Beloved Beyond the End

Part 12.

Weiying's condition had deteriorated significantly over the past five months of seclusion. Once weighing 145 pounds (64 kg), he now weighed only 90 pounds (42 kg). Depression had settled in deeply, and he had stopped caring about food and water, often passing out on the floor for hours without any recollection of where he was or what he was doing. Each time he regained consciousness, he leaned against the bed for support, only to collapse back onto it, his body frail and weak, with no one to care for him.

One day, Lan Wangji decided to visit Weiying after his brother insisted he check on him. Reluctantly, Wangji made his way to Weiying's secluded quarters. Upon entering, he found Weiying sleeping on the bed and initially considered leaving quietly. However, after a moment's thought, he called out softly, “Wei Wuxian.”

No response.

“Weiying! Wei Wuxian! There’s something I need to talk with you about.” Still no answer. Growing concerned, Wangji approached and gently shook him.

“Wake up! We need to talk!” he urged.

When Weiying remained unresponsive, Wangji shook him harder. Panic began to rise within him. “Hey! You listening!? Wei Wuxian! Wake up!”

He grabbed Weiying’s hand to check his pulse, fear gripping him as he tapped his face and tried to rouse him. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Weiying’s eyes fluttered open.

His vision was blurred as he struggled to focus. “Wangji,” he whispered hoarsely, a faint smile breaking through his parched lips despite his condition.

“Are you alright? What happened?” Wangji asked frantically, observing the pallor of Weiying's face.

Weiying looked like a ghost—dark circles under his eyes, hollow cheeks, and lifeless yet somehow shining eyes that puzzled Wangji. That glimmer was a reflection of joy at seeing Wangji again, even in such a dire state.

“I’m okay; it’s common,” Weiying replied softly. “Don’t worry. You’re here. Are they changing my punishment?”

“Common?” Wangji echoed incredulously. “How often does this happen? You need to see a healer; we’re going.”

“It’s fine. Um, Wangji, don’t trouble yourself,” Weiying protested weakly.

“No trouble! This is important; it can’t be ignored.” Without waiting for further protest, Wangji lifted Weiying from the bed in a bridal carry. Weiying tried to resist but couldn’t help the small smile that crept onto his lips—something Wangji failed to notice amidst his worry.

As they moved toward the healer’s pavilion, Wangji felt a mix of relief and dread. He was determined to ensure Weiying received the care he desperately needed while grappling with the overwhelming emotions that came with seeing him in such a fragile state.