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Chapter Text

The sky above Shānyáng Academy was perpetually cast in shades of twilight, a sky neither day nor night, steeped in the mystic aura that cloaked the school in secrecy and ancient power. 

As Xie Lian stepped through the portal, a shimmering rift in the air behind him sealed shut, leaving him standing alone at the base of a grand, ancient staircase. Shānyáng Academy, renowned across the realms for its rigorous and mystical teachings, loomed before him.

The academy’s architecture was a blend of traditional Eastern design and otherworldly enchantment. Pagodas with sweeping, tiled roofs that glinted in the twilight, stood tall, connected by bridges that arched gracefully over koi-filled ponds and enchanted streams that never froze, even in the harshest winters. The buildings were constructed from dark, polished wood and stone, intricately carved with arcane symbols and ancient characters.

Students moved in clusters across the courtyards, dressed in the academy’s uniform: a robe of deep indigo with silver embroidery that depicted their respective elemental faction’s emblem. There were four factions: the Azure Dragons of the East for Water, the Crimson Phoenixes of the South for Fire, the Golden Tigers of the West for Earth, and the White Kylins of the North for Air. The students’ uniforms bore accents of blue, red, gold, or white to denote their allegiance.

Xie Lian clutched his suitcase tightly, its leather exterior weathered yet sturdy. Inside, he carried all that he would need for his studies: a set of new books bound in dark silk, their titles embossed in silver; a variety of crystals that glowed faintly with internal light; small, stoppered vials of rare ingredients for potion-making; and a deck of occult cards, each card inscribed with symbols and sigils that promised to reveal secrets of the arcane to those who knew how to read them. His uniform was neatly folded inside as well, a rich indigo robe with silver thread, waiting to be worn.

As he stood absorbing the scene, a young man in similar attire approached him. “You must be Xie Lian,” he said. “Welcome to Shānyáng Academy. I’m Lan Wangji, a senior student. I’ve been assigned to help you settle in.”

Xie Lian nodded, grateful for the assistance. Lan Wangji gestured for him to follow, and they began their ascent up the grand staircase. “The headmaster will address the new students shortly,” Lan Wangji explained as they walked. “You’ll receive your elemental faction assignment and then be shown to your room.”

They passed through grand hallways that smelled like incense and aged parchment. They were illuminated by lanterns that floated freely. Murals depicting magical plants and mythical creatures adorned the walls.

They reached a vast hall where the new students had gathered. At the front, a raised dais held a podium behind which stood the headmaster, an imposing figure with a long beard and piercing eyes. He wore robes of deep black, embroidered with symbols of all four elements. He raised his hands, and a hush fell over the room.

“Welcome, new initiates, to Shānyáng Academy,” his voice echoed. A voice both powerful and serene “You are here to master the elements, to unlock the secrets of the arcane, and to uphold the traditions that have been passed down through generations. You will be assigned to your factions shortly.”

One by one, the students stepped forward as the headmaster called their names, facing the four glowing spheres that represented the elemental factions: Earth, Water, Fire, and Air.

Each sphere hovered gracefully in the air.The Earth sphere, a deep emerald green, crackled with the energy of mountains and forests. The Water sphere shimmered like a sapphire, its surface rippling gently as though touched by an invisible breeze. The Fire sphere burned a brilliant crimson, flickering with the intensity of a thousand suns. The Air sphere was a bright silver, swirling with the lightness and speed of the wind.

Xie Lian watched as the first student approached the spheres. The orbs began to pulse in response, each vying for the student’s attention. Suddenly, the Air sphere shot forward, wrapping the student in a gentle breeze as it settled above their head, marking them as a member of the Air faction. The student smiled in relief and stepped aside, joining the other newly chosen Air faction members.

Another student followed, and this time, the Fire sphere darted toward them, its flames dancing excitedly around their form. The student, clearly pleased, nodded in acceptance and moved to stand with the Fire faction.

As more students were chosen, Xie Lian’s turn finally came. He stepped forward, feeling nervous and excited. The four spheres reacted immediately, their lights growing brighter as they sensed his presence. For a moment, all four seemed to surge forward, as if undecided, but then they paused, hovering in place.

Xie Lian held his breath, wondering which element would choose him.

The spheres wavered, their energies swirling and intertwining, as if debating.

The Water sphere rippled with greater intensity, sending out soft waves that lapped at Xie Lian’s feet. The Earth sphere glowed warmly, a comforting presence, while the Fire sphere flickered with an eager, wild energy. The Air sphere swirled lightly, its silver light shimmering like a mirage.

Then, as if making up its mind, the Fire sphere surged forward. The other spheres slowly retreated, their lights dimming as the Fire sphere solidified its claim.

“The Crimson Phoenixes,” the headmaster announced. “Welcome to the faction of Fire.”

The students applauded politely, and Xie Lian stepped back.

Before they could leave the hall, the grand doors creaked open, drawing everyone’s attention. A lone figure entered, dripping wet and covered in mud, clearly having traveled a great distance on foot. His dark hair clung to his face, and his clothes, though once fine, were tattered and soaked. The students exchanged glances and murmurs as he approached the dais, their curiosity piqued by this unusual arrival.

The headmaster’s eyes narrowed as he observed the new arrival, but he made no move to dismiss him. “State your name,” he commanded, his voice echoing through the hall.

“Hua Cheng,” the boy replied, his voice steady despite his bedraggled appearance.

A hush fell over the room as Hua Cheng stepped forward to take his place before the elemental spheres. The other students, who had been watching with mild interest before, now leaned in closer, their eyes fixed on the mysterious figure. There was something about Hua Cheng—his quiet confidence, the aura of power that seemed to radiate from him—that made everyone pause.

The four spheres, sensing his approach, began to react almost immediately. The Fire sphere, usually the most aggressive, flared up with a brilliant crimson light, its flames licking the air as if eager to claim him. The Earth sphere pulsed with a deep, resonant energy, solid and unwavering, while the Air sphere swirled with an erratic, lightning-fast speed, desperate to reach him first. But it was the Water sphere that seemed to sense something deeper in Hua Cheng, something that resonated with its own nature.

For a brief, tense moment, all four spheres surged forward, their energies clashing violently in the center of the room.

The Air sphere struck first, its silver light shooting towards Hua Cheng like a bolt of lightning. But the Water sphere was faster, intercepting the Air sphere’s approach with a powerful wave of energy that sent it spiraling back, its light dimming as it retreated in defeat.

The Earth sphere, watching this battle, hesitated for a moment, but then it too surged forward, its energy crackling with determination. The Water sphere, undeterred, responded with a powerful current that crashed against the Earth sphere’s defenses.

The Fire sphere roared to life, its flames growing more intense as it pushed forward, trying to engulf Hua Cheng in its fiery embrace. But the Water sphere met it head-on, its cool, blue light flaring with an intensity that matched the Fire sphere’s heat. The two forces collided in a burst of steam, the room filling with a hiss as the fire was extinguished, leaving the Fire sphere sputtering and weakened.

As the other spheres retreated, battered and defeated, the Water sphere moved forward, its light intensifying as it enveloped Hua Cheng. The room was filled with a radiant blue glow, the energy of the sphere swirling around him in a protective, almost possessive embrace. It was clear to everyone present that the Water sphere had fought fiercely to claim Hua Cheng.

“The Azure Dragons,” the headmaster declared. “Welcome to the faction of Water.”

The students exchanged glances, whispers of disbelief and surprise rippling through the crowd. Hua Cheng, standing amidst the aftermath of the elemental battle, simply nodded, acknowledging the sphere’s choice with a quiet confidence that only deepened the sense of mystery surrounding him.

"Did you see the way the spheres reacted to him?" one student murmured, his voice tinged with disbelief.

"I heard he’s from a family with no magic at all," another student whispered, his tone incredulous. "How can someone like him have that much power?"

"Maybe he’s not even human," a third student suggested, half-joking, but with a nervous edge. "I’ve never seen the elements fight like that for anyone. He just walked in here, and the spheres went crazy."

"But did you see the Air sphere?" a student in the back added, his voice low with awe. "It broke. I’ve never heard of that happening before. It’s like the Water sphere was willing to destroy the others just to claim him."

"I bet he’s dangerous," one of the snobbier students muttered, narrowing his eyes. "That kind of power shouldn’t belong to someone with no lineage. He’s probably using some dark magic to control the elements."

"Or maybe he’s just that strong," another student countered, his tone filled with reluctant admiration.

Xie Lian, watching from his place among the other students, realized that there was far more to this boy than met the eye.

Lan Wangji led Xie Lian and the other new Crimson Phoenixes out of the hall, casting a final curious glance at Hua Cheng as they left.

Chapter Text

Xie Lian’s room was modest yet comfortable, with wooden floors and walls adorned with intricate carvings of phoenixes in flight. A large window looked out onto a serene garden where ethereal fireflies danced in the twilight. His bed was covered in deep red silks, and a small desk stood by the window, ready for him to begin his studies. Shelves lined one wall, already stocked with essential texts and materials. In one corner, a small altar held a candle and an incense burner, a place for meditation and connection with the element of fire. He unpacked his suitcase, arranging his books, magical supplies and powdered ingredients for potion-making. He also unrolled a thin mat and placed it beside his desk for ritual practices.

Next, Xie Lian unpacked his clothes. Each item was a crisp, white garment—simple and elegant. There was a white silk robe for formal occasions, a few plain white tunics for daily wear, and several pairs of trousers and undergarments, all in the same color. It was known that white was traditionally worn for mourning, and Xie Lian’s wardrobe seemed to reflect a subtle, personal tribute rather than a choice of fashion.

Among his belongings, Xie Lian also took out a small portrait of his parents. The portrait was encased in a delicate frame and showed his parents smiling softly. He placed it carefully on the desk next to a small incense burner, which he lit with a soft whisper of magic. The gentle fragrance of sandalwood began to fill the room, adding a sense of calm.

He sat down on the edge of his bed, his breath catching as tears began to stream down his cheeks. 

After a few moments of quiet weeping, Xie Lian reached for a small, strange bottle from his suitcase. The bottle was intricately designed, with a swirling blue liquid inside that seemed to shimmer and dance. He uncorked it and drank its contents in one swift motion. The potion, a remedy for his condition, brought a sense of soothing relief almost immediately, calming both his mind and body.

With renewed composure, Xie Lian took out his diary. It was bound in dark leather and sealed with a complex, magical lock. He traced his fingers over the seal, whispering a few incantations to unlock it. The glyph dissolved into a soft glow, and the diary opened with a quiet click.

Inside were several letters, journal entries, simple phrases, and notes. Each entry was written in neat, flowing script, capturing Xie Lian’s thoughts and observations. He pulled out a fresh page and began writing about his first day at the academy.

Once he finished writing, Xie Lian closed the diary and recast the sealing spell. He then slid the diary under his pillow. As he placed it there, it became invisible, its presence hidden from any prying eyes.

With everything in its place and his emotions somewhat settled, Xie Lian lay back on his bed, staring at the ceiling as the incense’s aroma continued to waft around him. As night fell, he lit the candle on his altar. The flame flickered, casting a warm glow around the room. He closed his eyes, feeling the fire’s energy resonate within him.

Xie Lian made his way to the dining hall for supper. The dining hall of Shānyáng Academy was a grand, opulent space that reflected the academy's prestigious reputation. Long tables made from dark, polished wood stretched across the room, each capable of seating dozens of students.

Xie Lian took a seat at one of the tables among his fellow Crimson Phoenixes. The aroma of the food was tantalizing—steamed buns filled with savory pork, delicate dumplings bursting with flavor, bowls of fragrant rice topped with tender slices of braised meat, and platters of vibrant, stir-fried vegetables. The centerpiece of each table was a large tureen of soup, its surface shimmering with the light of enchanted lotus flowers that floated within, their petals imparting both flavor and a touch of magic to the broth.

As Xie Lian settled in and began to eat, he couldn't help but listen to the conversations around him. The hall was filled with the clatter of chopsticks and animated voices, discussing everything from the morning's elemental assignments to speculation about their upcoming courses.

"Did you hear about the Summoning and Binding course?" a student across from Xie Lian said, his voice tinged with both excitement and anxiety. "That class is infamous!"

"Yeah, I heard that too," another student replied. " They say it's the hardest one for first years. Only a handful of students ever manage to pass."

As Xie Lian stood amidst the hum of voices, he felt a pair of eyes on him. Glancing to the side, he noticed a boy staring at him intently. The boy’s gaze was neither intrusive nor cold; rather, it was curious, as if he was sizing Xie Lian up.

Before Xie Lian could react, the boy stepped forward with a friendly smile. His expression was open and warm. He exuded a quiet confidence.

"Hi, I'm Feng Xin," he said, his voice cutting through the noise and reaching Xie Lian's ears with ease. His tone was friendly, almost as if they were already acquainted.

Xie Lian blinked, slightly caught off guard. "You're Xie Lian, right? I saw you get assigned to the Crimson Phoenixes after me," Feng Xin added, the smile never leaving his face.

"Yes," Xie Lian admitted, a small smile tugging at his lips. There was a touch of shyness in his voice, but also a warmth that matched Feng Xin’s openness.

"Let's pair up during the dueling class," Feng Xin suggested, his tone carrying a hint of eagerness. He leaned in slightly, his expression earnest. "If you need any help, just let me know. We Crimson Phoenixes have to stick together."

Xie Lian’s smile widened, and he nodded appreciatively, feeling a sense of relief wash over him.

Eventually, the sound of a bell resonated through the hall, signaling the end of supper and the start of their night rest. The students began to stand and make their way out, heading towards their dormitories. Xie Lian followed, but as they exited the hall, he noticed something that made him pause.

Near a large, ancient tree just outside the dining hall, a lone figure sat on the ground, eating quietly. It was Hua Cheng, the boy who had arrived late and in such a disheveled state.

"Why is he eating out there?" Xie Lian asked the students around him, gesturing towards Hua Cheng.

A student named Mu Qing, who had been walking nearby, gave him a disdainful look. "Hua Cheng," he said, his voice dripping with condescension. "He's from a non-magical family. No one knows how he got in, but he certainly doesn't belong here. Most students don't want to associate with someone like that."

Xie Lian frowned, feeling a pang of sympathy for Hua Cheng. "That doesn't seem fair," he said quietly.

"It's just the way things are," another student added, shrugging. "Some people are born into magic, and some aren't. He'll have a hard time fitting in, that's for sure."

As they continued on to their rooms, Xie Lian couldn't shake the image of Hua Cheng sitting alone under the tree. The academy was a place of great opportunity, but it seemed that for some, it could also be a place of great loneliness.

Chapter Text

Despite his modest demeanor, Xie Lian had quickly become a focal point of interest at the academy. Some students approached him directly, drawn by his gentle nature and polite conversation. They found themselves captivated by his calm presence and thoughtful responses. Others stood at a distance, whispering animatedly with their friends.

“Have you heard?” a student in a bright blue robe said, leaning in close to his companion. “Xie Lian comes from a family of great mages. I heard his ancestors were powerful enough to reshape entire landscapes!”

His friend’s eyes widened with curiosity. “Really? I thought I heard he had a massive fortune hidden away. They say he’s practically swimming in gold.”

Another student, standing nearby, joined the conversation with a conspiratorial whisper. 
“I overheard that he’s got connections with half the professors here.”

Unbeknownst to Xie Lian, these conversations floated through the air, forming a network of whispers that painted him as someone of immense wealth and influence. Yet, Xie Lian remained blissfully unaware of the rumors. To him, the academy was a place of warmth and friendliness. Each student who spoke to him was simply another new friend to make.

However, it wouldn’t be long before Xie Lian discovered that his time at the academy would unfold in ways far different from what he had anticipated. The warm welcome and friendly smiles he had come to rely on would soon vanish.

The first rays of sunlight filtered through the thin paper windows, casting a soft, golden hue over the room. Xie Lian slowly opened his eyes, greeted by the familiar sight of his modest chamber. The delicate patterns on the rice-paper walls and the faint scent of incense lingering from the night before should have been a comfort, but today, a deep sense of unease settled over him. 

He felt it again—the dull, aching throb in his chest that had become an unwelcome companion. His magic, usually a steady flow within him, now felt turbulent, as if it was trying to escape his body all at once. With a heavy sigh, Xie Lian sat up in bed, rubbing his temples. 

He knew today would be a struggle. 

Forcing himself out of bed, Xie Lian dressed in his simple robes, the white silk adorned with faint silver patterns that seemed to shimmer in the morning light. His long black hair was neatly tied back, though a few rebellious strands fell across his forehead, framing his pale face.

In need of some solace, Xie Lian decided to visit the library. The vast collection of ancient texts and scrolls always had a calming effect on him, and perhaps he could find something—anything—that might help with his condition.

The walk to the library was short, yet each step felt heavy. The corridors of Shanyang Academy were already bustling with students, their chatter filling the air. But Xie Lian kept his head down, avoiding eye contact as he made his way to the grand double doors of the library.

As he stepped inside, the scent of old parchment and ink greeted him, a familiar and comforting smell. The library was a magnificent sight—rows upon rows of dark wooden shelves lined the walls, each filled with books of various sizes and colors. The architecture was distinctly eastern, with curved wooden beams and intricate carvings of mythical creatures adorning the shelves. Tall, slender windows let in the morning light, casting intricate shadows on the polished wooden floors. In the center of the room was a small, tranquil pond surrounded by smooth stones, with koi fish swimming lazily within its waters.

Xie Lian wandered through the aisles, his fingers grazing the spines of countless tomes. He paused occasionally to pull out a book, skimming through ancient texts on elemental magic, mythical creatures, and the history of the academy. His mind, however, was elsewhere, the dull ache in his chest a constant reminder of his condition.

Eventually, he found himself at the base of a spiraling staircase that led to the upper levels of the library. He hesitated for a moment, then began to ascend. The steps creaked softly under his weight, the sound echoing in the quiet space. As he climbed higher, the noise from below faded, leaving only the faint rustling of his robes and the distant song of birds outside.

The top floor of the library was empty, as it often was. This level was reserved for more obscure and ancient texts, ones that were rarely sought after by the students. It was a quiet, secluded space, with large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the academy's sprawling gardens and the distant mountains beyond.

As Xie Lian walked towards one of the windows, he noticed a figure sitting on a windowpane, half-hidden in the shadows. The person was engrossed in a book, his posture relaxed yet poised. Xie Lian recognized him immediately—Hua Cheng, the enigmatic student who seemed to carry an air of mystery wherever he went. Hua Cheng was reading a small, worn book, and from the glimpse Xie Lian caught of its pages, he could tell it was filled with old fables and love stories.

Xie Lian's heart skipped a beat, the sight of Hua Cheng engrossed in his book stirring something within him. He quickly averted his gaze, moving to one of the tables and pretending to read a tome he had picked up earlier. But his mind wasn't on the book. He found his eyes drifting back to Hua Cheng, watching as the other boy turned the pages with a delicate grace.

Then, as if sensing his gaze, Hua Cheng looked up. Their eyes met, and Xie Lian felt a rush of embarrassment flood his cheeks. Hua Cheng's expression was unreadable, but his gaze was intense, holding Xie Lian's for what felt like an eternity.

Mortified at being caught staring, Xie Lian quickly gathered his things, shoving the book into his satchel without bothering to close it properly. With a hurried bow of his head, he left the top floor, his heart pounding in his chest.

He made his way to the dueling grounds, needing to focus on something else—anything else—to distract himself from the embarrassment. The dueling grounds were located in a spacious courtyard, surrounded by tall bamboo trees that swayed gently in the breeze. The ground was covered in soft, fine sand, and the area was dotted with stone platforms where students could engage in practice bouts. 

The professor in charge of the dueling class was an eccentric figure, known as Master Luo. He was a man of average height, with wild gray hair and a long beard that nearly touched his chest. His robes were a mix of vibrant colors, seemingly thrown together in a chaotic fashion, much like his teaching style. Despite his odd appearance, Master Luo was a formidable mage, known for his unpredictable and unorthodox methods.

"Ah, Xie Lian! There you are!" Feng Xin greeted him with a broad smile as Xie Lian arrived. Feng Xin was one of the few students Xie Lian considered a friend, his bright demeanor and unyielding loyalty a constant source of support. "Ready to take on some challengers?"

Xie Lian nodded, forcing a smile. They quickly formed a group, and soon enough, they were matched against two other students. The duel began, and Xie Lian did his best to keep his condition under control, focusing on the flow of the battle. The opposing team was strong, their attacks coordinated and precise, and it wasn't long before they had the upper hand.

Just as Xie Lian was about to cast a defensive spell, he felt a sudden surge of energy within him—a familiar yet unwelcome sensation. Before he could stop it, a burst of magic erupted from him, the energy wild and uncontrolled. The force of it sent the other students stumbling, and the air crackled with the intensity of the unleashed power.

"Oh, dragon's dung!" Master Luo's voice boomed across the courtyard, and with a wave of his hand, he neutralized the field. The magic in the air dissipated, leaving a stillness in its wake. Feng Xin was by Xie Lian's side in an instant, helping him to his feet.

"Are you alright?" Feng Xin asked, his voice filled with concern.

Xie Lian nodded, though he felt anything but alright. The students around them were whispering, some with genuine concern, others with less kind words.

"He's got Chaotic Qi, doesn't he?" one student murmured, a note of pity in their voice.

"Uncontrolled magic..." another said, their tone more accusatory. "What if he hurts someone next time?"

"Poor guy," a softer voice added.

"Did you see his aura flickering like that?" an older student whispered, a hint of concern in his voice.

"It’s unstable. He could be a danger to everyone around him," another remarked, his voice edged with worry.

"He's just struggling to control it," a third student said, their tone sympathetic. "He needs help."

"Help? He’s a walking disaster," sneered a fourth student. "Why should we risk ourselves just because he can't get his act together?"

"Yeah, it’s only a matter of time before he causes a real mess," another added dismissively. "We'd be better off if he just left."

Xie Lian's hands clenched into fists. He could feel the weight of their words, the judgment, and the fear. It was the same everywhere he went, the same whispers, the same stares.

"Hey," Feng Xin said, giving Xie Lian's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "It happens to the best of mages. Don't let them get to you."

Xie Lian forced a smile, but inside, the ache in his chest had only grown stronger. 

As the class continued, Xie Lian did his best to stay focused, but the incident weighed heavily on his mind. 

The rumors and whispers would spread, just as they always did.

But for now, he pushed those thoughts aside, determined to get through the day. One step at a time, he reminded himself. One step at a time.

Chapter Text

The tea room was a serene space designed to foster relaxation and camaraderie among students. Decorated with intricate wood carvings and delicate screens that let in just enough light, it was a refuge from the rigors of their studies. The scent of jasmine tea filled the air as students gathered in small groups around low tables, chatting softly.

Xie Lian entered the room, holding a porcelain cup, hoping to enjoy a quiet moment. But as he walked in, the atmosphere subtly shifted. Conversations quieted, and a few students cast wary glances in his direction. Some, trying to be discreet, edged away from him, their movements awkward.

He approached a table where he had once been welcomed with open arms, only to find that those seated there suddenly found excuses to leave. One student, a young man with a nervous smile, muttered something about forgotten assignments and quickly retreated. Another, normally friendly, gave Xie Lian a curt nod before turning back to his tea, avoiding Xie Lian's gaze.

Xie Lian, though outwardly composed, felt the sting of their avoidance. The rumors about his Chaotic Qi had spread, and now, even those who had once called him a friend were treating him with caution, as if he carried some contagious curse. 

He quietly took a seat at an empty table and drank his tea alone before heading to the lesson on Arcane Flora. 

The course named "The Enigmatic Botanica," was a highlight for many students, especially for those with Earth affinity. The instructor, Master Qian, was an expert in magical herbs, known for her animated lectures and extensive knowledge. She was one of the few women teaching in the all-boys academy.

The classroom was a large, open space filled with the aroma of various herbs, some of which were laid out on wooden tables for students to examine. Shelves lining the walls were filled with jars of dried flowers, roots, and leaves, each meticulously labeled.

As Master Qian explained the properties of a rare herb known as the "Silvervein Lotus," known for its ability to enhance spiritual clarity, Xie Lian could feel the subtle shift in the room. Students clustered in small groups, discussing the lesson in hushed tones, but whenever Xie Lian approached, they fell silent. Some even moved to other tables, leaving him alone to examine the herbs.

Master Qian, engrossed in her lecture, didn’t notice the growing divide among her students. Xie Lian tried to focus on the lesson, taking notes, but the cold shoulders and sidelong glances were impossible to ignore. Even those who hadn’t outright avoided him seemed uneasy in his presence. 

When the class ended, Xie Lian lingered behind, pretending to study the herbs longer, but in truth, he was simply avoiding the crowds outside. He wondered how much longer he could endure this silent ostracism.

The courtyard, a favourite meeting point for students, had tall stone walls covered with ivy and a large ancient tree at its center, providing ample shade. It was a quiet spot, perfect for studying or simply enjoying a moment of peace. Xie Lian and Feng Xin often met there after classes to discuss their notes and review what they had learned.

Today was no different. As they sat on a stone bench, their scrolls spread out before them, Feng Xin tried to engage Xie Lian in conversation about their lessons. The birds chirped overhead, and the gentle rustle of leaves provided a calming backdrop, but Xie Lian was distracted.

Feng Xin noticed his friend's unusual silence. "Is everything alright?" he asked, concern etched in his voice.

Xie Lian hesitated, his gaze fixed on a distant point. "It’s nothing," he finally replied, though both of them knew it was far from the truth.

Even here, in this peaceful courtyard, they weren’t entirely alone. A few students passed by, giving them curious or wary looks, their whispers just loud enough to reach Xie Lian’s ears.

Feng Xin frowned, his grip tightening on the scroll in his hands. "Ignore them," he said firmly. "They don’t understand."

Xie Lian nodded, but his heart was heavy. 

As Xie Lian and Feng Xin continued to review their notes in the shaded courtyard, their conversation was interrupted by raised voices nearby. A group of students, all hailing from prestigious magical families, had gathered in a tense circle around Hua Cheng. 

Hua Cheng stood calmly at the center of the confrontation, his expression one of cold indifference. The students surrounding him wore robes embroidered with symbols of their noble lineages, their pride evident in their haughty demeanors. One of them, a tall youth with a sharp voice, was accusing Hua Cheng of using magical amplifying potions—a grave offense in the academy, where natural talent and hard work were highly valued.

"I’m sure we all know how you’ve been achieving such remarkable results, Hua Cheng," the youth sneered. "It’s not through hard work or talent, is it? You’re just relying on the forbidden potions."

Hua Cheng’s eyes flicked over the group, his expression unreadable. "Perhaps you’re being seduced by your own experience," he replied coolly. "After all, it’s not uncommon for the weak to rely on crutches."

The implied insult hung in the air, causing the other students to bristle. One of them, a boy with flushed cheeks and a look of mounting fury, couldn’t hold back any longer. "Go back to the muddy fields where your non-wizard peasant parents work! You don’t belong here with us!"

The courtyard fell silent, the cruel words echoing off the stone walls. For a moment, even the birds seemed to stop singing. Feng Xin tensed, ready to intervene, but Hua Cheng spoke before anyone else could react.

Hua Cheng laughed, a sound as sharp as a blade. "It seems my peasant parents taught me better manners—and better magic—than whatever noble family you crawled out of."

The insult landed like a slap, and the boy’s face twisted with rage. Without thinking, he summoned a ghost of wind, a spectral force that roared to life around him, aimed directly at Hua Cheng. The attack was meant to knock Hua Cheng down, to humiliate him in front of everyone.

But Hua Cheng barely flinched. With a subtle flick of his wrist, the ghost of wind dissipated as if it had never existed, leaving the would-be attacker stumbling, his power utterly negated.

The group of noble students, realizing that their comrade had been effortlessly bested, seemed ready to strike all together, their hands glowing with the beginnings of spellwork. The situation was rapidly escalating into something dangerous.

Feng Xin, unable to stay silent any longer, stepped forward. "Cut it out!" he barked, his voice authoritative and commanding. The group hesitated, looking uncertain now that someone else had intervened.

Xie Lian quickly stood beside Feng Xin, his usual calm demeanor edged with a steely determination. "If you have something to say, I suggest you save it for the professors. I’m sure they’d love to hear about this little incident."

The threat of involving the faculty was enough to quell the tension. The noble students exchanged uneasy glances, their bravado evaporating. Without another word, they turned and left the courtyard, their departure marked by angry murmurs and frustrated glares.

Hua Cheng watched them go, his expression unbothered, but when he glanced at Xie Lian and Feng Xin, there was a flicker of something—perhaps appreciation or amusement—in his eyes.

"Thanks," he said, though his tone was more nonchalant than grateful.

Xie Lian nodded, offering a small smile. "They’re just jealous of your abilities."

"Or scared," Feng Xin added, giving Hua Cheng a reassuring nod. 

Hua Cheng shrugged, the tension of the moment already fading from his posture. "They’ll come around, or they won’t. It doesn’t matter to me."

Chapter Text

Morning light filtered through the windows of the dining hall, casting a warm glow over the room as students gathered for breakfast. The atmosphere was lively, filled with the clatter of chopsticks against bowls and the hum of conversation. Long tables were laden with congee, steamed buns, fresh fruit, and various teas. Xie Lian filled his bowl and took a seat with Feng Xin, exchanging greetings and morning pleasantries.

Outside in the courtyard, a group of students had gathered to play a game called "Green Ball," an intricate blend of strategy and magic. A ball made of enchanted jade hovered in the air, and players used spells to guide it through a series of hoops suspended in midair. It was a test of skill, concentration, and magical ability.

Xie Lian noticed Hua Cheng among the players. Despite his quiet demeanor, Hua Cheng moved with a fierce grace, outmaneuvering his opponents and scoring points effortlessly. His intense focus and precise control over his spells drew the attention of everyone around. Each time he scored, the crowd of students watching erupted in applause or groans of disappointment. Hua Cheng’s long black hair was tied back in a simple ponytail, accentuating his sharp features.

“Wow, he’s really good,” Xie Lian remarked, impressed.

Feng Xin nodded. “He’s a natural. It’s a shame some people don’t give him a chance because of his background..
 Just look at him go. I doubt anyone could beat him at Green Ball.”

Xie Lian smiled. “I’ve never been much for Green Ball. I prefer something like ‘Mystic Mahjong.’ Have you ever played it?”

Feng Xin’s eyes lit up. “Mystic Mahjong?”

Xie Lian nodded. 

