Grandmaster of Heavenly Charm

Nestled deep within the mountains outside Gusu City, the Lan Clan's ancestral home, Cloud Recesses, stood as a testament to ethereal beauty and spiritual tranquility. Its name, "Yun Shen Bu Zhi Chu" - a place so deep in the clouds that its location remains unknown - perfectly captured its essence.

As dawn broke, a misty veil enveloped the sprawling complex of elegant pavilions and meandering gardens. The white walls and dark-tiled roofs of the buildings seemed to float amidst the sea of clouds, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that blurred the line between the mortal realm and the abode of immortals.

The early morning silence was profound, broken only by the rhythmic tolling of distant bells emanating from the highest towers. Despite not being a Buddhist monastery, Cloud Recesses exuded a sense of Zen-like serenity that permeated every corner of its grounds. Disciples and students, accustomed to this tranquil environment, went about their morning routines of studying and practicing swordmanship with quiet dedication.

However, this carefully cultivated peace was suddenly shattered by a long, mournful wail that echoed through the mountain air. The unexpected sound caused many of the cultivators to start, their concentration broken as they instinctively turned their gaze towards the main gate where the commotion originated.

There, at the entrance to Cloud Recesses, a peculiar scene unfolded. Wei Wuxian, the infamous Yiling Patriarch, was sprawled dramatically on the ground, his arms wrapped tightly around a rather bewildered-looking flower-patterned donkey. His cries of despair echoed off the stone walls, causing more than a few raised eyebrows among the onlookers.

Lan Jingyi, one of the younger Lan disciples, couldn't contain his exasperation. "What are you crying about?!" he exclaimed, his voice a mixture of annoyance and disbelief. "Weren't you the one who said you liked Hanguang-Jun? Now that he's brought you back, what's there to wail about?"

Wei Wuxian paused his theatrics momentarily to shoot Lan Jingyi a pitiful look, his face the very picture of woe. "You don't understand!" he whined, burying his face in the donkey's mane. "I never asked to be brought here!"

Indeed, Wei Wuxian's predicament was more complex than it appeared on the surface. The events at Dafan Mountain had unfolded so rapidly that he had been left with no opportunity to summon Wen Ning again or investigate the ghost's sudden loss of consciousness. Even more perplexing was Wen Ning's unexpected reappearance in the mortal realm. Before Wei Wuxian could begin to unravel these mysteries, he found himself unceremoniously whisked away to Cloud Recesses by the stoic Lan Wangji.

As a youth, Wei Wuxian had spent three months studying at Cloud Recesses, and the memory of its stifling atmosphere and countless rules still filled him with dread. The infamous wall of discipline, etched with over three thousand rules when he last saw it, now boasted an additional thousand precepts. The very thought of being confined within these strict boundaries again made Wei Wuxian shudder.

Lan Jingyi, growing increasingly irritated by the continued disruption, snapped, "Enough already! Silence is golden in Cloud Recesses, remember?"

This admonishment only served to fuel Wei Wuxian's determination. It was precisely because he didn't want to enter Cloud Recesses that he was making such a ruckus. Once inside, he knew escape would be nearly impossible. He recalled the jade tokens given to visiting disciples years ago, necessary for passing through the spiritual barriers surrounding the complex. He could only imagine how much more stringent the security measures had become in the intervening years.

Throughout this commotion, Lan Wangji stood impassively at the gate, seemingly oblivious to the chaos unfolding before him. His golden eyes, as calm and inscrutable as ever, observed Wei Wuxian's antics with detached interest. When Wei Wuxian's cries finally began to subside, Lan Wangji spoke, his voice as cool and composed as a mountain stream:

"Let him cry. When he tires, bring him inside."

This pronouncement only intensified Wei Wuxian's despair. He clutched the donkey even tighter, resting his forehead against its neck as he continued to sob dramatically. The absurdity of his situation was not lost on him. He had thought that after surviving Zidian's lash, any suspicions about him would have been dispelled. In a moment of misplaced confidence, coupled with his habitually flippant nature, he had teasingly flirted with Lan Wangji. To his shock, the Second Jade of Lan had responded in a completely unexpected manner.

"Has his cultivation made his heart grow narrower instead of broader?" Wei Wuxian wondered incredulously.

In a last-ditch effort to dissuade his captors, Wei Wuxian raised his head and declared with mock seriousness, "You know, I have a thing for men. With so many handsome gentlemen in your clan, I'm afraid I won't be able to control myself!"

