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Chapter Text

Hullo there dear reader~! I hope you are all well and safe this year. 

So first things first. I do not own the characters as they belong to MXTX and their's only. 

Second. The only thing I DO own is the plot.

Lastly, this story is a self-indulgence of mine and I don't have a beta. So please no flames in the comments. 

I will certainly try my best to check my grammars, spellings and an occasional edits in some situations in each, or some, chapters. 

I hope you all like this and if not, well, that's also ok. 

Stay safe everyone ^v^!!

Chapter Text

Nie Mingjue is tired and just wanted to sleep immediately in his bed. but as he is walking towards his tent, he saw a black shadow walking slowly and quietly towards the forest. He noticed that the black figure wears a red ribbon and recognized the figure.

As much as Nie Mingjue would like to rest his tired body, his gut feeling is telling him that something doesn't seem to be right at Wei Wuxian. And so, he ignore the rational part of his brain that is saying that, 'that person is a demonic cultivator', and walks to Wei Wuxian's direction.

"Wei Wuxian! What the hell are you doing sneaking around? You are supposed to be in your hut. Resting." Nie Mingjue demanded when he got near enough at Wei Wuxian who just as flinched in suprise. This naturally make Nie Mingjue curious and a little suspicious as he did walk heavily and not even quietly. He filed this observation for later.

"Se-Sect Leader Nie! I was just about to enter the forest to look around. Make sure everything is fine and all you know? I'll go back at my tent later after I finish. " Wei Wuxian smiled as best as he could and silently curse at the stuttering, but fortunately for him he regained his composure trying to look confident and definitely not looking like he is trying to hide an injury.

Nie Mingjue is about to interrogate him some more about his suspicious activities when a familiar coppery smell of blood invaded his nose. The questions he is about to ask are all but shove down deep in his mind as he begins to observe the young man in front of him.

'This smell of blood can't be coming from me because this smell still smells new. So that could only mean that it belongs to Wei Wuxian. His stance, although straight and confident, is showing exhaustion and underneath his eyes ate slowly darkening eye bags. His skin is pale and right hand is also placed heavily at his right side.

Did he ever walked in in the healing tent at all!?' growling his frustration at what he seen and conclude. The other feels a slight jump at the growl.

̶G̶r̶o̶w̶l̶s̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶s̶o̶u̶n̶d̶s̶ ̶l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶a̶t̶t̶l̶e̶f̶i̶e̶l̶d̶ ̶w̶h̶e̶r̶e̶ ̶c̶o̶r̶p̶s̶e̶s̶ ̶a̶t̶t̶a̶c̶k̶e̶d̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶i̶r̶ ̶e̶n̶e̶m̶i̶e̶s̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶-̶

No no. I'm not in any battlefield right now. I'm safe. I'm safe. Well. Somewhat safe but still safe nonetheless. I just need to go. Before I definitely pass out in front of a sect leader. ESPECIALLY, in front of Sect Leader Nie. He will think I'm weak and that I'm not in the right mind to take control of the resentment and they'll force me to a healer and then they'll find out about-'

Nie Mingjue snapped out of his thoughts at hearing Wei Wuxian's fastening breathing breathing. He closes the gap between the two of them and Nie Mingjue reaches out to touch his shaking shoulder,who winces away from the touch, but since Nie Mingjue is much more stronger than him he is easily led to a nearby tree where they are covered by the shadows. He makes him sit down at the ground and takes his hand to move it to Nie Mingjue's chest.

"Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian! Breathe with me. Follow my breathing Wei Wuxian. In.... Out.... Deep breaths and.. Again. " Nie Mingjue repeats the action of breathing in and out until the other is slowly calming down.

They stayed still for a few minutes trying to process what happened and the other trying to make a good excuse when once again his throbbing side is demanding to be healed. Wei Wuxian tried to clear his mind and ignore the pain but it is already too late as he already can see black spots and slowly heavy eyes. He forces himself to stay awake a little more to voice out an urgent request.

Nie Mingjue feels that the other is hiding a much more deeper injury so he told him that he will take him to the healers as he gather the thin, is he always this looks small?, body in a bridal carry.

If Wei Wuxian is in a better shape right now he would have loudly protested that is is not a maiden in need of a carry, but since he is not, he can only grumble and try to let out his selfish, but very needed to keep secret, request.

"Sect Leader N-Nie. P-please, do not let me go in the healers tent. I will heal. Just not th-the healers." His breathing coming in labored breaths as he flinch at the harsh movement the Sect Leader makes when he accidentally squeezed Wei Wuxian a little tighter.

"And why is that?! Don't you see that your condition right now?! You just have a panic attack Wei Wuxian!" Nie Mingjue's agitated response

"Not th-the healers tent."

"Tell me one good reason why I won't"

Wei Wuxian normally doesn't have a loose tongue. But the fact that he is pretty much exhausted - both physically, emotionally and mentally, ̶t̶̶̶h̶̶̶e̶̶̶y̶̶̶ ̶̶̶j̶̶̶u̶̶̶s̶̶̶t̶̶̶ ̶̶̶d̶̶̶o̶̶̶n̶̶̶'̶̶̶t̶̶̶ ̶̶̶s̶̶̶t̶̶̶o̶̶̶p̶̶̶ ̶̶̶s̶̶̶c̶̶̶r̶̶̶e̶̶̶a̶̶̶m̶̶̶i̶̶̶n̶̶̶g̶̶̶ ̶̶̶a̶̶̶t̶̶̶ ̶̶̶m̶̶̶e̶̶̶,̶̶̶ ̶̶̶ ̶b̶e̶g̶g̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶l̶e̶t̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶m̶ ̶o̶u̶t̶.̶ ̶L̶o̶s̶e̶ ̶c̶o̶n̶t̶r̶o̶l̶.̶ ̶S̶c̶̶̶r̶̶̶e̶̶̶a̶̶̶m̶̶̶I̶n̶g̶. ̶E̶v̶ ̶e̶R̶ ̶Y̶W̶h̶ ̶e̶R̶e̶– the nightmares is the one we need to thank for that- he is also wounded, and it also doesn't help that he did undergo an almost full blown panic attack that made his already exhausted body feel much more beaten up, ̶b̶u̶t̶ ̶n̶o̶n̶e̶ ̶c̶a̶n̶ ̶c̶o̶m̶p̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶e̶x̶p̶e̶r̶i̶e̶n̶c̶e̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶u̶r̶i̶a̶l̶ ̶m̶o̶u̶n̶d̶s̶ Maybe that's why he told the man his most guarded secret that is supposed to be only him, Wen Ging and Wen Ning, know.

"Because... I don't h-have a golden core anymore. So p-please.. Don't let the healers heal me" Wei Wuxian whispers at the end of his sentence and passed out, hoping and knowing that the man always keeps his word.

Chapter Text

Previously:

"Because... I don't h-have a golden core anymore. So p-please.. Don't let the healers heal me" Wei Wuxian whispers at the end of his sentence before passing out.

________________

Nie Mingjue POV:

Fear, frustration and shock races through me as I fast walk towards the Nie Sect part of the camp where one of the person I trust, to heal and keep shut about what happened if necessary, is located.

I think about his words and realization slams into me like a wayward saber, stabbing my insides of familiar guilt after all the times I've almost thought that he is quite arrogant in using his demonic cultivation more than the spiritual cultivation sword.

The reason why he doesn't bring and use his sword anymore into battle when I've heard from Huaisang that he is quite a skilled swordsman and very much love his sword.

Always using the flute and demonic cultivation and never showing an ounce of spiritual cultivation and easily concluded as arrogance and disrespect.

Not letting the healers check his wounds or only Maiden Jiang can heal them and even then, he is the one dressing the wounds himself by what I've seen him going away after a battle.

Refusing to let someone, healer or cultivators, even someone close to him like Jiang Wanyin and Lan Wangji to lend some spiritual energy into him.

It all made sense now.
.
.
.
.
.
He had no other choice.

