A Means to an End (WangXian)

Similarities

"My father won't be fooled for much longer. Wen Rouhan has already been in communication with him recently."

Nie Mingjue looked disturbed. He had a grim look. "Do you know what was discussed?"

Jin Zixuan shook his head. "Not in enough details. I know he was informed of your movements and location. Whether or not my father plans on joining in the attack is still up for question."

Lan Xichen set down his cup of tea. "This is concerning. If Jin Guangshan chooses to support Wen Rouhan, they would have a larger advantage over us. Their numbers are already a major concern."

"What does Wei Wuxian think of the recent development?" Nie Mingjue asked.

Lan Xichen shook his head. "He has been spending time with A-Yuan."

Jin Zixuan scoffed. "War is at our doorstep and he is playing with a child."

Lan Xichen frowned, but kept calm. "The circumstances for his diverted attention on the war front outweighs what we are currently discussing. The only reason the Wens have not invaded sooner is because of Wei-gongzi's warding talismans. We should be thankful of the extra time he has given us."

Jin Zixuan remained quiet. It became clear to him that Wei Wuxian's standing has significantly increased, even after what happened at Lotus Pier. He has the support of two other major sects. Jin Zixuan hates to admit it, but Wei Wuxian was no longer someone to interfere with.

"Would it be wise to seek out more information about Jin Guangshan's plans?" Meng Yao included. He had recently arrived and joined the meeting discussing the Wen's movements. Nie Huaisang became anxious at his arrival and even chose to join in the meeting as well but has been too distracted to add much input. 

At Meng Yao's question, his back immediately straightened, shoulders squared. "I don't think that's necessary!" he yelped.

All eyes turned to him. "Huaisang, is everything alright?" Nie Mingjue asked. He knew his brother well enough to know that Nie Huaisang was overwhelmed by something. In fact, Nie Mingjue had the distinct suspicion that it only happens when Meng Yao is mentioned or is in the room. It's almost as if Nie Huaisang goes back to being this terrified child that always had a hard time being around others. It reminded him of the Nie Huaisang before he learned about the time traveling. 

Nie Huaisang gave a reluctant smile. "Yes! I just mean-there's still a good chance Jin Guangshan won't get involved. Unless there is something that Jin Guangshan gets out of this, he would rather remain on the sidelines and see how the pieces fall."

Nie Mingjue still narrowed his eyes in suspicion, but chose not to speak up. Even Lan Xichen knew the conversation was best to be diverted. Nie Huaisang would know more than the rest of them. Both him and Nie Mingjue have a good feeling there is something that Nie Huaisang and Wei Wuxian have both decided not to tell them.

"I brought as many people as I could without raising alarm. As far as he is aware, I am spending time in Lotus Pier, as per my mother's request. However, I did leave someone reliable behind to keep an eye on things. I'll have a report from him soon."

Lan Xichen nodded. "That is much appreciated. I believe for now, the matter is settled. Jin-gongzi, please take this time to get settled in. Things will be moving quickly from here on."

Jin Zixuan stood and bowed to the two of them before turning and leaving the room. The moment he was gone, Nie Mingjue turned to glare at his younger brother.

Wei Wuxian stared down at the talisman on the table in front of him, a sleeping A-Yuan curled up in his arms.