Reliving Our Fears

Chapter 11: Punishment of The Ages

Hello! It seems I have given up on daily updating. Fear not, I am on break in a few days. While normal people would take this time to rest, I will take this time to write as much as writer's block will allow! Anyways, enjoy the chapter!

(P.s. I may or may not have slipped in a few Chinese phrases here and there. A side effect of being Chinese and writing in an ancient Chinese evironment haha)

Wei Wuxian had regained consciousness and was somewhat aware of his surroundings. Nevertheless, he found himself completely immobilized, unable to even twitch a single muscle. This state of complete bodily paralysis proved to be an immense inconvenience as Wei Wuxian's body twitched with the urge to move. However, amidst this unfortunate situation, it presented a unique and invaluable opportunity for Wei Wuxian to eavesdrop and meticulously analyze the confines of his surroundings.

The gentle voice of Lan Xichen, unmistakable to Wei Wuxian, reached his ears. It became evident that the conversation revolved around none other than himself. Muffled and distant, the retorts of Lan Qiren were muffled at best, his outrage incoherent. 

However, Lan Xichen's gentle and authoritative voice was clear. "Uncle, I understand this situation is not pleasant for you, nor is it convenient. Nonetheless, we need to take in the man. He will be treated worse than poorly if in the hands of Sect Leader Jiang. You must understand that I take no pleasure in doing this either. But we, however, as the Lan Sect of Gusu, cannot pass up an opportunity to turn down those in need."

 Despite his physical inability to move, Wei Wuxian couldn't help but mentally quirk his lips, finding irony in the fact that even a member of a righteous sect such as Lan Qiren could possess such a volatile temper as oppose to his own nephew.

Footsteps gradually drew closer, prompting Wei Wuxian to instinctively shut his eyes—the only part of his body he could move without difficulty. It was Lan Xichen who spoke, his voice addressing Wei Wuxian respectfully, "Good morning, Gongzi. I presume you are now awake?"

Upon being addressed, act seen through, Wei Wuxian obediently opened his eyes, meeting the gaze of Sect Leader Lan. Lan Xichen appeared apologetic as he spoke, "I offer my sincere apologies, Xiansheng, for the imposition of the Body-Locking Spell. I shall promptly release you from this state." With a tap on Wei Wuxian's shoulder, his body seemed free from a frozen state, able to move again.

Slowly, albeit with some difficulty, Wei Wuxian sat up, feeling soreness and numbness coursing through his body from the extended period of immobility. "Is there anything you require, Sect Leader Lan?" Wei Wuxian inquired, massaging his temples in a temporary attempt to alleviate the persistent headache that blurred his mind.

"Please disregard my presence, Gongzi. I have come to inform you of your new abode within The Cloud Recesses," Lan Xichen informed, his tone carrying a sense of formality. "Should you be unfamiliar, our sect adheres to over 3000 rules, all of which are intended to ensure the safety and well-being of our members. While we do not expect instant familiarity with our sect's ways, it would be highly advantageous for the sake of the larger community if you were to acquaint yourself with them."

Wei Wuxian maintained a composed countenance externally, while internally he derived amusement from the situation. Reflecting on his previous days spent studying in the Cloud Recesses, he reminisced, "Little do you know, I am excessively acquainted with the family rules of the Cloud Recesses. I once had the task of transcribing them for an entire month!"

Lan Xichen continued, "We grant you the freedom to explore the entirety of The Cloud Recesses, provided you report to one of our sect elders. It is expected that you return to your quarters before curfew, rise prior to 6 am, and partake in breakfast, lunch, and dinner with everyone else. Additional instructions and details will be conveyed to you in written form. Punctuality is of utmost importance."

Wei Wuxian listened attentively, though only partially engaged. It felt as if he were being lectured by Lan Xichen, a sensation he harbored a profound aversion towards. Despite his fervent attempts to bury the past, fragmented memories resurfaced, evoking scenes of the Lan Sect's emblem proudly adorning the crimson sky, a defiant symbol in the face of Wei Wuxian, the Yilling Louzu. Lan Xichen's resemblance to Lan Wangji, combined with his well-meaning words, inadvertently reminded Wei Wuxian of the argument he once had with his former comrade.

"Wei Wuxian, cease your foolish play! Put down the flute!" Lan Wangji's words echoed in his mind. Wei Wuxian had long been aware that their paths would eventually diverge. Lan Wangji's unwavering dedication to righteousness clashed with Wei Wuxian's own disposition, even during their childhood. The seeds of conflict were sown early on, and their friendship was destined to unravel. "That's assuming you were even friends to begin with," A traitorous voice spoke at the back of his mind.

Observing the inadvertent bitterness that contorted Wei Wuxian's features, Lan Xichen inquired if anything was amiss. Wei Wuxian shook his head, watching as Lan Xichen departed, leaving him alone with his ruminations.

Resting his head against the soft bedding, Wei Wuxian closed his eyes, succumbing to the onslaught of vivid and painful flashbacks that flooded his mind once more.