_____________
3rd Person POV:

Few Nie disciples took a double look at their Sect Leader as they stood shell-shocked to find himself carrying a demonic cultivator towards his personal healer's tent.

He ordered one of the nearby Nie disciple to alert his healer to ready her equipments and the disciple quickly ran off with the order. The moment he'd arrived he saw her waiting at the doorway and saw her Sect Leader carrying her patient and asked about what happened.

"He had an almost full blown panic attack. His right side also looks like it was stabbed. And before you ask why here and not the public medical tent, he asked me not to bring him to there and it is for a good reason which you'll definitely find later but not here. " Nie Mingjue said straight to the point as frustration laced in his words.

"I see. Bring him inside and lay him down the spare bed." He just nodded and followed her instruction.

"And don't you have some preparation and guarding duties to attend to? Stop gossiping and get back to work!" she commanded the people who still stood around and staring who just flinches back and stuttered affirmatives. She took a quick glance around before finally following inside where Nie Mingjue already put the unconscious young man in the spare bed.

Nie Hualian is his personal healer as every sect leader acquired one in the Nie Sect. Because of their way of cultivation leading to qi deviation at any moment, they need to have someone they trusted to check them up and not to say anything if it required discretion.

"Sect Leader Nie, you know the procedures, please wait in the other side of the room. You can lay down in the other bed as I heal.. What's his name?"

"Wei Wuxian."

"Ohh that Wei Wuxian. Thank you Sect Leader Nie. So as I was saying, you should lay down while I heal Wei-gongzi. I bet you have a stressful week. I'll wake you up when I've finished examining and healing him."

Nie Hualian is a person who does not listen or judge people just because of a rumours as she prefers to judge the person directly so that there will be no bias happening.

As I was about to argue, she just give me the look that neans 'Please-don't-test-me-Sect-Leader-because-I-will-not-hesitate-to-call-Huaisang-to-put-sense-into-you'

Damn her. He knows that she will do that, and happily so, as she knows Huaisang is my only weakness to behave.

"Tsk. Fine. Don't call in Huaisang." he reluctantly agreed.

As Hualian is healing him. He doesn't know why he feels concerned like this to a person he barely even knows besides a few passing and rumours. He expected to find a strong, short tempered and arrogant person who is full of himself just because he knows demonic cultivation. He did not expect to find a self sacrificing and underweight young man.

"Sect Leader... Is there something you haven't told me yet? Like. Oh. I don't know. Maybe about this person's golden core perhaps? " Good thing that Hualian always put privacy, silent and alarm array surrounding her tent.

"Yes."

"... I guess I see why he doesn't want to go to the public medical tent then. I will only let you ask him some things when he's conscious and coherent is that agreeable Sect Leader?" she knows that her Sect Leader would love to get his answers as soon as possible.

After this revelation, who wouldn't be? A demonic cultivator who is previously rumoured to be very talented and have a strong golden core but after his return, Nie Mingjue just found out that his golden core is no longer there. So many theories and so many questions. And it can only be solved and answered by the young master who is unconscious and being healed by her.

"Fine. He won't be able to answer anyway when he's confuse" Nie Mingjue knows that Hualian cares a lot about the comfort of her patients, mostly him, Huaisang and Nie Zongli. Looks like Wei Wuxian will be part of that circle.

The Golden core. Another thing for him to think about. Nie Mingjue sigh as he lay down on the bed and put his hand to massage away his growing headache.

As he waits, his body decided that it is time for some shut eye. As he tried to stay awake a little longer, his last thoughts before he completely fall into slumber are.

Wei Wuxian, you better prepare yourself an explanation as I won't just take any words you will sprout to avoid this discussion.

Chapter Text

Wei Wuxian's POV:

The sensation of pain- yet also numbness-, drowsiness, and somewhat satisfaction of a good night sleep d̶e̶v̶o̶i̶d̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶a̶n̶y̶ ̶n̶i̶g̶h̶t̶m̶a̶r̶e greets Wei Wuxian who is still a little bit sluggish from sleep. As he pried his eyes open to look around the room he is currently in, he concludes that he must be in a private healer tent by the indication of some medical books from the table, only two beds, somewhat average size tent, medical bandages and the smell of slight herbal scent in the air. Looks like no one is here yet so he tried to sit and get out while he can but it looks like his body is still needs more rest by the pain races through his body.

'What Happened.. Last night.. Again?'
He massage his head from the pain that have successfully made him remember of what happened from last night.

What the hell!? Arghh! I can't believe I did that! In front of Sect Leader Nie nonetheless! And why, of all things, did I have to say about my golden core!

In another part of his brain argued that he also stick to justice and righteousness. So, maybe...

No no no. Wei Wuxian what are you thinking about!? Of all things to say on why I c̶a̶n̶ ̶n̶o̶t do not go to public medical tents. Why did I have to confess about that!?

Well whatever. I know he will interrogate me when I wake up. No matter. I'll just deny it as many times until he accepts it, or evade him until he forgets about it! Better to let him think that I have no golden core anymore because of demonic cultivation rather than let him know about the truth.

A presence can be felt coming inside the tent and going towards him if their step is any sign.Wei Wuxian's tried to steady his breathing trying to look asleep.

"I know you're awake. Please wake up as you still need to drink your medicine." damn it. There goes my plan to escape.

_____________

Third Person POV:

Gray eyes cracked open to gaze at the person that is now standing next to his bed with a tray of medicine, soup and tea.

"Wh-Who? Where–where am I? " Wei Wuxian, still haven't recovered, asked the mystery healer, who he concludes as the one who heals him, but that only make himself cough at the dryness of his throat.

"Have some water first. Drink slowly or you'll choke yourself, again." she puts her focus on making sure her patient drinks the given water first before she answered his question.

"Good morning to you too Wei-gongzi. You are in my personal tent. My name is Nie Hualian, I am also the one who healed you. It is already Chen Shi. " she answers swiftly and gives a confident and cheerful grin.

She have black eyes that screams comfort, honesty and loyalty. Soft black hair tied into a half ponytail hairstyle and she wears the standard Nie healer robes with a few accents to make it known that she is a healer, and higher in rank at that, 'so a personal healer then.' Wei Wuxian concludes.

"Now if you please stay still. I have to check your wounds and change the bandages in your injured side before you get to eat your soup and drink your medicine."

"Aiya! I'm ok now Nie-guniang. No need to do that. I can do them myself. It does not hurt anymore anywa– AH!" Wei Wuxian yelped in shock and in pain as the healer poked at his wounded side.

"Healed already, huh." a deadpanned expression is gracing Hualian's face as  she ignored the grumbling young master and gets herself to work.

After 2 hours of silent working and grumbling and chatting from time to time. Wei Wuxian does not dare to move too much after she nearly pressed his wounded side too tight in bandage because of him squirming around. He is now reluctantly eating the somewhat bland soup and tea, telling the healer that he prefers the Emperor Smile of Gusu instead .

"So anyway. Sect Leader Nie would definitely want to speak to you after he finish this afternoon strategy meeting. Just a heads up." she decided to give him an early warning. Wei Wuxian goes still and eyes widened in panic.

"Wha-What!? Sect Leader Nie wants to speak with me? Wh-whatever for?" sweat started to trickle down his eyebrow as his now free hand sets the spoon down to the bowl and clenches and unclenches his hands in a nervous tick, already knowing what it would be about. 

"Yes. Also, I already know what it is since I am the one who healed you." she observed how he stiffens at this, "But rest assured as no word about it shall escape my lips, that I swear to you, in the name of my healer's oath." he stares skeptically at her serious and compassionate black eyes. Looking and deciding if she will keep her words and oath. After the stare down, she looks like she passed the test.

"Looks like I've got no choice. You did heal me after all. I will take your oath then, Nie-guniang." he grinned at her but he still have his concerns.

She did not gets offended at this, fully understanding his concerns so she just nodded and gets to her desk to give him space as they await for the Sect Leader's arrival that will be barging in in 3 more hours before the  i̶n̶t̶e̶r̶r̶o̶g̶a̶t̶ion discussion starts.

