#multi chapter work

WARNING: Ghost City's...interesting food options up ahead...

Read to the end for more notes:

As ducks take to water, the Wens managed to fit right into their temporary settlement. 

Most of them left the inn they were staying at, scattering all over Ghost City. Finding the odd job or two. Most decided to be washers, servers, crafters or seamstresses. Taking most of the kids -they ones they collected while on the run- with them as their apprentices. Leaving A-Yuan with his Baba. Some of the Wens split off from the smaller groups, deciding to open up small businesses, such as an embroidery shop or put up stands to sell common everyday items, like paper umbrellas, fans, jade pendants and so on.

Only a few stayed to help Uncle Four with his new winery business. Which, after the impromptu sampling Wei Wuxian offered at the Gambler’s Den, turned out to be a success. So much so that they had to close up shop a few hours after opening because they ran out of drinks and snacks.

For his part, Wei Ying moved into one of the rooms on the winery’s upper-floor. Spending his days mucking around with A-Yuan and his nights experimenting with human-sized arrays, interconnecting them, creating a long chain spiralling around the spare room’s floor, forming it into confusing patterns that would have the most-skilled cultivator scratching their heads, before clicking his tongue in irritation and scraping it. Wei Ying would then proceed to re-draw them, repeating this odd ritual until the first crack of dawn.

Wen Qing and Wen Ning would often peek into the room, watching the young man tirelessly working under the dimming lanterns, eyes squinting from the low light, feeling their knees twinge in sympathy while the new Calamity knelt on the floor for hours on-end, labouring away on Heavens’ know what.

Neither sibling had the heart to tell Wei Ying to stop. Knowing damn-well that whatever he was doing was for their family’s sake.

After one too many nights of no sleep or regular meals, Uncle Four finally put his foot down.

“Why don’t you and Yaun’er go for a stroll, hmm?” Uncle Four suggested, noticing that the younger man was getting antsy. He also knows that Wei Ying would most likely leave the room only for A-Yuan’s sake.

Poor lad likely met another dead end. Being holed up in a small room with nothing but your thoughts circling around your head… That’ll drive him mad one of these days. The elder man thought grimly. 

Wei Ying winced at the suggestion. A-Yuan refuses to go anywhere without his father there in his line of sight. Whenever Wei Ying would leave the upper-floor space, wanting to help Uncle Four and the others with the growing business, the child would pace around the hall, constantly asking Granny or Qing-jie where his Baba was every five minutes. The first time his son saw the crowd of rowdy ghosts on opening-day, the boy scrambled up to his room and refused to come out until they all left.

Wei Ying gloomily pointed all these instances out to Uncle Four, the elder’s frown only deepened.

“Would you rather he stay here forever, clutching at his father’s robes? Only interacting with the same five people for eternity?” He retorts. 

“He’s gotten a bit better. Yuan’er doesn’t even flinch at loud noises anymore.” Uncle continued.

“He had a nasty relapse last week, Uncle.” Wei Ying stated sombrely, eyes glazed over in remembrance. .

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

As soon as Hua Cheng crossed over the winery’s threshold, he felt malicious intent. The next second, his hand reflexively caught something flying too close to his face.

Holding up the wriggling creature, Hua Cheng inspected the tiny horror, brow arched curiously. It was a carrot ….. Which somehow sprouted root-like legs and was growing the beginnings of a face. The thing had claws and a gaping mouth with rows of razor-sharp teeth. Clearly intending to make a meal out of him, of all people.

Hua Cheng showed little reaction to the strange sight, other than a minute blink.

With a nonplussed expression, Hua Cheng took in the winery’s awkward atmosphere.

There were two elderly people and a child crowding around a table, keeping a bunch of fresh vegetables huddled at the table’s centre (the greens appeared to be suffering from the same affliction as the carrot). Almost all the furniture and crockery within the hall were smashed to bits or flipped over, aside from the one pot boiling on a brazier in the middle of the dinning hall. A young woman who appeared to be midlunge and a man (a Fierce Corpse?) holding her back by firmly wrapping his arms around her waist, while the woman’s victim was crouching above a cupboard and holding onto the top for dear-life. 

If Hua Cheng ventured a guess, he’d say one of Lord Wuxian’s experiments got a little out of hand and the lady decided he should pay the price, while the poor soul holding her back was trying to keep the peace. 

And the idiot decided to find safety in a high place, like a spooked cat. He thought, lips twitching in humour.  

The idiot in question tried to act nonchalant over the bizarreness of the situation. 

“Chengzhu! What brings you here…?” 

“Noise complaints.” Hua Cheng deadpanned. Wei Ying let out a nervous laugh while jumping off the cabinet. Feet scurrying away from the fuming lady as soon as his toes touched the floor. 

The woman angrily breaks out of the other man’s grip and goes to help the others with the ‘produce’.

Hua Cheng waves around the ‘carrot’ that was still in his hand. A clear sign for Wei Ying to start talking.

“Uncle Four and I were talking about expanding food options around here. It can’t just be wine, ya know?” He sheepishly explained, awkwardly rubbing his neck.

“And so , the genius decided to revisit one of his failed experiments.” The woman -whom Hua Cheng believes to be Wen Qing- drawls. Shaking off the live-tomato that was biting into her finger. She let out a low hiss as its teeth dug deep into her flesh, her blood trickling onto the table. 

“Who the hell would want to eat these things anyway?!” Wen Qing snaps.

“Oh, I could easily see this turn into a rare delicacy within my city.” Hua Cheng quips as he tosses the carrot into the boiling pot with a small ‘plop’. Nearly everyone winced as the little horror shrieked in pain, drowning in the scalding water. Wei Ying and Hua Cheng were the only ones who didn’t appear phased. 

“No! No! Qing-jie is onto something.” Wei Ying rebuked, as if there wasn’t a pitiful creature in the middle of its death throes, forcing everyone else to cover their ears.

Wen Qing shot him a glare, finally freeing her poor finger from the tomato’s clutches. She walked over to the boiling pot, about to throw it in when Wei Ying snatched it from her.

Showing off the creature to Hua Cheng as if he were making a sales pitch, Wei Ying continued:

“You just need to cut off the limbs, scrape off the face and ta-da! Back to being like any other vegetable.” He grinned.

Hua Cheng shook his head, brow slightly furrowed.

“Your winery is going to sound like a torture room if you do that. Those things are awfully loud.” Hua Cheng advised, eye flitting back to the squirming tomato in disinterest. 

Wei Ying lightly stroked his chin with his free hand, thinking over Chengzhu’s words.

“Hmm. You’re right. It would ruin everyone’s appetite.” He mumbled. 

Tossing the tomato over his shoulder and into the pot, Wei Ying turned to the elderly man.

“Hey, Uncle! How sturdy are your kitchen walls? Do you think they can handle a dozen silencing arrays?”

“A dozen?!” The elder squawked. “Uhh.. well..”

While the adults were talking, the child shyly walked up to Wei Ying.

(He wanted to do it earlier, but A-Yuan had to wait until Baba got rid of that little monster.)

Little fists clutched at the hem of Wei Ying’s sleeve. The boy curiously peeked at the newcomer behind his Baba’s legs. The man turned his head back, gently combing his fingers through his son’s hair in quiet reassurance. 

“Little radish…? Why don’t you introduce yourself to our guest?”

A-Yuan didn’t reply to that. Choosing instead to duck his head behind Wei Ying. The elder let out a quiet sigh. Apologetically looking back at Hua Cheng.

“Please forgive him. He’s really shy around strangers.” Wei Ying murmured, too engrossed with his skittish son to notice the older man’s strange reaction.

Hua Cheng looked at the little boy’s bandaged face, eye unfocused, his features marked with a peculiar expression.

It only lasted for a moment. In a blink, Hua Cheng snapped back to attention. He crouched down till he was eye-level with the child. Softening his expression into -what he hoped was- a more approachable look. 

“Nice to meet you little lord. Or should I call you Little Wei? I didn’t catch your name.”

Hua Cheng noticed the little guy’s eye widening at being called a ‘Wei’ before the boy gave him a tentative smile.

“....you can call me A-Yuan o-or Yuan’er.” He finishes with a clumsy bow. Hua Cheng felt his lips quirk upwards at the endearing sight and was about to introduce himself when he felt E-Ming’s eye snap open. The sword started pulling itself out of the sheath, wanting a closer look at the boy and his father.

The scimitar was always too curious for its own good.

A-Yuan’s eye went wide, promptly bursting into tears. Shaking non-stop, wildly clutching at Wei Ying’s robes, screeching at the scimitar.

 “ Go away! Don’t come closer! ”.

Hua Cheng promptly smacks the sword in its eye. Backing away from the panicking child, while Lord Wuxian tried to calm down his distressed son.

“Make it go away, Baba! Make it stop!” A-Yuan hiccuped, hiding his face in his father’s neck. Wei Ying shushes him, gently patting the child’s back, urging him to calm down. 

Hua Cheng had a white-knuckle grip on the hilt. He could feel E-Ming shaking in its sheath, tearing up when it felt like it did something wrong. 

“I’m really sorry! He only acts like that around anything sharp.” Wei Ying hurriedly said, rocking the still-crying child back-and-forth. 

“You needn’t apologise. I should’ve disciplined my spiritual weapon properly.” Hua Cheng stated, throwing a glare at the tearful scimitar. 

(Needless to say, as soon as Chengzhu left, Wen Qing gave him a good thrashing over ‘endangering everyone with another one of his brainless experiments’, but Wei Ying would rather not remember that if he can help it.)

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

Uncle Four sighs at the memory and decides to leave the young man with some parting advice. “Right now, Yuan’er seems to firmly believe that he should be sheltered, not understanding that he’s trapping himself. The child’s crouching in the back of a dark cave, too scared to come out of the only place that he knows. If A-Yuan continues to live like that, what will become of him in five, ten, twenty years? Try and help him toe the line where there’s some sun. The results might surprise you.” 

“....”

A few hours later, Uncle Four hears the heavy creaking of a man’s footsteps followed by the nervous pitter-patter of a child’s feet leave through the building’s back door. The old man lets out a relieved sigh. 

Attaboy. He thought.

A breath of fresh air will do both of them some good.

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

Wei Ying walks around the -oddly enough less crowded- streets of Ghost City while holding A-Yuan at his hip. They initially began their stroll walking side-by-side, but the poor lad couldn’t keep up with his Baba’s long strides, so Wei Ying opted to carry him. The little one was now keeping his face tucked against the elder’s collarbone. Without looking down, Wei Ying could sense his son curiously peeking around the few stands that were still open as he trekked his way to Ghost Market 

Wei Ying catches A-Yuan eyeing a stand where a ghost with a camel’s long neck and face was stirring a huge pot of stew. 

