because of you. You have become an inspiration to so many. There are enough hands to restore the buildings and because of you, we can also build up our numbers.”
“Xiongzhang is also fighting.”
“He is. I am equally proud of you both. But it is you who has caught the imagination of the people, Wangji.”
An Elder chuckled. “There are songs. And also a play, I believe.”
Lan Wangji was horrified while Wei Wuxian laughed delightedly, falling against Lan Wangji. “Songs, Lan Zhan, and plays.” A thought suddenly struck him. “Oh, what about Lotus Pier? Are they getting an influx of new disciple too?”
Lan Qiren frowned. “You haven't heard, then?”
Suddenly worried, Wei Wuxian stopped laughing. “Heard what? We've been moving around so much we haven't really had any news. Has something happened to Lotus Pier? Are they safe?”
Lan Qiren sighed. “Nothing has happened, exactly. In fact, as you said, they too initially saw an increase in applications to the sect.”
“Initially? But not anymore?”
"No, not anymore. Three weeks ago a family arrived here with their young son. Merchants from Yunmeng. The mother was unwell so was instantly taken to the healers. They reported that she had been struck with a spiritual weapon. A spiritual whip, to be more precise.”
“Oh no.” Wei Wuxian clenched his fists as he waited for Lan Qiren to fill in the details.
“Their youngest son showed potential to become a cultivator, and after he heard the stories of you, Wei Wuxian and of Wangji, his greatest desire was to become a Jiang disciple. His parents were happy to indulge him and took him to Lotus Pier. All was going well until the boy made the mistake of praising you.”
“Madam Yu.”
“Madam Yu. She was not happy. It seems she became enraged when the child repeatedly stated the desire of following in your footsteps. She attacked him with Zidian. A nine year old child. His mother threw herself over her son to protect him and was struck in his place. Naturally, the family left immediately. After discussing what to do, they came here. The boy still wanted to cultivate, but not with the Jiang. As for the parents, they are successful silk exporters who had been considering expanding their business so it is no hardship for them to move to Caiyi. I have given them papers of recommendation to get things started.”
“The mother will recover?”
“She will, although she will always suffer from a weakness in her left arm. A shame. I fear that things will not end there for the Jiang.”
“Word got out then?”
“This was a popular family, it would seem, with many trading partners. I do not listen to gossip, but we have been receiving parents here who have pulled their children from Lotus Pier in fear of what the Sect Madam might do. It seems they are haemorrhaging disciples. Many have come here and told their tale. It can only get worse.”
“Wei Ying.”
Wei Wuxian sighed. Looking sadly at Lan Wangji. “She will find a way to blame me for this.”
“It is not Wei Ying's fault.”
“I know. Though in a way, it is because of me. I was always her main target. With me gone, she has no focus for her hate so it spills over onto everyone. So yes, she will blame me and want to punish me for her actions.”
“Wei Wuxian.” Lan Qiren looked at him thoughtfully. “You are Wangji's cultivation partner. You will always be welcome in Cloud Recesses should your position at Lotus Pier become untenable.”
Wei Wuxian gaped, turning from Lan Qiren to Lan Wangji and then back again. “Oh, but I mean...you don't like me?”
“I may have been hasty in my assessment of your character.”
“Wei Ying is worthy, Shufu.”
“As you say, Wangji. I will trust your judgement on this since you are better acquainted with Wei Wuxian than I.”
Wei Wuxian blinked, a little tearful. “Thank-you, Lan Xiansheng.”
Lan Qiren cleared his throat, unused to so much emotion. “Now that that is settled, we can have some tea before you leave.”
***
It was done. The last red dot had been eliminated. The evil created by Wen Ruohan was gone from the world and they could return to their lives. For the first time, they accepted the offer of refreshment made by the grateful townspeople. They had been brought to the grandest inn the town could boast and had been plied with all manner of delicacies.
Wei Wuxian tossed another spicy nut into his mouth. “We've really done it. It's over. Lan Zhan, are you going back to...oh, what's happening?” He peered over to the door where there seemed to be a disturbance.
The innkeeper came bustling over. “Terrible news. We have heard that the Yao Sect was attacked by renegade Wens. Sect Leader Yao sent to the Jins for aid but Jin Zongzhu did nothing to help.”
The Yao? They were neighbours of the Jiangs and had chosen not to join the alliance. Wei Wuxian was worried, not realising how close to Yunmeng they had come. "Were there survivors?”
“I'm sorry, young Master, I don't know but the man says that the Wens were heading towards Lotus Pier. I don't know what is best to do. The Jiang Sect should be warned but I'm afraid to send anyone as the Madam is so unreasonable. What if she blames the messenger?”
Wei Wuxian sighed. Whatever he felt for the Jiangs now, he couldn't allow then to be attacked without warning. “I will go. Lan Zhan...”
“I am coming with you, Wei Ying.”
Baoshan Sanren grabbed a stick of candied hawthorn berries as she rose. “We'll all go. Come along. Can't stand that woman but oh well. Let's go save the demented witch.”
***
They materialised just outside of Lotus Pier. Wei Wuxian hurried to the gates with a wave at the guards. “I need to see Sect Leader Jiang at once.”
“Wei Wuxian, you're back at last. It's been awful here without you. Madam Yu has been on the rampage since they got back from the Unclean Realm.”
“When is she not? Please, step aside, I have vital information for the Sect Leader.”
They looked at each other, worried before the senior stepped forward. “Madam Yu said you weren't to be given entry without her being informed of your arrival. I'm sorry, Wei Wuxian. You know I daren't go against her wishes.”
“Inform her then, but make sure Uncle Jiang also knows I'm here and need to see him urgently.”
As the disciple ran off Wei Wuxian turned to the others. “Unbelievable. I'm supposed to be the Head Disciple yet I'm made to stand here like a thief after the sect treasury.”
Before long, not only Madam Yu and Jiang Fengmian, but also Jiang Yanli and Jiang Cheng were confronting him at the gate. Madam Yu, Zidian crackling on her wrist pointed at him with anger. “You! You dare come back here demanding entry after you abandoned your sect to go running off and making a show of yourself, bringing shame on your sect. Because of you we have lost cultivators. By your actions you have damaged the future of the Jiang Sect.”
Wei Wuxian raised his eyebrows in an I told you so gesture to Baoshan Sanren and Lan Wangji before turning back to Madam Yu. “How have I brought shame on the Jiang? Tell me, Madam Yu, because from what I've been hearing my actions did nothing of the sort. Your actions on the other hand have been driving good disciples away from the sect.”
“You!” She unleashed Zidian to strike at him but the blow never landed. Lan Wangji stepped in front of Wei Wuxian to catch the whip on his sword, his anger evident.
Madam Yu tried to pull free but before she could Baoshan Sanren pulled a small tube device from her robes. She aimed it at the base of Zidian and activated. A high buzzing sound echoed as Zidian began to pulse before sputtering out and hanging uselessly.
There was a moment of shocked silence before Jiang Cheng rushed forward, trying to grab Wei Wuxian by the collar. “What have you done!? Wei Wuxian, what have you done?”
Wei Wuxian took hold of his wrists and squeezed, forcing Jiang Cheng to release him. Jiang Cheng pulled his hands back and stared at them as if he couldn't believe they were no longer still attached to Wei Wuxian. This had never happened before. Always, We Wuxian had laughed and made a joke of Jiang Chang's anger but he had never tried to stop him. He looked at his parents and sister. What was going on?