Lan Sizhui, ever the voice of reason, attempted to explain the situation calmly. "Young Master Mo, Hanguang-Jun has brought you here for your own protection. If you hadn't come with us, Sect Leader Jiang wouldn't have let the matter rest. Over the years, countless people have been taken to Lotus Pier for interrogation, and none have ever returned."

Lan Jingyi, unable to resist adding his own commentary, chimed in, "That's right. You haven't seen Sect Leader Jiang's methods, have you? They're utterly ruthless..." He paused, suddenly remembering the rule against gossiping. Glancing nervously at Lan Wangji and seeing no sign of disapproval, he continued in a lower voice, "It's all because of the bad influence left by the Yiling Patriarch. So many people trying to emulate his unorthodox methods instead of cultivating properly. And Sect Leader Jiang, always suspicious... He can't possibly detain everyone, can he? Besides, just look at you. The way you play that flute... Heh."

That final scoff spoke volumes. Wei Wuxian felt compelled to defend himself, "Hey now, you might not believe it, but I'm actually quite skilled with the flute under normal circumstances..."

Before he could finish his explanation, a group of white-robed cultivators emerged from the main gate. They were clad in the distinctive uniform of the Lan Clan, their flowing robes as pristine as freshly fallen snow. Leading them was a tall, elegant figure who, in addition to the sword at his waist, carried a white jade xiao.

Upon seeing this man, even the implacable Lan Wangji inclined his head slightly in respect, a gesture that was reciprocated. The newcomer's gaze then fell upon Wei Wuxian, a gentle smile gracing his features. "Wangji rarely brings guests home," he observed. "And who might this be?"

As the man stood facing Lan Wangji, the resemblance between them was striking, almost like looking at a reflection in a mirror. The only noticeable difference lay in their eyes - while Lan Wangji's were a pale, almost translucent shade reminiscent of fine porcelain, the other man's were a deeper, warmer hue that radiated kindness and serenity.

This was none other than Lan Xichen, the Sect Leader of the Gusu Lan Clan and the renowned Zewu-Jun.

It was often said that the environment shapes its inhabitants, and the Lan Clan was living proof of this adage. Long renowned for producing exceptional beauties, the current generation's Twin Jades of Lan were particularly outstanding. Despite not being twins, the two brothers shared such a striking similarity in their appearance that it was difficult to determine who was more handsome. However, their demeanors couldn't have been more different. Where Lan Xichen exuded warmth and gentle grace, Lan Wangji was the epitome of cold aloofness, his stern countenance keeping others at arm's length. It was for this reason that in the unofficial rankings of young masters in the cultivation world, Lan Xichen claimed the top spot, with Lan Wangji following closely in second place.

True to his reputation as a consummate sect leader, Lan Xichen didn't bat an eye at the sight of Wei Wuxian clinging to a flower-patterned donkey. Wei Wuxian, sensing an opportunity, released his grip on the animal and stepped forward with a mischievous grin. He knew that the Lan Clan placed great importance on seniority and propriety; if he could just provoke them with a few choice words, surely they would have no choice but to expel him from Cloud Recesses.

However, just as he opened his mouth to unleash what he was sure would be a masterful performance of impropriety, Lan Wangji fixed him with a single, penetrating gaze. To Wei Wuxian's shock and dismay, he found himself suddenly unable to part his lips, as if they had been sealed shut by some invisible force.

Unperturbed by this silent exchange, Lan Wangji turned back to his brother and inquired with his characteristic solemnity, "Brother, are you on your way to meet with Lianfang-Zun again?"

Lan Xichen nodded, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Yes, we're to discuss the arrangements for the next discussion conference at Carp Tower."

Frustrated by his magical muteness, Wei Wuxian sulkily retreated to the side of his donkey companion.

The Lianfang-Zun they spoke of was none other than Jin Guangyao, the current leader of the Lanling Jin Clan. He was the only illegitimate son acknowledged by Jin Guangshan, and the uncle of Jin Ling. More importantly to Wei Wuxian's current situation, Jin Guangyao was also the half-brother of Mo Xuanyu, the body Wei Wuxian now inhabited.

The contrast between their fates was stark. While Mo Xuanyu had been relegated to sleeping on cold stone floors and surviving on scraps at the Mo estate, Jin Guangyao had risen to one of the highest positions in the cultivation world. He now wielded enough influence that even the esteemed Zewu-Jun would seek his counsel for important matters like the discussion conference.