“Feelin’ hungry…?” Wei Ying murmured against his son’s cheek, tickling the skin with his breath, which inturn made the lad let out a small giggle. 

He got a nod, so the young Calamity makes his way to the stand, when he sees the camel-ghost rear its head back, hack up a huge glob of phlegm and spit it right into the pot. 

The father-son duo watched in horror as the camel-ghost stirred the pot a few more times before dipping a ladle into the snot-mixed stew, sampling it. Its ears twitching in approval as it let out a satisfied ‘hmm’. 

“Ewwww…” A-Yuan whimpered. Wei Wuxian silently agrees, just as disgusted. 

The camel-ghost’s ears twitched.

“Who said that, huh?! Why don’t you try to make one then?!” It yelled, twisting its long neck, looking around for the perpetrator. 

Not wanting to make eye-contact, both Wei Wuxian and A-Yuan snapped their heads away from the camel’s direction and quickly stepped back into the street, melting into the small crowd before they got caught.

They make their way to another stand, where they find a lizard-demon chopping up its own tail into clean slices before giving them to customers, its stub rapidly growing back into a tail, then repeating the morbid process all over again for the next patron. A ghost selling noodles with the broth that he was bathing in. A spider-demon making ‘dragon’s beard candy’ with its own webs, using the sticky strands to catch flies and other insects before giving it to ghost-kids. 

Finally, Wei Wuxian finds a ‘normal’ looking tanghulu stand, nearly sprinting his way there with a green-faced A-Yuan.

“Please tell me you sell human treats here.” The lady looked human, if you disregard the yellow irises with slitted pupils and green scales surrounding her eyes, which crinkled in offence at his comment. 

“Of course we sell human food here. Whaddya take us for?!” She scoffed. Wei Ying was about to exhale in relief when he took a closer look at what was displayed. 

Sure. There were some normal tanghulu, like candied hawthorne, strawberries and whatnot, but there were also candied body parts. Severed fingers stabbed through the stick, glistening with hardened sugar, reddish-purple tongues along with specifically shaped pieces of shrivelled flesh that Wei Ying was 100% certain were not sausages. 

He and A-Yuan had a brief staring contest with an eyeball-tanghulu before looking back at the proud seller, puffing her chest. 

“I just remembered that my son hasn’t had lunch yet. I shouldn’t spoil his appetite with sweets. Thank you for letting us have a look, madame.” He deadpanned, expression blank. 

“Huh?!” The snake-lady snapped, but Wei Ying had already turned his heel, ready to hightail out of the food section.

“You okay?” He whispered under his breath. Cursing himself a thousand-fold. Wei Wuxian was going to give Uncle Four a tongue-lashing when he comes back. Pleasant stroll, my foot!  

A-Yuan wrinkled his nose, face pale. 

“Don’ think I’ll be eating for a while….” The poor lad mumbled. 

Wei Ying hid a grimace. Silently vowing that he will never come back to these stalls with A-Yuan in tow again. Seeing that his son needed a distraction, Wei Ying stops at a line of stalls where some ghosts were selling toys. Cradling the little lad who was now hiding his face in his Baba’s neck.

Wei Wuxian spied one stall owner selling what looked to be rattle-drums.

He was about to go and ask for the price when a foreboding thought struck him. 

What if the toys also had some type of hidden horror….?

Was the leather made out of human-skin? Were the rattles carved from a serial-killer’s bones? Did it make some kind of high-pitched shriek with every shake? or…. or…

Deciding that it would be safer to make a strategic retreat back to the winery, Wei Wuxian made to turn away.

“Ah! Gongzi! Wait!”

“Huh?” Turning back, Wei Ying saw the stall owner walk up to him and all but shoved a rattle-drum into his free hand.

“Enjoy!” The other ghost exclaimed, patting Wei Ying on the shoulder before scurrying off. Staring at the empty spot where the stall owner just was, he blinked owlishly.

What just happened..?

Noticing that A-Yuan had lifted his face to peek around again, Wei Ying quietly offered him the toy which he gladly took.

Shaking his head at the weirdness, Wei Ying made to leave the lane once again… and was accosted by another ghost giving freebies. 

This bizarre song and dance continued until Wei Ying had an armful of cargo, including a clay whistle, a kite in the shape of a phoenix, a bamboo dragonfly, a couple of stuffed animals, a paper windmill, a few puzzle boxes, a jar of marbles, a bow and some arrows fit for a child, a diabolo and a wide-eyed A-Yuan gaping in disbelief at all the new toys. 

Couldn’t they have at least offered to carry some of this stuff for me?! 

Wei Ying couldn’t even see! The new toys had piled all the way up to his face, practically blocking his vision.

From the corner of his eye, Wei Ying could make out a woman with a feline-like face and a cat’s tail carrying a hand-carved box  - another stall owner- eagerly approaching him. Clearly intending to give him the beautifully ornate box meant for accessories.

Wei Ying reeled back. She must be joking! He already has too much junk as is!

The mountain of toys wobbled before eventually collapsing. Wei Ying felt some of the toys spilling out of his arms-

And straight into another's.

“Need some help?” Hua Cheng muttered while sharing the load, practically shoulder-to-shoulder with Wei Ying, standing a little too close for comfort. 

“This was your doing, wasn’t it?!” Wei Ying hissed directly into Hua Cheng’s ear, hoping A-Yuan wouldn’t hear.

Hua Cheng merely gave him an ‘innocent’ smile and shrug, which to Wei Ying, was an admission of guilt.

The younger male was about to snap at the Crimson Bastard, when he felt his son pull at the collar of his robe.

“...thank you..” The boy mumbled in Hua Cheng's general direction, clutching at one of the stuffed toys before tucking his head back into his father’s neck. Hua Cheng offered the lad a sincere smile this time (one of the few that Wei Ying has seen so far) before beckoning the new Calamity to follow him.

“Where are we going?” Wei Ying asked, a tad cautious.

“A place where you can have a proper meal.” Hua Cheng flippantly said.

Wei Ying felt his left eye twitch. It took every single ounce of self-restraint not to cuss out Crimson Rain right in front of his very very young son.

So you were watching us this whole time?!

Chapter End.

Author's Notes:

Yeaaaah. A-Yuan has some unresolved trauma with swords and knives. You can already guess why.

*Tulipa hybrida: Better known as pink tulips. These flowers symbolize forgiveness, care, and affection. If the apology stemmed from unintentional actions, then pink tulips can help convey one's genuine concern for the recipient's feelings. I think this was the perfect flower to showcase HC's roundabout apology to A-Yuan. To him, 'sorry' wasn't gonna cut it and we all know how HC can't resist making grand gestures. Notice how HC took extra care to give A-Yuan a bow and some arrows, not a toy sword? Already on his way to becoming a good step-dad~

Note 1: Dragon's Beard Candy is a Chinese confectionary that's the equivalent to cotton-candy. Albeit with a lower sugar content and a shorter shelf-life.

Note 2: A diabolo is basically the Chinese version of a yo-yo.

And yes. The 'living vegetables' were a reference to Mo Dao Zushi Q! Hope you guys enjoyed the little A-Yuan and HC interactions. We'll have more of them later on ;)

Thanks for reading! Don't be afraid to let me know your thoughts on this chapter!

We're finally getting hints on the important plot beats of this fic. I'll do my best to not have the wait for the next chapter be as long as the last one. Till then, enjoy the omakes!

Omake:

WWX: *sneaking glances at HC while they're walking through Ghost Market, clearly wanting to ask something*

HC: What is it?

WWX: *blurts out* So, I know that there’s another Calamity who loves eating human-flesh. Do all Ghost Kings share the same tastes?

HC: *gives WWX a thousand-yard stare* Wow. I’m actually offended this time.

WWX: S-sorry! Didn’t mean to call you a canni-

HC: How could you possibly compare me to that vomit-wearing, goblin-faced, pest?

WWX:-bal......

Be sure to drop a comment and/or like!

“ A lovely song. May this one know its name? ”

“It is without a title-” Wei Ying wanted to say more as he turned towards the vexing man, but his tongue twisted into a knot before he could utter another word.

I’ll consider showing you my true face the next time we meet.

Weren’t they joking?

He was serious?

The youthful skin Crimson Rain wore didn’t hold a candle to how he looked now. Bedecked head-to-toe in blood red robes with numerous ebony belts tied around a slender waist. The elder wore different kinds of jewellery; gauntlets, rings, earrings, a necklace decorated with chimes. All this finery, a pure silver and with their own intricate designs. The necklace in particular, had delicate overlapping chains with crystals the size of a child’s finger, studded at irregular intervals with little silver butterflies fluttering within them. Somehow, when put together with the whole ensemble, it came off as ethereal instead of ostentatious. The handsome face, always with its signature smirk, was both mature and wild. One eye hiding behind a leather eyepatch, while the other currently staring at him, a deep red iris with a slit pupil, surrounded by black sclera. Its focused gaze pierced through Wei Wuxian’s being. Long black tresses, free from their original ponytail, with the exception of one lock braided with a red ribbon and a rare coral bead hanging at the tip. The hair perfectly framing those devilish features.

There was a single fang peeking out from those smirking lips and yet, Wei Ying didn’t feel intimidated in the slightest.

What a beautiful man. What a powerful presence. He thought, distantly.

“-a proper name?”

“Huh?!” Wei Ying snapped back into attention.

Gods, did he actually zone out?!

He got a baritone chuckle in return. Wei Ying fought the blush trying to crawl its way up his neck.

“I said …” The elder repeated, barely holding back the urge to tease “…it clearly took so much effort to compose this type of song. Why not give it a proper name?”

His manner reminded Wei Ying of a cat watching a toy dangling in front of it with minor interest. Contemplating if he should take a swipe at it or not.

Wei Ying’s eyes instantly darted to the right, attracted to a particular tree branch.

It had nothing to do with the elder ghost standing just a few feet away from him.

Wei Wuxian does not get nervous , dammit!

“I am not the original composer. So, it wouldn’t be right for me to name it.” He mentally patted himself on the back for keeping his voice even.

Crimson Rain merely hummed in reply. A clear tinge of disappointment within it.

“What about your own compositions, then?”

Wonderful . Now, he was back to teasing. Wei Ying really wasn’t in the mood for that right now.