Jiang Yanli smiled sadly at Wei Wuxian. “A-Xian, you know A-Cheng didn't mean it. And Mother is only upset that you were gone for so long and yet you allowed that woman to do something to Zidian. Please, ask her to restore Mother's spiritual weapon.”
Baoshan Sanren shrugged. “Wouldn't help even if he did ask. It's dead.”
“No! Fix it!” Madam Yu was incensed, shaking Zidian, trying to get it to spark again. Nothing helped. Zidian was gone.
“A natural consequence of using a spiritual weapon against innocents. You didn't deserve it so I took it from you. Get over it.”
“Baoshan Sanren is right, Shijie. There's nothing I can do, and even if there was, I wouldn't.”
“A-Xian! How can you say that? You know Mother cares for you.”
“No, I don't know that Shijie. What I know is that she has always blamed me for everything that has gone wrong in her life. She punishes me for things that she knows are not my fault. How did I abandon the Jiang Sect? Uncle agreed that I should go, even if he didn't want to. He said it in front of everyone. How have I brought shame on the Jiang Sect? I have spent months destroying the evil created by Wen Ruohan and making the world a little safer.”
Looking at Yu Ziyuan he continued. “Lan Qiren told us how Lan Zhan's actions brought acclaim and new blood into the Lan Sect. How the same could have been true for the Jiang but you wouldn't allow that, would you, Madam Yu? You couldn't allow the smallest hint of approval for me stand. All you needed to do was say nothing but even that was beyond your capabilities. You had to pull me down and by doing so you brought shame onto the Jiang. You. Not me.”
He turned back to Jiang Yanli, tears in his eyes. “Even Lan Qiren gave us his congratulations. Yet Madam Yu wanted to punish me for doing the right thing? And you excuse her, for this and for every single time she behaves in this way. As for Jiang Cheng, maybe he does care about me, I honestly don't know anymore because there's so much jealousy and venom mixed in with the love that it's just hateful. Shijie, please, for once see the truth. You always ask me to try to get along, to not make trouble, but nothing I do ever makes a difference. Jiang Cheng is still angry and Madam Yu still punishes me for no reason. Nothing is ever going to change as long as I stay here.”
Jiang Yanli covered her face with hand, the tears starting.
“Now see what you've done! You made Jie cry.”
“I'm sorry for it, but I had to stop lying; to myself as well as to everyone else. Every word I said is the truth.”
“It's not...”
“Enough, A-Cheng. A-Xian, if this is how you feel then why are you here? Why did you even come back?” Jiang Fengmian was frowning. Perhaps what Wei Wuxian was saying was the truth but then, it had always been the truth yet he had never objected before. Once again, Jiang Fengmian wished he had refused to let Wei Wuxian go. But that had been impossible in the circumstances without the Jiang Sect losing face.
“Can we talk inside?”
It was Madam Yu who answered. “Anything you have to say can be said here.”
“Whatever. I've come to warn you, Jiang Zongzhu. We have heard that the Yao Sect has been attacked and a force of renegade Wens are moving towards Lotus Pier.”
“Nonsense.” Madam Yu scoffed. “We are a Great Sect. They wouldn't dare attack us. We will not waste time and money on a pointless enterprise.”
“Are you an idiot?” Baoshan Sanren stared at Madam Yu with contempt. “Will you keep your sect defenceless because you refuse to heed the warning brought to you by Wei Wuxian? What about you, Jiang Zongzhu? Are you as foolish as your wife or do you intend to take reasonable precautions?”
“I...I...” Jiang Fengmian stuttered out. He didn't know what to do. On the one side, Wei Wuxian had brought forth a creditable threat. On the other, his wife hated Wei Wuxian and would never agree to do anything on his word alone. Before, it had been easy. He would do whatever would keep his wife happy and deal with the consequences later. Usually, those consequences meant trouble for Wei Wuxian, but that was okay because he would easily laugh it off. Now it looked like he was no longer willing to do that. Appeasing his wife might well cost him Wei Wuxian's loyalty. He took a step back.
Baoshan Sanren shook her head. “Seriously? You aren't going to make any decisions at all? Useless. Completely useless. Wuxian, why did you stay with these people? They'll get you killed with their incompetence.”
“I know. I've had a few close calls already but I can't just leave. I have a responsibility to the disciples as their head.”
“Former head.” Madam Yu sneered.
Wei Wuxian frowned at her then turned to Jiang Fengmian. “Is that true?”
“I...” Jiang Fengmian gulped and looked away.
“Uncle Jiang – Jiang Zongzhu, where do I stand with the Jiang? Am I Head Disciple or am I not?”
“A-Xian, you must understand. You were not here and we had no news and no idea of when you would return. With everything going on, we needed a Head Disciple.”
“Who did you replace me with?”
“The one who always should have been in that position.” Madam Yu threw the now useless Zidian at his feet. “My son has taken his rightful place.”
“Jiang Cheng?” Wei Wuxian shook his head sadly. “Jiang Cheng, if that's true then it's up to you to convince your Sect Leader to take appropriate action in a crisis.”
“I don't take orders from you, Wei Wuxian.”
“I wasn't giving you an order. There is trouble coming and if you are not ready then it will be disastrous.”
Jiang Cheng looked over at his mother then squared his shoulders. “Mother is right. No-one would dare attack Lotus Pier. We're safe here.”
“You are not.” Lan Wangji spoke calmly but with so much authority that for a moment even Madam Yu wavered.
Jiang Fengmian finally made a choice. It was the wrong one. “I am sure you think so, Lan Wangji, but there is no cause to believe that. As my wife said, we are a Great Sect.”
“As are the Lan. That did not protect us.”
“But that was at Wen Ruohan's orders. With him dead his remaining troops are little more than bandits.”
“Well trained. Ruthless. They may not come today but they will come.” Lan Wangji's certainty was disconcerting.
Jiang Fengmian again tried to condescend. “There is no reason to believe so.”
“Wrong. The alliance between the Nie, the Lan and most minor sects is too strong to risk confrontation. Natural that they would target those without support. Smaller clans first. The Yao, Ouyang, Yu. You are a Great Sect but smaller than the Jin. When no lesser targets remain then they will come.”
It was a good analysis. Jiang Fengmian wanted to disagree, but he made it sound not only likely but also inevitable.
“Father, there's a boat coming.” Jiang Cheng was pointing to a small ornate craft headed for the pier.
Jiang Fengmian frowned then gasped. “That's Sect Leader Yao's personal barge.” He called to some disciples, urging them forward to help the boat dock.
Sect Leader Yao hauled himself out, staggering a few feet to fall in the dust at Jiang Fengmian's feet. “Disaster, disaster, such terrible things have come to pass.”
Jiang Fengmian knelt by his side. “Calm yourself. What has happened?”
“All gone! My sect is destroyed. They came in the night and took everything. My disciples were helpless against them. Why? Why has this happened to me? Ah, if only I had joined the alliance. I heard that when Sect Leader He got word that renegades had been seen on his land Chifeng-Zun marched his entire army to Tingshan to investigate. But I had no-one to help me. No-one. And now it's too late.”
Wei Wuxian turned to Madam Yu. “There is your proof. Will you listen now?”
Madam Yu turned her head away, saying nothing.
Jiang Fengmian stood. “A-Cheng. Call back all of our disciples. Station lookouts and put archers on the roof. We will prepare for an attack.”
“Fengmian! Am I nothing that you would take the word of this brat over me?”
“San-Niang, what choice is there? Lan Wangji is right in what he says. We are not safe and we cannot rely on the Jin for help. I cannot risk the whole sect only because you dislike Wei Wuxian. We must be ready if trouble comes. A-Xian, you will act as A-Cheng's second. We can review the situation once the trouble has passed. For now...”
