Most warprizeji fics have either YLLZ going That One I Want That One and sweeping LWJ off his feet after LWJ thought he’d be treated like shit, or LWJ being offered up to a YLLZ who is suspicious of his new bride and suspects assassination attempts or something only for the two to mutually fall in love anyway, and I love both of those flavors! However, please consider:
The sects all bully Lan into giving up LWJ as a war prize, LWJ is escorted (forced) to the Burial Mounds by representatives from Every Sect, and YLLZ takes one look at this new “gift” before absolutely fucking popping off because That Is A Person!! A Human Being!! What The Fuck Is Wrong With All Of You?!? Get Off My Mountain.
And LWJ is left standing there, watching this actually very beautiful and powerful man absolutely rip the other sects a new asshole for basically trying to sell him a slave, thinking “... Maybe I DO want to tap that.”
Only YLLZ has sent him away! He has forbidden the sects from ever trying anything like this again! Seriously, What Is Wrong With All Of You?
(Yunmeng Jiang, the only ones who were not involved, are all quietly smug about the whole thing. We told you he wouldn’t go for it.)
Not two weeks after returning to Gusu a caravan shows up outside cloud recesses, from the Yiling Wei Sect, carrying gifts for LWJ and his family and his sect as an apology for whatever the fuck that was, and a promise that if anybody tries to do anything like that again, they can reach out to Yiling Wei and YLLZ will come make damn sure nobody is going anywhere or doing anything they don’t actually want to be doing.
... LWJ definitely wants to tap that.
He ends up writing back a thank you letter to YLLZ, who responds in kind with reassurances that no thanks are necessary and seriously dude are you okay cause that was A Lot.
LWJ writes another letter, promising he’s returned safely and happily to his home, and his brother and uncle have been very clingy and overprotective but things are settling down again.
YLLZ writes him back.
LWJ writes him back.
Suddenly they’ve been pen pals for the better part of two years and LWJ has finally convinced WY to come visit him in Gusu so he can properly begin Operation: Seduce The Yiling Patriarch.
The operation goes much smoother than expected, because it turns out YLLZ never actually saw his face last time. LWJ had been wearing a veil. So poor unsuspecting WWX rolls up to Gusu to come hang out with his buddy LWJ who he’s been sending letters to pretty consistently since the whole War Prize Fiasco only to come face to face with the most beautiful man to ever walk the earth.
WY immediately decides to begin Operation: Seduce Hanguang-Jun.
A week later they’re getting caught making out in the library like randy teenagers.
Xichen does Not say I Told You To to Lan Qiren. Lan Qiren hears it anyway.
(Forced mating CW, but not in the way you'd think. Unless you exclusively read my fics, in which case...yeah. Exactly how you think.)
Wei Wuxian first sighted Lan er gongzi through a halo of flame, as the green hills around him shrivelled in the venomous embrace of oil fire. He limped as he ran, face scrunched in pain with eyes watering from the particles of floating ash that surrounded him.
Despite his bedraggled appearance, Wei Wuxian knew immediately that this was the omega he sought. The one he'd been sent to hunt.
Lan er gongzi stumbled through the forest pitifully before him, swift even as he was doubled over in pain. As he ran, his midnight hair whipped out behind him in a silken sail, glinting auburn in the flame-light. The pale ribbon tied in his hair fluttered stark against the burning backdrop, playfully beckoning the alpha forward after it. Wei Wuxian was in no position to deny his instincts when it came to this, and so in one swift movement, he mounted his sword, and took chase.
From so far away Lan er gongzi's omega scent was muted, suppressed by layers of burning undergrowth, and the stench of boiling fauna. A small fraction of it clung to the ash hanging in the stale air, still, and managed to drift over on the wind to the hunting alpha. It tickled the back of his nose, overripe and so sweet with terror it made his stomach curl in apprehension - as if he, too, had something to fear. In a sense, he supposed he did. No sane man with nothing to lose would round an injured omega deeper into the flames. Not unless he was coerced.
Still, the omega's fear invaded his senses, leaving him clumsy and lightheaded with it. He felt the ridiculous urge to flee away from his prey with a ferocity he'd never before felt - not since he was a street child with his own fanged pursuers to contend with. Wei Wuxian ignored the ill-begotten sensation clawing up within his chest, and drove the omega deeper into the primordial heart of the forest.
Whether Lan er gongzi was afraid or not - whether he wished be here, complicit in the destruction of the scholarly heart of the jianghu, or not - he had Wen Xu's orders to obey. The heir of Nightless City had shown favour to Wei Wuxian thus far, but it was folly to believe a tyrant would be kind to those who'd failed him.
With a sword at his pursuer's command, it soon became clear the Lan omega could not run fast enough. As he stumbled through a smouldering thicket, Wei Wuxian's arms wrapped around his waist from above, lifting him into the air and drawing him onto the alpha's blade.
Lan er gongzi fought. He lashed out with nails and teeth, wheeling his shaking, leaden legs in frantic circles to unbalance Suibian from beneath Wei Wuxian's feet. The blade wavered in the air, even as the alpha's grasp remained firm around his waist. It was still not enough to upend them. It was not enough to set him free.
Wei Wuxian held his captive tightly in place as he guided the sword downward, towards the earth. But Lan er gongzi was inconsolable, and would not cease his writhing. As they were about to land, he sank his blunt omega teeth into the meat of Wei Wuxian's bicep, hard enough to break skin. It worked well enough to distract the alpha, who yelped in surprise, his momentary inattention sending the sword careening to the ground.
Wei Wuxian stumbled over the dew-tipped grass of a clearing, his grip around Lan er gongzi's waist loosening until the omega was able to elbow himself away from his captor. He then fought to make ground between them, stumbling on his broken leg, eventually resorting to crawling to get away.
For a moment, Wei Wuxian could only watch him struggle, winded with a hand to his chest where the omega's sharp elbow had hit hit. Before he could get far, the alpha noticed where he was heading - toward the heart of the flames - and the panic that filled him urged his feet forward, till he was atop the omega, pinning his shivering frame to the dry ground with all of his weight.
He held Lan er gongzi in place as he thrashed wildly, his chipped, uneven nails clawing tracks through the dirt as he was pulled back into the alpha's arms.