He made direct eye-contact and shot back:

“If I didn’t know any better, Chengzhu, I’d say you want me to play a couple of songs for you. Are you going to ask me to compose something, as well?”

That didn’t deter him in the slightest. Instead, his smirk widened.

“A very tempting offer. How could this one refuse? Name your price.”

Bastard.

“Chengzhu is oh-so-generous. I’ll gladly call the new song “Ghost Lord’s Glib Tongue.” Wei Ying retorted snappishly. The elder let out a playful scoff.

“Why ‘glib’? Have I not been sincere with you?”

“Crimson Rain is the sincerest man I’ve ever met. A true man amongst men.” He could fill an entire lake with how much sarcasm was dripping out of his voice.

There was a slight tremble in Hua Cheng’s lips as he held back the laughter that wanted to spill out.

Not wanting to be caught staring, Wei Ying directed his gaze elsewhere. Traces of slight annoyance found within his frown.

He heard the ground crunch, followed by that clink-clinking sound. The man’s next words sounded much closer than before.

“Careful, Lord Wuxian. With that face you’re making, I’d think that you dislike talking to me.”

Before Wei Ying could come up with another retort, he felt something soft and smooth brush against his tender cheek.

He instinctively flinched away; gaze trained intensely at what was in Chengzhu’s hand.

It was a handkerchief. Made of black silk and embroidered with red flowers in the corner.

….and smudged with a reddish-brown substance.

Fuck.

The tears. The blood .

His cheeks may have healed now, but the blood stains and tear-tracks streaking through were still there.

There was not a hint of mockery or pity in Chengzhu’s expression. Smirk gone and expression unreadable as he turned over his hand, still holding the piece of silk. Palm facing up in offering.

Quick as a whip, Wei Ying snatched the cloth and began furiously wiping away at the mess on his face. Too embarrassed to even say ‘thank you’.

He felt Crimson Rain take a few steps away from him. Giving Wei Wuxian back his personal space. Still cleaning, Wei Ying saw from the corner of his eye that Chengzhu had his hands folded behind his back, head respectfully turned away. A bit late to make such a gesture, but, whenever Wei Ying thought back on it, he couldn't help but feel appreciation.

“….why are you here?” Wei Ying asked, voice strangled. He didn’t care that it sounded rude. If the Ghost King witnessed his breakdown, then he’d already lost all manner of dignity.

Doesn’t a City Lord have a million tasks to do?

Was Crimson Rain just that bored?

Hua Cheng let out an amused huff, as if Wei Wuxian had just told him a joke!

“Am I not allowed to greet the newcomer who stumbled into my property?” He jibbed airily. 

Wei Ying blinked owlishly at him. Feeling that his face was mostly clean now, he put the handkerchief away and fully faced the man once more.

“Your property…?”

Crimson Rain lifted one hand and made a waving motion, as if he were lazily swatting away a fly.

The night fog suddenly stilled and gradually lifted. A few steps away from him, Wei Wuxian could see a lake, previously concealed by the dense vapours. There were slumbering flowers decorating its shores, a cloud of silver butterflies dancing and fluttering atop the blue waters in mesmerising patterns, the crescent moon and bright stars now reflected in the crystal blue pools and from a distance…. a large red and black mansion. Imposing, as its towers reached towards the night sky, every inch of its architecture and décor a testament of sheer wealth. A befitting home to Ghost City’s lord.

One by one, the flowers surrounding the lake opened up their petals, emitting soft light on their own. Some red, some blue, pink, purple… Those delicate blooms gleaming, swaying in the nonexistent breeze, turning the whole forest into a festival of light meant only for a few. The night shadows receded and the forest was bathed in a kaleidoscope of glowing flora.

Embarrassment gave way to inquisitiveness; Wei Ying stooped down to one of the buds and reached out with the hand not clutching his dizi. His fingers cautiously prodding at the secreting fluid coming out of those velvety petals.

He felt the skin on those fingers go numb.

Poison? Paralysing agent? An antiseptic?  He wondered, mind whirling.

Amazingly, as if it had a mind of its own, the flower head twisted away from Wei Wuxian’s touch.

Wen Qing would love to test these out. He himself felt the urge to experiment. To take and break it apart. To look at it from all angles, all possibilities until he was satisfied with the results.

Wei Ying could not recall reading about these exact plants in his studies or seeing their illustrations during his private researches on medicinal herbs.

Did Crimson Rain make these flowers himself?

“I call them Night Blossoms. You’ll only find them here, I’m afraid.” He heard Hua Cheng say somewhere above him.

Well, that answered his question.

He was probably entertaining himself with Wei Ying’s gawking. Not that he minded. Wei Ying was more focused on this new finding.

“Incredible….” He breathed out. It must have taken a great amount of time to cultivate these blooms.

He heard Chengzhu settle down next to him. Briefly looking at the elder, Wei Ying saw that he had his head turned towards the lake. Not even sparing the flowers a passing glance.

“They’re pretty.” Hua Cheng acknowledged. “But they lose their initial appeal after some time.”

He looked back at Wei Wuxian, eye twinkling.

“If you ask me, I find the recent addition much more fascinating.”

Wei Ying felt his tense body relax some as he looked back at him and couldn’t stop the slight quirk at the corners of his mouth.

Ridiculous man. Always feels the need to bring it back to flirting, huh?

Wei Ying decided to play along.

“Because it’s something new?” He teased.

“Because it’s different.” Hua Cheng gently corrected.

He couldn’t stop the half-scoff half-laugh from such an answer. Dark mood now gone; Wei Ying merely shook his head at the other man’s absurdity. He continued inspecting the bud and asked:

“Do they have any medicinal properties or are they just there for aesthetics?”

“Do you take me for a vain person?”

Wei Ying pursed his lips, eyeing the elder’s decorous attire. Honestly, the man was practically dripping so much money that he could make the Jins look like a clan of paupers.

“…. don’t answer that.” Hua Cheng huffed, realising he wasn't helping his case.

Wei Ying let out a small chuckle. Curiosity satisfied for now, he paused in his inspection. Opting to put Chenqing aside and sit back to enjoy the view.

Both watched as the cloud of butterflies slowly broke apart. Some went to nest in the glowing flowers, some flew off back at the mansion across the lake, the rest continued lazily fluttering above the crystal pool.

Wei Ying felt his mind ease as he silently absorbed the serene atmosphere surrounding him.

Noticing that the man next to him was uncharacteristically quiet, Wei Ying peeked at him through his peripheral vision.

Chengzhu, like himself, was sitting in a lotus-position. One of his arms was folded on his crossed legs, the other propped atop it, allowing him to rest his chin on his hand. Face relaxed and eye closed. The fairy lights illuminating that handsome visage. Looking to all the world as if the scenery relaxed him to the point of sleep.

And why wouldn’t it? This was Crimson Rain’s home.

He was just a guest (an intruder) here.

Realising that he was invading the man’s peace, Wei Ying contemplated a smooth way to make his exit.

Hua Cheng cracked his eye open, immediately making eye-contact with the younger ghost. Caught staring, Wei Ying flustered and awkwardly gaped as the elder let out a snicker.

“It’s been a few days since our last conversation. How has Ghost City treated you?”

Wei Ying couldn’t help but snort.

“As if you don’t know.”

“Hmm?”

“Don’t play dumb!” Wei Ying exclaimed, incensed and charmed all at once. “I’ve been feeling the same set of eyes on me every time I step out of that inn. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that’s one of your men.”

“Which one? Care to describe them to me?” Chengzhu asked light-heartedly.

“A servant wearing the ugliest demon mask I’ve ever seen. If he wants to keep spying on me, tell him to change it. It’s too noticeable.”

“I’ll be sure to pass along your advice to Yin Yu.” Hua Cheng laughed.

Wei Ying sighed in fake exasperation.

“Although….” The elder continued “He only monitored you a few times, since you hardly ever set foot on the streets.” Hua Cheng lazily cast his gaze to the intimidating mansion from afar, expression bored.

“How odd.” He commented. “You made such a fuss back at the den that I took you for a social butterfly. Turns out, you’re more of a skittish kitten, refusing to come out of its box.”

It felt like he had been doused with a bucket of cold water. The temperature dropped as Wei Ying tensed. Expression thunderous, back bamboo-straight, fingers clutching Chenqing in a white-knuckle grip.

How dare he….?

“Ah. Now you resemble a mother bear ready to defend its cubs. My mistake.” Hua Cheng mocked, finding it laughable that his tiny provocation caused such a strong reaction. His body remained relaxed with hardly a change in his posture, not even looking at Wei Ying still.

“What I do in private, is none of your business.” Wei Ying gritted, infuriated at the audacity .

“I’m aware.”

“Then why -”

“Because someone has to point out that you’re still acting like a mortal.”

“What….?”

“Do you know why ghosts can’t let go of the urge to eat, drink and sleep? Even when they no longer need to?” Hua Cheng asked rhetorically. “Because they enjoy it, so it’s not worth letting go. You know what’s worth letting go? Regrets. Pain. Grudges. They’ve lived their whole lives trying to reach or do something, but most would reach their end before they can. Eventually, it all comes down to the same realisation: It doesn’t matter anymore. I’m dead anyway. I don’t have to think about it. Now, I can just move on and do whatever I want.”

“And what happens to the ghosts who don’t want to let go?” Wei Ying snapped back.

Hua Cheng’s eye narrowed. Lips pursed in displeasure.

“They fade.” He stated. “Those who can’t detach from the past or mull over ‘what could have’ just…disappear. No reincarnation. No afterlife. Simply pure oblivion.”

The sense of finality to that was enough to send shivers down Wei Ying’s spine. Goosebumps prickled all over his skin, Wei Ying wrinkled his robes while clutching his knees in a bruising grip.

He remained silent for a few moments, tried to swallow around the lump in his throat before bitterly admitting:

“Moving on…. if only it were that easy.” Wei Ying scoffed, as if he wasn’t trying to do that already. Fingers sought for grass blades, he started plucking them in irritation. Rapidly blinking away the fog building up in his vision.

“It’s not.” Hua Cheng agreed. “Mortals in your place would be stuck in the past and drive themselves to madness as they obsess over decisions long made. Assuming that they haven’t already.”

“Then why the lecture, oh wise Ghost King?”

Hua Cheng turned his head back to Wei Ying. There was an intense light in that ruby eye that it took everything in Wei Ying’s power not to turn his head away.

“Because you have something that most people don’t.”

“Which is?” He asked, feeling his mouth turn dry.