Mystic Mahjong was played on a board with enchanted tiles that represented different elements and symbols. Players used their magic to draw and discard tiles, creating combinations to summon elemental spirits. It was a game of strategy and intuition, requiring both skill and a bit of luck.

Feng Xin looked intrigued. “I've been playing for years. It's a game for those with a knack for thinking ahead.”

“It is,” Xie Lian agreed. “It’s a great way to train your mind and magic together.”

As the game continued, the bell rang, signaling the start of their first class. The students made their way to the main academic building, anticipation buzzing in the air.

The classroom was spacious, with large windows letting in ample light and providing a view of the serene gardens outside. The walls were lined with shelves filled with ancient scrolls and texts, and the front of the room was dominated by a large, enchanted chalkboard that displayed moving diagrams and runes.

Master Wen, a stern-looking man with sharp features and piercing eyes, stood at the front. His robes were a deep emerald green, embroidered with symbols of various elements. He tapped the chalkboard with a slender wand, and it lit up with swirling patterns.

“Welcome to Advanced Alchemy,” he announced, his voice commanding attention. “Today, we will begin with a fundamental potion that tests your ability to control and combine elements: the Elixir of Clarity. This potion requires precise measurements and a steady hand. Pair up and gather your materials.”

The students hurriedly found partners. Xie Lian was paired with a boy named Shi Qingxuan, who greeted him with a friendly smile. They moved to a workstation equipped with a cauldron, a set of vials, and various ingredients.

Xie Lian glanced around the room, his eyes finding Hua Cheng. Hua Cheng was paired with another student who seemed both cautious and war. The boy kept his distance, his unease evident as he avoided contributing to their shared assignment. Undeterred, Hua Cheng worked alone, his focus unwavering.

“First, the base,” Master Wen instructed. “A mixture of purified water and ground moonstone.”

Xie Lian and Shi Qingxuan measured out their ingredients carefully. The sounds of grinding, mixing, and the occasional hiss of a spell gone slightly awry were filling the classroom.

“Next, add three drops of phoenix tear extract,” Master Wen continued. “It must be exactly three drops, no more, no less.”

Xie Lian held his breath as Shi Qingxuan carefully added the extract, the liquid shimmering as it mixed with the base. They followed the instructions meticulously, each step requiring precision and cooperation.

Xie Lian glanced over at Shi Qingxuan, who was cheerfully measuring out ingredients beside him. Unlike most of the other students, Shi Qingxuan didn't seem the least bit bothered by Xie Lian's Chaotic Qi. His carefree attitude was a welcome relief, much like Feng Xin's unwavering loyalty. On the other side of the room, Feng Xin was paired with Mu Qing, and it was clear that their partnership was anything but harmonious. 

The two were practically shoving each other as they argued over the cauldron, each determined to take control. Feng Xin’s broad shoulders bumped Mu Qing aside as he reached for the ladle, only for Mu Qing to retaliate by pushing him back with a scowl. The cauldron swayed precariously between them as their hands grappled for dominance, ingredients teetering on the edge of disaster. Their bickering was so intense that it drowned out the rest of the classroom, and Xie Lian had to stifle a smile at the sight. Despite the chaos, neither of them seemed willing to back down, their stubbornness turning what should have been a simple task into a fierce tug-of-war.

Xie Lian chuckled, amused by their rivalry. He found himself feeling more at ease than he did in most other classes. Potions required precise measurements, steady hands, and a deep focus—things that suited him well. The absence of complex spells and incantations meant that his Chaotic Qi, which often reacted unpredictably to spellcasting, remained calm and manageable. Here, in the quiet, controlled environment of the potions classroom, he could concentrate fully on the task at hand, without the constant fear of his Qi spiraling out of control. This made potions one of the few subjects where he could genuinely relax, knowing that his inner turmoil was less likely to manifest in front of his peers.

“Stir clockwise, seven times, then counterclockwise, five times,” Master Wen’s voice cut through the room.

As Xie Lian and Shi Qingxuan worked on their potion, Xie Lian couldn’t help but glance over at Hua Cheng’s workstation again. Each time he turned, he noticed Hua Cheng employing subtle but distinct techniques, his movements precise and confident. Hua Cheng’s potion glowed with a clarity that set it apart from the rest. Shi Qingxuan, catching Xie Lian’s distracted gaze, leaned in and whispered, “What do you think Hua Cheng is doing differently?”

Xie Lian furrowed his brow, carefully observing Hua Cheng’s method. “He seems to be mixing the ingredients in a specific order and using a different stirring technique. It’s more fluid and controlled.”

Before they could discuss further, a haughty voice interrupted. “Oh, please,” sneered a snobby student sitting across from them, his nose in the air. “His potion is probably different because he did it wrong. Commoners like him don’t have the refined skills we do.”

Xie Lian looked at the student’s potion, which was murky and unappealing, clearly a result of improper stirring. “Actually,” Xie Lian said, his tone firm, “Hua Cheng’s potion looks perfect. It’s clear and bright, just as Master Wen described. Unlike yours, which suggests it wasn’t stirred correctly.”

The snobby student’s face turned red with embarrassment and anger, but he said nothing more. Shi Qingxuan grinned at Xie Lian and they continued with their work. When they finished, their elixir emitted a soft, golden light, indicating success.

Master Wen inspected their potion and nodded approvingly. “Excellent work,” he said. “Clarity and precision are essential in alchemy. Remember that.”

He moved to Hua Cheng’s workstation and examined the potion. The bright glow and perfect clarity of the elixir caught his eye. “Exceptional,” he declared, his tone filled with genuine respect. “Despite working alone, you have surpassed expectations. Well done.”

Hua Cheng nodded in acknowledgment, his expression unreadable.

"I think I may have judged Hua Cheng unfairly," Mu Qing said, his tone reluctant but earnest. "It seems like he has some serious talent."

Feng Xin shot Mu Qing a sharp look, his eyes narrowing. "You’re just realizing that now? Maybe if you weren’t so superficial, you would’ve noticed it sooner."

Mu Qing bristled at the accusation, his shoulders tensing. "Superficial? Just because I didn’t jump to befriend him immediately doesn’t mean I’m superficial, Feng Xin. We all come from different places—"

"And some of us are too busy worrying about where people come from instead of who they are," Feng Xin cut in, his voice rising. "Hua Cheng’s been proving himself since day one, but you were too caught up in your own prejudices to see it."

Mu Qing’s eyes flashed with irritation. "I wasn’t prejudiced, I was cautious! There’s a difference. Not everyone can afford to be so careless about who they associate with."

"Careless?" Feng Xin barked a laugh, incredulous. "Maybe you should try looking past your own nose sometime."

Mu Qing took a step closer, his expression hardening. "And maybe you should try using your head for once. Not everything is as simple as you make it out to be, Feng Xin."

The tension lingered between them, unresolved but temporarily quelled, as Master Wen cleared his throat.

“For your next assignment,” Master Wen continued, “you will need to gather specific ingredients from the enchanted forest. Choose your partner wisely, as cooperation and trust will be key. Certain ingredients, like the petals of the Moonshadow Blossom, only bloom at dusk, so you will complete this task in the afternoon.”

Students began to discuss among themselves, pairing up once more. 

Xie Lian was about to ask Shi Qingxuan to team up when he felt a presence beside him. Turning, he saw Hua Cheng standing there, his eyes fixed intently on him.

“Xie Lian,” Hua Cheng said, his voice steady but with a hint of curiosity. “Would you be my partner for this assignment?”

Surprised, Xie Lian hesitated for a moment, his mind racing. Had Hua Cheng caught him staring earlier? He wondered if his interest in Hua Cheng’s techniques had been too obvious. Nonetheless, he nodded. “Of course,” he replied.

Chapter Text

Until their evening assignment, the students had another class to attend. 

Xie Lian took his potion, the familiar bitterness of the brew sliding down his throat like a tonic against the storm raging within him. The effects were almost immediate; the restless, volatile energy of his Chaotic Qi, usually a swirling maelstrom he struggled to keep at bay, began to settle. For the first time in weeks, he felt a semblance of peace, a tenuous control that gave him hope. Today, he told himself, would be better.

His Qi, though ever-present, was a quiet undercurrent rather than a turbulent wave. By midday, he was feeling more in control than he had in a long time. The relief was palpable, and he allowed himself a small smile as he finished his lunch, feeling cautiously optimistic.

That optimism was tested, however, when he received a summons from the professors to meet them in their quarters. His heart skipped a beat. It was rare to be called to their quarters, and when it happened, it was never without reason. Bracing himself, Xie Lian made his way across the sprawling academy grounds, his mind racing with possibilities. 

The professors' quarters were located in a secluded wing of the academy, nestled among ancient trees that whispered secrets with every breeze. The building itself was an imposing structure of dark stone, weathered by time yet still standing proud. Ivy crawled up the walls, and the narrow windows gleamed in the afternoon light, reflecting the lush greenery of the courtyard below. 

Xie Lian paused at the entrance, taking a deep breath before pushing open the heavy wooden doors. The room he entered was warm and inviting, with high, arched ceilings and walls lined with shelves full of ancient tomes and scrolls. Xie Lian inhaled the rich aroma of old paper and polished wood. A large, intricately woven carpet covered the stone floor, its deep reds and golds were slightly moving, creating a beautiful and magical picture.

At the far end of the room stood a long, wooden table, around which three of his professors were seated. They looked up as Xie Lian approached, their expressions unreadable. Professor Mei, the head of the academy, gestured for him to take a seat across from them.

"Xie Lian," Professor Mei began, his voice calm but firm. "We have been observing your progress with your Chaotic Qi, and while we have seen some improvement, we believe it is time to take more direct measures."

Xie Lian nodded, his earlier sense of control beginning to fray at the edges. "I understand, Professor. I’ve been trying my best, but I know it’s not enough."

Professor Mei’s expression softened slightly. "We know you’ve been trying, Xie Lian. That’s why we’ve decided to assign you some help." He gestured to his left, where two figures stood in the shadows, having gone unnoticed by Xie Lian until now.

The first figure stepped forward, and Xie Lian immediately recognized Lan Wangji, a student renowned for his discipline and impeccable control over his Qi. Lan Wangji inclined his head slightly in greeting, his face as stoic as ever.

"Lan Wangji will be one of the students assisting you," Professor Mei explained. "His mastery of Qi control is unparalleled, and we believe he can provide you with the guidance you need."

Xie Lian nodded again, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. Lan Wangji was known for his strictness, but if anyone could help him, it was likely him.

The second figure stepped forward, and Xie Lian’s breath caught in his throat. He hadn’t seen this student before, but there was something immediately captivating about him. He had a mischievous glint in his eyes and a smile that seemed to dance on the edge of laughter. The contrast between him and Lan Wangji was striking.

"This is Wei Wuxian," Professor Mei continued. "He, too, possesses Chaotic Qi, but unlike most, he has managed to harness and control it in ways we’ve never seen before."

Wei Wuxian grinned at Xie Lian, the kind of grin that promised trouble. "Nice to meet you, Xie Lian. Don’t worry about the Qi—it's all about balance. Though," he added with a playful wink, "sometimes it’s fun to let it run wild. Keeps things interesting."

Xie Lian blinked, unsure how to respond. Before he could say anything, Lan Wangji stepped forward, his expression stern as he fixed Wei Wuxian with a disapproving glare. "Wei Wuxian," he said sharply, the reprimand clear in his tone.

Wei Wuxian just chuckled, unperturbed. "What? It’s true! But don’t worry," he said, turning back to Xie Lian with a softer smile, "we’ll help you find your own way to control it. You’re not alone in this."

After the meeting, Xie Lian headed to his class. It was a theoretical course on spellcraft and incantations. 

The classroom was lined with shelves filled with ancient tomes, and the walls were adorned with charts detailing the intricacies of spell formations and magical theory. At the front of the room stood Professor Liu, a tall, thin man with wire-rimmed glasses and a demeanor that radiated scholarly intensity.

As the students took their seats, Professor Liu began his lecture. “Today, we will delve into the art of creating spells using specific incantations. Words are powerful tools, and when used correctly, they can shape reality itself.”

Despite the fascinating subject, many students huffed and puffed, whispering to each other about how boring the lecture was. The professor’s droning voice and dense explanations didn’t help to keep their attention.

Xie Lian, however, listened intently, taking detailed notes. He found the subject intriguing and appreciated the complexity of spellcraft. As Professor Liu continued, explaining the theory behind combining words and magical intent, a palpable wave of disinterest swept through the room.

That was until Professor Liu clapped his hands, demanding their attention. “Now, I want each of you to create a spell of your own. Something original, using the principles we’ve discussed.”

The room fell silent. Many students who had been daydreaming or whispering to each other now looked nervous and unprepared. A few whispered frantically, trying to remember the lecture. Some managed to produce basic spells, conjuring small orbs of light or gusts of wind. Others, caught off guard, recreated spells they had learned previously, drawing critical looks from Professor Liu.

“A basic spell is better than a plagiarized one,” he admonished, his eyes narrowing at those who had copied existing spells.

When it was Xie Lian’s turn, he took a deep breath, his mind whirling with possibilities. He had always been creative with words, finding joy in their rhythm and potential. He began to weave an incantation, his voice steady and clear.

As he finished, fiery flowers erupted throughout the classroom, their petals flickering with a gentle, warm glow. The flowers floated in the air, casting a subtle heat and filling the room with an enchanting light. The students stared in awe, and even Professor Liu nodded in approval, impressed by Xie Lian’s ingenuity.

“Remarkable,” Professor Liu remarked with a pleased smile. “Your spell showcased a commendable level of imagination and originality.”

Just as the admiration for Xie Lian’s spell was growing, the snobby student from before stepped forward. Now Xie Lian learned his name—Qi Rong, an Azure Dragon known for his arrogance. Qi Rong smirked, clearly eager to upstage Xie Lian. He recited his spell with a flourish.

Immediately, dark clouds formed on the ceiling, and rain began to pour down, drenching everyone in the room and extinguishing Xie Lian’s fiery flowers. Laughter and gasps filled the room as students scrambled to avoid getting soaked. 

“Excellent execution,” Professor Liu said with a nod of approval.

Then, Hua Cheng stepped forward, his eye gleaming with determination. In a calm, unwavering voice, he chanted.

The rain transformed into soft, drifting snowflakes, blanketing the room in a serene layer of white. The sudden shift from chaos to tranquility left everyone in awe, and a hush fell over the classroom.

Professor Liu looked at Hua Cheng with surprise and approval. “An impressive display of control and adaptation,” he remarked.

The class went smoothly, and soon the students were released for their evening assignment. The day’s light was waning as they gathered near the academy’s edge, preparing to venture into the Enchanted Forest. The forest was a place of awe and mystery, its towering trees draped in shimmering leaves that seemed to reflect the fading sunlight with a soft, otherworldly glow. The trunks were thick and gnarled, their bark etched with intricate patterns that pulsed with a gentle, almost imperceptible light. Vines hung like curtains from the branches, swaying in the breeze, and the air was thick with the scent of wildflowers and earth.

As the students entered the forest, the ground beneath their feet softened, giving way to a carpet of moss that muffled their steps. The deeper they went, the darker it became, the thick canopy overhead blocking out the last of the daylight. But the darkness wasn’t oppressive; rather, it felt like a blanket of tranquility, the quiet hum of magic in the air providing a sense of calm.

The task that evening was to gather petals of the Moonshadow Blossom, a rare and delicate flower that only bloomed under the light of the moon. The Moonshadow Blossom’s petals were silvery-white, with edges that glowed faintly in the dark. They were said to have potent magical properties, especially in potion-making, where they could enhance the effects of other ingredients or even create powerful charms on their own. Along with the petals, the students were also instructed to collect a few other ingredients: the shimmering threads of the Twilight Spider’s web, and the dew drops that formed on the Dragon’s Breath Ferns at twilight.

As Xie Lian made his way through the forest, he found himself approaching the edge of a small clearing. There, bathed in the soft glow of a nearby luminescent tree, sat Hua Cheng. He was leaning against the tree’s trunk, a scroll unfurled across his lap, his eye scanning the ancient text with focused interest. The tree itself was magnificent, its leaves glowing with a soft blue light that cast gentle shadows on the ground. It was a Moonlit Cypress, one of the oldest trees in the forest, known for its protective aura and connection to the moon.

Xie Lian hesitated for a moment, not wanting to disturb Hua Cheng’s reading, but curiosity got the better of him. He stepped closer, and Hua Cheng looked up, his expression softening when he saw Xie Lian.

“What are you reading?” Xie Lian asked, glancing at the scroll with interest.

Hua Cheng smiled slightly and held up the scroll, allowing Xie Lian to see the intricate, flowing script. “It’s an old legend about the Moonshadow Blossom,” he replied, his voice low and calm. “I thought it might be interesting, given our assignment tonight.”

Xie Lian felt a flicker of interest. “What does the legend say?”

Hua Cheng’s smile grew a little wider, and he shifted to make room for Xie Lian to sit beside him. As Xie Lian settled down, Hua Cheng began to read from the scroll, his voice steady and melodic.

“According to the legend,” Hua Cheng began, “the Moonshadow Blossom is not just a rare flower—it’s a symbol of fate and destiny. It is said that if two people drink tea brewed from the Moonshadow Blossom petals, and they drink from the same teacup, their hearts will be bound together forever. No matter where they go or what they do, they will be irresistibly drawn to each other.”

Xie Lian felt his heart skip a beat, a warmth spreading across his cheeks. 

“Is that... is that true?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hua Cheng chuckled softly, his eye glinting with amusement as he continued to read. “It’s just a legend,” he said, though there was a teasing edge to his tone. “But many legends have a grain of truth in them. Who knows? Perhaps there’s some magic in the Moonshadow Blossom that we have yet to understand.”

Xie Lian nodded slowly, absorbing Hua Cheng’s words. 

After a moment, Hua Cheng smiled again, a bit more gently this time. “Come on,” he said, rising to his feet and offering Xie Lian a hand. “We should get started on our assignment before the others gather all the best Moonshadow Blossoms.”

Chapter Text

As Xie Lian and Hua Cheng ventured deeper into the forest, the atmosphere around them shifted subtly. The air grew cooler, the scent of moss and damp earth stronger. They moved in comfortable silence, their steps muffled by the thick carpet of leaves underfoot. The Moonshadow Blossoms they sought were said to bloom in the heart of the forest, where the trees grew tallest and the moonlight filtered through the dense canopy in silvery beams.

As they walked, Xie Lian occasionally glanced at Hua Cheng, noting how the other boy seemed perfectly at ease in the dark, enchanted forest. Hua Cheng’s gaze was sharp, constantly scanning their surroundings with a kind of calm alertness that Xie Lian admired. It was as if he knew exactly where they were going, despite the winding paths and the labyrinth of trees.

After a while, Hua Cheng broke the silence. “Xie Lian, have you ever wondered why your Qi is the way it is?”

Xie Lian hesitated, caught off guard by the question. He glanced at Hua Cheng, who was looking straight ahead, his expression thoughtful. “I… I suppose I’ve always seen it as a flaw,” Xie Lian admitted. “Something that needs to be controlled, or at least kept in check. It’s dangerous, unpredictable. It’s not like other people’s Qi.”

Hua Cheng nodded slowly, as if considering Xie Lian’s words. “But have you ever thought that maybe it’s not just a flaw? Maybe your Qi, with all its chaos, is a reflection of something deeper within you.”

Xie Lian blinked, surprised by the idea. “Deeper within me? What do you mean?”

Hua Cheng turned to face Xie Lian. There was an intensity in his gaze, something that made Xie Lian’s heart skip a beat. “Chaos isn’t inherently bad,” Hua Cheng said, his voice low, almost intimate. “It’s part of the natural order. The universe itself was born from chaos, after all. Your Qi, as wild and untamed as it is, could be seen as a source of immense power. Power that most people could never hope to understand, let alone control.”

Xie Lian felt a blush creeping up his neck at Hua Cheng’s words. There was something in the way Hua Cheng spoke, the way he looked at him, that made Xie Lian’s thoughts scatter like leaves in the wind. “But… if it’s so powerful, why does it feel like such a burden?” he asked, his voice softer now, more vulnerable.

Hua Cheng’s gaze softened, and he took a step closer to Xie Lian, closing the distance between them. “Because power is a double-edged sword,” he said gently. “It can be a burden, but it can also be a gift. It all depends on how you choose to wield it. The way I see it, your Chaotic Qi is like a storm—it can bring destruction, yes, but it can also bring change, renewal. It has the potential to reshape the world around you, if you let it.”

Hua Cheng’s words were like a balm to the fears and insecurities he had held onto for so long. But there was something else in Hua Cheng’s tone, something that made Xie Lian’s heart flutter in a way he wasn’t sure how to interpret. “You… really believe that?” he asked, almost shyly.

Hua Cheng smiled, a slow, knowing smile that made Xie Lian’s pulse quicken. “I do,” he replied, his voice dropping to a whisper. 

The way Hua Cheng said those last words, with a hint of something teasing, almost flirtatious, left Xie Lian completely flustered. 

Hua Cheng chuckled softly, his voice like velvet. 

Xie Lian’s face felt like it was on fire, and he quickly looked away, unable to meet Hua Cheng’s gaze any longer. “Thank you, Hua Cheng,” he managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hua Cheng simply smiled, a smile that held a thousand unspoken promises, and the two of them continued walking in silence. 

They continued gathering the ingredients they needed for the assignment, carefully collecting the shimmering threads of the Twilight Spider’s web that clung to the lower branches of trees and using small crystal vials to capture the dew drops on the Dragon’s Breath Ferns. 

After some time, they came across a secluded grove, bathed in a pool of moonlight that filtered through the trees above. In the center of the grove was a cluster of Moonshadow Blossoms, their silvery petals glowing faintly in the dim light. But what immediately caught Xie Lian’s attention was the figure standing near the flowers—a forest spirit, ancient and majestic, with a form that seemed to be woven from the very essence of the forest itself.

The spirit had the appearance of an elderly woman, her skin a deep, rich brown like the bark of the oldest trees. Her long, flowing hair was made of twisting vines, and her eyes were like glowing embers, full of ancient wisdom. She wore robes of green and gold, adorned with leaves and delicate flowers that seemed to grow from the fabric itself. Her presence exuded a calm, protective aura, as if she were a guardian of the forest.

As Xie Lian and Hua Cheng stepped closer, the spirit turned to face them, her expression warm and welcoming. “Greetings, young ones,” the spirit said, her voice deep and resonant, like the rustling of leaves in a gentle breeze. “I see you’ve come in search of the Moonshadow Blossoms.”

Xie Lian and Hua Cheng both bowed respectfully. “Yes, honored spirit,” Xie Lian replied. “We are students from the academy, and we’ve been tasked with gathering the blossoms for our assignment.”

The spirit nodded, her gaze shifting to the flowers at her feet. “These blossoms are rare and precious. They hold great power, and I have watched over them for centuries.” She paused, her gaze sharpening. “But I must warn you, not all who seek these flowers have pure intentions.”

It was then that Xie Lian noticed another figure standing a short distance away, glaring at them with undisguised irritation. It was Qi Rong, a student infamous for his crass behavior and lack of empathy. Qi Rong’s presence was like a dark cloud over the peaceful grove, his expression twisted in frustration as he sneered at Xie Lian and Hua Cheng.

“Great,” Qi Rong spat, crossing his arms over his chest. “As if I needed more competition.”

Hua Cheng’s gaze narrowed, but he remained calm. “Why haven’t you gathered the blossoms yet?”

Qi Rong scowled and pointed at the forest spirit with a jab of his finger. “This old tree won’t let me take them!” he snapped, his tone petulant. “I’ve been trying for ages, but she keeps blocking me.”

The spirit’s eyes glimmered with amusement as she looked at Qi Rong. “I protect these blossoms from those who do not respect the forest or its inhabitants,” the spirit said evenly. “Your intentions are not pure, young one. You seek these flowers for selfish reasons, not out of respect for their power or beauty.”

Qi Rong’s face twisted with anger. “They’re just flowers! I need them for my potion, and I’m not leaving until I get what I came for!”

Hua Cheng stepped forward, his posture relaxed but his voice cold. “You’re not entitled to anything.”

Qi Rong’s eyes flicked between Hua Cheng and the spirit, his frustration mounting. “What, and you think someone born of non magic peasants and a Chaotic Qi freak deserve them?”

Hua Cheng didn’t rise to the bait. Instead, he glanced at Xie Lian and then back at the spirit. “We came here to gather the blossoms with respect,” he said. “We’re not here to take anything by force.”

The spirit nodded in approval. “Then you may gather what you need,” she said, stepping aside to allow Hua Cheng and Xie Lian access to the flowers. “But be mindful of their power. These blossoms do not give their magic lightly.”

Qi Rong looked as though he might explode with rage, but he was clearly outmatched. He glared at Xie Lian and Hua Cheng, his fists clenched at his sides. “This isn’t over,” he hissed before turning on his heel and storming off into the forest.

Xie Lian let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. “Thank you,” he said to the spirit, who smiled gently in return.

“Use the flowers wisely,” the spirit advised. “They will serve you well if your heart is true.”

With the spirit’s blessing, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng carefully began to gather the Moonshadow Blossoms, placing the delicate petals into their pouches. The flowers felt warm to the touch, pulsing with a gentle energy that seemed to resonate with the forest around them.

The flowers were even more beautiful than Xie Lian had imagined. Xie Lian reached out tentatively, not wanting to disturb the fragile beauty of the blooms. Hua Cheng crouched beside him.

As Xie Lian reached for one of the blossoms, Hua Cheng’s hand moved at the same time, their fingers brushing against each other as they both went for the same flower. The touch was light but it sent a jolt through Xie Lian. His breath caught, and he quickly pulled his hand back, his heart racing.

Hua Cheng didn’t seem to share Xie Lian’s sudden nervousness. Instead, he simply smiled—a small, gentle smile that held no malice, only warmth. “It seems we both have an eye for the same flower,” he said softly, his tone teasing but not unkind.

Xie Lian felt his face flush, the warmth of the blush spreading up his neck. “I—I didn’t mean to—” he stammered, feeling foolish for his reaction.

But Hua Cheng shook his head, his smile widening just a fraction. “It’s alright,” he said, his voice calm and soothing. 

Carefully, Hua Cheng plucked the blossom they had both reached for, holding it delicately in his hand as if it were the most precious thing in the world. He turned it over, examining the way the petals caught the moonlight, and then he offered it to Xie Lian.

“Here,” he said, his voice almost a whisper. “This one’s for you.”

Xie Lian accepted the blossom, his fingers brushing against Hua Cheng’s again as he took it. The touch lingered just a moment longer than necessary, and Xie Lian felt another surge of warmth flood through him. He couldn’t bring himself to meet Hua Cheng’s gaze, instead focusing on the flower in his hand.

Once they had gathered enough petals, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng turned to leave the grove. The spirit watched them go, her form gradually fading into the shadows of the forest, becoming one with the trees and the earth once more.

Chapter Text

As Xie Lian and Hua Cheng made their way back to the academy through the winding paths of the enchanted forest, the cool night air seemed to hum with energy. The Moonshadow Blossoms they had gathered glowed faintly within the woven satchels slung across their backs, casting an ethereal light that illuminated their path. Their conversation had lulled into a comfortable silence, with only the soft crunch of leaves beneath their feet as they walked side by side.

The academy soon came into view, its grand structure towering above the darkened landscape. Lanterns flickered at the entrance, the warm glow spilling onto the cobblestone walkway. But as they approached, Xie Lian’s stomach twisted at the sight of a familiar figure standing just inside the gate.

Qi Rong.

Dressed in his usual garish robes and wearing an expression of barely-contained smugness, Qi Rong leaned against the stone archway, his arms crossed over his chest. The air around him seemed thick with tension, and as soon as he spotted Hua Cheng and Xie Lian, his lips curled into a sneer.

“Well, well, well,” Qi Rong drawled, pushing off the wall and sauntering toward them. “If it isn’t the prince of garbage and his peasant shadow. How was your little flower-picking adventure? Did you two hold hands and whisper sweet nothings?”

Xie Lian clenched his jaw, choosing to ignore the insult, but he could feel the heat rising in his chest. He had learned long ago that Qi Rong wasn’t worth the effort of a response, but that didn’t stop the sting of his words.

Hua Cheng, however, remained calm, his face an unreadable mask as he regarded Qi Rong with an almost bored expression. “Qi Rong,” he said coolly, “I didn’t realize the academy allowed the waste pile to talk.”

The sneer on Qi Rong’s face faltered for a second before twisting into a deeper scowl. “Don’t get cocky, Hua Cheng. You’re nothing but a dirty commoner pretending to play with the big boys.”

Xie Lian felt a surge of anger on Hua Cheng’s behalf, but before he could say anything, Hua Cheng spoke again, his tone still maddeningly calm. “Don't waste your breath trying to provoke a fight you’ll lose.”

Qi Rong’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “Oh, I don’t need to waste my breath on the likes of you.” His voice dropped into a low, almost sinister tone as he lifted a hand, muttering under his breath. “Let’s see how you handle this.”

In the next instant, Xie Lian felt a sharp crackle of energy in the air. A dark, shadowy tendril of magic shot out from Qi Rong’s hand, aimed directly at Hua Cheng. It was a curse—an old, dangerous one.

But Hua Cheng didn’t move. He simply stood there, watching the dark energy twist and curl toward him with serene indifference.

“Careful, Qi Rong,” Hua Cheng warned, his voice barely above a whisper. “Curses have a nasty way of backfiring on the one who casts them.”

The tendril of cursed energy froze mere inches from Hua Cheng’s chest, and for a moment, it seemed to hover there, pulsing ominously. Then, with a sharp crack, the magic recoiled violently, snapping back toward Qi Rong. The force of the backlash sent Qi Rong stumbling backward, his eyes wide with shock as the curse turned on him, burning his hand with a dark, angry mark.

Qi Rong hissed in pain, clutching his hand to his chest. “You… you’ll pay for this!” he spat, his voice filled with venom, but there was a hint of fear in his eyes now.

Hua Cheng didn’t bother responding. He simply turned and began walking toward the academy entrance, as though nothing had happened. Xie Lian hesitated for a moment, glancing at Qi Rong, who was still nursing his injured hand, before hurrying after Hua Cheng.

As they made their way across the courtyard, Xie Lian stole a glance at Hua Cheng, who walked beside him with the same serene expression he always wore, as though the confrontation with Qi Rong had barely registered.

“You handled that really well,” Xie Lian said, admiration clear in his voice. “I don’t think I could have stayed that calm.”