His breaths came quick, bordering on hyperventilation as he squirmed against Wei Wuxian, his distressed scent fluctuating wildly in the air, working to worsen the alpha's ongoing nausea. Though his movements were aggressive, he remained unnervingly silent - the only sound coming from him clusters of wet hiccups as he fought to contain his fear. It was clear the omega was resisting the urge to call out, so as to avoid gifting his captor any further weakness to use against him.
This close, the cloying, repulsive scent he emitted soon became overwhelming, but Wei Wuxian bore with it, tangling it with his own stormy musk. In an effort to drown the revolting scent of fear, Wei Wuxian pulled the omega even closer to his chest, releasing a commanding fragrance into the air he hoped would calm - and not further terrify - his prey.
Gradually, Lan er gongzi's struggles quieted. Though the omega's slim, slender fingers still shook against Wei Wuxian's wrist, the alpha scent indeed seemed to subdue him. His frantic movements ceased, and though he panted still from exhaustion, the rabbit-quick rising of his chest soon corrected into deeper, more sedate breaths. The omega's pulse was the only sign that remained of his agitation, pounding in a frantic beat beneath the skin of his wrist.
Frightened, Lan er gongzi was easily sent again into a frenzy as one of Wei Wuxian's arms slipped from around his waist, shocking him once more into mindless thrashing. But the alpha's grip was made of steel, honed from years of precise swordwork, and so his attempts to escape only exhausted him further.
With his free hand, Wei Wuxian tugged down the fabric mask obscuring the bottom half of his face, wincing as he inhaled ashen air into his lungs. Gently, he tilted the omega's neck, brushing strands of dark hair away to reveal a mating gland, irritated pink from the fire. The hair was even softer under his callused fingers than it had looked from afar - far too soft for the violence begot upon him.
Truly, Wei Wuxian had to wonder how his master ever thought such a fragile creature could endure the cruelty of Qishan. Shivering under his fingertips, the omega's skin seemed so fine it was almost brittle, like pristine snowflakes that shattered upon hitting the ground.
In any other circumstance, Wei Wuxian wouldn't dare think to take Lan er gongzi out of Gusu, for fear he might melt away under the light of a harsher sun. But a slave's opinion was worth nothing compared to his lord's, and so he had no choice.
His stomach roiling, Wei Wuxian took a steadying breath, and steeled himself. Lan er gongzi's eyes were wide in his peripheral, gazing up with apprehension at the alpha detaining him. He was still trembling faintly - clearly terrified, though the sweet lines of his face were set in a feral glare.
When hot breath fanned along his neck, the omega whimpered. His hands, though more delicate than Wei Wuxian's own, stung as they bit into the alpha's forearms, drawing little crescents of blood to the surface of his skin.
Wei Wuxian ignored the pain, dropping his head to nose against the omega's pale throat, scenting the pulse of his lifeblood storming through overworked veins. Half enchanted by the alpha's scent, Lan er gongzi stayed still in his grasp, so placid he could be mistaken for an omega lounging in his mate's embrace, were it not for the obvious destruction around them.
Wei Wuxian leant closer still, parting his lips so his teeth scraped over supple skin. His breath, where it hit against Lan er gongzi's throat, sent his flesh pimpling. As he realised what was to be done with him, the omega's shaking increased.
"Stop," he begged weakly, voice wispy and crackling as the fire.
Wei Wuxian said nothing in reply. His fangs, sharp and unfiled as a warrior's should be, sank into the tender flesh of the omega's mating gland, drawing his plea out into a pained hiss.
Held tight in the alpha's arms, Lan er gongzi's body convulsed, his eyes unfocused and misted. Abruptly, his breathing slowed, becoming so faint Wei Wuxian worried he would suffocate from it. As his lips turned blue from deprivation, a strangled whine slipped from between them, followed by a sudden gasp - until he at last fell limp where he lay, unconscious.
The alpha slumped over him, his forehead dipping to rest against the omega's bloody throat as he fought for breath. Wei Wuxian was not unaffected by the bond, a fire scorching its way deep into his soul like a heated brand, till he thought he might burst alight with it. He felt it take root within him, tethering him to his prey - slowly at first, subtle; then with a startling, unstoppable viciousness.
His instincts, already peaked by the hunt, flared to new heights, demanding he take his mate away from danger - somewhere quiet, and calm, and isolated where his claim could be complete. Wei Wuxian didn't move a single step; didn't dare to breathe until he felt the bond take fully.
With his nose close to the skin of Lan er gongzi's throat, the alpha was able to smell as his scent bloomed, the terror fading from it to be replaced with a sultry undertone of spice. It was so strong, Wei Wuxian doubted few other than himself would be capable of finding it appealing, and this brought him further relief. So long as Lan er gongzi disgusted Wen Xu, he was safe from him.
Despite himself, the alpha felt something within him relax. Leaned against his chest, he felt as the omega's breaths evened, becoming deep and gentle in sleep; his hummingbird heart returning to a strong, steady beat. Lan er gongzi's ease coaxed his own muscles to unwind, feeling a great weight lifting from him, like his lungs had cracked open allowing him to once more draw air.
He found himself slumping inward, curling himself into the crook of his new mate's throat, where his bright, flavourful scent was most prominent - winter blooms, snow, and - now - spice. It was intoxicating, but Wei Wuxian knew better than to become distracted by it, least of all in the middle of a razing.
The alpha's hand shook as he reached up to card through his omega's windblown locks, catching around the ribbon twined through his hair.
"...Forgive me," he whispered into his mate's throat, tasting blood upon his lips. "It was all I could think to do."
Reluctantly, he straightened himself, hoisting Lan er gongzi up and into his arms in one fluid motion. The jostling caused the omega's head to slip to the side, where it lolled in the air until Wei Wuxian drew it gently up to rest upon his shoulder.
After a moment's hesitance, he removed the omega's Lan ribbon, letting it float to the ground, where the fine fabric blistered, curling from the heat. Lan er gongzi would perhaps find comfort in keeping it, but Wei Wuxian couldn't risk lying to his commander, only for something so incriminating to be found in his possession later on.
With swift fingers, he tugged at the set of silver hairsticks that held the omega's hair up, allowing dark locks to spill freely downward. These, he did slip into his own robes. Though the design was clearly more intricate than what most omegas would be allowed, the colours were not undeniably Lan, and were fetching enough to be mistaken for a gift from an alpha to his newly bonded mate. It was the least Lan er gongzi deserved to keep, he reasoned, tugging the front of the omega's robes into disarray, for suffering such an humiliation.