“Time.” The elder man’s lips turned upwards slightly. “Don’t be in such a rush to ‘get better’. You have an eternity to do that now. Stop looking back, because you’re not going that way. And….” He leaned forward, eerie light fading, expression softening as some of his original playful attitude returned. “ Do whatever you want . You won’t be judged here. Besides, this city is very good at making people forget about their troubles.”

Wei Ying blinked. Brushing the grass stains off his clothes, Hua Cheng stood up and got ready to leave.

“Whenever you’re ready, stop by the den. You certainly know how to liven up the place.” He stated, jestingly.

Wei Ying licked his dry lips and asked, voice low:

“And if I’m not ready…?”

“Then feel free to come here for some peace and quiet. No one will stop you.” He invited as he finished adjusting his attire. Hua Cheng turned his back to Wei Ying.

Not wanting it to end on a heavy note, the younger ghost offered his parting shot:

“Do you always invite people to your house after you insult them?”

Hua Cheng merely laughed as he looked over his shoulder. Catching one last glimpse of the youngest Calamity:

“Have a good night, Lord Wuxian.”

“…you too, Chengzhu.”

Invite or no invite, Wei Ying still felt like he overstayed his welcome, so he waited until that odd clink-clinking sound faded before he stood up to leave as well.

Only when he picked up Chenqing, he felt an added weight on one end of the instrument.

Wei Ying snapped his head down and noticed that there was something tied to the red string.

It was a jade token.

The one he painstakingly carved when he first entered the Mounds.

How…?

He tried to look around, but predictably, Crimson Rain was long gone. Even the butterflies had disappeared.

Once again, Wei Ying was left shaking his head in disbelief.

Smarmy bastard. Just had to get the last laugh.

His face felt oddly tight and sore. Wei Ying reached out a hand to check and found that he was smiling. Much more widely than he was used to these days.

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

This light feeling lasted his entire journey back to the inn.

When the building was in sight, Wei Ying steeled himself and took a deep breath as he set foot across the threshold, slowly going up the stairs, back to the rented room he and A-Yuan were sharing. With every step he ascended, Wei Ying felt that particular stone in his chest grow heavier and heavier. He made sure to only put his weight on the stairs that weren’t creaking, to keep himself light on his feet at all times and to have his ears on high alert.

Wei Ying would never forgive himself if he gave his sleeping son another scare because of his own carelessness.

And yet, when he reached the door, Wei Ying heard a series of continuous clanking sounds from the room. As if a bunch of crockery was being moved around.

He froze for a moment, before slowly opening the door. Not wanting to startle the other occupant. 

“What are you doing up, baobei? Did Xian-ge wake you?”

Lo and behold. The child wasn’t sleeping anymore, but instead carefully arranging an assortment of food which, Wei Ying quickly noted, was compiled of his favourite spicy dishes.

No wine. Good. Qing-jie would murder me if she found out that A-Yuan was anywhere near that. 

Said child nearly dropped one of the side dishes before quickly setting it down and tackling Wei Ying’s legs. Arms spasming around the limbs as he shook like a leaf in the wind.  

“A-Yuan…?”

His only response was a tightening hold and the little head firmly pressing itself against his knees.

Wei Ying exhaled silently through his nose and gently settled a hand on top of the black tresses. He felt the legs of his robes slowly grow damp.

“Hey….. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to leave like that. Xian-ge was just taking a walk-”

His piss-poor excuse got cut off by a muffled voice:

“Baba was crying.”

“.....”

“Baba was crying ….. an-and A-Yuan couldn’t do anything. Baba always tries to make A-Yuan feel better, but can it be A-Yuan’s turn….?”

The boy carefully lifted his head to look up at his father. Through the tears, his one functioning eye was focused intently on the man’s reaction. Afraid that Wei Ying would say no. 

Wei Ying felt a knot tightening in his throat. He forced himself to swallow.

“ Oh, A-Yuan….. ” He shakily cupped his son’s face, stroking one of his cheeks. Careful not to touch the bandages on the other side. 

“Baba?! Baba! Please don’t cry again! A-Yuan’s sorry!”

“Shhh!” Wei Ying quickly picked him up and held A-Yuan under his chin. A part of him still marvelling at the movement, at the sign of life . Even if unconventional.  

“Baba just got an ouchie on the way here. It’ll get better soon.” He murmured soothingly. He felt his little one gradually untense and relax in his hold.

“Will Baba get better, too?”

“....I will.”

He thought of that fierce gaze and unprompted advice given with a sardonic smile. 

Eventually. I just need time. A lot of time.

After a few moments, Wei Ying carefully pulled A-Yuan away from his chest and gave him his best smile. The type that would immediately have someone smile back in reflex.

A-Yuan returned it hesitantly. Wei Ying counted that as a victory.

“Now…” He playfully poked the boy’s nose. “Who helped you with the cooking at this late hour?”

“The innkeeper…. He reaaaaally wanted to help.” 

Probably because he was terrified of saying ‘no’ to Black Flute’s son.

Wei Ying nodded with his most serious face, lips pursed and brows furrowed exaggeratedly, making A-Yuan let out a small giggle. He briefly looked at the late-dinner (early breakfast?) set out before them. It looked more like a feast, than anything.

“There’s a lot of it here… What do you say about inviting granny and Auntie Qing? It’ll be our own little party. ” He grinned.

“What about Uncle Ning?”

“ Oh, fiiiiine !” Wei Ying huffed. “Uncle Ning is invited, too. Even if he doesn’t know how to appreciate good food.”

He wagged a finger at his son.

“But you have to promise that you’ll go to bed the second you feel sleepy. Understand, little mister?”

“Promise!” A-Yuan crowed. 

Chapter End.

Author's Notes:

Fun fact, Ipomoea quamoclit or cypress vine flower, aside from being a flower that symbolizes grief and unrequited love, it's also the perfect flower for gift-giving. Be it through platonic affection or for romantic occasions, such as wedding anniversaries. I chose this flower for these two chapters, because I think it perfectly represents WWX's past (Wangxian) and his potential future (Huaxian).

Omake:

WWX: *starts shedding tears. Thinking back on all the good times that he had with a certain guqin-player. HC stumbles upon WWX playing his whole Fray playlist*

HC: Hey, cutie. Need some company?

WWX: *sees HC in all his ravishing, demonic beauty and loses his capacity to think for a few seconds*

WWX: H-hot…

HC: What?

WWX: NOTHING! I didn’t say anything!

Be sure to drop a like/comment, if ya liked it.

Shouts of bets being made. Various drinks burning a path down men’s throats as they attempt to be the first one to reach the end of their jugs. Yells egging on the game’s participants. Then the thump of a body hitting the ground and onlookers jeering at the man now passed out on the floor. Followed by chairs scraping against the ground as those who lost their wagers storm off in a huff.

Slouching on a table in his personal corner, Hua Cheng watched with hooded eyes at the typical outcome of yet another drinking game. His thumb absentmindedly stroked the precious silk bound to his wrist as he looked away and let out a bored sigh.

He distantly heard the clinking sound of a beaded curtain being moved away and a new person setting foot in the den. In a single breath, every voice hushed.

Hua Cheng straightened his back and twisted his head for a better angle, allowing his functioning eye to catch sight of the newcomer. Even E’ming cracked its eye open to peek at the guest now approaching the group.

Lord Wuxian strode into the Gambler's Den with the confidence of a man without a care in the world. Everything from the way he held himself to his gait was in complete contrast to how he conducted himself a few nights ago. One of his arms was folded behind his straightened back, while the other was lazily swinging back and forth as he made his way to the now frozen crowd. He wore a small, inquisitive smile as curious eyes scanned his surroundings. Silver orbs took in the enormous pile of coins, gems and other finery stacked next to their new owner before finally settling on the silent elderly-looking ghost who just won his second drinking game for the night.

“Wait. I missed it?” The younger ghost sighed forlornly before seating himself opposite to the old man. Wei Wuxian turned to one of the servers. A young man who bore the mask of a grinning white cat.

“How many games has Old Man Zhou won now?”

“Two, milord.”

“Two!” The young ghost clicked his tongue disapprovingly. He turned back to the old man. “Hey, gramps. Do you think I can have a go? Or are you gonna turn in for the night?”

The elderly ghost dubbed ‘Old Man Zhou’ appeared to be scared out of his wits. Who wouldn’t be when they have a Calamity’s undivided attention? What’s worse, this was the same man who threw a drink at Black Flute a few nights ago!

“…my lord?” Zhou croaked out.

“Yes? Are you deaf? I just asked if you want to have a friendly drinking game with me!”

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

The more Hua Cheng learned about Wei Wuxian, the more fascinated he was of the new Calamity.

It had all started with a few whispers here and there.

There’s apparently a cultivator who can control us ghosts with just a few notes from his flute.

I heard that he was some kind of child prodigy before he went down the demonic path.

Did you hear what he did to the Wen who threw him into the Burial Mounds? Now, there’s someone you never wanna meet….

The newly deceased trickling into his city during and after the cultivators’ war only seemed to turn the spark of rumors into a raging inferno.

Hua Cheng finally gave in to his curiosity and did his own research.

What he found at least justified the ‘genius’ side of Wei Wuxian.

A talisman, adjusted with just a few strokes of blood, capable of attracting malicious spirits instead of repelling them.

A compass, albeit not a very accurate one, used to detect resentful energy.

An instrument capable of harnessing an absurd amount of power into bending lesser creatures to do their master’s bidding.

And a living cultivator who somehow mastered demonic qi without it outright killing him.

All done just to turn the tide of war into his allies’ favor.

Astounding.

He could tell that were Wei Wuxian allowed to grow into his own powers, he could reach newer heights. Become something truly fierce.

What can he say? He was intrigued.

Hua Cheng chose not to act on it right away, though.

Why meddle with a flower’s growth when it was already turning into a vision?

During one of his night raids, he heard about the Jin Heir’s murder, the massacre at Nightless City and the Siege that followed.

And promptly cursed himself for not stepping in sooner.

For all of Wei Wuxian’s innovations and great intellect, the talentless would still find ways to bring him down out of petty jealousy and fear. The Yiling Lazou losing control was just the perfect excuse that they needed to take him out.

Hua Cheng felt the familiar taste of bile in the back of his throat. Lips forming into a sneer.

The greedy cowards were just waiting for the perfect moment to bleed him dry and loot all of his hard work. Now the world just lost a bright mind. What a waste.

He was really looking forward to having someone else trade theories with. So, he wondered:

Would Wei Wuxian’s spirit be willing to linger after the destruction of his mortal shell?

