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Chapter Text

Nie Mingjue could tell no one.

He had woken up back in his body as a teenager, a year or so after his Father’s Death. At first, he didn’t believe that this was real. It was a trick of death or something, but after a few days, he realized it was real.

Which meant he had to act fast.

It took a few tries, but eventually, he met with the other Sect Leaders. His blood lust and want to kill were nowhere near as it would be in a few years.

No, Nie Mingjue was able to control his anger for now, and he hoped it would stay like this for a while. It was strange to be sitting with the other four great Sect Leaders. His disgust for two of them coiled his stomach; however, he mentioned that he was aware that Wen Ruohan was slowly starting to rule over them.

He had no idea what the fuck he started, but somehow it ended with a marriage agreement.

Somehow.

Some damn way.

Nie Mingjue was invited to an extraordinary wedding between Lan Qiren and Wen Ruohan.

That was a plot twist he did not see coming, but the bonding charm seemed to satisfy the Wen Leader, who said he eagerly waited for his lover to join him once the Twin Jades were of age.

“Aren’t they lovely?” Nie Huaisang said, still a child fanning himself as he watched the wedding ceremony. "It's like a lost love story!”

While the younger Nie was smiling, happy to be at a wedding, Nie Mingjue was staring with an open mouth, shock, and disgusted confusion until Lan Xichen caught into his hand and gave him an odd look.

How the hell did he stop a damn war by having them married?!

How the fuck did this even happen?!

Nie Mingjue had no clue, and he was in the stupid room when it happened.

--

Years passed, and aside from a few little pops of a certain Jin, things seemed to be going smoothly. A few times, when Wen Ruohan grew impatient in waiting for Lan Qiren to come live with him, Nie Mingjue did not so subtly tell the Grandmaster that Wen was acting strange.

Even if he hated the fact that he was kind of…. Sending a friend to distract the madman seemed to help. It was odd that the Grandmaster seemed happier, but he pushed those thoughts aside.

He was waiting for Meng Yao to show up. He hated the fact he’d have to deal with him, but if he could stop Meng Yao from becoming a snake, he damn would do it!

As the years passed, Nie Mingjue wondered where the hell he was because he was sure it was about the time he met him. It wasn’t until he was out eating with Lan Xichen one day that reality slammed into him.

“Damn it!” Nie MIngjue said suddenly, startling his friend, who blinked at him in surprise. “I’m an idiot!”

“Are you alright, Dage?” Lan Xichen asked curiously, unsured to see him look pissed at the air? Looking up, he was trying to see what captured his attention., “What is it?”

Rubbing his face, he grumbled. “Nothing, I just realized why I haven’t seen Meng Yao.”

When he had traveled back mentally, he might have been slightly sneaky in telling Madam Yu about seeing Jin Guangshang in brothels and providing their names and such, which led to Madam Jin not only keeping a closer eye on her husband but also hearing she was beating him a few times a week.

Gah.

And enough time had passed since Meng Yao was first kicked down the Koi Tower Stairs. Wait, he hadn’t heard any rumors as he had before, and damn, made the CUltavation love to gossip.

“Dage, did you hear me?”

“What?” Blinking, Nie Mingjue looked at the first Twin Jade. “Ah, sorry. Hey, listen, Lan Xichen,”

“Yes?”

“Have you heard of anyone getting kicked down Koi Tower?”

“Um,” Lan’s didn’t gossip. “I do not believe I have.”

Wait, didn’t Meng Yao go? Hadn’t he gone? But he had! That much he knew. He went back to thinking about why Meng Yao hadn’t shown up. A million scenarios raced in his head, from whether the youngest Sworn Brother had been born to him dying young or had been accepted, but there had been no news of a newly claimed Jin.

Standing, Nie Mingjue grabbed his outer coat. “I need to go.”

“Where are you going?”

Still lost in his thought, he answered without thinking. “I need to find Meng Yao.”

With that Lan Xichen watched him leave. “…Who is Meng Yao…?”

He was curious.

--

Yunping was a lively place, and it was under the rule of the Yunmeng Jiang Clan, but primarily those without any Golden Core. Most of them were regular humans.

Nie Mingjue had hurried here, sure that Meng Yao was up to something—he had to be! As he walked around,, he came across the brothel where the vile snake had grown up.

Looking up at it, he caught the notice of several of the Workers who were watching and waiting for customers. One of them noticed his Clan Symbol before sprinting inside.

Nie Mingjue was debating on going in. It was still daylight, an hour or two would be sunset. He was sure he’d find some clue on where Meng Yao could have gone.

After avoiding full-on war, he was sure that at this moment, Nie Mingjue would find him here. If there was no war, he'd most likely have grown up here, and if he left, he’d be able to find out where.

“Ah, what an honor,” A man came out bowing deeply. “Who would have thought another Sect Leader would grace us with his presence.”

