The Jade Emperor's Blessing...(Yù Huáng de Zhù Fú)

Eleven

Despite their efforts, the passage was blocked with heavy rocks that could not be moved from the inside. They were trapped, with no immediate way out.

"We're still stuck," Wei Ying said, frustration evident in his voice. "We'll have to go back and wait for help."

Lan Zhan nodded, though his expression remained calm. "We'll make it through this."

They returned to the cave, gathering small branches and twigs to create a fire. The small flame flickered, providing some warmth and light in the dark, damp cave. They sat close to each other, Lan Zhan with his wounded leg and Wei Ying trying to keep warm.

Suddenly, Wei Ying began to shiver uncontrollably. His first heat had chosen that moment to come, releasing an overwhelming scent of lotus flowers and wine into the air.

Lan Zhan's eyes widened as he recognized the scent. His own alpha instincts kicked in, releasing his pheromones of sandalwood and vanilla to soothe and coax Wei Ying.

Wei Ying's eyes met Lan Zhan's, realization dawning on him. Lan Zhan was his alpha, his mate. His heart raced, and despite the pain and exhaustion, he felt a deep connection and longing.

Lan Zhan moved closer, his presence comforting and strong. "Wei Ying," he whispered, his voice gentle yet commanding.

Wei Ying responded to the call, his body trembling but not from fear. He leaned into Lan Zhan, his need and trust in his alpha evident.

Lan Zhan wrapped his arms around Wei Ying, pulling him close. "I'll take care of you," he promised, his voice filled with resolve.

Over the next four days, they shared an intimate bond, their connection deepening as Wei Ying's heat progressed. Lan Zhan tended to Wei Ying with tenderness and care, despite his own injuries. Their pheromones intertwined, creating a cocoon of comfort and belonging.

*******
On the fifth day, as Wei Ying's heat subsided, they were exhausted but content. Lan Zhan held Wei Ying close, his protective instincts still strong.

Just then, they heard voices and the sound of rocks being moved. "Over here!" Jiang Cheng's voice called out.

Rescue had arrived. Jiang Cheng and the other disciples worked tirelessly to clear the passage, finally breaking through to the cave. They found Lan Zhan conscious but weakened, his leg still injured, and Wei Ying unconscious in his arms.

"Wei Wuxian!" Jiang Cheng shouted, rushing to their side.

"Lan Zhan, are you okay?"

Lan Zhan nodded weakly. "We're fine, but Wei Ying needs help."

The disciples quickly carried Wei Ying out, Jiang Cheng supporting Lan Zhan. Despite the ordeal, there was a sense of relief and gratitude among them.

Back in the safety of the camp, they tended to their injuries. Wei Ying slowly regained consciousness, his eyes fluttering open to see Lan Zhan by his side.

"Lan Zhan," he murmured, a faint smile on his lips.

Lan Zhan squeezed his hand gently. "You're safe now."

Jiang Cheng watched from a distance, his concern for his brother evident. "Wei Wuxian, you reckless idiot," he muttered, but there was a hint of relief in his voice.

Wei Ying smile, "I miss you too Cheng Cheng and he fell unconscious again.

When Wei Ying finally regained consciousness, he found himself in his room at Lotus Pier. The familiar surroundings brought a sense of comfort, but there was an underlying ache that he couldn't ignore. He turned his head slightly, expecting to see Lan Zhan, but the room was empty.