He got his answer during a meeting with Black Water.

It started as a light brush crawling up his spine. Phantom fingers stroking at his skin, goosebumps erupting from white flesh. It eventually grew in intensity and spread all the way down into his bones with a quivering ferocity. His whole being thrummed with a burst of foreign energy that signaled the birth of a new ghost.

An abnormally powerful, calamitous, newborn.

Which could only mean one thing.

He Xuan gasped. Eyes widening in shock.

“Another one?

Hua Cheng felt his lips curl into a satisfied smirk. Black eye giving away his clear delight at this turn of events.

“It looks to me that Qi Rong will have a harder time rising to Supreme rank.” He commented offhandedly. Black Water shot him a confused look. Slightly unnerved by his friend’s sudden good mood. Hua Cheng chose to ignore him and went out.

After all, he needed to track down and offer sanctuary to the new Calamity.

When Hua Cheng finally had his long-awaited meeting with the enigmatic cultivator, he didn’t know what to think once the younger ghost took off his mask.

While the rumors did briefly mention Lord Wuxian’s good looks, it was always accompanied with a regretful tone over witnessing a promising young man falling down a dark path, followed by a listing of all the terrible things the Calamity had done.

Despite not being of noble descent, Wei Wuxian had a striking face that bordered on regal. One notable feature that caught Hua Cheng’s attention was his mouth, which had laugh lines on both sides of his nose and at the corner of his lips, indicative of a man who always had a reason to smile. The other were his eyes, which was unlike any other shade of grey he’s seen on a human face before. They weren’t a dark stormy grey nor did they resemble the color of ash or dust. Wei Wuxian’s eyes looked like pools of liquid silver that were piercing into Hua Cheng’s darker orbs. His right hand twitched as he wondered what paints did he have to mix in order to get that exact shade of grey.

He certainly is beautiful, but….

Hua Cheng took note of the other’s slumped figure and slightly curled up shoulders, as well as Wei Wuxian's swollen and bloodshot eyes, which either hinted that he was crying prior to their meeting or he had trouble sleeping. The heavy bags beneath those tired orbs hint at the latter rather than the former. It was clear to him that protecting the Wens was the only thing that kept Wei Wuxian going. Otherwise, he would’ve given up already.

Trying not to let his displeasure over this observation show, Hua Cheng smoothly broke out of his reverie by starting off their discussion with a joke at the younger’s expense -just to see what he would do- and was pleasantly surprised when Lord Wuxian immediately responded with a quip of his own.

This little fox still has some bite left in him.

Unfortunately, whatever ounce of self-confidence Wei Wuxian had left seemingly evaporated the moment Hua Cheng mentioned them working together. His gut twisted at the visible look of fear and self-disgust in those silver orbs.

He was watching a bright star dim before his very eyes and was overcome with a feeling of wrongness over the situation.

His former friends did a damned good job at tearing him down.

His train of thought was completely derailed when Lord Wuxian proposed (oh, wasn’t that ironic?) an alternative to being Hua Cheng’s inventing partner.

Oh. I see. He’s an idiot, too.

Hua Cheng couldn’t recall the last time he’s laughed this hard.

Still, the younger ghost’s shaken sense of self-worth irked him, so Hua Cheng vowed then and there that he was going to help Wei Wuxian regain his old spark. No matter how long it took.

An idea formed in his mind. Something that will start off small, but will definitely help lighten Lord Wuxian’s burden in the future should it come to fruition. He made his move once the purpose of their meeting came to a close.

“You’ve hardly touched your wine, Lord Wuxian. Is it not to your liking?”

The younger man startled briefly before answering:

“It’s decent. A little weak for my taste.”

“Hmm.” Hua Cheng looked over Wei Wuxian’s shoulder and directed his next question at the third person who’d been quietly standing behind the counter this entire time. “Innkeeper, from where did you get such insufficient wine?”

“From Old Man Zhou, milord.”

“He’s still working?” He asked scoffingly.

“Every once in a while, milord. Whenever he doesn’t feel like drinking himself under a table.”

“I should’ve shut down that good-for-nothing’s winery a long time ago.” Hua Cheng remarked before turning back to Lord Wuxian.

“Do you perchance know any experienced winemakers?” Lord Wuxian tilted his head at the inquiry. A curious smile playing on his lips.

“I do. Why?”

“Well, that’s good news.” He hummed and then let out a fake sigh “Zhou is a rather prideful old man who prefers to slack off and get into drinking games instead of doing his actual job. I’ve been meaning to get rid of him, but he’s rather stubborn and won’t let go of his business for less than a hefty sum.”

He fixed Wei Wuxian with look. Almost challenging.

“How would you go about getting rid of him?”

“He sounds rather troublesome.” Wei Wuxian quipped. Just what is he playing at?  Smile turning mischievous, he continued “I would like to help you, but what’s in it for me?”

“You don’t have to do anything in return.” Hua Cheng replied in faux innocence “I am merely suggesting that should you or any member of your group wish to find work here in Ghost City, you’re all free to do so.”

Wei Wuxian let out a thoughtful hum before finally making his decision:

“Alright. Uncle will be happy at the prospect either way. I’ll see what I can do.”

“Try not to cause too much of a commotion.”

That earned him a laugh.

“I’ll try, but only because Chengzhu asked nicely.”

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

Now, Old Man Zhou gaped at the newborn Calamity sitting in front of him. Mouth opening and closing like a fish. He quickly snapped out of his stupor and bowed apologetically to the younger ghost.

“Milord…. This one begs your fogivene-”  Wei Wuxian waved him off.

“Aiyah! Don’t worry about that! Why not let bygones be bygones, huh?” He plastered on a friendly smile and leaned forward in his seat.

“I must confess, while I’ve had my fair share of drinking games, I’d never actually taken any bets. This-” He gestures to Zhou’s pile of winnings “-is rather impressive.”

“….would my lord like to play a round with me?”

Lord Wuxian grinned widely at the old man finally getting it.

“I’d love to! But...” He makes a face at the wine jars scattered around the table “I’d rather we not use this brand. It’s too weak.”

“Too weak?! I-” Zhou caught himself from snapping at the other (more powerful) ghost and phrased his next question in a carefully controlled tone:

“Which brand does Lord Wuxian prefer we drink…?” Black Flute snaps his fingers at the waiter he spoke to earlier who brought out several old-looking wine jars that appear freshly dug up. Old Man Zhou critically eyed the newly brought wine.

 “I must confess I don’t recognize this brand, milord….”

“One of my charges made these, actually.” Lord Wuxian turned to the gaping crowd surrounding him. “Try it! Try it! There’s plenty to go around.”

No one moved at first, but the masked server was the first to take a sip. One by one, the onlookers followed. Many of them let out positive exclamations regarding the new wine’s strong taste and just like that, the tense atmosphere loosened bit-by-bit. Old Man Zhou was the last one to sample the drink. He didn’t think that it was kind of trap as he doubted that the young Calamity would be stupid enough to try and poison a bunch of ghosts within Chengzhu’s territory. No. What worried him was that everyone seemed to like this new drink over his own. Zhou noticed several ghosts now putting aside his own specially brewed wine in favor of the new one the young lord brought.

They’re probably doing it out of fear of insulting this boy. He thought scoffingly. Until he finally took a sip and nearly choked in surprise at the wine’s potent flavor. Zhou quickly clasped his hand over his mouth so that he doesn’t accidently spit it out.

This taste…!

He hurriedly tried to get Lord Wuxian’s attention back on him again.

“Milord! You’ve yet to make any kind of bet.” Silver orbs that held a hint of interest flitted back to the old man.

“Hmm.” He tilted his head to the side. Fingers rubbing his chin as he contemplated on what to bet on. His eyes fell on Zhou’s winnings once again.

“Well, I’m hesitant to offer any more valuables. You seem to have plenty of that.”

“Haha! Too true! Why not bet on several jars of that delicious wine you brought for us, milord?”

Wei Wuxian’s brow raised in contemplation. Looking as if he was about to agree.

“Wait! My lord.” The server who brought the wine intervened “Zhou is as lazy as he is clever. He’ll likely study the contents of the wine in attempt to copy it.”

Lord Wuxian’s head snapped back to the old man’s direction.

“Is that true?”

“No! Please don’t misunderstand, milord!” He directed a furious glare at the server. “Bái Māo! How dare you?!” No one needed to see past the server’s mask to know that he was giving Zhou the side-eye. The server’s clear dislike of the elder was palpable.

“Old man, everyone here knows that the quality of your wine has been declining over the years. The only reason we even bothered to serve it here is because we bought it at a much cheaper price.” Everyone murmured in agreement at that.

“Not to mention that instead of trying to save your business, you choose to gamble and drink your days away.” One patron snickered under their breath.

“All of his problems would be solved if he just sold his winery to someone more capable, but Old Man has too much pride.” Another added. The taunts resulted in several ghosts at the den to snigger at Zhou. The elder ghost ground his teeth at the blatant disrespect.

“Alright! I’ve decided.” Wei Wuxian’s declaration cut through the jeers. He beamed mischievously at the old man.

“You can have all the wine you want from me, if you win.” Zhou exhaled in relief. “But you have to bet on your precious winery in exchange.”

“What?!”

Ah, there it is. Hua Cheng thought smugly.

Wei Wuxian certainly knows how to trap a man while playing the crowd. There was no way Zhou could back out of the challenge without losing face. He could feel Yin Yu’s inquiring gaze burning the back of his head. Hua Cheng didn’t acknowledge his hiding servant and continued watching the show.

“What’s wrong?” Lord Wuxian asked innocently. “You asked me to bet on the life’s work of my charge, it’s only fair that you do the same. No?”

The old man was forced to agree, much to Wei Wuxian’s enthusiasm and the crowd’s amusement. Everyone wondered if Zhou would just let the younger ghost win to avoid the risk of angering the new Calamity. The rules are quite simple, whoever finishes their jug of wine first wins. Anyone who backs out mid-game or vomits is automatically disqualified. The crowd wondered if Zhou had a decent enough constitution to handle stronger liquor, especially after his two prior games. More than a few ghosts betted against the old man, as his winning streak had turned him into an unbearable braggart and many wanted to see the elder get knocked down a peg or two.  

They didn’t have to wait for long. The game ended with Zhou kneeling and expelling the contents of his stomach all over the floor. He didn’t even make it halfway through his jug, whereas Black Flute guzzled down his entire jar like water. He didn’t even look the least bit tipsy! Onlookers expressed their enthusiasm over the scene with woops and cheers.