"Wei-gongzi. I know that you have your concerns and skepticism, but I hope that you will put a little bit of faith to Sect Leader Nie. He is a type of person who stood in justice and will definitely protect a person no matter the way of their cultivation. They only needed to be honest and trust him to tell their story."

"How do you say that? What if the reason why I don't have my golden core anymore is exactly because of my demonic cultivation? Will he still listen to me then?" he rebutted 

"If you did it to protect or you have no choice, then I see no reason why not. I have a hunch that you using demonic cultivation is the result of you having no golden core by the way you have a small scar where your golden core is located and you're spiritual roots are also not damaged. If your demonic cultivation did that they would have gone through every part and opening of your body, to damage your spiritual roots to get to your Golden Core and coats it in resentment as it surely and slowly and crush it. Just like how Wen Zhuliu's Core-Melting Hand works.  But back to the topic, Whatever story on how and why you have no golden core anymore and following such a heretic path, only Sect Leader Nie may know of after your discussion later... Or others if you decided to tell your experience to those you are comfortable and close with. But anyway, you don't have to worry about him hurting and turning it against you.  If he ever did, then I have clearly chosen a wrong leader to follow. Never fret though as I will interrupt when he ever steps out of line, that, I assure you" she rambles as she tried go reassure and encourage the silent Wei Wuxian who just replied a small smile back, mulling over what she said.

"Hahaha, I don't know if I should feel complimented at such support even if you still don't know what happened, or lecture you to not trust people so easily Nie-guniang~"

"Please, I know we'll spend time with each other for at least 2 weeks. So let's drop the politeness aye? Call me Nie Hualian" she gives her hand to the other gesturing for a handshake who takes the hand and gives the back of her hand a peck instead.

"Since such a request have come from such a pretty sister like you, how can I refuse? And since we decided to drop the politeness, you can also call me Wei Wuxian, Nie Hualian." he said in a flirty cheeky tone which the other playfully scoffed. 

"Now since we are acquainted, what do you mean by Wen Zhuliu using resentment energy to destroy a cultivator's core?" and the atmosphere is a bit more light hearted then as the topic varied from teasing and exchanging of theories, to getting to know each other.

Wei Wuxian thinks about what she said and anything and everything from pros and cons of telling the Sect Leader about his golden core to reasons and excuses on why he can't tell Sect Leader Nie. 

_________________

On the Center Camp:

In the main tent, where strategies are being planned and informations are shared, the discussion is the usual reporting after their battlefield assignments and others. After that is said and done, the meeting ends early than usual as their General is unusually quiet and looks to be deep in thoughts than usual after the meeting ends.

"Da-ge. Are you alright? You look unfocused at the strategy meeting today. Is there something the matter?" a worried Lan Xichen approaches his friend who looks to be quite in a hurry judging by the fast paced he is walking after the meeting ends.

"Xichen? Yes yes I'm fine. Just thinking about something. No need to worry " Nie Mingjue paused to look and take the time to reassure his friend in front of him with a worried look. After a while Lan Xichen decided to not press the matter any longer, noticing the other's impatience and slowly building up agitation, and watch him goes towards the Nie side camp.

___________

Hualian's Tent:

"Hualian? I'm back. The strategy meeting ends early. How is–" Nie Mingjue entered the tent and saw the two occupants goes rigid in suprise. Nie Mingjue wouldn't have even noticed it at first because of how easily he settles himself down.

"I see that you're awake. Good. Hualian is he ready?"

"Well good afternoon to you too Sect Leader Nie and yes I'm fine as well thank you for asking" his eyebrown twitched at the sarcastic remark.

"..............."

"Pftt Hahaha you have guts Nie Hualian hahahhaha" a startled laugh broke out of Wei Wuxian as he certainly did not expect to find a gutsy woman who can confront their Sect Leader like this.

He can almost imagine Jiang Cheng and him broke into bantering after this–

This almost kicked most of his amusement out of him as he remembers that this will be an interrogation and not a laughing matter.

"Glad to be the source of your amusement Wei Wuxian. Please, do continue." is her deadpan voice and trying to lighten the mood even just a little bit.

" It has been fun while it lasted, but think I will not Nie Hualian~ I don't want to get Sect Leader Nie's fierce attention no matter how flattering it will be~" Wei Wuxian is back on being cheeky again, good, plan work.

"Tsk. Good afternoon Nie Hualian, Wei Wuxian. Now if you don't want to go on messenger duty, I suggest you answer my questions now yes" and that wasn't a question, is the unwritten next sentence but the intent have been sent nonetheless. She just gives her Sect Leader a small grin before going into business.

"Yes, yes Sect Leader Nie~ So anyway. You can have my stamp of approval for a few story telling and questions, but not too long as he still needs to rest and to not over stress himself. Also, Sect Leader Nie, I will say this not between personal healer and her Sect Leader, but as between friends. This is same for you too Wei Wuxian." this time, she completely change into a new personality. Looking very serious as the spines of the two feared cultivators straightened in sync.

'Ack. She sound just like Madam Yu when using that tone. Scary.' his body broke into shudders at that thought as his body complied.

"Nie Mingjue, Mingjue-ge. Please don't interrupt and continue to try listen until the end of his tale, alright? And for you Wei Wuxian, I know we've only met for like, 3 hours and so, but my gut feeling and observations told me that you're a good person who sticks to justice, protective to his love ones, cheerful, low self-esteem and a self-sacrificing idiot base on your stories alone. Please think about what I've said earlier and be a little honest. Do have patience the both of you." She gives the two last serious stares as both guys nodded at her. She stretches as she stands up, going at the direction of the tent flap looking at them back to her normal cheer self.

" I'm going now~! I'll be just outside the tent guarding the entrance. And don't worry about eavesdroppers Wei Wuxian, this tent have privacy, alarming and silencing array so you two can speak or scream without interruptions. Sect Leader Nie don't be too forceful at the idiot. Tell me if you ever need anything and it will be the same if there will be an emergency outside."

"Thank you Hualian. You are dismissed"

She saluted at her Sect Leader before waving and going outside. Nie Mingjue sits at the now empty chair just a few distance away fromWei Wuxian.

The silence only lasted for a couple of seconds before Wei Wuxian breaks it.

"I don't think I can get out of this, am I?" trying one last attempt of escaping the discussion.

"No. So I suggest that you get on with it. And don't even think of lying or omitting truths because I don't want to be lied at." clearly already guessing what the other is planning.

"I'm sorry Sect Leader Nie, but I don't think you have the right to ask that of me. Besides, I already promised to myself that I would never tell anyone whatever happened to my Golden Core if someone discovered it." if lying and omitting of truth is not allowed then who says anything about evading? Let's see how you'll handle this Sect Leader Nie.

Nie Mingjue sees through the other's intention rebutted, "I have the right to know as I took you to my personal healer's tent to heal your injured side after you did a panic attack and faints on me due to stress, hunger and exhaustion. So tell me Wei Wuxian, do I really don't deserve the truth? Or do you want Jiang Wanyin to confront you about it instead?" Nie Mingjue crossed his arms as Wei Wuxian looks horrified at the mention of it.

On second thoughts "No! Sect Leader Nie, please don't tell Jiang Cheng. He does not need to know about it. He can not know that I don't have a golden core anymore." Wei Wuxian tried to discourage the older man, but the keyword is tried.

"Then tell me the truth Wei Wuxian."

The walls around him crumbled for just a little. He have enough of keeping the secret for himself. Always cold, feeling alone and isolated in this bloody war. Staying in constant vigilance because of the chance of someone finding out his secret and use that knowledge to blackmail him in whatever their nefarious plans are.

But Sect Leader Nie isn't just anyone.
He is a type of person who stood in justice and will definitely protect a person no matter the way of their cultivation. They only needed to be honest and trust him to tell their story.

If you did it to protect or you have no choice, then I see no reason why not

Wei Wuxian recalls Nie Hualian's words and with that thoughts, he took a deep breath and begins telling his tale.