“No.”
“What do you mean, no?” Madam Yu took a threatening step forward. “Do you expect to come back without any notice and take up your previous position?”
“I don't expect anything from you and you no longer have any right to expect anything from me.” Reaching down he removed his clarity bell and handed it to Jiang Fengmian. "Jiang Zongzhu, I succeed from the Jiang Sect. I wish you well but whatever you decide to do you must do it without me.”
“A-Xian!” Jiang Yanli gasped. “You will leave us now when we need you the most?”
“I no longer have a place in the Jiang Sect, Shijie. Perhaps I never did and am only now realising it. Jiang Zongzhu, I have brought you the warning. That is the last assistance I will give you.”
Without another word he turned and left, Lan Wangji and Baoshan Sanren following close behind.
***
Back in the TARDIS Baoshan Sanren clapped her hands together with glee. “I thought that woman's jaw would dislocate it dropped so far when you walked out. Well done Wuxian. That can't have been easy. If it's any consolation I think you made the right choice.”
“You're right. It wasn't easy but you're also right that it was the right choice.”
“Mn. Wei Ying deserves better.”
“Now that you're free of those people, how would you feel about becoming my Companion? Wangji too of course. What do you say boys? There must be somewhere you want to go, someone you would like to meet? We can go anywhere in any time.”
“We can come with you?”
“I have a duty. I cannot...”
They spoke at the same time, Wei Wuxian breathing sharply at Lan Wangji's denial. If Lan Zhan wouldn't come then what would he do?
“Wangji, you and Wuxian have already helped stop a war from happening. You have saved thousands of lives.” Baoshan Sanren spoke kindly to Lan Wangji. She liked this boy. Both these boys. She very much wanted them as Companions, for them and for her. “What more could be asked of you?”
Lan Wangji was hesitant. He could see that Wei Wuxian wanted this but all his life Lan Wangji had been told he had a duty. To his sect, to his family. He was the heir, the Second Jade of Lan. How could he ignore that to follow his own desires? He shook his head. “I cannot. Cloud Recesses was burnt down. Now that our task is complete I am needed. My brother...”
“Time Machine, child. Remember?” Baoshan Sanren nudged him. “You could travel with me for a decade and I could still have you back only days after you left.”
“There, see, Lan Zhan? You wouldn't be taking anything from anyone.”
“Wei Ying could still go, even if I chose to remain.”
“No, Lan Zhan. I couldn't. Not without you. I don't know what this is between us but I do know that I want to explore what we have. If you still feel the same...”
“I have not changed. Wei Ying is my Zhiji.”
Wei Wuxian smiled. “That's how I feel too. Lan Zhan, I won't force you, but please, don't reject this just because you feel you have to. It's not a bad thing to want something for yourself. And we could do so much. Do you remember our promise Lan Zhan? To stand with justice and live without regrets? And I know, in my heart, that if we do not do this, I will regret it for the rest of my life. I think you would too.”
To stand for justice, to help people and live without regrets. Yes, that is what he had promised. Could it really be possible? Because Wei Ying was right. No-one would be hurt by this. No-one would lose anything. His brother wouldn't even know he was gone. It was terrifying for him to live outside the rules but he would not be alone. He would have Wei Ying by his side and Baoshan Sanren to guide them. They could learn so much and help so many. To live without regret.
Lan Wangji looked at the twin looks of hope directed at him. This, too, was new for him. To be wanted. Only his brother had ever shown him this level of understanding. For everyone else, even his uncle, acceptance was conditional. Always, he had done what was expected of him but to make this choice? This would be for him. What he wanted. And he did want this. Quite desperately. Could he take this one thing for himself? To live without regret. That's what it came down to in the end.
His lips tilted up in the tiniest of smiles, decision made. “I will come.”
***
Notes:
In a sense, this is like the pilot episode of a new series. This part of the story is now complete. Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian have agreed to become Companions and will go on many adventures. I will probably write further stories in this universe, adding them on the end of this one as I think of them. They will be complete stories in themselves much as with the Doctor Who series. So, if anyone has anywhere they want them to go, drop me a line and I'll start a list.
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wangxianficrecs · 15 days ago
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Follower Recs
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The Metaphorical Night Before the Metaphorical Dawn
by mlevy673
G, 1k, Wangxian
Summary: “This is Little Apple,” Wei Wuxian says. Neither Jin Ling nor Jiang Cheng say anything, continuing to stare at Wei Wuxian with incredulity. “Look,” Wei Wuxian says nervously, “Lan Zhan said that he loved me and wanted to date me. Two hours ago, I thought he despised me.” He then shrugs as if to emphasize his point. As if that ‘point’ explains anything. “So you bought a donkey,” Jiang Cheng says. “Yes, I bought Li’l Apple.” “Jin Ling, stop gawking and close your mouth.” - Wei Wuxian has a moment of panic. Jin Ling and Jiang Cheng have to deal with it.
~*~
the shapes a bright container can contain
by litbynosun (@coldwind-shiningstars)
M, 16k, Wangxian
Summary: "Lan Zhan, look at this," Wei Wuxian calls. "They don't have organs, but they're all… fuzzy." He gently strokes the corpse's arm -- it's covered in soft, pigmentless downy hair, like a rabbit. Lan Wangji crouches next to him and nods. "Lanugo," he says. Wei Wuxian raises one eyebrow. "They were malnourished for quite a while before death," Lan Wangji elaborates. Wei Wuxian scans the bodies again. Indeed, they both have sunken cheeks, and their abdomens are empty of both organs and fat padding. “That’s a question,” he says. “Did they starve to death, and have their bodies desecrated after they were already deceased? Or were they murdered, and simply starving at the same time?” "We should stay," Lan Wangji tells him. This is not an answer to his question. It is an offer to search for answers. Or: Wei Wuxian and his family solve a ghost haunting. Wei Wuxain's old enemy, societal injustice, rears its head again.
~*~
The (Several) Convenient Kidnappings of the Chief Cultivator by the Yiling Patriarch
by misscam (@misscamthenorwegian)
M, 3k, Wangxian
Summary: “Yes, Clan Leader Jiang. It is most regrettable, but the Yiling Patriarch has once again kidnapped His Excellency. However, we have every confidence in His Excellency’s safe eventual return.” “Of course you do,” Jiang Cheng says bitterly. “You get a more agreeable Chief Cultivator, and everyone is happy, right? You are all so happy the Yiling Patriarch kidnaps the Chief Cultivator on a regular basis. How can you not delight in the fact that Wei Wuxian has no shame and is revered for it? Aren’t you all thrilled, thrilled, that Lan Wangji is such good friends with Wei Wuxian that they spend so many friendly nights together and His Excellency returns like a lovesick fool afterwards and is so conveniently more agreeable?” “…” “I hate you all,” Jiang Cheng declares and stomps off.
~*~
your name, safe in their mouth
by astrolesbian
G, 10k, Wangxian
Summary: “You’ve got a fever,” Wei Wuxian says soothingly. “You just keep still as well as you can. We’ll have you fixed up soon.” Lan Sizhui recognizes his tone—this is the voice that Wei Wuxian uses on hurt people and young children, a very calm and no-nonsense voice that has none of the mischief and cheer of the way he sounds the rest of the time. Lan Sizhui looks up and meets his eyes, and they are dark, stormy gray, muddled and concerned. “I’m all right,” he croaks. “Hush,” Wei Wuxian says, in a low croon, like someone quieting a baby. Then he blinks, and looks away, awkward. “I mean—you shouldn’t speak. You’re tired. Rest if you need to.” — lan sizhui gets sick on a night hunt. wei wuxian comforts him. they both have a lot of feelings about it.
