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

Eighteen

The Jade Emperor approached them, his gaze warm but filled with purpose. "I trust in your strength and resolve. Remember, the fate of many depends on the success of this mission. Proceed with caution and unity."

Wei Ying, feeling the weight of his pregnancy but determined as ever, straightened up.

The Jade Emperor's gaze softened as he regarded Wei Ying. "Your role will be crucial, Wu Si Zhe. Da Ai Zhe, and the others will need to retrieve the artifact and ensure its safety. Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, though not immortals, will assist with the mission under temporary powers that I will grant them. They will need your aid to traverse the realm safely."

Lan Zhan nodded solemnly, his protective instincts flaring. "We will ensure the artifact's safety and return it to its rightful place."

As the discussion concluded, Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng exchanged determined glances. "We're ready for this," Jiang Cheng said firmly, though there was a hint of concern in his eyes. "With your help, we'll make sure this mission succeeds."

"Very well," the Jade Emperor said, raising his hand. "Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, you will be granted temporary celestial powers to aid you in this mission. Da Ai Zhe, Wu Si Zhe, prepare for teleportation."

With a gentle wave, the Jade Emperor bestowed a shimmering light upon Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, enveloping them in celestial energy. Wei Ying, focusing his energy, began the teleportation process with Lan Zhan's assistance. The room filled with a soft glow as the group prepared to embark on their journey.

In a quiet moment before their departure, Lan Zhan pulled Wei Ying aside, his expression tender yet filled with concern. "You should stay behind, Wei Ying. It's dangerous, and you need to be careful with the baby."

Wei Ying took his husband's hand, looking up at him with a mix of love and determination. "I'm fine, Lan Zhan. I want to be part of this mission. Besides, I trust you to keep me safe."

Lan Zhan's resolve softened as he kissed Wei Ying's forehead. "Alright, but promise me you'll be careful."

"I promise," Wei Ying said with a reassuring smile. "Now, let's get this mission underway."

With the preparations complete, Lan Zhan, Wei Ying, Lan Xichen, and Jiang Cheng stood ready. Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, now imbued with temporary celestial powers, joined the group as they prepared to teleport to their destination.

The journey was fraught with challenges, but their combined skills and the temporary powers granted by the Jade Emperor ensured they were well-equipped to face whatever lay ahead. The mission to recover the stolen artifact was not just a test of their strength but a testament to their unity and dedication.

As they ventured into the unknown, each step brought them closer to their goal, and their bond as a team grew stronger. Despite the dangers, they moved forward with a shared sense of purpose, knowing that their success was crucial for the safety of the realms and their own futures.

---

The Shadow Realm was a realm of perpetual twilight, where the air was thick with an otherworldly mist and shadows lurked around every corner. The land seemed to stretch endlessly, with jagged terrain and shifting darkness that made navigation treacherous.

Lan Zhan, Wei Ying, Lan Xichen, Jiang Cheng, and their celestial guide Lianhua stood at the edge of a dark chasm, the entrance to the lair where the Celestial Heartstone was believed to be hidden. The chill in the air was palpable, and the oppressive atmosphere weighed heavily on them.

Lianhua, his ethereal presence glowing softly in the darkness, raised a hand and created a shimmering barrier of light to ward off the encroaching shadows. "Beyond this chasm lies the fortress where the Heartstone is kept. It will not be easy to retrieve."