Hua Cheng smiled faintly, a small, almost imperceptible curve of his lips. “Qi Rong only understands force, but that doesn’t mean we have to stoop to his level,” he replied, his tone soft but firm. “Sometimes, respect and patience are the most powerful tools we have.”

Xie Lian nodded, feeling a sense of peace settle over him. Hua Cheng had an uncanny way of making everything seem simpler, clearer. The storm of emotions that had been swirling inside him seemed to calm in Hua Cheng’s presence, and for that, he was grateful.

They parted ways at the entrance to their respective quarters.

The next morning, Xie Lian arrived early at the courtyard for his practical session with Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian. The sun was barely up, casting a soft golden light over the academy grounds. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the trees, and the courtyard was quiet except for the distant sounds of students beginning their morning routines.

Lan Wangji was already there, standing with perfect posture as he waited for Xie Lian. Wei Wuxian, on the other hand, was lounging against a nearby pillar, his ever-present grin plastered across his face.

“Good morning, Xie Lian!” Wei Wuxian called, waving lazily. “Ready for some training?”

Xie Lian smiled, though he felt a twinge of nervousness. Today’s session was meant to focus on helping him control his Chaotic Qi, something that had been an ongoing struggle. But with both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian’s guidance, he felt hopeful.

As the session began, Lan Wangji instructed Xie Lian on various breathing techniques and meditation practices, all designed to help him focus his mind and regulate the turbulent energy within him. Wei Wuxian, true to form, added his own commentary, often with a mischievous edge that made Xie Lian laugh despite the seriousness of the lesson.

After a while, Xie Lian began to feel more attuned to his Qi, the chaotic energy within him gradually stabilizing as he followed Lan Wangji’s instructions.

“You’re doing well,” Lan Wangji said quietly, his voice as calm as ever. “Stay focused on your breath.”

Xie Lian nodded, concentrating on the steady rise and fall of his chest, the rhythm of his breathing grounding him. He could feel the Chaotic Qi swirling inside him, but it was no longer a storm—it was a river, flowing under his control.

As he practiced, he became aware of another presence nearby. Glancing to the side, he saw Hua Cheng seated on a low stone wall in the courtyard, a book open in his lap. Though he appeared to be reading, Xie Lian had the distinct feeling that Hua Cheng was watching him, his attention lingering on the session.

Wei Wuxian noticed too, a sly grin spreading across his face. “Looks like you’ve got an audience,” he whispered to Xie Lian, his tone teasing.

Xie Lian’s face flushed, and he quickly turned his attention back to his training, trying to ignore the fluttering in his chest. He focused on his breathing, on the flow of his Qi, but the thought of Hua Cheng watching him sent his concentration into disarray.

Still, Xie Lian couldn’t help but steal a glance in Hua Cheng’s direction. Their eyes met for the briefest moment, and Hua Cheng gave him a small, almost imperceptible smile before turning his attention back to his book.

Xie Lian’s heart skipped a beat, but he forced himself to stay calm. There would be time to think about that later. For now, he had training to focus on.

Chapter Text

The first rays of morning sunlight filtered through the thin paper windows of the dormitory, casting a soft glow over the room where Xie Lian stirred from his slumber. It was early, far earlier than most days at the academy, and the usual silence of the morning was broken by the rustling sounds of his fellow students waking and preparing for the day’s excursion. Today, the Crimson Phoenixes had an important lesson outside of the academy walls, led by none other than Lan Wangji. 

Xie Lian sat up in bed, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he recalled the plan for the day: a field trip to study magical creatures. He wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but the excitement in the air was palpable. The academy halls buzzed with eager chatter, and even the usually reserved students seemed energized by the prospect of learning outside the usual confines of their classrooms.

After quickly dressing in his crimson robes, which bore the emblem of the Phoenix faction, Xie Lian stepped into the hallway. The scent of morning dew filled the air, and he smiled softly to himself as he made his way to the courtyard where the rest of the students were gathering.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing were already there, standing under the shade of a large willow tree, engaged in what seemed like a lighthearted argument.

"Honestly, Mu Qing, you always take forever to pack for these trips," Feng Xin teased, folding his arms across his chest. "We’re not moving out of the academy for good, you know."

Mu Qing shot him an exasperated look. "Some of us like to be prepared for any situation, unlike you, who forgets your basic supplies half the time."

Xie Lian chuckled as he approached them. "Good morning. You two arguing this early is a sign that today’s going to be interesting."

Feng Xin grinned, his typical boisterous energy already on display. "Good morning, Xie Lian. You’re right—it’s going to be fun. I’ve heard the professor we’re meeting today is... peculiar, to say the least."

"That’s putting it mildly," Mu Qing muttered, adjusting the strap of his satchel. "I’ve heard stories. Apparently, he’s more like a mythical creature than a professor."

Curiosity piqued, Xie Lian nodded as he secured his own satchel. "I suppose we’ll see soon enough. Let’s not keep Lan Wangji waiting."

As the three of them made their way to the front of the academy, they joined the rest of the Crimson Phoenixes who were already forming up in neat lines. Lan Wangji, ever the epitome of discipline and poise, stood at the head of the group, his expression serene and unreadable. With a simple nod, he signaled the start of their journey.

The walk to the field where their lesson was to take place was filled with friendly banter, the warm sun rising higher in the sky as the morning progressed. Xie Lian found himself laughing along with Feng Xin’s lighthearted complaints about the academy’s early morning routines, while Mu Qing occasionally chimed in with dry remarks that only added to the humor.

"Why do they always make these field trips so early?" Feng Xin grumbled, adjusting his pack for the third time. "It’s like they think we’re roosters, ready to crow at the first sign of daylight."

Mu Qing raised an eyebrow. "If you weren’t such a heavy sleeper, maybe mornings wouldn’t be such a struggle."

Feng Xin shot him a mock glare. "I’ll have you know I’m perfectly awake and alert now. I just prefer to do my learning after breakfast, not before it."

Xie Lian chuckled at their usual back-and-forth. "At least the scenery is nice," he said, gesturing to the rolling fields and distant mountains that surrounded them. "It’s not every day we get to leave the academy grounds for lessons."

The group traveled across lush meadows and through small patches of forest, until at last, they reached the wide, open field where the lesson would take place. As they approached, Xie Lian noticed several other factions were already there—the Azure Dragons, the Golden Tigers, and the White Kylins—all gathered in clusters, waiting for the professor’s arrival.

In the center of the field stood their professor, and at first glance, Xie Lian almost mistook him for one of the magical creatures they were supposed to observe. The professor had an ethereal appearance—his features sharp yet graceful, with eyes that gleamed like amber in the sunlight. His long, silver hair flowed down his back, and his robes shimmered like the scales of a serpent. Despite his human shape, there was something distinctly animalistic about him, as if he was more spirit than man.

"Good morning, students," the professor greeted them, his voice soft but carrying a weight that commanded attention. "I am Professor Zhen, and today you will be observing a rare breed of magical creatures known as Lingxi Fei—delicate, flying beings that are as elusive as they are fascinating."

Xie Lian listened intently, his curiosity growing. He had heard of the Lingxi Fei before, small winged creatures from Chinese mythology said to embody the spirit of the forest. Though generally peaceful, they were known for their shyness and would vanish at the slightest hint of danger.

"You’ll be divided into groups to observe these creatures," Professor Zhen continued, glancing over the assembled students. "But remember—these creatures are not to be disturbed. Take notes, observe quietly, and above all, be respectful. Any disruption will likely result in them fleeing or, worse, becoming hostile."

Xie Lian glanced around, spotting the other factions gathering into their teams. His gaze lingered for a moment on Hua Cheng, who stood with the other students from his faction. To his surprise, Hua Cheng was already looking at him, his gaze steady and unwavering. The corners of Hua Cheng’s lips turned up ever so slightly, and Xie Lian felt his cheeks heat before quickly turning back to his group.

"Let’s team up," Xie Lian suggested to Feng Xin and Mu Qing, hoping to distract himself from the fluttering in his chest.

"Sounds good to me," Feng Xin said. "Let’s see if we can find these creatures before anyone else scares them off."

The field they entered was filled with tall, swaying grasses, dotted with colorful flowers and ancient trees. The air smelled fresh and alive, humming with magic. Xie Lian kept his eyes peeled for any sign of the Lingxi Fei, but the creatures were well hidden, blending into the vibrant landscape.

It wasn’t long before a soft flutter of wings caught Xie Lian’s attention. He gestured silently to his companions, and they crept forward carefully. Nestled among the leaves of a low-hanging branch was a cluster of Lingxi Fei—tiny, translucent-winged creatures no larger than a butterfly. Their wings shimmered in the sunlight, reflecting iridescent colors as they moved.

The Lingxi Fei were delicate and beautiful, their faces resembling tiny humanoids, with long, flowing hair and shimmering scales along their arms and legs. They darted through the air like fireflies, but they were clearly skittish, retreating deeper into the trees whenever a human approached.

"They’re more beautiful than I imagined," Xie Lian whispered, his breath catching as he watched them.

"Too bad they’re so shy," Feng Xin muttered, trying and failing to get closer. "At this rate, we won’t get a good look at them."

Xie Lian frowned thoughtfully before rummaging through his satchel. He pulled out a small vial of droplets he had collected earlier from a rare Tianhua Blossom, a magical flower known for its sweet nectar. He knew that the Lingxi Fei were rumored to have a fondness for it.

With slow, careful movements, Xie Lian approached the creatures, extending a few droplets on his fingertips. His heart pounded as the creatures flitted around nervously, but he remained still, patient.

One of the braver Lingxi Fei hovered closer, its tiny wings beating rapidly. It sniffed the air before darting forward to sip the nectar from Xie Lian’s fingers. The others followed soon after, gathering around him, their laughter like soft bells chiming in the wind.

"They’re coming closer," Mu Qing said, eyes wide with surprise. "How did you do that?"

Xie Lian smiled, keeping his voice low. "I guess they just needed a bit of coaxing."

As more of the Lingxi Fei gathered around, they began to weave through Xie Lian’s hair, their tiny hands deftly braiding strands together with surprising speed and skill. Laughter bubbled up from Xie Lian’s chest as the creatures busied themselves with their work, clearly enjoying the interaction.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing looked on in awe, along with many of the other students nearby. Even Professor Zhen seemed impressed, his expression softening into a smile.

But not everyone was pleased.

Qi Rong and a group of jealous students from the other factions approached, their faces twisted in irritation. Qi Rong sneered as he watched the creatures gather around Xie Lian.

"Look at him, acting like he’s some sort of creature whisperer," Qi Rong muttered darkly to his companions. "Let’s see what happens when we stir things up a bit."

Before anyone could stop him, Qi Rong clapped his hands loudly and stomped toward the creatures, startling them. His companions followed suit, making aggressive gestures toward the Lingxi Fei.

The change was immediate. The once peaceful, playful creatures suddenly darkened in appearance, their delicate wings turning black and jagged. Their eyes, once gentle and shimmering, became sharp and malevolent, glowing with a fierce intensity. A high-pitched screech pierced the air as the Lingxi Fei swarmed together, their laughter gone, replaced by an ominous buzzing that sent a chill through the students.

Xie Lian’s heart sank. "Qi Rong, stop! You’re scaring them!"

But it was too late. The swarm of Lingxi Fei shot toward Qi Rong and his group like a storm of angry wasps, their small mouths snapping open to reveal needle-sharp teeth. They circled Qi Rong, biting at him with surprising ferocity.

"Ahh! Get them off me!" Qi Rong shrieked, flailing wildly as the creatures buzzed around him, tearing at his clothes and skin. His companions scattered, trying in vain to swat the furious creatures away, but the Lingxi Fei were relentless.

Xie Lian winced as he watched, knowing all too well that this was Qi Rong’s own doing. The peaceful creatures had been provoked, and now they were showing just how dangerous they could be when threatened.

Professor Zhen, who had been watching the scene unfold, stepped forward, his expression a mixture of amusement and sternness. "The Lingxi Fei are gentle by nature, but only a fool would test their patience," he said, his voice calm but carrying an edge of warning. "They are protective of their home and those who show them kindness. If you wish to stop their attack, you must find a way to appease them."

Qi Rong, still flailing as the creatures bit at him, shot the professor a panicked look. "Appease them? How am I supposed to do that? They’re trying to kill me!"

"They won’t kill you," Professor Zhen said, shaking his head with a slight smirk. "But they will make sure you regret your actions. Perhaps it’s time you learn a lesson in respect. Apologize and offer them something in return."

"Apologize?" Qi Rong spat, barely able to form the words as he batted at the swarm. His prideful demeanor faltered, fear creeping into his eyes as the stings intensified. "I’m not apologizing to some stupid bugs!"

"Then they’ll continue their assault," Professor Zhen replied, folding his arms. "The choice is yours."

Qi Rong looked around desperately, but none of his companions dared to help him. They had their own troubles, swiping at the Lingxi Fei that had begun to turn their attention toward them as well.

"Fine, fine!" Qi Rong finally relented, his voice shaking with anger and fear. "I’m sorry, alright? Just stop attacking me!"

The creatures slowed for a moment, their buzzing subsiding slightly, as if considering his words. But the apology alone wasn’t enough. They continued to circle, their sharp teeth still nipping at the air around him.

"Offer them something," Xie Lian called out, taking a step forward. "They’re not just angry; they feel threatened. Show them you mean no harm."

Qi Rong growled under his breath but, realizing he had no other choice, fumbled with the pouch at his belt. He pulled out a handful of sweet-smelling herbs—likely his last hope—and held them up toward the creatures. "Here! Take this, you pests!"

The Lingxi Fei hovered in mid-air for a moment, their sharp eyes scanning the herbs before, slowly, they began to calm. Their wings returned to their soft, iridescent state, their black, jagged edges fading away as they cautiously approached the offering. One by one, they took the herbs, and soon enough, the swarm dissipated, returning to the trees and flowers where they had been before.

Qi Rong let out a shaky breath, his face pale and his clothes torn from the ordeal. He glared at Xie Lian with venomous hatred but said nothing, too humiliated to continue his usual taunts. He stormed away, muttering curses under his breath as his companions followed, equally chastised.

Professor Zhen turned to the rest of the students, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "Let this be a lesson to all of you. Magic, especially in its most natural forms, must be treated with respect. These creatures may be small, but they are part of a delicate balance. Disrupt that balance, and the consequences are never in your favor."

Chapter Text

Today’s lesson on divination was particularly challenging, even for Xie Lian, who found himself struggling to focus. The professor, a wizened old man with a bald head and a thick robe adorned with celestial symbols, moved about the room with deliberate grace, his voice low and reverent as he described the process.

“Divination,” the professor began, “is not simply the act of seeing the future. It is the art of glimpsing the infinite possibilities the world holds, of understanding the threads of fate and how they intertwine.”

Xie Lian sat cross-legged at his desk, trying to empty his mind, as instructed. It was easier said than done, especially with his Chaotic Qi always buzzing just beneath the surface, like a storm he couldn’t quite control. The potion he had taken earlier helped, but it was never enough to fully quell the turbulence within him.

As the lesson progressed, the professor guided the students through a series of mental exercises meant to open their minds to the flow of time. Xie Lian focused on his breathing, letting the professor’s voice fade into the background as he attempted to tune into the unseen forces around him.

The air around him seemed to shift, the classroom blurring as his vision began to waver. For a moment, it felt as though he was no longer tethered to the present. He could see something in the distance, just out of reach, like a dream hovering on the edge of his consciousness.

And then, it hit him—a sudden, vivid image flashed in his mind, leaving him breathless.

Xie Lian stood in a ruined palace, the walls crumbling around him. A thick mist swirled through the broken halls, and the sky above was a deep, ominous red. He was not alone. There, in the shadows, loomed a figure—a man with a face obscured by darkness. Though he couldn’t see the man clearly, there was an undeniable sense of power emanating from him. A terrible power, one that sent a shiver down Xie Lian’s spine. The figure turned toward him, and Xie Lian’s heart froze. His eyes—those piercing, burning eyes—were fixed on him, as though seeing into his very soul.

Then, just as quickly as the vision appeared, it vanished, and Xie Lian found himself back in the classroom, his heart racing.

The professor’s voice brought him back to the present. “Some of you may have seen something—a glimpse, perhaps, of what lies ahead,” he said, his gaze sweeping over the students. “If you experienced a vision, remain behind after class. We will discuss it.”

Xie Lian glanced around the room. He wasn’t the only one who seemed shaken. Several other students looked equally unsettled, their faces pale and eyes wide. Among them were students who hailed from prestigious families—children of nobles and powerful cultivators, known for their strong lineage and talents. These students, often referred to as the "elite," were respected and revered by the academy for their impressive abilities.

When the class ended, Xie Lian remained seated, waiting for the professor’s instructions. The elite students gathered near the front of the room, exchanging hushed whispers. Xie Lian couldn’t help but notice the glances they threw his way—sharp and disdainful.

“Alright,” the professor said, stepping to the center of the room. “Those of you who saw premonitions today will form a special group. The ability to tap into the flow of time is rare, and you will need to work together to hone that skill.”

There was a murmur of agreement from the elite students, but Xie Lian sensed their dissatisfaction growing when they realized he would be included in the group. It was no secret that Xie Lian was seen as an outsider by many, especially because of his Chaotic Qi. To the elite, his presence among them was an affront.

As they left the classroom, Xie Lian felt the weight of their stares, their judgment hanging in the air like a cloud.

The rest of the day passed in a blur, and soon it was time for lunch. Xie Lian sat at a long table in the academy’s dining hall, surrounded by the lively chatter of other students. Feng Xin and Mu Qing sat across from him, both engaged in a lighthearted argument over who had performed better in their earlier lessons.

“You almost tripped over your own feet during that sparring session,” Mu Qing said with a smirk, jabbing his chopsticks in Feng Xin’s direction.

“At least I wasn’t out of breath after five minutes,” Feng Xin shot back, rolling his eyes.

Xie Lian smiled at their banter, though his mind was still preoccupied with the vision he had seen earlier. What had it meant? Who was that figure in the ruins?

Suddenly, a strange sensation washed over him, a creeping awareness that something wasn’t right. He looked up just in time to see the group of elite students from before approaching their table, led by a tall boy with sharp features and an arrogant smirk. That boy was in their fraction, he was also a Phoenix.

“Look who we have here,” the tall boy drawled, his voice dripping with condescension. “The great Xie Lian, the one with the chaotic Qi, thinking he can play at divination like the rest of us.”

Xie Lian stiffened, meeting the boy's gaze but saying nothing. He had seen that boy before, but today felt different. There was a dangerous glint in his eyes.

Without warning, the boy reached out and grabbed Xie Lian’s ponytail, yanking it sharply. Xie Lian winced, caught off guard.

“If you’re so good at seeing the future,” the boy sneered, “why didn’t you foresee this?”

Before Xie Lian could react, a small flicker of flame ignited at the end of his hair. Panic shot through him as he realized the boy had set his ponytail on fire.

Feng Xin was the first to leap into action, grabbing a cup of water from the table and dousing the flames before they could spread further. “Are you insane?” he shouted, glaring at the boy. “What’s wrong with you?”

Mu Qing, ever composed, pulled Xie Lian back, inspecting the damage. “It’s not too bad,” he muttered, though his eyes were sharp with anger. “But you’re lucky we put it out quickly.”

The boy laughed, stepping back as if he’d just played a harmless prank. “Oh, come on. It was just a little fire. Nothing someone like a Crimson Phoenix can't handle, right?”

Xie Lian’s heart pounded in his chest, his mind racing. He could feel the other students in the dining hall watching, their attention drawn to the commotion. Humiliation and anger welled up inside him, but he bit down on his tongue, refusing to give that boy the satisfaction of a reaction.

“Next time, try foreseeing your own bad luck,” the boy added, his tone mocking.

Feng Xin’s fists clenched at his sides, his entire body tense as he glared at the boy. “You’ve crossed a line,” he growled. “If you don’t leave now, you’ll regret it.”

Mu Qing, too, was watching the bully with icy disdain. “Starting fires in the middle of the dining hall isn’t exactly the mark of a genius,” he said coolly. “I’m sure the professors would love to hear about this.”

The boy's smirk faltered slightly at the mention of the professors, but he quickly recovered, shrugging as though it didn’t matter. “Whatever,” he said, waving a hand dismissively. “Just remember, Xie Lian—you may have seen a premonition today, but you’ll never be one of us.”

With that, the boy turned and walked away, his group of sycophants following close behind, snickering among themselves.

As soon as they were gone, Feng Xin turned to Xie Lian, his expression softening with concern. “Are you alright? That was completely out of line.”

Xie Lian nodded, though his heart was still racing. “I’m fine,” he said quietly. “It was just... unexpected.”

“Wen Chao is a nasty piece of work,” Mu Qing said, his voice calm but edged with a quiet firmness. His eyes flickered with disdain, the name tasting bitter on his tongue. “Wen Chao…” Xie Lian repeated, the name rolling slowly off his lips, unfamiliar yet somehow weighted with significance. He hadn’t known the boy’s name before, but now he did. 

Xie Lian forced a smile, though his mind was still spinning. The vision he had seen earlier, combined with Wen Chao's cruel stunt, left him feeling off-balance, as though the world around him was shifting in ways he couldn’t yet understand.

Chapter Text

The library was quiet, save for the soft rustling of pages and the low murmur of students studying diligently. Mu Qing and Feng Xin sat at one of the tables, surrounded by an assortment of scrolls, books, and parchment. They were supposed to be working together on their assignment for the Theory of Spell Crafting, but as usual, their cooperation had devolved into bickering.

"You can't just throw magic at a problem and hope it sticks," Mu Qing said, his tone clipped as he glared across the table at Feng Xin. "Spellcrafting requires precision. We need to follow the formula step by step."

Feng Xin rolled his eyes, leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed. "And you think adding more footnotes and complicated calculations is going to help? Sometimes magic is about instinct, not just theory."

"Instinct? Really?" Mu Qing retorted, his voice rising in disbelief. "That's why your last spell backfired and nearly blew up the training room?"

"That was one time!" Feng Xin snapped, leaning forward now, eyes blazing. "And it wasn’t my fault! The components were defective!"

Mu Qing snorted. "Right. Because blaming inanimate objects is definitely going to help us pass this assignment."

They stared at each other for a tense moment before Feng Xin threw his hands up in exasperation. "Fine! You want to do it your way, go ahead! But when it fails, don’t come crying to me."

"It won’t fail," Mu Qing said coolly, pushing the book toward him. "Because we’ll do it properly. Now, if you could just focus for once, we might actually get this done."

Feng Xin muttered something under his breath but reluctantly leaned back over the book, clearly unwilling to admit defeat. As the two continued to argue in hushed voices, the other students in the library occasionally glanced their way, but no one intervened. Their bickering was well-known, and by now, most people were used to it.

They may have fought constantly, but when it mattered, they had each other’s backs. Still, neither would ever admit it out loud.

After what felt like hours, Mu Qing slammed the book shut with a sigh. "We’re done for now. Let's hand this in tomorrow."

Feng Xin stretched his arms above his head, grateful for the reprieve. "Finally. I thought we'd be here all night."

As they packed up their things and prepared to leave, Mu Qing glanced toward the door. "Where’s Xie Lian, by the way? I thought he was supposed to meet us here."

Feng Xin frowned, his usual carefree expression shifting to one of concern. "He’s been holed up in his dorm all day. I think he's still upset about what happened with Wen Chao."

Mu Qing sighed. "I figured. That idiot really crossed the line."

The incident with Wen Chao and the fire had left Xie Lian shaken. Not only had his ponytail been burned, but he'd been forced to cut his hair afterward.

"Let’s check on him later," Feng Xin said as they walked out of the library. "Make sure he's okay."

But before they could head toward Xie Lian’s dorm, they noticed a small crowd gathering just outside the library’s entrance. In the center of the group, two figures stood facing each other, tension crackling in the air between them.

Hua Cheng and Wen Chao.

Feng Xin’s eyes widened. "What the—are they dueling? That’s against the rules!"

Mu Qing's eyes narrowed. "They don’t seem to care."

It was true. Duels on school grounds were strictly prohibited, but neither Hua Cheng nor Wen Chao seemed concerned with the consequences. The crowd surrounding them watched with rapt attention, whispering among themselves about what had prompted the confrontation.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing moved closer, pushing their way to the front of the crowd just in time to see the duel begin.

Wen Chao, with his tall, imposing frame, wasted no time in summoning a spell. A swirling vortex of fire erupted from his hands, blazing with an intensity that made the nearby students step back in alarm. The flames roared toward Hua Cheng, who stood calmly, a faint smirk on his lips.

Hua Cheng raised his hand, and with a simple flick of his wrist, a barrier of shadow enveloped him, absorbing the flames. But even as the fire dissipated, Wen Chao was quick to press the attack. He followed up with a series of lightning-fast strikes, each one more powerful than the last. His movements were fluid, each spell cast with precision and confidence.

For a moment, it seemed as though Hua Cheng was on the defensive, his magic barely keeping up with Wen Chao’s relentless assault. He dodged, deflected, and blocked, but the strain was beginning to show. A bead of sweat trickled down Hua Cheng's forehead, and a cut opened up on his cheek from one of Wen Chao’s more precise attacks.

"Is Hua Cheng…losing?" Feng Xin whispered, his brow furrowed in concern.

Mu Qing’s gaze was sharp, watching every movement. "No. He’s playing with him. Just wait."

Sure enough, as Wen Chao launched a massive blast of fire that seemed poised to overwhelm Hua Cheng entirely, something shifted. Hua Cheng’s smirk widened, and instead of dodging, he stepped directly into the path of the fire.

The crowd gasped, certain that Hua Cheng was about to be incinerated. But then, in the blink of an eye, the fire dissipated into a flurry of black butterflies.

"How—" Wen Chao’s eyes widened in shock as his most powerful attack was rendered harmless.

Before Wen Chao could react, Hua Cheng moved. With a speed that was almost impossible to follow, he closed the distance between them, his hand glowing with dark energy. He touched Wen Chao’s chest, and the next moment, Wen Chao was sent flying backward, crashing into the ground with a heavy thud.

The crowd fell silent, watching in awe as Hua Cheng stood over his fallen opponent. Wen Chao groaned, clearly disoriented from the impact, but otherwise unharmed.

Hua Cheng, however, wasn’t done. He knelt beside Wen Chao, his voice low and dangerous as he spoke. "I want your ponytail."

Wen Chao blinked, still dazed. "What?"

Hua Cheng reached into his sleeve and pulled out a small, sharp blade. He held it out to Wen Chao, his eyes cold and unyielding. "Cut your hair."

Wen Chao’s face went pale, his arrogance evaporating in an instant. "You can’t be serious—"

"I am," Hua Cheng said, his tone leaving no room for argument. 

Wen Chao’s hands trembled as he stared at the blade, his pride warring with the fear in his eyes. The crowd watched in stunned silence, no one daring to intervene.

Finally, Wen Chao reached up, his hand shaking as he took the blade from Hua Cheng. With a grimace, he cut through his ponytail, the long strands of hair falling to the ground in front of him.

Hua Cheng stood up, his expression unreadable as he looked down at Wen Chao. 

Feng Xin and Mu Qing exchanged a glance, both equally shocked by what they had just witnessed.

____

Lan Wangji stood on one of the higher terraces of the academy, gazing out over the sprawling grounds. The stillness of the moment, the gentle breeze brushing against his robes, was interrupted by a ripple in the spiritual energy surrounding him. It was faint at first, like the distant rumbling of a storm, but it soon grew stronger—a disturbance he couldn't ignore.

His eyes narrowed slightly as his sharp senses picked up on the clashing of powerful auras. His attention snapped to a spot near the library, where a crowd had begun to gather. Something was happening, something that shouldn’t be.

Without hesitation, Lan Wangji activated a simple spell. His body became weightless, carried by a breeze that obeyed his will, transporting him swiftly toward the scene below.

As he approached, the noise grew louder—the sound of crackling flames, followed by the unmistakable hum of defensive magic. His brow furrowed in disapproval as he realized what was happening.

A duel.

On school grounds.

Lan Wangji landed gracefully just on the edge of the crowd, his presence immediately felt by those around him. They parted instinctively, bowing their heads as he passed, his expression cold and unreadable. His gaze swept over the scene, taking in the fallen figure of Wen Chao, disheveled and kneeling on the ground, his severed ponytail at his feet. Standing above him was none other than Hua Cheng, his face calm, almost indifferent, as if the fight had been nothing more than a minor inconvenience.

Lan Wangji’s eyes darkened, but he remained silent for a moment, allowing the weight of his presence to sink into the atmosphere. The crowd fell into an uneasy quiet.

"What is the meaning of this?" Lan Wangji asked, his voice low but filled with authority. It cut through the tension like a blade, sharp and clear. His golden eyes flicked between Wen Chao, still stunned on the ground, and Hua Cheng, who remained standing.

Hua Cheng did not respond immediately. He simply stared back at Lan Wangji. There was no trace of defiance, only quiet resolve.

"I will face the consequences," Hua Cheng finally said, his voice steady. "Whatever punishment is necessary, I will take full responsibility."

Lan Wangji's frown deepened. This was not the response he had expected. Hua Cheng's calm demeanor, even in the face of certain punishment, was unsettling. It was as though the consequences didn’t matter to him.

"Why?" Lan Wangji asked, his tone firm, pressing for an explanation. "What led to this?"

Before Hua Cheng could respond—or perhaps before he chose not to—another voice rang out from the crowd, clear and full of mischief.

"Lan Zhan, Lan Zhan!" Wei Wuxian’s voice called out, his usual playful tone tinged with excitement. He emerged from the crowd, looking entirely too pleased with himself as he made his way over. He had clearly been there the whole time, watching the duel unfold with great enthusiasm.

"I can explain," Wei Wuxian said cheerfully, coming to stand beside Hua Cheng. He glanced at Wen Chao, lying on the ground, and his smile widened in amusement before he turned his attention back to Lan Wangji. "This... probably has something to do with Xie Lian."

Chapter Text

The halls of the academy felt unusually silent as Hua Cheng walked toward the professor's office. His footsteps echoed faintly against the wooden floors. Though Hua Cheng had faced countless challenges before, something about this felt different. The prospect of being summoned for a formal inquiry—facing the academy’s council of esteemed mages—was unlike any duel or battle he had fought.

Outside the office, two grand doors loomed large, each engraved with mystical symbols. These doors separated the mundane from the extraordinary; behind them sat the academy’s most powerful and revered figures, arbiters of order within the school.

Hua Cheng pushed open the doors, stepping into the room.