Of course, the close relationship between the Lan and Jin clan leaders was hardly surprising, given that they were sworn brothers. Still, the inequality of it all didn't escape Wei Wuxian's notice.

Lan Xichen's voice drew Wei Wuxian from his musings. "The items you brought back from the Mo estate, Wangji - Uncle has taken a look at them."

At the mention of the Mo estate, Wei Wuxian's ears perked up, even as he found the invisible seal on his lips suddenly lift. Lan Xichen, noticing Wei Wuxian's renewed ability to speak, turned to Lan Wangji with a gentle admonishment:

"It's rare for you to bring a guest home, and you seem pleased about it. We must treat our visitors with proper courtesy, Wangji."

Pleased? Wei Wuxian scrutinized Lan Wangji's impassive face carefully. How on earth could anyone discern pleasure from that stoic visage?

As Lan Xichen took his leave, Lan Wangji's next words sent a chill down Wei Wuxian's spine:

"Take him inside."

And so, despite his vehement protests and dramatic pleas, Wei Wuxian found himself being forcibly escorted into the very place he had sworn never to set foot in again.

The young Lan disciples, unused to such an unorthodox guest, pushed and jostled around Wei Wuxian with barely concealed excitement. Had it not been for the strict rules of conduct ingrained in them, the path would surely have been filled with the sound of their laughter and chatter.

As they made their way deeper into Cloud Recesses, Lan Jingyi voiced the question on everyone's mind: "Hanguang-Jun, where are we taking him?"

Lan Wangji's reply was as succinct as ever: "The Jingshi."

A collective gasp of surprise rippled through the group. "The... Jingshi?!"

Wei Wuxian, still oblivious to the significance of this decision, looked around in confusion. The other disciples, however, exchanged wide-eyed glances, not daring to voice their thoughts aloud.

For the Jingshi was Lan Wangji's personal sanctuary - his private study and bedchamber combined. It was a place where even other members of the Lan Clan rarely, if ever, set foot.

The Jingshi was a study in elegant simplicity. As Wei Wuxian was ushered inside, he couldn't help but marvel at the stark contrast between the room's austere beauty and the chaos of his own living spaces.

The chamber was devoid of unnecessary ornamentation, each item carefully chosen and placed with purpose. A large folding screen dominated one wall, adorned with an exquisite ink painting of clouds that seemed to drift and change as if by magic. Before it stood a guqin table, its polished surface reflecting the soft light that filtered through the paper windows.

In one corner, a three-legged incense table held a white jade censer, intricately carved with delicate openwork patterns. Wisps of fragrant smoke curled upwards, filling the room with the cool, crisp scent of sandalwood. The aroma was subtle yet pervasive, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that even the restless Wei Wuxian couldn't help but respond to.

As Lan Wangji left to discuss important matters with his uncle, Wei Wuxian found himself alone in this haven of serenity. However, true to his nature, he wasted no time in attempting to escape. He slipped out of the Jingshi and made a quick circuit of Cloud Recesses, only to confirm what he had already suspected: without a jade token, escape was impossible. Even scaling the high white walls proved futile, as he was immediately repelled by the spiritual barrier and quickly drew the attention of nearby patrols.

Resigned, Wei Wuxian returned to the Jingshi. Despite the setback, his mind was already working on potential solutions. He never truly panicked in any situation, always believing that a way out would present itself eventually. As he paced back and forth in the room, hands clasped behind his back, the soothing scent of sandalwood continued to permeate the air.

"So this is the fragrance that clings to Lan Zhan," Wei Wuxian mused, a small smile playing on his lips. "It must seep into his robes as he sits here, practicing the guqin or meditating."

This idle thought drew him closer to the incense table in the corner. As he approached, he noticed something peculiar about the floorboards beneath his feet. One plank felt distinctly different from the others. Intrigued, Wei Wuxian knelt down and began tapping on the wooden floor, his ear pressed close to listen for any telltale hollow sounds.

Years of grave-robbing and tunnel-digging had honed his skills in detecting hidden spaces. Within moments, he managed to pry up one of the floorboards, revealing a secret compartment beneath. What he found inside left him utterly astonished.

As the board lifted, a new aroma mingled with the sandalwood, one that had been expertly masked until now. In the small, square cache lay seven or eight rotund, jet-black ceramic jars, nestled tightly together.

"Well, well," Wei Wuxian chuckled to himself. "It seems our righteous Hanguang-Jun has indeed changed. Hiding alcohol, of all things!"

