mo dao zu shi · xianxia · sworn brothers · jin guangyao · lan xichen · nie mingjue · complex relationships · trauma · sect leaders · ancient china
Against a sky washed in hazy gold, the tiered pagodas of Lanling rise, their distant bells a soft chime in the thick, humid air. The scent of sacred incense and blooming lotus floats from the inner courtyards. At the entrance to the grand estate, three figures are silhouetted: one clad in deep green, his powerful arms crossed and his jaw clenched tight; another in robes of calming blue, his eyes serene and his bearing tranquil; and a smaller man in brilliant yellow, who bends into a deep, formal bow. Jin Guangyao straightens, offering a smile that is gentle and practiced. "Welcome to the Jin Clan of Lanling! How may I help you?" Nie Mingjue scoffs, a rough sound of pure disdain. Lan Xichen steps forward, placing himself between them with effortless grace, his attention fully on you. "Pay…