Ugh, so the slut-er, Jin Guangshang, had been here not too long ago. Wonderful. Trying not to get angry, he felt a vein in his head starting to throb. He forced it away, looking at the man.

“I’m looking for someone,” Maybe he should have worded it better, but he was offered to go inside. He walked in and sat at a huge table, and in seconds, he was surrounded by women and men. Alright, he could handle this; he just needed to get some answers. He gently moved one woman off his lap before clearing his throat. “Do you have anyone here with brown hair?”

Oh shit, he said that, and suddenly, they all seemed to switch, and he just paused, realizing what he had done. He cannot be this dumb, this was a damn brothel!

However, that didn’t stop them from swarming him, and oh god, was someone nuzzling him?! He moved them back, holding up his hand, and to his surprise, they moved.

“Sect Leader Nie,” One of the people he had brought with him; the man was trying hard not to look at one of the Prostitutes that was pretty much in his lap and resiting everything in his power to touch them, even if it was to move them away. “Sir, why are we here?”

Excellent, he dragged people into it. He cleared his throat, saying he heard the food was good, which was true; he had food Meng Yao had made while he worked in the brothel, and to be frank, it was rather tasty.

Soon, food was being made and brought out. Trying to get rid of the issue of having all the workers, he tried saying he wanted to eat, and damn it! He had several people trying to feed him!

Kind of nice.

No!

He had more honor than that!

Damn it, the food was good! He took time to look around, trying to see if a bookkeep, cook, or anything else he knew Meng Yao worked as until he left to get another job Nie Mingjue scanned the place while having several issues- um, workers clinging to him, and at some point, he had one male and female in his lap feeding him.

Unable to spot Meng Yao, he needed something to drink, so he called out for some Yellow River Vally. He needed a more potent drink, but it was good and would help.

The scents of perfume, sex, and food were irritating his nose. The constant talking from the workers didn’t help, as his mind tried to think about where and when he could leave to explore and find Meng Yao.

A cup was set down, and the wine was poured. A small hand with a spoon mixed it, then lifted it to taste it. With the approval of one of the Nie Soldiers, who took the spoon and sipped the wine, he deemed it safe for his Leader to drink.

Having closed his eyes while getting aggravated, he wanted to shove them off, but they had done nothing but try to do their job. He planned on leaving money for them, maybe a few coins each. Hell, he didn’t know how much to leave them. As he opened his eyes, reaching to grab the cup, he had it half lifted his lips when he paused.

The person who had poured the wine stood from his bow, dressed in robes that showed off his large eyes. His waist was pulled tight, his hair was up, and he had applied makeup. His soft, dimpled smile as he turned to leave shocked Nie Mingjue.

Meng Yao did still work at the brothel.

“Do you like that one?” The Owner asked. “That one is called Meng Yao, and the Sect Leader would be pleased to know that not only is he a virgin, but he is in high bidding.”

WHAT.

THE.

HELL?!

The wine fell from the cup while Meng Yao walked away, leaving Nie Mingjue in shock.

Chapter Text

Meng Yao was brushing his hair.

It had gotten tangled while he was serving a Customer. He was too drunk and, having gotten too handsy had messed up his hair when a guard came to pull him off.

Luckily, it was only a gross kiss, and his lip was a bit swollen from the harsh kiss. Back in his room that was his, he was alone being saved for someone who’d pay a high price.

Somehow, the Owner had found out that he was Half Jin. On that day, he had nearly separated himself and his Mother. It wasn’t until Meng Shi had said she’d teach him all of her talents if the Owner would let them stay together.

It was a confusing time for Meng Yao, but he had been stripped of his essential servant clothing and dressed in nicer robes. His Mother had started to add oils and perfumes to his hair, the lotions that he used rarely were now freely used, the food he was allowed to eat increased, and he was bathed twice a day for a week with rose water and other herbs.

He had been presented with a high price, much more than he had seen on any of the men and women who lived and worked there. Since no one seemed to meet the desired price, Meng Yao assumed that the Owner would lower it.

Instead, the Owner had refused.

Meng Yao had a feeling there was a reason. One that he started to look into over the years, but it wasn’t until his Mother fell ill and before her death told him who his Father was.

For a moment, he hoped that his Father would come to save him from this life. Where he had been groped and touched, luckily, they were all ripped off him before they could go further, yet the fear and sick feeling of them trying left him constantly looking over his shoulder.

Tragically, his Mother told him that his Father would not come for him. She never lied to him and so he believed her. But it explained why the Owner was keeping him a virgin until he was sold.

After all, a bought Consort that was pure was valuable. He could play, dance, sing, cook, clean, and sew, perfect for anyone who purchased him.