~*~
🔒 the cow says moo, the chicken says squawk, and the demon beast of yiling says
by Dragonskye (@chellewing)
T, 57k, Wangxian
Summary: If Lan Wangji had been asking for reasons of fame or money or power (not that he was suffering a shortage of any of those attributes) that would have been one thing. But siblings were a different story entirely. If Jiang Cheng and Yanli were sick, then Wei Wuxian probably would have done just about anything to get those flowers. "Huh," Wei Wuxian said. "Alright, you can have them." Lan Wangji's eyes went wide, and Wei Wuxian choked. "I mean-! You can have them if you become my prisoner forever!" --- In which Lan Wangji, famed Second Jade of Lan, is not actually taken captive by the fearsome Demon Beast of Yiling. But for some reason, he stays anyways.
~*~
(Please REBLOG as a signal boost for these hard-working authors if you like – or think others might like – these stories.)
55 notes · View notes
wangxianficfinder · 5 months ago
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In the mood for...
Sep 15th
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1. hi, hope you’re doing well.
i’m looking for post-canon fic recs with wangxian living in their own home (not at the cloud recesses)
or they could be travelling cultivators like songxiao.
thank you in advance 💖
❤️ Attempting the Impossible by Ariaste for williedustice (T, 36k, WangXian, JC & WWX, Post-Canon, Yunmeng Bros Reconciliation, Adoption, Family Fluff, Kid fic, Family drama, Fluff, 🔒[PODFIC] Attempting the Impossible by Ariaste by lunatique)
🔒To heal and nurture by Aki_no_hikari (G, 11k, WangXian, Post-Canon, Memories, Married Couple, Domestic Fluff, Festivals, Healing, Trauma Recovery, Light Angst)
~*~
2. hello, do you have fic recs for yunmeng jiang head disciple wwx? him being a mentor, a kind and reassuring presence by his juniors’ side.
Dispersing Clouds by dreamingofcake (E, 283k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Genius WWX, Inventor WWX, Not Jiang Family Friendly, Abusive YZY, Canonical Child Abuse, Hurt/Comfort, Slow Burn, Eventual Sex, Implied/Referenced Self-Harm (Background Character), Background Character Deaths, child deaths, Canon JC, Good Uncle LQR, Accidental Baby Acquisition, Cultivation Sect Politics, Homophobia, Heteronormativity, Feelings Realization, WWX is Not Oblivious) WWX does quit the Jiang sect in this one, but the earlier chapters do show him going about his duties as head disciple & generally being good at it
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3. hi! ITMF wangxian fic where wwx is a clan leader of the wen remnants, preferably finished:D i dont mind any lenght or rating @brokensvndown
body and soul by TooSel (E, 41k, wangxian, Canon Divergence, Fix-It, Marriage Proposal, Everyone Lives AU, Cultivation Sect Politics, Yílíng Wèi Sect AU, Adoption, Smut, Friends to Lovers, Angst with a Happy Ending)
Grave dirt by esama (T, 92k, WangXian, canon divergence, yiling wei sect au, demonic cultivation, farming, found family, pre-slash, politics, fix-it of sorts)
~*~
4. ITMF request! I guess this falls under CQL/Untamed than the novel, but I'd love any fics where WWX gets found/raised by/raised with Xiao Xingchen (and/or Song Lan!). AUs okay but please no Jiang bashing. Thank you so much for all you do for us!!!!
Become Tomorrow by ShanaStoryteller (Not rated, 39k, wangxian, BSSR/LY, Alternate Universe, a story full of tragic pining gays, and one chaotic gremlin, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, WWX is BSSR’s disciple) link in #15A has WWX as BSSR's disciple and XXC shows up later in the fic
Frost moon's sun by RenaFair (T, 116k, WangXian, XXC/SL, Slow Build, Childhood Sweethearts, Angst and Feels, Fluff, Family Feels, Canon Divergence, Mentions of Smut, Attempt at Humor) link in #15A
I Will Call You By Name by DisasterMages (T, 73k, WangXian, WWX raised by XXC, Canon Divergence, Family Feels)
~*~
5. I'm looking for fics where wwx is assaulted (SEXUALLY OR NON SEXUALLY, DOESN'T MATTER) and there's AFTERMATH AND PUNISHMENT for the assailants.
Last time I asked, a single fic was rec'ed. After that I went to Ao3 to filter search myself. But I was disappointed by a lot. Under r*pe/non- con (rape) tag it's actually pwp fics. Under aftermath tagged fics, there's isn't actually any aftermath , like one I read was so unrealistic and.... that it hurt.
Please help.
🧡 Heaven Has No Rage by flipfloppandas (M, 51k, WWX & YZY, JFM/YZY,  implied wangxian, WWX/WC, WWX/others, rape/non-con, modern, hurt/comfort, protective YZY, good parent YZY, hospitals, medical procedures, vomiting, trauma) Madam Yu finds WWX in the aftermath of SA, and stays with him thru the hospital visit and talking to detectives. Ends with her being determined to fuck his attackers up, has lots of good bonding moments as she makes up for her bad parenting and gets protective of him. Very emotional and cathartic, 10/10
a rumination of things by AvoOwO (M, 89k, WangXian, JC & WWX, JC & LWJ, LWJ & LQR, LXC & LWJ, LQR & WWX, JC & NHS & WWX, NHS & LWJ, Graphic Depictions of Violence, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, Fluff and Angst, Cutesy, LWJ Has a Crush, POV LWJ, Protective LWJ, Pining LWJ, LWJ Has Feelings, Courting Rituals, Non-Consensual Drug Use, Poisoning, Dorks in Love, Love Confessions, First Kiss, Mind Manipulation, Manipulation, JC & LWJ Dislike Each Other, Good Sibling JC, Rabbits, Feels, Emotional Hurt, Supportive LXC, Good Uncle LQR, LQR Metaphorically Qi-Deviates, Blushing, Fainting, Soft WangXian, Cute WangXian, Laughter, Dubious Consent, Kissing, Feelings Realization, Hurt/Comfort, Hurt WWX, Hurt LWJ, Blood and Injury, Blood and Violence, Canon-Typical Violence, Drowning, Torture, Threats of Violence, Death Threats, Choking, Stabbing, Major Character Injury, Smart LWJ, Smart WWX, Murder, Kidnapping, Gags, Vomiting, Literal Sleeping Together, WWX Has PTSD, Food Issues, Sharing Clothes, Hair Brushing, Hair Braiding, Heavy Angst with a Happy Ending, Holding Hands, Angry WWX, Protectiveness, Caretaking, Crying, Food as a Metaphor for Love, the mortifying idea of being known, Suicidal Thoughts, Angry LWJ, Night Hunts, Protective JC, WWX Has Issues, Aftermath of Violence, Blood and Gore, Cannibalism, Graphic Description of Corpses, Corpse Desecration, Trauma, Body Horror, Cannibalistic Thoughts, Case Fic, Dead CSSR, Memories, Emotions, Past Child Abuse, Canon Divergence, Painting, Temporary Amnesia, Date Rape Drug/Roofies, Drink Spiking, Victim Blaming, WWX is a Mess, Politics, Protective LXC, Good Sibling LXC, LQR Tries, It Gets Worse Before It Gets Better, WWX Needs a Hug, someone gets punched a lot, LWJ contemplates murder for a moment, JC almost gets it done, not quite about romance as much as romance elements there, more so about the small things, LWJ loves how WWX smells, some nasty things are said, WWX def needs a nap, he gets one dw, LQR Gets Shit Done, NHS is a Little Shit, Scheming NHS)
Silenced by Tasharene (M, 63k, WangXian, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Rape/Non-Con, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, PTSD, Temporary Blindness, Aversion to touch, Fear of crowds, Panic Attacks, Post-Canon, WWX Whump, Hurt WWX, Whump, Angst with a Happy Ending, world-class troll LXC, see the archive Warnings BEFORE you accuse me of not tagging things!!!)