Wei Wuxian flushed as he peeled the omega's inner layer back to reveal a sliver of pale chest, his fingers brushing shyly against warm skin. He quickly averted his eyes to the treeline to compose himself, scanning their surroundings. The forest was deserted this deep, the fire held at bay several feet in the distance by a mysterious, dome-shaped barrier of spiritual energy. He looked back to the omega.
Lan er gongzi seemed infinitesimally small curled up in his arms, his crisp, white clothing smeared with dirt. There was slight scratch underlining his cheek - perhaps from a stray branch along the forest path. Wei Wuxian thumbed at it, frowning.
Thankfully, it didn't seem likely it would grow infected. Lan er gongzi was said to be a strong cultivator, for an omega. His strength was why Wen Xu wanted him in the first place - that, and his cold beauty. He would no doubt heal within the hour.
Wei Wuxian's fingers traced lower, pinching at the flesh just below the cut. He squeezed the omega's cheek till it reddened, then pinched it again to ensure the mark stayed. It felt wrong to abuse such delicate skin, and his instincts rankled at the idea of his hands harming the mate he was meant to protect.
Without quite realising, Wei Wuxian growled, low and warning. The sound shocked him out of his reverie, and his hand fell from the omega's face, swinging back up under his prone body to rest upon his waist.
Silently, the alpha observed the final picture he'd made - a caught, claimed, and mated omega of no obvious standing; an unwillingly captured war prize - and huffed out a sigh. It would do, he hoped, to blind Wen Xu to his betrayal.
It was a good thing he'd no rank to be permitted a glimpse of Lan er gongzi's face in the past. If he had, the Wen heir would never let him get away with stealing his future consort out from under him.
----
Anyway, I wasn't planning on posting this maybe ever, but since AO3 went down...enjoy.
Sneak peek of this year's Halloween fic, featuring Wen war prize LWJ, a cursed mirror, and 🌸dream sequences🌸:
He dreamed of a hand threading through his hair, combing it back into a loosely bound ribbon. The ribbon - red, red, so red - was twined around quick fingers, wending between them like rope traps. There was a laugh; a low, breathy chuckle that shot straight to Lan Wangji's core, shaking his very foundation loose, till he felt as though he would float away.
The fingers tugged, and his head was brought back gently by the ribbon's length; like it was a leash to bind him.
"Do you like it?" A low voice whispered into his ear, soft and strangely hypnotic. "It was made just for you."
Lan Wangji shivered as the hand left his hair to trail along his spine; a ghostly touch moving down, down till he gasped as it slowed at the swell of his rear. He didn't hear the way he whined, soft and needy, as callused fingers teased the skin of his waist. He only felt as the hand moved to circle around him, warm arms driving the cold out of his body as they snared him in place.
"Do you accept it?" Lips pressed to his earlobe, a poor immitation of a kiss that turned to knives as sharp teeth latched to his flesh.
Lan Wangji bucked against the pain, unable to free himself from the vice-like grip that held him still. The teeth retracted, lips replacing them once more to suck at the wound until the stinging faded, and he was reduced to a shivering mess. The feeling was unlike anything he'd ever experienced in mortal life, and though a sliver of his mind recognised this world as a dream, he could hardly think to understand that meant it wasn't real.
The lips left him, one arm pulling up from his waist to tug at the ribbon once more. "Do you accept it, Lan Wangji?"
He groaned, too disoriented to form words, yet nodding vigorously. He didn't know what he was accepting, and he didn't care. He just wanted to be held. He didn't want to feel so lost anymore.
The being seemed to accept his reply. Its broad palm snaked up the back of his neck to cup his chin, long fingers wrapping firmly under his jaw to draw it down. Down to gaze into the mirror. Lan Wangji wondered when the looking glass had gotten there, and why it seemed to follow him even into his dreams.
"Look at me, darling," the voice whispered in his ear, shattering every last piece of clarity in his mind. "I'll give you anything you want if you just look at me."
Lan Wangji looked, and he saw himself - he saw himself, and he saw the darkness that had wrapped itself around him, greedy tendrils of yin energy clinging to every inch of his naked form. For the glimpse of a moment, he was terrified, his heart speeding in his chest. Then the darkness split, the shape of a featureless face forming in it, decorated with the warped approximation of a smile. Lan Wangji's panic faded, and he sank into the blackness that held him, until nothing remained. Nothing but himself, and the mirror, and the voice that echoed in his head: "You're mine, Lan Wangji."
Sheltered (actual) war prize!LWJ ft. endeared YLLZ
Alpha YLLZ has already murdered his first omega warprize WLJ, his second omega JGY, and his beta concubine SS. The kingdoms are hesitant to send another omega to him, but they need his aid defeating the Wen scourge that plagues them. After much discussion, it's finally decided to give YLLZ a concubine who can't possibly upset him; one who is bound to be omega perfection - submissive, obedient, pure of mind, and chaste.
The Lan imperial line are known to school their omegas into pliant spouses, perfectly at ease acquiescing to their mate's commands. Amongst them, the emperor's brother is known to be the most beautiful, the most cultured, and the most obedient of all.
Once the Lan council agrees to the trade, it's decided to send LWJ off to the BM as YLLZ's new concubine.
Lxc: This is a very bad idea!
Council: LWJ has spent many years in solitude, training to be the most docile of omegas. He's perfect!
Lxc: ...About that...
Flashbacks to LWJ being sentenced to seclusion for shouting at a potential mate to piss off, telling a fellow omega he wasn't worthy of speaking near him, refusing to let visiting Jiang dignitaries in without a pass, even though he had no authority over entrance into the imperial city, pushing a lost guest disciple off the wall of his courtyard, resulting in the alpha breaking an arm...
Further flashbacks of LWJ learning to fight in confinement, to refine his core, to play songs reserved for alpha and beta cultivators. That one time Uncle had made him embroider a pouch, and it turned out so poorly it had to be used as a coaster. How he'd admitted to XC that Mother's last request was for him to live freely, and he very much didn't find embroidering pouches all day long freeing. When his mail had been delivered to the emperor's study by mistake and Lan Xichen was treated to some very...flowery spring books.