Chapter Text

Previously:

But Sect Leader Nie isn't just anyone.
He is a type of person who stood in justice and will definitely protect a person no matter the way of their cultivation. They only needed to be honest and trust him to tell their story.

If you did it to protect or you have no choice, then I see no reason why not

Wei Wuxian recalls Nie Hualian's words and with that thoughts, he took a deep breath and begins telling his tale.

________________

He told him about what happened at Lotus Pier. How the Wen whore arrived to demand to punish Wei Wuxian just because of standing up and fighting back against Wen Chao and his men at the indoctrination camp. About how he was whipped to appease Wang Lingjiao and almost lost his right arm if she didn't mentioned how Wen Ruohan planned to establish a supervisory office. However, they are too late  to prevent Wang Lingjiao to set out the signal which is the sign for a prepared large army of Wen cultivators to swarm over Lotus Pier and began killing Jiang disciples and civilians left and right.

He told him about how Madam Yu tied them with Zidian in the boat to take them to safety. How Jiang Fengmian and Madam Yu are killed by Wen Zhuliu and spat on by Wen Chao and his whore, while their fellow martial brothers and sisters are burned in huge piles as flames licked their body to ashes.

He mentioned about how he and Jiang Cheng saw what happened to his parents and later on tried to pick themselves up and out of griving as they are still not safe, still not reunited with their sister who is anxiously waiting for them. They stopped by a nearby village and he left Jiang Cheng in an alley to buy them some food but next thing he knows is that he is heading to Yunmeng, again, to rescue his brother, wishing that he makes it in time, only to found out that his brother no longer possess his golden core.

This is where he hesitated for a bit before he disclosed about the involvement of Wen Ning and his sister.

He conveyed how Wen Ning, who is so shy but kind, tried to fulfill his requests and tried to help them escape by going on a boat to the direction of Yilling. This is also the first time where Wei Wuxian meets Wen Qing and her theory about the Golden Core Transfer. She obviously disagreed to conduct such a dangerous procedure but after a while of begging for the Wen healer, they conducted the procedure.

"Wen-dogs helped you two out? Why on earth would you put your trust to the both of them just like that!?" the Nie Sect Leader trembled in anger and frustration at Wei Wuxian who defended the Wen Siblings.

"The two of them are not Wen-dogs Sect Leader Nie. I put my trust in them because I know Wen Qing and his brother is not part of the Main branch who supported Wen Ruohan's tyranny and ideals. They are Dafan Wens who are only healers that does not participates in this war. Wen Qing also don't have a choice because if she ever steps out of line, he can, and will, kill her family with just a snap of his fingers." this made Nie Mingjue silent. Recalling the next part of his encounter almost made him feel the phantom pain he felt at that time and place. He brushed that thought aside, took a deep breath and carries on with his story.

He have convinced Jiang Cheng to go at a random mountain where the supposed-to-be Immortal Baoshan Sanren's moutain is located to help him have a Golden Core again.

"The transfer is a success as you saw how Jiang Cheng can use his spiritual weapon and sword." He tried to distract Nie Mingjue with a laugh but it just sounded more faked and pained instead. Sounding a bit more older and jaded than he should sound to be. Bringing up what happened will do a number on the person recounting the experience.

What Nie Mingjue have heard from the other rangs true and he can sense no malice or lies in them. This naturally made him sit stiff in his chair as he recounts the other person's story. The information left him stunned for a moment and his respect for Wei Wuxian goes up a notched before he noticed a simple missing event.

"Where we're you after that? This must be the time where you learned demonic cultivation. Three months of you missing while Jiang Cheng have arrived at Qinghe alone and not a trace of you in sight at the search."

"You are correct Sect Leader Nie.. I was." Wei Wuxian tried to think of anything to say, anything except that.

"Wei Wuxian. Tell me" Nie Mingjue pressed the question as heavy feelings begins to settle at his nerves as he observes how the other goes more somber and grief and more pain passes through his glazing eyes when they both look at each other.

"... After the procedure..  Wen Chao happened... I did not expect him to come visit the tavern I'm in... At that time, I just thought that I will be tortured, but next thing I know, I've been... T-thrown into the Burial Mounds." Wei Wuxian whispered at the end, shuddering and at the thought of being back at that dark and cold place.

"What? Are you serious!? The Burial Mounds. No people gets out there alive! No wonder. You.. You have no choice.. Damn it! " Nie Mingjue can no longer keep himself still and silent as he stands up, knocking the chair down loudly and paced back and forth, back and forth in agitation, frustration and pain for what the other have been through and his hatred for the Wen's increased.

"Three days. Three days of no sleep and no anesthesia to numb the pain and then after that is staying in the Burial Mounds. For almost three months!"

"What the hell have you been thinking anyway! A Golden Core is a cultivators life! Why give it away Wei Wuxian?!" Nie Mingjue directed his attention to Wei Wuxian, trying to understand yet at the same time fighting the burning desire to hunt more Wens. Baxia at his side trembling at his master's rage.

"Because he is my brother Sect Leader Nie. If we didn't proceed with the Golden Core Transfer, he may as well lost his will to live.   He is a very prideful person who spent his life being compared to me and trying to impress and to make his parents acknowledge and be proud of him. But without a Golden Core, he can no longer extract revenge for his fallen parents and to our beloved martial sisters and brothers. He will also not gonna be taken seriously by other cultivators and may result in him living in doubt and anger. If he knows that his Golden Core is from me and I now don't have one, he will slip into despair and thinks that he's not good enough." Wei Wuxian said trying to push down his own temper. He knows his brother very well that Jiang Cheng will feel so damn betrayed if he knows about this. Yet he also can't bring it in himself to regret it as it has been the one thing that saved his brother's life. 

"So this is why you are keeping it as a secret? With only you and two others to know. Not even your brother? He have the right to know Wei Wuxian! Have you ever thought to inform him about this after the war?!" Nie Mingjue is feeling a migraine ready to settle in his head at the sheer stubbornness at other person's self-sacrificing idiotic thoughts and decisions.

"Please Sect Leader Nie, calm down. That is why. Please, I beg of you, from a fellow big brother to another, do not tell Jiang Cheng what I've told you this day. If it ever happens to Nie Huaisang, wouldn't you also do the same, Sect Leader Nie?" Wei Wuxian trying to bring out the big brother in him by bringing up Nie Huaisang to make the older Nie sees his way of thinking on why he cannot let Jiang Cheng knows about this.

Nie Mingjue only let out a heavy sigh and draws in deeps breaths to calm the intense feelings of fury and the desire to hit the idiot upside down.

'I can't belive I will get a much more worse headache inducing problems than Huaisang.' Nie Mingjue thought in a fond exasperation that only an older sibling may know of, and annoyance.

"Yes, I suppose I would. I understand the feeling of having no choice and we are in the middle of a war. You only wish to save your brother for such a life. Believe me I understand." he really did. If something ever happens to his weak little brother, he would do everything in his power to save him from such a fate. Even if that is impossible and will result in his death. That is why he is trying so hard to make Huaisang practice his saber. So that he can protect himself when one day he Qi Deviates or gets killed, he will be able to protect himself and their sect.

Nie Mingjue let's out a tired sigh, "What you did to your Golden Core is Jiang Wanyin and Yunmeng Jiang's business. So rest assured that I won't tell him. I make no promises though if Jiang Wanyin talks to me about it himself or if the situation is important and it is needed to be told, I will tell him, got that Wei Wuxian?" Telling him that he won't be the first one to break it to Jiang Wanyin, but Wei Wuxian himself.

"It is basically that, or none at all." Wei Wuxian mumbles, "Thank you for Sect Leader Nie's kindness. That is all I asked." he tried to bow to say his thanks.

