thrown back in time

chapter 3

"Oh, my back... this is really going to waste my time," Nie Huaisang thought as he lay in his room, staring at the ceiling. He had two days to fix things before everything started going downhill.

A few minutes later, he heard a knock on the door. It was Jiang Cheng, who entered with a concerned expression.

"Hey! Get up. I brought you something to eat. Well, actually, it's soup my sister prepared," Jiang Cheng said, placing the bowl on a nearby table.

"Well, say thanks to her on my behalf, and it's delicious," Huaisang replied, sipping the soup gratefully.

"Why did you lie? I would really break your legs," Jiang Cheng said, anger and worry evident in his voice.

"Aww, you are worried about me," Huaisang teased, a small smile playing on his lips.

"No, I am not," Jiang Cheng said, trying to cover his worry. "Eat it while it's still hot," he added, practically running out of the room.

After finishing the soup, Huaisang decided to step outside. As he walked through the corridors of the Cloud Recesses, he noticed a sense of urgency and commotion. The whole place was being searched. He approached Jiang Yanli, who was overseeing some disciples.

"Miss Jiang, thank you for the soup. It was delicious," Huaisang said gracefully, bowing to her. She returned the courtesy with a warm smile.

"Do you know what is happening here?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

"A-Xian and Second Childe Lan are missing. They were last seen heading to the Cold Springs," she replied, worry evident in her eyes.

"Don't worry. I'm sure they will be fine," Huaisang reassured her, knowing exactly where they might be. He hurried to the Cold Springs and, as expected, found them there. Jiang Cheng and Wen Qing were also present, looking anxious.

"Brother Wei!" Huaisang called out, rushing over to Wei Ying. He held his arm, trying to support himself, and then noticed Lan Wangji standing nearby. He tried to bow. "Second Childe Lan," he greeted, to which Lan Wangji responded with a curt nod.

"Are you okay, Brother Wei?" Huaisang asked, worry evident in his voice.

"I'm fine, Brother Nie. Now, come on, let's go and stop the search team," Wei Ying said, placing his arm around Huaisang's shoulder.

As they made their way back, Huaisang couldn't help but think about how different everything felt now that he was back in the past. The bond between them was still strong, and despite the impending challenges, he felt a sense of hope.

They reached the main courtyard where the search was still ongoing. Wei Ying quickly stepped forward to address everyone.

"Everyone, stop the search! We're all here," Wei Ying announced, his voice carrying authority and reassurance. The disciples and elders visibly relaxed, and the search efforts ceased.

Lan Xichen approached them, his expression one of relief mixed with curiosity. "What happened?" he asked, his gaze shifting between Wei Ying, Lan Wangji, and Huaisang.

"We went to the Cold Springs and lost track of time. I'm sorry for causing such a commotion," Wei Ying explained, scratching the back of his head sheepishly.

Lan Xichen nodded, his features softening. "As long as everyone is safe, that's what matters."

Huaisang took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his mission pressing down on him. He had to use the next two days wisely to set things in motion. With a determined resolve, he decided to start implementing his plans.

That night, he sat in his room, scribbling notes and making detailed plans. He needed to ensure the safety of his brother and the Nie Clan. Every step had to be calculated and precise. His mind raced with possibilities, each idea more ambitious than the last.

The next morning, he woke up early, his back still aching but his spirit unyielding. He made his way to the lecture hall, determined to start with the barrier talismans. As he worked meticulously on each talisman, he could hear the faint sounds of his classmates chatting and laughing outside. It was a stark reminder of how different his priorities were now.

Midway through his work, he was interrupted by a knock on the door. It was Lan Xichen.

"Nie Gongzi, how are you feeling today?" Lan Xichen asked, his tone gentle and concerned.

"I'm feeling better, thank you, Sect Leader Lan," Huaisang replied, trying to hide his discomfort.

"May I ask what you are working on?" Lan Xichen inquired, his curiosity evident.

"Just some barrier talismans. I thought they might be useful," Huaisang explained, showing him a partially completed talisman.

Lan Xichen examined it closely, nodding in approval. "These look very well-crafted. Your dedication is commendable."

"Thank you, Sect Leader," Huaisang said, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

As Lan Xichen left, Huaisang returned to his work with renewed focus. The day flew by, and by evening, he had completed enough talismans for the Cloud Recesses, the Nie Clan, and the Jiang Clan. Satisfied with his progress, he allowed himself a moment of rest.

The following day, Huaisang woke up early again, eager to begin placing the talismans. He met with Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng, who were both ready to help.

"Brother Nie, are you sure about this?" Jiang Cheng asked, looking at the stack of talismans.

"Absolutely. These will help protect us all," Huaisang replied confidently.

Together, they began placing the talismans around the Cloud Recesses, ensuring each one was strategically positioned. The process took most of the day, but by evening, they had covered a significant area.

As they finished, Huaisang felt a sense of accomplishment and relief. This was just the beginning, but it was a crucial step. He knew the days ahead would be challenging, but with his friends by his side and his determination unwavering, he felt ready to face whatever came next.

That night, as he lay in bed, his body exhausted but his mind at peace, he thought about his brother and the future he was determined to protect. He drifted into a deep sleep, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges and new opportunities to set things right.