Celebratory Dinner

[jiangzaid]

WHO: Xue Yang, Song Lan, Xiao Xingchen, Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian
WHEN: January 30, evening
WHAT: Xue Yang's celebrating being in Gazin for a year with his family! And...extended family that he knows about. Something of a mingle!
WHERE: His house at the edge of Gazin
WARNINGS: Shouldn't be any but will update as needed!


Prep time!
Xue Yang has barely been aware of the passage of time, it's true. And he's not entirely sure when he first arrived, only that it looks around this time. And so much has happened! He knows he's amusing his Daozhangs with his extra energy, but he only grins and keeps going. So much to cook! So much to bake!

Including a couple vegetarian options, with a thought to the rumored diet of the GusuLan, that they do not eat meat. Not that it's difficult, for Xingchen rarely does too - he thinks. He doesn't mind making sure everyone will have something to eat. There are mild flavored dishes and spicy ones, as well as a stew. And of course there is a tasty fruit tart that mingles sweet and tart, as well as an assortment of candies - sweet, tart, or with a nice kick of spice.


General bouncing around
In between prep sessions, Xue Yang is working on making sure the cabin and immediate surroundings are clean and tidy, and the horses are tucked away, cozy in their stable with plenty of hay, oats, and fresh water that is in a trough magicked to not freeze courtesy of Merlan. He'd sent a messenger the day before to invite his Senior and Hanguang-Jun - Lan Sizhui would have been invited too if he knew the boy was in Gazin.

And there's a nice fire roaring away, keeping the cabin nice and toasty. There's no sign of Jiangzai, or any weapon at all on the gremlin, and there are pretty little decorations scattered here and there, arranged just so to not appear cluttered. But to personalize the warm home he and Song Lan have made for the three of them.

Comments

[jiangzaid]

How can he do anything but heal at the warm, strong, gentle hands of his husband? Not only does he love the attention and affection, but the massages and soaks feel obscenely good. Even with the occasional flash of pain that gets quickly soothed.

Xue Yang leans into the hand as Zichen smooths his hair back. "I like going out to ride, and the cold is nice after being in the forge much of the day." He turns his head to steal a kiss, mischievous love shining in his eyes. "So are you. I won't forget anything you've taught me. Even if you leave...I won't stop being someone you can love." Another kiss, as if to seal it as a promise.

He grins at the sound his sweet husband makes and tightens his embrace. "You can do anything you want with me. I'll snuggle close so you're not too cold either!"

[zichen]

He has to admit - at least to himself - that he likes touching his husband. He likes soothing him and following the curves and planes of his body. The sounds his A-Yang makes are tantalizing, of course, but he tells himself sternly that he isn't helping him because it's pleasurable!

But it is a nice side effect.

"Wear a cloak and keep your hand covered." Zichen rests his hand on Xue Yang's cheek, his lips parting in surprise at the kiss. His gaze drops shyly but it doesn't last.

"This is you. This is your best self. Whether I'm here or not, I love you." he leans into the next kiss, helping to seal the promise with a low hum. The arms tightening around him feel good and his smile is a little dazed.

"Thank you. I can't be cold if you do that." he glances to their new baby when she squeaks, gently nudging his beloved to the basket bed, "You can soothe her. She likes being pet softly."

[jiangzaid]

A very, very nice side effect~ That always leaves him feeling rather boneless, safe, and loved.

"I do," he murmurs. "I know how you worry, so I try to do things to lessen it." But he can't help a playful little grin either! "Though you are rather cute when you worry about me. And I do like how you fuss over me."

Xue Yang nods, listening intently. Every time his A-Lan says those amazing words, he remembers them. He tucks the memory away, close to his heart. He happily leans in against his husband and nuzzles that sweet dazed smile, helpless against how sweet Zichen looks.

But then he hears a squeak! He doesn't need to be told twice, and releases his husband to move softly over to the basket. Slow, gentle, quiet - that's what Zichen had asked of him. "Hello sweet one," he croons as he settles carefully beside the basket and slowly reaches in to rub gentle fingertips over her soft fur. There's a child-like sense of awe that settles over him again, making it simple to be calm and quiet. "You're safe."

[zichen]

He sleeps better like that, doesn't he? Zichen never minds sharing his A-Yang's body heat; it helps him look after him. If he were to sleep in another bed or room, he might miss Xue Yang's discomfort or pain. That would be awful.

And, frankly, he likes holding him and hearing the soft sound of his breathing.

"It's my nature."

Someone has to worry. Xingchen isn't very good at looking after himself either. But that's okay. They have him and so he will keep them safe.