Even now, he has brought in good money for the owner. Others came to hear him play;; they loved his food, music, and everything else. One person, a wealthy old man, paid for hours just to lay his head on Meng Yao’s lap because, according to the man, Meng Yao gave the best head massage, just like his wife, who passed away years ago.

Irony, this old man was the best of his customers.

The others tried to touch them; a few grabbed at him. Once, he slapped someone who tried to slip their hands into his robes. The man, a nobleman, had been hauled off, but Meng Yao had been beaten as punishment.

A commotion from outside had him look over while he finished trying his hair back up into its high ponytail, then slipping the clips and hair pieces into them.

He peeked out of his window, just missing someone walking in. Looking at the horses and the rest standing outside waiting, he realized they were essential guests.

For a second, he thought it might be his Father; after all, the man had a taste of several of the prostitutes here. He paused, making a face, not wanting to see that man from afar.

Those horses were Nies…

“Meng Yao, we have important guests!” Someone called. “They want wine, hurry up!”

“Coming!” Meng Yao looked back out, frowning. “What are the Nie’s doing here?”

He had never heard of a Nie so high up being here.

Rushing down to the kitchen, he searched through the best sections. Just as he was going to take out samples, someone rushed in, yelling at him to get a Wine.

It was so plain and cheap that Meng Yao wondered if it was a Captain or General. Maybe just some soldiers? His curiosity peeked. Taking the tray, wine jar, and cups, he headed out.

At the head of the table, Meng Yao paused. Even sitting, Meng Yao could tell this man was huge. He had broad shoulders and a strong jaw, and two people sat comfortably in his lap. The man closed his eyes, pinching the space between his eyes, looking aggravated.

No, lost in thought, maybe? Some aggression. Moving forward, Meng Yao saw the symbol and bowed, set the tray down, and bowed again in awe because his heart was beating a little faster.

The Clan Leader Nie Mingjue!

What was he doing here?!

Meng Yao had seen the paintings from the last Five Great Sects Events! He had been widely discussing a marriage between the Wen and the Lan and bought a paper to help him recognize them.

This was the Leader.

Pouring the drinking for the Nie Sect Leader, he tasted it, then let the second in command, who was trying to act as if a body was in his arms, before nodded.

Standing, he bowed again and left, looking back with a smile. Smiles work so well, but the Nie Sect Leader looked at him in pause, and Meng Yao had to turn away, rushing back to the kitchen to help with food.

The paper did little justice!

The man was more handsome than he had thought!

--

What the hell?

What the hell…?!

Nie Mingjue took a few long seconds for his brain to realize it was Meng Yao! In robes that looked similar to the male prostitutes, and when the idiot man spoke about his former deputy being a virgin and up for bid, it had him sick.

“Off!” He said, slamming his hand on the table so hard it shook. The ones in his lap scattered for a second; he felt slightly bad for how they seemed to tremble, a few up their arms expecting to be hit. He just needed them to get off him! “That one that left, Meng Yao.”

“Yes, My Lord,” The Owner bowed. “Would Sect Leader Nie like the one called Meng Yao to attend to him?”

“I wish to speak with him.”

“Of course, just wait here. Well, I will prepare him.”

What?

Prepare him?!

Almost ten minutes later, the idiot returned, asking Nie Mingjue to follow him. Standing, he walked, waving his hand for his two guards to wait outside when they got to a room.

It opened, and he was led into the room, pausing. There was Meng Yao. From how he looked, it seemed someone had quickly put him into another robe, this one fancier than the last. The robe had been applied heavier, and there were books on the table, tea, wine, and some food, all of which he had ordered.

Meng Yao stood quickly, bowing low, then moved to kneel, his hands still in a low bow. He looked so tiny in his robes. Nie Mingjue went to move when the owner poke.

“This is Meng Yao, My Lord, the one you favored. He is, as I said, a virgin. He’s priced high for bidding that you may, of course, join in on. However, you can spend time with him for music and poems,” The listen went on with everything but sex on the table. “And of course, the guards will be allowed to remove, but please sign this session and let us know what you wish from him so we may… price his time with you properly.”

Heart-hammering, Meng Yao wondered how to please the man. He wanted wine. Pouring him drinks was simple enough, yet he was unsure how to serve a Sect Leader.

The best, of course!

Yet, he felt his stomach twisting, worrying about if he messed up.

“I wish to speak with him, and I’ll pay for it,” Nie Mingjue waved at the man. He did want food, but he had to talk with his murderer first. “I won’t touch him.”

How insulting to think he would touch anyone like that! The owner had him sign, then left the room, and the guards stood just beside him. Nie Mingjue walked over to the bowing body.

“Meng Yao.” He said, then paused, unsure of what to say.

“Sect Leader Nie,”

Oh, didn’t that send a warm ripple through him. The soft voice he recalled long ago when his deputy spoke to him. Soft, humbled, and like gentle honey.