"No need to bow. You are still injured" Nie Mingjue is already at Wei wuxian's side to right him up into a sitting position again. "But seriously, you need to tell him brat. He deserves to know the truth of what happened to his brother. No matter how much you want to spare him from the truth, ignorance can only last so long until he'll know about it and confront you himself. If I carried you to the public medical tent last night, people would have already gossiped about it and in such an enclosed camp like ours. Jiang Wanyin will raged to your direction asleep, injured or not." Nie Mingjue frowned trying to talk sense to the idiot.

Wei Wuxian is stunned silent at the Sect Leader's admittance and persuasion and is that concern he is hearing?

Nie Mingjue examine Wei Wuxian's silence and slight discomfort at the scolding. He tried to ease the other so he said in a gruff yet soft tone, "You don't have to tell him now. Just that don't wait it out any longer than necessary. I will give you until the war is over. If you don't, well you better know that I will be there and force it out of you if needed." again, highlight on the word tried. But it looks like his words are accepted.

"I.. Understand Sect Leader Nie. I will take your words into consideration" Wei Wuxian gives the Sect Leader a smile, oh I have no doubt he will do what he said alright, Wei Wuxian thought to himself.

The atmosphere drops into silence.

Nie Mingjue is now a little bit more calm, though the raging storm inside him that is yelling blood is still unsettled, but it was not as obvious like before. Wei Wuxian also seems to be a tad bit weary, wiggling in his position looking like a worn out yet battle ready cat ready to pounce if attacked... Which isn't that far off image considering that anytime now there is still some doubt lingering at the back of his head, that Nie Mingjue will continue to say bloody murders or perhaps scold him. To say that he was weary is an understatement.

"I apologize for my outburst. It was not my intention to scare you. Hearing about the Massacre in Lotus Pier, the Golden Core Transfer and the Burial Mounds.. It just made my blood boil thinking about what all of them have done. " Nie Mingjue lets out an angry growl at the thought of them. It also sounds like it is not only directed at Wei Wuxian, but also to the people involved that are killed and tortured in the hands of their Wen enemies. Which Wei Wuxian definitely noticed.

Wei Wuxian looks up at him, shock in his eyes, "No need to apologize Sect Leader Nie. There is nothing to apologize about. You are just concerned. I also understand why you would say that." Wei Wuxian gives a soft reassuring smile, ever trying to put other people's concern over himself. Also him? The one who raises the dead with just a whistle and survived from an inescapable place with just a flute? Be scared? Nahh, rather, it should be the other way around instead. But He truly is a man worthy of being a leader. He is concerned about the well-being of the people that he is leading. Strategically smart and a person who stood in justice as well. He thought to himself.

"No, I've stepped out of line. Just accept it. I don't give out apologies that often. You better take it while you can brat and savor it. " Nie Mingjue gives him a small smirk and a bit of mirth can be seen in his black eyes that when directed at the sunlight it brings out a brilliant molten gold color that one can't look away. 'He truly is quite a handsome man with a body and a handsome face which cultivators envy of. Why isn't he at the Top 5 again?' He is close to the lamp so he saw how true that statement was as he openly stare at him, blood rushing through his cheeks. 

"I.. Hahahaha. Then I guess I'll accept it. Even if there really is no need for it." Wei Wuxian laughs. Suprised at the older Nie's dry humour.

The atmosphere is now back to a lukewarm vibe. Nie Mingjue is back to contemplating the new knowledge he heard as deep feeling of the same protective emotion that he feels only for Huaisang begins to take root. He is also suspecting Wei Wuxian to being followed by chaos by the amount of bad lucks he seems to encounter.

Wei Wuxian now feels a little bit free, better even, after he told someone his closely guarded secret. Someone who is concerned about him, (not a concern about his use of resentment or if he can control it. He wasn't about give up the only way he can to protect his shidi and shije, and the way to win this war away like Lan Wangji keeps telling him) and he's sure that Nie Mingjue will stick to his words, that he knows. 

They are both startled out of their musings when Nie Hualian claps two times outside the tent flap.

"Sect Leader Nie? I hope I'm not interrupting your discussion.  Sect Leader Jiang is here to visit our patient. May we come in or do you need a minute to sort yourselves out?" 

Chapter Text

Previously:

___________________

"Sect Leader Nie." Jiang Cheng gives him a salute and a bow after thay have been granted access to enter the tent.

"Jiang Wanyin." Nie Mingjue turns to look at Jiang Cheng as he returned it with a salute.

"I've just received the news today that Wei Wuxian is injured and staying in a Nie healer's camp." Jiang Cheng gives Wei Wuxian a stern once over which Wei Wuxian returns sticking his tongue out at him childishly. Jiang Cheng tried to send a subtle glare at him as he returned his focus at Sect Leader Nie.

Nie Mingjue just ignored what is happening between the two of them. "Yes I've found him limping towards the forest last night. Said that he is just gonna check the barrier in there but I figured out that he's secretly hiding his injury after he passed out on me. The Nie camp is much nearer than the Jiang, so I got him to my personal healer, which you've already met. I assume she already gives you the report diagnosis for Wei Wuxian?" Jiang Cheng replied with an affirmative.

"I'll leave you two some privacy then. We'll be back soon." Nie Mingjue needs to talk to Nie Hualian too about something.

After the two Nie's exits the tent. Jiang Cheng marched over to Wei Wuxian to grab his shoulder subtly checking him if there are anymore injuries that he needs to know. As he is doing that, he is trying not to shake him that hard and said irritatedly, "Wei Wuxian! Why didn't you tell me that you are injured huh!? I really have to hear it from the rumours rather than from your own mouth!?". Jiang Cheng moved away to cross his arms across his chest. Feeling a little hurt that he didn't noticed his brother have an injury and not being trusted enough to tell.

"Ahh Jiang Cheng~ you worried about your dear shixiong~?" Wei Wuxian grinned teasingly as he rolled his shoulders here Jiang Cheng grabbed him.

"Who is worried about you!? Anyway what happened out there huh? Last night you told me that you are fine and next thing I know is that you're in a Nie Camp being carried by Sect Leader Nie in the middle of the night." Jiang Cheng gives a light scowl as he tried to look not too worried at him. But Wei Wuxian saw through him and it made him feel light but also a bit guilty to worry his didi like that.

"Ahh. Well-"

"And the Nie healer said to me that you have a serious injury in your right side that would have result into you losing so much blood if she didn't get to stitched it together sooner. You are also under malnurished, anemiac, and bodily exhausted. Why didn't you go to our healers you idiot? Is it the assassins again? Why didn't you told me? Do you really have that weak of a trust to me" Jiang Cheng whispered this time he can't hide the hint of hurt that seeped into his words and stop himself from blurting out that last question. He knows that he is being harsh at his brother, but he can't help it. Secretly, in his very depth core, he really is very worried about him. Ever since his return, it seems like he is a completely different person, more short-tempered and serious, and he doesn't know how to respond to this changes. Top of that is the workload and stress from war and recruiting Jiang disciples at the same time.

Wei Wuxian shook his heard side to side in denial. "Jiang Cheng! I do trust you. It's just that, well"

"Well?"

"I don't want to add myself to the list that you are worrying about. You are already quite stressed about the assassin situation and add your other workloads, you are ready to drop dead Jiang Cheng!" Wei Wuxian can't help but admit it just to comfort and reassure his didi that he do trust him Y̶o̶u̶ ̶d̶o̶n̶'̶t̶ ̶e̶v̶e̶n̶ ̶t̶e̶l̶l̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶ ̶a̶b̶o̶u̶t̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶G̶o̶l̶d̶e̶n̶ ̶C̶o̶r̶e̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶s̶a̶y̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶t̶r̶u̶s̶t̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶?̶ ̶P̶a̶t̶h̶e̶t̶i̶c.

"Besides. It is just a simple injury. I can take care of myself fine you know" he can't help but pout when Jiang Cheng just rolled his eyes at this and muttered bullshit under his breath "Hey! It's true! And it's not that bad, just almost." Jiang Cheng just glared.

"Seriously injured on your right side that almost results into blood lost if she did not immediately stitched your stabbed wounds sooner." He repeated the report of the diagnosis back to him again which results into a light bickering.

