Chapter 14: The First Battle

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The Cloud Recesses were no longer the serene haven Wei Wuxian had first known. The tranquil air was now thick with the clang of swords, the hum of talismans, and the low murmurs of urgent conversations. Disciples and leaders alike were preparing for what seemed inevitable: war.

Lan Wangji was at the forefront of these preparations. His calm demeanor and unwavering focus inspired confidence in the disciples who looked to him for guidance. He spent countless hours strategizing with Lan Xichen and other sect leaders, pouring over maps and intelligence reports, crafting battle plans that could counter the growing threat of the dark cultivators.

Wei Wuxian watched Lan Wangji with a mixture of admiration and concern. He had never seen Lan Wangji so relentless, so consumed by the weight of his responsibilities. There was a quiet determination in his every action, a fierce resolve to protect his clan and allies at all costs.

**The Call to Arms**

It wasn’t long before the first call to arms was sounded. Reports came in of a rogue sect attacking a small village on the outskirts of Lan territory, leaving devastation in their wake. Lan Wangji immediately rallied a group of skilled disciples, including Wei Wuxian, to respond.

“We must move swiftly,” Lan Wangji said, his voice steady as he addressed the assembled disciples. “Our objective is to drive out the invaders and protect the villagers. Stay focused, stay together, and do not act recklessly.”

Wei Wuxian stood among the group, gripping his sword tightly. He felt a rush of adrenaline mixed with a flicker of fear — this would be his first real battle. But as he looked at Lan Wangji, calm and resolute, he felt a surge of confidence. Lan Wangji had always been there to guide him, and now, in the face of danger, Wei Wuxian knew he would not falter.

The group set out at dawn, their journey marked by an uneasy silence. As they approached the village, the smell of smoke filled the air, and Wei Wuxian could see the faint glow of flames in the distance. His heart pounded in his chest as they drew nearer, the sounds of battle growing louder with each step.

**The Battle Begins**

As they reached the outskirts of the village, they were met with chaos. Dark cultivators, clad in ragged armor and wielding cursed weapons, clashed with the villagers and a handful of defenders who were struggling to hold their ground. Lan Wangji quickly assessed the situation, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene.

“Form a defensive line,” Lan Wangji ordered, his voice cutting through the din. “Protect the villagers and drive the enemy back.”

Wei Wuxian moved swiftly, his sword flashing as he joined the fray. The clash of steel rang in his ears, and he felt the vibrations of each blow reverberate through his arms. He moved with agility and precision, every lesson and drill ingrained in his muscles guiding his movements. His talismans flew from his fingers, exploding in bursts of light that disoriented the dark cultivators and gave his allies the upper hand.

Lan Wangji was a force to be reckoned with. His guqin, Wangji, emitted powerful notes that reverberated through the battlefield, disrupting the enemy’s spiritual energy and leaving them vulnerable. He fought with a grace and efficiency that was awe-inspiring, his every move calculated and precise.

Wei Wuxian stole glances at Lan Wangji as he fought, drawing strength from his unwavering presence. But the battle was fierce, and the dark cultivators were relentless. Wei Wuxian found himself surrounded at one point, four enemies closing in on him with malicious intent. He could feel his heart racing, but he refused to back down.

“Come on!” Wei Wuxian shouted, his voice defiant as he parried a strike and countered with a well-placed kick. He ducked under another attack, spinning around to slash at the legs of the nearest enemy. His movements were quick and unpredictable, and soon he had created enough space to launch a series of talismans that sent the dark cultivators stumbling back, their weapons clattering to the ground.

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