The professor’s office was vast, more like an ancient hall than a simple workspace. Tall shelves lined the walls, packed with books, scrolls, and magical artifacts that radiated different auras—some dark and ominous, others shimmering with protective light. In the center of the room stood a circular table carved from obsidian.

At the far end of the room sat three figures—highly esteemed mages known for their wisdom, power, and ability to pass judgment on student disputes. These were no ordinary professors. Each of them was draped in long robes that shimmered with ethereal energy, their faces obscured by the hoods they wore, adding to their air of mystery.

One of them, seated in the middle, was known as Mage Li, an older man with silver hair that glowed faintly in the dim light. His reputation as the most skilled practitioner of divination in the academy preceded him. He had the rare and unsettling ability to “read lies”—to discern truth from falsehood with uncanny precision. Next to him was Mage Wei, a tall, gaunt woman with sharp eyes that seemed to pierce through any façade, and finally Mage Zhou, a reclusive scholar who barely spoke but was known for his vast knowledge of ancient spells.

As Hua Cheng entered, he saw that he wasn’t the only one summoned. Wen Chao was already there, looking disheveled but defiant, sitting stiffly on one of the chairs before the council. Across from him sat Xie Lian, looking visibly uncomfortable, his posture tense as he tried to keep calm. Hua Cheng's heart gave a small, unexpected lurch at the sight of him.

"Ah, the final participant arrives," Mage Li said softly, his voice calm but authoritative. "Please, Hua Cheng, take a seat. This is a delicate matter we must address."

Hua Cheng moved toward the seat closest to Xie Lian, but he didn’t sit. He stood behind the chair, arms crossed, radiating defiance. His eyes caught Xie Lian's gaze, and for a fleeting moment, something unspoken passed between them. Xie Lian flushed and quickly looked away, unsure how to interpret the intensity of Hua Cheng’s stare.

Mage Li cleared his throat. "Wen Chao, Hua Cheng, and Xie Lian—this council has convened today to discuss a grave violation of academy rules: a duel on school grounds. Both parties, Wen Chao and Hua Cheng, were involved in this altercation. However, we have also been informed that Xie Lian may bear some responsibility, as Wen Chao claims."

Wen Chao, seizing the moment, leaned forward. "That’s right, Master Li," he said, his voice dripping with false sincerity. "Xie Lian is the one who started all of this. He’s been—well, he’s been manipulating the situation from the beginning. He practically begged Hua Cheng to fight me, using his connections to stir up trouble."

Xie Lian’s eyes widened in shock. "That’s not true!" he protested, unable to remain silent in the face of such blatant lies. "I never asked Hua Cheng to fight anyone. I had no idea this would happen."

Mage Li raised a hand, silencing them both. "We will hear all perspectives, and we will discern the truth in time."

Hua Cheng remained silent, though his jaw tightened in frustration. He hated these formalities, this bureaucratic process that seemed to twist events to fit the narrative of those in power. Wen Chao was lying through his teeth, but it was clear he thought he could get away with it.

Mage Wei, sitting to Mage Li’s left, leaned forward. "Wen Chao, your story is... interesting. But I find it odd that Xie Lian would manipulate anyone into dueling, given his reputation. And you claim he asked Hua Cheng to intervene?"

"Yes," Wen Chao insisted. "He's just playing the victim now, but Xie Lian has always been calculating, trying to gain favor with people who are stronger than him."

Before anyone could respond, Mage Li's eyes, glowing faintly, focused on Wen Chao. There was a tense silence in the room, and even Wen Chao began to fidget under the mage’s piercing gaze.

“Your words,” Mage Li said slowly, “are laced with falsehoods.”

Wen Chao paled.

"The truth of the matter is evident to me," Mage Li continued, his voice unyielding. "You are lying, Wen Chao. Xie Lian did not manipulate Hua Cheng. You were the one who instigated this. In fact, you started the conflict by humiliating Xie Lian during lunch, did you not?"

Wen Chao stammered, his confidence draining. "I—I—"

"Enough." Mage Li’s voice brooked no further deceit. "We will not tolerate lies in this chamber. The truth has already revealed itself."

Xie Lian watched the exchange with wide eyes, his heart pounding in his chest. He had no idea the council could so easily detect lies, and the revelation that Wen Chao had been exposed left him momentarily stunned. His eyes flicked to Hua Cheng again, trying to make sense of it all. Why had Hua Cheng dueled for him? Why had he gone to such lengths?

Meanwhile, Hua Cheng remained standing, his expression unreadable and his silence heavy. 

“Wen Chao,” Mage Wei spoke up now, her sharp voice cutting through the tension, “you are not only guilty of initiating the duel but also of cruelty toward your fellow students. This does not reflect well on your character. However, the duel itself remains a serious breach of academy rules.”

She turned her gaze toward Hua Cheng. “You, Hua Cheng, broke a fundamental rule by engaging in the duel. Do you understand the consequences of this?”

Hua Cheng lifted his chin, eyes defiant. “Yes.”

“And you do not regret your actions?” Mage Wei pressed, her voice cold.

“No,” Hua Cheng replied evenly, his voice unwavering. “I do not.”

The room went still. Even Xie Lian felt a chill at the finality in Hua Cheng’s voice. He couldn’t believe how stubborn Hua Cheng was being—didn’t he understand how dangerous this situation had become?

The professors exchanged glances, their expressions grim. Mage Zhou, the quietest of the three, finally spoke, his voice like the rustling of ancient parchment. “Expulsion is the only appropriate consequence for such an unrepentant violation of our rules.”

Xie Lian’s heart lurched at the word. Expulsion? He could feel the words bubbling up inside him, the need to defend Hua Cheng, to explain. Before he could stop himself, Xie Lian stood abruptly from his seat.

“Wait!” he blurted out, his voice trembling slightly but resolute. “Please... you can’t expel him.”

All eyes turned to him, including Hua Cheng’s, who stared at Xie Lian with a faint trace of surprise.

“He... he wasn’t doing it just to break the rules,” Xie Lian continued, his words tumbling out in a rush. “Hua Cheng probably felt like he had to help me. I—I didn’t ask him to fight, but... I’ve been feeling so helpless lately, and I think maybe he saw that.”

Xie Lian’s heart pounded in his chest as the words spilled out. He couldn’t believe he was saying all of this in front of the council, but the thought of Hua Cheng being expelled because of him was unbearable.

The room was silent for a long moment as the professors absorbed Xie Lian’s words. Mage Li’s expression softened slightly, though his eyes remained critical.

“You are suggesting, then, that Hua Cheng acted on your behalf out of a sense of protection?” Mage Li asked.

Xie Lian nodded, though his cheeks burned with embarrassment. “Yes. I think so.”

Hua Cheng, standing behind him, said nothing, but Xie Lian could feel the weight of his gaze, the silent intensity that Hua Cheng always seemed to carry with him.

The professors exchanged glances again, murmuring quietly among themselves. Finally, Mage Wei sighed, her sharp features softening just a fraction. “This is... a complicated case. However, rules are in place for a reason.”

Mage Li's eyes swept over the room, lingering on Xie Lian and Hua Cheng before turning to Wen Chao, whose defiant posture had crumbled into a mix of fear and frustration. After a tense silence, the council’s decision was clear.

"Expulsion is the harshest punishment we can enforce, and we are reluctant to do so unless absolutely necessary," Mage Li began, his voice calm yet firm. "Given the circumstances, we believe there are other avenues to explore before resorting to such extreme measures."

Mage Wei leaned forward, her sharp eyes locking onto Hua Cheng. "Hua Cheng, your actions, though driven by what seems to be a desire to protect Xie Lian, still broke academy rules. Fighting in a duel, especially on school grounds, cannot be tolerated. We cannot simply overlook this violation. However," she glanced briefly at Xie Lian, "we acknowledge the extenuating circumstances Xie Lian has brought to our attention."

Mage Zhou, who had remained quiet for most of the proceedings, spoke in his low, deliberate tone. "We have decided that you, Hua Cheng, and Xie Lian, must face the consequences together. Both of you will serve detention for the next month, during which time you will work on a restorative project assigned by the academy. You will learn not only discipline, but also how to work together in constructive ways."

Xie Lian blinked in surprise. Detention—together? His mind spun with conflicting emotions. Hua Cheng, however, didn’t flinch at the verdict. His red eyes remained focused on the council. If he was disappointed or relieved, he showed no sign of it.

"And as for you, Wen Chao," Mage Wei continued, her voice icy. "Your lies and cruelty are unacceptable. You will be spared expulsion as well, but you will be given a separate punishment. For the next two months, you will participate in a special project for problematic students, offering help to non-magical citizens. This project is designed to remind you of the humility and responsibility that come with the power you so carelessly wield."

Wen Chao's face twisted in horror. "What? You can't be serious! Helping non-magical people? That’s—"

"That’s the consequence of your actions," Mage Li cut him off, his voice as cold as stone. "You have shown a lack of respect for your fellow students and for those less fortunate than you. Perhaps working with those outside the magical community will teach you a lesson in humility."

Wen Chao opened his mouth to protest further, but Mage Zhou raised a hand, silencing him. "This is not a debate, Wen Chao. You will either complete this project or face more severe consequences."

Wen Chao’s shoulders slumped in defeat, his face red with humiliation and anger, but he said nothing more. He knew there was no point in arguing now.

Xie Lian, still trying to process everything that had just been decided, glanced at Hua Cheng out of the corner of his eye. Hua Cheng had remained silent throughout the entire proceeding, showing no reaction to the punishment. Xie Lian, however, couldn’t help but feel guilty. He had tried to stop the council from punishing Hua Cheng, but now they would both be stuck in detention for a month.

"Detention will begin tomorrow morning," Mage Li announced, rising from his seat. "You will report to Professor Yin for further instructions. As for Wen Chao, your assignment will be given to you later this afternoon."

The council stood as one, signaling the end of the session. The students slowly rose from their seats. Wen Chao shot a venomous glare at Xie Lian and Hua Cheng before storming out of the office, his robes billowing behind him.

Xie Lian watched him go, the knot in his stomach tightening. He hated the idea of detention, especially when it felt like he was dragging Hua Cheng into it because of his own weakness. But as he turned toward Hua Cheng, hoping to say something—anything to break the silence—he was met with that same unreadable expression.

Before Xie Lian could speak, Hua Cheng gave a slight nod to the council members and walked toward the door without a word, his red robe flowing behind him like a trail of fire. Xie Lian found himself staring after him, feeling flustered and confused all over again.

“Hua Cheng—wait,” he called, following him into the corridor. But Hua Cheng didn’t stop. He merely paused for a brief moment, turning his head slightly to glance at Xie Lian over his shoulder.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, in detention,” Hua Cheng said softly. And with that, he disappeared down the hall.

The next morning came too quickly for Xie Lian’s liking. He stood nervously outside the detention room, smoothing down the front of his robes for the third time. He could hear voices from inside, and his anxiety spiked. He hadn't expected to be here today, of all places—punished for something Hua Cheng had done, even though Hua Cheng had done it for him. Taking a deep breath, Xie Lian pushed the door open and stepped inside.

To his surprise, the first person he saw wasn’t Hua Cheng, but Lan Wangji, seated stiffly at the supervisor's desk at the front of the room, his expression as stoic as ever. Beside him, however, was someone Xie Lian hadn’t expected to see—Wei Wuxian, sprawled lazily across his chair, grinning from ear to ear as if detention were the highlight of his day.

Xie Lian blinked in confusion as he approached them. "Wei Wuxian? What are you doing here?"

Wei Wuxian flashed him a mischievous smile. "Ah, you know me. I'm always getting into trouble. This time, I made sure it was on purpose, so I could be here with Lan Zhan."

Lan Wangji, sitting upright and proper as always, shot Wei Wuxian an austere look, his golden eyes narrowed in disapproval. He didn’t say anything, but the reprimand was clear.

Xie Lian half-expected a lecture to follow, but Wei Wuxian just laughed, clearly unfazed by the silent scolding. "Don’t look at me like that, Lan Zhan," Wei Wuxian said teasingly, leaning back in his chair. "Admit it—you wanted me here. It would be far too boring without me."

Lan Wangji’s lips pressed into a tight line, his fingers twitching as if resisting the urge to do something. His expression remained unreadable, but Xie Lian could see a hint of exasperation behind his eyes. Wei Wuxian, clearly enjoying the attention, merely leaned back further, his laughter echoing through the room. Xie Lian couldn’t help but feel a little out of place, unsure of what to say. The dynamic between Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian was so... intense, in its own unique way. He stood awkwardly by their side, wondering if Wei Wuxian’s antics would land him in more trouble than he was already in.

Before Lan Wangji could scold Wei Wuxian—or perhaps worse, ignore him entirely—the door creaked open, and the room fell into an immediate hush. Hua Cheng entered the room with his usual calm confidence, his eyes scanning the room briefly before settling on Xie Lian.

Xie Lian felt his heart jumping in his chest. Even now, he could feel the heat rising to his face as Hua Cheng stepped further into the room, his presence commanding without needing to say a word.

Lan Wangji, maintaining his strict, composed demeanor, addressed them all. "Today, your task is to restore a magical artifact—a mirror that has been broken for years."

He gestured toward the far side of the room, where a large, ornate mirror sat on a pedestal, its glass shattered into several jagged pieces. The frame was made of intricately carved gold, swirling with ancient symbols that seemed to pulse faintly with a dull, dormant magic.

"The magic within this mirror is powerful," Lan Wangji continued, his voice steady and authoritative. "It is a relic from an older time, and its restoration requires precision and focus. The spells used to repair it are delicate, and any mistake could cause irreversible damage."

Xie Lian looked at the mirror with curiosity. He had never worked with an artifact this old or fragile before. Hua Cheng, however, appeared entirely unfazed, his gaze fixed on the shattered glass with quiet intensity.

"Of course," Wei Wuxian chimed in, grinning as he inspected the mirror from a distance, "it would be a lot easier if we could just replace the enchanted glass. But where’s the fun in that, right, Lan Zhan?"

Lan Wangji gave him another stern look, though it was clear from his slightly furrowed brow that he wasn’t entirely pleased with the comment. Wei Wuxian, as usual, shrugged it off with a chuckle.

"Wei Ying," Lan Wangji finally spoke, his voice low and filled with a quiet reprimand. "Don't make me call the inspectors."

Wei Wuxian flashed him an innocent smile but the tone of his voice was sarcastic ."Oh, no! Not the inspectors... The inspectors aren't as pleasant to look at as First Student of Honour Lan Wangji."

Lan Wangji’s stern expression didn’t falter, though Xie Lian could have sworn he saw the slightest twitch in his jaw, as if he were trying very hard not to respond.

Suddenly, from the other side of the room, Hua Cheng gave a small snort, a quiet, amused sound that caught everyone’s attention. He glanced at Wei Wuxian, an amused gleam in his eyes.

"Well," Hua Cheng said, his voice low but carrying a hint of dry humor, "someone is direct."

His comment cut through the tension like a knife, and for a moment, Xie Lian blinked in surprise. He wasn’t sure what was more shocking—the fact that Hua Cheng had laughed, or that he had commented on Wei Wuxian’s relentless teasing.

Wei Wuxian turned toward Hua Cheng with a broad grin, as if he’d just found a kindred spirit. "Ah, see? Someone appreciates my directness. You're a man of good taste, Hua Cheng."

Hua Cheng gave a slight shrug, his lips still curved into a faint smirk. "It's certainly... effective," he said, casting a sidelong glance at Lan Wangji, who remained stoic but whose ears had turned the faintest shade of pink.

The air in the room lightened, the heaviness from earlier beginning to dissipate.

Xie Lian felt a bit more at ease. He moved closer to Hua Cheng, trying to gauge his reaction to the task ahead. 

Lan Wangji handed each of them a set of ancient spell scrolls, detailing the restoration process. "You will work together to repair the mirror. The magic is complex, and you will need to be in sync for it to work properly."

Wei Wuxian unfolded his scroll with a theatrical sigh. "Restoring ancient magical mirrors wasn’t exactly what I had in mind for today, but since Lan Zhan asked so nicely, I suppose I’ll help."

Lan Wangji shot him a warning look, and Wei Wuxian raised his hands in surrender. "Fine, fine. I’m serious. I’ll help."

Despite the tension between them, there was a sense of familiarity and understanding that seemed to run deeper than words. It was strange, but in some ways, comforting.

As the group moved to the mirror, Xie Lian found himself standing beside Hua Cheng. He cleared his throat, glancing up at him. "Have you... ever restored something like this before?" Hua Cheng’s gaze remained on the shattered glass, but there was a faint smirk on his lips. "No. But I learn quickly."

Lan Wangji stood at the head of the room, his hands folded neatly behind his back as he surveyed the other students. His gaze was calm and serious as always, and he gestured toward the broken magical mirror, its shattered fragments strewn across the table.

"You have to ensure every piece is placed correctly. Like a puzzle, each shard has a specific place, and only when it’s properly aligned will the mirror's magic return to full strength."

Wei Wuxian stared at the table for a long moment before throwing his hands up dramatically. "You are kidding me, right? This is insane!" he exclaimed, eyeing the scattered fragments with a mix of frustration and disbelief. "There are hundreds of pieces! Do you really expect us to just... figure out where each one goes?"

Lan Wangji gave Wei Wuxian an unimpressed look, his tone unwavering. "This is the task. If it seems difficult, then you should focus."

Wei Wuxian groaned, muttering something about "impossible" under his breath, while Lan Wangji returned his focus to supervising the task. Meanwhile, Xie Lian, always the one to approach things calmly, examined the pieces carefully. Unlike Wei Wuxian, who was clearly dreading the assignment, Xie Lian found some comfort in the challenge.

He picked up a small shard of glass, inspecting the faint magical inscriptions etched onto its surface. The lines of the enchantments were delicate, but they told a story—one that would help him determine where each piece fit. He smiled to himself, feeling oddly at peace with the process.

While the others stood around, still unsure of how to begin, Xie Lian quietly started working. His hands moved with precision as he carefully placed each piece in its proper place, aligning the magic within the shards with patient, deliberate movements. It wasn’t long before he made noticeable progress, sections of the mirror slowly beginning to take shape.

Wei Wuxian, having tried to haphazardly place a few pieces himself, stopped and blinked at Xie Lian's progress. "Whoa... How are you doing that?" he asked, his tone full of amazement. "I barely know where to start, and you’re practically rebuilding the thing."

Xie Lian offered a modest smile, not wanting to make a big deal out of it. "I just have a knack for puzzles, I guess. It’s all about patience and reading the patterns in the magic."

Wei Wuxian huffed and leaned back in his chair, staring at the shards. "Maybe I should leave this to you, then."

As Xie Lian continued working, his focus entirely on the mirror, Hua Cheng, who had been silently observing, leaned closer to him. His voice was low, barely above a whisper, and laced with something mischievous.

"You’re very good with your hands, I see," Hua Cheng said softly, his eyes glinting with amusement.

The comment hit Xie Lian like a lightning bolt. His hand froze mid-movement and he didn’t dare look up at Hua Cheng. He could feel his face quickly turning a bright shade of red. The unexpected compliment—and the way Hua Cheng had said it—sent his thoughts spiraling, making it hard to focus on the task at hand.

Xie Lian swallowed, his fingers suddenly trembling slightly as he placed another piece of glass into the mirror’s frame. "Th-thank you," he managed to stammer, his voice barely audible. His mind raced, flustered by Hua Cheng’s proximity and the tone of his words. He could feel Hua Cheng’s gaze lingering on his hands, which only made his heart pound even harder.

Trying to regain his composure, Xie Lian concentrated harder on the mirror, his hands still working with precision but his mind now completely distracted by Hua Cheng’s presence. 

Despite his flustered state, Xie Lian continued to make significant progress. Piece by piece, the mirror began to take shape, its magical glow slowly returning as more shards found their rightful places. The intricate patterns in the glass shimmered, responding to the magic being restored.

Lan Wangji glanced over Xie Lian’s work and gave a small nod of approval. "Good work," he said, his tone neutral but appreciative.

Chapter Text

The academy was buzzing with excitement as the day of the highly anticipated magic field trip approached. Students darted through the corridors, their robes billowing behind them as they hurried to pack their bags, collect last-minute items, and chatter eagerly about the upcoming adventure. The field trip was no ordinary outing—this was a rare chance to visit a place known as the Celestial Valley, a mystical landscape said to be filled with ancient magic, towering crystal formations, and legendary creatures that could only be glimpsed by those with the purest of intent.

The Celestial Valley had been the topic of hushed conversations for weeks. The professors had finally granted permission for the students to visit its sacred grounds to study rare magical phenomena and practice their spellwork in a live, enchanted environment. Word had it that the valley was also home to an elusive library of spells, hidden deep within the misty forest, waiting to be discovered by the sharpest minds.

Mu Qing and Feng Xin, like many others, could barely contain their excitement. Feng Xin rushed around the dormitory, stuffing items haphazardly into his bag while Mu Qing meticulously packed his own, taking great care to organize his spell scrolls, charms, and potions with precise order.

"Do you think we'll really get to see a stardust phoenix in the valley?" Feng Xin asked, his eyes wide with anticipation as he stuffed an extra cloak into his bag. "I heard they only appear during certain magical shifts. It would be incredible if we could study one up close!"

Mu Qing, who was folding a set of robes with clinical precision, raised an eyebrow. "If you don't manage to scare it away with your loud footsteps, maybe," he replied dryly, though there was an undeniable glint of excitement in his eyes. "The real challenge will be exploring the spell library. It's said to be protected by a series of illusions and puzzles."

"Yeah, yeah, you're always about the books," Feng Xin laughed, "but I'm going to be keeping an eye out for creatures and magical artifacts. I've been reading up on the valley—apparently, the rivers there glow with a kind of moonlight essence that enhances your spellcasting abilities."

Xie Lian, sitting at the window of their shared dorm, couldn't help but listen as his friends chattered away, their excitement contagious. But his heart sank a little deeper each time they mentioned the wonders awaiting them on the trip. He wouldn’t be going. Because of the duel Hua Cheng had initiated, both he and Hua Cheng were grounded, forbidden from joining the other students. The punishment, though expected, felt harsh now that the reality of missing out was settling in.

Feng Xin noticed the quiet look on Xie Lian's face and immediately stopped what he was doing, crossing the room to crouch beside him. "Hey, don’t look so down. We’ll bring you back every magical souvenir we can find," he said with a grin. "And all the sweets from the valley too! I hear they make these pastries infused with celestial herbs that can boost your energy for days."

"Exactly," Mu Qing added, approaching with a more measured tone. "Next time, you’ll come with us. There’s always another trip, and we’ll all go together then."

Xie Lian smiled faintly at their efforts to cheer him up, grateful for their kindness. "Thank you, really," he said softly. "It’s just… I was really looking forward to this trip. The Celestial Valley is such a rare place to visit."

"We know," Feng Xin said, clapping Xie Lian on the shoulder. "But you’re not going to miss out forever. Besides, while we're gone, you'll have the entire academy to yourself! Think of all the quiet places to explore."

Mu Qing nodded. "And remember, we’ll make sure you don’t miss anything important. We’ll bring back enough stories and findings to fill an entire notebook."

As the time for departure neared, Xie Lian stood by the window, watching as students gathered in the main courtyard. Groups of students in their colored robes, representing different magical factions, bustled about, their voices a lively chorus of excitement. In the center of the courtyard, Lan Wangji, who had been appointed as the group leader of the Crimson Phoenixes for the trip, stood tall and composed, overseeing the students' preparations with his usual air of authority. 

Wei Wuxian, on the other hand, was anything but composed. He was already bouncing around Lan Wangji, teasing him mercilessly, trying to provoke even the slightest reaction. Xie Lian could see him waving his arms animatedly, laughing as he leaned in close to Lan Wangji’s ear, probably whispering some mischievous remark. Lan Wangji, predictably, looked entirely unimpressed, his expression stony.

Despite his earlier sadness, Xie Lian couldn't help but laugh. The sight of Wei Wuxian trying—and failing—to ruffle Lan Wangji's feathers was always entertaining, and for a brief moment, Xie Lian forgot his disappointment.

After a few more minutes of watching the courtyard, Xie Lian turned away from the window. With everyone else leaving for the trip, the academy would be unusually quiet. He decided he would take advantage of this rare opportunity to visit one of his favorite places: the academy’s star-gazing tower.

The tower, usually bustling with students and scholars, would now be empty. Although it was morning and the stars wouldn’t be visible, the moon still lingered in the sky, casting a pale glow over the world. Xie Lian had always found peace in the quiet of the tower, and with everyone gone, it would be the perfect place to clear his mind.

The star-gazing tower was an impressive structure, rising high above the academy grounds. It was made of smooth, pale stone, with intricate carvings of constellations and celestial beings etched into its surface. Inside, the tower spiraled upward, its walls lined with shelves full of star charts, ancient scrolls, and magical instruments used to track the movements of the heavens.

Xie Lian ascended the winding staircase, his footsteps echoing softly in the quiet space. When he reached the top, he was greeted by a circular chamber with large, open windows that offered a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The air was cool and fresh, carrying the scent of morning dew.

In the center of the chamber stood a large, enchanted telescope that allowed students to peer into the cosmos. The walls were adorned with glowing orbs that represented the stars, and around the room were tables scattered with celestial maps, ancient texts, and magical tools. Near the entrance, a small table was laden with snacks—magic moon cakes and star-shaped biscuits, treats that were always left for students who spent their nights studying the skies.

Xie Lian took a seat by one of the open windows, gazing out at the distant horizon where the last traces of moonlight lingered. He reached for one of the moon cakes, savoring its sweet, delicate flavor as he flipped through a book on celestial magic that had been left on the table.

The peace of the moment calmed his earlier frustration, and for a while, Xie Lian allowed himself to simply enjoy the solitude. He played with some of the magical tools, adjusting the telescope and aligning star maps with constellations, despite the fact that it was daytime. The tower felt like a sanctuary, a quiet refuge where time seemed to slow down.

As he ate another star-shaped biscuit, he let out a quiet sigh, content in the peacefulness of the morning. Though he would have preferred to join his friends on their adventure, there was something comforting about being in the star-gazing tower alone, surrounded by the quiet hum of ancient magic and the soft glow of the stars' memory.

Xie Lian picked up a delicate magical telescope from the nearby table. The device was small enough to fit in the palm of his hand but powerful, designed to view not only the stars but also the magical auras surrounding celestial bodies. Even though the stars were no longer visible, the moon still hung in the sky, faint but present. He turned the telescope towards it, adjusting the focus with a soft click.

As he peered through the lens, the moon appeared closer, its silvery surface now tinged with hues of blue and violet, the magical auras swirling around it like mist. He marveled at how the enchantments captured the ethereal energy, watching as the colors shifted and danced in slow, mesmerizing patterns. For a moment, Xie Lian forgot about everything—the field trip, his grounding, the duel. All that existed was the beauty of the moon, its aura a serene and ancient presence.

Lost in thought, he slowly set the telescope down on the table and leaned back, letting out a quiet sigh. But as soon as he turned his head, he jumped startled.

Hua Cheng was sitting right next to him.

He hadn’t even heard Hua Cheng approach, much less sit down beside him. The student was leaning casually against the low wall of the tower, his arm draped over one knee, and a small, amused smile curled at his lips.

"I didn’t mean to scare you," Hua Cheng said softly, his tone warm with a touch of amusement. "My apologies."

Xie Lian blinked, his pulse racing from the surprise. "When did you…?" His voice trailed off as he tried to calm himself, pressing a hand to his chest.

Hua Cheng chuckled, his eye gleaming mischievously. "Just now. I saw you from the courtyard and figured I’d join you. Seems like we’re the only ones left, after all."

Chapter Text

The tower was quiet and bathed in soft daylight, the remnants of the morning casting a gentle glow over the celestial maps and magic tools scattered across the tables. Xie Lian and Hua Cheng sat side by side, surrounded by the ancient instruments of stargazing, each enchanted and humming softly with dormant power. Xie Lian felt the warmth of Hua Cheng’s presence beside him, a constant and steady aura amidst the stillness of the empty tower.

Hua Cheng leaned over a celestial map, tracing his fingers along a cluster of stars. "These constellations always looked like ordinary points of light to me," he admitted, a small smile at the corner of his lips. "I never had the patience for all the instruments and calculations."

Xie Lian chuckled softly, reaching for a silver-tipped pointer wand. "It’s not so complicated once you get the hang of it," he said, holding the wand out to Hua Cheng. "Would you like me to show you?"

Hua Cheng’s eye brightened with interest. "If you don’t mind."

As Hua Cheng took the wand, Xie Lian reached out, guiding his hand. Their fingers brushed, and a warm, unexpected thrill ran up Xie Lian’s spine. Clearing his throat, he leaned closer, trying to focus on the explanation he was giving.

"So, here," Xie Lian said, steadying Hua Cheng’s hand, "if you trace the wand over this cluster, it illuminates the constellation. You see those stars there? They form the shape of a dragon’s wing."

Hua Cheng tilted his head, his gaze fixed on the glowing stars that came to life beneath his touch. Xie Lian realized that he was now close enough to catch the faint scent of Hua Cheng’s magic, warm and a little like smoke, tinged with something richer and ancient.

"I see it," Hua Cheng murmured, a hint of awe in his voice. "It’s beautiful. But not as beautiful as..." He glanced at Xie Lian, his gaze lingering for a moment longer than necessary.

Xie Lian felt a flush creeping up his cheeks. He quickly looked away, his fingers still resting over Hua Cheng’s hand. "There’s a way to reveal the entire constellation too, as long as you channel just a little magic into the wand. Watch, I’ll guide you."

Their hands moved in tandem, and Xie Lian focused his own magic into the wand, showing Hua Cheng how to channel his energy. Together, they sketched delicate lines of light that connected the stars, forming an intricate tapestry of glowing constellations. Each point shimmered, their lights forming patterns that seemed to pulse in time with their shared breaths.

They were so close, their fingers still touching as they worked. Then, without warning, Xie Lian felt a strange, soft tug in his mind—almost like a whisper. It was a vision, something his divination abilities had granted him before, but rarely in a moment like this.

In the vision, he and Hua Cheng were seated at a quiet, peaceful fountain in the village near the academy. The fountain was shimmering with magical light, water dancing in silvery arcs, and students strolled by with stacks of books and cups of fragrant tea. They were sharing a box of magic sweets, each candy a different vibrant color, their hands brushing as they picked them up one by one.

Xie Lian blinked, his gaze distant as the vision faded. He looked back at Hua Cheng, his heart pounding in a new rhythm. "I just had… a vision," he said quietly, almost as if speaking too loudly would chase it away.