Jiang Cheng can't help the curiosity about what Sect Leader Nie and Wei Wuxian talked about so he asked him, and trying not to look too curious, as he crossed his arms to seem nonchalant about it.

"What did you two talked about before I get here anyway?" Wei Wuxian tried his best not to seem too defensive as it is only a questiona. He is glad that the words comes out from his mouth does not indicate the shakiness that is still left welling up inside him after their discussion.

"Ahh it's nothing much. We just talked about some battle strategies and talismans. He saw some of my creations in my robes and before we know it time flies. He asked me if he can have some of my talismans and I agreed. That kinds of stuffs" they actually didn't but he need some topic to give to Jiang Cheng to not arouse some suspicions. Jiang Cheng is about to ask more when a deep voice of the person they are talking about entered.

"That is correct Jiang Wanyin. I will expect them after you are recovered though Wei Wuxian." startled at the additional voice, they both look at the direction of the tent flap where Nie Mingjue is now standing. The last sentence clearly directed at Wei Wuxian.

"Sect Leader Nie. Of course, I will deliver them in the earliest I can." Wei Wuxian felt relieved and with that and Nie Mingjue can hear the sincerity and determination that he already knows that even if this is just a cover up he will still be getting some talismans.

Wei Wuxian slightly slumped in his position the exhaustion is already catching up on him. He tried not to let it bother him though and only the trained eyes of the medic have noticed.

"Hmph. Take your time. You need to keep up your strength if you are to be useful in this war." Nie Mingjue reminds the two of them that Wei Wuxiam is still anemic and injured.

Nie Mingjue did not mean to hear their conversation but he understands the situation as soon as he caught the end of it. He also agreed to the talisman as Nie Huaisang told him before that Wei Wuxian creates excellent and even improved versions of some talismans.

"I assume that Sect Leader Jiang is planning on moving Wei Wuxian back to the Jiang Camp?"

"Yes. If it's alright to Sect Leader Nie and Nie Hualian that is."

"Nie Hualian, is he safe to be move now to the Jiang Campside?" the three of them look at the doctor. Wei Wuxian looked a bit alarmed because if they move him to the Jiang healers, they would surely figure out his Golden Core and tell Jiang Cheng.

"Unfortunately, no. We can't move him yet. If we do move him right now, we will only just make it worse. His side is healing slowly and he did almost have a blood lost. Add to that he is a bit anemic. It is better for him to stay here and gather his strength before he will be allowed to walked back and forth again, especially if he is to join the frontlines. If I have to estimate when he can move again I suppose it'll take 2 weeks at most." Nie Hualian shakes her head sideways as Nie Mingjue gained a thoughtful look.

"I see. Then if Sect Leader Jiang permits, Wei Wuxian can stay here and be watched over in the hands of my personal healer. We can give you the reports of his recovery and of course you can visit him anytime. " Nie Mingjue already knows that Wei Wuxian would try his best to evade the healers tent as much as discreetly as possible, especially if it's Jiang healers.

Jiang Cheng contemplates his choices and looks at his brother looking conflicted at this.

"Hey Jiang Cheng It'll be fine. I have someone who will look after me here." Wei Wuxian gives Jiang Cheng two taps on the arm that he can reach that lacks his usual strength in them.

"You are only thinking about flirting and teasing Nie Hualian and planning every excuse just so you can move from that bed and damn the injuries. " Jiang Cheng scoffs. Wei Wuxian returned it with a mock scandalous face saying, "I would never!", which he did say anyway, which Jiang Cheng also ignores to give Sect Leader Nie his answer.

"Then if Sect Leader Nie permits it, I won't oppose the offer. If he becomes too insufferable, you have my permission to send him back or notify me and I'll drag the idot back to the Jiang camp" Nie Mingjue gives a booming laugh at that and deepening the pout on Wei Wuxian face. Seeing the opportunity, Nie Hualian steps forward with her arms in her hips.

"Then it's decided then~! Now if that'll be all, I need you both to go to another corner to further talk about the terms and whatnot as I still have a stubborn piece of a patient to make his medicine and make him rest early. It is already nearing evening after all. The talked between you two last long enough Sect Leader Nie, Sect Leader Jiang. You both can interrogated him again tomorrow~" She goes directly to her medicine cabinet to pull out some bottles and going to the kitchen to get some fresh water to go along with the medicine. Wei Wuxian blanched at the sight of the medicine.

"Do I really have to drink that? It tastes bitter pretty jiejieee" Wei Wuxian tried to look coy at her and he definitely did not whine.

"Oh I know~ and of course you have to! How else are you gonna recover hm~ xiao Wuxian~You're going to stay in my tent so my tent, my rules baobei~" Nie Hualian gained a glint of manic amusement as she is steadily geting closer and closer.

_________________

As Nie Hualian is feeding Wei Wuxian his medicine. The two Sect Leaders walked at the opposite corner side of the tent.

"Sect Leader Nie. Are you truly sure at your decision?" He can't help but ask again.

"Yes. I can't have one of the main contributors to this war be more injured than he is just because we moved him. Is something the matter Jiang Wanyin?" Nie Mingjue asked as he noticed the way the other looks hesitant.

"Then if you will have him in your care, I would have to give you a warning Sect Leader Nie. " Jiang Cheng becomes grims at this. If his brother is to stay in this tent, he needs to let Sect Leader Nie and his healer know just what they is getting themselves into. "I've already seen and thwarted at least 5 assassination attempts at him this month. That is only what I've seen so far and I don't know how many more this idiot is keeping for me." he whispered low as his eyes burns in an intense rage at the thought of it which is mirrored by Nie Mingjue.

"Assassination attempts? Inside our camp? Do you know who are the one that keeps sending them?" he whispered back. Assassination attempts inside their side is absolutely taboo. Not that that let anyone stop them. Whoever is found doing it will be killed without mercy. He detest people who betrays their allies. Especially in a time like this where they are still outnumbered by the Wen Sect.

"Yes. The moves belongs to Jin Sect when we fought some of them." he spat out the Jin as if it was poison.

"Damn those slimy snakes!" Nie Mingjue growls as he can already feel the familiar pool of rage.

They are silenced by a shush at Nie Hualian who glares at them and points at the now sleeping Wei Wuxian. As they are talking, the topic of their conversation have already drifted off to sleep. Very fast at that.

'The exhaustion must have already caught up to him.' Nie Mingjue cannot help but direct a somewhat soft look and understanding at Wei Wuxian. After all that emotional talk and unloading most of his burden from carrying his secrets, who wouldn't slumped over in exhaustion?

"How.." Jiang Cheng frowned as he never saw him sleeping, deeply at that, inside a foreign tent. And even inside his tent he always put his talismans or watch when someone is inside to go out till he is alone or with a person he trusts.. Can he already been trusting-

Jiang Cheng widen his eyes at that.
'Impossible. It hasn't even been that long for him since he got here and he already trusts this two Nie's?' he tried to stomp that growing bit of envy he feels at this.

At Jiang Wanyin's silence and look at the sleeping patient.

"Hualian probably put a potent sleeping powder along with his medicine. He have a hard day so she reserve pills like that for stubborn men that does not listen to her." he already have a taste of that pill. And he definitely did not want to drink that again.

"Now about that assassination attempts." Nie Mingjue and Jiang Cheng spent their evening inside till 9 pm to converse about the assassination attempts, battle strategies and plans.

Chapter Text

Previously:

"Now about that assassination attempts." Nie Mingjue and Jiang Cheng spent their evening inside till 9 pm to converse about the assassination attempts, battle strategies and plans for the Sunshot Campaign, and a bit of Wei Wuxian there and then.

_______________________

The discussion of what they will do about it has finalized. It ended with two maniacally satisfied Nie Sect Leader and a Jiang brother. They now only needed was a chance for them to slipped up for them to try this new methods. They have came up with many creative ways to try if, no, when they would encounter the next assassins.