The irony wasn't lost on him. Cloud Recesses strictly prohibited alcohol, a rule that had led to his very first confrontation with Lan Wangji. During that initial meeting, Lan Wangji had knocked over a jar of "Emperor's Smile" that Wei Wuxian had smuggled up from Caiyi Town.

After returning to Lotus Pier from his studies in Gusu, Wei Wuxian had never again had the chance to taste the famous "Emperor's Smile," a liquor unique to the region. He had often spoken of returning one day to savor it again, but the opportunity had never arisen. Now, without even needing to open the jars, he recognized the distinct aroma – it was undoubtedly "Emperor's Smile."

"Who would have thought," Wei Wuxian mused, a mischievous glint in his eye, "that the day would come when I'd discover the ever-proper, teetotaling Lan Zhan hiding a stash of alcohol in his own room? Truly, the heavens have a sense of humor."

Unable to resist the temptation, Wei Wuxian helped himself to one of the jars, savoring every sip of the potent liquor. His exceptional tolerance for alcohol, coupled with his fondness for drink, soon led him to rationalize opening a second jar. "After all," he reasoned, "Lan Zhan still owes me for that first jar he spilled. After all these years, some interest is only fair."

As he indulged in the smooth, fragrant wine, a sudden idea struck him. The issue of the jade token might not be as insurmountable as he had initially thought. Within Cloud Recesses, there was a secluded area housing cold springs, used by the male disciples of the Lan clan for cultivation purposes. These springs were said to have remarkable properties, including the ability to calm the mind and suppress excessive yang energy.

"Of course!" Wei Wuxian exclaimed, nearly spilling his drink in excitement. "They must remove their clothes to enter the springs. They can't possibly keep hold of their jade tokens while bathing!"

Pleased with his cleverness, Wei Wuxian finished the last of the wine in his current jar. Finding no suitable place to dispose of the empty containers, he filled them with water, carefully resealed them, and returned them to their hiding place, making sure to replace the floorboard exactly as he had found it.

With his plan in mind, Wei Wuxian set out to locate the cold springs. Although Cloud Recesses had been destroyed and rebuilt after the Sunshot Campaign, its layout remained largely unchanged. Navigating the winding paths with the confidence of familiarity, he soon found himself approaching the secluded area where the springs were located.

To his delight, the security around the springs was minimal. The female disciples had their own separate bathing area, and the very idea of anyone spying on the male cultivators was so unthinkable within the strict confines of Cloud Recesses that little effort had been made to guard against such impropriety. This lax security played perfectly into Wei Wuxian's admittedly unscrupulous plan.

As he crept closer, he spotted a set of neatly folded white robes resting on a stone slab partially hidden by clumps of orchids. The garments were arranged with such meticulous precision that Wei Wuxian almost felt guilty as he began to search through them for a jade token. Even the forehead ribbon was folded with painstaking care.

His search was interrupted when his gaze drifted past the orchids to the spring itself. The cold water, free from the obscuring steam of hot springs, offered a clear view of its sole occupant. Wei Wuxian's breath caught in his throat as his eyes locked onto the figure in the water.

The man in the spring cut an impressive figure. Tall and lean, with skin as pale as jade and long, wet black hair cascading down one shoulder, he presented an image of classical beauty. The smooth lines of his back spoke of both grace and strength, a testament to years of rigorous cultivation.

Yet it wasn't the man's beauty that held Wei Wuxian transfixed. It was what marred that perfect skin that shocked him to his core.

Crisscrossing the man's back were dozens of scars, their pattern unmistakable to Wei Wuxian's experienced eye. These were the marks left by a discipline whip, a tool used in cultivation sects to punish severe transgressions. The wounds inflicted by such a whip never fully healed, leaving permanent scars as a lifelong reminder of one's misdeeds.

Wei Wuxian had never felt the sting of a discipline whip himself, but he had seen its effects on Jiang Cheng. He knew all too well how these marks of shame resisted all attempts at removal or concealment. The sight before him now was far worse than anything he had witnessed before.

Typically, one or two lashes from a discipline whip were considered a harsh punishment, enough to ensure the offender would never forget their mistake. The back before him bore the marks of at least thirty lashes, possibly more. Wei Wuxian's mind raced, trying to imagine what grievous offense could have warranted such brutal punishment. And yet, if the crime had been truly unforgivable, wouldn't execution have been the more likely outcome?

As these thoughts whirled through his mind, the man in the spring turned, unknowingly revealing more to his hidden observer. Wei Wuxian's eyes widened as he caught sight of a clear, unmistakable brand just below the collarbone, near the heart.