The Hua Sect | XianWang

Chapter 21. 菊苣

Lan Zhan ventured into the tranquil sanctuary, a sacred space where their two magnificent dragons, Ne Zhan and Ne Ying, resided alongside a graceful female fairy. The air in the sanctuary hummed with an otherworldly energy, imbued with the presence of ancient beings.

As he approached, the dragons lifted their heads, their scales shimmering with fiery hues as they acknowledged his arrival. Ne Zhan, with eyes as deep as the ocean, greeted him with a rumble that resonated within Lan Zhan's core. Ne Ying, her slender form adorned with iridescent wings, leapt gracefully from her perch, her serene voice echoing through the sanctuary.

"Lan Zhan," Ne Ying's voice carried a melody that twinkled like a thousand wind chimes, "we sensed your presence and are glad you have come."

Lan Zhan inclined his head, deeply respectful of their majestic presence. "I am honored to be here with both of you and our esteemed fairy companion," he spoke in a tone of reverence. "I come seeking guidance and insight."

Ne Zhan, his voice resonating like a rolling thunder, spoke next. "We have observed the struggles and triumphs you and Wei Ying have faced together," he boomed. "What questions lie heavy on your heart today?"

Lan Zhan found solace in their wisdom, his gaze shifting between the dragons and the fairy with a mix of trust and inquiry. "Our journey continues to deepen, and with it, our responsibilities grow," he confided. "I seek the balance between duty and personal growth. How can I serve both Wei Ying and our people while nurturing my own spiritual path?"

The fairy, her voice gentle like the trickling of a brook, stepped forward. "Lan Zhan, we understand the weight that rests upon your shoulders," she said, her wings fluttering delicately. "To serve your partner and your people, you must first nurture your own soul. Find moments of solitude, where you can meditate and reflect on your own needs, for only by replenishing your own spirit can you continue to uplift others."

Lan Zhan absorbed her words, his eyes shimmering with gratitude. "Thank you for this guidance," he expressed, his voice filled with sincerity. "I shall seek those moments of solitude, finding strength in the stillness of my own heart."

Ne Ying, her voice a gentle undertone, added, "Remember, Lan Zhan, that self-care is not selfishness but an act of love for yourself and those who rely on you. By caring for your own well-being, you can bring greater light and compassion to your role as a leader."

Lan Zhan bowed respectfully to the dragons and the fairy, his gratitude reverberating in the air. "Your wisdom and guidance are treasured." he said. 

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden hue across the horizon, the world settled into a tranquil stillness. The evening breeze slowly brushed against Lan Zhan as he walked into the house.

Lan Zhan returned home, ready to find solace and joy in the familiar territory of his kitchen. As he slipped on his apron, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment knowing that his family would soon join him for a delicious meal.

With a serene focus, Lan Zhan began to prepare the ingredients, his movements imbued with the grace and precision that had become his trademark. The rhythmic sound of chopping and the gentle sizzle of food meeting the hot pan created a soothing melody, filling the kitchen with a lighthearted ambiance.

One by one, Lan Zhan's family members trickled into the kitchen, their presence bringing a sense of warmth and anticipation. Wei Ying, his sons Wei Sizhui and Wei Jingyi, and his daughter Wei Li gathered around, eagerly awaiting the culinary offering that was about to unfold.

Together, they engaged in lighthearted banter and laughter, their spirits intertwined like the ingredients coming together in the dishes Lan Zhan prepared. Wei Ying playfully stole bites from his children, causing uproarious laughter to fill the air. Lan Zhan's eyes sparkled with affection, cherishing these simple moments of connection.