The only time LWJ ever behaves as befits his station is in the presence of council members, who could petition to have him sent to corrective training if he steps out of line! The methods used to make disobedient omegas compliant are...disturbing, to say the least.
The princes' mother was sent to be reeducated, and she ended up bonded and impregnated against her will. Why on earth would WJ risk such a fate when he can instead play the meek, clueless omega they expect him to be, and remain free to do as he pleases?
Lxc: It's not a good idea. 😓
Lqr: It's really not. 😤
Council: We thought you might object so we've already sent him off.
Lqr: You WHAT?!
Lxc: Are you all insane?!! Bring him back!
Council: Too late, he's already there.
Meanwhile, LWJ is sitting in the middle of his new room in YLLZ's palace, very carefully not losing his composure. When Advisor Yu told him to get in the carriage, he'd done as he was bid to avoid a scolding. He thought he was being sent to meet another useless alpha, not agreeing to become YLLZ's latest concubine - something which he only found out after he'd stepped down from the carriage, somehow already in front of the BM palace despite having only taken a short trip.
LWJ is, frankly, terrified. He's heard things about YLLZ - concerning things relating to his treatment of omegas. He thinks he could faint, actually, but holds on to consciousness in order to wait for his new alpha lord's inevitable visit. If he just explains to YLLZ how woefully inappropriate he would be as a concubine, the man might still let him go back home to his books and his sword (which isn't here, or he might just fight the alpha off instead).
He represses the urge to whine. This has got to be one of the worst days of his life. It's up there with the embroidery incident.
----
When WWX arrives in LWJ's chambers to welcome him, he's already prepared an essay length speech on why an omega shouldn't be here, in the BM. He doesn't want concubines for one, and he certainly doesn't want assassins in his home, as the past few 'gifts' sent his way secretly were. If the new omega refuses to leave after all that...well, he doesn't want to shed any more blood, but he will if provoked.
Unlike what people expect of him, he's not actually willing to lay down his life at the first sight of light, watery, doe eyes blinking up at him...
WWX clears his throat. No one warned him this one was so pretty. Perhaps he underestimated the great kingdoms' ruthlessness, after all.
Wwx: Hello. There's been a mistake. I don't wan-
Lwj: I want to go home.
Wwx: ...Okay?
Lwj: I'm not meant to be here. I don't know anything about being a concubine.
Wwx: ...
Lwj: I once pushed an alpha off the top of a wall for disturbing my sleep. He was concussed for a week after.
WWX sits down next to LWJ on the bed.
Wwx: Please, tell me more.
LWJ hesitates. YLLZ has a very intense gaze. Being the focus of this alpha's attention is making his heart pound. For some reason, he can feel his body heating. Without realising it, he leans forward into YLLZ's space.
Lwj: I used my punishment in seclusion to teach myself how to cultivate the sword path. And stole texts from the library to learn battle songs.
WWX, extremely entertained by this point, also leans closer. Who knew the Lan could raise such a little hellion? He's adorable!
Wwx: What else?
Lwj: An alpha tried to make me submit to him during a marriage meeting and I told him to piss off.
WWX suppresses the urge to scowl.
Lwj: Also, I wasn't told where the carriage was taking me, which I think deserves some consideration.
WWX sits back, fiddling with his flute.
Wwx: I see. Clearly, you shouldn't be a concubine then.
LWJ bows his head in relief.
Lwj: Thank you for understanding, LZ.
Wwx: You should be my husband, instead!
Lwj: ...
Lwj: But-
WWX hops up off the bed, twirling the flute in his hand idly as he paces.
Wwx: I'll contact your family now to send a dowry. And to make sure your sword is packed for the trip. We wouldn't want you to go without it longer than necessary, would we?
LWJ, feeling queasy: There's...literature hidden under the floorboards. I would like that, as well.
WWX nods, grinning.
Wwx: Of course! We can't forget your books!
Lwj, weakly: ...Thank you...
While WWX goes to write the Lan kingdom, LWJ is left feeling bereft. YLLZ wants to marry him? How did it come to this? And why did he just agree to it? Has the stress of the day turned him mad?
As he agonises over his future, WWX is in another room figuratively ripping the Lans a new one in his letter, stating that if they can't take care of their omegas properly, then he will. How dare they send him a concubine under false pretenses! He doesn't even want a damn omega in exchange for his help with the war effort - he has told them this many, many times before!
Yet still, the kindgoms insisted on sending him three! One from the Wen and two from the Jin on behalf of the Wen! Can't they even tell who's trustworthy and who isn't? Do they want him, their ally, to die? Now they've at least sent one who isn't out for his blood, and the poor dear had no clue where he was going! WWX is at the end of his rope with these people!
Anyway, he knows if he sends LWJ back to his kingdom, he'll only be forced into another unpleasant match, whereas if WWX marries him, he'll be safe and untouchable forever, even if WWX himself dies in battle. It's not a perfect solution, but it's much favourable to allowing LWJ to be sold off willy nilly, after learning how poorly he's treated at home.
It's quite literally impossible to claim an omega if their mate dies, and in most cases, having a bonded omega sick up on you any time you put your cock near them is enough to dissuade even the vilest of alphas to leave widows alone.
Of course, WWX isn't planning on dying. He also can't actually mate LWJ - he's a beta - but no one else need know that. He's more than willing and able to etch a protective talisman into LWJ's bridal collar that will provide much the same deterrence to sleazy alphas, and more. If anyone even thinks about touching his omega against his will, they'll find their skin fried off the bone for their efforts. And so they should!
When he's done scolding LWJ's kingdom, WWX hastily sends the letter to be delivered via spiritual crow.
Lan Xichen responds with a hurried reply, explaining that LWJ was not meant to be sent to him, and he'd very much appreciate having his brother back, as soon as possible, thank you very much.
WWX refuses, and says if Lan Xichen tries anything funny, he'll leave the kingdoms to deal with conquering WRH by themselves.
The next letter arrives accompanied by LWJ's possessions, a set of wedding robes, and a sizeable dowry. WWX skips off to find LWJ, so as to present him with these fine items.
He doesn't think much on why giving things to his omega makes him so happy. In his experience, it's best not to dissect joy too much, or it might run away from you.