“Alright! Alright!” Back Flute laughed while crouching down and attempting to guide the now dry heaving man to a bucket. “I think the poor guy had enough. There. There.” He patted Zhou’s back when the elder abruptly stood up and put some distance between himself and the Calamity. Swaying on his feet as he did so.

“I demand a *hick* rematch, milord.” Zhou slurred while whipping his mouth with his long sleeve.

Bái Māo let out an audible snort at the pathetic display.

“Lazy and a sore loser.” The masked server commented. “Why should the lord accept when he’s already won fair and square? Unless you’re implying he did something to your drink?”

“Well maybe he did!” Zhou snapped. He’d went from being at an all-time high to being mocked and jeered at by the same crowd he’d impressed earlier. Now the other stupid brat was openly disrespecting him. The nerve!

“That’s a serious accusation you’re making, Zhou.” A third voice piped in.

Chapter End.

Author's Note:

*Ranunculus Asiaticus: better known as Persian Buttercups. They symbolize attractiveness, radiance and charm, which I think works perfectly for the current dynamic between HC and WWX. They just met, so no strong feelings here (yet), this is a slow burn after all, but at least HC is showing some interest. More Huaxian moments to come in the next chapter!

*OCs: Old Man Zhou is just a one-off character meant to be used as a stepping-stone for WWX to start building connections in Ghost City and Bái Māo (literally means White Cat) is just a server with an alias who has a bone to pick with Zhou, WWX is helping him settle the score. Not to worry. I won't have too many OCs in this fic.

Omake:

*Before WWX steps into Gambler’s Den*

Bái Māo: *watches the ‘great and terrifying’ Black Flute pace back and forth in front of the entrance, trying to come up with a good opening line. Feeling his arms go numb from all the wine jars he was holding.

WWX: ‘Ah! Gambling, I see! Mind if I join, my good fellows?’ No no. Gods, that’s awful. ‘Aren’t you the drunkard who threw a drink at me the other day?’ Wait. No. Best not to draw any attention to that. Okay. How about-

Bái Māo: *sighs resignedly*

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Author's Note: First off, I'd like to preface this chapter by stating that I have absolutely nothing against Jiang Cheng. I actually find him to be one of MXTX's most complex characters and his tragic story was excellently written. I re-read MDZS for this fic and took note of how JC constantly dogs WWX's steps like a man-possessed (after THIRTEEEN YEARS of processing), just so he can make WWX pay for his crimes. In this verse, it's only been around two years since WWX's death. So, it wouldn't make sense for JC to NOT try and confront WWX. Calamity or not. I haven't written a lot of angst in the past and my opinions on both JC and WWX's actions might have bled into this chapter. That being said, if you have a problem with the chapter or how it was written, please let me know in the comments so that I can improve in the future.

Jiang Cheng made another attempt to circulate his spiritual energy through his meridians.

He couldn’t feel the energy flow.

Why?! His meridians weren’t damaged in any way and he knew the bastard didn’t drain him. 

He gritted his teeth and, once more, thrashed against the bindings that secured him to a tree. Uncaring of the thorns digging into his already torn skin.

The sound of a twig snap echoed through the forest clearing. He opened his eyes and glared at the source.

Above him were unconscious Jiang disciples and hunting dogs hanging from the branches of the tree he was tied to. Green tinted mist swirled around the clearing and the figure at the centre of it all was looking back at him with an empty grin. 

“You….” Jiang Cheng breathed out, enraged. 

“Me.” His former martial brother responded. 

He carelessly dropped the immortal binding nets he was holding and set them on fire with a flick of his finger. 

Jiang Cheng gnashed his teeth at the ghost’s casual attitude. 

“Did you think that I was gonna fall for such an obvious trap?” Wei Wuxian tutted. “Haven’t all the other clans given up by now?”

It was true. Any cultivator who came close to the newborn ghost would be met with misfortune. Sometimes he drained their cores and broke their meridians to the point that they’ll never be able to cultivate again. Other times he would simply curse their spiritual weapon or had them outright destroyed. The most gruesome was when the ghost sent hired rogue cultivators back to their clients maimed, disfigured beyond recognition or in pieces.  

It didn’t stop at direct attacks either. Whenever the Calamity got particularly irritated, dizi music would start echoing near sect territories, followed by their properties mysteriously catching fire and an uptick in monster activity within the forests surrounding Golden Carp Tower, Impure Realm, Lotus Pier, and Cloud Recesses.

The minor sects had become reluctant to pursue the matter further, regardless of their superiors’ wishes. It was theorized that Wei Wuxian had also been in contact with many low-ranked cultivators, as talented disciples withdrew from their clans without explanation and there was a great decline in new recruits. No one with an ounce of self-preservation wanted to take up cultivation if it meant that they would come face-to-face with the Yiling Lazou at some point. The ghost had become an even bigger legend than before and people have bestowed him the title “Black Flute Summons Disasters". 

Jin Guangshan, through the urging of Jin Guangyao, withdrew his clan from the manhunt. Their argument? All the sects’ resources were stretched too thin and it’s best that they cut their losses. Also, they reasoned, the Yiling Lazou seems to only act out when provoked. It was next to impossible to track him down and he doesn’t seem to cause harm other than in self-defense. How long will he tolerate their actions before he snaps and goes on another rampage? It had almost been a thousand years since the cultivation world had to worry about a Calamity. This was beyond them. Leave it for the gods to decide. 

No one was brave enough to state the fact that the Jin clan was the one bearing the brunt of Wei Wuxian’s attacks. 

Lan Xichen supported Jin Guangyao’s actions by having the Lan clan withdraw as well, which forced the Nies to follow. Much to Lan Wangjie’s alleged protests and Nie Mingjue’s clear dissatisfaction over having a powerful spirit running amok. The Jiangs were the only clan that refused to drop the matter. 

They chased rumour after rumour. Anything that could give them a clue on the Yiling Lazuo’s whereabouts. Most were farfetched and few were credible. They eventually heard from a reliable source that Wei Wuxian had been prowling up and down a nameless mountain in the far south for nearly a week now. Longer than he would typically stay in one place. Jiang Cheng and his disciples went there and set up traps for the elusive ghost. 

Which is what led to the sect leader’s current predicament. 

“Wei Wuxian!”

“Hmm? Oh, don’t bother reaching for Zidian. The mist is blocking the flow in your meridians. Not to worry. The effects are temporary.” He gracelessly plops himself on a nearby boulder and drops his smile.

“Let’s talk. What do you want from me, Jiang Wanyin?”

Somehow, the way the question was phrased infuriated the sect leader. As if Wei Wuxian was the one who had been wronged! He barked out a harsh laugh and replied:

“I want back the lives you’ve stolen and to end Jin Ling’s torment, but you can’t give me that. I’ll just have to settle for you kneeling at my parents’ altar in penitence before ending you myself!” Wei Wuxian let out a snort at that.

“A ghost asking the dead for forgiveness? That’s a good one.”

Jiang Cheng felt his rage reach a boiling point.

All traces of cruel humour left Wei Wuxian’s face.

“What’s it going to take for you to leave me be? Haven’t I already repented with my death?” He asked, expressionlessly.

“Not even close. I lost everything because of you. One death hardly accounts for all the sins you’ve committed.” Jiang Cheng growled.

Not everything. Wei Ying thought. You still have her boy and yet here you are. Stuck in the past.

“Then what would you have me do? You’ve already denounced me from the Jiang Clan, you led the siege that resulted in my demise, you stabbed me and helped in the slaughter of the people I swore to protect. Is that not enough for you?” He pressed.

Just forget about me, Jiang Cheng. Please….

“You have the nerve to play the victim now?!”

Wei Wuxian felt his own frustrations rise to the surface. He shut his eyes and took a deep breath.

“The only one playing the victim here is you.” He retorted. “I’m well aware that the real victims are the ones who were forced to bear the consequences of my actions.”

“So, now you choose to acknowledge Jin Ling?”

“I wasn’t talking about Jin Ling. I was talking about the Wens under my protection.” He opened his eyes again, coldly staring at Jiang Chang.

“Remember Wen Qing? The one you owed a life debt to? You could have at least requested the other clans to grant her a more humane execution. And as for the others…. I know I warranted my own death after Nightless City. But why did the Wen Remnants have to die?” He hissed out the last question. Infuriated all over again at the mere thought.

Jiang Cheng could not believe Wei Wuxian’s sheer gall.

“Even in death…. you still have the nerve to defend those dogs?” He breathed out disbelievingly. Wei Wuxian felt himself snap.

Of course, his hatred of the Wens still hasn’t abated! What was I even thinking?!

“Dogs?” Wei Wuxian sneered. “Is it fair of you to call people who had no part in that fucking war, dogs? Is it fair of you to look at the suffering of the elderly, women and children and simply say they deserved it? To this day, the sects keep posturing about how righteous and just they are, but in the end, you’re all just a bunch of hypocrites who didn’t even blink at the death of a child!”

That startled Jiang Cheng.

“A child…?”

“I’m talking about A-Yuan!” Wei Wuxian seethed. He pushed back the images of when he first found the boy’s corpse after the Siege and continued. “Remember him? Oh, right. I forgot. In your eyes, anyone named Wen is less than dirt. My mistake.” He stood up and took several steps back, taking deep breaths. Trying to calm down. Gods, he felt so tired.

“You threw your lot in with them and shacked up at the Burial Mounds. Even if you hadn’t slaughtered everyone in Nightless City, did you honestly think that you would’ve been left alone?! Was there a plan on how to protect the Wens or did you think all your problems would just go away on their own? The only person you have to blame is yourself!” Wei Wuxian tried not to react at his words.

Ah! Jiang Cheng.... You always knew where to hurt.

This ‘discussion’ wasn’t getting them anywhere.

Was he the idiot for hoping that they would find some kind of compromise?

“Is it even possible for you to let me go…?”

“….No.”

Wei Wuxian laughed harshly. He pulled out his flute and started to play a low and melodious tune. Wei Ying watched expressionlessly as Jiang Cheng’s eyes widened in realization before they started bleeding. He struggled even more viciously against his bindings, but eventually his eyes rolled to the back of his skull. His former shidi's head slumped forward as he fell unconscious.

Wei Ying lowered his flute and let out a sigh. He felt a familiar presence hovering next to him.

“What is it, Wen Qing?” He asked without looking at the woman’s direction.

