A Means to an End (WangXian)

Invasion

Reports came in quickly from Nie Mingjue.

The Wens were on the move.

They would arrive in the Cloud Recesses sooner than what was expected, but at least this time they could prepare properly.

The moment they had received the letter, Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren made final preparations, including gathering everyone for a meeting.

Everyone was silent as they looked at their sect leader and future sect leader. 

"Thank you for gathering in such a short time," Lan Qiren started. "We have received reports that an army from the Wen clan is approaching the Cloud Recesses."

There were gasps and quiet outbursts in the crowd. Some even began fearing what this would mean.

"We have already begun preparing for this invasion. Those of you who are unable to fight, we have a safe location for you to go within the back hills of the Cloud Recesses," Lan Xichen explained in a calm voice that helped sooth others worries. 

"Those of you able to fight, I will warn you that this could become a gruesome battle. Please make sure you are prepared," Lan Qiren added. "Everyone has been given a specific area to defend. Make sure to check where you are located and spend the rest of the day preparing for battle. Those who cannot fight, begin preparing to move into the back hills of the Cloud Recesses. There will be someone coming to each of the groups and ensuring everyone is accounted for before taking you back."

"The Wens will be here by morning. It is wise to act quickly and precisely. We will continue to give more updates as more information reaches us," Lan Xichen finished. 

Everyone in the Cloud Recesses heeded their words and went to the areas that were designated. Many began collecting their things, sharpening their swords, and other tasks related to the upcoming battle. No one took this nonchalantly. 

Wei Wuxian, who stood in the crowd, turned on his heels and began preparing himself.

His first order of business was to smother the Cloud Recesses with as many talismans and wards as possible. He had already done so to some extent, but it never hurt to be over prepared.

Wei Wuxian approached the many pristine and elegant buildings, placing the talismans on the walls. He put his hands together and said an incantation before sending his spiritual energy to activate the talisman. The talisman faded as it was activated.

He then put his hand up and ensured that not only was the talisman activated, but that it couldn't be detected very easily. He used his spiritual energy to mask it.

Then, Wei Wuxian moved on. He continued to do that to each of the buildings. The more significant ones, such as the library, treasury, and historical monuments, Wei Wuxian would spend more dedicated time to protecting them.

When he felt like he did all that he could for the buildings of the Cloud Recesses, he then turned to the back hills of the Cloud Recesses that is meant to be their evacuation point. He placed more talismans around the barrier that was already there as added protection.

Lastly, he added additional defensive and offensive talismans at the main barrier around the Cloud Recesses that would help prevent too many of the Wens from entering, at least for a while. With the amount of Wen soldiers approaching them, they will be able to break through the barrier at some point. Wei Wuxian is aware of that, but it does not mean he can't hold them back a little while longer.

Wei Wuxian slumped to the ground against a tree. He was completely exhausted. He had never utilized so much spiritual energy in one go to activate as many talismans that he did.