Hua Cheng’s eye widened with interest. "What did you see?"

Xie Lian glanced away, feeling a little embarrassed. "We were sitting at the fountain in the village, the one where students go to study and drink tea. And we were… sharing sweets, from a colorful box."

Hua Cheng’s expression softened, a gentle smile spreading across his face. "That sounds… nice," he murmured, the warmth in his voice lingering as he looked at Xie Lian. 

Xie Lian found himself smiling back, their hands still resting on the wand, their fingers intertwined. "Sometimes, I think these visions come to remind me of… moments that are meant to happen, or ones that already exist in some way."

Hua Cheng’s gaze turned thoughtful, his fingers gently tightening around Xie Lian’s. "Your divination abilities really are powerful. The other students envy you."

Xie Lian laughed, though he felt a bit of a sting at the thought. "Some of them do," he admitted. "The ‘elite’ students are resentful about it. They think I only see my chaotic qi "

Hua Cheng’s eye darkened slightly. "Fools. They don’t see what’s right in front of them." His tone was fierce, protective, and Xie Lian felt his heart flutter, warmth blooming under the quiet strength of Hua Cheng’s words.

"It’s alright," Xie Lian said, smiling softly. "I don’t mind. Divination can be a lonely study, anyway. You have to accept that you’ll see things others can’t, and sometimes that makes it hard to explain yourself."

Hua Cheng’s gaze softened again, a gentle reassurance lingering in his expression. "Well, I’m glad I’m here to hear it. And to share whatever visions you see."

They sat in silence for a moment, the wand still glowing with faint starlight between their hands. Xie Lian watched the faintly illuminated constellations, comforted by the warmth of Hua Cheng’s presence beside him.

After a pause, Hua Cheng glanced up at the glowing stars, a pensive look crossing his face. "I don't know many technical things about starts. But I know the stories. Did you know," he said, his voice a murmur, "that those two bright stars in the east, just before dawn, are the remains of two ancient souls?"

Xie Lian looked up, intrigued. "No, I didn’t. What’s the story behind them?"

"They say there was once a powerful wizard," Hua Cheng began, his voice as soft as the light surrounding them, "who fell in love with someone he was forbidden to be with. But he didn’t care about the rules, or about who tried to keep them apart. He just wanted to protect the person he loved."

Xie Lian listened, captivated, his gaze never leaving Hua Cheng’s face.

"They say they fought side by side in the last great battle of their time. And when they died… they chose to stay together, even beyond death. Now, they’re the two brightest stars in the sky at dawn. When I see them, I think it’s… a promise they made, one that even death couldn’t break."

Xie Lian’s heart ached with a deep, quiet admiration. "That’s… so sad and beautiful."

Hua Cheng’s eye lingered on Xie Lian, searching his face, as if he were memorizing every detail.

Their gazes met, and for a moment, it felt as if the whole world had fallen away. And then, with a soft, sudden movement, Hua Cheng leaned in and pressed his lips gently to Xie Lian’s.

Xie Lian froze, his heart racing, a thousand thoughts flashing through his mind. His first instinct was to pull back, and he did so just a little, looking at Hua Cheng with wide eyes. He knew relationships between students were forbidden—strictly so. The academy had set those rules to keep students focused on their studies, to prevent the so-called distractions that love could bring.

But as Xie Lian looked at Hua Cheng, the weight of that rule seemed to fade. He couldn’t deny the way his heart beat faster, or the way his breath felt stolen from his lungs. He couldn’t deny the way his whole being seemed drawn to Hua Cheng.

💞

Xie Lian walked briskly down the corridor toward the Crimson Phoenixes’ common room, his mind still spinning, his heart fluttering from the kiss he and Hua Cheng had just shared. The memory of it was so vivid that he could almost feel Hua Cheng’s warmth still lingering at his lips. It had been forbidden, impulsive, and absolutely wonderful. His cheeks were flushed, and he could barely keep a dreamy smile from his face.

He rounded the final corner to the common room and froze in place.

Leaning casually against the wall beside the door was Wen Chao, arms crossed, a smug expression playing across his face as he watched Xie Lian approach. He was blocking the entrance, clearly waiting for him.

Xie Lian immediately felt his good mood fade. Wen Chao, with his sharp eyes and perpetual smirk, was the last person he wanted to encounter right now. Xie Lian tried to step past him without making eye contact, hoping to slip by unnoticed.

But Wen Chao’s hand shot out, pressing firmly against Xie Lian’s chest, stopping him in his tracks.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk. No manners at all?” Wen Chao sneered, looking Xie Lian up and down as if assessing him. “You don’t greet your fellow students?”

Xie Lian took a deep breath, forcing himself to keep calm. “What do you want, Wen Chao?”

A glint of something malicious flickered in Wen Chao’s eyes. “Well,” he said, drawing the word out slowly, “everyone else is off on the field trip, right? I was supposed to be there too, but I was grounded. Because of you. Because of you and Hua Cheng.”

Xie Lian took a steadying breath, his heart pounding as he looked Wen Chao in the eye. "Do you see the irony in all this?" he asked, voice low but steady. "You could have gone to the field trip too, you know. All you had to do was refrain from threatening me, burning my hair, and dueling with Hua Cheng."

Wen Chao’s smirk faltered for a split second, replaced by a flash of irritation. But he quickly covered it up, shrugging nonchalantly.

“Oh, don’t worry. I’ve been finding ways to pass the time,” he continued, a smirk tugging at his mouth again. “In fact, I was exploring the academy earlier, looking for hidden spots and…well, let’s just say I stumbled upon something interesting.”

A prickle of unease crept into Xie Lian’s chest, but he kept his expression indifferent. “And? Why do you feel the need to tell me?”

Wen Chao’s eyes lit up as he leaned in, clearly savoring Xie Lian’s discomfort. “Oh, just thought you'll like to know I saw Hua Cheng. Kissing you.”

Xie Lian’s heart dropped. His body went rigid as a wave of shock and panic surged through him. How could Wen Chao have seen them? They’d been alone—Xie Lian had been so sure of it. His mind raced, anxiety clawing at him as he fought to keep his face calm.

Wen Chao watched him with a look of malicious delight. “Well, well, well,” he drawled, clearly enjoying himself. “A scandal between students…how inappropriate.” He cocked his head, his voice dripping with mock innocence. “It would be such a shame if someone told the teachers, wouldn’t it? They’d have to expel you both for something like this.”

Xie Lian swallowed hard, trying to keep his voice steady, but he knew his fear must be showing. "Why are you telling me this? What do you want?"

Wen Chao gave him a mocking pat on the shoulder, clearly relishing the power he held over him. “I’ll let you know if I need a favor. Until then…sleep well.”

With that, he turned and strolled down the corridor, humming a cheerful tune as if he hadn’t just thrown Xie Lian’s entire world into chaos.

Xie Lian watched him go, feeling his stomach twist with dread.

Chapter Text

Xie Lian sat at his desk in the divination classroom, surrounded by the familiar hum of chatter as students settled in. The large, sunlit windows cast warm rays over rows of ancient books, enchanted charts, and polished crystals scattered on the shelves lining the walls. He tried to focus on the lively conversation between Mu Qing and Feng Xin, who were eagerly showing him small trinkets they’d brought back from the Celestial Valley. Mu Qing held up a delicate vial filled with shimmering stardust, while Feng Xin showed off a charm shaped like a tiny crescent moon.

“Look, they say this dust boosts your spell focus,” Mu Qing said, clearly proud of his find. “They were selling it at a secluded stall just outside the valley.”

“And this!” Feng Xin added, holding up the charm proudly. “It’s supposed to enhance your strength in combat magic.”

Xie Lian forced a smile as he examined their trinkets, murmuring a few words of admiration. But his attention drifted, his gaze wandering to the far side of the room where Wen Chao was sitting with the elite students. Wen Chao noticed him looking and returned his gaze with a sharp, appraising glint in his eyes, before turning back to his group, whispering something to his friends. They chuckled, casting sidelong glances in Xie Lian’s direction, the smirks on their faces enough to make his stomach twist.

Wen Chao's presence was a heavy reminder of what was to come.

Xie Lian knew he was going to be transferred to their group soon—it was only a matter of time. He had seen it, as clearly as he’d ever seen any premonition, the scene of himself sitting among the elite students instead of with Mu Qing and Feng Xin. They had been his friends since his first days at the academy, and now, he was on the verge of being separated from them. The thought weighed heavily on him, a mix of sorrow and unease settling in his chest.

“Hey, Xie Lian,” Feng Xin’s voice brought him back to the present. “Are you alright? You’ve been kind of…distant.”

Xie Lian snapped back to attention, blinking. “Ah, sorry, Feng Xin. I’m just… thinking about the upcoming changes.”

Mu Qing gave him a thoughtful look. “You’re talking about the transfer to the elite group, aren’t you?”

Xie Lian nodded, his voice soft. “Yes. It feels…strange. I’m going to miss sitting with you two.”

Feng Xin tried to brush it off, giving him a friendly nudge. “Hey, don’t worry! We’ll still see each other around and we'll be together in all the other classes. Plus, think of all the powerful divination techniques you’ll be learning.”

Xie Lian smiled, though the sadness lingered in his gaze. “I know. I’ll try to see it that way.”

Just then, the professor entered the room, and the students quieted down, turning their attention to the front of the classroom. The professor raised his hands. He muttered a spell, and the marble board behind him began to glow, intricate diagrams of constellations and divination symbols forming in the air. Symbols and lines floated, shifting as he explained the principles of celestial influence and their effects on foresight spells. Xie Lian tried to focus, taking notes diligently.

After a few minutes, the professor assigned them an extensive set of theoretical group exercises, most of which were notoriously tedious and required hours of reading and analysis. There were sighs and groans around the room as the students began to dig into the piles of parchment and books the professor had provided.

Just as Xie Lian opened a heavy tome and began flipping through the ancient, ink-stained pages, he noticed a fluttering in his peripheral vision. A small paper bird—folded intricately and glowing faintly with magic—was gliding across the room. It landed delicately on his desk and unfolded itself with a soft rustle. Curious, Xie Lian picked it up, only to feel a chill run through him as he read the words scrawled in neat, sharp handwriting:

"You’ll do those exercises for us, right?"

He looked up, his pulse quickening. Across the room, Wen Chao and the elite students were watching him with satisfied, knowing smirks. Wen Chao raised an eyebrow, as if daring Xie Lian to protest.

Trying not to let his expression betray his emotions, he looked back down at the page in front of him. What could he do? Refusing their demands outright would likely lead to further trouble, and Wen Chao’s threat from the previous day still hung over him.

He picked up his quill and pretended to jot down notes, though his hand was trembling slightly. He knew he was strong enough to stand up to them if he truly had to. But if he pushed too hard, they’d only escalate things. The thought of them spreading rumors, or worse…reporting his secret connection with Hua Cheng was too risky to ignore.

Later, Xie Lian, Mu Qing, and Feng Xin were tucked away in one of the quiet corners of the academy’s vast library, surrounded by shelves lined with ancient texts and spell books. They were working on their divination group assignment. Xie Lian sat slumped, his face clouded with worry as he mindlessly traced patterns on the table’s surface.

Mu Qing, sitting across from him, had been watching him closely for the past few minutes. “Xie Lian,” he finally spoke, his tone quiet but pointed. “You look miserable. What's wrong?”

Xie Lian lifted his head slightly, offering a faint smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “It’s nothing, really. I don’t want to bother you two with my problems.”

Feng Xin leaned over the table, frowning. “Come on, Xie Lian. We’re friends. You can tell us anything. If something’s bothering you, we want to know.”

Xie Lian hesitated, his gaze shifting between his friends. He took a deep breath, feeling a small sense of relief at their support but still uncertain how much he should reveal. “I will tell you,” he said slowly, choosing his words carefully, “but I’m… not ready to explain everything yet. The only thing you need to know for now is that Wen Chao has been blackmailing me.”

Mu Qing and Feng Xin exchanged quick glances, their expressions hardening with concern. Xie Lian looked down, fingers tightening around the edge of the table. “And… he’s asked me to do the homework for his group.”

The moment he said it, Feng Xin’s face darkened. “That little—” He clenched his fists, his jaw set in anger. “If he thinks he can get away with this—maybe we should just beat the elite students up. They’re nothing but arrogant bullies anyway.”

Mu Qing immediately placed a hand on Feng Xin’s arm, a hint of exasperation in his eyes. “Don’t pull a ‘Hua Cheng,’ Feng Xin. We all saw where that led. Fighting them will only bring Xie Lian more trouble.”

Feng Xin scowled, but he relaxed a little, crossing his arms. “Fine. But I’m not just going to sit back while they treat him like this.”

“Well, you don’t have to.” Mu Qing smirked, an idea already forming in his mind. “Maybe there’s another way to make this work in Xie Lian’s favor.”

Xie Lian looked up, curious. “What do you mean?”

Mu Qing looked at Feng Xin, raising a brow. “Didn’t you mention once that there was a technique your mother taught you? Something about making certain parts of a text visible only to specific people?”

Feng Xin’s eyes lit up. “Oh… you mean selective enchantments on the text? Right! Certain words would only appear visible to specific people.”

Xie Lian tilted his head, intrigued but unsure. “How would that help?”

Mu Qing leaned forward eagerly, a plan starting to take shape. “It’s simple. You go along with Wen Chao’s request and do the exercises for their group. But use the enchantment so only the professor can see the full answers. Make it a flawless, detailed job—every answer perfect. But the elites will only be able to see a simplified version, just enough to give them false confidence. They’ll memorize what they see, thinking they’re prepared.”

Feng Xin's expression grew sharp with approval. “Exactly. I’ve heard that our divination professor is particularly strict and fair. He’ll be able to tell when someone’s not genuinely done their own work. And I’ve heard he’s planning to ask everyone questions about the material. If Wen Chao and his friends try to pass your work off as their own, they’ll be in big trouble when they can’t explain any of it.”

Xie Lian’s eyes widened as he processed their plan, a glimmer of hope sparking in him for the first time. “So… you’re saying I should give them exactly what they asked for, but in a way that reveals the truth when they’re questioned?”

Mu Qing grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “Precisely. Let them think they’re clever, let them think they’ve got you under their thumb… and then watch it all fall apart when they can’t answer a single question.”

Xie Lian couldn’t help but smile. For the first time in days, he felt a small thrill of relief. “Thank you, both of you. This… might actually work. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Feng Xin clapped him on the shoulder. “We’ve got your back.”

Mu Qing nodded, his expression softening. “Just follow the plan. Be thorough in your work, and let the enchantment do the rest. The professor is too smart to be fooled by Wen Chao and his friends’ act.”

Over the next few days, Xie Lian put their plan into action. He poured over the exercises, carefully crafting each answer with meticulous detail. Every solution was precise, filled with references to the divination symbols and celestial principles that he knew the professor valued. And, with Feng Xin’s guidance, he wove the enchantment over the pages, making it so that only the professor’s eyes could see the real work beneath the surface.

The elite students would only see the simplified version—convincing enough to memorize, but utterly useless under closer scrutiny.

On the day they were to submit their work, Wen Chao stopped him in the hall with a smirk, his friends flanking him. “Hope you did a good job, Xie Lian. Remember, this little arrangement is for your own good.”

Xie Lian met his gaze steadily, a calm smile on his face. “Of course. I wouldn’t want to disappoint you.”

Wen Chao nodded approvingly, clearly oblivious, and sauntered off, his friends laughing alongside him. Xie Lian watched them go, his heart pounding but a sense of satisfaction settling over him.

As the professor collected the assignments later that day, Xie Lian took his seat beside Feng Xin and Mu Qing, trying to appear as composed as possible. His friends offered him reassuring nods, and he allowed himself a small, hopeful smile.

The next day, the professor began calling on students, asking them to explain their answers. He started with Wen Chao’s group.

Wen Chao stood, confident as ever, clearly expecting to breeze through the questioning. “So, Mr. Wen,” the professor began, holding up the assignment. “Can you explain your answer to the third question, regarding the shift in celestial energy around the Spring Equinox?”

Wen Chao faltered, his smirk slipping. He glanced at his friends, who were equally at a loss. “Um… the Spring Equinox, right?” he stammered, scrambling to recall the simplified answers they had memorized. “Well, it’s… it has to do with, uh, the sun’s alignment, I think…”

The professor’s expression hardened. “No, that’s incorrect.” He turned to another of Wen Chao’s friends. “Perhaps you could elaborate on the role of lunar influence during this shift?”

The student, looking pale, stumbled over a half-hearted answer that was just as wrong.

As the professor continued to question them, it became painfully clear that none of them had a clue about the material. The professor’s gaze grew sharper with each wrong answer, and Wen Chao’s confidence dissolved into embarrassment, his cheeks reddening as he stammered out yet another incorrect response.

After a few more excruciating minutes, the professor finally closed the assignment with a frown. “It’s obvious that someone else did this group assignment for you,” he said coldly, looking between them. “Meet me in the professor's office after class. The whole group.”

Wen Chao and his friends slumped back into their seats, their faces a mix of anger and humiliation. Across the room, Xie Lian allowed himself a small, victorious smile, his heart swelling with gratitude for Mu Qing and Feng Xin’s clever plan.

As they left the classroom together, Feng Xin elbowed him, grinning. “Looks like that worked perfectly.”

Chapter Text

The sun hung high over the academy's enchanted playing field. The students gathered around the Green Ball arena. The atmosphere was full of energy as players from the Azure Dragons and the Golden Tigers took their positions, anticipation building in the crowd.

At the center of the arena floated the Green Ball—a mesmerizing sphere of jade that shimmered with a faint glow. Its surfaces flickered with swirling symbols, enchanted runes barely visible as they pulsed with magic. The game was simple in theory, yet deeply challenging: use spells to guide the Green Ball through an array of hoops suspended in midair. But with opposing teams vying for control, the match quickly became a fierce battle of wit, agility, and magical prowess.

Hua Cheng, dressed in the deep blue and silver uniform of the Azure Dragons, stood confidently on the field beside his teammates. His posture was relaxed, yet there was a glint in his eyes—a focused intensity that promised he would give no quarter. Beside him was Shi Qingxuan, the head of the Azure Dragons team, known not only for his skill but also for his incredible intuition, a trait that had led the team to victory in more than one difficult match. Qingxuan, with a smile that hinted at the thrill of competition, shot Hua Cheng a nod.

"Ready to make these Tigers regret showing up?" Qingxuan asked, voice light but eyes steely.

Hua Cheng’s smirk grew, his gaze fixed on the Green Ball hovering above. "I’d be disappointed if they didn’t at least try.”

On the opposite end of the field, the Golden Tigers readied themselves, their uniforms a brilliant yellow trimmed in black. Their captain, a fierce-looking student, signaled to his team, each of whom wore a look of unwavering focus. They were known for their aggressive tactics and brute force approach, a stark contrast to the Azure Dragons’ skillful precision.

The referee raised a hand, and the Green Ball whirred, rising a few inches higher. With a loud clap, the game began.

Immediately, Hua Cheng sprang into action, casting a spell that sent the Green Ball darting toward the first hoop. His magic was sharp and precise, and the Green Ball responded almost effortlessly, streaking through the air as if pulled on an invisible string. His control over the enchanted jade sphere was near perfect; it moved exactly as he directed, not even an inch wasted in the path he carved for it.

The Tigers were quick to react. Their captain cast a counterspell, a powerful push that attempted to shove the Green Ball off course. For a moment, the jade sphere wobbled, caught between the opposing forces, until Shi Qingxuan cast a stabilizing charm, reinforcing Hua Cheng's control. The ball steadied, speeding up and slipping through the first hoop with a satisfying hum.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Hua Cheng and Qingxuan exchanged a quick, determined look before focusing back on the game.

But the Golden Tigers weren’t done yet. They countered with a more aggressive spell, sending a shimmering arc of energy towards the Green Ball, which spun around it like a lasso, yanking it from the Azure Dragons' control. Hua Cheng’s eyes narrowed; he was never one to back down. He cast another spell with lightning speed, slicing through the Golden Tigers’ energy and reclaiming the ball, all in the blink of an eye.

“Nice work, Hua Cheng!” Shi Qingxuan called with an approving grin.

Hua Cheng only nodded, his focus absolute. The Green Ball was approaching the second hoop now, one that hovered higher and had a narrow opening that required precise control. The Golden Tigers’ strategy shifted; instead of trying to take control, they focused on setting up obstacles—a series of low-level magical disruptions that caused the air around the hoop to shimmer, distorting the Green Ball’s path and making it increasingly difficult to guide.

Another Azure Dragon raised a hand, muttering a quick incantation that smoothed the air, dissipating the distortions. With deft control, he navigated the ball through the hoop, scoring another point for the Azure Dragons. That made the Tigers grit their teeth.

The Tigers' captain, growing frustrated, motioned for his team to push harder. They cast a coordinated spell that created a gust of wind strong enough to buffet the Green Ball backward. The Azure Dragons combined their efforts, using shields and counterspells to keep the Green Ball on course, but it was an intense back-and-forth struggle.

Xie Lian sat in the stands, perched on the edge of his seat as the Green Ball match unfolded before him. The game was a spectacle of glowing spells and swift movements, the air alive with crackling energy as both teams fought fiercely for control of the enchanted jade sphere. Yet, Xie Lian’s attention was wholly consumed by one player in particular: Hua Cheng.

From the moment the game began, Hua Cheng had commanded the field with a grace and precision that left Xie Lian in awe. His every movement was calculated, his spells executed with such finesse that the Green Ball seemed an extension of his will. Xie Lian found himself leaning forward, his heart pounding as he watched Hua Cheng weave through the Tigers’ relentless attacks with unflinching focus.

"Wow," Xie Lian whispered to himself, his voice barely audible over the roar of the crowd. His cheeks warmed as he realized how intently he’d been staring. He quickly glanced around to see if anyone had noticed, but everyone was too engrossed in the match to pay him any mind.

As the ball darted toward the second hoop, narrowly avoiding a defensive spell from the Tigers, Xie Lian’s breath hitched. Hua Cheng cast a stabilizing charm, his hand raised with effortless confidence, and the ball surged forward, slipping through the hoop with perfect precision. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Xie Lian couldn't help but clap, his smile bright with admiration.

Mu Qing, sitting beside him, nudged his arm. "You're really into this game, huh? Or is it someone in the game?"

Xie Lian nearly choked on his response, his face flushing. "I—I just think Hua Cheng is really good," he stammered, his gaze flickering back to the field.

"‘Really good,’ huh?" Feng Xin chimed in from Xie Lian’s other side, his tone teasing. "You’ve barely blinked since the match started."

Xie Lian tried to protest, but another spectacular move from Hua Cheng stole his attention. The way Hua Cheng moved was almost hypnotic. He seemed untouchable, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to the Tigers’ increasingly frantic attempts to regain control.

When the final point was scored and the Azure Dragons emerged victorious, Xie Lian couldn’t contain his excitement. He jumped to his feet, clapping enthusiastically as Hua Cheng and his teammates celebrated on the field. Hua Cheng looked up at the stands, his eyes scanning the crowd until it landed on Xie Lian. For a moment, their gazes locked.

Xie Lian froze, his heart skipping a beat. Hua Cheng’s smile widened ever so slightly, a subtle yet unmistakable acknowledgment. Xie Lian felt a warmth bloom in his chest, shyness that made his hands fumble as he clapped.

As the players began to leave the field, Xie Lian’s eyes followed Hua Cheng, watching as he exchanged a few words with Shi Qingxuan before heading toward the sidelines. 

"He’s amazing," Xie Lian admitted quietly, more to himself than to his friends.

Mu Qing and Feng Xin exchanged a knowing glance but said nothing, letting their friend bask in his admiration. As they left the stands and made their way back to the academy, Xie Lian couldn’t help but steal one last glance at Hua Cheng, who was still surrounded by his teammates, his smile brighter than ever.

For Xie Lian, the memory of that smile—and the unshakable confidence that came with it—lingered long after the match had ended.

As the three friends made their way back toward the academy, the energy of the magical sports day surrounded them like an electric current. The wide fields were alive with activity, students from every house competing in various magical games and challenges. Cheers erupted from spectators scattered across the grounds.

Xie Lian, Mu Qing, and Feng Xin made their way toward the Mahjong competition tent. The trio had spent the past few days practicing together, sharpening their skills for what they knew would be a fierce competition. Feng Xin had been particularly enthusiastic, insisting that their strategy sessions go late into the night, while Mu Qing made a point of critiquing every minor misstep in their gameplay.

"Alright," Feng Xin said, his voice brimming with confidence. "We’ve practiced. We’ve prepared. No one’s going to beat us."

Mu Qing rolled his eyes. "Don’t get ahead of yourself. We’ll need more than enthusiasm to win, especially against players who’ve been doing this longer than us."

"Hey, Xie Lian’s a natural," Feng Xin said, slapping his friend on the back. "He’s got the calmness and precision to outplay anyone. And you, Mu Qing—well, you’re decent."

"Decent?" Mu Qing shot him a withering look. "I’m the reason we even have a strategy."

Xie Lian laughed softly at their bickering. "Let’s not get too worked up before we even start. Just do your best, and we’ll see how it goes."

As they approached the Mahjong tent, the trio paused in their tracks, their gazes snapping to the board that listed the participants. Among the names—many of which they recognized—one stood out: Lan Wangji.

Feng Xin groaned, running a hand down his face. "Well. We are doomed."

Mu Qing frowned. "This complicates things. Lan Wangji doesn’t just participate; he dominates. He probably memorized every possible tile combination and wrote a thesis on the game while meditating."

Xie Lian tried to ease their tension. "He’ll be a tough opponent, but that doesn’t mean we can’t hold our own. We’ve practiced a lot, and we know the game well."

"Easy for you to say," Feng Xin muttered. "You’re the best out of the three of us."

The tent was already full when they stepped inside, the sound of enchanted Mahjong tiles clattering in the air. The tiles shimmered faintly, their magical glow creating a mesmerizing spectacle as players tested their spells and strategies at the practice tables.

The friends found an open table and began preparing for the matches. As they warmed up, Feng Xin cast frequent glances toward Lan Wangji, who was seated at another table, calmly arranging his tiles with the precision of a master artisan. His stoic expression betrayed no emotion, but his movements were smooth and practiced, a clear sign of his expertise.

"Look at him... We are doomed," Feng Xin muttered.

Mu Qing shot him a sharp look. "Focus on your own game. If you let him get in your head now, you’ve already lost."

Xie Lian smiled faintly, his hands gently shuffling the tiles. "Let’s just take it one match at a time. We’ll deal with him if we cross paths."

The first matches began, and the tent quickly grew silent as players concentrated on their games. Xie Lian found himself paired against a student from the Crimson Phoenixes, someone he had seen in passing but didn’t know well. Despite the opponent’s aggressive playstyle, Xie Lian’s patience and calculated moves gave him the edge, and he secured a solid victory.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing were also holding their own, each navigating their matches with determination. Feng Xin’s bold tactics kept his opponents on their toes, while Mu Qing’s meticulous strategy allowed him to outmaneuver even the most skilled players.

By the time the trio reconvened between rounds, they were all feeling more confident.

Eventually, Xie Lian found himself facing a familiar opponent: Qi Rong.

Qi Rong strutted to the table, his grin smug as ever. "Xie Lian," he said with mock politeness, dragging out the word. "I hear you’ve been doing well. Don’t think that’ll help you against me, though."

Xie Lian merely nodded politely, not rising to the bait.

The match began, and Qi Rong wasted no time trying to dominate the game with flashy spells and aggressive plays. But Xie Lian’s focus didn’t waver. He read Qi Rong’s moves with precision, countering his every strategy with quiet efficiency.

The game was halfway through, and Qi Rong, for once, seemed more focused than usual. He hadn’t hurled a single insult in several turns—a rare occurrence that made Xie Lian suspicious.

The silence was broken when Qi Rong, with a sharp flick of his wrist, placed a tile down with an exaggerated flourish. He leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing at Xie Lian.

“You know,” Qi Rong began, his tone far too casual to be genuine, “you should watch your back these days.”

Xie Lian glanced up from his tiles, his brow furrowing slightly. “What are you talking about?”

Qi Rong smirked, but there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes. “Wen Chao,” he said, dragging the name out as though savoring it. “He’s up to something. Something nasty.”

Xie Lian’s heart skipped a beat, but he kept his expression neutral. “Why are you telling me this?”

Qi Rong tilted his head, as if considering whether or not to answer. Finally, he leaned forward, lowering his voice so only Xie Lian could hear. “Because my circle clashed with his recently—violently, I might add. The idiot tried to undermine me, thinking he could steal my spotlight. Naturally, I humiliated him.”

Xie Lian arched an eyebrow. “Naturally.”

“And now,” Qi Rong continued, his smirk widening into something sharper, “I want to see him taken down. Expelled, ideally. If warning you helps that happen, so be it.”

Xie Lian studied Qi Rong carefully. While he was usually insufferable, there was an uncharacteristic seriousness in his tone. “What exactly is he plotting?”

Qi Rong shrugged dramatically, though his eyes glinted with mischief. “Who knows? Probably something petty. But Wen Chao doesn’t play fair. He’s sneaky, and he’s got connections. If I were you, I’d keep an eye on him.”

Xie Lian placed his final tile, securing victory. 

"Looks like you won... this time." Qi Rong said.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing were waiting nearby, having both won their own matches.

"You crushed him!" Feng Xin said, laughing as Qi Rong stalked away.

Mu Qing smirked. "He underestimated you. His loss."

Xie Lian smiled softly but said nothing, his thoughts already on the upcoming matches and Qi Rong's warning.

Chapter Text

It was a bright, golden morning when Xie Lian, Mu Qing, and Feng Xin decided to visit the village just beyond the academy’s gates. Sundays were precious breaks from the intensity of their studies, and the trio planned to make the most of it by gathering supplies, exploring the shops, and perhaps indulging in a few luxuries.

The village was picturesque, nestled in the shadow of a serene mountain range. Its cobblestone streets were lined with charming shops, each painted in cheerful hues of pastel and accented with intricate magical carvings. Floating lanterns bobbed in the air, powered by gentle enchantments. Students, merchants, and villagers strolled leisurely, their robes swirling as a light breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers and egg tarts.

Feng Xin stretched his arms as they entered the village square. “It’s been too long since we’ve had a proper outing like this,” he said, his grin wide. “Where to first?”

“Supplies,” Mu Qing replied briskly, his arms already crossed as he scanned the bustling market.