“Thank you for picking this worthless one,” Meng Yao sat back on his legs with a smile. “This one is grateful for your purchased time.”

Oh, ew, why did that sound so wrong?!

Nie Mingjue opened his mouth, but nothing came out. Instead, he felt stupidly angry and had no idea how to talk to Meng Yao! This Meng Yao didn’t know what the hell happened in the past!

Meng Yao got nervous. The hair on the back of his neck started to stand on end when the Sect Leader scrolled, his eyebrows knitting together, and he seemed mad.

Shivering, Meng Yao bowed again. “Would Sect Leader Nie allow Meng Yao to serve him wine?”

Shit!

Fuck!

“Yes, that’s fine.” Quickly moving to the table, Nie Mingjue sat down, arms crossed. He watched as Meng Yao stood. The small male moved just as gracefully as ever, pouring the wine with such practiced ease. Looking at him as he did, Nie Mingjue watched him taste and test the drink first, then offered him the cup head-down. “…Meng Yao.”

“Yes, Sect Leader Nie?” Meng Yao kept his voice light.

Come on, say something!

“Food.” Stupid! The damn food was in front of him! He was looking away because why the hell was he feeling like an idiot?! He knew how to damn well eat food! Gah, but he was thinking of all the food Meng Yao used to make him! “Did you make it?”

“No, My Lord,” Meng Yao hadn’t made it since he had been busy but taste-tested food slowly, taking small bites with his chopsticks and nibbling it. “It’s safe to eat, My Lord.”

“Hm,” Looking away, he was thinking about how to speak with Meng Yao. He saw Meng Yao peeking at him through his small head bow and waved. Typically, this is a sign that Meng Yao is continuing to talk. Instead, Meng Yao started to put the food into a smaller bowl. Of course, it was perfect, and then he hummed. “Your food is better, isn’t it?”

The Sect Leader heard of his food?!

How amazing!

His talents had reached the Unclean Realm?!

“I have been grateful enough to inherit the skills from my Mother,” Meng Yao smiled. “If Sect Leader wishes… next time if he makes an appointment, then this One would happily make him any food he desires,”

“I shall do that,” It’d give him time to speak with him more; after all, he came here with a plan to talk to Meng Yao, but he had not thought too much of a plan. He looked him up and down. He had more on him than that starving bony body that first came to him. Now he looked as he had when Meng Yao lived with him. Healthy. The actual weight didn’t have the small deputy shivering even while covered in pelts and warm robes. “Your mother’s skills? Is she here?”

“My mother passed… a few years ago, My Lord,” Meng Yao’s eyes saddened, then cleared up. “Would Sect Leader like me to serve him?”

“Yes,” He held out his hand for the bowl only to almost have a heart attack when Meng Yao put his small hand in his and then moved to sit on his lap and held up a bite of food. This was not what he meant, but he really couldn’t think of anything, so he took the bite, still good food, not as good as Meng Yao’s, and he nodded. “It’s good.”

Smiling, Meng Yao fed the Sect Leader a few more bites, but the man seemed distracted. Just looking at him. Normally, these looks had lustful wants, which were something they wanted but couldn’t have.

This look was as if the man couldn’t decide on something. It was nice. Meng Yao thought that someone looked at him without lust or wandering hands.

After half the food was gone, the sect leader said, “You make dumplings with chicken and extra garlic?”

“I do,” Blinking Meng Yao was unsure how he knew that. He liked garlic in his dumplings a bit more, and others also seemed to enjoy it. His customers liked it more than the others, which got him more bids even if they hadn’t met the set one. “Would Sect Leader Nie like me to make some? Should he stay for dinner?”

Maybe he could get the Sect Leader to stay. Bringing in more money would get him noticed by other sects. Even if this man was here just to see him for a little while, Meng Yao knew better than to hope too high.

“I think that would be good,” Nie Mingjue looked at him again. Reaching over to get a drink, he paused, seeing Meng Yao's smile drop a little before he poured two cups of wine and held one to Meng Yao. “Drink,”

Meng Yao took a sip. He had already checked for poison, but he learned that if it eased the customer, then so be it. Hee watched the man down the first cup and then offered the second.

“That was in for you,”

“What?” For him?! A Sect Leader served him?! Tensing, face flushing red, he hunched down. “I should be serving you, Sect Leader Nie, this lowly one is not worthy of such an honor,”

“Why not?”

“I…” Looking down, he wasn’t sure what to say. He hated what he had to call himself and the names his mother had been called. A dread of anger started to bubble in his heart. Shame and embarrassment, and he tensed before setting down the bowl. “Would you like me to play music for you and sing?”

“No!”

Yelping, Meng Yao jumped, falling off the man’s lap, his arms went in case he was going to be hit. Closing his eyes, he braced for it. When nothing happened, he peeked, seeing the man standing with his back to him, shoulders tightly tensed, fists balled up so tight he swore he heard bones.