----
Due to the unexpectedness of their engagement, and the rapidly encroaching war, Wangxian take their bows in town later that afternoon, and consider themselves married. They can hold an official ceremony after WRH's forces are defeated, complete with pompous overspending, and a million guests.
But right now, WWX's main concern is LWJ's welfare. He wants to ensure LWJ has legality on his side - should WWX fall in battle against the Wens - to take control of his land and other property as its new master. He needs to make sure his husband is never again returned to those who would sell him off for their own gain.
When they complete their bows, he leads LWJ back up the mountain hand-in-hand. Though he can't see his face through the veil he wears, his omega's skin is warm and soft against his own. He squeezes LWJ's fingers as he leads him over a particularly rough patch of ground. LWJ squeezes back. WWX thinks he'll rather enjoy being married, if it's all like this. Or maybe he only likes the idea of being married to LWJ.
Something flutters in his chest, and he doesn't bother to ignore it. Why would he, when he can focus on his omega, instead?
----
Later, LWJ is nervous for the wedding night. YLLZ seems to like him very much, if he's married him less than a full week from their first meeting.
Yesterday, in preparation for tonight, LWJ reread his favourite romance novel, hoping to understand what would be expected of him in the marriage bed. The descriptions were vague but titillating - something about the alpha embracing the omega until they were one, until they were knotted together atop the mussed sheets.
LWJ blushes again, sat on YLLZ's bed, waiting for his husband to return from procuring conjugal wine. YLLZ - WY, he asked to be called; a name for LWJ only - is very handsome and has only been kind to LWJ thus far. He knows he wouldn't mind doing those things with his husband too much, even if they're often described as degrading.
In any case, if Wei Ying asks, LWJ won't refuse him. They must consummate the marriage for it to be considered valid, and Wei Ying has made a point of wanting everything about their union to be completely binding.
LWJ almost can't stand thinking about how much his husband wishes to possess him; to keep him. He thinks he might want Wei Ying to do that, too - to own him completely. He's by far the most attractive offer presented to him to date, and the kindest. LWJ doesn't have the heart to turn him down.
So, he's decided. Tonight, he'll give himself to his husband. Tonight...they'll hug. LWJ buries his head in his hands to cool his heating cheeks. How scandalous!
By the time WWX returns to his room, LWJ has stripped down to his inner robes, the only remaining evidence of their marriage the red veil thrown over his hair.
WWX nearly drops the wine in his hands. Holy shit. LWJ is sitting there like he actually wants to sleep with him?!! He- well, he likes LWJ. Even as a beta, WWX can recognise when someone is attractive, which his husband most certainly is. Over the past few days they've become quite close - freakishly so. It's like they've known one another forever! WWX may even have a small, completely irrelevant crush on his husband. But he'd never actually expected the omega would want to be touched. By him. It feels like a dream.
Nervous, WWX clears his throat.
Wwx: Lan Zhan? I brought the wine.
LWJ nods.
Wwx: Do you...want me to take off your veil for you?
Lwj: You are my husband.
A simple reply with a clear meaning - he must.
Hands trembling faintly, WWX dares to do just that.
Underneath the veil, LWJ is even more beautiful than WWX remembers him being yesterday evening, though he couldn't quite pinpoint how. Perhaps it's just because he's offering himself to WWX; that he now belongs to WWX that makes him ever more stunning.
He should probably say something to express how grateful he is, all of a sudden, to have the honour of his hand.
WWX hiccups.
Wwx: I mean. You're beautiful.
LWJ glances away.
Lwj: Husband is overpraising.
WWX doesn't think a single thing for at least a minute straight after hearing LWJ call him 'husband'.
Wwx: Ah. Wine?
LWJ nods again, only this time WWX is able to observe the pink delicately overtaking his cheekbones.
WWX pours the wine on his pants. He jumps when the liquid seeps through to his skin.
Wwx: Shit!
Lwj: Would husband like me to help him clean up?
WWX looks at LWJ, gazing up at him through his eyelashes. He wonders why he decided to stand, when it only served to draw attention to his husband's pretty face resting a few inches from his crotch. If he only parted the skirt of his robes and pressed forward a bit, he'd-
WWX has the sudden realisation that he's a degenerate. He hadn't known that about himself and is quite mortified to find out the truth in this particular situation.
To divert his attention away from the filthy images threatening to overtake his mind, he nods.
Wwx, breathy: Yes.
LWJ stands, and begins to unwrap WWX's robes from his body - first one layer, then the next. A strangled noise catches in WWX's throat. He can't believe this is happening to him. After 15 years living on the streets, scraping food off the ground and learning cultivation piece by piece from wandering cultivators, he finally has a home, authority, and now…he's going to experience bedding an omega. His omega. Betas like him rarely have a reason to so much as look at omegas, much less marry them! He's so overwhelmed, he could cry.
The last layer of his robes comes off, spilling to the floor with a dull thud. LWJ kneels to remove his pants.
He's so overwhelmed and so, so hard. WWX suddenly understands all those tales of rut-wild alphas much better. He, too, would start gnawing on furniture if his omega denied him now.
His husband wipes his leg clean gently with a cloth.
WWX is practically jittering with nerves when LWJ looks up at him from beneath long lashes.
Lwj: Would you still like the wine, or would you like to…take me to bed, husband?
WWX breaks. He growls.
Wwx: Bed, now!
He pulls LWJ down with him, eliciting a shocked huff from his omega's pretty mouth.
Then, he freezes. What exactly is he meant to do now? Should he simply rip the remaining clothing off LWJ, or-?
Tentatively, his husband's arms wrap around his waist. WWX looks down. LWJ is blushing, hiding his face in his chest.
LWJ, whispering: Hold me, too.
Confused, but also keen for any contact he's allowed, WWX does.
Lwj: Tighter.
WWX complies.
LWJ looks at him with widened eyes, his face openly betraying how flustered he feels.
Lwj: It is done.
Wwx: Hm?
LWJ looks away shyly.
Lwj: We have consummated our union.
Wwx: 🤨???
LWJ promptly falls asleep, and WWX is left to ponder the meaning of his words. His hard cock is pressed right up against LWJ's stomach, and his husband didn't even comment on it, but-
WWX turns beet red.
Wwx: Oh my god.
Wwx: He thinks this is sex!