“I plan to waste all my pocket money—and maybe grab some of those caramelized starfruit skewers while I’m at it.” Feng Xin said enthusiastically.

Xie Lian chuckled softly, his gaze drifting over the vibrant stalls. He enjoyed these moments with his friends, simple and unhurried. “Let’s start with the magic supplies shop. We can browse for books and parchment afterward.”

The magic supplies shop was an Aladdin’s cave of wonders, filled to the brim with glittering artifacts, colorful potions, and curious trinkets. Shelves stretched from floor to ceiling, holding jars of enchanted inks, glowing quills, and scrolls etched with shifting golden runes. Crystal spheres of varying sizes sparkled on display, each pulsing faintly with stored spells.

Xie Lian picked up a small jar labeled “Dreamcatcher Dust,” which promised to enhance divination abilities. He turned it over in his hands thoughtfully before setting it back. Mu Qing, meanwhile, was meticulously examining a rack of spell scrolls, muttering about the academy’s high prices and how they compared to the village’s more reasonable rates.

Feng Xin had already wandered to the back of the shop, calling out, “Hey, look at this! A self-heating fire cloak—it’s perfect for someone as cold as Mu Qing!”

“Very funny,” Mu Qing deadpanned, though his lips twitched in amusement.

After purchasing a handful of essential supplies—new quills, parchment, a jar of stardust ink, and a pouch of protective amulets—the trio made their way back outside. The sun had climbed higher, bathing the village in a warm, golden light.

As they meandered through the village, Feng Xin’s eyes lit up when he spotted a shop advertising magical pet summons. The sign above the door featured a glittering image of a phoenix perched beside a tiny dragon.

“Magic pets!” he exclaimed. “I need to see this. You two can wait for me here—I won’t take long.”

Before Xie Lian or Mu Qing could protest, Feng Xin was already halfway across the square, excitement propelling him forward.

Mu Qing sighed.

Xie Lian smiled as they stopped near a sweets stand, its colorful display of candies and pastries catching their attention. The vendor, a cheerful woman with a flowing robe that shimmered, greeted them warmly.

“Try one of our moonflower sweets,” she offered, holding out a tray of glowing confections. “They’re made with starlight essence—perfect for boosting your focus.”

Mu Qing raised an eyebrow but accepted a sample. Xie Lian picked a delicate, pastel-colored sweet and popped it into his mouth. The flavor was light and floral, with a hint of honey, and it left a faint, tingling sensation on his tongue.

As they debated whether to buy a box to share with Feng Xin later, Xie Lian caught sight of two familiar figures emerging from a nearby shop. His breath hitched.

It was Hua Cheng and Lan Wangji.

Hua Cheng wasn't wearing his school uniform and was dressed in his casual black attire, his crimson sash gleaming in the sunlight. Beside him, Lan Wangji’s white everyday robes fluttered gently in the breeze, his expression as composed and serene as ever. The contrast between them was striking- like fire and ice walking side by side.

Xie Lian blinked, then turned to Mu Qing, his voice lower than usual. "Do you think Hua Cheng and Lan Wangji are friends?"

Mu Qing raised an eyebrow and glanced over at the pair. "What makes you think that?"

"I don't know," Xie Lian said, his gaze still fixed on them. Hua Cheng was standing a little ahead, his expression relaxed and playful as he gestured toward a display window. Lan Wangji, ever composed, was nodding curtly in response. "They seem… comfortable together."

Mu Qing followed Xie Lian's gaze, his sharp eyes noticing the dynamic between the two. "Hmm, it's not something you'd expect, is it?" He seemed to consider it for a moment.

Xie Lian chewed on his bottom lip, his curiosity piqued. Without really thinking, he found himself taking a step forward.

Mu Qing glanced at him, slightly surprised. "You want to talk to them?”

Xie Lian flushed slightly but stood firm. "Well, why not?" He didn't know why his heart raced just thinking about it, but he was already moving toward them before he had time to second-guess himself.

Mu Qing sighed, but he couldn’t resist the gleam in Xie Lian’s eyes. With a resigned shrug, he followed along, both of them slowly closing the distance between the two figures ahead.

As they got closer, Xie Lian’s heart fluttered again, but he kept his steps steady. Hua Cheng’s voice reached them first, smooth and light, as he pointed at a strange, glowing amulet in the shop window. “I’ve never seen one like that before.”

Lan Wangji’s reply was brief but thoughtful. “It seems to be enchanted. You could test it, if you’d like.”

Xie Lian took a deep breath, feeling a little nervous. "Hey, Hua Cheng, Lan Wangji!" Xie Lian called out, his voice clear and friendly, though it wavered slightly with his excitement.

Both turned to face him, Hua Cheng’s smile spreading across his face, and Lan Wangji’s expression softened just the slightest bit at the sight of Xie Lian.

"Xie Lian," Hua Cheng said, his tone warm as he stepped forward. As they continued their conversation, a sudden voice called out from behind them.

"Guess what I heard in the pet shop!" Feng Xin’s excited shout echoed through the street, followed by the soft padding of what sounded like small paws. The group turned to find Feng Xin striding towards them with a strange, small creature.

It was a chubby, golden-furred fox with glowing blue eyes, and it seemed to be eyeing everyone with great curiosity. "Look what I got!" Feng Xin announced, grinning from ear to ear. The fox tilted its head, almost as if acknowledging the introduction.

"Feng Xin," Mu Qing said, raising an eyebrow as he sized up the new addition to the group. "What is that?"

"It's apet!" Feng Xin grinned. "This little guy’s a Sunfire Fox, and I can train him to help with some of my spells. He’s quick and smart—perfect for my temper, right?" He reached down to scratch the fox behind its ears, and it let out a small, contented purr.

Xie Lian smiled but didn’t comment on Feng Xin’s “temper” remark. "It’s cute, Feng Xin. But what was it you heard in the pet shop?"

Feng Xin’s eyes sparkled with mischief. "Oh, I overheard something pretty interesting. There's a shop nearby, one that deals in dark magic. I’m sure you’ve heard of it—it’s the one everyone says is cursed. Some people even claim it’s haunted by the spirits of the past." He leaned in conspiratorially, lowering his voice as if the very mention of the shop could summon something ominous. "They say that if you go inside, you might not come out the same. Pretty creepy, right?"

Mu Qing folded his arms, his expression unreadable. "Cursed shops? Haunted magic? Sounds like just another rumor to me."

Xie Lian raised an eyebrow. "But… what if it’s true?"

Feng Xin was clearly enjoying the mix of intrigue and skepticism that his revelation had caused. "I say we go check it out! I’m not saying we have to buy anything, but don’t you want to see what all the fuss is about? Besides, if it’s cursed, we’ll definitely want to see it before someone else gets caught in it."

"Are you serious?" Mu Qing muttered, his tone flat. "You want us to go look for ghosts?"

"Maybe not ghosts, but something even weirder," Feng Xin teased. "Come on! It'll be fun! Think of it as an adventure. We’re not exactly making a habit of boring, normal days, are we?"

Xie Lian thought for a moment, glancing at Hua Cheng and Lan Wangji. Hua Cheng seemed more than intrigued, his eyes lighting up with an amused glint as he looked at Xie Lian.

“I’m in,” Hua Cheng said casually, his voice carrying that same confident ease. "What’s the harm in a little curiosity?"

Lan Wangji didn’t respond immediately, but after a beat, he nodded. His eyes were calm, as usual, though there was a slight curve to his lips that suggested he might also be intrigued by the idea.

Feng Xin grinned, clearly pleased with the approval. "That’s the spirit!" He took a few steps forward, his little Sunfire Fox following him. "It’s just a short walk from here, and it’s not like anyone else would dare go in. The more reason for us to do it, right?"

"Alright, alright," Mu Qing muttered, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. "I guess it won’t hurt to take a look. Lead the way, Feng Xin."

With that, the group set off together, following Feng Xin’s excited steps as he made his way to the infamous dark magic shop. As they walked through the narrow, winding streets of the magic village, the air seemed to grow cooler, and the surrounding shops, filled with their usual mystical wares, suddenly looked less inviting. The chatter and laughter of the crowd seemed to fade as they neared a corner where the shadows seemed a little deeper.

There, nestled between two larger, brightly lit shops, was a small, weathered door with a tarnished bronze sign hanging above it. The words etched into the sign were written in an old, unfamiliar script, and the paint was chipped and fading.

Feng Xin stopped in front of it and grinned. "This is it. The Black Flame Emporium. You ready?"

Xie Lian, his heart pounding, stepped forward, his curiosity burning stronger than any apprehension. "I think we’re all ready," he said, his voice filled with a sense of adventure.

With a swift motion, Feng Xin pushed open the door, the faint creak echoing as they stepped inside.

The interior was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of herbs and incense, and the shelves were lined with ancient books, strange artifacts, and odd trinkets. The walls seemed to close in with an eerie intimacy, as if the shop itself were alive, watching them.

But then, just as they were beginning to absorb their surroundings, a familiar voice rang out from the corner of the room.

"Well, well, well! What a coincidence!" The voice was unmistakable. Xie Lian turned quickly, eyes widening as he spotted a familiar figure standing casually near the counter where customers typically paid for their purchases.

Xie Lian blinked in surprise, his heart leaping in recognition. What is he doing here? 

Before anyone else could respond, Lan Wangji, his brow furrowing in clear disapproval, hissed under his breath. "Wei Wing!" he muttered, almost as if the name itself were a reprimand.

Wei Wuxian flashed a grin at Lan Wangji, undeterred by his friend’s annoyance. 

"Ah, Lan Zhan," Wei Wuxian exclaimed, his voice laced with playful mischief. He was leaning nonchalantly against the counter, hands tucked into the pockets of his dark robe. "Fancy running into you here!"

"Why are you here, Wei Wing?" Lan Wangji asked, his tone sharp, though still composed. It was clear he wasn’t fond of Wei Wuxian’s presence in such a place, let alone in a shop with such a reputation.

Wei Wuxian's grin only widened, as though the tension in the air was exactly what he had been waiting for. "Why? Is there something wrong with a little curiosity? I was just browsing," he said, his eyes flicking over the shelves with an almost casual interest. "Seems like there’s a lot of fascinating things here. Things that could be very... useful."

As Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji continued their bickering, their voices rising with each passing moment, the rest of the group stood by, their unease growing. But amidst their heated exchange, a sudden, soft voice broke through the noise, its raspiness sending a shiver down Xie Lian’s spine.

"I’ve been expecting you."

Chapter Text

The voice came from deeper within the shop, faint but unmistakable, as though it had been lingering in the shadows the whole time, waiting for them. The group froze, and in the shadows of the back room, a figure emerged—an old, hunched woman. "You seek knowledge of the forbidden, do you?" she asked, her voice dripping with mystery.
Her silver hair was wild, like storm clouds caught in a tangle, and her sharp eyes glinted with unsettling intelligence. She moved with an eerie grace, her smile revealing teeth that seemed sharper than they should be.

"Curiosity is a dangerous thing, children."

Wei Wuxian, always one to rise to the occasion, grinned and stepped forward. "Well, dangerous or not, you’ve got our attention, old lady. What’s so forbidden about this place, anyway?"

The woman let out a dry, crackling laugh. "Ah, you’re bold. But the forbidden doesn’t reveal itself so easily. It must be earned... or chosen." She gestured for them to follow her deeper into the shop, past shelves crammed with strange and ominous artifacts.

Lan Wangji hesitated but moved cautiously after her. Xie Lian, Mu Qing, and Feng Xin exchanged a nervous glance before trailing behind, while Wei Wuxian and Hua Cheng followed.

The woman began pulling items off the shelves, one by one. "Look at this," she said, holding up a small, black orb that pulsed faintly as though alive. "An Orb of Echoes—capable of replaying the deepest fears of its owner."

Feng Xin made a face and took a step back. "No thanks."

She smirked and moved to the next object—a set of jagged bone fragments wrapped in a dark ribbon. "And here—Remains of the Severed Vow. Bind your enemies or yourself, but beware... it always demands something in return."

Mu Qing squinted at the bone fragments with a mixture of interest and revulsion. "Where do you even get things like this?"

The old woman ignored him, turning her attention to a tangle of silver chains suspended in a glass jar. "The Chains of Confinement," she murmured. "Once worn, they can only be unlocked by the bearer’s true intention."

Xie Lian, however, wasn’t paying much attention to her explanations. As they moved further into the shop, something caught his eye—a faint shimmer of light coming from a small, unassuming trinket on a dusty shelf. It was a pendant, shaped like an ancient sigil he vaguely recognized. It felt familiar, as though he’d seen it somewhere before.

The moment his gaze fell on it, a strange sensation washed over him. It was as if the trinket was calling to him, pulling at something deep within his chest. He stepped closer, almost unconsciously, and reached out to touch it.

"Ah," the old woman said suddenly, her sharp eyes narrowing as she noticed his interest. "That one. The Pendant of Convergence. A curious thing, tied to fates and visions. Dangerous, if handled unwisely."

Xie Lian’s fingers brushed the surface of the pendant, and a rush of warmth spread through his body. In his mind’s eye, he caught a fleeting glimpse of the vision he’d seen in divination class—the same haunting, incomprehensible image.

He pulled back his hand, shaken. "What… what is this?"

The woman chuckled, her voice low and knowing. "Ah, child, some things call to us because they are meant to find us. Others… because we are meant to face them. Tell me, what do you see?"

Xie Lian didn’t answer, his eyes still fixed on the pendant. His friends moved closer, their concern evident.

"Xie Lian," Feng Xin said, his voice low. "You okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost."

"Maybe he has," Wei Wuxian said with a grin, though his eyes flicked to the pendant with interest. "So, are you going to buy it, or just stare at it forever?"

Lan Wangji frowned, his voice laced with suspicion. "It would be unwise to take something you do not understand."

But Xie Lian couldn’t let go of the feeling. The pendant wasn’t just calling to him—it was connected to something he needed to uncover. With a deep breath, he turned to the old woman. "How much for this?"

Her crooked smile widened. "For you, my dear… it’s not a matter of price, but of choice. Are you ready to bear the weight of what it may reveal?"

The question hung heavily in the air, and Xie Lian’s hand trembled slightly as he gripped the pendant. He wasn’t sure if he was ready—but he knew he couldn’t walk away.

When the group left the mysterious shop, the pendant was tucked securely in Xie Lian’s pocket. Despite the weight of what had just transpired, the lively chatter of the magical village welcomed them back into its sunlit bustle. 

They wandered through the market streets, marveling at the colorful stalls that lined both sides. Merchants called out to passersby, their voices a mixture of charm and persuasion. Tables brimmed with a dazzling array of magical trinkets—glowing amulets, wands carved from enchanted woods, and tiny, bottled storms that crackled faintly inside their glass containers.

At one stall, an older wizard sold enchanted books that flipped their own pages when spoken to. Feng Xin picked one up, only for it to scold him in a stern voice for handling it too roughly, much to everyone’s amusement. Another stand displayed miniature figurines of mythical creatures that came to life when touched. Mu Qing watched with thinly veiled fascination as a tiny phoenix spread its delicate wings and let out a melodious cry.

The air was filled with the enticing scents of magical treats. Xie Lian’s gaze wandered to a nearby cart where a vendor was crafting shimmering sugar butterflies that fluttered above trays of enchanted sweets. Hua Cheng smirked at Xie Lian’s evident interest and nudged him gently. “Let’s try some.”

They approached the cart, and the vendor handed them an assortment of glittering confections. There were mooncakes that glowed faintly like the phases of the moon, candied lotus petals that dissolved on the tongue into a burst of floral sweetness, and small, star-shaped pastries filled with a cream that sparkled like starlight.

Feng Xin chose a biscuit imbued with a spell that made his voice echo hilariously for a few moments, causing Wei Wuxian to burst into laughter. Mu Qing opted for a less adventurous honey cake dusted with gold flakes.

As they walked further, Hua Cheng purchased two sets of sugared cloud blossoms and handed one to Xie Lian. “Come,” he said, gesturing toward a stone fountain at the center of the square. “Let’s sit for a while.”

The fountain’s crystal-clear water sparkled in the sunlight, and a soft mist rose from its base, cooling the air around it. They sat side by side on the edge of the fountain, the laughter and chatter of the market fading into the background.

As they ate, Xie Lian felt a sense of déjà vu wash over him. The sunlight catching the droplets of water, the sweet taste on his tongue, and Hua Cheng’s steady presence—all of it was eerily familiar. His heart skipped a beat as he realized why.

“This…” Xie Lian began, his voice faltering. He looked down at the cloud blossom in his hand, then at Hua Cheng. “This is what I saw when I touched you.”

Hua Cheng turned to him, his eyes gleaming with quiet amusement. “I know,” he said softly, as though the revelation was nothing new to him. His gaze was steady, as though it had always been fixed on Xie Lian, through time and space. “I guess our fates are intertwined.”

Xie Lian’s cheeks warmed, and for a moment, he forgot about the pendant in his pocket or the lingering unease about Wen Chao’s schemes. All that mattered was the peacefulness of this moment, shared with Hua Cheng.

The rest of the day was spent exploring the market. They stopped by a stall selling enchanted scarves that changed color based on the wearer’s mood, and another where jars of magical ink glowed faintly in different hues. Wei Wuxian charmed a shopkeeper into letting him try out a wand that could summon temporary illusions, much to Lan Wangji’s disapproval.

By the time the sun dipped lower in the sky, the group was laden with small treasures and memories, their laughter carrying through the village as they made their way back toward the academy. 

For Xie Lian, the day had been a mix of lighthearted joy and the quiet affirmation that some moments were meant to unfold exactly as they did except... when they turned a corner, the lively chatter of the market dimmed, replaced by an eerie silence. Ahead, a dark alleyway stretched ominously, its shadows thick and uninviting. Standing at the entrance, leaning casually against the wall, was Wen Chao. 

His expression was one of smug anticipation, his arms crossed as though he had all the time in the world. Flanking him were ten others, each bearing the unmistakable air of troublemakers. Some twirled wands in their fingers, while others had their arms folded menacingly, their eyes gleaming with mischief.

Chapter Text

Wen Chao stepped forward, his sneer deepening as he fixed his gaze on Xie Lian. “I warned you,” he hissed, his voice dripping with malice. “I told you not to pull any tricks, but you couldn’t resist humiliating me and my boys, could you?”

Xie Lian’s brow furrowed, his hand instinctively moving toward his wand. “I didn’t humiliate anyone. If you feel embarrassed, that’s because you tried to cheat on an assignment. You didn’t even have the magical ability to detect there was a hidden text. That's entirely on you.”

The words hit Wen Chao like a slap, and his smirk twisted into a snarl. Without warning, he raised his wand, a dark, pulsing energy gathering at its tip. “You’ll regret those words, Xie Lian!”

Before the curse could be released, Feng Xin darted forward, casting a shimmering golden barrier between Xie Lian and Wen Chao. The dark energy splashed harmlessly against it, dissipating into sparks.

“That’s enough, Wen Chao!” Feng Xin growled, his wand crackling with fire magic.

“Stay out of this!” Wen Chao barked, his group stepping forward in unison, their wands alight with spells of their own.

Mu Qing rolled his eyes, raising his wand. “Always resorting to underhanded tactics because you can’t handle losing.”

The alleyway erupted into chaos.

Spells flew in every direction, illuminating the dark alley with bursts of light and crackling energy. Wen Chao’s group attacked in pairs, trying to overwhelm Xie Lian and his friends with coordinated strikes.

Xie Lian stood his ground, flanked by Hua Cheng, Feng Xin, Mu Qing, Lan Wangji, and Wei Wuxian. Though confident in their abilities, the sheer number of opponents tilted the odds precariously against them.

“Let’s see how long that courage lasts,” Wen Chao spat, raising his wand.

Wen Chao’s group coordinated their attacks, sending a barrage of curses and offensive spells toward Xie Lian and his friends.

“Shield us!” Lan Wangji barked, stepping forward with calm precision. His wand emitted a resonant hum as he cast a shimmering, translucent barrier that absorbed the first wave of attacks. The shield flickered under the onslaught, but it bought them precious seconds to prepare.

Hua Cheng was the first to counter. He moved like liquid fire, his strikes precise and relentless as he forced two attackers back. 

Feng Xin joined the fray, his wand blazing with golden fire as he launched a volley of projectiles that detonated in fiery bursts. Two of Wen Chao’s lackeys stumbled, momentarily disoriented, but the others surged forward.

Mu Qing stayed close to Xie Lian, his spells sharp and defensive. He conjured a vortex of wind that deflected a wave of poisonous hexes aimed at them. “We can’t hold them off forever,” he muttered.

Wei Wuxian, grinning despite the odds, summoned ghostly blue talismans that darted like spectral knives through the air. “Let’s make this interesting!” he said, his laughter ringing out as two of the attackers fell back, dizzy and disoriented.

Despite their skill, the numbers were beginning to tell. Xie Lian and his friends were forced into a defensive circle, the relentless attacks coming from all sides. Feng Xin grunted as a stray spell clipped his shoulder, sending sparks flying.

The chaos in the alley reached a fever pitch as Wen Chao raised his wand “Let’s see you get out of this one!” he sneered, releasing a forbidden Dark Void spell that tore through the air, aimed directly at Xie Lian.

Xie Lian barely had time to react, the forbidden spell hurtling toward him with malevolent intent. Just as it was about to strike, a figure moved in front of him—a flash of crimson.

“Hua Cheng!” Xie Lian shouted, his heart lurching.

The spell hit Hua Cheng squarely in the chest, the dark energy crackling as it spread across his body. He collapsed to the ground with a sharp gasp.

“No!” Xie Lian cried, dropping to his knees beside Hua Cheng. But before he could assess Hua Cheng’s condition, more spells flew through the air. Fire and lightning illuminated the alley as Wen Chao’s group pressed their advantage.

Xie Lian’s vision blurred, his senses overwhelmed by fear and rage. The only thing he could focus on was Hua Cheng, lying motionless on the ground. A surge of heat swelled in his chest, a pressure that built rapidly until it felt unbearable.

And then, everything went black.

A thunderous boom echoed through the alley as Xie Lian’s Chaotic Qi erupted. The ground shook, cracks spidering out beneath his feet as a wave of raw, uncontrolled energy exploded outward. The air buzzed with an oppressive hum, and Wen Chao’s group was thrown back like ragdolls, their wands flying from their hands.

The dark alley was filled with an eerie light as the energy swirled violently around Xie Lian, disarming his enemies and leaving them momentarily frozen, their bodies unresponsive under the sheer force of his power.

Wei Wuxian, shielding his face from the energy, shouted over the din, “Lan Wangji!"

Lan Wangji sprinted toward Xie Lian, his robes fluttering as he fought against the storm of energy. In his hand, he held a glowing talisman, a powerful charm designed to suppress rogue magic.

Xie Lian was unrecognizable, his eyes glowing with an otherworldly light, his body rigid as the Chaotic Qi consumed him. 

Lan Wangji reached him and pressed the talisman firmly on Xie Lian’s back. The talisman activated, glowing brightly as it absorbed the chaotic energy. The oppressive buzz in the air began to dissipate, and the light around Xie Lian dimmed. He swayed on his feet before collapsing, unconscious...

The next thing Xie Lian knew, he was waking up in the soft, sterile light of the academy’s infirmary. He blinked a few times, his vision adjusting to the room.

Looking around, he saw Hua Cheng lying in a bed nearby. To the right, Mu Qing lay with his arms crossed, his face turned slightly away, though Xie Lian could tell he wasn’t asleep. Across from Mu Qing was Feng Xin, snoring lightly, his hand still gripping a wand as if ready to spring into action.

His gaze shifted further, and he saw Lan Wangji sitting straight-backed in a chair, his eyes closed in quiet repose. On the floor beside him, Wei Wuxian was sprawled with unrestrained casualness, idly pulling at a strand of Lan Wangji’s hair, an impish grin on his face.

Xie Lian cleared his throat weakly, drawing their attention. “Where… Where am I?”

Lan Wangji’s eyes opened immediately, sharp and alert, his attention snapping to Xie Lian. He stood gracefully, his posture composed. “You are in the infirmary,” he said in his steady tone. “You overexerted your Chaotic Qi during the confrontation with Wen Chao and his group. It took considerable effort to suppress it.”

Memories of the alleyway flooded back to Xie Lian, and his chest tightened. “What… what happened to Wen Chao and the others?”

Lan Wangji’s expression remained neutral, but there was a slight edge of satisfaction in his voice as he replied, “Wen Chao and his group have been confined in the Chamber of Judgment. Their actions have been reported to the academy’s council. Tomorrow, their parents will arrive to collect them.”

Wei Wuxian snickered from the floor, twirling the strand of Lan Wangji’s hair between his fingers. “I wouldn’t want to be in their shoes right now.”

Lan Wangji shot Wei Wuxian a warning glance and gently tugged his hair free from the other’s grip. Wei Wuxian only grinned wider.

Xie Lian exhaled in relief, though the tension in his body didn’t fully ease. He looked toward Hua Cheng, the memory of shielding him from the Dark Void vivid in his mind. Hua Cheng’s steady breathing reassured him, but guilt gnawed at the edges of his thoughts.

Lan Wangji seemed to sense his unease. “Rest now,” he said firmly. “This matter has been dealt with. Your focus should be on recovery.”

Xie Lian nodded faintly, though his heart still felt heavy. As he leaned back into the infirmary bed, his gaze lingered on his friends—on Hua Cheng, Mu Qing, Feng Xin, Lan Wangji, and even Wei Wuxian—and a faint smile crossed his lips. Whatever trials lay ahead, at least he wasn’t facing them alone.

Chapter Text

The Academy was transformed into a winter wonderland, with traditional Chinese decorations adorning every corner. Red lanterns swayed gently in the cold breeze, and intricate paper cuttings of plum blossoms and snowflakes hung from doorways and windows. The smell of spiced tea and roasted chestnuts wafted through the air as students enjoyed the brief respite from their studies.

Word spread quickly through the Academy that Wen Chao and several of his lackeys had been expelled following the ambush in the village. Their parents had arrived at the Chamber of Judgement in an uproar, but the evidence against them was undeniable. The Academy's strict disciplinary council showed no mercy, and by the end of the day, Wen Chao’s name was struck from the student registry.

While most of the Academy bustled with festive energy, Mu Qing had buried himself in the library, poring over ancient texts. His determination to use the break for academic progress was unwavering. Meanwhile, Feng Xin could be found in the common room, locked in what seemed to be an eternal game of magic mahjong with Lan Wangji.

“I’m not stopping until I win at least once!” Feng Xin declared for the hundredth time, slamming his tile down with a dramatic flourish.

Lan Wangji remained calm, methodically placing his own tiles. “Persistence is admirable,” he said coolly, “but strategy is better.”

Xie Lian, on the other hand, decided to take a break from it all. He spent his days wandering the Academy grounds, taking in the beauty of the season. Snow blanketed the gardens, and the air was crisp and quiet, offering a sense of peace after the recent chaos.

One afternoon, as Xie Lian strolled past the frosted gardens, he stumbled upon a frozen lake. The sunlight reflected off the ice, creating a dazzling display of light that mesmerized him. He approached the edge of the lake and, after a moment’s hesitation, pulled the pendant he had taken from the dark magic shop out of his pocket.

It glinted faintly, as though responding to the winter sun. Xie Lian turned it over in his hands, inspecting its intricate designs. As he stared at it, he couldn’t shake the feeling that it was trying to communicate with him, but its whispers were just out of reach.

Suddenly, movement in the distance caught his eye. He quickly tucked the pendant back into his pocket and squinted toward the tree line. A familiar figure was making his way toward the enchanted forest.

“Hua Cheng?” Xie Lian murmured, his heart skipping a beat.

Curiosity got the better of him, and he followed at a safe distance, careful to stay out of sight. Hua Cheng moved quickly, disappearing into the dense trees. Xie Lian hesitated at the edge but soon slipped in after him, weaving through the snow-laden branches.

Hua Cheng knelt near a cluster of glowing blue plants. He carefully harvested a few of the blossoms, his movements careful and reverent. Xie Lian watched in silence, curiosity swelling within him. What was Hua Cheng collecting, and why? Before he could decide whether to reveal himself, Hua Cheng stood, his task complete, and disappeared deeper into the forest.

That evening, Xie Lian found himself back in the library, sitting beside Mu Qing, who was engrossed in a thick tome. The crackling of the fireplace and the faint rustle of pages filled the quiet space. Xie Lian absentmindedly flipped through a book of beautiful moving paintings of magical birds, though his thoughts kept drifting to the enchanted forest and the pendant.

A soft hand suddenly rested on his shoulder, startling him. He looked up to find Hua Cheng leaning down, his face impossibly close.

“Gege,” Hua Cheng whispered, his voice low and intimate. “Would you like to have tea with me in my room?”

Xie Lian’s heart leaped into his throat. He stammered, his face instantly heating.

“I’ll be waiting,” Hua Cheng said with a faint smirk before straightening and walking away, leaving Xie Lian breathless.

Mu Qing glanced up from his book, raising an eyebrow at Xie Lian’s obvious fluster. “What did he tell you?”

“Nothing!” Xie Lian squeaked, quickly gathering his things. He had absolutely no intention of missing this invitation.

The Azure Dragons’ common room was a sea of deep blue robes, accented with gold and silver embroidery, bustling with students engaged in various activities. Xie Lian’s entrance, however, brought the room to a halt. His crimson robes of the Crimson Phoenixes stood out starkly against the cooler tones of the room, drawing every eye to him.

Conversations hushed, and a few whispers rippled through the crowd. Some students regarded him with open curiosity, others with subtle annoyance. Xie Lian ignored them all, his focus solely on the staircase that led to the dormitory floors above.

Ascending the staircase, Xie Lian felt the weight of lingering stares on his back, but he didn’t let it deter him. The doors to the students’ rooms were neatly lined up along the corridor, each adorned with a small glowing nameplate that flickered softly with magic.

Xie Lian was murmuring, reading the names as he walked.

Finally, he found the door he was looking for. The name "Hua Cheng" shimmered faintly in elegant script. He hesitated for only a moment before knocking.

The door creaked open, and there stood Hua Cheng, his usual robes absent. Instead, he wore casual clothes—a white shirt, slightly unbuttoned at the collar, and simple dark pants. His dark hair was slightly tousled, and he looked every bit as effortlessly handsome as ever.

“Come in, Gege,” Hua Cheng said, stepping aside.

Xie Lian quickly entered, his heart racing as the door shut behind him.