A ghostly green firefly flew into his line of sight. It took on the vague apparition of a woman before solidifying into the doctor he knows. As a ghost, her clothes were dirtied by soot and ash. Her skin took on a greenish-grey hue typically found among average ghosts. The healer sported burn marks and blackened limbs. Most of the burns were on her lower abdomen and legs. She died from smoke inhalation before the fire spread to the rest of her body.

“Are we just going to leave them like this?” She asked softly. He shrugged in response.

“They’ll be knocked out for the next few days. When they wake up, we’ll be long gone.” Depending on their luck, they will have found the fabled Ghost City and will be let in or they’ll be occupying a new haunt. He changed the subject:

“Did you find the entrance?” She shook her head.

“It keeps reappearing and disappearing, but we’re sure it’s there. What do you think it means?”

“Maybe Crimson Rain is picky with his visitors?” Wei Ying mused aloud. “Either way, we still have two more days of the Zhongyuan Festival before Ghost Market closes.” She nodded and then asks the question he’d been dreading.

“What happens if we can’t get in?” Wei Wuxian felt himself tense before relaxing.

“Then…. we go with our second option.”

“But you don’t know if it will work.”

“I’ll make it work! I’ll protect you all this time. I promise.” Wen Qing gave him a look of concern.

“We believe you.” She reassured gently. “Just please.... don’t push yourself.”

Wei Ying offered her a tense smile before turning away.

“I’ll check on the others. Notify me immediately of any changes.” She nodded although he couldn’t see it. Wei Wuxian was about to leave when she said:

“Don’t let Jiang Wanyin’s words get to you. You did your best.”

He didn’t acknowledge her words and continued on his way.

I appreciate your kind words, Wen Qing. I really do. But you’re wrong about that.

It didn’t take long for him to reach his destination. A vast field of red spider lilies spread out before him. Soft and vibrant beneath the moonlight. Above the flora, many fireflies languidly flew around. Dipping and bobbing as they pleased. A few of the smaller fireflies appeared to be chasing each other in the air. Wei Ying felt himself relax at the sight. He sighed and flopped down on the flower field. Uncaring of the petals floating in the air because of his disturbance. He held out a finger and one of the smaller fireflies landed on it.

“Hi, A-Yuan.” He whispered softly. “Did you have fun with your friends while I was away?” The little firefly bobbed its body up and down enthusiastically.

He patiently listened to the ghost-child's chattering, before gently flicking him away and urging the little guy to go play with the others.

Feeling his eyelids becoming heavy, Wei Wuxian closed them. Just for a few minutes, he told himself.

I want my parents back…

Come back to Gusu with me…

A-Li…still waiting for you…

A-Xian, stop…. You have to stop first. Don’t… Don’t…

He could feel a strange light flicking back and forth through his closed lids. Wei Wuxian cracked them open. Vaguely aware that he cried in his sleep. He was met with the sight of a silver butterfly hovering above his face.

The strange creature gently landed on his nose.

Chapter End.

Further Notes:

*Timeline: It's now been two years since the Siege. WWX spent approximately six months reforming as a ghost and gaining followers at the Burial Mounds. He then spent the next year and a half doing what was mentioned in the chapter above.

*Hyacinthus orientalis: better known as purple hyacinth. The flower symbolizes deep sorrow, jealousy, grief and asking for forgiveness. I'd say it sums up the Yúnmèng brothers' relationship perfectly.

*Zhongyuan Festival: Ghost or Spirit Festival. In this verse, there's a myth that Ghost City's entrance only appears to newcomers during the festival and WWX decided to see if it's true for himself.

*WWX wasn't aware that JC DID in fact speak up for WQ.

*WWX decided to use subterfuge and fear tactics in order to buy time as he waits for the Zhongyuan Festival to come around. He didn't want to outright confront the sects, but he's not above messing around with them.

*In this verse, WWX is PISSED at the sects/clans (and himself) for the Wen massacre and how it was pushed under the rug. He vowed to leave that world behind and protect the Wens' spirits with everything that he has. Most of that drive stems from the trauma where he found A-Yuan's body after he became a ghost. I'll delve into that in later chapters. (Yes, I killed A-Yuan in this verse. Really sorry, but I couldn't stand him being separated from WWX).

Also, the Four Calamities are akin to semi-true folktales in this verse. Hence why the characters know some vague information about Ghost City, when did the last Calamity appear, etc.

There was just..... so much yelling in this chapter. Jiang Cheng is such a bitter and angry man. I hope I didn't make him too OOC. Hua Cheng will appear in the next chapter. Promise.

Omake:

HC: *peering down at a wraith-butterfly resting on his finger*

YY: *walks in with a mountain of documents and sees his lord watching some massacre -starring WWX yet again- that the butterfly was displaying on its wings*

YY: uh..Chengzhu? I have this month’s -and the last month’s- paperwork?

HC: *waves him off* Put it on my desk. I’ll look at them later.

YY: *knows that ‘later’ means ‘never’ and resigns himself to pulling another all-nighter*

Hope you enjoyed it!

Wei Wuxian blinked at the peculiar sight. His face tickled as the butterfly crawled from his nose to his still wet cheek. Right on his tear tracks.

He slowly plucked a nearby flower and offered it to the creature. Trying to coax it off his face. The butterfly wasn’t interested. Instead, it flew away and hovered near a forest path that he was sure wasn’t there before.

The butterfly appeared to be waiting for him.

Wei Wuxian followed.

He was led to a valley and found Wen Ning palming empty air. Wei Wuxian could sense the overwhelming Yin energy permeating from where his subordinate’s hands were pressing. Wen Ning felt his approach and turned to him.

“Wei-Gongzi.” Said Wen Ning. “It appeared again, but it won’t let me through. Look.”

He tosses a rock, the air before them shimmered and the object stopped in mid-air before being dropped to the ground.

Wei Ying watched this with calculating eyes. He glanced at the butterfly, now hovering near his shoulder before grabbing his own rock and throwing it. Once it reached where the entrance is supposed to be, it disappeared.

“…..”

“It seems that Crimson Rain is inviting me.” He remarked. He looked back at the butterfly.

“Can you take me to him?”

After promising Wen Ning that he’ll back within an hour and that he’ll be careful, he approached the shimmering wall.

As soon as Wei Ying passed through the barrier separating the world of the living from the dead, he was met with a sea of red.

He found himself in a street that stretched out endlessly. Bustling stores and stalls line both sides of the street. The crimson lanterns hanging above were painting the night sky in its bold hue. All kinds of supernatural beings crowded the area. Be they ghosts, demons or anthropomorphic beings. Many of them donned masks displaying happy, angry, crying faces. Ghost fires of varying sizes darted between the people, who hardly seemed to notice them.

For a moment, all Wei Ying could do was stare. A child-like part of himself that he never grew out of wanted to do some exploring. He stomped down on the temptation and looked back at where the butterfly was hovering.

It wasn’t there anymore.

While looking around for the ethereal creature, he accidently made eye-contact with what appeared to be a pig butchering meat.

Human meat.

Wei Ying snapped his head forward and walked away.

Nothing to see here. Nothing to see….

He wasn’t left wandering aimlessly for long.

Thin, claw-like fingers wrapped around his bicep and stopped him in his tracks. Wei Ying snapped his head at the hand’s owner and was met with the sight of a ghost lady in revealing clothing. The heavy makeup did little to conceal her rotting face. For a few heart-stopping moments, their eyes locked. He felt a twinge of worry and wondered if she recognized him despite the plain black mask hiding his face -Wei Ying put it on just in case he ran into the people he’s killed here. She blinked at his appearance before giggling coquettishly. 

“Hello, little gege. You seem new around here. Would you like me to show you around?”

Wei Ying forced his shoulders to untense. He gave the lady an impish grin.

“Sorry, jiejie. You’re not exactly my type. But…” He presses a heavy pouch into her hand. “I’d love to hear more about this city.”

The lady’s smile widened.

“Oh?”

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

He made his way to the Gambler's Den and was greeted with a cacophony of noise. Wei Ying chose to ignore the shouting of bets being made and checked his surroundings. Nobody inside matched the Ghost King’s description and he couldn’t see a figure sitting behind the red curtain. Crimson Rain’s usual seat was empty.

He spotted another ghost well on his way to passing out on a table. Wei Ying approached the drunk and asked about Hua Cheng’s whereabouts.

“Chengzhu….?” He slurred. “Ya just missed him. Better luck next time.”

“Is there any other way I can gain an audience with him?” He pressed. Now getting just a little annoyed at his situation.

The drunkard just laughed at him in response and threw his drink at Wei Ying, which he barely dodged.

After being laughed out of the building, Wei Ying put as much distance between himself and the den. He stopped at a secluded alleyway and shook off the excess wine from his boots, all the while cursing his luck.

Wasn’t ‘Chengzhu’ the one who led me into the city? Why hasn’t he approached me yet? Or was I supposed to go to him?

He felt a prickle at the back of his neck. There was a presence right behind him. He quickly turned around and saw a youth in rich maple robes watching him with hooded eyes. The youth curiously titled his head to the side.

“You seem to be new around here, Gongzi. Would you like me to take you somewhere you can stay for a while?”

Wei Wuxian arched a brow. “I can hardly believe you’re helping me out of kindness. What do you wish in return?”

“Oh, nothing much. Merely a moment of your time.” The youth smirked.

Wei Ying examined the stranger for a moment. Something was off about this man. Deciding to test the other male, he called out:

“Chengzhu?”

The youth’s smirk widened.

~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~

They were at an inn that has clearly seen better days. The only individuals occupying the building were them and the innkeeper who seemed determined to put as much distance between himself and the two powerful ghosts.

Both Calamities were sitting at a table opposite from one another. Gazes constantly assessing. Wei Ying took in the sight of Crimson Rain. The older ghost was often described as a devilishly handsome man, wearing an eyepatch, blood-red robes with silver vambraces and a red pearl dangling from his hair. As of this moment, the man in front of him resembled a rich merchant’s son and not the Ghost King of legend. He didn’t even reveal his true form despite them sitting somewhere private.

Maybe he just really likes putting on disguises?  He mused. Not sure what to make of him.

He doesn’t think that the dark eyes trained on him were supposed to be intimidating, though. Wei Wuxian felt like an art piece being inspected rather than a wild animal carefully watched for sudden movements. It wasn’t frightening, per say. But he felt oddly…open. He refused to let his discomfort show and took a swig of the wine served to them.

“So…” Crimson Rain drawled. “What exactly is your type?”

He nearly spat out his wine.

What the….?