"Cute...?" his nose wrinkles faintly. He didn't know he could be cute? Then again, he can't see himself right now. He can't see how young he looks when he smiles or how greatly Xue Yang affects him - his eyes brightening and his skin flushing. The nuzzling is met with a long kiss.

Then he lets his beloved go, smiling tenderly at the little ball of black fuzz.

"Perfect." he murmurs, voice rich with approval at how Xue Yang chooses to approach the tiny creature. The little twitching and squeaking quiets and she seems to heave a big (for her) sigh of relief.

Zichen kneels down beside his husband and rubs over his back.

"Think of names, A-Yang. Once you know her better."

[jiangzaid]

Oh yes. He sleeps very well most nights now, curled up with his husband. Zichen always feels warm, and Xue Yang loves knowing the other man is right there with him.

"I love your nature."

And doesn't Xue Yang worry, now, over his Daozhangs? Yes. He does. He fusses over them too. That nose wrinkling makes him grin and he nuzzles their noses together. Only to sigh into the long kiss, eyes fluttering closed as he thoroughly enjoys it.

Hearing that approval at how he approaches the baby squirrel has him flush with delight. It only feels natural to move so carefully around a creature so small! He keeps up the gentle petting, but settles against his husband again and hums at the rubbing to his back.

"I will."

[zichen]

Any bad dreams are kissed away and Zichen reminds Xue Yang, if necessary, of his strength. How can a nightmare possibly overwhelm him? That's preposterous. So Xue Yang is safe and loved and tucked into his arms and against his strong chest.

"I love yours."

Who his husband is now - who he should have been all along. He likes being fussed over - to him, it's just another sign of love. The nuzzling makes his heart ache and he leans into the kiss, making sure his A-Yang is kissed thoroughly and well.

Their baby interrupts them, though Zichen can only smile. He loves watching Xue Yang being sweet and gentle.

"I'll show you how much milk to give her. As she grows, she won't need feedings as frequently."

It's then that the little squirrel opens her eyes and peers up at them, her paws latching onto Xue Yang's finger. She sniffs his hand intently and gives a yawn.

[jiangzaid]

That strength is what allows Xue Yang to fall back asleep after any nightmare does wake him. That stubbornness to hold onto him, even with him having told Zichen everything. He doesn't take it for granted.

He flushes shyly at that reply, knowing what his husband means. "I like myself a lot more now," he admits. "I'm happy."

And then he's being kissed like that! And it steals his breath away, not that he minds even a little. He's panting for breath by the time it breaks.

He doesn't mind their little one's interruption either! It means he gets to fuss lightly over her and introduce himself.

"She'll always get what she needs. And more love than she can handle!" And then she opens her eyes, and Xue Yang feels her latch onto his heart, as well as his finger. He wiggles that finger a little, smiling down at her as he lets her keep it. "Go back to sleep, little one," he croons to her. "We'll check on you again."

[zichen]

"I want you to be happy." Zichen reinforces, peering into his husband's eyes solemnly, "You chose to make the changes, A-Yang. You chose to align yourself with Xingchen and me. I love the man you have become; you feel...freer...to me." he softens his demeanor and smiles, "But I don't want you to be someone you're not for anyone. Not for Xingchen or me. Just...be safe."

And then he kisses Xue Yang, fiercely, demonstrating his love for him. For as long as his husband wants him to follow him, to walk the same path, hand in hand, he will.

The tiny squirrel seems to like the fussing! She puffs out a breath at the wiggling, holding onto his finger tighter. Her belly is soft and round from Zichen's care - she was so thin when he found her - and there is a sparkle in her eyes.

"She'll be playful." as most squirrels are - another reason Zichen thought of his beloved when he found her. Yet she has some growing to do before she can truly play with him. Her eyes lid and then close and she tucks her fluffy tail against her face, all nice and snug.

[jiangzaid]

Xue Yang stares back, not shying from his husband's solemn regard. "Do you remember when A-Chen first left us here? And again when I told you both everything, how I was before we reconnected? I could have gone back to who I was before. Easily. I didn't...because that's not who I am anymore.

"You two are special and important to me. But I won't...revert to the monster I used to be. I like who I am now. You both showed me the way and have given me so much...so many ways to stay...Free."

He purrs into that kiss, opening himself to it freely, joyously. Just as fiercely loving as Zichen gives him.

The little squirrel makes him grin again and he rubs a thumb gently over her sweet head, encouraging her to sleep - and to admire her soft fur! He stifles the laugh when the baby wraps her tail around her and very carefully withdraws his hand. So cute! "And full of mischief," he adds with a glint of that himself.