And Time Is But a Paper Moon by sami (M, 138k, WangXian, XiChengQing, Time Travel, Fix-It, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies, Healing, Mental Health Issues, PTSD, Hurt/Comfort, Depression, BAMF WWX, BAMF JC, BAMF LWJ, BAMF JYL, Getting Together) There's an arc from Ch. 28-33 where WWX is temporarily kidnapped and tortured. Chapter 28 includes the initial attack and some very swift justice/revenge, followed in Chapter 33 by further apology & recompense. Intervening chapters are wwx receiving medical attention and recovering. I also suggest trying the "Rape Recovery" tag if you haven't already.
Dream a little dream of me by Moominmammashandbag (M, 60k, WangXian, SangYu, Prison, Hair Washing, Hurt/Comfort, Fluff and Angst, mentions of torture, Mention of dismemberment, Coming Out, Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety Attacks, goose!NMJ, Reincarnation, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Implied/Referenced Incest, Dreamwalking, Angst with a Happy Ending, JZX Lives) instead of being dead, wwx is imprisoned & tortured under koi tower during the timeskip. he's rescued and heals and there's a big trial at the end where he (& nmj) get justice.
clean from the war (your heart fits like a key) by sysrae (E, 28k, WangXian, Modern AU, Reunions, past xy/wwx, xy is fucked up but not evil because it's a modern AU and I said so, Hurt/Comfort, Panic Attacks, past wwx/jfm, Past Rape/Non-con, Past Abuse, Rape Recovery, transphobic violence, Victim Blaming, Past wwx/others, allusions to past self-harm) tagged past jfm/wwx (wwx runs away and has trauma)
I searched for another fic but couldn't find it--wwx gets drunk and gets taken advantage of but thinks he has cheated on lwj and is broken up about it. It had very well-written exploration of both wwx and lwj figuring it out.
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6. Hello,
Do you know any lwj-critical fics?
Not condemning but discussing his inactions when he was actually known for being stubborn and "righteous".
Something like that. Itmf
Thank you!
New Perspective by mrcformoso (T, 8k, WangXian, LSZ & LWJ, Major Character Death, Angst, Hopeful Ending, Fatherhood, Regrets, Flashbacks, POV LWJ, LWJ-centric, Canonical Character Death - WWX, Pining LWJ, LWJ Has Feelings, LWJ Needs a Hug, Character Development, Dead WWX, LWJ deals with the death of his love, And learns to be a father along the way, Introspection, Feelings, LWJ is Bad at Feelings, Character Study, WWX’s death in The Untamed was too raw, Regretful LWJ, Breaking Toxic Cycles, Canon Compliant, LWJ in Seclusion, Post-LWJ in Seclusion, Child LSZ) does being critical of himself count? Hahaha
Arrayed by FirefliesNLightningBugs (M, 5k, wangxian, angst w/ happy ending, LSZ found by LXC, LSZ keeps his memories, alive JYL & JZX, canon temporary character death, WIP) kinda does this with an outsider pov referencing how lz tried to report true info and take action but he wasn't believed and prevented from acting (with the outsider pov of lxc slowly realizing that lz had the right of it)
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7. Hello, this is for ITMF, are there any fics where WWX is a doctor or a health professional? It can be both modern or not. I have read one before, and hopefully there are more. Thank you 😊. @suibianxjiangui
Anginal Equivalents by fakeplasticlily (E, 23k, WangXian, Modern, Medical Residents AU, Childhood Friends, Mutual Pining, Oblivious WWX, Sexual Content, Podfic Available)
🧡 Like a House on Fire by KouriArashi (T, 82k, WangXian, Modern au, Paramedics, Firefighters, Light angst, Mutual pining, Kid fic, Past drug use, Past child abuse, Families of choice, Domestic fluff)
trust your fingertips by plonk (Not Rated, 15k, WangXian, Aphrodisiacs, Medical Kink, Canon Era, Different First Meeting)
plant a little happiness (let the roots run deep) by fleurdeliser (E, 47k, WangXian, Modern AU, Car Accidents, Implied/Referenced Alcohol Abuse/Alcoholism, Non-Explicit References to Injuries and Death, References to Addiction, Doctors & Physicians, Falling In Love, soft romance, background 3zun, [Podfic of] plant a little happiness (let the roots run deep) by knight_tracer)
To lurk, to lie in wait by trippednfell (M, 124k, WangXian, Modern AU, strangers to co-parents to lovers, Strangers to Lovers, Kid Fic, teenage juniors, background NieLan, Angst with a Happy Ending, Case Fic, Implied/Referenced Suicide, Hurt/Comfort, Implied/Referenced Character Death, Not Really Character Death, If there is main character death it's very temporary, Fox Spirit WWX, Dragon LWJ, Blood and Injury, Additional Warnings In Author's Note)
Nursery Rhymes by manaika (M, 96k, WangXian, NieLan, Modern AU, Inexperienced WWX, Experienced LWJ, Reconciliation, Budding Love, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Unreliable Narrator, Medical Inaccuracies, Slow Burn, Past Character Death, Childhood Trauma, Found Family, Past Injury, Nurse! WWX, Doctor! LXC, Teacher! LWJ, Character With A Heart Condition (Major), Past Incarceration (Major Character), Underage Character With Leukemia (Minor))
To Deliver an Heir by cerbykerby (E, 49k, WangXian, slight dubcon/noncon but wangxian are into it, A/B/O, Alpha LWJ, Omega WWX, Heat Sex, Knotting, Royalty Medical, Emperor LWJ, Physician WWX, Mpreg, Postpartum Depression, Breeding, Creampie, LWJ literally cannot stop himself from coming in WWX, Breastfeeding)
Eyes by SplitGirl28 (M, 60k, WangXian, WIP, Adopted WWX, Adopted by Doctor, WWX Isn't Adopted by the Jiangs, Cultivator Apothecary WWX, No Golden Core Transfer, Meet Different, WWX has a secret, Secret BAMF WWX, Pining LWJ, Oblivious WWX, WangXian Get a Happy Ending)
Operation Old Men by Chiharu (Not Rated, 37k, WangXian, JL & LJY & LSZ, JYL/JZX, Modern, Boarding School, Single Parents, Everyone Is Alive, Matchmaking, Family Dynamics, Hospitals, Meet the Family, Family Vacation, Weddings, School Reunion, Happy Ending)
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8. Hii , im currently ITMF a fic where lwj and wwx have a heated fight or a fic where they have a nasty breakup in their teen. Thank you