WWX is suddenly furious. Did no one even hug Lan Zhan as a child? Was he not educated on what to expect on his wedding night? Or was telling him deemed the duty of his future alpha? Worse still, was his family willing to allow a rutting beast to break him in unawares? His stomach roils, and he finds himself drawing LWJ nearer to his chest.
He can't believe anyone would be willing to hurt his LZ, but the fact is he's already been sold to him, bartered off like cattle. WWX decides that no matter what, he'll take care of his omega. He'll make sure no one ever neglects him, or harms him again. If anyone so much as tries, they'll shortly find themselves dead.
Unaware of anything but the overwhelming need to protect his new husband, WWX starts to release a foreboding scent into the air, thick and commanding.
Meanwhile, LWJ experiences some very soothing dreams. He'd always wanted to enjoy his first time with someone he loved, and now his wish has come true. He may have only known WY for such a short while, but he admits he's already very attracted to, and very...fond of him. He's so happy. In his sleep, he smiles, nuzzling closer towards the source of the warm scent that blankets him.
----
In the morning, LWJ feels much shyer than when he fell asleep. He can't help but continue to glance at his husband. Was it good for him, as well? Or-?
WWX chuckles and brings a hand down over LWJ's eyes.
Wwx: Don't glare so early in the morning, baobei. If I didn't know better, I'd say I upset my omega somehow.
LWJ flushes at the pet name, but continues glaring when WWX lowers his hand.
Lwj: Was I as good as them?
WWX quirks a brow in confusion.
Wwx: Who? At what?
He presses his lips together, mortified that he even asked that much. Still, he can't help himself.
Lwj: Did I please you well last night, alpha?
WWX blinks rapidly, startled.
Wwx: Of course you did!
He smiles warmly.
Wwx: How could my Lan Zhan be bad at anything? He's the best.
LWJ's eyes narrow slightly.
Lwj: So I was better than your other concubines?
At his words, WWX's face sours. He shudders.
Wwx: Why would I let any of them in my bed?
His eyes widen, as though shocked.
Wwx: LZ! Didn't I tell you they were all trying to kill me?
LWJ shakes his head, and WWX tips back onto the mattress, exasperated.
Wwx: They were all so terrible at it, too! WLJ actually put poison in my tea in front of me! I think she thought her breasts were distracting.
LWJ's hands clench into the bed sheets.
Lwj: Were they?
Wwx: Hm?
Lwj: Were you distracted by them?
WWX laughs. He bends forward to place a peck on LWJ's nose.
Wwx: Chugging vinegar so early? Of course Lan Zhan's are much better.
LWJ scowls, but doesn't draw away when his husband strokes up his chest.
Lwj: I do not have breasts.
WWX kisses his mouth.
Wwx: You certainly have something hidden under here.
He squeezes LWJ's flesh, making the omega's breath hitch. His free hand runs down his husband's smooth stomach.
LWJ shudders. He's never been touched in such a lewd manner before! Is this what his books were describing when they mentioned 'foul and illicit sexual acts'? Is his husband really as much of a fiend as the rumours state, wanting to copulate morning and night? LWJ is scandalised! He's angered! He...he doesn't really mind, actually.
Oblivious to his omega's inner turmoil, WWX places his chin on LWJ's shoulder, his fingers still running downward to ghost his-
LWJ inhales sharply, sent entirely off kilter by the heat of blood rushing to his groin.
Wwx: It's so early. Let's go back to sleep, er gege.
Before LWJ can respond, WWX has him pinned to the bed, his back jammed against the warm mattress. His eyes widen as the alpha collapses onto him, taking him in his arms before swinging around so LWJ now lies on top of his chest.
A small whimper leaves the omega's lips. His entire body feels fuzzy, his nerves tingling as though struck by a storm.
Wwx: Okay, husband?
LWJ squeaks, then exhales loudly to cover it up. He reaches desperately for sensible thoughts; for anything that seems like a thought at all, beyond his instincts screaming loudly at him, demanding he-
Demanding something.
Lwj: Do you think it will take?
WWX, who had busied himself stroking his omega's back in a soothing rhythm, hums questioningly.
LWJ flushes.
Lwj: It's been barely a day and already you've lain with me so often. Do you think your seed will take?
WWX's mind stutters to a halt. Seed? The only seed taking to anything is the stuff caught in the sheets from him shamefully relieving himself last night after LWJ fell asleep.
But his husband is looking at him with big, blank eyes that WWX just knows are the tiniest bit hopeful. He presses another kiss to LWJ's hair as he strokes it away from his face.
WWX chuckles nervously.
Wwx: I don't think so, but we can always try again.
LWJ closes his eyes.
Lwj: Mn. We will try again. 😌
With no sign of hesitation whatsoever, the omega wraps his arms around WWX's waist, tightly enough to make him wheeze. WWX's heart thuds dangerously in his chest.
Wwx: Ah, are you so eager for pups, LZ?
LWJ doesn't deign to reply, doesn't even open his eyes as he lays a kiss upon WWX's throat. Around the alpha's waist, his grip tightens.
Lwj: Diligence is the root of success.
WWX laughs. For some reason, the tighter LWJ holds him, the more his teeth ache. He wants to bite something; to chew.
But more pressingly, if his omega wants children, he's going to have to figure out a way to break the news to him gently that copulation is somewhat more...involved than what they're doing. It's best to take these things slowly, though. He wouldn't want to overwhelm his husband and scare him off the idea for good. It might even be nice, having a little one or two to run around in these empty halls. It's certainly more than he ever expected to have, but then, so is LWJ...
LWJ's breathing evens out, until WWX is certain he's fallen back asleep. He definitely needs to tell him, but for now... WWX yawns. His arms wrap around LWJ's shoulders, holding him to his chest protectively. Right now, he thinks, he'd like to sleep, just a little.
----
LWJ writes LXC a week into his marriage.
"Brother, I am well. Thank you for the concern. In response to the questions put forth in your last letter, YLLZ treats me very kindly. We spend much of our days together, and when the night comes, he [REDACTED] me until I [REDACTED] and then when I wake, he'll still be [REDACTED]. He likes to hold me in place the entire night and [REDACTED] me."