[zichen]

"I do." he answers calmly, letting Xue Yang speak the truth without interruption. Without judgement. This is a truth that makes him happy, however, unlike what he had been told before. Zichen nods, expression open and sweet at his beloved's choice.

"You were in so much pain. Not just physically, either. Your heart was broken and you were writhing, taking down those who ventured close enough to you. I know why you sought out Xingchen; why you wanted his attention. He is someone you need; someone pure and good who can give you another chance." he pauses and adds, less steadily, "I'm not like him. I'm not nice to you because I'm innocent or naive; I'm nice to you because you have earned it. You have proven yourself to be a good man, Xue Yang."

Just the sort of man who makes Zichen's blood burn and his body come to life after a long season of frost. The kiss takes his breath away and he pants, licking his lips as they part.

"Yes, love. Always full of mischief." he grins down at the sleepy baby and strokes over her ears with his fingertip, "She will do well. I want her to bond with you especially. Do you have any old fabric that smells like you, by chance?"

[jiangzaid]

This skill Zichen has, to just let him talk and talk and talk, not interrupting or judging; it's something Xue Yang needs, too. He knows he can tell his husband anything, that he doesn't need to hide even the smallest thing. Zichen has come to accept him, and that belief in him is something he relies on.

And he repays that respect, happy to listen openly to anything his Zichen has to say. He holds his sweet husband at that unsteady note, his expression remains open and soft. "And that is a gift, love. That you can love me, be nice to me, for who I am, despite what I used to do. You two gave me a chance and showed me how to take it."

The fact they've learned how to drive each other mad with desire is just another bonus~ Xue Yang enjoys teasing his husband into ravishing him.

He kisses his husband's cheek at the question and carefully pulls away to get the old under tunic he'd worn when he first came to Gazin. He hasn't worn the old robes since that first couple weeks, choosing to adopt the style of the locals here. And this old tunic has certainly seen better days. He carefully folds it up as he returns to his husband's side. "Make it into a bed for her?"

[zichen]

"It's in the past." Zichen raises one of Xue Yang's hands to his lips, kissing his fingers, "If we were all held accountable, endlessly, for our mistakes, how miserable would we be? Forgiveness exists for those who are truly filled with regret. And once forgiveness is given, the past holds no power over the future."

Speaking of said mad desire, Zichen knows, soon, he will have no choice but to pin his husband to a wall...or their bed. But he won't ravish him mid-party. That would be impolite.

Still, he smiles to himself at the thought, feeling a little mischievous.

"Yes. Then she will equate your scent with comfort." he arches a brow, "Will you lift her, love? Cradle her in your hands and I will see the bed made."

[jiangzaid]

He hums in agreement, watching as his hand is pulled up for those kisses, a quiet softness in his eyes. "I love you, A-Lan," he murmurs.

Oh dear, what ever will he do?

Xue Yang grins, just getting to see that mischief. He sets the cloth on his husband's lap before carefully reaching in to gently scoop up the little squirrel. He holds her close, eyes going wide again in awe at how tiny and delicate she feels.

[zichen]

Xue Yang's other hand is given attention too and Zichen gives him a smile that can't be described as anything but radiant with love.

"You are part of my family, A-Yang."

There can be no higher honor. And hopefully Xue Yang won't try to escape should Zichen be unable to behave himself. Some of that mischief must have been passed on!

The baby gives a little stretch and rests her cheek against Xue Yang's palm.

"You have good hands. I've noticed how gentle you can be." Zichen quickly remakes the bed, tucking in the tunic so she can burrow under it if she likes.

[jiangzaid]

That makes his breath catch and his cheeks flush, along with that particular smile. And he knows what those words mean to his Zichen. It's not even just being married. It's a far deeper thing for this man - and for him. "And you are part of mine," he answers with a rather besotted sigh.

Oh no. He has no intention of ever trying to escape his A-Lan~ Zichen is far too serious! He needs to get to be playful, and Xue Yang loves encouraging it!

The stretch the little squirrel does is unfairly cute and makes his heart melt just a little more! He can't resist leaning down to press a very careful kiss to her little head. "She's so delicate," he answers, hushed. "I don't want to hurt her." And yet he's reluctant to set her down, when his husband has the new bed ready for her.

But Xingchen is likely making tea for them by now, and so he gently sets her down and tucks her in with one last gentle rub of a fingertip.

[zichen]

Family is everything. He is like a wolf in that regard. Once he recognizes someone has a pack member, that is an honor they will keep for life. Furthermore, he will do his utmost to protect them for life.

"Mm I like that. I want to be part of A-Yang's family." Zichen nuzzles their noses together, nipping at Xue Yang's lips. His newly discovered mischief can't always be contained and today is special. Gazin has had a good effect on his beloved and he is grateful to this village. To this world.

