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

Fifteen

The early morning sun cast a serene light over the training grounds of Cloud Recesses. Wei Ying stood before the assembled group, his presence radiating a blend of authority and warmth.

The space was set with areas designated for martial arts practice and tables arranged for crafting and calligraphy.

Wei Ying began the day with rigorous physical exercises, guiding the group through precise movements and drills.

Lan Zhan watched with a proud, stoic expression as their children and nephews followed Wei Ying’s commands. Despite the strict atmosphere, there was a palpable sense of dedication and discipline in the air.

“Today’s training will be complemented by some creative tasks,” Wei Ying announced with a serious tone. “Prepare yourselves for a combination of physical and mental challenges.”

The training session included agility drills, tactical maneuvers, and sparring matches. Each participant focused intently on their performance, their movements sharp and controlled. The training was designed to push their limits while maintaining the solemnity expected in Cloud Recesses.

After the physical training, the group moved to the crafting and calligraphy tables. Wei Ying presented the materials: scrolls, brushes, ink, and various crafting supplies. His tone remained professional but carried an undercurrent of enthusiasm.

“We will now shift our focus to crafting,” Wei Ying said. “Create something that reflects your personal style and enhances your training.”

Participants selected their projects with seriousness. Some crafted specialized training tools, while others engaged in calligraphy. Wei Ying provided guidance on combining traditional techniques with innovative designs.

Lan Hua worked on a new training staff, while Lan Sizhui designed a set of personalized seals. Lan Jingyi and Lan Yu practiced calligraphy, focusing on perfecting their strokes. Lan Li, with quiet determination, worked on creating a decorative yet functional training tool.

To integrate the crafting with their training, Wei Ying introduced a practical challenge: participants had to demonstrate their creations in a controlled environment. The new training tools were tested in practice drills, and the calligraphy scrolls were used in strategic exercises.

The children and nephews showcased their work with a sense of pride and seriousness. Lan Zhan and Lan Xichen observed, providing feedback and noting the improvements in their creations.

As the day concluded, the group gathered for a formal reflection session. They reviewed their crafted items and discussed how their creations had impacted their training. The atmosphere remained solemn, with each participant speaking thoughtfully about their work and experiences.

Wei Ying acknowledged their efforts, praising their dedication and craftsmanship. The session ended with a quiet, respectful tea ceremony, where everyone reflected on the day’s activities.

Lan Zhan and Lan Xichen observed with satisfaction as their family engaged in meaningful and productive endeavors. Despite the strict rules and formalities, the day had been one of growth and connection, forging deeper bonds among them.

The grand hall of Cloud Recesses was adorned with vibrant flowers and intricate decorations, a rare sight in the otherwise solemn environment. The wedding of Lan Zhan and Wei Ying had brought a sense of joyous festivity to the usually restrained atmosphere.

As guests arrived, their faces lit up with smiles and laughter. The ceremony began with traditional rites and rituals, performed with great reverence and care. Lan Zhan and Wei Ying stood together, their expressions a mix of solemnity and happiness.