aefenglom | video; un: zewu-jun

Entry tags:

mdzs: lan xichen

video; un: zewu-jun

Name: Lan Xichen
Date: 10 Auguril
Format: video

[At first Lan Xichen is sniffling when he connects to the network. There is a shine in his eyes where tears are forming, but he's still smiling as he gathers his composure.]

Ah, writing is beautiful. I did not realize that there were so many books like this in the city.

[In view of the watch there are a few examples of said books laid out on a desk. A closer look shows that these particular works have a certain flavor to them, portraying monsters and witches in obviously intimate relationships. He's... definitely found a collection, yes.]

If any of you have read things like this, I would be happy to hear of more. They are very moving.

[The ones he's picked out run more toward the feelings and drama side of stories rather than straight smut, but they certainly aren't high art. Wiping his eyes on his sleeve with light dabs of the cloth, Lan Xichen calms down and addresses the public more formally.]

I apologize for my appearance. I got carried away. What I wanted to speak of is more of a formal question.

[Even though he's been crying, he somehow managed to maintain his grace and noble appearance, keeping every hair in place. Half of it is tied back with a golden ribbon that matches the warm brown clothes he is wearing, accented in the same color. He put some effort into keeping up that look.]

Those of you who are studying magic or have some natural powers, perhaps you will train with me? I am working on expanding my skills and would like to learn new spells from others who have specialties that can help me improve. My range right now has been on elemental control, so perhaps we can work together on combining techniques?

I would like to gather a hunting party as well. I know many often venture into the Wilde and I would like to go out with some if you will accompany me on such a hunt. To explore.

[To dip his toes in again, really. He's mostly been hunting on his own.]

And- if this is too forward you need not answer, but I would be grateful. I am curious about those who have become something other than Witches. Usually these changes are difficult to discuss, but are there any positive experiences you could share with me? I know there are uncomfortable aspects, but surely not everything is terrible?

[He hesitates, then abandons a mouthed please.]

Anyway, thank you.

[ooc: For anyone wanting to join him in magical spell development or some hunting/quests, I have an open log here. Or feel free to hit me up for some stuff at

teaandreveries.]

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[She fumbles a bit with it to get the video working correctly, but she looks pleased when it does and then immediately interested]

What kind of books are they? They're good? [She could read and write at least, but there wasn't much in the way of leisure books in her village, sooo. Give her those good romance book recs, Xichen.]

Also, um! I want to help! With... With the hunting... [But as she says this she trails off, realizing she has absolutely nothing to bring to the table here except dead weight. So. Hm.] Well. Mybe some day...

[He's aware that the writing isn't exactly technically sound, but there's so much heart in it! He is happy to show her the covers of the various books that are very clearly questionable romance stories.]

They are very good! [His taste cannot be trusted here.]

If you would like, you can read them as well.

Would you like to train with me?

Alright, I'd like that. [Romance novels, how scandalous! But if Xichen says they're good then surely...]

I...don't know how to do anything, really... I've never had to use real weapons before. [She'd been able to kill with just a touch back home, and weidling the dead as personal soldiers didn't really take much skill.] But if I learn a little, I could at least help you out eventually, right? Or at least, you wouldn't have to worry about me so much if I did go with you.

[Some are certainly more on the risque side, but Xichen has become more comfortable since his arrival and trying out these strange, enticing things seems harmless enough. A little bit of spice doesn't hurt, right? He'll make sure not to lend her anything too gratuitous! Besides, he's still a romantic at his core.]

It is not always necessary for everyone to learn how to use weapons. If you don't feel comfortable with them, don't force yourself. But I would be happy to train with you if you would like that.

[He's touched that she apparently just wants to go out on a hunt with him. It doesn't seem like something she would enjoy.]

We could do other things. It doesn't have to be weapons.

But... [Sae realizes, in that instant, how silly what she's about to say truly is. She pauses, hesitates. Opens and closes her mouth a couple of times. She fidgets with her sleeves and looks incredibly sheepish before she finally speaks in a small voice]

But... If I can't learn to protect myself, then... How am I supposed to protect you?

