Lotus Serenade || Mo Dao Zu Shi x Reader

| 十二 |

──❝The dawn of a fresh beginning❞──

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〖 Cloud Recesses 〗

Nestled deep within the cradle of mountains, far removed from the bustling city of Gusu and Caiyi Town, lay the ethereal abode of the Cloud Recesses. Its grounds sprawled with a picturesque array of meticulously tended gardens, elegant pavilions, and meandering rivers. A perpetual shroud of mist enfolded the area, as though it were an ethereal ocean of clouds descending upon the mortal realm. At the foot of the staircase ascending toward the Cloud Recesses, [Y/n] stood, enveloped in an aura of tranquility and reverence that hung thick in the air. Carved from polished stone, the stairs wound their way steadily upwards, vanishing into the swirling mist that veiled the lofty realms of the Gusu Lan Clan's sanctuary. With each step taken, the hushed whisper of the wind carried the distant melody of wind chimes, further embroidering the atmosphere with an otherworldly charm. Each ascent felt akin to a reverent ritual, a deliberate procession toward a haven steeped in serenity and enlightenment. The journey unfolded as a solemn pilgrimage, with each footfall an intentional stride toward the sanctuary of wisdom that awaited atop the staircase's ascendant path.

At last, [Y/n] ascended to the apex, finding herself face-to-face with a figure familiar to her heart: Lan Xichen, the esteemed leader of the Gusu Lan Clan. Towering and slender, Lan Xichen possessed a serene countenance, his eyes akin to tranquil pools, deep and gentle. Clad in the pristine robes adorned with the distinctive hair ribbon of the Gusu Lan Clan, his waist adorned by Liebing and Shuoyue, his presence exuded an aura both comforting and profoundly reverent. With a countenance graced by a kind, genteel smile, Lan Xichen offered a graceful bow in greeting, his gaze emanating a fusion of warmth and sagacity. "Welcome to the Cloud Recesses; I've anticipated your arrival, Lady [Y/n]," his voice, akin to the soothing caress of a summer breeze, tenderly resonated. [Y/n], engulfed in a blend of respect and admiration for the venerable clan leader, reciprocated with a bow, her arms extended in front of her. "I am deeply honored to stand here, Lan Xichen. Your generosity in granting me this opportunity is beyond measure," she expressed, her voice resonating with a harmonious blend of gratitude and fervor. Her words floated forth like a serene melody, carrying a tranquil cadence that masked a quiver of nerves threading through each syllable, a subtle tremor betraying the calm façade.

Lan Xichen's smile blossomed, a subtle widening that spoke volumes. "Please, accompany me, [Y/n]. I'll show you around." They moved in tandem, navigating the Cloud Recesses, where the gentle susurration of bamboo leaves danced with the hushed cadence of their steps. Amidst the serene gardens and meandering trails, Lan Xichen unveiled tales of the Gusu Lan Clan's legacy and customs, his voice a tapestry weaving together the threads of tradition and profound respect for their ancestry. Strolling alongside a flourishing bush, [Y/n]'s fingers delicately traced the flowers, her touch so tender that not a single petal was disturbed. "Is something troubling you, [Y/n]?" Xichen inquired, noting a sense of unease despite her serene countenance. Though her expression seemed tranquil, Xichen's perceptive gaze picked up on the subtle hints of disquietude. [Y/n] withdrew her hand from the bush, her brows knitting together as she shook her head before responding softly, "Thank you for the herbs you arranged for my brother." Xichen was taken aback, realizing that her thoughts revolved around her brother's well-being. "Don't fret, the herbs I arranged from Lan Qiren are renowned for their healing properties," he assured her. [Y/n] nodded, the weight lifting of her thoughts evident, but Xichen's comforting words seemed to offer some solace. "I believe you'll find solace here," Xichen added, his voice carrying a comforting reassurance.