Hua Cheng moved gracefully around the room, retrieving a small, ornate tea set from a shelf and a pouch filled with petals from the glowing blue flowers Xie Lian had seen earlier in the enchanted forest. As he boiled water and prepared the tea, he glanced at Xie Lian, who was still standing awkwardly near the center of the room.

“Sit, Gege,” Hua Cheng said with a small smile, gesturing to a low table near the window. “I gathered these flowers today. They’re said to have a special property: the tea brewed from them smells and tastes like the one your heart loves the most.”

Xie Lian’s cheeks reddened as he lowered himself onto the cushion. He watched Hua Cheng pour the tea with ease, the faint steam carrying a delicate fragrance that immediately made his heart flutter.

The aroma was warm, rich, and faintly sweet—an unmistakable echo of Hua Cheng himself.

Hua Cheng handed him a cup and sat across from him, his eyes gleaming with quiet amusement. “Tell me, Gege, what does it smell like to you?”

Xie Lian lifted the cup and inhaled deeply, the scent stirring something deep within him. “It smells like…” he hesitated, glancing up at Hua Cheng, whose expression was both curious and teasing. “...like sandalwood, rain on stone, and a faint hint of silver moon flowers.”

Hua Cheng’s lips curved into a knowing smile, but he said nothing, simply raising his own cup to his lips.

“And the taste?” Hua Cheng asked after a moment, his tone low and inviting.

Xie Lian took a careful sip, letting the warmth spread through him. It was both familiar and elusive, a flavor that teased the edges of his mind. “I’m… not sure,” he admitted softly, his cheeks warming. “Maybe I need another taste.”

He placed his cup down, leaned across the small table, and pressed his lips to Hua Cheng’s.

The kiss was soft and fleeting, but it left a spark between them, a quiet moment suspended in time. Xie Lian pulled back, his face as red as his robes. “Yes,” he whispered, his voice trembling but certain. “It tastes like you.”

Chapter Text

The snow-covered grounds of the academy were a beautiful sight to witness. Enchanted ice sculptures of mythical beasts decorated the courtyards, and students laughed as they participated in games like spell-casting snowball fights.

Xie Lian wandered through it all, feeling an unshakable warmth that had nothing to do with the festivities. His mind replayed the kisses he’d shared with Hua Cheng. He had kissed Hua Cheng. Twice. And it felt perfect.

The frozen lake in the academy gardens had become a hub of activity during the winter celebrations, with students laughing and gliding gracefully across the ice. However, the scene took a comical turn when Feng Xin and Mu Qing decided to try their luck at skating for the first time.

Xie Lian stood near the edge of the lake, bundled in his winter robes, arms crossed as he watched his two friends attempt the daunting task.

“Skating can’t be that hard,” Feng Xin declared confidently, stepping onto the ice with one boot, his skates tied on loosely.

Mu Qing huffed, adjusting his own skates with precision. “It’s about balance and control—two things you don’t have.”

“Watch and learn, Mu Qing,” Feng Xin retorted, stepping fully onto the ice. For a brief, miraculous moment, he stayed upright, sliding forward with surprising ease. “See? I told you—”

Before he could finish, his arms windmilled wildly, and he crashed onto his backside with an audible thud.

Xie Lian clapped a hand over his mouth to stifle a laugh.

Mu Qing smirked, standing at the edge with a smug look. “Amateur.” He stepped onto the ice, moving carefully and deliberately. His face remained calm and composed as he took a few hesitant strides. But then his foot caught on a small bump, and he tipped forward, flailing before landing face-first into the ice.

Xie Lian couldn’t hold it in anymore. He burst out laughing, doubling over as his two friends glared at each other from their undignified positions on the ice.

“Don’t laugh too hard!” Feng Xin grumbled, struggling to get back on his feet. “You could try skating, you know!”

“I’ll stick to watching, thank you,” Xie Lian replied between chuckles.

Mu Qing, finally stood upright again. “It’s not the ice—it’s your terrible influence.”

“Terrible influence?” Feng Xin shot back, attempting to glide toward him. Instead, he ended up careening into Mu Qing, and the two toppled over like a pair of dominoes.

The students around them began to notice, chuckling and pointing as Feng Xin and Mu Qing scrambled to get up, slipping and sliding all the while.

“Stop pushing!” Mu Qing snapped.

“I’m not pushing!” Feng Xin barked back, gripping Mu Qing’s arm for balance and accidentally pulling him down again.

Xie Lian had tears in his eyes from laughing so hard.

Finally, Lan Wangji appeared from the nearby path. Without a word, he stepped onto the ice and, with effortless grace, glided toward the two struggling figures. With one hand, he helped Mu Qing to his feet, then offered the other to Feng Xin.

“It’s not so hard once you stop fighting the ice,” Lan Wangji said.

“Easy for you to say,” Feng Xin muttered, wincing as he steadied himself.

The incident ended with Lan Wangji expertly teaching the two how to skate properly, though it didn’t stop Xie Lian from laughing every time they slipped again. For all the embarrassment, Feng Xin and Mu Qing couldn’t help but join in the laughter, the festive spirit warming even the iciest of moments.

The academy’s grand dining hall was also a place where all the students gathered during the winter celebration. None of them wanted to miss on the festive food. Long tables were laden with roasted meats that had rich glazes, mooncakes infused with winter spices, candied fruits, crispy spring rolls, and small cups of chrysanthemum tea to round out the meal.

Xie Lian sat at the Crimson Phoenix table, stealing glances at the Azure Dragons' section, where Hua Cheng sat. Hua Cheng, dressed in his formal blue robes, looked calm and composed as he ate, occasionally conversing with the students around him. Then, as if sensing Xie Lian’s gaze, Hua Cheng looked up and met his eyes. A smile, soft and private, tugged at the corner of his lips, and Xie Lian’s heart soared.

After the dinner, Feng Xin and Mu Qing appeared, their excitement evident.

“Come with us,” Feng Xin said, grinning.

“We have something to show you,” Mu Qing added, though he tried to sound indifferent.

Curious, Xie Lian followed them outside to the academy gardens, where rows of plum trees stood dusted with snow, their delicate magical blossoms a stark contrast to the white landscape. Enchanted fireflies darted among the branches, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

Waiting for them near a stone pavilion were Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, both wrapped in elegant winter cloaks. Wei Wuxian waved enthusiastically, while Lan Wangji stood stoic as ever. Before Xie Lian could ask what was going on, Hua Cheng appeared, walking towards them with something cradled carefully in his hands.

It was the most adorable creature Xie Lian had ever seen—a tiny, fluffy bird-like being with downy white feathers, impossibly big eyes, and a little golden beak. Its wings were barely larger than Xie Lian’s palm, and it let out a soft, inquisitive chirp as Hua Cheng approached.

“This,” Lan Wangji explained, his voice calm and measured, “is a spirit-finch. They absorb rogue energy, especially useful for someone with Chaotic Qi.” He glanced at Xie Lian meaningfully.

Xie Lian looked at Hua Cheng in amazement. “Is this why you were in the village that day?”

Hua Cheng nodded, a glint of pride in his eye. “Lan Wangji and I were searching for it. I wanted to make sure you had something to help you manage your Qi.”

Xie Lian felt a lump in his throat. “Thank you…” he whispered, looking at the finch, who tilted its head and chirped in response.

As the group began working with the spirit-finch, it became clear that while adorable, the creature was also incredibly mischievous. When Hua Cheng set it on the ground, it immediately flapped its tiny wings and zoomed away, zigzagging unpredictably through the garden.

Wei Wuxian laughed as he tried to catch it, only to trip and nearly fall into a snowbank. “It’s faster than it looks!”

Lan Wangji sighed, pulling out a small, glowing talisman. “We must calm it first.”

“Calm it? It looks like it’s having the time of its life!” Feng Xin said, watching as the bird zoomed in circles around his fire fox.

The fire fox, ever curious, tried to chase the spirit-finch, leaving trails of glowing sparks in its wake. The two creatures quickly became engrossed in their own game, darting and dashing around the group, leaving everyone struggling to keep up.

“Great,” Mu Qing muttered, brushing snow off his robes. “Now we have two troublemakers to deal with.”

At one point, the finch landed on Xie Lian’s head, chirping triumphantly as if declaring victory. Hua Cheng chuckled, reaching out to gently pluck the bird from Xie Lian’s hair. “It seems to like you already.”

As the sun set and the last golden rays filtered through the academy’s snow-covered grounds, Xie Lian and his friends trudged back to the dorms, exhausted but laughing from their chaotic attempt to train the small creature. The fluffy, mischievous thing had finally nestled itself in Xie Lian's arms, its enormous eyes fluttering shut in defeat, clearly tired out from its antics. The group’s banter echoed through the quiet corridors as they approached the  dormitories.

Just as they rounded a corner, Mu Qing froze. “What’s that?” he asked, pointing toward the main notice board near the entrance hall.

A large, shimmering parchment was pinned there, glowing faintly with magical pictures that swirled and shifted across the surface. The heading read:

“The Enchanted Night: Winter Masquerade Ball”

The group stopped to examine it.

Feng Xin leaned in, squinting at the elegant, looping script. “A masquerade ball at the academy?”

“Yes!” Wei Wuxian exclaimed, already grinning. “Finally, some excitement around here!” He nudged Lan Wangji, whose expression barely changed, though his gaze lingered on the announcement.

Hua Cheng smirked slightly, his eyes briefly flicking to Xie Lian.

Xie Lian’s gaze swept over the details of the announcement, reading aloud:

“The Enchanted Night will take place in the Great Hall on the final night of the winter celebrations. All students are required to wear formal robes in winter colors and bring a mask. There will be music, dancing, refreshments, and a prize for the best magic performance.”

“Great. Another excuse for the White Kylins to show off their fancy enchanted wardrobes.” Feng Xin commented.

Mu Qing crossed his arms, looking thoughtful. “It’s an opportunity to practice charmwork.”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes gleamed mischievously. “Or you could enchant a mask to prank someone mid-dance. Imagine their mask turning into—”

“Don’t,” Lan Wangji cut in, giving him a pointed look.

Xie Lian, meanwhile, was still absorbing the idea of the ball. His thoughts flickered to Hua Cheng, who seemed nonchalant about the whole affair but was still standing close enough that their shoulders brushed. The prospect of an event like this, with its elegance and mystery, filled Xie Lian with excitement and nervous anticipation.

Chapter Text

The village near the academy was adorned with winter flowers and frost-kissed decorations in celebration of the winter festivities. Xie Lian and Mu Qing stepped into a shop specializing in magic fabrics, their eyes immediately drawn to the dazzling display of shimmering bolts of cloth that seemed to dance under the soft glow of the light.

The shop was filled with rolls of fabric in every hue and texture imaginable, each imbued with subtle magical properties. Some fabrics shimmered with swirling patterns, while others shifted colors like a kaleidoscope under changing angles. A particular bolt of crimson fabric caught Xie Lian’s attention—it pulsed gently, as if alive with fiery warmth.

“Look at this one,” Mu Qing said, pulling a bolt of silver fabric embroidered with delicate patterns of starlight. When draped over his arm, the stars seemed to twinkle. “This will ensure I outshine everyone.”

Xie Lian laughed, “Are you sure you’re not just picking that because it contrasts Feng Xin's black leather robes?”

Mu Qing raised a brow and smirked. “As if I was impressed by the tacky golden scales on his attire. Do you want me to try it on and see what elegance means? Prepare to be amazed.”

Mu Qing stepped behind a shimmering curtain where the shopkeeper assisted him. Moments later, he re-emerged wearing the silver fabric draped elegantly over his shoulders. The room seemed to pause for a moment as the enchanted material caught the light, making him look like a deity descended from the heavens.

“You’re showing off now,” Xie Lian teased, though he couldn’t help but be impressed.

Mu Qing smirked, adjusting the drape. “What can I say? I have an image to uphold.”

Meanwhile, Xie Lian had the small magic bird perched on his shoulder, chirping softly as if offering opinions on the fabrics. Despite the mesmerizing array of choices, he hesitated. None of the colors felt right. Then, the shopkeeper brought out a bolt of pristine white fabric.

“This one changes according to the wearer’s emotions,” the shopkeeper explained. “It reflects the heart’s truest desires.”

Xie Lian’s eyes lit up. “I’ll take it.”

Just as Xie Lian was finalizing his choice, the door jingled, and Shi Qingxuan stepped into the shop. The leader of the Azure Dragon Green Ball team exuded effortless charm, his smile brightening the already luminous shop.

“Fancy seeing you two here,” Shi Qingxuan said, his voice as warm as a summer breeze. “Getting ready for the ball, I see?”

Mu Qing folded his arms, still draped in his starry silver fabric. “Oh? Let's see the fabric of your choosing.”

Shi Qingxuan laughed and selected a bolt of vibrant blue fabric that rippled like water. “Azure Dragons have their own style.”

As the three chatted, Xie Lian felt a faint warmth demanating from the thing in his pocket—the trinket he had taken from the dark magic shop. It pulsed once, and a wave of dizziness overcame him. He closed his eyes, and a vivid vision unfolded in his mind.

Xie Lian stumbled slightly, as if his body hadn't quite caught up with the vision pulling him in. His heart raced, and the images flooded his senses with startling clarity.

He saw an elegant ballroom, its grand chandelier hanging high above, crafted from enchanted ice that shimmered like a thousand stars. The delicate icicles dripped with the soft glow of lanterns, casting ethereal reflections on the polished marble floor. The guests were dancing, their laughter echoing, and everything seemed so serene and beautiful.

But then, suddenly, the chandelier began to tremble, the ice creaking and cracking with unnatural force. Xie Lian watched in helpless horror as it began to fall—pieces of ice shattered into a thousand fragments, crashing down upon the floor with a deafening noise. The ballroom erupted in chaos, people screaming as they scattered, but through it all, Xie Lian noticed something more ominous: a dark figure cloaked in shadows, standing at the far side of the room. The figure’s presence was suffocating, and its eyes gleamed with a strange malice that seemed to reach right into Xie Lian’s soul.

Just as the figure began to move toward him, the vision suddenly distorted. The image of the chandelier crashing stopped abruptly, leaving only the black silhouette of the figure, its eyes locked onto Xie Lian’s as the vision faded.

Xie Lian gasped, clutching his chest. His hands trembled as he struggled to make sense of what he had just seen.

“Xie Lian? Are you okay?” Mu Qing’s voice was a sharp contrast to the soft murmurs of the shop. He had stepped forward, concern etching his features as he noticed Xie Lian’s sudden distress.

“I… I saw something,” Xie Lian said, still shaken. His voice wavered as he tried to steady himself. 

Shi Qingxuan’s bright smile faded slightly, his eyes narrowing with concern. “A vision? Like the one you had in divination class, or something else?”

Xie Lian nodded, though his expression remained clouded with unease. He rubbed the back of his neck, a nervous habit when he was uncertain. “It was similar to the one I had in class, yes. But… different. This time, it felt much more real. I saw a ballroom—beautiful, extravagant—like something out of a fairy tale. There was a chandelier made of enchanted ice, and everything looked perfect. But then…” His voice faltered as the memory of the vision came rushing back. “The chandelier fell. It crashed to the ground, and everything went into chaos.”

Shi Qingxuan’s brow furrowed as he listened intently. He took a step closer to Xie Lian, his earlier cheerfulness replaced by a grave expression. “Did you see anything else? Someone? A person, maybe?”

Xie Lian hesitated before he spoke again. “Yes. There was someone. A dark figure standing across the room. It was the same one I saw in the divination class. The one I couldn’t quite make out. Its eyes—” He swallowed hard, his hands trembling slightly as the memory lingered. “Its eyes were cold. I don’t know who they are, but I can feel their presence.”

Mu Qing’s voice broke through the heavy silence, his tone skeptical. “So you’re telling me that this… dark figure is showing up in both of your visions? You think it’s connected to whatever happened with the chandelier?”

“I don’t know.” Xie Lian shook his head, his frustration evident. “But it felt important.”

Mu Qing’s eyes narrowed, his usual calm demeanor replaced by a rare flicker of concern. “The figure from divination class? That’s troubling. If it’s reappearing in your visions like this, we can’t ignore it. We need to tell the professors.”

Xie Lian nodded, his mind racing as he gripped the small magical trinket in his pocket, its strange pulse still lingering under his fingers. He looked up at Mu Qing, his expression determined. “We should tell them, but… I’m not sure they’ll take it seriously.”

Mu Qing studied him for a moment, then sighed. “Let’s go. It’s worth a shot.”

Chapter Text

Xie Lian adjusted the scarf around his neck as he and Mu Qing made their way through the quiet halls of the academy. The soft crunch of their boots against the snow-dusted courtyard echoed faintly in the crisp winter air that lingered everywhere, even indoors despite the warm lanterns lining the corridors. On Xie Lian’s shoulder, the magical bird fluffed its feathers and let out a soft chirp, its presence a small comfort amidst the tension brewing within him. The vision still weighed heavily on his mind, and he hoped the professors would have answers.

As they approached the area near the professors' offices, the muffled sound of raised voices reached their ears. Turning a corner, they saw Wei Wuxian stepping out of the offices, his ever-present mischievous grin firmly in place. Just as the door shut behind him, Lan Wangji darted in front of him, his posture stiff and his expression as stern as ever.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji began, his voice low but laced with unmistakable irritation. “You cannot keep doing things like this.”

Wei Wuxian tilted his head and feigned innocence. “What? It worked, didn’t it? And no one got hurt. You should be thanking me. You looked beautiful.”

Lan Wangji’s brows furrowed further, his arms crossing tightly over his chest. “You are shameless, you are..." he muttered as the words died in his throat, buried by his anger.

Xie Lian and Mu Qing exchanged a glance but paused to watch the scene unfold. 

Wei Wuxian chuckled, clearly enjoying Lan Wangji’s visible frustration. “Oh, come on, Honour Student Lan. Don’t be mad. You’re even prettier when you’re frowning, but still—”

Lan Wangji cut him off, his voice growing colder. “You are testing my patience. So, I will not be attending the ball.”

That caught Wei Wuxian off guard. His playful grin faltered, replaced by wide eyes and a flash of genuine dismay. “What? You’re not going to the ball? Lan Zhan, come on, don’t do that!”

Lan Wangji didn’t respond. He turned sharply on his heel and began striding down the corridor, his long robes flowing behind him. Wei Wuxian stood frozen for a moment before snapping out of it and chasing after him.

“Lan Zhan! Wait! I’m sorry, okay? I’ll make it up to you! Don’t skip the ball!” Wei Wuxian called, his tone desperate as he darted after Lan Wangji, his earlier humor completely gone.

The two disappeared around a corner, leaving Xie Lian and Mu Qing standing in bemused silence. After a moment, Xie Lian’s bird let out a soft coo, breaking the spell.

“Well,” Mu Qing said dryly, shaking his head as they continued toward the professors’ offices. “Can’t say I didn’t expect something like that happening.”

Xie Lian glanced at him curiously, petting the bird perched on his shoulder. “Wait, do you know what happened? What did Wei Wuxian do this time?”

Mu Qing’s lips twitched, his tone filled with mild exasperation. “Oh, I was there when it happened. It was in the courtyard, right in front of everyone.”

Xie Lian raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What exactly did he do?”

Mu Qing sighed, as if the memory itself was exhausting. “Well, apparently, Wei Wuxian decided Lan Wangji’s formal white robes were too dull for the ball. So he made this ridiculous, over-the-top public declaration about how their outfits should ‘reflect their profound bond.’”

Xie Lian blinked. “Their bond?”

“Yes,” Mu Qing replied flatly. “He conjured an enchanted illusion spell to project what he called their ‘perfect matching outfits’ for the entire courtyard to see. He had himself dressed in this outrageous, fiery red ensemble with gold phoenix embroidery—completely gaudy, by the way—and then made Lan Wangji’s robes change to match his, except in a more subdued theme.”

Xie Lian tilted his head. “That doesn’t sound too terrible.”

Mu Qing gave him a deadpan look. “The problem wasn’t the colors. The problem was that the illusion made their robes look exactly like wedding attire—the kind couples wear during their first wedding night. The entire courtyard noticed immediately.”

Xie Lian’s jaw dropped, and he burst out laughing. “You’re joking.”

“I wish I were,” Mu Qing muttered. “Other students were either laughing their heads off or absolutely scandalized. Heads turned, whispers spread like wildfire, and some even clapped for Wei Wuxian’s ‘wedding'. Meanwhile, Lan Wangji turned bright red.”

Xie Lian clutched his stomach, his laughter spilling out uncontrollably. Even the magical bird on his shoulder chirped brightly, as if joining in the hilarity. “That’s… that’s outrageous! Poor Lan Wangji.”

“Poor everyone who had to witness it,” Mu Qing muttered, rolling his eyes. “And now, because of Wei Wuxian’s ridiculous stunt, Lan Wangji’s refusing to go to the ball.”

Xie Lian shook his head, still laughing softly. “I have to admit, though, that does sound like something only Wei Wuxian could do.”

Mu Qing smirked faintly. 

With that, they approached the professors’ chambers, the laughter fading as they prepared to recount the far more serious matter of Xie Lian’s vision.

The air inside the professors’ chambers was warm and fragrant, the smell of magical winter tea and other hot beverages. The professors were enjoying rare moments of relaxation but Xie Lian’s nerves tightened as he and Mu Qing stepped inside. They were greeted by the curious gazes of their instructors.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Xie Lian recounted the vision once more, his voice steady but tinged with urgency. He described the enchanted ice chandelier, the beautiful ballroom, and the dark figure lurking in the shadows. As he spoke, he could feel the same unease creeping in as it had during the vision itself.

When he finished, the professors exchanged glances. The head of the magical studies department adjusted his glasses and leaned forward slightly, his expression thoughtful but guarded.

“Divination is an imprecise practice,” he began, his voice measured. “While I understand your concern, Xie Lian, you must understand that what you saw may not be a certainty. Divinations often show us possibilities, not guarantees. What you witnessed could be an event from a parallel timeline, a mere echo of something that once happened, or even a projection of your own fears.”

Xie Lian’s brows furrowed, but he didn't argue.

The Divination professor nodded, his tone sympathetic but firm. “That is true. Divination is influenced by many factors. Emotions, subconscious fears, and even latent memories can shape what we see. It’s like peering into a cloudy mirror; the reflections may not always be clear or accurate.”

Mu Qing folded his arms, his expression skeptical.

The headmaster, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally spoke. His voice was calm but carried an air of authority. “No one is suggesting that we ignore it. However, we must approach these matters with caution. Divinations are rarely straightforward, and acting rashly can sometimes do more harm than good.”

Xie Lian felt his frustration bubbling beneath the surface. He wanted to make them understand the gravity of what he had seen, but he knew it would be futile. The professors were set in their ways.

“You are right to bring this to our attention,” the headmaster continued. “We will monitor the situation and take action if necessary. For now, I suggest you focus on your studies and let the matter rest.”

It was a dismissal, plain and simple. Xie Lian clenched his fists at his sides but forced himself to nod. “Thank you, Professors,” he said quietly before turning to leave with Mu Qing.

As they stepped back into the cool evening air, Xie Lian’s mind was still racing. The professors’ explanations hadn’t eased his concerns; if anything, they had only deepened his unease. He glanced at Mu Qing, who was walking beside him, his expression unreadable.

“We can’t just let this go,” Xie Lian said, his voice low but firm. “We need to do something.”

Mu Qing gave a small nod, his gaze steady. “Agreed. Let’s gather the others and figure out our next steps. If the professors won’t take this seriously, we will.”

Xie Lian felt a surge of determination as they walked toward the academy grounds, the magical bird on his shoulder chirping softly in agreement.

Chapter Text

The air was sharp and cold as Xie Lian and Mu Qing arrived at the secluded meeting spot near the greenhouse. The area felt almost untouched, with a soft layer of snow blanketing the ground and frost glittering on the edges of the benches and the frozen fountain in the center. 

Mu Qing glanced at Xie Lian, his breath visible in the frigid air. "I called Lan Wangji, Feng Xin, and Wei Wuxian. Some other students, too."

Before Xie Lian could ask who the "other students" were, a shadow loomed behind them.

Mu Qing spun around, startled, but his exasperation quickly overtook his fear. “Feng Xin! Are you trying to give us a heart attack?”

Feng Xin smirked, pulling back his hood to reveal a mischievous grin. 

Xie Lian chuckled softly, but the sound of approaching footsteps quickly drew their attention. Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian appeared together. And it was evident the "wedding attire" matter wasn't resolved yet. Lan Wangji’s expression was stony, his lips pressed into a thin line, while Wei Wuxian was all smirks and teasing apologies.

“I said I was sorry!” Wei Wuxian protested, nudging Lan Wangji’s arm. “You can’t still be mad, can you?”

Lan Wangji didn’t respond, his piercing gaze focused ahead.

“Fine, I’ll grovel later,” Wei Wuxian sighed dramatically, flashing Xie Lian, Feng Xin and Mu Qing a sheepish smile.

Mu Qing leaned closer to Xie Lian. “Shi Qingxuan is coming too,” he said quietly.

Xie Lian blinked in surprise. “You asked Shi Qingxuan?”

Mu Qing shrugged. “There’s no point hiding this from the Azure Dragons. Shi Qingxuan already knows about your vision. Besides, we’ll need their help.”

As if on cue, Shi Qingxuan arrived, his usual easygoing demeanor intact despite the gravity of the situation. Behind him, Hua Cheng walked silently. The moment Xie Lian’s eyes landed on him, his heartbeat quickened, warmth spreading through his chest despite the chill.

Shi Qingxuan wasn’t alone, though. Two other Azure Dragons accompanied him—He Xuan and Jun Wu, both renowned for their exceptional skills and quiet authority.

“Quite the gathering,” Wei Wuxian remarked, raising an eyebrow.

Xie Lian took a deep breath and began recounting his vision, describing the enchanted ice chandelier crashing to the ground and the dark figure that had appeared. When he finished, he pulled out the trinket from the dark magic shop and held it up for everyone to see.

Shi Qingxuan stepped closer, inspecting it curiously. “What’s this?”

Xie Lian hesitated but eventually explained. “I found this in a dark magic shop. I think it has something to do with the figure I’ve been seeing in my visions.”

Jun Wu’s expression turned serious as he reached for the item. “May I examine it?”

He and He Xuan, along with Lan Wangji, began scrutinizing the trinket. Everyone was watching in silence as they murmured among themselves. Suddenly, Jun Wu’s expression darkened. He dropped the item as though it burned him.

“This is a spirit prison!” Jun Wu said, his voice trembling with urgency.

The words sent a ripple of panic through the group.

“A spirit prison?” Feng Xin asked, his voice rising. “What does that mean?”

Jun Wu looked grim. “It’s an artifact used to trap a soul inside. Whoever made this did so with dark intent.”

The group erupted into chaos.

“We should throw it into the lake!” Mu Qing declared, his voice sharp. “It’s too dangerous to keep.”

“Destroy it!” Feng Xin countered, his fists clenched.

Wei Wuxian stepped forward, his tone casual but his words unsettling. “Guys, calm down. We don’t need to throw it away or destroy it. We can just contact the spirit. I can do it.”

Lan Wangji’s head snapped toward Wei Wuxian, his eyes blazing with anger. “You’ve been practicing necromancy?”

Wei Wuxian gave a cheeky grin. “I may have dabbled a bit…”

Lan Wangji’s fury was evident, his voice a low growl. “That is forbidden, Wei Ying.”

The argument escalated, tension crackling like static. Hua Cheng, who had been silent until now, raised his hand. “Enough,” he said firmly. “Panicking won’t solve anything. Let’s think this through.”

The group quieted, but the tension remained thick.

Xie Lian suddenly spoke, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “Necromancy isn’t inherently evil,” he said, drawing all eyes to him.

The silence that followed was deafening.

“You can’t be serious,” Mu Qing said, his tone disbelieving.

“I used it once,” Xie Lian admitted, his voice softer now. “To talk to my parents.”

The revelation hung in the air, heavy and raw. Everyone stood frozen, exchanging uncertain glances as if unsure how to respond. The soft flicker of lantern light illuminated the varied emotions on their faces—shock, sadness, and understanding.

It was Feng Xin who moved first. Breaking the silence, he stepped forward and placed a firm, reassuring hand on Xie Lian’s shoulder. His usual boisterous demeanor softened, and he offered a gentle squeeze. “You’re not alone, Xie Lian,” Feng Xin said quietly, his voice steady and filled with unwavering loyalty. “We’re here for you, no matter what.”

Xie Lian’s breath hitched, and he glanced at Feng Xin with a faint, grateful smile. The sincerity in his friend’s eyes was like a warm light cutting through the cold.

The gesture seemed to unlock the group’s hesitance. Shi Qingxuan stepped forward next. “He’s right, Xie Lian,” he said, his voice light but full of feeling. “We’re all in this together. You can count on us.”

Lan Wangji inclined his head solemnly, his sharp gaze meeting Xie Lian’s with silent support. Though his words were sparse, his presence spoke volumes. “You have my word,” he said firmly, his hand resting briefly on his sword as if to promise his protection.

Wei Wuxian grew unusually quiet. He looked at Xie Lian with something akin to awe and respect. “It takes guts to say something like that,” he said. Then, with a lopsided grin, he added, “Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Even if it means dealing with angry spirits and ancient artifacts.”

Mu Qing, who had been standing stiffly at Xie Lian’s side, finally let out a soft sigh. Though he often masked his emotions behind sharp words, his expression softened. “You’re stronger than I gave you credit for,” he admitted grudgingly, crossing his arms. “But… Feng Xin’s right. You’re not alone.”

Finally, Hua Cheng stepped closer. His voice was steady, low, and filled with intensity. “I will always stand by your side,” Hua Cheng said, the words simple yet carrying the weight of an unshakable vow.

Their collective decision settled over them like the cold night air. P

“We’ll try to contact the spirit first thing in the morning,” Xie Lian said firmly, his voice calm but resolute. He glanced around at the others, noting the mix of unease and determination on their faces. “It’s too dangerous to act rashly tonight. We need rest, clear minds, and proper preparation.”

Lan Wangji gave a solemn nod, his sharp gaze lingering on Wei Wuxian, who looked intrigued and excited about the task ahead. “We will do this carefully,” Lan Wangji said, his tone laced with warning. “No unnecessary risks.”

Wei Wuxian gave a sheepish grin but raised his hands in mock surrender. “Don’t worry, don’t worry! I’ll behave… mostly.”

Hua Cheng, standing slightly apart, fixed his steady gaze on Xie Lian. “I’ll make sure everything is ready. But remember, Gege, this kind of work can bring unexpected dangers. Promise me you’ll be careful.”