With deep, slow breaths, Nie Mingjue had to calm down the rage he felt. It twisted angrily, Bixia's blood lust eager to rise. Being ticked by the music that declared his death from someone he once trusted.

Someone he defended-!

The moment the thought started, it slammed to a halt. Once, he did defend Meng Yao to others, but when he came seeking help after all the hell that had occurred from the War, life after, being recognized as Jin, and each time the youngest Sworn Brother tried to speak of everything that happened, he shut it down.

Ignore Meng Yao’s complaints.

No, not complaints.

Pleas for help.

After death and waking once again in the past, he had time to come to terms with a lot. Gripping his head as it throbbed, he looked back, pausing, seeing Meng Yao scooting back, scared of him.

Unfortunately, this was not a new sight.

This time, however, with Nie Mingjue using less of his saber so he could be around longer, it unsettled something in his stomach. Turning, he was going to attempt to say something when Meng Yao quickly got into a Katow.

“This one is sorry!”

Stepping back, Nie Mingjue took a moment to take in the small body, shaking, an image from a long time ago, a past and future that no longer existed of Jin Guangyao in his robes, hand askew from being struck a moment before from the Nie Leader, begging for upsetting him.

The stomach feeling twisted worse recalling the reason for hitting Meng Yao at the time had been because he was pissed that he hadn’t been able to get Jin Guangshang to agree to… shit, he can’t even recall what it was.

Like always, a way to survive, Meng Yao made himself as small as possible. Begging to be spared, this time, there were no offerings; after all, the only thing that he had in this brothel was his virginity and his skills. The latter was not up for sale.

Not yet.

Grumbling, Nie Mingjue took a moment to absorb some breathing techniques that Lan Xichen had shown him. They helped, but he then moved to sit down in front of the trembling body, reaching out to put his hand on his shoulder. He hated how Meng Yao jumped in his bow.

“You did nothing wrong,” Nie Mingjue spoke, then held his head, a headache starting to replace the rage. “It’s nothing, just my head,”

Peeking up slowly, Meng Yao blinked slowly. “…Sect Leader has a Headache?”

“Yeah,” He nodded.

“I… I can help with that,”

Next thing Nie Mingjue knew, he had his head in Meng Yao’s lap, nimble tiny fingers massaging his head. This was nice. He used to like when his deputy would help ease a headache or migraine.

The soft hands worked their magic;. Having added a soothing oil rub that helped with headaches; Meng Yao was pleasantly happy with the outcome. This Sect Leader seemed noble,, just as the rumors had said.

At some point, the Owner came in to inform Nie Mingjue that his time was up, and Nie Mingjue was in heaven from the massage. He threw a whole bag of gold at the fool to leave them alone so he could enjoy a piece of an old memory once again.

Uknowest to him that while he was lying there enjoying the massage, Meng Yao's hopes of getting out of this place were starting to soar, and he was paying to his Mother in his head that a Sect Leader wanted him!

Surely, that’s why he stayed!

Now, all Meng Yao had to do was figure out how to seduce him so the man would buy his contract.

Nie Mingjue knew he was going to save Meng Yao from this life, but how was he going to get him out of there without looking like he was purchasing him for sex?!

Damn, this was going to be harder than he thought. An hour later, he sat up and turned to put his hands on Meng Yao’s shoulder. He swore in the past to protect his Sworn Brother but failed horribly. This time, he would not fail or ignore what was in front of him.

“Meng Yao.”

“Yes, my Lord?”

“I must leave. I’m due to a meeting, but I will stop by tomorrow before I do.” Nie Mingjue knew he was going to speak with the Owner to determine the high bid and take over. “I look forward to your dumplings, and until I return, I don’t want you to serve anyone else.”

Who knew what those filthy people who came here would do to Meng Yao?! No, he’d make sure that even if he wasn’t here the slots for him were all purchased, that way Meng Yao could have time for himself!

“You… when will you return?” Meng Yao's shoulders fell because surely this man wouldn’t be buying his time and not being here?! “Will it be long?”

“A week.” That way, he could devise a plan, talking to his brother—no, not him, Maybe Lan Xichen—for advice. “Then I’ll be back.”

A week?!

A whole week of free time?!

“That is kind of you, Sect Leader Nie,” Meng Yao was excited to be alone, but that didn’t mean it’d happen. Others had said this before while trying to get in touch. “But this one will be boring as I will have nothing to do,”

Ah, that’s right. It wasn’t like Meng Yao could leave this place, and if they had gone out, a guard accompanied them, ready to drag them back, if he remembered.

“What do you want?” Nie Mingjue knew he liked books. A few times, he found Meng Yao's painting. It was nothing like his brothers', but it did seem to be something he liked. “Books? Paints?”

