What if dying in the Burial Mounds wasn't the end? What if fate pulls on the strings of reality and gives Wei Wuxian infinite chances at life? If this was truly the case, how would Wei Wuxian spend those lives?
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Wei Wuxian realized he couldn't remain in the Cloud Recesses any longer. What was his purpose there, after all? Waiting out the three months and surrendering his fate to others? No chance.
The thought of staying idle and subservient for such a long period didn't sit well with him. Wei Wuxian was a man of action, a free spirit unbound by rules and restrictions. He thrived on adventure, on pushing the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable. The Cloud Recesses, with its strict regulations and stifling atmosphere, felt like a cage to him. He needed to break free, to embrace the chaos and uncertainty that awaited beyond those walls.
With a determined expression, he made his way toward the exit of the Cloud Recesses, where ordinarily one would need a jade token to pass. Wei Wuxian didn't bother with that formality. After all, if he truly possessed infinite lives and infinite chances, the trivial matter of passing through a barrier meant nothing to him. Life and death held no sway over his fearless spirit. To be honest, the concept of death never frightened him. He merely regarded it as an inconvenience, a restriction on his actions. But now, with death no longer impeding him, Wei Wuxian was truly liberated to pursue his desires.
Raising his hand, he extended his index and middle fingers, imbuing them with radiant light. The energy crackled and danced along his fingertips, a testament to his formidable power. With practiced finesse, he manipulated his hand to effortlessly craft a glowing talisman. Drawing upon the depths of his spiritual energy, he channeled it into the talisman, infusing it with strength and purpose. As the talisman glowed brighter, the barrier of the Cloud Recesses quivered and weakened under the sheer force of his will.
With a triumphant smile, Wei Wuxian shattered the barrier, his path now clear before him. Nonchalantly strolling out as if nothing had occurred, he continued his descent down the mountain, absentmindedly twirling a stick in his hand. The air was crisp and invigorating, a stark contrast to the stifling aura of the Cloud Recesses. The freedom he felt was intoxicating, fueling his adventurous spirit and filling him with a sense of exhilaration. Wei Wuxian was like a bird released from its cage, soaring through the open skies, eager to explore the vast world that lay ahead.
As expected, before long, two disciples from Gusu appeared, hot on his trail. Their robes billowed behind them as they sprinted, their expressions a mix of concern and determination.
"Gongzi! Please come back. We need to discuss why you breached the boundary," one of the disciples called out, his voice laced with urgency.
Wei Wuxian glanced over his shoulder, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He knew they wouldn't let him escape so easily. But that didn't dampen his spirits. On the contrary, it fueled his excitement. He loved a good chase, a game of wits and agility.
"Come and catch me if you can!" he called back, his voice filled with playful challenge. With a burst of energy, he increased his pace, his steps light and nimble as he weaved through the forest, effortlessly navigating the terrain. The disciples, determined to fulfill their duty, pursued him relentlessly, their footsteps echoing in the crisp mountain air.
Wei Wuxian led them on a merry chase, darting through thickets and leaping over fallen logs. He reveled in the thrill of the pursuit, the rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins. His laughter echoed through the trees, a joyful melody that danced on the wind. But he was careful not to lead them too far astray. He knew that eventually, he would have to face the consequences of his actions. For now, however, he relished in the freedom, in the exhilaration of the moment.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Wei Wuxian slowed his pace. He could sense that the disciples were drawing nearer, their breaths heavy and labored. With a quick glance around, he found himself in a small clearing, bathed in dappled sunlight. It seemed like the perfect spot to confront his pursuers.
Coming to a halt, he turned to face the approaching disciples, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. He held up his hands in mock surrender, the stick he had been twirling earlier now resting casually against his shoulder.
"Well, well, you've caught me," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "But I must say, you've made the chase quite enjoyable."
The disciples, their faces flushed with exertion, glared at him reproachfully. They were clearly unamused by his antics. One of them stepped forward, his expression stern and resolute.
"Gongzi, you broke the boundary of the Cloud Recesses," he said, his voice firm but respectful. "There will be consequences for your actions."
Wei Wuxian's smile didn't waver. He knew what he had done, and he was prepared to face the consequences. But he wouldn't let that dampen his spirit or curb his sense of adventure. He was Wei Wuxian, after all, and he was destined to leave his mark on the world.
With a nod, he submitted himself to their custody, allowing them to lead him back to the Cloud Recesses. As they made their way through the familiar surroundings, Wei Wuxian couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The Cloud Recesses had been his home once, a place where he had found solace and friendship. But he had outgrown it, and now it was time for him to embark on a new chapter of his life.
As they approached the gate, Wei Wuxian's gaze fell upon Lan Xichen, who stood waiting with a mixture of concern and disappointment etched upon his features. Lan Xichen had always been a pillar of stability and wisdom, someone Wei Wuxian held in high regard. He knew that facing Lan Xichen would be more challenging than facing the disciples.
Taking a deep breath, Wei Wuxian braced himself for the inevitable confrontation. "Good morning, Sect Leader Lan," he said casually, "What can I do for you?" Lan Xichen stared sternly into his eyes. "I'm sure you are well aware by now, Gongzi, that the Cloud Recesses uses barriers and magical enchantments to protect the population. I would like to address your actions this morning."
After a stern scolding from Lan Xichen, Wei Wuxian was ushered to the punishment hall. For breaking the barrier, Wei Wuxian got 20 strikes from the ruler. Lan Qiren was twitching in anger. While Lan Qiren thinks he isn't listening, Wei Wuxian can hear him arguing with Lan Xichen. "That boy is trouble! Why should we have to deal with it?"
***
Wei Wuxian lay silently in his room, back still throbbing from the earlier punishment. The moon was high in the sky and the night was silent. Slowly rising, Wei Wuxian left the Cloud Recesses. He did so without breaking the border. While the disciples were chasing him earlier, it gave Wei Wuxian the opportunity to steal a Jade Token.
Starting his descent down the mountain, Wei Wuxian was gone with the night.
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Hope you enjoyed the chapter! See you in the next one.