Lxc, upon reading the letter: YLLZ does what to Wangji all night? What kind of inhuman stamina-
He shakes his head. At least his brother found someone who shares the same interests as him to marry. Even if he is probably a demon of some sort. LXC shudders. He's never quite recovered from reading LWJ's porn stash. It's a good thing, in hindsight, that he did. Otherwise, his brother's letter would read like a plea for help, instead of...bragging.
LXC hastily pens a reply.
"Understood. I'm glad you found your match."
Lxc: But did you really need to write all that in such detail? Really, WJ? I didn't even know one could be [REDACTED] in such a way. Most people just say they're trying to conceive an heir, if that.
LQR has the unfortunate luck to be passing by his nephew's study at that very moment. He nearly breaks his neck swivelling it to stare LXC in the eye.
Lqr: What filth did you just speak?!! 😡
Lxc: Oh! Uncle, no. I was just replying to WJ's letter-
Lqr: What does WJ know of [REDACTED]?!
Lxc: ...
Lxc: If I offer you some tea, will you forget this entire conversation ever happened?
----
Lwj, upon reading a congratulatory letter from both his brother AND uncle: 😇
WWX comes up behind his smiling husband to wrap his arms around his waist.
Wwx: What is it, LZ? What's got my omega smelling so happy?
LWJ flushes so hard it affects his breathing. It's the middle of the day and they're standing in the main hall! How can his husband be so shameless!
Lwj: Brother replied to my letter. He says he wishes us the best with...
Wwx: With...?
LWJ turns to hide his face in the crook of his alpha's neck.
Lwj: ...Pups.
WWX's laugh comes out oddly raspy.
Wwx: Yeah, LZ? So, about that-
Wwx: ...
Wwx: LZ, why does it say here your uncle wants to kill me?!! 😭😭
----
LWJ: This is so scandalous. We're...holding hands while we- 😳
Also LWJ: Brother, you need to try pegging. It's the most wonderful sensation.
---
LWJ, being held firmly: Husband, you're so tight.
WWX: ...See, that shouldn't turn me on, but...
----
I'm going in for a minor operation in about a week (to fix an issue caused by the first surgery I had. No biggie). So, I probably won't be active for a bit? Or maybe I will. Who knows (not me).
Omegaverse AU where all the sects want to please YLLZ after he defeats the Wen, but soon realise he cares nothing for jewels and the usual finery. Or, if he does, he's never acknowledged it in any noticeable way. The gifts they send him disappear up the mountain, but no correspondence is ever left in return.
This means that even though he may not want such gifts - or know what to do with them - he doesn't tell the sects to stop bringing them to him, either (he probably would have, but tbh he's not sure where the gifts are coming from, at first. When he realises, he's too illiterate to respond to their grand gestures).
Instead of the lack of communication halting their efforts, however, each sect schemes to bring the fearsome warlord something he'll be grateful for; something that will endear them to him indefinitely.
To this end, they decide to try a more practical approach.
The Jin clan offer spools of the finest silk, reinforced by spiritual energy - a tough cloth that is nonetheless suitable to be made into robes fit for a sect leader, or favoured disciple.
The Nie clan offer food - grain, cured meats, wine. They also offer a great mountain of pornography, though who thought that was a good idea is unknown.
The Jiang clan offer rare spices, and seafood preserved with the help of clever talismans.
The Lan clan, who have yet to present anything, get together and come up with an unusual idea. What could a foundling sect leader need - more than food, clothing, and riches - if not an accountant? And who do they have available who knows how to balance the books and keep a sect running? Why, the sect leader's younger brother has been trained his whole life to manage a household - given, as an omegan wife, but it's basically the same thing!
And as a highborn omega, the boy would've married a sect leader anyway, so he's been sufficiently prepared for this role. In short, LWJ, as an offering to YLLZ, is perfect.
Lan Xichen is hesitant to ask such a despicable thing of his brother - Wangji would be giving up his entire life, and all his domestic dreams for this plan- but eventually agrees to speak with him later.
He eases into the conversation over an afternoon snack of hot tea and durian cakes.
LWJ, upon hearing the proposal, perks up.
LWJ: So, I would be in charge of an entire sect, and I won't be married off?
LXC: Just of the expenses, WJ. Unfortunately, I don't think YLLZ is interested in a wife, or we'd have taken that route instead. But, maybe he'll introduce you to a nice disc-
LWJ: I will do it.
Lan Xichen nearly chokes on his tea.
LXC: So fast? You can take your time to decide.
LWJ: I. Will. Do. It.
Once LWJ has made up his mind, he can be very stubborn. It is with a heavy heart, then, that Lan Xichen lets him go.
----
LWJ is soon escorted to Yiling under the protection of an armed guard - along with the other offerings made - and spirited away into YLLZ's lands.
WWX, upon seeing an unmated omega amongst all the wine and spice, nearly trips over his own feet.
WWX: Why is there a concubine in my food?!
LWJ, who has noticed the distinct lack of buildings and people in the area, is also concerned.
LWJ: Where is my sect? 🥺
He begins to search the area for houses. Perhaps they're very, very far in the distance?
WWX, meanwhile, is still freaking out. He just can't believe this. Who would simply give such a pretty omega away? And to him? What's he going to do with a concubine?
And! And, just look at the clothes they've trussed him up in! He's been brought here, tarted up like a common whore! What does this mean? In all his years as a street child, he'd never once heard of something so ridiculous. Such an omega deserves to sleep in a palace, not a musty cave! WWX can't provide a palace out of thin air - he thinks. He's never tried. Seriously, what were the sects thinking?!
LWJ, who is wearing his everyday sect robes, actually, is more interested in finding out why a powerful, handsome, recently wealthy alpha appears to be living in a wasteland. Is this why his mother warned him to avoid men who live apart from their families? Why would someone choose to exist in this state?
He sniffs at the air tentatively. At least, it appears, the alpha bathes regularly. His scent is crisp and clean - and rather nice.
For a while, they stare at each other blankly, each lost in their own spiraling thoughts. Eventually, WWX takes the initiative to approach first.
WWX: So, uh, there's been a mistake.
LWJ nods very seriously.
LWJ: Yes, there has.
WWX nearly crumples in relief.
WWX: Okay, great you understand! So I'll just escort you bac-
LWJ: You are in an even worse predicament than expected. For this to be a proper sect, there must first be buildings.
WWX: ...Huh?