“Books?”

Nie Mingjue recognized hope in his golden eyes, and he zoned in on them. He called out for one of the guards to get the owner informing him that he was going to leave Meng Yao with some money to spend to get books and other things he wanted.

Then to Meng Yao’s shock, he was handed over a ring of coins that the Sect Leader slipped on his wrist; oh crap, it was heavy! But he held his arm up, looking at it.

“That’s for you to spend how you please,” Nie Mingjue turned to the owner, walking towards him. “I will speak with you about Meng Yao’s time,”

Leaving the room feeling like he had done something noble and justifiable, Nie Mingjue felt very proud as he bought the rest of Meng Yao’s time for the week, knowing that Meng Yao had run to his room, lit up the incense in the burner his mother had gifted before her death, hands together.

“Mother,” he bowed to the painting of her. “Mother, there is a Sect Leader who has taken an interest in me. Not only has he been most kind, but he has also gifted him a week peace and money to buy things that this one never thought he’d be able to get,”

As he told his mother everything, Nie Mingjue left two of his own behind to make sure his takes were carried out before leaving to find an Inn so he could get some rest to think on how the hell he was going to, well, buy Meng Yao without going against his righteous morals that the others of the Five Great Sects would notice and he wished he had stayed a bit longer because he could use another head massage.

Hopefully, Meng Yao will be able to sleep peacefully tonight.

Meanwhile, back at the Brothel, Meng Yao had asked a few of the older male prostitutes to give him some hints on how to seduce someone as high and noble as a Sect Leader.

There was a lot of Meng Yao to study for.

Chapter Text

Meng Yao closed his eyes while two hands were scrubbing his hair clean. Due to the amount of money the Sect Leader had left, the Owner had someone send out some people to buy high-end bath soaps, herbs, and other such things.

The two older people he asked for help were helping him prepare for the Nie Sect Leader, who was supposed to stop by that evening before leaving for a week.

“Keep your eyes closed,”

Warm water poured over him, and honestly, this might be the most pampering he had ever had aside from the time he was so sick that people had to help him wash, eat, and such.

Other stuff was added to his hair: water, and by the time the water started to cool, he was out. they helped him dry up while another one fetched one of the robes.

“You're so small,” The older one commented. “I resized it the best I could,”

“Thank you,” Meng Yao closed his eyes again when a towel started to dry his face. “I need to hurry so I can make the food,”

“Don’t worry, you’ll be in regular robes until you're done, and we’ll help you change before he shows up. That way, your clothes won’t linger with the kitchen smells.”

“Thank you,” Meng Yao smiled, then took a breath. “They let me pick the best ingredients out,”

"I saw, and he's going to love your food."

"Remember what we taught you,"

"I will," 

It was a comment, a needy one. His mother had been gone for years, and he was the youngest in the brothel, the only youngest male. While it was harsh, sometimes he liked the attention the older ones would give him and smiled a little more than one of them patted his head saying that was good and to hurry and make dumplings for the Nie Sect Leader.

The Nie Sect Leader.

The title still made Meng Yao dizzy. Someone from the Five Great Sects, someone who, for all intents and purposes, was said to be more on a fighting level than someone who managed to get two Powerful Sects to marry.

Meng Yao, like most of the others, had wondered and dreamed of what the wedding had been like. The news had everyone in a better mood, even if they had a chance to eat better food; Meng Yao even got to wander around with some of the others, with guards, of course, but still… it was lovely.

Once in the kitchen, he made the dumplings, ensuring they were perfect. The Sect Leader Nie was a rather large man, so he made some extra meaty dishes.

By the time he was done, he was feeling a little nervous as his mind continued to overthink what would happen if his food didn’t live up to expectations. Meng Yao tried to keep his fears from overflowing by taking some slow, small breaths, followed by several long, deep ones.

They set things up in the room, receiving a letter that afternoon when the Sect Leader would arrive. The two Nie Guards Left Behind seemed to eye him mistrustingly, but he taste-tested the food before them.

Once they seemed assured of him tasting everything, Meng Yao started to set up the room a little more, pillows, and candles, he even put on more of the perfume scents one of the others gave him, pointing out it mixed the best with his natural scent.

He stepped out of the room to change into nicer clothes. He was thankful the older two had come to help them. One of them looked Disheveled, with messy hair, but there was no mention of why because they all knew what happened here daily.

He was. Still, he was comforted as the two sets of hands quickly helped him wrap in the layered and tied robes until he was ready. The last time was for touch-up makeup. They saw the Nie Colors for his eyes. He jumped slightly when his cheeks were pinched for a rosy color to add to the rouge, and he chewed on his lips, trying to plump them a bit more.