[He looks surprised by her explanation, but the widened eyes soften as he takes that in. It's something he doesn't consider, because it goes without saying that Xichen has protection. It's always been a little less of a concern with the support of everyone around him. Now things are different and he's only noticing that when people point it out.]

In that case, we should practice together. I hope I won't give you a reason to need such skills, but it can't hurt to learn them.

Thank you, little sister. And I will protect you as well.

Ah, Zewu-jun. You had me worried there for a second.

[but he understands happy tears. he's shed a few of them himself lately.]

Books are normally more of Lan Zhan's sort of thing, but I can't help but feel like I've seen the ones that you're reading somewhere...

[thoughtful tapping of the chin. it's not like wei wuxian steps foot inside of the library very much.]

Did I? I'm sorry, I was distracted.

[He's been doing a lot of crying lately. His emotions are a bit sensitive with so much that has happened. And at least this time it's been good.]

You've seen them before? Wei-gongzi, have you been reading them as well?

No, I prefer the ones with more pictures.

[wei wuxian is a lot smarter than he seems...but sometimes he'd have to be.

he snaps his fingers suddenly.]

Wait, that's it! Zewu-jun, have you really visited that place?

[ Lan Xichen hesitates, unsure of how he should respond to that sort of question, but sensing he is on a speeding cart headed toward embarrassment. ]

"That place"? I went out shopping a while ago...

Zewu-jun, you should let me know next time.

[he can lend him his frequent shopper's card. ...look, if the place has something like that, you can bet wei wuxian has it.]

Is this your new "forbidden chamber"? Do you have a favorite? Oh! Do you think Lan Zhan would enjoy them? I do remember one title now that I think about it. Something like...."A Puca for the Pounding". Will you look for it next time?

[Wei Wuxian, please! When you describe it like that he feels like he's doing something wrong. Once again, he's the master of making Lans blush.]

It's not- I was- Ah, they aren't so bad as that. I don't think such pretty writing should be treated as forbidden. Why would anything that beautiful be bad?

[You're breaking his heart.]

Have you not shared any with Wangji? I can look for it when I go out next. I still have not read very many.

I guess it is beautiful. In its own way.

Ah, Lan Zhan still sticks to his books about magic and music and other things he can flip pages and calmly drink tea to. Maybe he needs to read something that stirs him up a little more...even if I do end up with a limp.

You don't think so?

[He sounds surprised by that. The technique may not be the best, but the emotion behind the writing style has to count for something. Of course, Lan Xichen is more forgiving of that than he probably needs to be.

And then Wei Wuxian has to add that next part. Xichen is trying not to show his embarrassment on his face.]

...Wei-gongzi, don't you two ever just spend time together quietly?

Ah - ah, course I do! It really...brings a tear to the eye.

[clearly he must be thinking of a different kind of writing! ...isn't he? those covers aren't -exactly- risque, but still-

he'll have to figure out a way to take a peek inside them.]

When Lan Zhan plays. [he answers after a moment's thought, sparing the older lan brother for once.] I really don't know how he does it so beautifully.

[Of all the people Lan Xichen expects to be shy about questionable reading material, Wei Wuxian is probably the last. He does pause when the younger man staggers, thinking maybe he went too far with his interests, but it can't really be that bad. After all, how much has Wei Wuxian done, never mind what he's read about. He won't be embarrassed.]

I think that the feelings between the heroes and their loves is very moving. It may seem a bit forward, but if someone cares that much about another person... There is something special about that.

[That statement is followed by a softer smile.]

What you hear is the most beautiful songs. He would only play the best music for the one he loves. You are very lucky.

[ viren finds himself without words to comment on lan xichen's newfound taste in literature. ]

Superficially? While it fails when considered comparatively... I suppose that enhanced strength would be a benefit.

Is that how you mean?

[ And he looks so pleased about his find too. Probably because he spent his entire life surrounded by refined and serious things, so getting a taste of trash has been an exciting experience all on its own. ]

It doesn't have to be superficial. There must be good parts of being granted such strength or perhaps being given a new sense. But, yes, thank you. That helps. I just wish to appreciate the different abilities we all have.