Poor Nie Mingjue, he doesn't realize that he is slowly falling to the pit known as Wei Wuxian.

_________________

Nie Mingjue decided after a few hours to call it a night.

After Jiang Cheng left, not without going over to Wei Ying's bed and checking over him one more time, Nie Mingjue is the only one left inside the tent along with a sleeping Wei Wuxian as Hualian decided to leave for a while.

The discussion between the Jiang Leader has been an enlightening experience that's for sure. Sect Leader Jiang is undoubtedly still rough around the edges but with enough experience and learning on how to manipulate that temper of his, he'll make a very frightening figure for sure in the future.

He just sighed, stretched as his aching joints gives a satisfying pop from an admittedly long day.

'It has been a long day. First, I found Wei Wuxian, who I thought is doing something malicious, is actually a self-sacrificing idiot instead. Second, is about his golden core reveal and about two Wens who would help their supposed-to-be enemy. Lastly, I get to be informed that Wei Wuxian is being targetted.. Inside this camp where they should be feeling safe. By the hands of their own allies. Fucking Jins. Dastardly swines. What's next, someone other than a Jin bastard is also the reason of Wei Wuxian's near critical wound in the first place? Speaking if injuries, where did he get that injury-'

Nie Mingjue theory is interrupted by a mix of muffled groans and strangled shouts. His curiousity is piqued and instincts kicks in as he stride over the now wiggling mess of a dark cultivator who is trying, and failing, to sit up.

"Wh-where.. Ma.ma.. Pa.. I'm.. Please"

'Mo-motherr.. Fa-fa-father.. Pl. Please do.. Don't go.. Don't.. Don't leave us.' a memory of a younger Huaisang, face scrunches in distress and tears sliding across his deeply closed eyes, whimpering and cannot be waken up has resurfaced in his mind.

'Nightmare'

His hand moved on its own as he brush his hand across Wei Wuxian's bangs which are slicked with sweat. He continued this motion until the eyebrows stopped scrunching in distress. That is where Nie Mingjue's hands paused in their ministration as he registered what he was doing.

Wei Wuxian, as if sensing that the person's warmth paused and slowly inching away, has once again released a pained whimper and there goes Nie Mingjue's protests.

He may be strict and a terrifying figure meant to strike fear to other cultivators, but his Nie disciples knew otherwise. He shows his affection through his own version of a tough love and his disciples, Nie Huaisang especially knew this. Instead of soft encouraging words, he use his excuse of training so that when he died, Nie Huaisang will he able to protect himself and their people. The only time and one person who someone saw this soft side of him is when Huaisang is still but a young child when their last parent died and nightmares plagued his unconscious form in every turn.

Sighing, he sat on the offered chair next at the bed side and resumes brushing Wei Wuxian's hair. Even if he didn't know Wei Wuxian that much, he decided that he will put a bit of trust to this person that his little brother has proclaimed to be his first, and closest, friend that he keeps writing on his letters when Huaisang is studying on Gusu for the 3rd time.

"Do-don't leave me. Please... Mama..Pa.. I'm sorry.. So. Sorry.. Xian-Xian's.. Sorry. I'm poison
.I.. I.. I didn't... Mean.. To. " a lot fresh tears are now slipping down the pale cheeks as sobs wreck his seemingly fragile form. Both hands are clenched hard on the mattress and the other reaching over nothing but air.

'Poison!? Don't tell me he's also... Fuck..' aside from his busy processing mind, outwardly he softly brush Wei Wuxian's hair. He knows from experience that when he grab that outreach hand, he'll never get that hand back.

Thoughts stuck in the moment and the whirling thoughts, worry and rage. He knows he should go now. Sleep on his own much preferred bed than sit and most likely fall asleep on this uncomfortable chair next to a person who he doesn't even know that much and hardly even interacted with.

Except, he somewhat does know him. He did hear out his backstory on how he become who he is now after all.. But this is still new territory. He is not gentle and the only time he is like this is when he and Huaisang are just child.

Why am I even here?

He don't know why he's acting protective. Is it because he's feeling a bit.. Fine.. A lot guilty for violating his code of justice and immediately judging him? Is it because maybe he's more tired than he thought, overall more exhausted and so done for today? or maybe it was because seeing such a strong and high person let out such a truly anguish sound and hearing him whisper, and believe, that he is poison after hearing Wei Wuxian's story have triggered his protective instincts to stay? He don't know. And if someone ask him, well they can just fuck off as this is none of their business.

He had also gone almost 3 days of no sleep now with a few naps in between. Maybe a short nap wouldn't hurt. Just for 1 hour though and nothing longer. Then tomorrow, he'll talk to Wei Wuxian about his mindset and to confirm a slowly forming alarming theory of his.

With these in mind, he decided to close his eyes for a while amd after a few minutes he's out like a light.

___________________

On the other hand, this creates a tad sense of comfort and warmth that unconsciously draw away the malicious echo-y shouts and taunts of voices that originally dwells in Wei Wuxian's head.

That night is the first night that Wei Wuxian have slept like a content child since the burning of lotus pier.

____________________

That night is almost a quiet one. In one tent in the Nie Sect Area, one hand unconsciously dropped downwards at the bed mattress but after a while, the occupant of the bed had felt the soft dip near his face and so, reached over to grasp at the limp hand and interlock the two hands together.

____________________

Wei Wuxian has woken up from his lovely sleep. Eyes still closed as he thought about how well rested he was in the first time in like, forever.

'Well rested than that night Sect Leader Nie has found me even!'. The corner on his mouth is tugged upwards that paints his still groggily face.

As he leisurely took his time to open his closed eyelids, after he opened them, what greets him is another man's hand interlock with his own.

How nice... It's been a while someone have held my hand like this..
.
.
.
Wait..
.
.
Another man's hand?!

His still glazed eyes eyes gradually widen as questions and speculations crossed his mind.

Who have the audacity and balls to hold a dark cultivator's hand?!

Is it Jiang Che- yeah nope. He may be a secret softie but he won't allow to show such affection in new territory.

Lan Zhan?' Perking up a little when another thought bursts his bubble '.. No.. He wouldn't want to visit. Though I guess if he have heard the news he would come over and stayed for a while. He's nice like that.. It's been a while since we talked face to face without bursting into an argument. To have him visit me..' shaking away such worthless daydreams, he continued his little investigation.

'Anyway. This hand has more callouses, a bit larger and has more callouses from Lan Zhan's familiar lean and long fingers that's for sure.. And warm.. A welcoming warmth that is borderline hot..

Feeling a bit warm in his cheeks, which he puts aside, he finally has enough guessing as he peak at the person that he is hand holding with.

He follows the path of the arm that the hand belongs to, and he almost choke at his own saliva at the very familiar handsome and chiseled face of Sect Leader Nie. Looking at the, not very peaceful, but somewhat relaxed posture and the stress lines are abated and smoothened slightly as soft snores that came from parted lips as he sleeps sitting on his seat. The other hand is located at his saber. Which puts a nail on the coffin.

'Wait. That face. And saber. It's... It's definitely Sect Leader Nie indeed!

As he drives his mind into an overload on the why is the famed Chifeng-Jun sleeping so close to him, a dark cultivator?! It does not help that he felt a bit off and his analytical thinking is slower than usual, but he brush it off for now as he can't miss this opportunity.

Since Wei Wuxian is a shameless virgin anyway, he can't help but take advantage of such a rare opportunity-

(In the future, when he look back, the rare will become usual soon enough.)

-And keeps his gaze fixated on the slumbering Leader. Dark eyebags are not that prominent like last night he noted. He doesn't know why but the urge to smile at his sleeping companion is there.

This may be the only chance he will get to see such a reputed person sleeping next to him after all.. Though at the same time, he can't help but to worry and think that, lowering his defenses like this. He doesn't even know me that much! Why?! I'm poison! He ignore that words, even in the darkest corners of his mind, he believes these claims. What else can he be called when all the people he is with and holds dear goes down dead like flies?! His mom, dad, Madam Yu, Uncle Jiang, his sect brothers and sisters.. All of it is his fault. All his.