Rushing back to the room, he sat down and then let himself lie on his side, hip pushed up a little from the pillows, posing like they told him. He waited. Taking a breath, he looked over at the clock, which was slowly counting down with sand.

Just a bit longer.

All Meng Yao had to do was wait.

And wait.

And wait…

And…. Wait…

Rolling over onto his stomach, Meng Yao crossed his arms, resting his chin on them while kicking his feet slowly. Late. The Sect Leader was late. Did the meeting run long, or maybe he changed his mind?

But the time had all been bought up. He didn’t know if they wasted money like that. However, he was a powerful man, so who knew? Reaching into his sleeve pocket, he pulled out a book.

If he was late, Meng Yao might as well read!

With that in mind, he flipped over to the last spot. He stopped reading and let himself settle down until his customer came by.

--

The meeting at Lotus Peir wasn’t going the way it should have. And it should have ended hours ago if it hadn’t been for the bickering that broke out. It was stupid, but at least it was over.

Now that he was unsure how he saved the world, he no longer sat with certain Sect Leaders. Instead, he sat with the Four from his previous life: Wen Ruohan, Acting Sect Leader Lan Qiren, Jin Guangshang, and Jiang Fengmian.

The smaller Sects and whoever else was here, he knows that, right? Who are most of these people? Meng Yao would know. But Meng Yao didn’t know because he threw everyone off course! For the better, but still!

And did they have to set him right next to Lan Qiren?! He didn’t mind, but Wen Ruohan gave him small glaring glances! Who was not interested in that Man’s husband? If anything, they had been friends, nothing more!

“You do not seem interested, Sect Leader Nie,” Lan Qiren commented. “And you have glanced at the hourglass several times. Is something on your mind?”

Letting out a grunt, he nodded, eyebrows knitting. “I have somewhere to be.”

“And It cannot wait?”

“I made a promise to someone that I’d meet them for dinner,”

Behind Lan Qiren, only a foot or two, was Lan Xichen, who had been attending the meetings. He was coming of age the next year, so he was able to take over as Sect Leader. His uncle wanted to ensure he had enough experience to handle one of these independently.

Most of the time, his dear friend Nie Mingjue, whom he had known since childhood, would go with him after a small bite of food or eat here before he went to bed.

“Someone?”

“If Sect Leader would just shut up, or that idiot,” He glared at Jin Guangshang, who was trying not to flirt for once. But then again, he could only guess that was because his son was there preparing to take over one day, too, so if he didn’t want Madam Jin to find out, he would keep his flirting down to a minute. “I promised Meng Yao, yet I’m here with the same stupid things repeated.”

There was that name again.

It piqued Lan Xichen's curiosity. He listened to his Uncle trying to calm Nie Mingjue. One thing he was happy about his the new marriage between his Uncle and… well, anyways, was that he seemed to have relaxed a lot more and even had patience enough to deal Nie Mingjue’s anger.

He was sure it was because his friend knew better than to try to do anything stupid enough to ensure the wrath of his Step-Uncle. They made a lovely couple, he admitted, and balancing each other out.

As they spoke amongst themselves, Lan Qiren insisted that Nie Mingjue get the person a gift to compensate for their lateness. They had a smaller conversation before returning to the meeting.

To no one's surprise, not much got down, but finally, everyone was set to go their way. Lan Qiren bid farewell to everyone and shortly after joined his husband as they headed off.

“You seemed to have made a friend?” Lan Xichen inquired with a smile. “I recall you mentioned him before?”

“Ah, yes,” Nie Mingjue took a moment because shit. Lan Xichen didn’t know Meng Yoa here. Clearing his throat. “I think I should heed your Uncle’s advice. Something to bring him would be a good idea.”

“Would you like me to help you?”

“Yes, besides, I haven’t been able to speak with you since getting here,”

Smiling, Lan Xichen walked by the taller man’s side. “I’ve missed you as well.”

They walked into the town, and Lan Xichen helped Nie Mingjue pick something up. With the gift in hand, Nie Mingjue hopped on his sword and flew back to the City, ready to apologize.

Not in words but with a gift.

--

By the time Nie Mingjue reached the brothel, it was closer to midnight than dinner. Even though the nightlife and brothels were alive with entertainment, he walked into the brothel, almost ignoring the Owner.

He paused, sensing two people glaring at him. Stopping for a second, he noticed two male prostitutes who were carrying drinks and food. The way they looked at him, he swore, was that they looked him up and down with distance in their eyes before walking away.

Frowning, he moved, unaware they were judging him silently.

When he reached the room, he waved his guards off and let himself in. Stepping in, he closed the door, and when he turned to speak with Meng Yao, he paused and blinked.

On the pillows was Meng Yao, curled up on his belly asleep, hands clutching a book, and he looked like he had been nearly done with it. Walking closer, he took in the array of food made. Cold by now, but they were covered.