[ Monsters shouldn't have to feel bad or insecure about themselves, right? ]

It is good to speak to you again, lord dragon.

[ u live ur best life xichen ]

I enjoy others rightfully knowing that strength to be fearsome.

[ PAUSE ]

"Lord dragon"?

[ He is doing his version of being wild and crazy. Which is... reading some bad literature, but shhh.

He smiles brightly when he gets that response. ]

You are a dragon, I think? Is that not right?

[ Just a little daring there, but it's him trying to be friendly. ]

... If you're to persist on using "lord," you may as well call me Lord Viren.

Do you not like it? I could call you by something else if lord is too much.

[ Poor Viren. Xichen just thinks he needs more friends. ]

[ where is the lie ]

"Lord Viren" or Viren. The latter is for ... acquaintances, or people of higher standing.

If you really want to call me just "Lord" — fine. But "lord dragon" sounds strange.

Does it? Dragons are honored creatures and of very high standing.

[He's just teasing. Although he speaks softly enough that is may be hard to tell. There's real warmth in his words.]

I suppose Lord Viren it must be, then. Have you found anything more than strength favorable here? Being chosen as a dragon does have some magic, doesn't it?

They're certainly fearsome, dangerous, being beasts that have earned their awe... But I wouldn't call them universally liked, particularly not honored.

[ displeased with the idea, he clicks his forked tongue against sharp teeth. ]

I've heard they're regarded as special.

They may be fearsome, but with their power and bloodlines, many are honored.

[He's getting the sense that Viren is not very fond of his dragon state.]

What I mean to say is that those who are not human have many gifts.

Ah. Would you prefer it?

Being a Monster to a Witch?

I don't know. I have honestly never been anything other than myself.

But I do not want those who are Monsters to feel unhappy because of the chances they have experienced.

[ viren, assuredly, wanted a very validating no. ]

[ that lan xichen should provide a reasonable answer incites a huff, but then quiet as he reevaluates. ]

So seems to be your goal, yes. I'm not incapable of it, but I do think the optimism, while refreshing, is ... misplaced. [ beat. ] Would you really like it? If I can rattle off my positive changes?

[ He was actually pretty shocked to be next to Jin Guangyao, holding him through some of his changes, so he's not thrilled by the things Monsters have to go through, but Lan Xichen being a constant advocate of sympathy only took that as a sign he needs to reach out and understand the other side more. ]

I feel it could be beneficial. To those who are struggling with the harder part of their natures. If- if I could understand more clearly, then perhaps I too could learn how better to help.

[ He holds onto that thread of optimism and hope, trying to shine a bit of light onto the situation. ]

So often we only know of one side of matters. But the Monsters I have met here have been strong and kind.

Surely a wonder, that.

[ remarked with a touch of sarcasm. but he's trying to listen and navigate this conversation to some benefit, despite the growing knot of unpleasantness within his stomach. ]

[ he takes a breath, and then recounts, ]

In addition to strength, I also enjoy increase endurance. But... being granted the ability to fly, without any spell to aid me, is something I still find to be a marvel. And while being aligned with element of fire does naturally have its drawbacks, fire has always been a powerful force — something bound to both destruction and creation.

[ there's an abrupt silence that follows this; it's either viren expecting validation for his efforts, or something chillier along the unspoken lines of satisfied? ]

[ The silence and what might be judgment from Viren gets a smile of warmth and gratitude from Lan Xichen. The answer might have been meant more as a dry answer than a genuine one, but the Lan takes it as honesty given with reluctance. ]

Thank you. I think there are many abilities that could be enjoyable if explored correctly. Flying sounds very nice. And fire has proven to be a tricky element to deal with. A dragon's innate power is certainly magnificent in that sense. I hope one day to master flying as well. Then perhaps we can go out together.

