And I will accept every bribe, even if I would host Wanyin each time without such generous gifts.
[ He steps in closer, expression warm with a more subtle, frank fondness and steady confidence. Xichen's dark gaze flicks over Jiang Cheng, visibly considering and taking him in. ]
If it helps with your reputation, feel free to spread the news I quailed before such ... fearsomeness.
[ This time, a louder bark of laughter escapes him, and he doesn't even try to hold it back first. Amusement glints in his eyes and his body language is relaxed, leaning slightly towards Lan Xichen as he carefully tracks his approach. ]
How could I turn down such a generous offer? I will brag to all that Zewu-jun found me most impressive.
[ Jiang Cheng's eyes soften, some genuine concern showing now as he lets his gaze wander over Lan Xichen once more, this time taking in his health. ]
Would you host me again? [ he asks, then realizes it is a too roundabout way to ask. He does better with bluntness, anyway. ] I was surprised that you would have me as your guest at all. When we exchanged these letters, I was not convinced you would truly break your seclusion to see me.
It is not bragging if it is the truth, as it has always been on that note.
[ Jiang Cheng is impressive, everyone knows it. Somewhat blacklisted among very particular circles but those have nothing to do with Gusu Lan, nor would Xichen care for the gossip of such people.
He glances down when asked so straight-forwardly, a ghost of a laugh on his lips as he considers this is exactly why he wanted to meet with Jiang Cheng who is famed for his candidness. Seclusion was ... necessary, while he stitched his heart and head back together, feeling more sensible after doing so. He knows he would not be shamed for requiring such solitude but it still raises soft pink to his ears to acknowledge it. ]
Yunmeng Jiang is a sect well-known for its honesty. [ To put it politely. ] Since I have known Jiang Wanyin, from your days seated at our lectures to this moment, I have never known you to be a liar. I would like to discuss an all manner of matters with you concerning the sects, large and small, and gain your opinion of them as well as other things, because I ... think I can trust you. Perhaps above all others, save my own kin.
[ When he looks up, Xichen gives a shake of his head that passes for a shrug in Lan gestures. ]
Even if I do not wish to hear something, I think you will tell me. Not many would.
[ Specifically, only Wangji and his husband are undaunted by telling the First Jade of Lan their uncorrupted input. ]
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no subject
[ He steps in closer, expression warm with a more subtle, frank fondness and steady confidence. Xichen's dark gaze flicks over Jiang Cheng, visibly considering and taking him in. ]
If it helps with your reputation, feel free to spread the news I quailed before such ... fearsomeness.
no subject
How could I turn down such a generous offer? I will brag to all that Zewu-jun found me most impressive.
[ Jiang Cheng's eyes soften, some genuine concern showing now as he lets his gaze wander over Lan Xichen once more, this time taking in his health. ]
Would you host me again? [ he asks, then realizes it is a too roundabout way to ask. He does better with bluntness, anyway. ] I was surprised that you would have me as your guest at all. When we exchanged these letters, I was not convinced you would truly break your seclusion to see me.
no subject
[ Jiang Cheng is impressive, everyone knows it. Somewhat blacklisted among very particular circles but those have nothing to do with Gusu Lan, nor would Xichen care for the gossip of such people.
He glances down when asked so straight-forwardly, a ghost of a laugh on his lips as he considers this is exactly why he wanted to meet with Jiang Cheng who is famed for his candidness. Seclusion was ... necessary, while he stitched his heart and head back together, feeling more sensible after doing so. He knows he would not be shamed for requiring such solitude but it still raises soft pink to his ears to acknowledge it. ]
Yunmeng Jiang is a sect well-known for its honesty. [ To put it politely. ] Since I have known Jiang Wanyin, from your days seated at our lectures to this moment, I have never known you to be a liar. I would like to discuss an all manner of matters with you concerning the sects, large and small, and gain your opinion of them as well as other things, because I ... think I can trust you. Perhaps above all others, save my own kin.
[ When he looks up, Xichen gives a shake of his head that passes for a shrug in Lan gestures. ]
Even if I do not wish to hear something, I think you will tell me. Not many would.
[ Specifically, only Wangji and his husband are undaunted by telling the First Jade of Lan their uncorrupted input. ]