"-I'm poison.. Why are you still here, lowering your guard at that. I don't want to hurt anymore people than necessary you know. I have enough of innocent bloods staining my already sinned hands. " he blurted out without his consent. His hand, squeezing the other a bit tight. Thinking that the other is still deep asleep and a bit dazed to even observe if he is truly alone with his thoughts properly.

"Shut up. Didn't I already told you to stop thinking about that, you brat. " a deep somewhay groggy voice replied.

Startled, he quickly looks up. He didn't noticed that while he was drifting into his mind, he mumbled outloud the words that is supposed to be locked inside that only he, himself, knows.

He must be pretty out of it if he can't even control his blabbering mouth from spewing informations that isn't supposed to be shared.

'Someone must have given me a strong kind of medicine for cultivators while I was asleep and it still hasn't worn off. Damn it Wei Ying you just have to completely forget to do a self check! Idiot, idiot, idiot!'

"Se-Sect Leader Nie! I.. You're awake!" despairing at the stutter.

This makes the other raise his eyebrow in confusion.

"Of course I'm awake. Why shouldn't I? There is still so much to do and no time to just lay around." true.

Nie Mingjue casually slipped his hand back towards himself as he stands up and cross his hands together to heave up popping away the tenseness that he gets for falling asleep sitting in an obviously uncomfortable chair the whole night.

As Nie Mingjue took his own hand back, Wei Wuxian felt a pang of something that makes him wanna take back that hand and squeezed it a bit longer. After that though, he notices that there is a tiny hint of pink peaking at Sect Leader Nie's cheeks for a moment before he turned away.

I.. Is Sect Leader Nie.. Blushing!? Probably embarrassed at getting caught in the act. Wei Wuxian internally smirk at finding something to tease the Sect Leader. But then again, maybe it's just part of my imagination.'

Sighing and turning his neck right and left to massage the tight feeling at his neck away, and to get rid of that growing warmness at his cheeks. Wei Wuxian better not bring it up', he walked over to slightly open the flap of the tent to look outside and take note that sun is already up and the noise of the early risers ready to train. 'Damn it. I am only supposed to take a 1 hour shut eye, not sleep all the way.'

Wei Wuxian have already told the man his traumas, though not his childhood, what one more can do? Apparently the tea can also be use as a somewhat truth serum for civilians. 'Best to keep that information to myself for future uses.'

Wait.. Already?

"Sect Leader Nie.. I never remembered uttering those words other than right now.. What do you mean by 'already' like you have told me about them earlier so?" my mind is slowly turning back to it's clear state. That's good.

"Because you indeed said them. Keep up."

"Oh give me a break, I didn't know that the Nie Sect teas are quite heavy that their effects make even civilians feel drunk " Wei Wuxian snark back while rolling his eyes. 'An opening! Great, now I just gotta prolong this tea discussion and wait until Hualian comes in or until my mind is fully cleared now. There is no way he'll be able to visit again so soon with all the general business he'll need to attend to.' a pang of guilt hits him at the thought of just laying down here while Jiang Cheng, Nie Mingjue, and Lan Zhan has to be on the frontline to battle.

"That's Hualian for you. She makes very heavy teas on purpose to make sure to knock a high level cultivators down after taking half to whole cup. And no, only Hualian and Huaisang knows how to make it." seemingly to instinctively know what question will come next.

Blinking his eyes innocently, "But I did not ask anything Sect Leader Nie"

"Oh shut up. Who are you trying to fool by that innocent look act. Even if I don't know you much, you have the same look Huaisang have when he is trying to escape our discussions... Or when he is planning something mischievous." Nie Mingjue can't help but narrow his eyes as the other just continued to hold up his act.

"So don't you think you can just escape our earlier discussion as well Wei Wuxian." Crossing his arms across his arms, his posture straight and commanding to keep the attention to himself, "If why you think you are poison is because of the Lotus Pier Massacre," at the sight tightening and narrowing of Wei Wuxian's eyes, he knows he hits a bingo, "just to be clear, the death of Madam Yu, Sect Leader Jiang, your Sect brothers and sisters deaths, are not your fault. The Wen sect would have attacked either way. They have always have been power-hungry bastards at the beginning and it just continues to worsen overtime." Nie Mingjue delivered his words bluntly and straight to the point -

(Funny how that offhanded comment helped assuage the guilt more than any other attempts though if Wei Wuxian is being honest. He thinks about Jiang Cheng's efforts of subtle interrogation of where he'd been this past months but most of those reasons circle around him so I can't tell him even if I want to. Shije is also off limits as I don't want to further burden her with my problems and I also can't tell Lan Zhan about them as he'll just see it as another reason on why I should go to Cloud Recesses with him and make me stop using the only cultivation that would protect me and my only remaining loved ones. )

- Nie Mingjue continues on speaking as if he did not notice how the other has relaxed at the beginning but suddenly tensing.

"Believe my words or not is your choice. Just know that what is happening now is inevitable. What we can do though," Wei Wuxian can see the fire screaming for justice on the Sect Leader Nie's eyes ",is to do our best to defeat those Wen dogs and avenge those who have fallen and tortured by their hands."

The drive to protect and avenge, Wei Wuxian suddenly feels the same intensity burning through him. His fears quieten for that moment and a bit of his past self shines through as if being brought out by Nie Mingjue's drive and nonchalance. Like he was stating a fact.

Nie Mingjue looks like a true War God with his unbreakable drive and saber loyally attached at his side. This is the General that me and the other cultivators follow. He thought.

His confident and sure declaration and stance that also makes others believe in him and have faith that they will win this awful war.

The sun streaming inside the room from the slightly fluttering open and closing flap of the tent and basking the Sect Leader with it's golden sunlights and highlighting his eyes, the natural lighting making him even more-

(If someone points out Wei Wuxian's thoughts are, they would assumed that he is a cut sleeve or something. Even if Wei Wuxian told them otherwise. )

"..Handsome." Wei Wuxian mumbles under his breath that will make even cultivators have trouble disseminating. Which Nie Mingjue indeed replied with a grumbled order of "What? Speak louder".

Instead of going back to tensing, Wei Wuxian just gives a genuine, with a hint of his usual sexy, grin and pretends to swoon.

"Sect Leader Nie~ if you don't stop, I might actually just fall for you~ Is it not enough that you've got to hold my hand throughout the night~? Oh what would people say~?" Wei Wuxian teasingly said as he took a bit of his hair to twirl around with as he enjoyed looking at the gradually flustering Sect Leader under his eyelashes.

"Wh-What!? Shameless!" he knows he is handsome and many have claimed to have been in loved with him, but no one else have ever outright teased him about it! Who would have the guts to act so familiar with a famed presumed to be short-tempered and intimidating Sect leader after all?

'Apparently Wei Wuxian', his mind supplied, nonetheless he just cough and turned his definitely still burning face away, "And I certainly did not hold your hand. Willingly. I must have dropped it and you're the one who did it." he scoffed.

"Ahh~ if that is indeed the case then I'll take responsibility Sect Leader Nie~" battering his eyelashes at the other, enjoying the flustered responsive expression he is seeing. Now this is normal territory that he knows how to navigate at.

"An-Anyway, Hualian must be on her way back now since this is usually the time she eats breakfast and wake her patients up. You just stay there and don't you dare move a muscle or I'll find out about it and tell her so that she can make you drink her tea again." He tried to look threatening but in Wei Wuxian's eyes, it just makes him want to tease and make the older cultivator more flustered.

The teasing glint in his eyes are either pretty noticeable or Nie Mingjue just have that good of an intuition as he just walks out of the tent immediately.

Wei Wuxian can't keep the amused laugh that is bubbling over him even if he tried, while Nie Mingjue also felt like he have accomplished a heavy feat and won when he heard such carefree laugh coming from the normally solemn and graved dar- cultivator.

As both are alone with their thoughts, they can't help to think, what happens now?

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