Tempo Rubato by Spodumene (E, 108k, wangxian, modern, angst w/ happy ending, romance, persuasion au, separations, pining, miscommunication, depression, self-harm, reconciliation, smut)
Couldn’t Scream Couldn’t Shout by mermorgie (T, 42k, WangXian, LXC & WWX, LXC & LWJ, LQR & WWX, JZX & WWX, WWX & NHS, LWJ & NHS, WIP, Not for JC stans, Muteness, Sign Language, references to selective mutism, Homophobic JC, canon JC characteristics, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Anxiety Attacks, Pining, LWJ is a Panicked Gay, Supportive Sibling LXC, JZX Tries, LQR Tries, Protective JZX, Scheming NHS, Bisexual JZX, LWJ is Bad at Communicating, WWX Has ADHD, Autistic LWJ, WWX Has a Fear of Dogs, Jiang Family Bashing)
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9. Hi! Firstly, thank you for all you do, I've got so many of my favourite fics from looking through your posts! Secondly, for the next ITMF, I'd love to read something about post-resurrection wwx finding out about lwj's punishment and going OFF at the lan elders. Preferably not too lxc bashing but i'm not too fussed. Bonus points if it's pre-wangxian and wwx's yllz-esque rage on his behalf *does things* for lwj @scenicpixie
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10. Hi so I'm looking for a fic that has wwx kind of doing gymnastics not in a modern era but like he's super flexible and he does kind of something like gymnastics to dodge or in a fight I just want him to do gymnastics too you know impress everyone not like he's showing off it's just that he's doing it because he wants to I don't know I thought it would be a great idea for a fact that I really wanted to read one if you can find one that would be great
The Darkness Before Dawn by PsycheStellata707 (M, 113k, WIP, WangXian, Angst with a Happy Ending, Time Travel Fix-It, Canon Divergence, BAMF WWX, Time Travel, Attempt at Humor, PTSD, Oblivious WWX, WWX-centric, Blind WWX, Sentient Burial Mounds, Self-Indulgent, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies, Oblivious Pining, Not Canon Compliant) flexible wwx dancer moves to fight, I think darkness before the dawn on ao3 is the one where he's raised by a traveling performer group and incorporates fan dancing and other skills into his own martial art style. In it wwx is blind and its a time travel fix it, where "the price of seeing the future is the inability of seeing the present"
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11. hello! I think this qualifies as fic finder? (ITMF is probably better because I don't really know the specifics or what fic I'm looking for exactly). I just remember scrolling passed it in once in the old ITMF posts where it's a !nie WWX in modern setting. So just give some recs of !nie WWX not on the non-yummeng wwx compilation list if possible because I've read all those (both canon and modern setting are okay!), thank you!! :D
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12. hi, i’m looking for fanfics
a) where wwx is kicked out from lotus pier after punching jzx
b) wwx is best friend with nie huaisang and jwy behaves like in canon
c) people discover madam yu’s abuse on wwx
12A)
Cultivating immortality by KizuKatana (E, 231k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Rogue Cultivator WWX, Mutual Pining, BAMF WWX, BAMF LWJ, Angst with a Happy Ending, Hurt/Comfort, unreliable narrator, Found Family, First Time, novel canon relationship dynamics)
🔒 crying like a fire in the sun by Reverie (cl410) (T, 10k, WangXian, SongXiao, BSSR/LY, Runaway WWX, Canon Divergence, Everyone Lives/Nobody Die, rogue cultivator WWX, Angst, Post Cloud Recesses, Not YZY Friendly, Happy Ending, BSSR is WWX’s grandmother instead of grandmaster) link in #15A
💖 Xiao-Ying of the Third Refugee Village by abCEE (T, 31k, wangxian, WWX banished from Jiang sect, not Jiang friendly, found family, mpreg, fluff, flirting)
12C)
🔒🧡 rain falls and soaks into the earth series by RoseThorne (T, 57k, WangXian, WIP, Near Death Experience, Attempt Drowning, Madam Yu Bashing, Recovery, No war AU)
🧡 To have and to hold by Moominmammashandbag (M, 78k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Major character injury, CQL verse, Happy Ending)
🔒🧡 Company by WithBroomBefore (T, 29k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Pre-Relationship, Getting Together, POV LWJ, Fix-It, Pre-Canon, at least to start, WWX goes to Cloud Recesses, But Not In The Usual Way, fear of character death, Everybody Lives, Hurt/Comfort, Happy Ending, Light Angst, good teacher LQR, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, brief discussion of past minor character suicide, Kitten, Not YZY Friendly)
🔒 Warming up (to him) by barisan (T, 9k, LQR & WWX, WangXian, Hypothermia, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, Temporary Character Death, Medical Inaccuracies, YZY Abuses WWX, JFM Bashing, pre-wangxian, Good Uncle LQR, Angst with a Happy Ending, Hurt/Comfort)
🔒💙 Holding shreds by barisan (T, 5k, WangXian, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, No Sunshot Campaign, Body Swap, Not for sexy shenanigans, Chronic Pain, Hurt WWX, Hurt LWJ, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Abusive YZY, Bad Parent YZY,  Bad Parent JFM, Good Uncle LQR, Hurt/Comfort, Medical Inaccuracies, POV WWX, Angst with a Happy Ending, Jiāng Family Bashing, Tooth-Rotting Fluff, Getting Together, Smart WWX)
Like stones on an unseen board by Vir_Abelasan (Not rated, 11k, wangxian, Canon Divergence, Dark LWJ, Older LWJ, Teacher LWJ, dark twin jades, Age Difference, Manipulation, Protective LWJ, Implied/Referenced Abuse, Corporal Punishment, Relatively canon-typical abusive Jiangs, WWX Get a Happy Ending, WangXian Get a Happy Ending, Not JC Friendly, Not Jiang Clan Friendly)
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13. do you have any recs for fics with wangxian exploring intimacy and/or sex together? i read a really good modern au fic about it but i was wondering if there are ones set in the canon universe. tysm!