Picking one up, removing the cloth he saw the dumplings he enjoyed so much. Picking on up, even cold, he took a moment to recall when he was up late working on war plans, and Meng Yao would leave for a short while only to return with food and drink.

Taking a bite, even cold, they were just as delicious as he remembered. Memories of their time flowed into his mind. Setting the bowl down, he walked over and sat near Meng Yao, watching him sleep.

The times he found Meng Yao sleeping resurfaced. He smiled. Reaching down he grabbed a blanket so he could cover Meng Yao. When he did the younger woke up, blinking quickly, the small jump didn’t go unnoticed.

“Sect Leader Nie!” Meng Yao scrambled to sit up, bowing. “I’m sorry, I fell asleep. Please forgive this one!”

--

Lan Xichen had landed a few minutes before. Looking around, he looked around. It might be pushing the rules a bit, but he wanted to know who seemed to take all of Nie Mingjue’s attention.

Walking around, he looked for any sign of the man when he noticed some Nie Horses nearby. Walking over, he looked at them, noticing they were probably traveling by foot since Nie Mingjue liked having soldiers to keep an eye out while traveling.

As he walked by the building, he glanced at the brothel but continued, only stopping when he heard people talking. It was against the rules to listen to gossip or engage in conversation, but he stopped to ask if they had seen the Sect Leader.

The people were quick to say the man had gone into the brothel.

Nie Mingjue?!

His oldest, dearest friend in a brothel?!

Looking back, he was bewildered. Nie Mingjue had such high standards for himself that the righteousness he preached was impossible to overlook. Why was he here?

A part of him wanted to know, so he walked in, unsure, oh, if his Uncle or any Elders knew of him giving into gossip and sneaking around… well, and a brothel.

In seconds, a man approached him. “Ah, good Sir! I see you are from the Lan Sect!”

“Yes, I’m looking for…” Lan Xichen paused because what if Nie Mingjue wasn’t even here? What if he made a mistake? If so, he’d spread a horrible lie about his friend. No, he couldn’t do that, so he used the name that he had heard his friend say. “I’m looking for Meng Yao?”

Hopefully, this person would forgive him for using his name.

The Owner paused. “I’m sorry, dear sir, you are looking for Meng Yao?”

“Oh, perhaps I have the wrong place,” If this mystery person wasn’t here, neither was Nie Mingjue. Smiling, he started to leave. “I apologize I will be on my way,”

“Wait, wait, wait,” The man waved. “He is here but he is with Sect Leader Nie,”

So, Nie Mingjue was here!

“Ah, I knew my friend was coming to see Meng Yao,” This was true. Turning back, he smiled a little more at the man. “I’m Lan Xichen. Will you take me to them, please?”

“…The First Twin of Jade?!”

Lan Xichen felt a bit nervous as nearly everyone close by seemed to lock onto them, wide eyes and gasps. He kept his face calm, but he had this odd feeling of being watched like an animal who should be considered prey.

“My Lord, Zewu-Jun,” He bowed. “Please, this way."

Following he tried not to acknowledge the looks. Going upstairs, he tried not to look around. He had heard of establishments like this. It was disrespectful to look, but when they got to a door with Nie Soldiers, who looked surprised to see him, he heard someone call his friend's name and shout out an apology.

Opening the door, he paused, seeing his friend there, back to him. However, there was a person in front of him, who had his hands pressed together in apologies. Then, very big, very lovely eyes shifted to him in confusion, and he slowly blinked.

A skip, a thump in his heart did a funny flip, his belly fluttered, his mouth ran dry, and he stared shamelessly at this person. Gulping, he tried to get some dryness out of his throat.

“Xichen?!” Nie Mingjue looked at him in shocked confusion. “What are you doing here?!”

Meng Yao’s eyes traveled from Sect Leader Nie to the person behind him, and when the man said that name, it came slamming down. The heir to the Lan Clan?!

Here?!

Why?!

“I, um, followed you,” Lan Xichen admitted, face flushing with embarrassment and something else. “I also came here to meet the one called Meng Yao.”

Nie Mangue’s mouth fell open. “What?!”

Oh shit! If anyone found out that Lan Xichen was here…! Crap, if they found out it was his fault, he was sure to have Lan Qiren down his neck, worse, the other’s new husband coming for his life!

Meng Yao's hands went from being pressed together, asking for forgiveness, to a small prayer to his Mother.

Two.

Two Sect Leaders came to see him!

Meng Yao had to Sect Leaders who wanted to see him!

Nie Mingjue was pissed thinking about all the ways he was going to die a second time, Lan Xichen felt like a child being caught and Meng Yao was thanking his mother and any god up there who had blessed him with Sect Leaders!

He was going to get out of here!

A happy dance played out in his head as he smiled widely, his eyes shining with hope that he would get out of there!