Xie Lian smiled softly, nodding in silent agreement. 

Shi Qingxuan clapped his hands together. “Alright, everyone. Let’s meet at sunrise by the academy lake. We’ll need the open space for this kind of work.”

As the tension in the air began to dissipate, the group gradually dispersed. Feng Xin muttered something about needing to prepare for a "real battle" and trudged off, his fire fox following closely behind, its flames flickering in the snowy night. Mu Qing left shortly after, casting a lingering glance back at Xie Lian before disappearing into the shadows. Lan Wangji, still clearly irritated with Wei Wuxian, pulled him away, their voices fading into the distance as Wei Wuxian tried to charm his way out of further scolding. Shi Qingxuan, He Xuan, and Jun Wu exchanged a few quiet words before departing as well, leaving only Xie Lian and Hua Cheng in the frozen clearing.

Hua Cheng stepped closer to Xie Lian. “Xie Lian,” he said softly, his voice like the warm glow of embers on a winter night. “Stay for a moment. I need to discuss something with you.”

Xie Lian’s heart fluttered, but he nodded. The magical bird on his shoulder chirped quietly before fluttering off to perch on a nearby branch, sensing the need for privacy.

As soon as the others were out of sight, Hua Cheng’s expression softened further. Without a word, he reached out and pulled Xie Lian into his embrace. Xie Lian froze for a moment, caught off guard by the warmth and strength of Hua Cheng’s arms. Slowly, he relaxed, his cheek resting against Hua Cheng’s shoulder.

“Hua Cheng,” Xie Lian murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hua Cheng pulled back slightly, his dark eyes searching Xie Lian’s face for any sign of discomfort. What he found instead was a soft, radiant smile that made his heart ache. Xie Lian hesitated for only a moment before leaning up and pressing a gentle kiss to Hua Cheng’s cheek. Hua Cheng blinked, surprised, but before he could react, Xie Lian tilted his head and kissed him on the lips.

After a long moment, Hua Cheng pulled back just enough to meet Xie Lian’s gaze, his dark eyes filled with a mixture of affection and wonder. Emboldened by the moment, Xie Lian leaned up and pressed a shy kiss to Hua Cheng’s cheek. The soft sound of the kiss seemed to echo in the quiet clearing, and Hua Cheng froze, his expression one of pure surprise.

Before Hua Cheng could say anything, Xie Lian tilted his head slightly and leaned in again, this time pressing his lips to Hua Cheng’s. The kiss was light at first, a delicate brush of warmth and tenderness, as if Xie Lian was testing the waters. Hua Cheng stilled for a heartbeat, as if savoring the moment, and then he responded by deepening the kiss. Softly and slowly, his lips were speaking of affection, of promises unspoken but understood. His fingers threaded gently through Xie Lian’s silky hair.

The magical bird, perched on a nearby branch, let out a cheerful trill as if offering its approval, the sound making Xie Lian smile against Hua Cheng’s lips. Snowflakes swirled gently around them, catching in Hua Cheng’s hair and melting against Xie Lian’s warm cheeks.

Hua Cheng’s hands tightened around Xie Lian’s waist, while Xie Lian’s fingers curled into Hua Cheng’s robes as if afraid to let go.

When they finally pulled apart, their breaths mingling in the cold night air, Hua Cheng rested his forehead against Xie Lian’s. A genuine smile curved his lips. “I was already planning to ask you to accompany me to the dance,” he confessed, his voice low and intimate. “But now I have one more reason. I won’t leave your side, Xie Lian. Not for a moment. I’ll make sure you’re safe.”

Xie Lian’s cheeks flushed, but his gaze was steady as he replied, “We’ll protect each other.”

Hua Cheng’s smile widened, his usual confidence shining through. “Then it’s a deal.”

Chapter Text

The group gathered under the shroud of early morning, the air crisp with the lingering chill of night. Wei Wuxian led them to a clearing near the enchanted forest. The ground was thick with frost, and faint wisps of mist curled around their feet.

“This is the perfect spot for spirit connection,” Wei Wuxian announced, gesturing grandly at the clearing.

Lan Wangji crossed his arms and frowned. “Call it what it is—necromancy. Don’t attempt to soften the truth.” His voice carried a note of disapproval, but his expression betrayed concern.

Wei Wuxian grinned cheekily. “Oh, come on, Lan Zhan. ‘Spirit connection’ sounds more inviting, doesn’t it? Let’s not scare everyone before we even begin.”

Lan Wangji exhaled sharply but said nothing.

Jun Wu and He Xuan moved to opposite sides of the clearing, their movements precise and synchronized. With a murmur of incantations, they cast protective spells around the area, glowing barriers of pale gold and deep blue shimmering faintly as they formed a dome of safety around the group. The spells hummed softly, their presence a quiet reassurance.

“All right, everyone, stay inside the barrier,” Jun Wu instructed, his voice calm and commanding. “It’s designed to keep out any stray energies from the forest.”

Xie Lian knelt beside Wei Wuxian in the center of the clearing. The trinket lay before them on a small cloth, surrounded by symbols drawn in ash. Xie Lian felt a flutter of unease but steadied himself. He glanced at Hua Cheng, who stood nearby, his gaze locked on Xie Lian as if silently vowing to protect him.

“Ready?” Wei Wuxian asked, his tone uncharacteristically serious.

Xie Lian nodded, his fingers brushing the trinket as he closed his eyes. Together, they began the process. Wei Wuxian’s voice dropped into a low chant, the words ancient and resonant, filling the clearing with a strange, vibrating energy. Xie Lian focused on the trinket, his thoughts reaching out like tendrils into the unknown.

The air grew colder, and a faint whisper began to rise, threading through the clearing like a soft, mournful breeze. The mist thickened, swirling into the shape of a woman. She was translucent, her form wavering like smoke caught in the wind. Her face was shadowed, but her voice cut through the silence like the toll of a distant bell—melancholic, haunting, and laced with sorrow.

“Who summons me?” she asked, her tone both accusatory and weary, as though she had been disturbed from an eternal slumber.

“We seek the truth,” Wei Wuxian said, his voice steady but respectful. “What is your name, and why were you bound to this trinket?”

The spirit tilted her head, her expression unreadable. “I have no name… not anymore. The one who imprisoned me took everything—my name, my life, my purpose.” Her voice wavered, heavy with despair.

Xie Lian swallowed, his heart aching for the spirit’s suffering. “We’re trying to stop something terrible. Please, tell us what you know.”

The spirit hesitated, her form flickering as if battling unseen forces. Finally, she spoke, her words cryptic and fragmented, as though recalling a dream.

“There is… a presence,” she said, her voice dropping to a whisper. “It seeks what lies buried beneath the academy… something ancient… something forbidden.”

Wei Wuxian leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “What does it want? What’s buried there?”

The spirit shuddered, her form distorting as though under strain. “A… power… it must not awaken. Beware… beware the shadows. It will consume everything.”

The group exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of her warning sinking in.

“Who is seeking this power?” Xie Lian asked urgently.

The spirit began to fade, her voice growing faint. “A figure cloaked in darkness… hidden… among you…” Her final words echoed in the clearing, chilling them to their core. “Trust… no one…”

Her form dissolved, leaving behind only the eerie silence of the clearing. The protective barrier flickered faintly, its light seeming dimmer in the wake of her presence.

“Well,” Wei Wuxian said after a long pause, breaking the tension with a nervous laugh. “That’s not ominous at all.”

Lan Wangji shot him a sharp look, silencing him instantly.

Xie Lian glanced at the trinket, now lifeless and dull, as if the spirit’s presence had drained it completely. His mind raced with the cryptic warning. A figure cloaked in darkness, hidden among them? The thought sent a shiver down his spine.

“We need to decide what to do next,” Mu Qing said, his voice grim.

Feng Xin crossed his arms, his expression unusually serious. “The academy grounds weren’t always what they are now. A long time ago, this place was a fortress, and beneath it was a temple dedicated to a forgotten deity. The whole area is crisscrossed with underground tunnels. That’s probably what the spirit was talking about.”

Everyone stared at Feng Xin, taken aback by his unexpected knowledge.

Mu Qing arched a brow, the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at his lips. “Well, someone was actually paying attention during history class. I see you’re not so reckless after all.”

Feng Xin scowled, his ears reddening slightly. “I pay attention when it’s important.”

Before anyone could comment further, Shi Qingxuan cleared his throat dramatically, drawing all eyes to him. “Well, it seems I can be of some assistance. I happen to have a map of the tunnels.”

The group collectively froze, their eyes widening in astonishment.

“You have a what?” Mu Qing asked, his usual composure slipping as he stared at Shi Qingxuan.

Shi Qingxuan grinned, clearly enjoying their reactions. “A map. My family collects all sorts of rare artifacts, and this little gem ended up in our archives. I thought it might come in handy someday, so I borrowed it.”

“You stole it,” He Xuan corrected, his tone flat but his eyes sharp.

Shi Qingxuan waved a hand dismissively. “Borrowed, stole—details, details. The point is, I have it.”

Feng Xin was very curious “Why would your family even have a map of the tunnels? And why bring it with you here?”

Shi Qingxuan shrugged nonchalantly. “My family likes to keep tabs on historical sites, and as for why I brought it at the academy… Call it intuition. Turns out I was right.”

Xie Lian, still processing this sudden turn of events, stepped forward. “Can we see it?”

Shi Qingxuan whispered an incantation and summoned the scroll on his hand. It was an old and yellowed parchment, tied with a simple ribbon. He unrolled the scroll on a nearby bench, revealing an intricate network of tunnels and chambers etched in fine detail. The markings were faded but legible, each passage labeled with symbols and annotations in an ancient script.

“This is incredible,” Xie Lian murmured, his fingers tracing one of the tunnels. “It’s like a labyrinth.”

“More like a death trap,” Hua Cheng said, his voice low. “Look at these markings. Some of these tunnels are unstable, and others lead to dead ends. We’d have to be careful.”

Lan Wangji nodded in agreement, his expression grave. “It’s a dangerous path, but if the spirit’s warning is true, we must investigate.”

Wei Wuxian, peering over Xie Lian’s shoulder, let out an excited laugh. “This is going to be fun. Exploring ancient tunnels, uncovering hidden secrets—what’s not to love?”

Lan Wangji shot him a stern look. “This is not a game.”

Wei Wuxian grinned, unfazed. “Of course not, Lan Zhan. It’s an adventure.”

“Focus,” Mu Qing snapped, his patience clearly wearing thin. He turned to Shi Qingxuan. “You believe whatever that dark figure is seeking may be there?”

Shi Qingxuan gave him an innocent look. “I'm almost certain.”

Jun Wu, who had been silent until now, spoke up, his voice calm but authoritative. “If we’re going to use this map, we need to plan carefully. The tunnels could lead us to things we are not prepared for—or to whoever is seeking the power the spirit talked about.”

Xie Lian nodded, his determination hardening. “Then we should start preparing. We’ll set out as soon as we’re ready. If there’s something hidden beneath the academy, we need to find it before the winter ball.”

They all exchanged looks, a mix of excitement, apprehension, and resolve. 

As the group wrapped up their discussion and began making their way back to the academy, Hua Cheng’s eyes lingered on Xie Lian. His steps slowed, and before Xie Lian could notice, Hua Cheng gently reached out and tugged him back, letting the others walk ahead.

“Hua Cheng?” Xie Lian asked, tilting his head in confusion.

Hua Cheng didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he slipped his hand into his uniform pocket and pulled out a small object, holding it out to Xie Lian. It was a delicate ring. Xie Lian’s eyes widened as he took it hesitantly, his fingers brushing Hua Cheng’s.

“Take this,” Hua Cheng said, his voice softer than usual. He lifted his hand to reveal an identical ring on his own finger. “This is so I’ll know you’re safe.”

Xie Lian stared at the ring in his palm, his breath catching as realization dawned. These weren’t just any rings—they were "lovers’ rings", enchanted to alert the wearer if their partner was in danger. The significance of the gesture struck him like lightning, his cheeks immediately flushing a deep red.

“Hua Cheng,” he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. “These… these are—”

“Lovers’ rings,” Hua Cheng finished for him, his expression unwavering. A slight smile tugged at the corner of his lips, though his tone was serious. “I thought about what we are going to risk. I can’t… I won’t take any chances.”

Xie Lian’s heart raced, his fingers trembling slightly as he slid the ring onto his finger. It fit perfectly, the warm, magical aura resonating softly against his skin. His gaze shifted to Hua Cheng, who was watching him with a loving gaze that made his knees weak. He swallowed hard, his chest tightening with emotion. He couldn’t find the words to respond, so instead, he reached out and clasped Hua Cheng’s hand, their matching rings glinting faintly between their fingers.

“Thank you,” Xie Lian whispered finally.

Chapter Text

The group gathered late in the evening in a secluded area near the academy kitchens, as Shi Qingxuan had directed. The kitchens were in the lower part of the academy, their entrance unassuming but busy during the day. Now, it was eerily silent, save for the faint rustling of wind through the cracks of the stone walls.

“This is where the secret door should be,” Shi Qingxuan said, his voice lowered but brimming with excitement. “It leads to the tunnels.”

They began searching for any sign of a hidden door. The walls and floors were examined carefully, but nothing seemed out of place. Frustration mounted until Wei Wuxian stopped, narrowing his eyes at the large bookcase tucked into a shadowy corner.

“It’s behind here,” Wei Wuxian said confidently, tapping the heavy wooden frame.

Mu Qing frowned, stepping forward to inspect it. “There’s no way to confirm that. It could just be an ordinary—”

“Move,” Wei Wuxian interrupted, waving him off. “I can feel residual magic here. This bookcase is the key.”

“Then I’ll remove it with magic,” Mu Qing announced, raising a hand. He muttered a spell under his breath, and the faint shimmer of magical energy surrounded the bookcase—but to no effect.

Wei Wuxian smirked. “Impressive. Maybe it’s anti-magic.”

Mu Qing scowled, glaring at the immovable bookcase. “Fine. Let’s see you do better.”

Feng Xin, who had been quietly observing, stepped forward with a confident grin. “Or we could just try this.” Without waiting for an answer, he planted his hands on the sides of the bookcase and shoved with all his might. The heavy piece of furniture groaned before sliding aside with surprising ease, revealing a stone door carved into the wall behind it.

Mu Qing blinked, momentarily stunned. “You brute,” he muttered, though his tone was less biting than usual.

Feng Xin smirked, dusting his hands. “Not everything needs magic, Mu Qing.”

The door itself was peculiar—smooth, with no visible handles, locks, or hinges. Its surface was covered in faintly glowing ancient runes.

Lan Wangji stepped forward, examining the markings closely. “It’s a riddle,” he said quietly. “A puzzle that requires both incantations and physical interaction to unlock.”

Xie Lian joined him, his brow furrowing as he studied the runes. Together, the two began deciphering the inscriptions, tracing patterns and murmuring incantations that lit up the runes in sequence.

“It’s a logic puzzle,” Xie Lian realized aloud. “These lines connect, but only if we press the right sequence.”

“Here,” Lan Wangji added, pointing to a set of interconnected symbols. “Start here, then move clockwise.”

Bit by bit, they solved the puzzle, the runes glowing brighter with each correct step until, finally, the door rumbled and slid open.

Inside, the tunnel was pitch dark. Above the entrance, faintly etched into the stone, were words forming an old poem:

“Leap of Faith, the path unseen,
In darkness tread, where none have been.
Only the brave may light the way,
To seek the truth, let fears decay.”

The group stared at the poem, uncertainty filling the air. “What does it mean?” Shi Qingxuan asked.

“No idea,” Feng Xin admitted, squinting into the impenetrable blackness ahead.

“It’s a warning,” Mu Qing said grimly. “Or a challenge.”

Before anyone could react, Hua Cheng strode forward without hesitation.

“Hua Cheng!” Xie Lian called out, alarmed as Hua Cheng neared the edge of the visible ground.

Without a word, Hua Cheng leapt into the darkness.

“No!” Xie Lian cried, his heart clenching in fear. He lunged forward, only to be held back by Mu Qing.

“Wait,” Hua Cheng’s voice called from below, calm and steady. “I’m fine.”

The group collectively exhaled in relief as a faint light began to illuminate a platform far below. It rose slowly, lifting Hua Cheng back into view. The light from the platform revealed a safe path through the darkness.

“It’s a test,” Hua Cheng said, his expression as calm as ever. “Follow exactly where I step. Trust me.”

One by one, they followed Hua Cheng, carefully mimicking his every move. Xie Lian’s heart still raced as he stepped onto the platform, but Hua Cheng’s reassuring presence kept his nerves steady.

At the end of the room, they found another tunnel illuminated faintly by glowing runes. The group exchanged glances before pressing onward, the mystery ahead pulling them deeper into the heart of the academy’s secrets.

The tunnel opened into a cavernous underground space, its ceiling arching high above like the belly of a beast. A large, still lake stretched before them.

“This looks... ominous,” He Xuan muttered.

Everyone gathered around the water’s edge, peering into its depths. Despite the stillness of the surface, their reflections rippled faintly as if the water were disturbed by an invisible force.

“There’s something strange about this,” Shi Quingxuan said, narrowing his eyes.

Jun Wu knelt down, inspecting the water more closely. “The reflections... they’re moving even though we are not.”

Xie Lian stepped closer, his gaze fixed on his reflection. His brow furrowed as he noticed something unsettling—the reflected version of himself tilted its head in a way he hadn’t moved.

“Did anyone else see that?” Xie Lian asked, his voice tense.

Before anyone could answer, the reflections began to distort, their features warping until they became unrecognizable. Within moments, the reflections transformed into shadowy figures that rose from the surface of the lake. The shadows hovered for a moment, then flew out in all directions, circling the group like vultures.

“Get ready!” Hua Cheng commanded, his voice firm as he summoned his wand.

The cavern erupted into chaos as the shadowy figures lunged at the group, their formless shapes swirling like black smoke. Each member of the group drew their wands in unison, the air crackling with raw magic as they prepared to defend themselves.

Lan Wangji cast a shimmering shield charm. A shadow collided with the barrier, hissing before dissolving into nothingness.

Jun Wu and He Xuan stood back-to-back, their wands weaving intricate patterns in the air. Jun Wu cast a protective dome around the group, shielding them from a sudden onslaught. He Xuan followed, his spell launching fiery explosions toward the advancing shadows. The cavern walls shuddered with the force of his magic, debris scattering as the shadows shrieked and recoiled.
Wei Wuxian flourished his wand with a smirk, spinning it between his fingers before pointing it at a group of shadows. A burst of brilliant white light shot from his wand, sending the shadows recoiling with high-pitched screeches. “See? It’s just like herding cats!”

“Don’t get cocky!” Mu Qing snapped, his wand emitting streaks of icy blue light. The spell struck a shadow mid-flight, freezing it into an intricate sculpture of black ice that shattered upon hitting the ground.

Shi Qingxuan swirled his wand in a wide arc. A gust of wind roared through the cavern, scattering the shadows like leaves in a storm. The wind made their lanterns flicker precariously, but it bought the group precious moments to regroup.

Feng Xin didn’t waste time with flair. His spell exploded on impact, scattering the dark smoke in every direction. His fiery fox companion darted alongside him, snapping at any lingering wraiths with bursts of flame.

Xie Lian sidestepped an incoming shadow, his wand slashing through the air. A streak of fire shot forward, illuminating the cavern in a warm, golden glow as it engulfed the shadow. It wailed before disintegrating into ash.

Hua Cheng moved like a phantom. His spells struck three shadows with pinpoint precision, obliterating them into wisps of black smoke. He turned to Xie Lian. “Stay close to me.”

Xie Lian nodded, his heart pounding as he deflected another shadow. The stunning spell sent the creature spiraling back into the lake, where it dissipated.

Despite their best efforts, the shadows kept coming, their numbers seemingly endless. “There’s too many of them!” Shi Qingxuan yelled, his voice tinged with desperation.

“They’re drawn to us, but they’re coming from the lake!” Xie Lian shouted, pointing to the shimmering surface where the glowing rune pulsed ominously.

“Then we take out the source!” Hua Cheng growled, deflecting a shadow with a casual flick of his wand.

“Cover me!” he called out, breaking from the group and charging toward the lake’s edge.

Lan Wangji raised his wand. His spell disrupted the shadows nearest to Hua Cheng, giving him a clear path.

The others followed suit, firing a barrage of spells to hold the shadows at bay. 

Hua Cheng reached the lake and raised his wand high. A crimson wave of energy rippled across the water, striking the rune in its center.

The rune cracked with a deafening noise, and a blinding light filled the cavern. 

“Well,” Shi Qingxuan said, lowering his wand with a shaky breath. “That was... absolutely terrifying.”

“Good work, everyone,” Lan Wangji said, his voice steady but his knuckles white around his wand. “But we must remain cautious."

Xie Lian glanced at Hua Cheng, who was already at his side. “You okay?” Hua Cheng asked quietly, his wand now lowered.

Xie Lian nodded, giving him a faint smile. “Thanks to you.”

As the cavern fell silent and the light faded away, a strange sound echoed—a ripple, like water draining away. The group turned their attention back to the lake, their wands raised cautiously. To their astonishment, the shimmering surface of the water began to shift and distort, ripples spreading outward as if something unseen disturbed it.

Then, with a soft hiss, the entire lake started to vanish. The water seemed to collapse in on itself, swirling into a vortex before evaporating into thin air. What had appeared to be a vast, still lake was nothing more than an elaborate illusion, leaving the ground beneath it exposed.

In the center of the now-dry lakebed, a single object glimmered faintly. The object rested on a pedestal of dark stone.

The object itself was small but striking—a golden orb cradled within the claws of a black iron frame. The frame was shaped like twisted roots or talons, holding the orb as if protecting or imprisoning it. The orb glowed faintly, its surface swirling with an iridescent light that seemed alive, shifting between colors like trapped fireflies.

Xie Lian took a step closer, his voice low and cautious. “What... is that?”

The group exchanged wary glances before steeling themselves to move forward, their wands still at the ready. 

They gathered around the pedestal, each of their faces illuminated by the shifting light of the golden orb. 

Lan Wangji stepped closer to the pedestal, inspecting the runes etched into the stone. His brow furrowed. “These are binding runes, but also protective. They’re meant to keep something contained—or keep it from being touched.”

Wei Wuxian crouched beside him, his curiosity barely restrained. “Fascinating! It’s like a magical vault. But whatever’s inside… it feels restless, doesn’t it?”

Shi Qingxuan crossed his arms, his usual humor subdued. “Restless or not, we shouldn’t linger. If this is tied to the dark presence, we’re already in over our heads.”

Xie Lian studied the orb closely but didn’t dare reach for it. “We can’t leave it here. Someone else might find it—it could fall into the wrong hands.”

Hua Cheng, standing protectively at Xie Lian’s side, nodded. “He’s right. Whatever this is, it’s better off in the professors’ hands. They’ll know what to do.”

The group exchanged uncertain glances, clearly uneasy about the artifact’s ominous energy.

“Who’s going to take it?” Mu Qing asked bluntly, his arms crossed.

“Well, it should be someone skilled enough to handle it if something goes wrong,” Feng Xin said, looking around the group. “And someone the professors actually trust.”

Shi Qingxuan smirked. “That narrows it down.”

Lan Wangji opened his mouth, but Jun Wu raised a hand calmly. “I’ll take it.”

Everyone turned to him.

Jun Wu continued, his voice steady and authoritative. “I have studied most types of artifacts extensively, and I’m confident I can keep it safe. I also have a good rapport with the professors. They’ll listen to me.”

Lan Wangji nodded in agreement. “He’s the most logical choice. His skills are unmatched when it comes to enchanted objects, and he knows how to approach this delicately.”

Mu Qing looked skeptical but relented with a sigh. “Fine. But take it to the professors' offices first thing tomorrow. This thing gives me the creeps.”

Hua Cheng glanced at Jun Wu. “If you’re taking it, don’t go alone. The energy surrounding this object isn’t natural. It might draw attention.”

“I’ll accompany him if necessary,” Lan Wangji offered, though his gaze lingered suspiciously on Wei Wuxian, as if daring him to suggest otherwise.

Jun Wu inclined his head respectfully. “Thank you, but I can manage. If anything happens, I’ll send for help immediately.”

The group stood in tense silence as Jun Wu carefully lifted the glowing orb from its pedestal and wrapped it in a protective cloth, its golden light dimming but still visible. 

“Let’s move,” Jun Wu said.

Everyone nodded in agreement. Hua Cheng kept close to Xie Lian as they began their trek back through the tunnels.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Winter Ball had transformed the academy's grand hall. Frosted garlands twined around gilded pillars, and crystal chandeliers hung like cascading icicles, reflecting the soft glow of thousands of floating tiny lights. The soft strains of an enchanted orchestra reached Xie Lian's ears, their melodies weaving through the room like a spell. Snowflake charms floated lazily from the vaulted ceiling, disappearing just before they touched the ground, leaving a faint shimmer of stardust in their wake.

Guests arrived dressed in their finest, masks of every shape and color concealing their identities. The students twirled across the marble floor, their robes glittering, movement and laughter was heard from every corner of the academy.

Xie Lian stood at the entrance, his heart beating fast beneath his white robes. The delicate silk shifted with his every breath, catching the light in iridescent patterns. His mask, crafted with intricate silver filigree, framed his delicate features, lending him an air of ethereal beauty.

Believe it or not, Xie Lian could spot Feng Xin and Mu Qing amidst the crowd from a distance—if not by sight, then certainly by sound. Their bickering cut through the enchanting music of the ball like a familiar, if endearing, squabble. Mu Qing had his arms crossed, his tone sharp as he scolded Feng Xin. “That’s the seventh tanghulu you’ve eaten tonight! Do you even know what moderation is? Or are you planning to roll out of here?”

Feng Xin, holding the skewered candied hawthorns like a prize, shot back with a smirk. “Why don’t you mind your own plate of…whatever bland thing you’re nibbling on over there? Bitter melon? Let me enjoy my night.”

Even in their finest robes and masks, the dynamic between Feng Xin and Mu Qing was as familiar and comforting as a warm hearth on a cold night.

Perched on Xie Lian's shoulder, his magical bird chirped cheerfully, its feathers puffed with excitement. Xie Lian reached up to stroke it gently, a smile tugging at his lips. The bird suddenly spotted Feng Xin’s little fire fox, who was bounding through the hall, its fiery glow illuminating the floor around it. With a delighted trill, the bird leapt from Xie Lian’s shoulder, fluttering away to join the fox.

Amused, Xie Lian watched the two magical creatures play, his gaze momentarily distracted until he felt a firm, familiar hand slip into his. He turned, his breath catching.

A man in a deep red robe stood before him, his mask of black and crimson covering the top half of his face. Despite the disguise, Xie Lian immediately recognized him. His heart skipped as Hua Cheng tilted his head slightly, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Without a word, Hua Cheng led Xie Lian onto the dance floor. Xie Lian’s robes, sensitive to his emotions, began to shift. Soft red blooms unfurled along the white fabric, spreading like fire until his entire robe was a vibrant crimson, perfectly matching Hua Cheng’s attire.

Hua Cheng pulled out a sword, its jeweled hilt glittering like a constellation. He handed another one to Xie Lian, its silver edge glowing faintly with enchantment.

The orchestra struck a powerful note, and the crowd fell silent, forming a wide circle around the pair. Hua Cheng took his stance, his blade catching the light. Xie Lian mirrored him, their movements in perfect harmony as they began the sword dance.

The dance was a mesmerizing blend of grace and power. Their swords moved like extensions of their bodies, slicing through the air with precision as their feet wove intricate patterns across the floor. Magic flowed through the blades, trailing ribbons of light that painted the space around them with swirling colors.

The audience watched, spellbound, as the two men moved in sync, their every step a conversation, their every strike a declaration. Sparks flew where their swords met, showering the floor in bursts of light.

As the music reached its crescendo, they spun apart, their blades raised high. With a final, unified motion, they threw their swords into the air. The weapons ascended, spinning and colliding in a brilliant burst of magic. The room was suddenly filled with red rose petals, cascading down like snow.

The petals were no ordinary roses. Known as Winter Roses, they bloomed only in the coldest landscapes and symbolized the fire of one’s heart burning even in the harshest conditions. The petals drifted around Xie Lian and Hua Cheng, a sea of crimson against the shimmering hall.

Xie Lian stood frozen, his chest rising and falling as he gazed at Hua Cheng through the veil of petals. Hua Cheng’s dark eyes met his, steady and unwavering.

The depth of his feelings for Hua Cheng was overwhelming. His heart felt too full, too fragile. Without thinking, he turned and fled, the petals scattering in his wake.

Gasps filled the hall as Xie Lian ran toward the open balconies, his robes flowing behind him like a crimson river. Hua Cheng didn’t hesitate. With a determined look, he followed, leaving the crowd to murmur in confusion and curiosity.

The balconies were blanketed in snow, the cold air biting against Xie Lian’s flushed cheeks. He sprinted across the icy floor, his feet barely touching the ground. Hua Cheng ran right behind him.

But Xie Lian didn’t stop. He vaulted over the balcony railing, landing gracefully in the snowy gardens below. Pure white snow stretched out before him, untouched and serene, his only companion the sound of his own racing heartbeat.

Hua Cheng leapt after him, his boots crunching against the snow as he landed. Xie Lian slowed, his breath visible in the frosty air, until finally, he stopped in a secluded corner of the garden where no one could see them.

Hua Cheng reached him, his breaths coming fast but steady. Before Xie Lian could say a word, Hua Cheng pulled him into his arms. The warmth of his embrace melted the cold that clung to Xie Lian’s skin.

“Even if you ran to the ends of the earth, I would follow you,” Hua Cheng murmured, his voice low and filled with emotion. 

Xie Lian tilted his head back, his mask completely askew, revealing the raw vulnerability in his eyes. He reached up, his fingers trembling, and gently cupped Hua Cheng’s face.

“Stay with me tonight,” Xie Lian whispered, his voice barely audible. “Tonight and always.”

Hua Cheng smiled, taking off his own mask to reveal the tenderness in his gaze. Slowly, Xie Lian leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Hua Cheng’s cheek.

It wasn’t enough.

Hua Cheng turned his head, capturing Xie Lian’s lips with his own. The kiss was slow, filled with unspoken promises and emotions too vast for words. Xie Lian’s hands clung to Hua Cheng’s robes, pulling him closer as their breaths mingled in the frosty air.

Around them, the snow continued to fall.