To Know, To Be Known series by cqlorphan (E, 38k, wangxian, Cock Warming, Multiple Orgasms, Marathon Sex, Under-negotiated Kink, Porn with Feelings, Aftercare, Dom/sub Undertones, Established Relationship, let LWJ get railed agenda, LWJ Learns Some Things about himself, sex tears, gratuitous use of names, Begging, Kink Discovery, Post-Canon, Bottom LWJ/Top WWX, Top LWJ/Bottom WWX, Switching, Light Bondage, Blow Jobs, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Let wwx get tied up but also let lwj railed, Repressed LWJ, and his journey to sexual abandon aided by, Inventor WWX, Cock Rings, Angst and Fluff and Smut, Dirty Talk, Rough Sex, Dildos, Rimming, Edging)
the hidden source is the watchful heart by o_honeybees (E, 10k, WangXian, Post-Canon, Getting Together, Domesticity, Touch-Starved, Grief/Mourning, Misunderstandings, Non-Sexual Intimacy, Unresolved Sexual Tension,Eventual Smut, reflections on selfishness and selflessness)
hunters seeking solid ground by Attila (E, 23k, wangxian, Canon Compliant, discussion of canon character death, Hurt/Comfort, Nightmares, bed sharing, Getting Together, Yearning, Literal Sleeping Together, Really Excessive Amounts of Hurt/Comfort)
Tripped at Every Step by brooklinegirl (E, 28k, WangXian)
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14. Hello, can anyone give me some recs of canon divergences that start after Wei Wuxian’s 3 months in the burial mounds? Thanks! :) ♡ @menimimimeni
🔒 A Heart Undying by NonsensicalRambling (M, 114k, WangXian, Undead WWX, Canon-Typical Violence, canon-typical dead things the burial mounds, Fix-It of Sorts, Canon Divergence, Eventual WangXian, No Yīn Tiger Seal, Morally Gray WWX, Animals Eating People, WWX’s questionable choices, Morally conflicted LWJ, Oblivious WWX, WWX Creates a Sect | Yiling Wei, YLLZ WWX, Sect Leader WWX, LWJ & WQ have an Understanding) WWX dies in the Burial Mounds & is undead
we’re starting at the end by Miss_Enthusiasimal (M, 92k, WangXian, JC & WWX, Time Travel, Canon Divergence, Implied/Referenced Suicide, Golden Core Reveal, Burial Mounds, Hurt/Comfort, Angst, Starvation, emaciation, Cannibalism, Self-Harm, Amputation, Suicidal Thoughts, Sunshot Campaign, let JZX and WWX be friends club) WWX time travels without realising to when he was thrown into the Burial Mounds, & thinks he's dead, so instead of leaving on his own he's rescued by LWJ & JC
Return to Me by Dragon_Scribe (T, 1k, WangXian, Graphic Depictions of Violence, Fierce Corpse WWX, Angst, Music, Violence, Blood and Gore, Crying LWJ) WWX dies in the Burial Mounds & emerges as a fierce corpse
🔒 Heart of hearts series by apathyinreverie (M, 40k, WangXian, Dark LWJ(Ish), Amnesia, WWX gets to be Not Okay after the BM, Hurt WWX, Recovery, Caring, Protective LWJ, Possessive LWJ, some definite manipulation but not everything is as it seems, not nearly as dark as the tags make it sound, Canon Divergence, Golden Core Reveal, Golden Core Transfer Fix-It Kind Of, Domestic WangXian, Fluff, WWX Goes to Gusu, Possessive WWX, WWX happily atticwifing away, Sunshot Campaign, BAMF WWX, BAMF LWJ, ridiculously self-indulgent, Not Cultivation World Friendly)
Cloudy Memories Recessed by FirefliesNLightningBugs (M, 7k, WIP, JC & JYL & WWX, Adopted Sibling Relationship, Sunshot Campaign, Good Person JZX, Good Sibling JC, Good Sibling JYL, Amnesia, (kind of), Weird Magic, Demonic Cultivation, post wwx disappearing during sunshot campaign, POV Alternating, POV JC, POV JYL, POV WWX) cloudy memories recessed is a diverging au after wwx escapes bm. Wip where he comes out not fully aware of his surroundings and is initially mistaken as a fierce corpse by cultivators cause he's in such bad shape
Tether by WithBroomBefore (T, 40k, WangXian, SangLi, WWX’s passive suicidality, Canon Divergence, Somebody Lives/Not Everyone Dies, WWX Lives, JYL Lives, Golden Core Reveal, Minor Character Death, Canon-Typical Violence, POV JYL, Grief/Mourning, Sunshot Campaign, Healing, Hurt/Comfort, Family Feels, LWJ makes friends, Fix-It, Happy Ending)
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15. A) Hello mods! Thank you for being absolute gems and doing this all! Itmf fics where wei wuxian is/used to be baoshan sanren's disciple, got raised by SongXiao (one or both), wasnt adopted by anyone/raised on the streets on his own and was raised by the Wen clan/wen ruohan himself. thank you!
B) OMG i forgot to add this one and sent my previous ask ugh but also wangxian in opposing roles AUs...like police/criminal, doctor/patient, teacher/student, lawyers for two parties on the same case etc
P.S. yes, i am looking for fics of all the above mentioned types! @yiling-laozu-is-loml
15A)
Heliocentric by Coolio101 (T, 8k, WangXian, in which WWX is born as part of the Wen Sect, Mutual Pining, LWJ and JC are friends....kind of, Wen Sect WWX, Fix-It, LWJ has zero chill and is always 2 sec away from throwing hands, but that's basically canon, also WRH is still an asshole, so if you were expecting redemption fic this might not be for you, Canon Divergence)
Sunset, Sunrise by Ariana Deralte (ArianaDeralte) (T, 57k, WWX & WRH, WangXian, WIP, Time Travel Fix-It, Crack, Temporary Character Death, sorry I killed a-Yuan for a few paragraphs before the time travel, WWX is a Wen, Genius WWX, WRH gets to rewatch the series as a treat, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, in this house we acknowledge that all the sects have flaws, Implied/Referenced Sexual Assault, WWX Has ADHD, Bad Parents JFM & YZY, Implied/Referenced Suicide, Autistic LWJ)
Scars of Lightning by The_peregrine_falcon (T, 6k, YZY & WWX, WWX & WRH, WangXian, YZY’s A+ Parenting, Canon Divergence, Not Canon Compliant, Wen WWX, zidian, YZY is a bitch, Canon-Typical Violence, Blood and Injury, Major Character Injury, Heavy Angst, Lotus Pier, Nightless City, Young WWX, Muteness, Hurt kind of comfort)
All Things Belong by kuroi_atropos (M, 65k, WRH & WWX, wangxian, WN & WWX, Wen WWX, abuse, whipping, manipulations, smart WWX, possessive behavior, implied/Referenced rape/non-con, past rape/non-con, WIP) Wen Ruohan realizes teen Wei Ying is his grandson & tries to lure him from the Jiang
A Thousand Things by tickertape (M, 108k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, WWX Isn’t Adopted by the Jiāngs, Developing Friendships, lots of OCs, miscommunication and misunderstandings (they’re idiots your honor), Nightmares, Hurt/Comfort, Panic Attacks, Cloud Recesses Shenanigans, Slow Burn)
Frost moon's sun by RenaFair (T, 116k, WangXian, XXC/SL, Slow Build, Childhood Sweethearts, Angst and Feels, Fluff, Family Feels, Canon Divergence, Mentions of Smut, Attempt at Humor)
Become Tomorrow by ShanaStoryteller (Not rated, 39k, wangxian, BSSR/LY, Alternate Universe, a story full of tragic pining gays, and one chaotic gremlin, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, WWX is BSSR’s disciple)
Going on charmingly by scribbet (T, 21k, WangXian, Teenage LWJ, Cloud Recesses Shenanigans, Cloud Recesses Study Arc, WWX is BSSR’s Disciple, Genius WWX, Petty LWJ, Meddling LXC, What if LWJ didn’t have an excuse to instantly write WWX off?, Canon Divergence, JFM Doesn’t Adopt WWX, WWX minus canon sense of obligation, but still with an inability to shut up around LWJ, I swear LWJ’s inner voice was no quite so snarky when I started this, JZN is unfortunately present but only to lose face, LQR’s inconsistent adherence to the Lan clan precepts, writing the effective Lan education you would like to see in the world, Technically pre-relationship, but in the typical Wangxian way of them being in deep but just not acknowledging it yet, POV LWJ)
🔒 crying like a fire in the sun by Reverie (cl410) (T, 10k, WangXian, SongXiao, BSSR/LY, Runaway WWX, Canon Divergence, Everyone Lives/Nobody Die, rogue cultivator WWX, Angst, Post Cloud Recesses, Not YZY Friendly, Happy Ending, BSSR is WWX’s grandmother instead of grandmaster) Bonus: Wei Ying gets kicked out of the Jiang's & he learns BS is his grandmother
15B)
mission report by bosbie (T, 13k, WangXian, Modern AU, superhero AU, Fluff, Humor, Getting Together, First Meetings, Falling in love, Spanish Translation)
Wei Wuxian, worst supervillain by antebunny (G, 3k, WangXian, WWX & WQ, WWX & WN, Modern, Superheroes/Superpowers, Fluff, Attempt at Humor, Light Angst, Tooth-Rotting Fluff, Crack Treated Seriously, superhero LWJ, supervillain WWX, but it's stupid)