The bastard let out a snicker at Wei Ying’s expression.

He was trying to fluster him!

Two can play at that game, Chengzhu.

“Why? Think you have a shot?” He snarked back with a smirk.

The other man’s eyes widened for a moment before he let out a surprised laugh. Strangely enough, Wei Ying felt some of the tension leave his shoulders at the sound.

“Why did you let me wander around your city? Why not just meet me right away?” Wei Ying asked curiously.

“Judging by your attempt at a disguise…” Crimson Rain began while briefly glancing at the mask Wei Wuxian had put aside. “Me coming to you directly would’ve attracted a lot of unwanted attention. So, I led you here. You wanted to remain innocuous, no?”

Huh.

It never crossed Wei Ying’s mind that Crimson Rain could be considerate.

“I still haven’t mastered shapeshifting yet.” He admitted sheepishly. Might as well return the man’s kindness with a little honesty. He knew the mask made for a poor disguise, but what else could he do?

Crimson Rain snorted.

“It appears that the Yiling Laozu isn’t brilliant at everything.” He remarked laughingly. “You’ve been causing such a ruckus, you know.”

“And yet, you still decided to meet me?”

“Hmm. Call me curious. You’re quiet the intriguing case.”

Wei Wuxian arched a brow.

“Am I truly?”

The Ghost King leaned forward. Dark eyes glittering beneath the low candle-light.

“People have had their eyes on you for some time. Many from the Ghost Realm and even some from the Heavens.”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened in surprise. Hua Cheng’s lips curled upwards. Humoured by the other ghost’s shock. He leaned back in his seat and continued:

“First, you were the only living being who founded and mastered demonic cultivation. Then you became the first Calamity born after near a millennium. One who didn’t even take the usual route to gain Supreme status.” Wei Wuxian blinked owlishly at that.

“There’s another way for ghosts to get this kind of power?”

“There are. But you becoming a Supreme after only being a dead for a few months would be considered…. highly unusual.” Wei Wuxian could practically hear the silent question within the older ghost’s words.

“Guess I’m just special.” He deflected. Wei Ying had a pretty good idea on how he gained such power so quickly and he did not want to open that particular can of worms. Hua Chengzhu was just gonna have to live with his curiosity unsatisfied.

Crimson Rain let out an amused huff, but didn’t press any further on the matter.

Wei Wuxian decided to stop beating around the bush.

“I’m not here to talk about my rank as a ghost.”

“Of course. We’re here to discuss on whether you and your people can stay here in my city.”

“It’ll only be temporary.”

“Oh?” He can hear the faint note of surprise in Crimson Rain’s voice. “I was under the assumption that you couldn’t create a realm of your own under the risk of attracting attention from your former allies.”

“I came up with a few ideas on how to make a ghost village. Undetected.” He revealed. They were only ideas, unfortunately. Who knows how many experiments it’ll take until they bear fruit?

“Have you now?” Wei Ying can see the sparks of interest shimmering in the other man’s eyes. “Ah, but I shouldn’t expect less from the Yiling Laozu.”

Hua Cheng held out his hand. Wei Ying looked at it confusedly.

“May I see the inventions that you’re hiding in your right sleeve?”

Wei Wuxian felt a spike of frustration, along with a hint of worry. The conversation seemed to be going around in circles, yet Wei Ying knew that he couldn't simply refuse Crimson Rain -completely forgetting that Hua Cheng just asked for his consent. He pulled out the pouch and handed it to the older man. Trying to not let his agitation -and nervousness- show. Judging by the amused glint in Hua Cheng’s gaze, he was doing a poor job.

Hua Cheng pulled out an emerald marble from the pouch. The sphere was emitting faint whiffs of green smoke. He held it up against the candle light. Inspecting its pulsing shell.

“Did you come up with this while on the run?”

“No. It’s an old invention from the Sunshot Campaign. Why so fascinated with my weapons? Don’t they seem amateurish to yours in comparison?”

“I might be looking for a tinkering partner.” Hua Cheng replied vaguely. Wei Ying’s expression twitched disbelievingly. “Why didn’t you use this weapon in your war?”

Have I had his attention all the way back then?

Wei Wuxian… wasn’t sure on what to feel from having someone fixated on him like that.

“I didn’t have precise control. It would’ve affected both my enemies and allies.” He reluctantly admitted. “Why the need for a ‘tinkering partner’?”

“Does there have to be a need?” Hua Cheng asked rhetorically. “Perhaps, I’m just bored and you can keep me entertained.” He smirked before putting the marble back in its pouch. The elder ghost began examining a jar full of black seeds.

“Last I checked, you had around fifty Wens under your protection. Now, you seem to have twice that number.” Wei Wuxian smiled humourlessly.

“I have a habit of picking up strays.” He remarked dryly.

“Who knew Yiling Laozu would be so charitable?” Hua Cheng asked, amusedly.

“Who knew Crimson Rain would be such a curious cat?” Wei Ying retorted. Hua Cheng chuckled in response. He put aside the spiritual tools and turned back to the younger ghost.

“I have no issue with the Wens residing here in my city.” Wei Ying connected the dots.

“But you need to keep a powerful ghost close to you. If it’s under the guise of a tinkering partner, then the residents won’t panic.” Hua Cheng’s eyes crinkled in delight.

“I figured you’d catch on fast.” He commented, clearly pleased. “This place runs on gossip. Half the city is already aware of your presence here. Despite your…. less than stellar disguise.”

Wei Wuxian winced in slight embarrassment.

I should really improve on my shapeshifting skills.

“I can’t take you up on your offer.” He stated. A part of Wei Ying felt oddly guilty for his answer.

“No?” Hua Cheng looked faintly disappointed. “Not even to trade blueprints or theories?”

“I can’t.” Wei Wuxian stressed. Thoughts on the Yin Tiger Tally and the disaster it spread on the forefront of his mind. He tightly gripped his thighs. Knuckles turning white. Never again was he going to carelessly create such a weapon.

“You’re afraid.” Crimson Rain observed. Expression softening slightly. “You needn’t worry. I won’t force you to create anything harmful.”

Wei Ying still shook his head no.

“Even if I were to create something without the intention to harm, someone smart enough could still find a way to weaponize it. I don’t mean you.” He hurried to say after noticing Hua Cheng’s frown. “I’d just like to keep my ideas to myself for now.” Wei Wuxian swallowed before continuing:

“Chengzhu.” He addressed respectively. “From what I understand, you need incentive to show the people of Ghost City that I’m not a threat, yes?”

At Hua Cheng’s nod, Wei Ying undid the ribbon holding up his hair.

“Hold out your hand.” The older ghost raised a brow at that, but decided to humour him. Once Hua Cheng felt the ribbon brush against his hand, his expression transformed from curiosity to shock.

“What’s this…?”

“Insurance. Now I can’t do anything to hurt anyone and your people can rest easy.” He replied as he tied the ribbon off.

“….is this a bluff…?”

Wei Wuxian solemnly shook his head. Hua Cheng stared at him for a few seconds. An unreadable expression on his face. Suddenly, he burst out in a fit of laughter. The Ghost King clutched his sides and curled in his seat. The ribbon now tightly bound to his right wrist. The younger ghost tried not to look too startled at the strange reaction. He waited for the other ghost to calm down.

“I can’t decide if you’re brave or dumb.” Hua Cheng stated, breathlessly. Wiping away at the tears from the corner of his eyes.

Alright. That’s a fair assessment. Considering what he just did.

Wei Wuxian responded with a shrug and a cheeky grin.

If only he knew the meaning behind the act, he’d realize how audacious this looks….

“You do realize that you just gave me the means to destroy you, yes?”

“But you won’t.” He replied confidently. He wasn’t worried. Besides, this is hardly the first time he put his life on the line.

“And what makes you say that?”

“I’m too entertaining for you to toss aside so quickly.” Wei Ying stated with his signature grin.

“How presumptuous of you.” Hua Cheng snickered.

“How can it be presumptuous when it’s the truth?” Wei Ying retorted good-naturedly.

The Ghost King shook his head. Still in disbelief. He looked down at the ribbon and curiously stroked it with his fingers. Wei Wuxian suppressed a shiver at the action.

“You’re even more interesting than I initially thought.” Hua Cheng admitted. A strange lilt in his tone.

“Hope you won’t get bored of me eventually.” Wei Ying quipped offhandedly. Ignoring the weird churning in his stomach.

“I sincerely doubt that.” The Ghost King breathed out. An odd gleam in his eye that the younger ghost chose to ignore.

It was only after Wei Wuxian finished his talk with the city’s lord, did he seriously think back on the older ghost’s strange reaction to the ribbon.

“Little gege!” He heard a familiar voice call out to him as he walked back the way he came. Wei Ying turned to the jiejie he talked to earlier. She smiled at him.

“How did it go? Did you manage to have an audience with Chengzhu?”

“Ah. Yes, I did. Thanks for the help.” He answered before giving into the thought that’s been niggling at him for the past few minutes.

“Say, jiejie. Is there a special meaning behind giving a Ghost King your ashes?”

“Oh, wel- You did what?!”

Chapter End.

Author's Note:

*Galanthus nivalis: known better as Snowdrops. The flower symbolizes hope, new beginnings, resilience, tenderness and vulnerability. This entire chapter is mostly in Wei Ying's POV and we only get a tiny glimpse of HC's inner thoughts near the end. WWX feels as if their first meeting is about to start something quiet new and different compared to what he's used to and he doesn't know what to feel about that. So, he falls into his familiar confident and shameless façade in order to hide his discomfort. HC is willing to offer safety in exchange for a light-hearted companionship, but WWX misinterprets his offer and assumes that HC just wants something out of him. So, he gives him his ashes as both a bargaining chip and a shield against making potentially new weapons. Completely unaware of the social connotations of such an action and that he just opened himself up more to the Ghost King.

BTW: HC will hold this act over WWX's head for the next century. You do NOT just accidently propose ghost marriage to Crimson Rain and expect him to let it slide.

Omake:

HC: *sitting contemplatively at his office. Occasionally brushing his fingers against the red ribbon tied around his wrist*

YY: *walks in, sees that Chengzhu’s ‘busy’ and was about to go and handle the work on his own -again*

HC: Yin Yu.

YY: *halts* Yes, Chengzhu?

HC: Make sure to empty your schedule by tomorrow. I need you to start planning mine and Lord Wuxian’s wedding.

YY: Of cour- Wait, what?!

I also included/edited in omakes in the previous chapters. Hope you enjoyed!

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