LWJ brings his purse out from within his robes. He drops it into WWX's hands.
LWJ: Go to town and buy the materials necessary for construction. When you return you may begin to build a residence for us.
WWX blanks out a little at the idea of living with the pretty omega, before realising what else had been said. He bristles.
WWX: Excuse me? I am the Yiling Patriarch! You-
LWJ fixes him with a bland stare.
LWJ: Are you an alpha or aren't you?
WWX: I-
LWJ: Go. Get the supplies.
WWX pouts.
WWX: Yes dear.
----
LWJ waits in the cave while WWX slaves over building them a home. This is where he finds the treasures sent along to YLLZ earlier, and begins his job by cataloguing them.
He may or may not sneak outside a few times to watch YLLZ's muscles ripple under the strain of his work, but he's certain he's being very subtle about it.
LWJ: 🧍♂️
WWX: Why is he watching me?
LWJ: 🧍♂️
WWX: Should I watch him too?
LWJ: 🧍♂️
WWX: 🧍
LWJ: 😡 Do not slack off.
LWJ whirls around and returns to his duties, face blazing with heat. And he thought the alpha was teachable!
WWX: ...
WWX: Come back...
----
Once WWX finishes building the house - and a large bed - his omega demands to be taken to town to select appropriate bedding. They end up strolling arm in arm through the dense marketplace, inspecting various stalls as they go.
They stop for lunch at a small inn, and WWX even buys LWJ a new hair stick.
WWX: It looks like it would suit you. 😄
LWJ: ...
LWJ: Oh no. I think I'm attracted to my employer. How unprofessional.
Still, he lets YLLZ draw his hair up into a bun and slide the new hair stick into place. It is a very nice accessory. No one shall judge him for accepting it.
----
When they return home, WWX is nervous. As they make the bed together, his mind races.
Is this it? There's only one place to sleep in this house. Surely, that means they'll be sleeping together? Does this mean his omega wants to be claimed tonight, or...would he like to experience other things? He should probably ask.
WWX, clearing his throat: So...would you like to be mated tonight?
His voice comes out slightly strangled, but LWJ understands the question. The omega's eyes go wide with shock.
Mating is an option? He knew they'd sleep together in the bed, because it would have been ridiculous to ask YLLZ to build two houses and beds in one day, regardless of how strong he is. Though already a scandalous situation to be caught in, he did not expect it to go any further than that!
Wait, is this workplace harassment? Probably. Is it harassment if he likes it, though? Should he refuse on principle just in case? ...But, this might be the only time YLLZ offers this to him...
LWJ nods.
LWJ: We shall.
His tone is very imperious and sends a thrill down WWX's spine.
WWX: Okay. 😳
That night, they claim each other. Their bonding sets off an extremely long heat-rut cycle that leaves them both worn out for weeks after.
----
Several months later, the cultivation world is still awaiting a sign from YLLZ. Did he like the gifts given to him? Did he not? Should they try offering something else?
JGS eyes a dancing girl he recently acquired. Perhaps she'll do. She's pretty enough to move an alpha's heart, anyway. What a pity about LWJ, though. He was also beautiful, and now he's missing. Who even knows what sort of dastardly things YLLZ had in store for him? The Lans were so naive to let him go...
Suddenly, the doors to the hall the discussion conference is taking place in slam open. Everyone present whips around to see what happened. Their eyes alight on two figures entering the hall side by side - YLLZ and...LWJ!
The delegation from the Lan clan are immediately concerned. Aren't they standing awfully close together for master and servant? How improper. Though, at least LWJ looks as though he's been fed properly. He's put on quite a bit of weight since he was last seen.
Lan Xichen rises to greet his brother immediately, the relief palpable in his expression.
LXC: WJ! Where have you been? Why didn't we hear from you?
LWJ eyes YLLZ, who eyes him right back. YLLZ steps up to greet the Lan head.
YLLZ: Lan zongzhu. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I apologise for keeping Lan Zhan all to myself these past months, but I'm sure you can understand my reasoning.
Understanding lights up Lan Xichen's face.
LXC: Ah, yes. As a new sect, your finances must have been-
WWX: After we bonded, I couldn't keep my hands off of him! 😄
LXC: ...After you what?!
LWJ: Bonded, brother.
LXC: You- Wha- WJ, why?!
LWJ eases into YLLZ's grip around his waist, looking ridiculously prim and proper for all the chaos he's causing.
LWJ: It was an opportunity I simply could not refuse.
Lan Xichen looks horrified.
LXC: Why couldn't you refuse?! Did he force you?
WWX guffaws at the very prospect.
WWX: Ah, if anything, it was Lan Zhan that seduced me! I don't know what you Lans teach up that mountain of yours, but you certainly sent me the right warprize!
LXC: Warprize?!
LQR, in the background: WARPRIZE?!!
WWX blinks out at the room, caught a bit off guard by the odd reaction.
WWX: Ah...yes?
LWJ sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose.
LWJ: WY, I was sent to be your accountant.
WWX: You were? Then why...? 😳
LXC: Yes, Wangji. Why?!
LQR: WHY?!!
LWJ seems annoyed by the question. Still, he answers.
LWJ: Wei Ying has many good qualities. He's handsome, and attentive, and his seed was virile enough to impregnate me on the first-
LQR, pretty much dying of shock: WANGJI!!!
----
In the end, LWJ gets his sect to run, and WWX gets all the love and affection that he missed out on during his years as an orphan.
However, he's never allowed to look at the books the Nie sent him ever again. LWJ's afraid they might give him even more strange ideas. Warprize indeed!
We need more Wangningxian Warprizeji fics.
Actually, we need more fics with Wangji interacting and bonding with the (un)dead in general.
The corpse women are his Jiejies and he will fight you over that! Yes he knows that they are nigh unkillable and also extremely capable of defending themselves but listen, they shouldn’t have to. They went through enough when they were alive now that they’re dead they should never have to deal with assholes or Men (derogatory) ever again and Wangji takes his newfound responsibility very seriously!!
Also I’m just in love with the idea of Wangji, on his wedding night, terrified and nauseous because there’s rumors his husband beds corpses and he’s absolutely disgusted at the thought that he’s expected to preform his marital duties with a man like that -- only to, months later, find himself in bed with his husband and their Ghost General.