This Tornado Loves You by FeelsForBreakfast (M, 8k, WangXian, Horror, modern cultivation au, Pizza Hut, Humor, Mistaken Identity, Modern with Magic)
Fight Me? by Witch_Nova221 (G, 5k, WangXian, Romantic Comedy, Hospitals, patient LWJ, Nurse WWX, Medication, Minor burns, under the influence of medication, Funny, Silly)
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16. Hello! I just want to start off by saying you’re doing a thankless job running this blog so seriously thank you for helping us poor folk. I was wondering though if you have any possible possessive or possibly simp Lan Zhan fic recs? I want that man to be obsessed with his husband. Please and thank you 🙏 😭
🔒 At heart by apathyinreverie (M, 36k, WangXian, WIP, Dark LWJ(Ish), Amnesia, WWX gets to be Not Okay after the BM, Hurt WWX, Recovery, Caring, Protective LWJ, Possessive LWJ, some definite manipulation, but not everything is as it seems, not nearly as dark as the tags make it sound, Canon Divergence, Golden Core Revea, Golden Core Transfer Fix-It, kind of, Domestic WangXian, Fluff, WWX Goes to Gusu, Possessive WWX, WWX happily atticwifing away, Sunshot Campaign, BAMF WWX, BAMF LWJ)
Do not take that which does not belong to you by Selene210 (E, 7k, WangXian, LSZ & WWX & LWJ, dark LWJ, YLLZ WWX, Canon Divergence, Protective LWJ, Possessive LWJ, Jealous LWJ, Possessive Behavior, Possessive Sex, Kidnapping, Murder, Blood and Violence, WangXian married and have a son, Explicit Sexual Content, Biting, Marathon Sex, Multiple Orgasms, Bath Sex, Rimming, Anal Sex, Anal Fingering, WWX has an angry LWJ kink, WWX Has a Breeding Kink, Wangxian canon breeding kink, LWJ’s canon massive dick)
🔒💖 Advisable Lan rules and other shenanigans by apathyinreverie (G, 4k, WangXian, Humor, Canon Divergence, Fix-It, as in utterly unapologetic fix-it fluffiness, Drunk LWJ, exasperated WWX, Smitten LWJ, Soft WWX, Gusu Lan Sect Rules, Possessive LWJ, In Vino Veritas, Drunk Shenanigans, Fluff, Перевод на русский | Translation in Russian)
🔒 Something is wrong with A-Zhan! by HeloSoph (M, 15k, WangXIan, Graphic Depictions of Violence, Major Character Death, Underage, Canon Divergence, Time Travel Fix-It, Sort Of, Dark LWJ, Morally Gray WWX, Fluff and Hurt/Comfort, WWX Isn't Adopted by the Jiangs, WWX is a Lan, WangXian Get a Happy Ending, JC Bashing, Smitten LWJ, Possessive LWJ, Engaged WangXian, because of course, though this part comes later, Blood and Violence, a lot of people die, LQR Metaphorically Qi-Deviates, because of, Shameless LWJ, LQR Tries, to fit into the following tag, Good Uncle LQR, Semi-Public Sex, or at least wangxian's version of it, Scheming NHS, POV NHS)
A Matter of Time series by mrcformoso (E, 84k, wangxian, time travel fix-it, graphic depictions of violence, underage, LWJ pov, JC pov, dark LWJ, manipulation, grooming, teen body adult mind for LWJ, happy ending for wangxian, problematic consensual underage sex, blood & violence, insane LWJ, manic LWJ) Read all the tags and warnings!
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17. Hi, itmf fics that explore wwx belief that he won't ever get a family of his own (due to position in Jiang household, social status etc) and his cottagecore fantasies.
Thank you!
🧡 Stunted, Starving Juvenility by TomatenMark (E, 859k, WangXian, WIP, Fix-it of sorts, Talisman master WWX, Not JFM Friendly, Study Arc, Getting together, Fluff and Angst, Engagement) There's a few scenes in the early chapters where WWX ponders how LWJ is out of his league due to their relative statuses & that he'd rather not marry at all if it was someone other than LWJ
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If you didn’t get an answer to your ask here, don’t forget to make use of @mdzs-kinkmeme and MDZS KINK MEME on Dreamwidth. Authors actually do use them for ideas. You may get what you order!***Your prompt doesn’t have to be kink! Fluff, crack, whatever - it’s all good!***
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add1ctedt0you · 2 years ago
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Jiang Yalin was the oldest child of Jiang Fengmian and Jiang cheng's older sister. Her personality was mild, with nothing too notable; her voice was smooth, with nothing too memorable. Her appearance was only above average, and her talents weren't astonishing either. Amid the girls from the other prominent clans, it was only natural that she seemed a little average. On the other hand, her fiancée, Jin ZiXuan, was the exact opposite. He was the only official child of Jin Guangshan, with outstanding looks and exceptional talents. According to common sense, with Jiang Yalin's conditions, it was true that they weren't well matched with each other. She wasn't even qualified enough to compete with the other girls. The only reason why Jiang Yalin was able to enter an engagement with Jin ZiXuan was because her mother was from the MeishanYu sect, and the MeishanYu sect was quite friendly with the sect of witch Jin ZiXuan's mother was from.
Jiang yanli's first introduction
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ladysunamireads · 9 days ago
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esoteric-oracle · 1 year ago
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Hi, friendly reminder that Wei Wuxian was not a demonic cultivator. His title as “Mo Dao Zu Shi” is intentionally misleading, as Wei Wuxian himself states many times in the novel that he does guidao  - the Ghost path.
This fact is more obvious to anyone who’s read more xianxia novels. Classically, “demonic cultivation” involved actual, well, demonic actions, such as eating another cultivator’s golden core - and MXTX deliberately used a subversion of that trope. Demonic cultivation requires demons - something lampshaded when Wei Wuxian himself answered when Lan Qiren asked him int the Cloud Recesses Study Arc. Demons come from living humans. The title of MDZS is a deliberate misnomer.
On a side note, it’s not just a “rumour” that Jiang Cheng kidnaps and tortures demonic cultivators and those who he suspect to be Wei Wuxian reincarnated. Lan Wangji, arguably the most reliable narrator in the whole story believes this “rumour”, as well as the Lan disciples. When Jiang Cheng finally detains Wei Wuxian in the inn, the shopkeepers and civilians are described as being scared of Jiang Cheng and the Jiang disciples there. Why, exactly, would the same civilians so friendly to Jiang Fengmian and his son in his youth, be so wary around the Jiang Clan now? It’s obviously up the reader’s interpretation, but y’know. Something to think about there.
I don't know why people are so fucking attached to that rumor of jc hunting down the other demonic cultivators for all those years after wwx died.
the novel to begin with teaches you not to go around believing people's rumors so easily, and secondly... why do they consider it a bad thing? do I have to remind you that demonic cultivation was GENUINELY a terrible thing? it destroyed the cultivator's soul and mind (literally destroyed wwx slowly), it was a dangerous weapon, and it was super disrespectful to the dead (which, by the way, is serious business in China).
I feel like... people defend this because it was an important part of wei wuxian's character, but they fail to see one important detail:
the fact that wwx used it with intentions of doing good things means NOTHING, much less it should be a sufficient factor to assume everyone else who tries it will be the same. especially since people who started to idolize the patriarch were following the bad rumors about him, and hello!? not one of those rumors were positive! everyone had the dumb idea that wwx was a terrible monster!
why would you come to the conclusion that the following demonic cultivators are not just bad people believing the false rumors that wwx was a heartless monster? those people wanted to be a new big scary patriarch, they didn't care about wei wuxian as a person at all.
so, in what way is it bad that there's someone preventing some idiots from going and trying to do evil shit against the clans using such a dangerous and unstable method?
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