Xue Yang will discover that baby squirrels - especially clean babies - smell sweet and like their mother's milk. Since Zichen can't acquire squirrel milk, he has been feeding the baby goat's milk. A farmer generously offered after seeing her and she has taken to it hungrily.

"She's stronger than she looks." Zichen whispers, kissing the side of his husband's head, "You won't. Remember how soft you are with Xingchen's bandages? That's all she needs."

Promisingly, the baby wiggles under the tunic as soon as she is set down. It must be a good scent!

[jiangzaid]

He loves his wolf fiercely. He snickers at the nipping and playfully nips right back. He reaches up to thread fingers through his sweet husband's hair, brushing strands back behind an ear and runs a fingertip along the shell.

The people of this world have been great. He likes laughing with them, exchanging stories, and sharing to make sure everyone has what they need. And his attitude has been rewarded, as he's proven himself both an able and amiable barterer, but also fair. If someone who needs something from the forge can't pay entirely in coin, but what they can afford isn't quite enough, some other arrangement is made - be in in manual labor or food.

Xue Yang smiles at the reassurance and kiss to his head, and hums at the comment. "That's easy. She's too cute and sweet to treat rougher than even A-Chen." And his smile turns mushy when the sweet baby proves his point by wiggling under the tunic.

[zichen]

The return of his nipping inflames him and he looks over Xue Yang hungrily. His scalp tingles and he arches against the hand, unable to stop himself. Want is written all over his face and body and it's hard for him to think beyond his heart pounding in his ears.

"Exactly." he manages, voice husky, "She needs you - just as we do. Xingchen and I."

Only her bottom sticks out from under the folded tunic and it's clear, by her breathing, that she is fast asleep again. Zichen chuckles and rises back onto his feet.

"She's a good girl. I had one in my care for a short while at the temple. He slept when he liked and kept me awake when he liked."

[jiangzaid]

Xue Yang smirks, meeting that hungry look without any hint of shame. He loves feeling wanted. And knowing it's not an act. He nudges their noses together though. "Save that thought for after dinner, love," he murmurs.

"And I need you all."

He immediately stands, following his beloved's lead when they see proof the little squirrel is asleep. He reaches for a hand to hold and lead Zichen back downstairs. "We can take turns feeding and cuddling her."

[zichen]

"I have more than a few thoughts for after dinner." Zichen responds impishly, his low voice carrying in its amusement. But he doesn't mind if he is overheard. They are married and it would be wrong if they weren't besotted with one another.

"I'm not leaving you." he slides their hands together, lightly touching before he takes hold, "I like that idea."

Their bed surely has room for a squirrel! They won't be able to resist her when she starts to toddle.

[jiangzaid]

That makes him giddy! "Ooooh," he purrs, eyes bright in answer as he grins. "Are you going to remind me just how sweet you taste?" Oh so married~

He likes how their hands slide together even before clasping together. "I know you aren't," he answers. "Just as I won't leave either of you."

A squirrel, a third adult...Though at first the basket will need to stay her bed, so they don't accidentally squash her!

[zichen]

"If you want a taste, I won't deny you." he grins slowly, provocatively, bowing his head so no one will see the expression as they make their way downstairs. No, he knows if his A-Yang has any choice in the matter, he will stay.

"Have a good time, love. This gathering is for you." Zichen pauses at the base of the stairs to give Xue Yang a sweet kiss, "I'll come get you in about an hour for her feeding."

[jiangzaid]

That sends a shiver through him and he studies his lover intently, considering the tempting offer. But after a moment he sighs and the sweet kiss remains chaste as he reigns in his hot desire for this naughty husband of his.

"The wait will be worthwhile," he decides. He tilts his head, wondering if he is, in the end, pushing too hard. "Will you not join us for dinner? Senior and Hanguang-Jun are probably just going to be here for it and not stick around."

[zichen]

"Yes, it will." Zichen promises, sensing that his lover is torn. The chaste kiss ends with a small nip at Xue Yang's lower lip. Well, he can't completely behave himself!

"I wanted to make sure the dishes are ready." he flushes at the sight of that expression and nuzzles their noses together, "A-Yang, don't look so sad. I'll be there. But I want everything to be perfect for you."

[jiangzaid]

He growls quietly, playfully and answers that nip with one of his own, leaning against his husband for a lingering moment.

And his A-Lan soothes him and he smiles, relaxing at the sweet nuzzling. "You and A-Chen will be there with me, and we're having guests who probably won't kill me." The cheeky little grin will hopefully soften the wording. "Of course it will be perfect."