[ his gaze narrows. earnestly, for a moment, he's somewhat baffled by the response. of course he's taken all of this very well, as well as followed-by an invitation, viren remarks to himself. ]

[ he sighs. ]

... If you would like. I wouldn't protest. [ beat. ] So long as, if we're truly to fly side by side, then you don't slow me down.

[ that would be another bout of honestly - but so long as it should be mastered, he believes it would be interesting to contrast a dragon and a witch's techniques.</small. ]

Once I manage to regain the ability, I promise that I won't slow you down. I have experience.

[Even though it's been a while since he has flown and even though he has to use completely different magic system now, he is very confident in his abilities. He grew up to do things like this!]

And perhaps we can compare notes. Magic flows in both monsters and witches. There is meant to be a connection between us.

Xiōngzhǎng. Please inform me as soon as you depart. I would like to join you on a night-hunt.

( he looks perfectly content, serene even, until his gaze drops slightly uneasy, mouth pursed as he seems to struggle to find the right words. ) The… suggestive literature you have acquired… ( he visibly swallows, staring at nothing in particular. ) …would you let me borrow a volume from your collection?

[Just hearing Wangji call his name is reassuring to him. He has had a rocky time since his arrival and felt like he's lost a bit of the home and security he always loved during his stay, so having Wangji still there and still willing to acknowledge him is special. It brings a soft smile to Xichen's lips.]

I would like that as well. We haven't gone night-hunting together in a long time.

[Excuse him for being very nostalgic. He's missed the better times they shared.]

Will you come over? Have some tea with me. We can discuss a night-hunt and I will lend you some of my books.

A hunting party? That is sounding like an idea with greatness...

[She pauses, frowning slightly.] I would like to be offering my bow to you but I am not able to be going into the Wilde... yet...

Are you having a bond?

[His archery friend! Xichen's face lights up when he recognizes Petra, because her skills are quite good.]

There are some areas still within the city we could explore as well. The Shades are less common, but they do cause trouble. I'm sure that within a group we can safely support each other.

[A nice beginner's version of a night-hunt, even though hunting is never actually nice.]

A-ah, yes, I- I do.

[It's an awkward one, but he thinks that it has been going better recently. Maybe that's being optimistic, but they haven't had any disagreements recently...]

You... You are not being forward, my lord. I guess the biggest thing I am noticing about myself is that I feel stronger. I do not really get hurt like I did before this.

If it isn't too bold... I wouldn't mind... Joining you on exploring.

Is it- [Okay, maybe don't ask anything too forward.] Ah, would you permit me to ask what kind of monster you are? I would like to meet more people with these new skills.

[It still doesn't sound great to ask about monster things, but he's trying to tread as softly as possible.]

I would like that. I have not been out often with others and the company would be nice.

[He leaves out the part where he just... misses the connections he used to have at home.]

[It was nice to hear someone else having the same speech patterns as her.]

I do not know. Someone of my world narrowed it down to four different types. So far, all I know is that I have scales growing and my eyes are changing, my lord.

[As well as her legs hurting and it was hard to get up in the mornings.]

Thank you my lord... I shall pray that my company won't be a burden to you.

Ah, I see. I know of a few types that have scales, but I didn't realize there were that many possibilities. Has it been difficult for you so far, miss?

[He only has two guesses himself, since it doesn't seem like a chimera would only have scales. Then again, maybe he just doesn't know enough about them. This is why he needs to ask more monster questions!]

You needn't worry about troubling me. I welcome the company. My name is Lan Xichen of Gusu. I am also called Zewu-jun. I hope you will allow me to escort you some time if you have need.

Each option seemed stranger than the last. My lord from my world... He seemed to grow more and more worry with each species. It has been... If only because I do not know what is to come of me. Plus, the desires of whatever I am turning into... I do not agree with them.

[Leanne is right with him with asking all of the questions.]

It is my guess that you are not a monster, my lord?

It is my honor and pleasure to meet you, my lord Zewu-jun. I am known as Leanne of Serenes. It would be my honor to have the pleasure of your company.

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Hopefully this isn't too late.

Sorry for the delay!

It's okay! I am on vacay so I can wait forever if need be! lol

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