Original Version (Stand By You)

Gifted?

Lan Huan, also known as Lan Xichen or Zewu Jun, the esteemed leader of the Gusu Lan Sect, had always shouldered the responsibilities of his position with grace and diligence. Yet, in recent times, his heart had been burdened with more than just the duties of leadership. His younger brother, Lan Zhan, lay recovering from a severe punishment, and in addition, he had taken on the care of little Wen Yuan, or A-Yuan, as they called him. The child's presence in the sect was a bittersweet reminder of the sacrifices and tragedies that had shaped their recent past.

Lan Xichen had developed a deep affection for A-Yuan. The boy's innocent resilience and the way he tended to Lan Zhan with unwavering dedication touched him deeply. Today, it was Lan Xichen's turn to look after A-Yuan. He decided to take the boy to the Lan Sect's library pavilion, a place of knowledge and tranquility that he hoped would provide some comfort and distraction for the child.

The library pavilion was a sanctuary of silence, its walls lined with ancient texts and scrolls. Lan Xichen selected a few storybooks, knowing that A-Yuan enjoyed the tales of heroes and adventures. They settled in a quiet corner, A-Yuan's small form nestled comfortably beside him.

"Would you like me to read you a story, A-Yuan?" Lan Xichen asked gently.

A-Yuan nodded eagerly, his eyes bright with anticipation. Lan Xichen began to read, his voice a soothing cadence that filled the room. As he read, he occasionally glanced at A-Yuan, noting the way the boy's eyes widened at the exciting parts and softened at the tender moments. It was in these peaceful interludes that Lan Xichen found a brief respite from the heaviness of his duties.

Suddenly, A-Yuan's attention drifted from the book. He looked up, his expression thoughtful.

"Madam Lan," he said softly.

Lan Xichen's heart skipped a beat at the mention of his mother. He set the book aside and turned to A-Yuan, his curiosity piqued.

"What did you say, A-Yuan?"

The boy looked at him, his innocent eyes unwavering.

"Madam Lan," he repeated. "She misses you and Rich Gege."

Lan Xichen felt a chill run down his spine. How could A-Yuan, so young and unconnected to their family's past, speak of his mother, Madam Lan? His mind raced with possibilities, and a sense of awe mingled with his confusion.

"Madam Lan misses us?" Lan Xichen asked softly, his voice tinged with a mix of disbelief and hope.

A-Yuan nodded, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

"Yes, she told me. She misses both of you very much."

Lan Xichen's heart ached with a mixture of grief and longing. His mother had passed away when he and Lan Zhan were very young, leaving behind a legacy of love and sacrifice that had profoundly shaped their lives. Her presence was deeply ingrained in the ethos of the Lan Sect, her teachings and values continuing to guide them. To hear that she still thought of them, even in the afterlife, was both comforting and heart-wrenching.

"Did she say anything else?" Lan Xichen asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

A-Yuan tilted his head, considering the question.

"She said to be strong and to take care of each other."

Tears welled up in Lan Xichen's eyes. He reached out and gently stroked A-Yuan's hair, the simple gesture conveying more than words ever could.

"Thank you, A-Yuan," he said softly. "Thank you for telling me."

A-Yuan beamed, pleased to have brought some comfort to his beloved Zewu Jun. Lan Xichen sat back, his mind a swirl of emotions. Could it be that Wei Ying's presence in Jingshi had somehow opened a channel to the spirits of their loved ones? The thought was both comforting and overwhelming.